The next morning, Ethan woke up very sore, but as usual, he shook it off, showered, and got himself dressed for school. Looking in his closet, he found a long sleeved shirt that covered most of the forming bruises on his neck and arms. He was not sure why he still bothered covering them, as he had unfortunately learned long ago that no one cared what happened to in-valid kids. The shirt sufficiently covered everything though, save for the new blotch forming on the bottom of his chin. Sighing, he picked up his bag and walked out the door, following his usual path to school and passing the youkai's usual spot.

Slipping out if his normal resting spot on the branch of his favorite tree Yu stretches quickly, just enough to make sure he's awake, before racing off to the archway. [i]'It is a school day. I should be there to make sure he does not again think me a dream'[/i] He moves quickly arriving a good ten minutes before the youth usually passes beneath him, and takes the chance to get cleaned up and finish stretching. Once Ethan come into sight however he stills completely. The youth doesn't even spare him a glance and the youkai's sharp eyes catch something he doesn't like.

Dropping down off the arch he watches the youth as he walks. Moving in close so he can walk beside Ethan his eyes narrow at the sight of fresh injuries. He lets out faint little noises, trying to get the boy to stop or something but instead the youth just smiles slightly and keeps walking. With a little kitty sneeze Yu races on ahead a few steps, hopping up on to the broken end of the wall he normally passes through on his way to school. Once Ethan is close enough Yu reach's out, pressing his paws gently to a spot on the boy's shoulder, hoping there is no wound under there. Once he has the youth's attention he leans forward and gently licks the spot on his chin. [i]'I may not be able to speak now, too risky, but I can at least let him know I feel for him'[/i] His eyes are shiny and he follows the light up with a nuzzle to the boy's cheek.

Once they reached a rather secluded part of the journey, Ethan grinned at Yu's attentions and turned to him. “Call me a skeptic, but I was still not one-hundred percent sure I'd see you again. Thanks for proving me wrong,” he said softly. “Sorry for not speaking sooner. I just didn't want someone to think I was crazy for talking to a cat. Or to accidentally expose you by someone hearing you talk back. How are you?”

Yu sniffs the air carefully, listening to it closely least it speak of danger, but once he has the all clear he presses close to the human, rubbing the length of his body against him while he speaks. “I am well Ethan, but it seems you are not so much.” Propping himself up on to his back legs he sniffs at the youth, the pools of blood under his skin detectable to the feline's delicate nose. “I do not mind that you did not speak, and I am glad you think enough of me to look out for me like that. . .” His voice is soft and he continues lavishing the human in feline affection. Then with a chuckle he adds, “I would gladly prove you wrong every time if it will bring a smile to your face.”

Ethan bit his lip slightly as his new friend noticed the bruises, but he preferred to take it in stride, and it was not like the cat youkai could protect him from his own parents. He could not help but smile cutely at Yu's comment about bringing a smile to his face.

“You're very sweet, I don't know if I'll ever get used to seeing a cat speak,” the teen commented, chuckling slightly. “And I'm fine. Its just a few scrapes. I'm used to them.”

Yu glares in the direction of Ethan's home. “Sire's and dams should never harm their young. Not ever.” His voice is a little thicker than usual. However a moment later he goes back to snuggling against the youth. “I would shift so you do not have to, but I think that would take up too much of your time. I have heard from your fellow students that you can be late to this school, and being late is bad.” He purrs loudly, hopping up on a nearby trashcan so he can reach Ethan's face once more. Licking the wound he can see gently once more he pours some of his magic into it, healing it enough that it fades from view. His purr grows even deeper as he rubs his face against the spot, using the scent glands in the corners of his eyes to mark the youth. [i]'I feel really possessive around him. . .'[/i] he muses. “That should feel better. . .” He murmurs softly.

Ethan bit his lip; he enjoyed the attention and affection, perhaps a little more than he strictly should have, and the healing magic felt like a warm blanket being placed over his wound. He almost wished he could remove his shirt and let Yu heal all of the wounds. But he did not want the youkai to worry over him.

“I never said it was my parents who did this to me,” he answered. “How did you know?”

The youkai places once last lick to the boys cheek before sitting back to rub his face a bit. Ethan's scent is now on his fur and almost like a dog, he feels like spreading it around. “It was easy to tell. I have watched you for quite some time. If you had been attacked between your home, and the arch, the wind would have told me about it. As it is, the only ones who can make marks like the ones I have seen, are your parents, as I have seen the bruises since I first saw you, and at the time your sibling's fists were too small to make the marks.” Finishes with his face rubbing Yu drops his paw and wraps his tail around all of them. After a moment he hops down and settles against the youth's leg, purring. “You do not deserve all this hurt. No one does. . .” Rubbing his face all over Ethan's knee he tugs gently on the youth's pant leg, urging him to continue his journey, least he be late and get in trouble.

Ethan listened curiously. “Um, how long have you been watching me?” he asked. But despite the mild trepidation he felt, he appreciated the care Yu seemed to show for him. “And some would argue I did deserve it last night,” he pointed out as he began walking again. “My parents found out that I cut school early. I had my reasons, but still.”

Yu hops a little, dancing about as Ethan gets moving. He keeps his voice low despite his apparent excitement as he responds. “I have been here eight years now, and noticed you back then. I have not been actively watching you that long, but my eyes do not miss much, including how you and your sibling seem to get along.” He purrs, hopping on a few trash bins before asking, “Reprimands should not be violent, however, how does one cut a school? They seem to be made of a hard substance and I do not think a cut made by a human would do much damage. . .” He does not mention that his claws could cut the school easily, as it really has no bearing here.

Ethan laughed for a moment. “If you've been watching us so long, how come you don't know simple slang? It just means I skipped class. Specifically, I skipped my last class and left school early when I wasn't supposed to. I have Writing and Literature last period, and my teacher hates me. She tries to humiliate me in front of the class, and has given me a 65 on every paper I've ever turned in. It's obvious she just reads my name and slaps a grade on. It's odd, like so many people are just programmed to hate in-valids... Anyway, I have been skipping the class because I'm not learning anything, and I would rather spend the time doing other things rather than being humiliated.”

Yu purrs happily at having learned a new thing, even laughing along with the youth as he finds amusement in Yu's lack of knowledge of what obviously a common term. However his laughter dies as he goes on to speak of the teacher hating him. “I suppose not. A teacher should care for their student if they expect them to learn anything.” He falls completely silent as the move out on to the street. He employs a little magic do deflect stares, a useful trick he learned from an owl youkai once, so that he can walk beside the youth as a dog would without too many people getting overly curious.

Once they reach the school Yu rubs up against Ethan one last time before hopping up on to the wall that runs around the campus. He looks down at the youth as he waves, returning the gesture with a little cooing noise in the back of his throat. Once Ethan is on his way again Yu watches him until he vanishes into the school building, then with a yawn he scampers off to get something to eat. [i]'I will wait for him by the gate on the wall later. In case he skips a class again, I should make sure to get there early'[/i]

[i]No one cares for me... well, that's not true. Adam does, in his own way. And there are a few others. But most people think I'm scum just because of minor differences in my genetic code,[/i] Ethan had thought. But he had stayed silent to avoid sounding needlessly depressing. He had to admit, he enjoyed the youkai's company, and his touch.

The day went by slowly, as Ethan found himself largely distracted by thoughts of Yu. He had so much curiosity about his life, about everything he knew from living so long, but he did not know where to start asking. On top of that, he enjoyed the company, and he seemed to have this warm fuzzy feeling whenever he thought of him. It was odd.

As usual, he cut the writing class early, for he decided that his parents would probably find some reason to hit him either way, so there was not much point in trying to avoid it by following their wishes. After all, he would not be able to get into college anyway, so why bother humiliating himself by staying in a useless class?

As usual, he sneaked out of a back door and headed off the grounds, only to notice Yu perched on top of the schoolyard fence. “Here already?” he inquired, as he scratched the cat behind his ear on impulse.

Yu lounges about on the wall, enjoying the early afternoon heat on his belly, only rolling over when he notices movement from the direction of the school. His ears perk up and he hops down to the fence as Ethan approaches, waiting with bright eyes and a slowly swaying tail. He purrs loudly as Ethan scratches a spot behind his ears, curling his head around so he can lick the human's wrist. He doesn't respond aloud but nods with his own little cat grin to the question.

Ethan smiled at the cat licking his wrist. Normally, he disliked it when animals licked him, but with Yu, he realized he did not terribly mind. “I have no idea what we should do. I've only got two hours until I go to work. Want to just talk somewhere? Maybe find some food?”

Purring louder Yu tugs on Ethan's sleeve. Once he's sure the boy will follow be begins leading the way to the hot dog vendor in the park. The trip isn't long and when they get there he runs ahead. Pawing at the vendor he smiles his can smile as the old man looks down at him with a grin of his own. “Well little friend, did not expect to see you so soon. What are you. . .?” His eyes follow Yu as he races back to Ethan, tugging on the boy's pant leg to urge him forward. “Oh, you have a friend today! How nice. Here, let me fix you up something to eat, no charge as always.” Yu purrs and settle on to a bench, pawing the spot beside him as if to say 'sit with me!' to the youth.

Ethan grinned, thanked the man, and took his food before sitting down next to Yu. He was rather afraid to speak freely in front of the vendor, as he was sure that he just thought of the youkai as a normal stray cat.

Sensing the boy's discomfort the vendor moves off with his cart to the other end of the park. A few families pass by on their way to somewhere or another and soon the group is quite busy with orders and keeping the children from running off. “He is a nice man. I think he knows, at least on some level, that I am not a normal cat, but he never says anything about it. Just talks to me like you saw.” His voice is soft, his lips barely moving and he settles into to eat beside his new human friend. “I feel almost like I am at my old role around him. I check his house every few days to make sure the small rodents do not return.”

“The small rodents? You really chase rats?” Ethan whispered, rather shocked by the revelation, even though he was already talking to a sentient cat. “I mean, I don't mean anything by it. It's just... I'm still taking all of this in, you know?”

He nods. “Rats, mice, the occasional shrew. I am not partial to raw meat like some of my kind, but it is food and he is kind to me. It is the least I can do.” He quickly finishes his hot dog. Looking around he whispers, “Since you have hands, perhaps we could head to a slightly quieter place? I know a grassy patch that no one really visits, and the winds tell me it is free at the moment.”

Ethan nodded and stood up, grabbing his bag and his food along with him. “Lead the way, my friend,” he whispered.

Licking his paws quickly Yu nods and hops of the bench, curling around it and heading away from the noisy families. [i]'He will likely not want to look like he is following a cat, so we will take the back way'[/i] The alley just off the park is rather clean, considering and as he slips past the second set of trash cans he looks back at Ethan and whispers, “This building on the left is a home for orphans, and they get special tokens for keeping the area clean.” He's sure that such things were not even on the youth's mind, but none the less he felt compelled to turn and talk to him every now and again.

Once out of the alley he heads left past the orphanage, peeking in through the iron bars at the children hard at work on some wood working project or another. Skating pass he takes them two blocks down, past a few low rent houses, and into an abandoned part of the city. Most of the city is built up, shiny and tall, on the bones of the old city, but certain parts like this one still remain, a ghost town of sorts, right here in the middle of the city. He makes sure to keep to the shadows best he can on the trip, looking back every now and again when he is out of sight of others to make sure Ethan can still see him.

Once in the abandoned part of the city however he pauses for a long moment, his nose up, the wind moving past his whiskers making them twitch. With a soft sigh he looks back at Ethan and nods. “As usual, no one here. I think I spend so much time in this place it is unsettling to some, and worthless to others.” Slipping into the ghost town he slips and slinks between buildings, moving more swiftly now that he does not have to keep out of sight. It doesn't take long before he arrives at the spot and with a purr he bounds out on to the grass. After a few spirited bounds he does a front roll. Mid roll he seems to explode in a flurry of robes and with a faint thud lands on his back, a light smile on his lips.

The area is fairly small, and enclosed mostly on all sides by three buildings and a dilapidated fence. He figures it must have been a yard at one point, but now the flowery patch is little more than a small patch of color in a world of gray and silver. Rolling on to his stomach, his feline ears and tail showing, he looks to the human with the smile still on his lips. His tail coils this way and that while his ears lock on to the youth and follow him. “This is the nearest secluded patch of green to the park. There are a few others in the city, and if you go in the right direction there is a wide open field just outside the city, but I thought this best.”

Ethan followed through Yu through streets and alleyways to the abandoned city. He was casually familiar with the area, though obviously not to the degree that the youkai was, and enjoyed the snippets of information that his friend provided.

“Probably,” Ethan replied. “I have work in just over an hour. Can't have you whisking me off just anywhere.” He grinned as he sat down in the grass and ate another bite of his hot dog.

After a few minutes of silence, he looked up to his companion in his human form. “I honestly can't think of anything to say,” he admitted, rather embarrassed. “I've never been a wonderful conversationalist, and to someone who is... as wise and ancient as you, what can I possibly say that would be even remotely interesting?”

Stretching out he murmurs casually, “I can get from here to the next town in the blink of an eye, so if I whisked you anywhere I would be sure to get you back on time. . .” He sighs, rolling about a bit in the silence, enjoying the warm sun. [i]'Work. . . .Children work now again, yes. They use to, long ago, then they stopped, only school, now again there are jobs for youth. He is not a child any more however, so not so surprising'[/i] He purrs and sits up, stretching his arms out to the sides as he turns his face tot he sun.

As the silence stretches on Yu rises, pawing at the grass with his toes, little threads of his magic snaking out to nourish the grass and flowers. When at last the human speaks up Yu's purrs deepen and he looks back at the boy with a bright smile. Plopping down on the grass he lays his head on Ethan's thigh so he's looking up at the young man and offers an even wider smile. “It is nice to simply be around someone so openly for me, however if you seek conversation, how about you tell me of what you like to do? What is it you do in those places I may not follow that makes you smile? I like your smile, and I would like to learn how see it more.” His voice is totally honest, despite how cheesy the lines sound.

“Well, I play the piano, when I can get away with it. I've been taking lessons for years behind my parents' backs, in return for fixing my teacher’s computer and tutoring her daughter,  Sometimes I read, or write stories, or just spend time online with my laptop. The anonymity is quite nice. And I'm part of a “hacker space,” that builds robots and works on other projects. I get to learn stuff, not that I'll ever be allowed to really use it. But, more importantly, no one there cares that I'm an in-valid. I'm just their friend, one of the guys. I just do whatever makes me happy at the time, and being treated like I'm normal happens to make me happy,” Ethan answered honestly, absentmindedly scratching behind Yu's ears. The physical contact should have been odd and unfamiliar for him, but something about the youkai made it feel so natural. Perhaps it was his cat-like nature, or perhaps Ethan just felt like he could be honest around him.

Yu listens happily, a deep purr in his chest only growing louder as Ethan begins scratching behind his ears. A part of him had been a little worried about moving in so close like this. He's seen abused children before who hate physical contact, but as his smile widens and the youth speaks he feels quite happy he decided to do so. In a soft, gentle voice he replies, “So you are like me. You like doing things that let you be yourself. . .” He turns his head to the side slightly and nuzzles his face into Ethan's side idly, like he would if he were in his animal form.

He hums softly, his purr not affecting his voice at all as he begins speaking again. “I never understood this in-valid nonsense. Human is human, and those who are altered, the only difference I find is they smell a little different, and seem born with more arrogance than compassion. For the most part. I know a few alters who are nice, in their own ways.” His tail comes up to coil around Ethan's nearest arm, the tip rubbing gently against the youth's shoulder as he takes in the scent of the youth. The faint smell of blood however begins coming to the fore of his mind and he wonders just how badly the little one is hurt.

“It's genetic. Valids are built stronger, faster, smarter, with better immune systems, and less propensity to disease. In short, they are improved humans. They have a right to their arrogance. They’re better than people like me,” Ethan pointed out, as if his self-deprecation were an obvious fact of the universe. As he spoke, the youth began to scoot away from Yu, clearly uncomfortable, and embarrassed at how uncomfortable he was.

“No one human is better than another, unless if a human is evil, then they are less than human. No matter the skills, talents, intelligence, or health. Even the sickest man is no less than than the strongest.” He murmurs in reply, his ears perking up as Ethan scoots back. Yu does not chase after him, instead he rolls onto his stomach and pushes himself up so he's sitting on his lower legs, his hands still on the ground. His tail curls curiously back and forth and he blinks slowly. “Is something wrong? You seem. . .Frightened of me. . .” His tail and ears droop and he looks at the youth with sad eyes.

“I wish that were true, but in this world, it's simply not,” Ethan replied sadly, daring to meet the youkai's eyes. “A human's worth is determined by his or her genetic capabilities, which encompasses health, and physical and mental ability. That's why it's acceptable for those guys to beat me up, because I'm worthless to society,” the teenager replied, as he looked away sadly.

“As far as why I moved away, I don't mean to be rude. It's just, I was enjoying the physical contact a lot, and I'm afraid of feeling inappropriate emotions towards you. It's my fault. I'm unaccustomed to the touch, and I can't adequately control the results.”

[i]'Well that is foolish'[/i] he thinks about the first part. [i]'No one is more than another. . . .'[/i] For the rest he blinks slowly, trying to fathom the meaning. He sniffs slightly towards the human, perking up his ears. “Your response was. . .Positive, or so it seems and. . .I do not find reacting positive, rude. . .I am not. . . .I do not get offended by such things. In fact, I do not find anything really offensive.” He tilts his head this way and that. “Inappropriate. . . .That is odd. You feel towards me how you feel, and how you feel is your own right. And as it is, at least as far as your physical reactions, I am actually honored you feel kindly towards me. . .”

He blinks slowly. “Forgive me, I ramble. In short I say I enjoy being responded to positively, I take no offense, and however you feel, as long as you hate me, is not something I will resent.” Like a curious feline he scoots in a little closer, reaching out a hand like a cat would a paw, and presses it gently to Ethan's shoulder. “I am not a human Ethan, and you need not mind me as you would a human. I am as much cat as I am person, and I will seek out attention as any cat would. If. . .If it bothers you, I will stop, but if it you you fearing to bother me, you need not worry. You have not bothered me.” He smiles warmly. “In fact I was quite happy to be scratched behind the ears. . .” He smiles innocently and paws gently at the human's shoulder.

Still almost fearful, the young human nodded and scooted back closer to the youkai. After a questioning look, wordlessly asking for approval, he leaned his head against the creature's chest contentedly.

“I appreciate the ability to be close to someone,” he commented. “It's not a luxury I have had often.But I probably sound pathetic saying that aloud.”

Yu can tell the human is reluctant, however he sits still and lets Ethan come to him, a faint smile on his lips. His smile widens and his eyes warm as the youth shoots him a questioning look and without a word he nods slowly. He shifts carefully as the human settles against him so that they are both comfortable, hopefully, and as soon as he hears Ethan's words the purr returns to his chest. “I will be here, as you need me Ethan. I feel. . . .Drawn to you, and as such, I will do my best to never be far away. . .” He tells no lie when he says he feels drawn to the youth, though before he passed it off as a simple curiosity. However now he realizes it may be something much different. “You are not pathetic. . .” he adds on softly, his fingers coming up to pet the boy's hair gently, careful to pay attention least the motion be more unpleasant than soothing.

Ethan could not help but feel rather lightheaded at the youkai's kind words and nuzzled in closer to him. Logically, he knew it was arguably unwise to trust someone so completely, but he could not help but enjoy the feeling of being loved and protected. Though he tensed slightly at the touch to his hair, he quickly relaxed into it and looked up into the cat-youkai's face.

“That's very sweet of you, but you don't need to alter your life for me. Just being around you on occasion would be enough,” he replied calmly. [i]I wonder if he would enjoy belly rubs like a cat...?[/i] the youth wondered, and decided to test the question. Taking his right hand, he began to softly rub Yu's belly, looking up at his face to see if he was enjoying the touch.

His smile remains firmly in place as the youth snuggles in closer, enjoying the little cuddle session so fully, or so it would seem. He almost stops his petting when the boy tenses but as he relaxes quickly, he continues stroking those soft locks. Yu looks back at the young man, a very fond expression on his face, and he can feel his own enjoyment at the intimacy rising as well. He purr redoubles to express this feeling. His feline slits widen ever so slightly within their golden prisons as the shadow from his own head blocks some of the sun's rays and he murmurs a reply softly.

“I alter my life as it suits me, and as of now what suits me best is to be around you as much and as often as possible. I am. . . Happiest around you. I am most comfortable in your presence, and I feel a strong desire to stay around you.” His eyelids droop slightly and he lick his lips lazily as the human begins rubbing his belly. The fingers in Ethan's hair move more slowly, slipping from petting to a faint pleasant scratching along the scalp. “Of course if you find you tire of me, I will of course leave you be. I do not seek to be a pest. . .” His voice sounds a little thick, the purr so deep it begins affecting his voice.

“You could never be a pest. I just don't want to be a problem,” Ethan muttered. He continued his ministrations as he reveled in the feel of his own long hair being played with. It was an enjoyable experience, simply exchanging such simple pleasures with a friend. Modern society so easily frowned on physical contact. It was easy to forget how healing it could be. His left hand meandered its way across Yu's back, catching his black and silver hair. “This is the most content I've been in a long time. Even in my lessons and activities, the enjoyment of the activity is sometimes mitigated by frustration with the work. There's none of that here. No expectations. I wish I didn't have to leave.”

He blinks slowly a few times, listening to the human speak with a dreamy smile and gentle eyes. “I am glad you think me not a pest. . .” he murmurs softly, likewise enjoying the contentment one feels at simple contact with another. His hears flip backwards as he feels movement against his back, however he simply continues to purr happily at the new addition of pleasantness as he feels fingers touching his own hair. He feels the urge to return the touch with yet more caresses to the boy, however recalling that some need time to get use to things before moving forward his free hand remains settled on his knee.

When Ethan speaks again Yu tilts his head curiously to the side. The boy's words seem to strike a nerve in him and while he does not stop running his nails gently along the youth's scalp his purring becomes a little quieter. [i]'I believe this may be one of those phrases that does not carry the full weight of meaning behind it as it would for one of my kind. . .'[/i] For one of his own to say something like that would be the equivalent of one confessing romantic attraction, possibly love, for the recipient by the speaker. To test the youth's meaning he replies softly, “I am glad you are so content with me. You can stay as long as you like. . .” He's sure that the boy did not mean the words as a youkai, but it never hurts to check. He is quite fond of the youth now, and with the draw he feels towards him he would not question if the boy felt the same thing and did not recognize it.

Ethan grimaced slightly, “But I can't, at least not right now. I have to start heading to work soon,” he admitted, still continuing his ministrations as the youkai seemed to enjoy them.

By his tone and his eyes it is easy to see that the youth did not mean it the youkai way, so Yu sets it aside for now and instead turns his attention to what he smelled earlier. “Ethan, would it be easier to do your work if I healed your wounds?” His tone is quite innocent, as if it's the most normal thing in the world to say at this moment.

"I work in the stockroom of a large store. There's lots of lifting involved, but I'm used to doing it with these kinds of wounds. I don't need special treatment. Besides, wouldn't it look odd to my parents and my brother if suddenly all my wounds were healed?" the youth asked, looking into the youkai's eyes.

Yu's free hand finally snakes out, carefully brushing over Ethan's shoulder and chest, as if feeling out the wounds. He speaks softly, watching his hand move. “I do not think you should have to suffer, no matter what others may think. . .And you always have these hidden, so unless they began inspecting your body daily, they should not notice. . .” He gazes down at Ethan. If you truly fear them finding out, I could simply heal them until the pain is gone, and leave the mark to fade naturally, however I feel sad leaving any mark on you. . .” The fingers in Ethan's hair move forward a little and brush along the youth's forehead. “However, it is for you to decide. . .I only with to see you well. . .”

The young man winced as his new friend's fingers ran across the wounds. He had almost forgotten how painful they were when touched. “I'm only worried for you, my friend. I don't want you to be discovered just from helping me. That being said, you're right that no one is really inspecting my torso every day, and I don't want to make you sad. Could you heal the ones on my back and stomach but leave the marks on my arms and legs? No one should suspect anything then, unless they rip my shirt off or something,” Ethan responded, joking a bit at the end.

His lips lift for a moment revealing his fangs at the thought of someone ripping his new friend's shirt off but he settles quickly back into a smile as he gets ready to do as requested. He shifts gently away and very carefully begins removing Ethan's shirt. He goes slow, pausing or shifting with any sign on pain, but eventually he gets it off. With gentle hands he guides Ethan to lay on his stomach before tucking back most of his hair and going to work. He elects to stay in his humanoid form as to heal more quickly, not having to worry about scratching the youth with his feline tongue. [i]'He says he must to work soon, so I shall be as quick as I can. . .'[/i]

His tongue drifts smoothly over each would, it taking only a few swipes over each to take away the pain and heal both the inner damage, and the more visible signs of injury. In less then five minutes his back is clear of all signs of damage and he hums softly. Gently he helps Ethan roll over before setting to work on his chest an stomach wounds. A few strands of his hair slip from behind his ears and ghost across the wounded flesh as he goes about healing the youth. The magic drifting from his tongue into the deep tissue would feel warm, tingly, in a pleasant calming way. His chest takes a little longer but as soon as he's done he sits back, his fingers running ghost like over the still marred arms. “I wish you would let me heal them all. . .” he murmurs softly, finally looking up at Ethan's face.

Ethan lay on the ground, oddly comfortable, as he felt the gentle licks on his back. He knew that this was how the youkai healed, but it seemed very different when Yu was in his human form. It was almost... erotic, but Ethan could not allow himself to feel that way. He could not be attracted to Yu. It made no sense. Barely three days ago, he had had no idea that the youkai's kind existed. And this was meant as a friendly healing, no different than it had been when Yu was in his cat form. [i]Get it together[/i], Ethan thought to himself. [i]Have some damn control. It's not meant in that way for them. He's just a friend, doing you a favor as a friend.[/i]

After turning onto his back, he watched the healing magic on his stomach, the faintest silver glow emanating from the youkai's tongue. The gentle tongue and the gentle strands of hair felt amazing on his skin. “I can't,” he muttered in response to Yu's comment. “I don't know what the world would do to you if they found out about you.” He gently touched Yu's back, across where he had seen the scar. “You have entrusted me with the secret of your kind. I'm not going to be the reason you're discovered. That would be horrible. I'd never forgive myself. Thank you for what you have done.”

The gentle touch to his back elicits a faint purr from the youkai and he smiles softly at the youth. He carefully helps Ethan sit up. One hand settling on the youth's furthest hip Yu leans in and licks Ethan's lightly. He looks a mix of sad and grateful as he murmurs, “You are a kind person Ethan. I thank you for worrying about me.” His gaze goes back to the wounded arms. “It does not stop me from feeling sorrow at you pain, however knowing you care so much as to put my safety over your comfort is a calming feeling. . .” He purrs and nuzzles against Ethan's shoulder with his cheek and temple, his hair falling loose from where it had been tucked away and brushes against the human's torso as he continues his feline affections.

“I feel guilty enough, letting you heal the other wounds. But, odds are, I'll have new ones within a few days, so the danger will not last long. And like I said, its not like most people pay enough attention to even notice the ones hidden by my shirt,” Ethan pointed out calmly, as though the thought of him being beaten again was as normal as homework. He held the youkai close. “I must get ready to leave. I have work in just over twenty minutes.” Letting go of his new friend, he found his shirt and put it on. [i]'In a human, these are affections that would only be shared with a lover. But he is not human. Why can't I separate myself from cultural perceptions and just enjoy his friendship. He doesn't love me that way. It's not logical, it's not possible. I'm just an in-valid, and he's this immortal, superhuman being.'[/i]

Yu's eyes flash from gold to silver for a moment, the way Ethan spoke of being hurt so casually making him both angry and worried. No one should expect to be harmed and just accept it in the youkai's opinion, and that seems to be exactly how the youth thinks. He returns the embrace, adding another lick to Ethan's cheeks before letting him go so he can dress himself. In a soft voice, just audible for the youth to hear he says, “I have, and always will, Ethan. . . .Notice. . .”

“How long, exactly, have you been watching me for?” Ethan asked curiously, tracing a finger onto the youkai's arm for a moment. “Don't get me wrong, I appreciate your help, and your care for me. I'm just curious. And why were you so drawn to me back then?”

Yu rolls his shoulders, his purr deepening at the touch. “Actively, a couple years, but even in the passing of the last 8 years I have not been following you, I have seen you every day you passed by my arch, and every time, I felt you pain.” He edges back in to partake in the more human affection known as a 'hug'. He is gentle however as he knows there are still bruises on the boy's arms. “I do not know what first drew my eye, other than the suffering you seemed to be under was far more than any other who passed beneath me.” Pulling back he licks Ethan's forehead. “Though that was not all, and is not all, and I do not know exactly what the other reason is, however I do know it is different and stronger than my normal draw to humans in pain.” He smiles and purrs, cuddling into Ethan's side as he waits for the human to say the final word on leaving, or perhaps pursue the conversation further.

Ethan nodded at the youkai's explanation and took his hand, “I see. Why is it that you never made contact until the other day?” he asked curiously. He gently pulled the youkai forward, clearly gesturing for him to join him in a walk. “And would you like to walk me to work so we can continue our lovely conversation? You can protect me from any passing assholes,” he joked, grinning slightly.

The youkai's ears and tail perk up before seeming to vanish in a small poof of silver smoke, his eyes, locked on Ethan's, shifting to the warm blue of his fully human looking form. He nods sharply at the idea of protecting Ethan and his gaze shifts from the youth to their surroundings as the move towards the edge of the green patch. “I. . . .I am sure it had to do with the law against us revealing ourselves. . .I felt, so drawn to you, I saw that if I got close, I would reveal myself. . .” He smiles, still keeping an eye out. “I do not regret it, in the slightest, and this joy and comfort I have around you is the best I can recall, so do not fret, I am not sad to have broken the unwritten rules.” His smile warms as he glances at Ethan before going back on alert as they step out of the abandoned area.

Ethan grinned and rubbed Yu's upper back as they walked, right between his shoulderblades. “I feel much better now. Thank you. And I'm glad you made contact with me. You make me very happy, my friend. I just hope you don't get in trouble for this,” he commented honestly as he led the way towards the store where he worked.

In his fully human form Yu can not purr, however despite his sharp alert gaze continuing to dart back and forth his smile curls into a very pleased one to express his appreciation of the attention. “There are only two others like me in the city right now. One stays in the sewers, and the other stays on the other side of town where a nice old woman throws bread to the birds.” He glances at Ethan. “He is a bird type you see.” He goes back to looking around. “Not one who looks to hang around a giant cat.” His voice is soft as to not be overheard.

Ethan nodded, “I see.” He felt slightly embarrassed that he had nothing else to contribute to the conversation, but it was quite pleasant to simply enjoy walking with someone. “I feel like there are tons of questions I should ask you, about your life, and your world. You're perspective on... well, everything affected by change over time, would be fascinating. But I have no idea where to even start.”

Yu blinks his slow blink, still keeping an eye out. He draws a few looks with his very old fashioned garb, but as people are always going through changing fashions most write it off as a fad. “You may ask me anything you want Ethan. Why not simply pick what piques your interest most at the moment and go from there?” He smiles gently, “Or I could ask you a question which I would have to answer as well?”

Ethan perked up slightly, “I'm curious as to what you would ask. That sounds fun,” he paused for a moment, analyzing how needlessly cheerful he sounded. “And I sound incredibly... corny. I'm sorry.” He grinned a little, and tried not to look quite as silly as he felt. [i]Stop it, Brain. You're making me act like an idiot. I mean, really, one magical creature holds you and heals your wounds and suddenly your ready to be his? How ridiculous is that? Snap out of it.[/i]

Yu stops and looks back at Ethan. “I do not know what corny means, and you do not look like corn to me, however I like to see you happy so if that means sounding corny then I do not mind.” He smiles and continues walking with the youth. He thinks on his question for a moment, trying to come up with a question that will not ruin the humans good mood, and finally settles on a pair of questions. “Who do you learn the most from, and what do they teach you?”

Ethan smiled slightly at the misunderstanding, but otherwise ignored it. He looked rather confused for a few minutes. “The Internet?” he replied jokingly. “I'm just kidding. But that's actually a hard question. I've learned electronics and web design from Andrea and the other mentors in my group. But I've also learned music from my piano teacher, Mr. Watkins, who sees me for almost nothing, because of my situation. I learn some from my teachers in school, especially in math. Picking a “most” would be unfair. Does that make any sense?” Ethan replied, looking to the youkai as if for approval.

The youkai's head tilts to the side. [i]'Internet, I have heard of that, though that has always been more of a very complex book than a teacher. . .'[/i] He understands quickly that his question was unclear and decides to try and clarify. “By most I mean. . .For example, I learn the most from the wind. It is me. . .Mentor I believe is the word. When it speaks, I listen, because I want to and I trust what it tells me. I take in what it wishes to teach me, and it moves me with it's passions.” He scratches behind an ear idly. “I too have learned from many sources, but it is the wind that is my guide and confidant.” He looks to Ethan again. “Most is not the most amount of information, it is the one who's words and knowledge settle the deepest inside you. Do you understand now? I do not think less of those who have taught me other things, I simply resonate best with what the wind teaches me. . .”

Ethan looked down at the ground for the moment. “I couldn't choose between the two of them, between Andrea or Mr. Watkins I mean. Both of them have helped shape who I am, both in my hobbies and who I am as a person. I don't think either of them 'resonate' with me in the way the wind does with you, however. I don't think I have an equivalent in my life. Then again, I've never had the wind talk to me either.” He grinned slightly, leaning his head on Yu's arm as they walked.

As they pass from the main road to a slightly less open side road Yu slips in close to Ethan and wraps an arm around his waist. As he has in ages past, in a long forgotten time for most, Yu sends small trickles of his magic into the human's body and for a brief moment he shares his power and lets Ethan “hear” the wind. The sound is not words, and the human has little hope of understanding that it's trying to say, but to the soul it would feel calm and a bit cheerful. Giving Ethan's his a squeeze he lets him go, retracting his magics before lacing his fingers together with the human's. “Now, you can no longer claim to have heard the wind.” He smiles warmly. “Humans do not feel the world and one another the way youkai do, so if they feel so for you, then I am sure while not the same, it is just as special.” He squeezes Ethan's hand gently. “And it is most delightful that you have two. You are lucky.”

Ethan's eyes widened slightly at the added touch, and moreso when he began to feel the slightest tendrils of magic. He was unsure how he knew that the threads were magical, but on some level, he somehow understood what Yu was doing. He closed his eyes on impulse, and felt the cheer and the serenity of the wind. He met Yu's eyes in surprise as the experience ended. “That was... wonderful,” he muttered, looking to him. “And I suppose I am lucky, though I rarely think of myself as such. But still, I wish I could feel the world as you do.”

Yu hums gently. “If you truly wish that, I can teach you. You may never feel it exactly as I do, but I feel the potential within you to accept such things.” He hums again, in place of purring. “The fact that you could accept my magic at all is incredible, and that it was pleasant, a good sign. . .” He smiles widely, not looking around as much as there is no one particularly close. “It is rare these days to find someone who can accept magic as you do. You are rare and special, Ethan.”

“No, I'm not special. I'm a nearly-blind freak who will never amount to anything. But... I appreciate you saying that, Yu. And I would love to learn” Ethan replied sadly, looking up into the youkai's eyes for another moment before resuming their walk.

The youkai is very confused by the human's response and rather than continuing walking he tightens his grip a little and pulls Ethan to a halt gently. He makes sure he has Ethan's eyes before speaking. “You are special, whether you choose to believe it or not my friend, and I feel greatly saddened that you seem to think so little of yourself.” He moves in a little closer to the youth, reaching up to brush some stray hairs from the human's forehead, tucking them behind his ear. His hand does not retreat immediately, instead his thumb runs gently over the brow above the boy's non functioning eye. His voice is soft as a whisper as he continues. “You are what you make yourself out to be, not what the world sees of you, and as long as you think so, you will be so, and that is not who you are, I can see it.”

He cups Ethan's cheek, looking deep into his eyes. “You are rare.” His magic trickles out again, brushing gently against the life energy running through every corner of the human's being. “This is proof of that, at the least. You are special, and you are my friend, so please, stop being so hard on yourself? Those who judge you, those who are cruel to you, they are wrong and need a good thrashing of the soul to set them right.” Leaning in he kisses the same brow he ran his thumb over before licking Ethan's forehead and smiling warmly at him. Giving the youth another hug he looks towards the direction they'd been walking, hoping that he was not making Ethan late.

Ethan met his friend's eyes with only a slight bit of hesitation, gazing down into the beautiful blue irises. He felt the thumb on his brow, and instinctively closed his eyes. It was in the next moment that he felt the magic flow over him, filling every spare inch of his body with a sensation that could only be described as “love.” It was a beautiful sensation, and Ethan felt that he could have reveled in it for the rest of the day. But alas, if he lost his job, he would not be able to pay his rent without dipping into his savings, so he was relieved when the youkai freed him from it. Smiling, he leaned down as guided, allowing Yu to kiss his brow.

“I wish I could believe you, my friend. But I can't. Not when I've been considered useless scum my whole life. Maybe one day I will learn to trust those words, and I don't want to upset you by continuing this.” That being said, he tentatively placed an arm around Yu's shoulders and continued walking.

“I will never lie to you. . . .My friend. . . .” Yu murmurs simply in response, letting the youth guide them on. He nuzzles into Ethan's shoulder as they walk, humming since he can't purr. “No matter what your eyes see, you will always be precious to me. . . .” He becomes alert once more as they move back out where people are and his next question is quiet as to not be overheard. “How do you feel about nature? As in, do you enjoy the green, or are your eyes more pleased buy the things humans have built. Do not try to spare my feelings, for I will not judge you either way.”

Ethan grinned at the youkai's calming words. He could not help but feel rather cheered as his friend spoke of him as though he were precious, despite having hardly known him but a few days. Though Yu claimed he would not judge the youth, Ethan still looked away in embarrassment. “I do find some beauty in nature, but I prefer many human inventions and technologies. I could not explain why, however. I simply find them more interesting. I'm always open to learning and perhaps changing my mind, though,” Ethan replied honestly.

He smiles softly, glad that the boy decided to be honest. “Perhaps you would learn to take more interest in nature if you learn more of it, beyond how much most human are able to.” He chuckles. “To learn of my magic, you will learn of nature as well, as it is from the world the energy springs, I simply harbor and transform it.” With Ethan's arm across his shoulders Yu can not hold the boy's hand, so instead he slips his arm around Ethan's waist, clasping his opposite hip gently. “I myself fine the beauty in nature more appealing, though that is a . . .I believe the phrase is “Give-in”. Meaning I am of nature, so it is most fine to me. However since I see it through different eyes, nature is not to me as it is for you. It's colors and shapes and energy, they are all visible to me. . .” He hums and rubs against Ethan's shoulder. “I have seen some of the beauties of human invention as well, and I have come to admire some things.” He smiles up at Ethan warmly. “Perhaps you can teach me about some of the human inventions and technologies that interest you as well.”

Ethan loved the feeling of the arm around his waist, though he hated to admit it. He had not known until the minute Yu had held him how much he longed for the touch of another. Now, he hated to leave it, even if only for a few hours. “I would like that very much,” he replied shyly, as they approached the parking lot to where he worked. “I have to go now, unfortunately. Can I see you again sometime soon?” he asked. Despite the youkai's assurances that he would never leave, the young man suddenly found himself irrationally afraid that his friend would disappear, never to be seen again. Or that worse, he had somehow still dreamed the whole wonderful afternoon.

Humming again Yu nuzzles the boy's shoulder before slipping out of his grasp. The wind picks up for a moment and he closes his eyes to listen. The breeze ruffles his clothing, tossing his hair about as if it is dancing, and his nose lifts higher as he tastes the breeze. [i]'No one around, no one is watching, it is safe. . .'[/i] Looking back to Ethan he smiles fondly, his smile widening as he slowly shifts back into his animal form, his clothes seeming to melt into thin air. Slipping forward he twined himself around and through Ethan's legs several times before propping himself up on his back legs to lick at the boy's hand gently. “I will be here when you come out. I have a run to make, but I will be back soon, I swear it my friend.” Rubbing his full length against Ethan's leg one last time he takes a seat on the pavement, keeping his eyes on his new companion.

[i]Wow, you're beautiful[/i], Ethan thought, not for the first or last time, as he watched Yu's clothes and hair in the wind. He watched the transformation, certain that he would never get tired of seeing the beautiful changes. Scratching behind the cat's ears with his other hand, he muttered, clearly embarrassed, “You don't have to wait for me, or be here when I get back. I don't want to inconvenience you. I just meant that I wanted to know a date, that's all.”

[i]'He is such a silly human'[/i] With a deep purr he stands up, moving around behind the youth. Rearing up he comes down, butting the back of Ethan's thigh with his head. “Go on now. I will be here. On my word, I will be here, because I want to be here.” He butts the boy's leg again before once more sitting, looking not unlike those Egyptian Bast statues, though with more meat on his bones.

Ethan grinned, “Goodbye my friend. I'll see you in six hours,” he muttered, waving back to the regal-looking cat. Miraculously, he was right on time for his shift, so he wandered into the back door, trying not to look quite so happy as he felt, for he did not want anyone asking questions. As usual, he clocked in and went directly to the back room. The store considered itself to be charitable by even employing in-valids, but they made sure to keep them hidden from the view of customers. Ethan himself only came out of the storeroom for a few minutes at a time to stock the shelves. His actual tasks were exceedingly boring, as usual, but he entertained himself with thoughts of Yu. Though, naturally, he was careful to avoid letting those thoughts stray into “inappropriate” territory.

His co-worker, Ryan, a red-haired in-valid, worked with him on inventory, but thankfully did not notice his rather distant demeanor. Ethan had always been a little distracted at times, so Ryan simply assumed his friend was thinking about a project or something, and did not push the issue. After all, he was in no mood for one of Ethan's mildly interesting, but lengthy explanations.

The time dragged on, but soon enough, the youth's shift was over. He emerged from the back entrance late at night, covered in a thin sheen of sweat from his last task, and immediately looked for his friend. “There's no way he waited this long. He couldn't have -,” he muttered quietly, before spotting the youkai perched almost exactly where Ethan had left him.

“Hello again!” he greeted excitedly, and jogged up to the cat to scratch behind his ears. “I'm glad to see you.”

Yu looks to the sky to mark the hour before watching Ethan vanish into the building. As soon as he's sure he's inside the youkai turns and races away. He bounds along through the city at a speed no normal feline could possibly hope to achieve, but to anyone watching it would somehow come across as perfectly normal. The glamor is simple, and doesn't take much energy. It allows him to move more freely throughout the city. [i]'I just need to check on that family with the infestation tendency. They lost a goodly amount of food last time those things invaded, and I will not let it happen again so long as I am able'[/i]

The home is of a family of in-valids along the edge of the corner of town he occupies, a father, mother, and daughter all living in a one bedroom shack of some sort. Somehow it feels to not even belong in the city, but then again, a lot of the homes in this part of the city do not seem to fit the city. Once the house comes into view he slows, the girl playing in the yard spotting him as he approaches and he purrs as her face lights up in delight. The toddler gets to her feet and nearly falls over in her haste. Yu darts in, catching her on his back and stilling until she can stand on her own. He plays with the tot for several minutes before inspecting the house and racing of again. [i]'Such a sweet girl'[/i] he thinks sadly, wondering why she is forced into such a sad situation.

He is soon back in the parking lot, and after inspecting the building to make sure Ethan did not leave while he was away, he takes up his place in the lot to wait. A stray bit of trash or dancing leaf catches his attention every once in a while, and as is his nature, he would chase it until he lost interest, and about the time the youth said his shift was up he does not let even the chattering of a nearby squirrel distract him from watching the door. His tail begins to twitch happily at the sight of Ethan and he purrs deeply. At the touch of Ethan's fingers he arches up, pushing against the hand so it naturally slides from his head across his neck and shoulders before he drops back on to his forepaws.

“I am glad to see you too Ethan. I hope your work went well?” He snuffs at the boy's hand, propping himself up on his back legs and pressing one paw to the youth's hip to sniff at his midsection as well before rubbing against Ethan's stomach with his face. He can feel the pure joy racing through him at being with his new companion once again and continues caressing him with his body to try and convey how happy he is.

Ethan knelt down next to the large cat and patted his soft fur, enjoying the feel of his warmth against his hands. “Thank you for waiting,” he whispered. “What would you like to do now?”

Yu's purr continues to deepen as he's pet and he doesn't stop rubbing against the youth even as he perks up to speak. “Food? You have eaten naught but a hotdog since lunch, unless you ate inside?” He snuffs at Ethan's lips to check for traces of food smell.

The youkai would find no traces of food smell on Ethan's lips. “Nope, I didn't eat anything. I do know of a lovely fast food place not too far from here though. It's cheap and run by in-valids who happen to rather like me, or at least pity me. Plus, the food is great. Would you like to be my date?” he asked jokingly, smirking just a bit.

Other than the faint smell of the hotdog Yu finds no trace of food stuffs. He licks Ethan's chin playfully and listens with his ears perked forward. He blinks slightly at the word “Cheap” and for a moment he recalls how food requires currency for humans. At the invitation to be Ethan's date Yu's head snaps around owl style and then with a kitty smirk he transforms, his hands slipping on to on Ethan's arms so the boy can feel the change. Once he is near fully human he slips forward and throws his arms gently around Ethan's neck. The last thing to change is his purr and while holding the boy his deep purrs turn into humming as he rubs his cheek against the boy's. “I would love to join you. I need not eat much as I feed myself mostly.”

Ethan enjoyed the feeling of Yu's transformation on his arms, as he felt the youkai's paws turn into human hands. [i]God, I could get used to the feeling of his arms around my neck – No! Bad thought! Go away![/i] he chastised himself, but he could not help but enjoy the feeling of the arms and then the cheek against his own. “You can eat what you want here. After all, you got me lunch. Shouldn't I take care of dinner?” he pointed out, somehow unable to stop himself from grinning ear to ear. Tentatively, he took Yu's hand and began to lead him in the direction of the restaurant.

Yu chuckles softly, lacing his fingers between Ethan's and gripping his hand tenderly. “The meal I got you however was small, and free. It was more a kindness of the old man than a gift from me. I just had to look cute.” He smiles and walks close to Ethan with a gentle smile. He hums softly. “I appreciate you spending resources on me my friend. I am most grateful.”

Ethan listened as they walked, and wound up biting his lip, almost embarrassed at the thanks. “You are giving me much more than just a simple meal by being here with me,” he admitted, glaring down at the pavement. “Buying you dinner is the least I can do.”

Yu notices the glare and whines softly, clinging closer to the human. “Is something wrong? Have I. . . Done something wrong?”

"No, no! Of course you've done nothing wrong!" Ethan exclaimed, looking back at his new companion. "I guess I was just a bit sad because I can't do more for you. I have no powers to share, and I doubt you want my companionship as much as I want yours. And even if you did, I would have to leave you hanging around for me, for school, work, my lessons and homework... I guess I just feel like I'm inadequate," Ethan replied, but not before adding a thought of his own. [i]Also, I wish I could just kiss you, damnit.[/i]

Yu hums softly, smiling gently. “You seem to undervalue your companionship Ethan. You have done, and still do for me something I have not had in a very long count of years, and it brings me a joy I had forgotten I could feel.” He hums again and gives Ethan a firm hug, rubbing the youth's back. “I am glad I have done nothing wrong.” He nuzzles the underside of the youth's chin before giving it a lick. “I do things while you are away.” He says softly. “Though I do not mind waiting. I have done a lot of waiting, however with such a grand prize at the end of the wait, I find it far more entertaining these days. More tolerable, and without tedium.” He breath trickles past his lips and on to the humans neck as he tries to pour his passion and honestly into the embrace.

The teenager did not want to admit just how much he loved the hug, how much he loved the way his chin was nuzzled, how much he felt loved. If he dared, he was afraid he would overstep his bounds with this creature. He would lose the trust of this amazing friend, and he could not allow that.

“I'm glad,” Ethan replied with a false confidence, meeting his new friend's eyes and smirking ever so slightly. “But I'm still buying you dinner.” He led the way a few blocks until they reached a simple sandwich shop, called “Jimmy's,” and walked inside. “Tell me when you are ready,” he suggested, as he put his bag down on a nearby booth.

Yu gazes back at the youth, vaguely wondering why he hides so much of himself, those little flashes behind his eyes telling him there is much more to discover about his friend than even Ethan knows. He chuckles, a bounce in his step as they move off to the food shop. As soon as they step inside he takes a deep breath. Despite there being little of his “Mentor” truly in the building itself he can still gather all he needs through it to know that this is a good place.

Humming happily he follows Ethan to the booth, his eyes darting this way and that as he draws more and more eyes to him simply by his appearance and bearing. The youkai stands as if the ground beneath his is soft as cotton, his hands near constantly curling and uncurling as if making ready for some great feat. His eyes seem to lock on like a sniper scope no matter what he's looking at, except Ethan. His eyes soften when they land on the youth and is normally accompanied by a smile.

He sits down slowly, unused to the confining nature of dinner booths, and stays near the edge least he need to get up suddenly. He breaths deeply again, this time taking in the smell of food and he hums delightedly at the scents drifting on the air. Looking at the middle of the table he sees a stand with menus tucked into it. Reaching out he grabs one gently, letting it fall to the table where he paws at it, a curious look on his face.

Ethan could not help but notice his friend's nerves, so he took Yu's hand in both of his own and smiled. “Calm down. You're safe here. You're only attracting curiosity because you are dressed so oddly. Just say you're coming from a historical reenactment fair, or some kind of convention, if anyone asks,” he said calmly, looking at his friend from across the table. “Got any options in mind for what to order?”

His eyes snap over to Ethan and he smiles gently. “It has been some time since I have been. . .Inside,” He emphasizes that word hoping Ethan gets his meaning despite the words that follow, “a dinner like this in a while. Everything feels new and exciting. New places always put me on alert, especially when inside. . .” He tilts his head tot he side. “I do not exactly fear for my safety,” he adds in a whisper, “however the nature in me feels isolated, away from the earth like this.” He taps his foot on the tile floor to emphasize his meaning.

He hums happily however a moment later. “I like it here though. It smells good, and does not feel completely closed off. I think there is a window open somewhere. . .” He looks around again before going back to pawing at the menu. He reads it carefully, his feet swinging gently as they do not quite reach the floor unless he tries, then looks to Ethan a soft smile. “I recognize what goes into each dish, however I can not decide which has more meat of the two that sound appealing.” He points to two cheap meals, one a chicken sandwich, the other some mix of meats sandwich, both fairly cheap. He licked them purposely, having looked at prices before ingredients. The numbers did not make perfect sense, but enough to know they are nearly the least expensive on the menu.

Ethan nodded at his new friend's explanation. He could not imagine feeling so attached to nature, but that was all right. He would learn in time. For now, he rubbed Yu's hand comfortingly. He was unable to keep himself from smirking when Yu began licking the menu, however. He should have been grossed out, at least at the thought of all the germs on these things. But on Yu, the action seemed naïve and adorable. He just grinned wider. But he was curious about it. His voice dropped to a whipser as he asked, “If I may, why are you licking it?”

Yu makes a faint noise in the back of his throat before whispering a reply. “I lick things when I am thinking. I would have licked my hands, but they were full of menu.”

Ethan grinned, though he was unsure (or rather in attempted denial) of why he was smiling so much. Too much more of this and his face muscles would get tired. "I see. Well, let's move closer to that open window in the corner," he suggested, grabbing his bag and heading over.

The youkai's head lifts up and he smiles happily, following after Ethan as he once more proves his kindness my catering to the smaller male. “Thank you Ethan. It is nice to be near the open air.” The nearest table to the window is a table with old wooden chairs around it. The youkai is far more comfortable in them, even going so far as to cross his legs and settle in. Normally he prefers benches and long places to sit, but the booths are simply too confining.

Pawing at his menu he looks back to Ethan he whispers the question again. “Which one has more meat?” He points at the two sandwiches again.

“I'll go up and order for us,” Ethan announced, grinning back at Yu like he was the most amazing thing in the world. The cashier was a friend of his from his Robotics club, named Victor, who smirked teasingly at him.

“So, who's the weird-looking friend who you clearly have a crush on?” he asked jokingly, meeting his friend's eyes and noticing how he turned beet-red.

“Just a friend. Two cold-cut sandwhiches please.”

“Bullshit! I've never seen you so … grinny.”

“Victor, not now. I just met him. I'm not attracted to him that way. It's not rational.”

“Fuck you and your rationality. Emotions are never rational.”

“Well, I have to be rational. So, I don't like him.”

“Fool. Haven't you heard of love at first sight?”

“Yeah, and it's not real. The best you can get is lust.”

“So, you do lust after him...” Victor teased. Ethan just narrowed his eyes into a glare.

“Leave it alone, please,” Ethan pleaded.

“Yeah, okay. I'll give you and your date over there 50% off. After all, I'd love for this relationship to blossom.”

“He's not my date!” Ethan muttered, wondering how good Yu's hearing was. But he appreciated the discount, and he knew full well that Victor was just doing it to make up for teasing him. So he paid, took the change and the order ticket, and went back to their lovely table.

Instead of answering his question Ethan simply gets up and heads over to order for them causing Yu to whine gently. He turns an ear towards them, since he can not actually turn his ears in this form. The conversation is interesting to the youkai,and for the most part he can't makes heads or tails of most of it. [i]'Crush? Does that mean he seems like he wishes to. . .'[/i] As the conversation goes on it is clear it has nothing to do with attacking. [i]'Interesting. He does not find me attractive, yet I have seen attraction in his eyes. At the least he seems to like looking at me. . .'[/i] He hums softly, deciding to ask Ethan when he gets back.

The wind trickles in through the window and touches on the two at the counter and Yu feels a faint thrill at how kind the one behind the counter feels. When at last Ethan comes back Yu smiles relaxedly at the youth and murmurs, “Well, he seems nice. I do not understand what fifty percent off means, but it sounds as if he is granting you some favor.” He yawns languidly, adding, “He is right you know, about emotions not being rational. They are what they are and should not be stifled by the mind. . .” He yawns again, stretching his arms out over the tabletop and rolling his shoulders, clearly unbothered by what he overheard.

Nearly all the color drained from Ethan's face as he looked back at Yu. “You didn't – Um, how much of that did you hear?” he asked tentatively, looking down at the table as if the grooves in the wood were the most fascinating things in the world.

Yu blinks one of his slow blinks. “I can hear that little old lady outside the shop across the street humming to her flowers.” he says in answer pointing out the window. The old woman in question is about 50 yards away. He notes the sudden color change. “Is something wrong? Are you not feeling well? Is the breeze making you cold?” His voice holds a distinct note of worry as he stands to close said window.

Ethan continued to look away. "No, no... I'm not cold. Just very embarrassed. I don't think Victor meant for you to hear that, and I know I didn't."

Yu pauses mid way to the window, turning back to look at the youth. [i]'He. . .I do not understand what is wrong. . .'[/i] Slowly and carefully he makes his way over to Ethan, kneeling down next to him and placing his hands on the boy's leg as he would were he in his feline form. He gazes up at the youth who is turned away from him and speaks softly, that note of worry still in his voice. “I can not help what I hear, and what I heard did not bother me. Though I am curious about a few things, I feel nothing bad towards what you or he said. . .” With a soft sigh he lays his head on his hands. “I wish I knew what troubles you so. . .”

Ethan bit his lip, still afraid to look at his friend, or to touch him. But he was saved for the moment. “Order 86!” he heard in Victor's voice. “That's us, I'll grab it,” he said quickly. Taking a deep breath, he got out of his chair and walked up to the counter, where Victor had his order ready.

“You fucking idiot! He heard us!” he whispered to his old friend.

“Seriously? From over there. What, does he have like bat hearing?” Victor whispered back, clearly surprised.

“Apparently... What the hell am I supposed to do now?”

“I don't know? Tell him how you feel? I'm sorry for putting you into this so fast, but you might as well get it out in the open. I've never seen you as happy as you were when you two walked in here.” With that, he shrugged and walked to the back, the slightest mischievous smirk on his face. Rolling his eyes, Ethan took the sandwiches and cups of water and walked back over to Yu.

“Let's talk about this outside, okay?” he requested, handing Yu his sandwich and drink.

Ethan continues refusing to look at him but Yu is patent, not doing anything to press the issue forward after expressing his wish to understand. He hums softly, a tuneless noise but still with a calming feel to most humans. When Ethan stands to get their order Yu moves carefully to the side, his hands sliding off the boy's leg as he extracts himself from both chair and youkai. Yu stands and stretches, looking to the two, once more listening to them speak. [i]'He seems upset with his friend. . .This is so confusing'[/i] Shaking his head he glances at a few other patrons who seem to be catching on to the growing tension in the humans at the counter. Yu himself is still perfectly relaxed, even if he is worried.

When Ethan comes back Yu is even more confused than before. Their words seem to imply something far more important than Ethan simply thinking him a friend, and it seems to have something to do with how happy the boy was when they entered. [i]'It is true I have not seen him so happy before myself, save perhaps a few times out with his brother, however I do not know what this has to do with his feelings towards me. . .'[/i] He glances up at Ethan an nods before following him out. [i]'As far as I can tell they are positive, so what. . . .'[/i] He shakes his head, deciding to wait until Ethan explains what's going on.

Ethan led the way to a grassy area nearby, under a tree, and sat down. “I thought you would like this place. One of the few patches of green left.” He paused for a moment, realizing that he could not just deflect from the issue and leave his new friend so confused. “I-I don't know where to start, so what would you like to ask me?”

Once back outside his worry lessens a bit, the wind touching on his shin gently as if to reassure and calm him. He lets out a soft sigh and follows behind the youth until they come to a small patch of green. It is far more public than the one they were at before, however it feels good beneath the youkai's feet. Yu hums at the feeling and settles down upon it with a warm smile. He can feel the tension radiating off the boy however he does his best not to cause any more. [i]'Though I do not know what has caused this worry, I will do whatever I can to help ease it'[/i] The that end he sits near to Ethan, facing him so they may “Speak privately” as it would seem the boy's hidden intent.

Yu had seen it many times before. Suggesting to move to a different location for some “privacy”, even if this place is not so private as some places they could go. At the question the youkai stills, licking his lips slowly. He's not quite sure what to say, as he has many questions, but before he asks any of them he says softly, “You may have noticed I an not one for subtly or secrecy, beyond oaths I have taken for the safety of my people, so I apologize now if anything I ask is something you would rather kept secret, and please tell me if it is, and I will not ask again, at least not at this time.” Humming, he looks down at the sandwich, giving it a sniff before nibbling at it.

Finally he looks back to the boy and begins as simply as he can manage. “Is it so wrong of me to have heard what you two spoke of? I did not mean to be rude, I simply hear far better than a human. . .” He whines softly looking at Ethan with soft, worried eyes.

Ethan looked away. “It's not wrong. I'm not angry at you. I'm just embarrassed. I should have guessed that you had superior hearing.” He paused for a long moment, “Besides, I'm not proud of how I'm beginning to feel towards you. And even if you hadn't heard, the fact that it was so obvious to Victor would have been embarrassing enough.”

Yu recalls vaguely what it means to be embarrassed, and also recalls that it had always sounded both unpleasant, and irrational. He also knows he's rather weird for having never felt it. He's felt ashamed of his actions, or fearful of having done something he shouldn't have, however he's never been embarrassed. It use to drive the other younglings a little crazy that he was never really bothered by things. [i]'I have spent long around humans, and over all I find they are the most self punching race I have ever met. . .'[/i] He tilts his head this way and that, his lids at half mast as he tries desperately to understand just what is going on.

“Feelings are not things that carry pride nor shame, they simply are, and that others know them is not something to be. . . embarrassed. . .about. It simply means you are feeling them fully, and true, and some part of you wishes to share them.” He hums softly, taking a sip of the drink, a faint smile coming to his lips at the taste of chilled milk. Looking back to Ethan the smile is still in place. “As for, what you feel towards me. . . .” His expression is very gentle. “I have seen nothing but positive, soft emotions in your eyes, and I do not take issue with such feelings.” He smiles warmly, “And anyone who does is a fool. People feel what they feel, and they can not help that, so shaming them for something involuntary is foolish.”

Ethan looked down at his sandwich. “You don't understand. It's more than that. I... I'm afraid that I'm attracted to you... as more than a friend. But it's totally irrational! I mean, I just met you, I didn't even know your kind existed a few days ago. It's just, you've been very kind to me, made me feel loved, and special. And stupidly, so stupidly, it's making me attracted to you. It's insane, completely irrational. I just met you for godsakes!” Ethan paused, glared down at the grass, and took a deep breath. He did not want to upset the youkai by seeming angry with him. “I'm sorry. I don't know why I'm telling you any of this. I would have never said it if you hadn't overheard Victor and me. I'm not looking for anything from you. I know I'm not good enough to ever dream of being yours. Your friendship is more than enough, and more than I could have dreamed was possible. I won't be offended if you just want to forget everything I just said.” His words had been stammered, a little too fast, but they were entirely honest. Ethan tentatively looked up into Yu's eyes, almost afraid of how the youkai would react to that, despite all of his reassurances.

The youkai listens quietly, his eyes caressing the boy's tense figure gently, trying to understand the tossing emotion at the same time as trying to figure out his own. [i]'The anger, the frustration, the fear, it all seems so strong, so painful. I. . .Am I at fault? Should I never have revealed myself to him?'[/i] It takes only an instant of thinking on what the boy was going through to set aside his thoughts on being wrong. He was right to step forward and defend the youth, and nothing will ever convince him he's wrong on that. His body warms pleasantly despite how much Ethan seems to be beating himself up over everything. The admission of the youth's strong feelings has him feeling quite calm and pleased. He does not feel opposed to the young man's affections.

He looks back at Ethan, his calm expression warmer than usual and on the inside he changes just enough so that he can purr,t he hum just not feeling right in this situation. His eyes are almost closed and the smile on his lips is gentle and open. “Your affection, you fear it? Your words, you wish to be mine, and fear I do not also feel as if I would give myself to you. . .” His purr is deep, the faint tingling on his skin making him wish he could be in his natural humanoid form as he can feel the urge to twist and coil his tail. Setting his food aside his smile never wavers as he looks to Ethan in a mix of consideration and confusion.

Curling his fingers on his lap he rolls his shoulders, the human form feeling a bit tight on him at the moment. “I. . .had not considered such before this moment, but as you mention it, I feel. . . .Delighted at the idea of becoming closer with you.” The wind moves around them and Yu visibly shivers as if it chills him. He can feel the warning on it, but at the same time it is almost as if a small voice inside it is urging him forward, to move on, to continue with this feeling rising in him.

Ethan bit his lip. The kind expressions on his friend's face threatened to melt his heart, and he instinctively snuggled closer to the youkai's body. He nodded as Yu summarized what he had said, still embarrassed to have it so laid out. But when he expressed his delight at the idea, Ethan nearly backed away.

“But... but how? You're an immortal magical being, and I'm just an ordinary human, from the lower echelon of human society. You're not even supposed to reveal yourself to me, and even if you were, how could I ever be worthy of you?”

Yu enjoys the cuddles but he can feel the youth tense near the end of his words. The Ethan goes on to confuse the poor youkai who once more marvels at the strangeness of humans and their view on emotions and social status. He speaks softly and slowly, and prays that Ethan will take him at his word, as he is not sure how to be any clearer. After figuring out that he would be happy to be closer to the youth he feels almost a faint touch of fear that the boy would run now.

“Who I am, and what you are, has nothing to do with how you or I feel.” He looks at Ethan and touches his face gently. “What I am and what I have I am free to offer to anyone I wish to, just as it is for you, and any other being capable of feeling. No matter who it is coming from, what you say you wish to offer is without a measure of worth, and no greater than what I have to offer.” He continues to purr deeply. “Social status, race, age, upbringing, all of these things fall by the wayside when it comes to such happenings as what I feel happening between us. . .” He looks around, spotting a few people and huffing gently. “Looking back at Ethan he murmurs softly, “Will you come with me somewhere? I wish you speak with you true and this disguise does not feel right for such talks. . .”

“Tell that to all of those matchmaking websites that use your genetic profile to rate you and find the person with whom you are most compatible,” Ethan teased, but he smiled. “Of course we can go somewhere else. I am afraid I would follow you anywhere, my friend.” He picked up his bag and his still-uneaten sandwich and waited to follow the youkai.

“Sounds silly to me.” he murmurs. As soon as Ethan is situated Yu leads him just around a corner out of sight before scooping him up easily and taking off like a shot. The human would not be able to feel the momentum of his speed, nor will any humans they pass see anything, though they would feel a faint breeze in their passing. He holds the youth securely to him, bridal style, in in less time then it takes to say 'What's going on?' they are out of the city and into a nearby forest. The humans stay away from it, and the youkai have little use for one so close to human habitation, so it's a safe a place as any for what Yu has in mind.

As soon as they arrive in a suitable place, a clearing with a small stream running through it and thick grass all around, Yu comes to a stop soft as a whisper and sets Ethan carefully on his feet. While the human orients himself Yu pulls out his own meal from their place hidden in his sleeves and sets the items upon the grass. Once he is sure he has the boy's attention again he releases his disguise and lets out a long sigh, his golden eyes settling on Ethan gently. The wind twists and tosses around his body, the mixed message still racing through it along with a note that the area is clear for miles around them. His clothing and hair tosses about before settling as the breeze passes. He once more smiles at the boy, stalking in a little closer so they can speak softly. “Tell me true, Ethan, please, about how you feel?”

Ethan held tightly to Yu as he rode in his arms. Though the ride was shockingly comfortable, lacking in the pressures associated with acceleration, the teen still found himself frightened as he watched the scenery pass them. After looking around and reorienting himself, he also pulled out his sandwich and sat down.

“Right now, I feel rather lightheaded and impressed at your abilities,” Ethan replied warmly, snuggling up to the youkai. He smirked mischievously before continuing to answer the real question. “I don't know how I feel, not exactly. I'm drawn to you. I'm attracted to you. I'm not insane enough to say that I love you, not after knowing you for less than a week. Just now, when you told me that you would consider a relationship with me, I was in shock and disbelief because it's difficult for me to believe that you could ever feel the same way about me. I'm still realizing just how wonderful that sounds. I'm not ready to make some kind of life commitment; I just want to be closer to you. That's how I feel.”

Yu sighs again as Ethan sits down and he drops down, shifting over so he is sitting near the youth. He settles back on his hands comfortably so the boy can snuggle in and he listens silently to what he has to say. He purrs happily at praise to his abilities, his tail thumping against the ground. [i]'With the wind as my teacher, swift travel is easy for me. It is so adorable that he is impressed by things I take for granted. Makes me recall just how amazing these skills are. . .'[/i] He tilts his head to the side, curious as to what time has to do with loving someone however he sets that aside for now, knowing humans are different from youkai in that the connections they feel require some sort of forging period.

“You need not disbelieve my feelings. I know them well, and I understand them fully.” He rubs his face against Ethan's shoulder. “I too wish to become closer to you young one, and I know the caring inside me is strong and pure and will love you as much as is permitted.” He nibbles at his sandwich again, sipping his milk before adding on, “I love all humans who are not evil, however I know this love is different. . .” He looks up at Ethan with a fond smile. “Youkai do not need to think on their feelings, they simply feel them, and follow them. I know how I feel, but I will wait until you are sure. I will not force anything upon you you are not willing to accept.” He continues munching on his meal quietly, his tail coming up to settle on Ethan’s opposite shoulder.

“Someday, you'll have to explain that whole instant connections thing to me. I can't imagine it. Though, perhaps it means my fast feelings for you make a little more sense.” He also began to nibble at his sandwich and drink his water, but he snuggled in closer to Yu as he did so. “I had already vowed never to reveal my feelings to you, because I never thought I could be worthy of your affections. To have that shattered in under an hour is... astounding. To tell you the truth, I have no idea where to go from here. I've never felt this... this irrationally close to anyone, not this soon. It's frightening," the young man said tentatively.

Yu's purr deepens. “There is no need to be afraid if them. Emotions are a part of who and what you are. Feel them, and let them guide your actions.” He nuzzles against the youth once more, scraping his teeth gently over Ethan's cloth covered shoulder. He murmurs softly, “To fear them simply acts to punish yourself. And you have enough unjust punishment as it is Ethan. . .Please do not add to it. . .” Settling his cheek on the boy's shoulder he eats slowly, looking to the stream a handful of paces away. The light babble of it joins the faint sound of shifting grass and rustling leaves.

“I can't. It's too easy to be controlled by them. I used to feel the anger. I used to try and hit back when I was beaten. It did no good. Three years ago, I was suspended for fighting with one of the jerks. He got nothing. So of course then my parents gave me a pretty strong punishment for that one. After that, I started forcing myself not to be so guided by my emotions. Besides, the 'punishment' I deal with is not unjust. It's just a part of my life. Supposedly, I deserve it, for having DNA that rejected the treatments,” Ethan said honestly. There was little self-pity in his voice. His tone was almost matter-of-fact, as though he were stating random facts of nature.

A low growl replaces the purr in the youkai's throat as the youth goes on and on as if his pain is deserved, and not the atrocity it really is. The wind around them goes from soft and calm to what feels like a mini tornado as the wind attempts to calm him. Unlike a real tornado no vacuum was created so the beings inside would not suffocate. Despite how calm Yu normally is, hearing the one he loves speak this way makes his old wound ache painfully, the foolishness of humans and how poorly they treat one another a never ending struggle when it comes to his temper. [i]'I do not blame the race on a whole, however this mindset, these thoughts, what he must have been going through all this time without the support and love he deserves. . .'[/i]

The breeze does not abate as he responds to Ethan. Though his voice is as calm as ever, his eyes glow bright silver and seem anything but calm as they remain locked on some point in the distance. “Never stop fighting Ethan. Your anger is what is just, not the cruelty they have all visited upon you. Their eyes are flawed, their souls corrupt, and their actions reprehensible.” His eyes still glowing turn to the boy at his side, though now they are clearly fierce, but not directed against the youth. He shifts away from Ethan so he can shift up on to his eyes so he is eye level with him. His hands slide out, the breeze around them becoming a little more gentle, and he settles them on the boy's shoulders.

“You were not wrong Ethan. You are who you are, and that is something you can not change. What they have done is not punishment, it is pure fear and cruelty. They do not deserve to be a part of your life.” His hands slide from Ethan's shoulders to his cheeks, the breeze now dancing with fallen leaves and bits of grass as it swirls about the two. “Never stop fighting, and when you no longer have the strength to do so, I will be there to pick you, and to remove all this evil from your life, I will fight when you can not, and I will not let this torment continue.” He means every word of what he says, leaning in closer until at last he reaches the end of what he has to say, sealing his promise with a kiss. His magic spreads from his lips through the youth's body, conveying his love and conviction with every humming inch of it.

Around them all the leaves seem to fly to the top of the funnel. The wind suddenly vanishes and the leaves and grass slowly begins floating down around them, a few bits falling on them. As he pulls back Yu notices a leaf settled on Ethan's head and with a smile he plucks it off, looking at it with his once more gold eyes before tossing it aside and sitting back on his heels. He is once more calm and smiling his soft smile. The wind trickles past them, reprimanding his sudden turn of mood and he lets out a soft breath that only the wind would understand. ~I do not regret my words or actions Master.~ The wind trickles by again, this time with the human equivalent of an eye roll dancing on it.

Ethan felt the wind and watched as it rustled the trees and grass surrounding them. He found himself both afraid and exhilarated by the anger that he was sure it represented within Yu, and more amazed by how calm the youkai's voice sounded. [i]But there's no point in being angry. It changes nothing. I'll still be an in-valid. I'll still deserve it, if not for being born flawed, then for not somehow meeting my parents expectations. How could so many people be wrong? I am the problem.[/i] As much as he wanted to, he could not make himself believe Yu's words. One conversation could not erase eighteen years of conditioned beliefs.

But those hands touched him with a caring he did not believe anyone could feel for him. Those eyes, so fierce at the mere mention of his past, were so angered by the perceived injustice against him, so angered that it flurried the wind, more angered than he ever thought anyone could be on account of him. He wanted to melt into his newfound lover's arms, to surround himself with that love and never be forced to face the world again. He listened as Yu spoke again, and still the negative voices in his head fought the loving words.

[i]But I was wrong. I was wrong to fight them. They should be afraid of me. I'm more prone to violence. I'm less able to be useful to society.[/i] Those comforting hands were on his cheeks now. The breeze was calmer. He did not want to refute the love, but he felt he had to, to keep himself grounded, to keep himself from believing in the impossible. Ethan was startled by the kiss, and still more startled by the love and magic that he felt buried within it. Swept up in the moment, he returned his new lover's kiss with passion, allowing it to deepen. It was about thirty seconds before he finally pulled away, and his eyes looked downward again.

“You can't remove this evil from my life. Even if I don't deserve it, I was born to it. Society hates my kind. There are some out there that advocate euthanizing, or at least sterilizing, us all. Even though, to be honest, sterilization makes no sense. If they want everyone to be valids, they should just make the 'purification treatment' mandatory and free. Most in-valids don't want their children born to this, but they cannot afford the expensive genetic modifications. In a way, I'm better off. I was not born to that kind of poverty. I was just an accident. The treatments didn't take.” Ethan looked away. “I'm sorry, I'm babbling. It's just... I can't fight. Not physically. If I fought my parents, they would put me on the streets. If I fought the jerks again, they would find a way to make everything my fault and get me suspended or expelled... or worse, arrested. It's not like I don't already have enough marks on my school record. I can fight mentally, but Yu, I don't have the strength for that. Not anymore. And even if I did, there is more evil out there. The evil isn't just my parents, or my classmates, it's a society who believes that in-valids are worthless, except as lower-class laborers. It's policy-makers who are systematically making it more difficult to live as an in-valid. There's even talk of lowering the minimum wage for in-valid workers, and making it illegal for us to vote. And maybe they are right. I don't know. I want to believe that this is wrong. I do. But I can't fight any more. The only way to remove me from all of that evil is to remove me from this world.”

Quite pleased that the youth returned his kiss sincerely Yu feels far more calm and content, able to listen to the boy's words with a soft smile and not have his temper flare again. He even manages to smile a little wider when Ethan mentions that he can still fight. Though he is confused when he follows that up with saying he can't. Yu, easily confused by his new precious one, takes a moment to mill everything over, his fingers twisting idly around a lock of hair behind the youth's ear, before nodding faintly and kissing Ethan's forehead. “Just because there is evil the world around does not mean it need be accepted and tolerated.”

He rubs his cheek gently against Ethan's. “Do not let the whole world be your burden and simply press forward with your own life. Fight on for yourself, and from there grow stronger.” He flutters a final soft kiss over Ethan's lips before settling down next to him, cuddling into his side. “You do not have to take yourself away from this to find your peace. I am here with you now, and until you have your own strength back, I will be here to fight for you. I will always be here to help you find it, whenever you need me. . .” He purrs deeply. “I will keep you safe. I will not let the evils of this world beat you down any further, no matter what.” He smiles softly up at the boy. “I can tell you seem to have a distaste for such absolutes, however it is not the words, it is the conviction that matters.” Still purring he cuddles into Ethan's side, munching on the last bit f sandwich and the final swallows of milk.

Ethan grinned at the feel of Yu's cheek. He felt he could definitely get used to being so loved. And he was still amazed that he would have a chance to try.

“You're right. And your conviction is … astounding, and extremely kind, my friend, if misguided.” Ethan cuddled into Yu as well and finished his own sandwich and water. “I'll have to go home eventually,” he muttered. “I don't technically have a set curfew. Whether my parents are irritated with my being out late depends more on their mood. But still.”

Yu lets out a cooing noise before licking the youth's cheek. He knows that his convictions are what make him strong, for now at least, his love for Ethan being one of them, and he silently prays the youth will be able to one day see that they are not misguided. At the mention of needing to get home Yu tucks his litter away, to be disposed of later, and looks over at Ethan. “If it will keep you from pain, I think we should get you home sooner rather than later.”

Ethan looked up at the sky for a moment and shrugged. “I gave up trying to learn my parents' rules years ago. Nothing keeps me from the pain, not even following every single one. I realized by the time I was fourteen that they would find an excuse regardless of what I did. Sometimes I wander around town just to avoid going home because its... somehow easier when there's a relatively normal reason.”

On reflex a few growl clicks eek out of Yu's throat at the thought of Ethan being hurt unjustly, however a quick nuzzle against the boy's chin calms him down. “If it is so horrible there, then maybe you should simply not go back. . .” Yu would be perfectly content if Ethan agreed to it, however a part of him knows the boy is far from ready to simply drop it all and run off to somewhere where he may have a better life.

Ethan smiled weakly. "I wish, my friend. I have to go back. I have no where else to live. And as much as I'd like to leave the evils in my life behind, I still have many things I enjoy. For instance, I have a piano lesson tomorrow. Damn, I was supposed to practice tonight, but oh well. He's very understanding of my situation, and I have practiced a good bit in the past two weeks." Ethan smiled again. "Let's go back."

The youkai has a lot to say on the matter of being able to live anywhere as long as he's with him, however he does not want to get between Ethan and the few joys in his life so he holds his tongue. He knows he's spoiling the boy, or at least trying to, but as that is a very human concept he doesn't really care. Carefully he pulls away, smiling warmly. Once he's sure the youth has his litter and belongings Yu scoops him up and sets out for the boy's home. Traveling this time he has to make a few more turns than he did before, however there is still little risk that any human would notice anything. However at this late hour they only pass a few. Drawing up on the arch he circles the area once to check for humans before coming to a stop in the shadow of the archway. Settling the taller male down he snuggles up against his chest before taking his hand and beginning to walk in the direction of Ethan's house.

Ethan held on tight, still unaccustomed to the ride. He vaguely wondered about the physics of how Yu could dart so quickly all over town, but the truth was, he could not bring himself to really care. It was simply magic. Magic that defied everything he knew. But he was so in... insane attraction (never love, he would not dare), that he only wanted to be in this magical creature's arms, even if it made no sense.

Once they stopped he smiled and took Yu's hand. “I don't know if I'll ever get used to that,” he commented wryly, leaning down to kiss his new lover on the lips. Strolling along at a leisurely pace, they made their way back to Ethan's house. It was about 2 AM when they found themselves only half a block away, just out of view of anyone in Ethan's family who might be looking outside.

Yu is still purring from the kiss when they come to the street Ethan's house is on. His eyes dart this way and that, the cat shine making it look like his eyes glow in the dim early morning light. [i]'I wonder what it will be like to sleep in one of these modern beds. I have slept on an abandoned mattress once in a while, but this will be different. Then again, he may not want to share his bed, but in that case the floor is more than good enough. I like a firm surface as well as a plush one. As long as I get to stay near him. It feels really important to stay near him. . . .'[/i] His purr softens slightly as he looks up at Ethan. “I have not been inside a house proper in a long time, only as a cat on the hunt. This should be interesting. Should I put my feline parts away, or would it be better if I enter as a cat?”

Ethan was enjoying the walk immensely, just being with his new friend, listening to his purrs. He was not entirely sure he could get used to being in love with a sentient cat, but somehow, he did not mind terribly. Every strange or eccentric thing that the youkai did just seemed incredibly adorable. But when Yu spoke about entering, his eyes widened with something resembling fear or embarrassment.

“I wish you could. But it's not possible. I'm not allowed to bring friends home. Or even strays, not that you're a stray, but you know what I mean,” he pointed out quickly, looking away. After a moment, he turned back to those beautiful golden eyes, hoping that he would not see disappointment written in them.

The boy's response is not entirely unexpected and Yu is unphased by the sudden fight the youth seems to express. Yu's purr rises again and he leans in close to cuddle Ethan's arm before continuing to walk. “Okay. Maybe one day. Perhaps when they are not around.” He looks back up with a broad smile. “Perhaps I can hear you play some day. The piano is an instrument right? I play too. Not all that well I am sure, as I was never taught, however I once found an abandoned factory with a working Japanese harp in it. It was fun to learn to play, and it sounded pretty to my ears, but again, I do not know any songs or anything.” Before they reach Ethan's house he retracts his feline features, just in case they are awake and watching. The wind is good, but even it can not see inside homes.

Ethan wanted to melt in the face of that gorgeous smile, but he maintained his composure, just barely. “Perhaps. I have my lesson tomorrow, and no work. So perhaps we can find a piano afterwards where you can listen. I would love to hear you play your harp as well.” Almost impulsively, he leaned down to kiss the youkai again. “Will I see you in the later afternoon tomorrow?” he asked, his eyes wearing a pleading expression.

Yu is delighted to hear that he is willing to play for him and nods happily, knowing that to get that harp he will have to leave as soon as Ethan is asleep to be back in time to see him rise. [i]'I hid it long ago and go back often to make sure it is still in working order, however the place it is hidden is a ways from here'[/i] He returns the kiss, brushing his fingers through the youth's hair as he pulls away. “I will be here when you wake Ethan, if you so wish it.” He purrs happily, gazing up at that lovely face, the beauty within something no flesh can hide, and the only beauty that really matters.

“I would love to see you, but I will not ask you to plan your life around mine. That's not fair to you,” Ethan replied, scratching behind his lover's cat ears.

“If you would love to see me, then you shall.” He hums contentedly, leaning in to nuzzle Ethan's chest before stepping back. “Fair. . .Is such a human concept.” He murmurs softly before stepping into a deep shadow and shifting back into his feline form. Slipping out of the shadow he rubs against Ethan's leg before rearing up and headbutting him in the direction of his house. “I will see you in the morning Ethan.” He murmurs softly, repeating the rubbing and butting pattern until Ethan is on his way.

Ethan was, understandably, hesitant to leave his new friend and lover. No one in their right mind would actually want to walk away from that kind of love and into a house where abuse was commonplace. But Ethan was logical at heart, and he knew that Yu was right to push him. Sighing, he waved goodbye and entered his house, silently fearing what was to come.

Yu purrs loudly, following him a few steps before pausing and taking a seat, watching him vanish indoors. Once the door is closed he bounds around the house, sniffing at it intently until he locates Ethan's room on the second floor. Darting up a tree he waits, watching through the window until he's sure the youth is asleep. Once he is positive, the light energy in the room in front of him calm and gentle, he leaps from the tree and becomes nothing more than a blur. He races over land, water, and at points even seems to take to the sky in long bounding leaps, his sleek form little more that a slight movement in the corner of a human's eye, if they notice him at all. He races far and fast and in a matter of hours he comes to a stop in a distant land, the local clocks reading noon.

His sleek form slinks into town quickly, racing past feet and vehicles, drawing a little attention now that humans can actually see him. He is after all a large feline, and one not common to the area. In fact, his breed isn't really common anywhere any more. While they are not extinct, most non domestic animals are now in reserves around the world. Yu however deflects suspicion with a simple charm that plants a little thought in their head that they've seen him before. He races through town, finally spotting his goal and with a sharp turn he enters one of those abandoned part of of the major cities that no one cares to tear down for some reason.

A kitty smile crosses his lips as he leaps through a crack in the boards covering the windows of an old boarded up school house. The halls are dist and other than the crack he uses all the entrances are still covered. [i]'Good, that means it should still be here. I checked on it last week, but I have had problems with kids before'[/i] In the basement, locked inside the bomb shelter, he finds his instrument. The lock only responds to him, however now that he is retrieving the item he decides to leave the door open for now. The harp is inside a long wooden box, fitted with straps so he can wear the box on his back like a backpack. The harp is as long as he is from the tip of his nose to the tip of his tail so it is a little awkward to carry, but the youkai manages.

It takes a little work to get out of the building but once outside he has to take it slow, keeping out of sight. An unusual cat is one thing. And unusual cat with a long wooden box strapped to it's back is completely different and much harder to cover up. It takes him thirty minutes just to get out of town but once he's in the clear he's off, slightly slower than usual due to his load. Following the sun he reaches the edge of Ethan's home town a bit before sunrise and carefully worms his way through the city in the pre-dawn light. He does not have much time to hide the box, however he knows the town well and by the time Ethan leaves his house Yu is waiting across the street in feline form, the instrument tucked away in a safe corner of the metropolis.

With a happy yowl he bounds up to the youth, rubbing firmly against his legs and purring loudly. He laces through them, rearing up to lick at Ethan’s hands every so often, expressing his joy thoroughly before planting his paws on the boy's waist and sniffing at him, trying to detect what his time away was like, from what he ate, to any lingering damage should he have been harmed.

Ethan stumbled out of his house the next morning. The altercation had only just occurred an hour prior, so the bruises had not yet formed. Yu would start to smell several spots of blood pooling under the skin on his back, torso, and arms, and few cuts on his face. There would also be a lingering smell of fear and sadness. The worst of the visible injuries was a nasty burn across his cheek.

The youth had been able to sneak into bed, but the next morning, he had suffered for coming home so late. But as soon as he saw the youkai, he smiled and stood up straight, trying not to walk as though he was in pain. He knelt and scratched the cat's ears as though nothing was wrong, only the slight wincing as he moved showing just how much pain he was in.

“I'm glad to see you again, my friend,” Ethan greeted kindly.

The feline whines gently, the wounds bothering him greatly. Without hesitation, as soon as Ethan's close enough, he shifts in close and begins clearing the wounds from his face. [i]'I know he does not want to be suspicious, however these. . .'[/i] He clings carefully to Ethan’s clothes so he can't pull away and once he's finishes he rubs his furry face against Ethan's once before dropping and turning past him, his flaring silver gaze on the youth's house. The growl in his throat sounds more like a tigers than anything else and his small kitty claws actually sink into the cement as his heckles rise in anger. The wind picks up, though it does not whip around him as it did in the forest, knowing better than to draw such attention within the city. It tries to calm him, the gentle whispers on it both comforting, and understanding.

Ethan tried carefully to pull away, but the youkai held on with clear intention. “They'll be suspicious,” he muttered. “Burns don't heal that quickly. But perhaps they will think that it was not as bad as it looked. Come on. I have to get to school,” he pointed out, walking ahead. “Thank you for healing it, though.” He smiled again. “There's no need to be angry on my behalf, my friend. I'm fine.”

The growl is still crackling in his throat as he looks over his shoulder towards the human. As it is morning and there are people leaving their houses up and down the block he can not reply. Instead he glances back at the house and decides to never again leave him alone in the evening. [i]'I may not be able to subdue them, however I can trickle some calm into the house, perhaps relax them enough to not attack as often. . .I really wish he would let me just take him from this awful place. . .'[/i] he glow fades from his eyes and he turns on the spot, dashing a bit so he is alongside Ethan before dropping into a trot to keep up with him. His tail curls up to coils around Ethan's wrist every so often as they walk along. When they reach a point where the area is clear enough he whispers softly, “My rage is just little one.” He rubs against Ethan's leg once before adding on, “So, what is planned today?”

Ethan smiled. “Thankfully, I don't have work today. But I have my lesson, and then I have some Calculus studying that I need to do before my test. The test is Monday, but I should start studying tonight. Could you... please do me a big favor? My right wrist is sprained. I write with my left, but I don't want to have to cancel my lesson over it.”

The cat whines again, stepping in front of Ethan and forcing Ethan to change direction, Yu leads him towards a less inhabited alley. Once he's sure no one's around he shifts into his normally humanoid form, his tail lashing back and forth worriedly. Gently he reaches down and takes Ethan's hand into both of his own. Slipping his fingers over the wounded wrist he gasps Ethan's arm gently with one hand, his other slipping gently into the boys, and with a soft worried expression he leans in and drags his tongue over the wounded joint. The magic pours from his tongue, delving deep, and mending the injury completely in less than a minute. When he is done he runs a hand over Ethan's chest, gently enough that the wounds would not be aggravated. He looks at Ethan with soft pleading eyes, a faint whine in the back of his throat as his ears droop down sadly.

“Thank you. That feels much better,” Ethan commented as he hugged Yu, gazing into those pleading eyes that he somehow already understood. “And no. I can't have you heal the others. My parents won't see them, but Adam promised that he would help me with my bandages tonight. My face is one thing, but it will look far too suspicious if they are all gone. I don't have an explanation for superhuman regeneration, and I don't know where the questions could go. The others that you healed... hopefully Adam will assume that they just healed on their own over time. I should have thought about that before. I'm sorry.”

Yu lets out another worried noise and nuzzles against Ethan's chin, careful to avoid his wounds as he leans in. “Every moment of pain you endure saddens me.” He leans back, looking deep into Ethan's eyes. “I can not wait for the day I can heal you without your worry. . .And even more for the day when the pain stops altogether.” Reaching up he brushes his fingers over Ethan's cheek and gives him a kiss before converting back to his animal form. “Even if you do not see that day ever coming, I will not stop looking forward to it young one.” He murmurs softly, ready to head out once more.

Ethan grimaced slightly, putting on a brave face for his friend. “I'm not in that much pain. And if I could explain the healing, I would let you do it. But somehow I know that I can't risk exposing your existence. Besides, it's not their fault. They are under a lot of stress, as are most valids. There is a lot of pressure to succeed. I think … firmly punishing me is their way of handling the pressure. And besides, it's only right. I was late last night. I flagrantly ignored their wishes. And I would do it again. It was worth it to spend the evening with you.” He beamed down at his new friend. It didn't matter that he was talking to a cat, no one on the street paid much attention.

Yu continues looking forward as they walk, unable to think of anything to say to Ethan he's not already said before. [i]'Nothing I say seems to get through. I tell him this is all wrong, and he seems determined not to believe me in that. He accepts my affection, but he seems almost unable to see that he is worth for more than what he gives himself credit for. . .'[/i] Despite having decided not to say anything, next chance he gets he murmurs, “There is no excuse for your abuse Ethan.” A moment later a person passes by, rounding a corner. She looks at Yu and for a moment seems confused, but an instant later she looks away with an almost dreamy look on her face. [i]'Well, the charm is working properly still'[/i] He muses.

[i]'I'm an in-valid. That's excuse enough... isn't it?'[/i] Ethan thought. But there was no reason to upset the youkai further. They walked until they reached Ethan's school, and the young man could not help but smirk as he noticed the bullies from the other day walk towards him, only to turn in the other direction when they noticed the cat nearby. [i]They will probably get me during school though,[/i] he thought. But that was a problem for later on. For now, he enjoyed the company of his friend.

“Goodbye. I wish you could join me. I really hate it in there sometimes,” Ethan commented, kneeling down to hug his feline companion.

Letting out a hiss at the sight of the bullies he calms down as they turn away. He himself turns into the hug, rubbing his face against Ethan's over and over, leaving little scent trails on his skin, making him as his. [i]'This will help me track him today. I can smell him well enough, however I can pinpoint him better with a bit of me on him'[/i] The trails are undetectable to humans and Ethan would not feel a thing, however to Yu it would be like Ethan was walking around with big flashing neon lights on his face. Before Ethan pulls back Yu licks his ears a few times his paws coming up to press on his chin. He looks very much like a cat trying to get a treat, though that is not his intent. He simply wishes to show his affection the best he can in this form.

Ethan had never been terribly fond of cats. He had always been more of a dog person. But now, that did not matter. He accepted his friend for who he was, fur and all. He enjoyed the feeling of that fur on his face, even though he did not realize its purpose, and he petted Yu for a few strokes before standing and walking towards the school.

Yu watches Ethan go. Once he is out of sight he begins slinking around the school, his stealth in full swing as he stalks as close as he can to Ethan's current location. Throughout the day he tracks the youth, climbing and leaping to various places outside the school to make sure he's as close as can be. Through every crack he can find he sends his magic to sooth those around Ethan, doing all he can to keep them from becoming violent. The day goes by quickly for the youkai, with so much activity interspersed with long resting periods he is quite keyed up and ready to play with Ethan once he exits. [i]'I know he has other things to do, but perhaps I can convince him to study outside so I can sit with him. I recall study needing quiet, and I can be quiet, and provide comfort at the same time. . .'[/i] Bounding around to the entrance he comes out of “Stealth Mode” and takes a seat in the middle of the yard to wait for his new friend.

Ethan strode out of the school, eyes darting around as if expecting an attack. The strangeness of the day set him on edge. He'd been insulted, pushed around slightly, but a few times that it seemed like one of his classmates wanted to hit him, the person had somehow lost interest.

He grinned at Yu and motioned for him to follow, hoping that the youkai would understand that he wanted them to find a quieter place where they could speak freely.

As soon as Ethan spots him Yu stands, his ears and tail standing straight up as he stares at the human intently. He bounds up to the youth and plays around his legs before setting up a steady pace beside him, following along side happily. He purrs loudly, bounding around Ethan every once in a while playfully as he waits until the boy has brings them wherever he is leading.

Ethan brought them to a secluded spot by a river. There were some trees nearby that would hide Yu and allow him to transform back and forth as he wished. Smiling, he sat down at them.

“We can talk until my piano lesson. It's in an hour. I wouldn't have much time to make it over to one of the places I practice anyway, and since my teacher is giving lessons right now, I can't practice on her piano. He lives just a half mile from here, in that neighborhood we passed.”

They quickly slip to a greener part of the city and Yu is delighted at the sight of the water running through the area. As soon as he spots the forest he bounds over, then races back out in his fully human form. In the daylight he has to be more careful. He comes to a sudden halt right next to Ethan and instead of pouncing on him like he wants to, he hugs him tenderly, propping himself up on his toes to kiss the youth gently. He lets his magic pour into Ethan, brushing over his wounds gently from the inside in a soft attempt to east the pain. He can feel it easing slightly, but without direct contact he can not do much.

Pulling back he rubs against the only wound free part of his lover, nuzzling under his chin, nipping at it playfully before pulling back and twirling. The breeze dances about them happily, glad that Yu is so excited right now. Coming up to the bank amid his twirls he wonders just why there are fish in the river. He does not know that it is stocked regularly so that rich city goers can fish without having to leave town and go “Into the wilderness”. He looks back at Ethan and motions him over. “Mind if I grab something to eat real quick?” he murmurs softly, looking up at Ethan with sparkling blue eyes.

Ethan could not help but giggle and beam at Yu's excitement, not to mention his wonderful affection. He was in pain from the wounds, but it was primarily when he moved, and now he felt even that pain ease. It was pleasant, and for a moment, made him wish he could allow his new lover to heal them completely. But even if Yu was unconcerned with possibly revealing himself, Ethan was concerned with protecting him.

“Of course you can. Why would an immortal and powerful shapeshifter need my permission?” he replied, but his tone made it clear that he was only joking with the youkai.

Humming happily he smiles at his lover before dissolving his clothing and slipping into the water. Carefully he changes just enough that he has claws then he becomes very still. He watches the water intently, not moving a muscle other than the ones controlling his eyes. Not until he strikes. With a strike like a snake he tears a fish out of the water, tossing it up on the bank flopping and wriggling. Leaping from the water he dashes it quickly against a rock before scaling it with his claws. Once that job is done he puts his claws away and sits, still naked, on the grass to enjoy his meal.

Ethan sat down watched Yu intently, enjoying the concentrated look on his face and his lightning movements. Though he was embarrassed to admit it, he was also not blind to his newfound lover's beautiful pale skin, or his perfectly lean muscles, or his knee-length silver and black hair that seemed to be immune to tangles or any form of imperfection. He was, for some reason, afraid to touch his friend while he was naked, so he just continued admiring the sight.

Yu coos softly, finishing removing the innards and tossing them in the water for the other fish. Without thinking much of it he scoots over and leans into Ethan’s side as he begins eating, humming softly. “This is a nice place.” He murmurs, looking up at Ethan happily, oblivious to his fear.

Ethan bit his lip, his cheeks turning red with embarrassment. He enjoyed the feeling of Yu's bare skin against his, much more than he strictly should have, in his own opinion. “Yes, it is. I like to study here sometimes, although it can be hard to see. Would it be alright if I... put my arm around your shoulders?” the virginal young man asked tentatively.

Yu nods in response, shifting in a little closer to make it easier on the youth. “I would like to spend as much time as possible with you, and I planned on asking if you would mind studying outside so I could do just that.” He looks up with shiny eyes. “Would you. . . Be willing to study out here tonight? I can provide light. And we can get you home on time tonight, perhaps avoid more. . .” He runs the backs of his fingers over Ethan's shirt, a sad expression on his face.

"If you can provide light, then I can make it work. But I need a good bit of light to read without getting too tired," Ethan replied, smiling as he put his arm around his friend. "But don't worry about getting me home. There's no way to avoid the abuse. This morning it was because I came home late. Last week it was because I accidentally burned my mom's eggs when cooking breakfast. When grades come out, it's because my grades aren't very good. There's always some kind of reason, big or small. Even back when I followed all the rules, it toned things down, not removed them completely. So I stopped trying. Don't worry so much about me, Yu. I'm used to it."

Yu glares in the direction of Ethan's house, his eyes flashing and a growl pouring from his lips. “Those fools do not deserve you. . .” he says in a hiss before quickly gulping down the rest of his fish. Once his fingers are licked clean he smiles up at Ethan, that slightly dreamy look on his face he tends to wear. “I can make good light, I promise.” Licking Ethan's cheek, followed by his own lips, he turns slightly and stretches his torso out across the boy's lap, his arms crossing over Ethan's opposite leg, his head coming to rest atop them as he snuggles in comfortably.

Ethan had to ignore the youkai's words, because as much as he wanted to, he could not make himself believe them, not quite yet. He giggled at the way the youkai licked him and then just lay across his lap, like the fact that he was naked did not even occur to him.

“You are very handsome,” he commented absentmindedly, as he casually ran his fingers through the youkai's perfect hair. “You look so innocent there. For a moment, I could almost forget that you have claws that can cut through cement.” He stopped for a second. “I'm sorry, I'm rambling. I probably should work on repairing that filter between thoughts and spoken words.”

Yu purrs loudly, shaking his head slightly. “No, I like it when you speak truthfully. It is comforting. . .” He turns his head just far enough to see Ethan, not wanting to dislodge the petting fingers. “You are very lovely too Ethan, and I am honored I am pleasing to your gaze. He smiles warmly up at the human, though his mouth is mostly hidden. Looking at his nails he goes back to simply purring, enjoying the pets. He nibbles his knuckle a bit before yawning and stretching, flopping a little more limply over the boy's lap.

Ethan grinned down at his friend. “Thank you. I appreciate the compliment,” he replied, continuing to pet his head, and allowing his fingers to move down his lover's spine. “For once, I'm very glad that I'm not a valid.”

Yu arches happily into the touch, his purrs deepening. He rubs his shoulder against Ethan's middle as he cuddles in closer. A strange question crosses his mind and it simply slips out before he thinks about it much. “Do you think you would not care for me as you do were you a valid?” Yu is no fool, he knows that if Ethan was a valid his life would likely be vastly different, but a part of him wonders if it's only his hard life that has lead him to care for the youkai, or at least if he thinks that, or if he believes that maybe no matter what he would like the youkai. [i]'I know he may not have caught my attention so much if he were not wounded so, however I doubt very much that this draw. . .No, know this draw within me has nothing to do with the wounds. . .'[/i]

“Because the ability to be attracted to one of the same sex is engineered out of 99% of valids. And society frowns upon it, associates it with in-valid uncleanliness. It's all a load of bullshit, of course. But if my parents found out, they would hate me. Anyway, if I were a valid, I might not be able to like you, at least not romantically. So, for once, I'm glad that i'm not. Besides, if I were a valid, you might have never had cause to defend me the other day, and you might have never revealed yourself to me. That would be very sad,” Ethan replied. He had no idea how different he would be as a valid, or if he would have accepted Yu's friendship. He hoped he would have, but he was not blind to the influence of his need for companionship, a need largely unfulfilled thanks to his social status.

The youkai rolls on his back to listen, his arms crossed over his stomach, and he gazes gently up at the youth. [i]'Well, that feels very odd. Youkai have noted this aversion to non offspring producing relationships in human history for a long time now, but to actually mess with your insides to take it out? That is if I recall this “genetic” thing properly. Humans are weird. . .'[/i] Still purring, though a little quieter now, he replies softly, “I can not speak on that first point, as I know little of this “Genetics”, however I know that I would have come to you, no matter what. . .” He smiles, ribbing his head against the leg his head’s resting on. “I can feel it,” he takes Ethan's hand and places it over the middle of his bare chest, “right in here. My draw to you has nothing to do with your pain. It is something altogether. . .Different. . . .” His purr gets louder again, his fingers tracing over the back of Ethan's hand, which still rests on his chest. “It may have been under different circumstances, but I still would have come. . .”

Ethan blushed slightly, enjoying the feel of Yu's touch. “I am drawn to you as well, I think. Even beyond my innate desire to love and be loved.” His fingers continued tracing through the youkai's hair and wandering across his chest. “I am fortunate to share this time with you. I only hope I can be somewhat worthy of it.”

Yu begins to purr deeply, the duel stimuli along with his strong feelings for the youth cause his body to respond. He does not even really notice, it feeling very natural. His only real response to the arousal rushing through him is to turn his head so he can bury his face in Ethan’s cloth covered stomach. When he'd flipped he'd slid down a bit so he is no longer laying across Ethan's lap, instead his had is settles on his nearest thigh. His left arm comes up to stroke over the boy's back while his hand, still atop Ethan's slides back and forth across his wrist appreciatively. [i]'This feels nice. I can feel, something. Something deep inside here. There is something. . .Here. . . Between us. . .'[/i]

Ethan glanced down and noticed Yu's body responding, but he did not acknowledge it, except to continue what he was already doing. His face turned a bright red, because he knew that he was also quite aroused, though it was less obvious. Having never been so sensual with another person before, he had no idea how to proceed, but he tried to remind himself that that did not particularly matter. It was far more important just to enjoy the companionship of a kind lover, than to be concerned with anything else.

They sat like that for about half an hour before Ethan spoke again. “I will have to go to my lesson soon,” he pointed out. “I'm supposed to be there in twenty minutes. So we still have a bit of time.”

The scent of arousal rolling off the boy makes Yu smile, happy that he is somehow pleasing the youth and not just enjoying their moment together all by his lonesome. [i]'Well, at least I know I appeal to him that way. It makes me happy to know that he can feel this peaceful thrill too, here, together with me'[/i] The minutes tick by and the two simply enjoy what it is to be so comfortable with one another. Yu contemplates asking if Ethan would like to do more, but after thinking on it a moment he realizes that even if they had the time, that would probably be rushing things in the human's eyes. [i]'I do not want to pressure him, so I will wait for now. This is enough for now. . .'[/i] He opens his eyes and gazes up at the boy, a gently look in his eyes. [i]'That and. . .He said he would not want to make a life commitment so soon, and with how I feel, that would seal my soul to his. . .'[/i]

His purr becomes a hum as he converts back to full human on the inside and with a smile he slowly sits up. Leaning in he rests against the boys side, his hand sliding up Ethan's back until it reaches his neck. There it teases the hair and skin, enjoying the feel of it beneath his fingers. “This lesson, for music, you enjoy it. We should go soon then.” He gazes up at Ethan brightly and honestly. “I would never dream of making you miss even a moment of the things that make you happy in this world. . .”

Ethan grinned cutely at the way Yu teased his hair and skin, enjoying the loving touch. “You are one of the things that makes me happiest,” he replied honestly, leaning in to kiss his new lover on the cheek. But still, he stood and brushed himself off.

He smiles so wide at Ethan's statement that his eyes slide close and he returns the kiss with a lick before standing as well. Stretching and flexing he gets ready to walk with Ethan to his lesson in his human form, bouncing on the balls of his feet. “You make me happy too Ethan.” he murmurs, leaning up to brush his lips over the human's in a gentle kiss. Stepping back he remains on the balls of his feet, taking Ethan's hand as he waits to see where this teacher lives. The wind plays across his bare flesh gently, letting him know that there are humans a few blocks away.

Ethan bit his lip, smiling a little in a combination of love and embarrassment.

“As... pleasing... as your form is, you might want to magic some clothes back on before walking me to my lesson. We wouldn't want you to get arrested for indecent exposure or anything. Besides, I would hate to freak out my teacher's wife,” Ethan pointed out, caught between being amused and afraid to criticize his friend.

Looking down at his figure Yu makes an odd noise in the back of his throat. Looking back up at Ethan he asks, “What is indecent exposure?” As he says these words his clothing appears with a flapping rustling noise, looking very much as if it was simply blown on by the wind before settling in it's usual hanging fashion. His head tilts cutely to the side, his eyes wide and curious. “And why would she freak out? I have observed that most older females enjoy the sight of a young virile male body.”

“First of all, how can you be hundreds of years old, observing humanity for all that time, and not know these things?” Ethan asked curiously.

Yu's head tilts in the other direction. “Well, I normally only hear snippets of conversation, and if it does not make sense, I move on, and on the other hand, humans are a very contradictory species where they on one hand demonize nudity while on the other it seems to be something they pursue in another without reserve.”

Ethan could not very well argue with that, so he gave the best explanation he could think of. “Indecent exposure is a term for a law that says people can't walk around with their genitals hanging about in public,” the youth replied, taking Yu's hand. “As far as why she would freak out, that has to do with the same source as the indecent exposure law. Humans have a very weird relationship with sexuality. In public, it's largely demonized, except when it's commercialized. In private, its celebrated. It's something almost everyone desires but no one wants to admit they desire.”

The youkai understands the point about law and decides that only when alone with Ethan outside should he be nude, least he get the boy in trouble. As to the rest, there is a word he does not recognize however he get's the crux of the issue. He smiles at Ethan takes his other hand into his own so they are now forming a kind of bridge with their arms. “So in short, humans are weird and not truthful with themselves?”

“Exactly,” the youth replied, unable to stop grinning. “And now to be true to myself, if I may,” he joked, just before pulling Yu into a deep embrace, complete with a kiss. He let go of one hand so that they could continue walking, but he could not entirely take his eyes off of his lover.

Yu chuckles, letting himself be swept into Ethan's arms, returning the embrace tenderly. His body is still keyed up, however for now he ignores it and as they move out of the embrace he hums happily. His thumb runs slowly back and forth across the back of Ethan's hand as they walk, the linked hands swinging slightly in time with their steps. He enjoys the attention from the youth and moves in close to cuddle his arm whenever they have to stop. However a thought drifts around into the front of his mind and he wonders if the displays may get Ethan in trouble. [i]'He said such romances are illegal, so is this dangerous for him?'[/i] He shrugs it off however, enjoying the closeness and knowing that he would simply rescue the youth should anything happen to him.

Of course, Ethan knew full well that this romance was illegal, but he could not bring himself to care. He was too in love, too lost in the joy and the hormones. What did it matter if he was caught? Being alive as an in-valid was practically illegal, so what did it matter if he wound up in prison as well?

He did come to his senses and let go of Yu's hand as they reached a busier section of the in-valid neighborhood, and simply walked with him until they reached his piano teacher's house. They were much less likely to get reported by fellow in-valids, but there was still no need for unnecessary risk.

When Ethan lets go of his hand Yu lets out a little whine, however he's not really upset. He knows Ethan, for the most part, is sensible and isn't doing it because he doesn't like holding hands. He looks around at all the people, feeling odd that they are all looking at him with different eyes than he's grown use to. [i]'For so long I was simply a cat. The gaze you cast towards an animal is much different than one you cast at another sentient being'[/i] Once they are out of the hustle and bustle he begins looking at other things, the houses looking different at this particular vantage point. He moves in a little closer to Ethan, trying to pick out which house they are going to by the direction of his gaze.

Just before they reached his teacher's house, Ethan looked towards it. It was a small one-bedroom house where the man lived with his wife, made of brick. It was unassuming, but kept in good repair, unlike several of the houses in this neighborhood, many of them abandoned.

Ethan turned to the youkai and embraced him in a hug, one that could be mistaken for brotherly friendship if anyone gave a second glance. “I'll see you in an hour then?” he asked, hoping that Yu would be willing to wait for him.

Spotting the quaint little house Yu smiles warmly, liking the feel of the place. A moment later however he finds himself once more in a warm hug and coos happily, returning it. “I will be here when you are finished, however I would like to wait to hear you play so I will run some errands while you are busy.” He glances at the home. “This feels safe here. . .There is something gentle about this place. . .” He nuzzles against Ethan's chin before stepping away slightly. He smiles warmly, a faint hum in the back of his throat. “I will wait to hear you play until you feel you are ready to play for me, and not simply me overhearing it through the walls.” he murmurs softly.

"You can listen through the walls if you like, but I'd rather you wait until I can perform a concert for you specifically," the youth replied as he walked off towards the house.

[i]'I thought so'[/i] He muses, watching the youth out of sight. Once he is gone Yu turns on his heel and picks a secluded little alcove beside a building to change into his feline form. [i]'I think, I want to try and help if I can'[/i] Quick as could be he races through town until he reaches the rich neighborhood. Careful not to be seen by the rich valids that live in the area, they far less tolerant of strays, he begins searching their trash for a suitable receptacle for his plan. In no time at all he finds a fine looking leather bag with a clasp, looking a lot like an ancient doctor's bag but with a bit more class an finery. The only mar on it is some slight wearing to the metal clasps and a faint scuff in the black leather along the bottom of the bag.

Looping the handles over his shoulders like some malformed backpack he takes off to one of his hidy holes in town where no humans go, or at least have not gone for at lease fifty years by his reckoning, and tucks it away, casting a kind of concealment spell on the vines growing nearby so they cover the spot. Checking the sky he notes it's still thirty minutes until the hour is up, but as he wants to get back early he gives himself only twenty to begin his new self appointed task. The twenty minutes fly by and by the time he is back outside the house he feels very satisfied at his fruitful start. [i]'That went well. I can not wait to show Ethan what I have done, though I think I will wait until he needs it'[/i] Purring he slips into the same alcove, checks the wind,t hen transforms. Slipping to the spot where Ethan left him he wait quietly for his lover to emerge.

An hour later, Ethan finished his lesson, shook hands with his teacher, and left the house. He was unsurprised to see Yu waiting for him, but it still made him grin. He whispered to his friend, “I hope you had fun with whatever you were doing.”

Yu bounds over happily, grinning at what Ethan said before throwing his arms gentling arounf the boy's neck, or best he can from his shorter vantage point. He is still very careful of the wounds, but his joy at seeing the boy no worse for wear fills him with a happiness he's not felt in some time. “It was fun enough, but this is better.” He whispers sweetly into the youth's ear. Carefully he pulls back, smiling up at Ethan as he waits for whatever is next on the list of things to do today.

Ethan could not help but grin brightly. “How about a meal, then some study time, and then we can practice for a while, and then some more studying before bed?” he asked, before almost immediately groaning. “Wow, I sound like the worst date ever, don't I. Here I am with an immortal, powerful, magical, attractive, kind, wonderful lover, and my idea for something to do is 'eat, study, practice, and more study. I'm sorry, my dear. I live a very boring life.”

“It does not matter what we are doing, what matters is that we will be doing them together.” Yu says brightly, honesty shiny out of every pore even after such a cheesy line. He does not know that line was made of cheese, or even that it was a line, all he knows is that is how he feels and to that end he smiles warmly and asks sweetly, “Where shall we eat today? Perhaps that place with your friend. You could let him know something good came from his mistake?”

As cheesy as the line was, Ethan knew it was not intended as such, and he found it astoundingly sweet. “That sounds nice. I was a little stupid, and a little harsh with him yesterday. Besides, we will be safe in public there. It's pretty far from here though. But I don't mind the walk if you don't,” Ethan replied, beaming at his new lover.

Humming happily Yu takes Ethan's hand and smiles. “I do not mind walking.” he murmurs softly, his mental map of the city telling him which direction to head in. “He seemed delighted by your romantic feeling towards me, so, do you think he will be happier for you now?”

“Yeah, he will be delighted. He hates seeing what I deal with at home and at school. So, I think he just liked seeing me so happy. As far as the legality issue, well, he's not one to care about that any more than I am,” Ethan replied as they walked. “And I can apologize for overreacting so badly. I was just embarrassed because I like you so much. I've never really felt this strongly for anyone before.”

“Humans are silly, however that is one thing I love about all of you. It is what makes you all different that makes you so interesting and adorable.” he coos softly, careful to speak so no one can overhear. “He sounds like a good friend, however I don't see you hanging around with one another much anymore, why is that?" he asks curiously, watching the eyes around them for any sign there may be a problem.

“We both got wrapped up in our own lives. I have school, the classes I care about anyway, a job, piano, and various robotics and hacking projects. He helps his parents run their restaurant in addition to school and a nice girlfriend. We just got very busy, but it doesn't stop us from being good friends,” the youth replied as they walked. Ethan also watched the eyes around them, but beyond a few looks because of Yu's strange clothing, they were mostly ignored. After all, they just looked like two friends talking. He reminded himself to ask Yu about the kimono. Though, honestly, the youkai did not seem terribly concerned about blending in with humans or avoiding unwanted attention.Given that Ethan could already anticipate the dangers to Yu and his kind if the youkai were discovered, he was rather confused by the blasé attitude his lover seemed to have about it.

Yu nods and smiles, glad that the two are still close friends despite the distance between them. [i]'Lives can take such divergent paths from one another, and maintaining relations through the distance is difficult. I use to be rather close to my grandfather, but now. . . I do not think I have seen him in a few hundred years. . .'[/i] They eyes around them seem more curious and in some cases stunned than anything else, allowing the youkai to relax. He knows, partially, why they stare, his clothing and hair being unusual, but at the same time he is a little confused by it himself.

[i]'I have seen humans wear the oddest things through the years, many times drawing on history to come up with a new look. What I am wearing may be ancient, however it is something I have seen in the past ten years by at least a hundred humans. Perhaps not all in the same place, and of course not this exact design, it having been modified to fit this era as far as fabrics go, however I find it strange that they are so fascinated by what should be nothing more than someone with an odd taste in clothes'[/i] He shrugs, bringing his mind back to the young man at his side. “It is good you are still good friends. That makes me happy for you.” He hums softly, looking at the road ahead of them with a distant deep thought expression. “Perhaps the chicken one today. I do like a good bird, even if it is cold. . .”

“I'll get you whatever you want. Nothing there is that expensive, and even if it were, I'd rather spend what money I have on you than anything else,” Ethan replied shyly, smiling meekly at his new friend and taking his hand. “As far as it being cold, you can have them toasted, if you like.”

Yu hums happily, hearing Ethan's words despite being lost in thought. Nuzzling under his chin with his head he smiles warmly, You really are sweet young one. I have not seen such kindness in one your age for a long time. . .'[/i] Which is the truth. Most people who show any kindness in his travels are either elderly, or very young. He's always wondered what it is about the in between that seems to take away the innate kindness most seem to be born with, only to give it back later in life, and only for some. He hold Ethan's hand firmly but gently,. Their arms swaying slightly as they walk. “Toasted? Can chicken fir in a toaster?” He's seen toasters before, in dumps mostly, but from what he's seen, meat would not fair well in one.

"This is a different kind of toaster. It's like a really fast oven. It melts the cheese and heats the sandwich. It's actually really tasty. And I'm not that kind. I'm just smitten with how wonderful you are, swept up in emotions more powerful than I've felt in a long time. It's like I'm... meant to be with you. But that's crazy. It's just the hormones talking,” Ethan said thoughtfully.

Nodding at the description, understanding as he knows what an oven it, it makes sense that one that works quickly would toast something. “You are not crazy Ethan. I can not speak to hormones, though I have them as well but mine are different, I an advise that you not dismiss such thoughts simply because they do not make sense for you now, or go against what you know.” He smiles up at the youth. “As you have learned, there are things in this world that are different from what you know, myself included, and dismissing anything at this point may lock doors for you that lead to places of even greater joy.” They are getting a few more looks now, the press of bodies as they pass through the middle of town a little more stifling, however Yu keeps his focus shifting, making sure there are no threats to his lover nearby.

“I know, my friend. I know. There's a part of me that wants to run in the other direction, terrified of all of this change. I didn't know creatures, individuals I mean, like you existed until just a few days ago, and now I'm in love with you. It's a lot of change, and it's terrifying. But I love it. And to hide from it would be to shut myself off from one of the happiest feelings I've ever known, and to hurt you as well. I won't do that, even if I fear that I am just a crazy teenager,” Ethan replied, before planting gentle kisses on the man's neck. That gained a few more extremely disapproving looks from the passerby, but no one actually said anything to admonish them.

The youkai is left to wonder at how one could be so torn by good feelings, seeming to scatter all of their emotions is several different directions rather than acting as a grounding force like it does with him. He giggles lightly at the feeling of lips on his neck, his teeth flashing at the looks they received. No one actually did anything other than glare, however Yu remains alert as ever, He does spare a moment as they finish crossing a street to look up at the human and smile brightly saying, “I love you too Ethan.”

The color drained from Ethan's face at hearing the reply. [i]'I love you too... I didn't- Wait. I did. Damnit. I... wasn't thinking. But I don't want to confuse or upset him. I misspoke. I could come to love him. I'm deeply attracted to him, and I'm flattered by his kindness. But I can't be so foolish and bold as to say I love him. I just misspoke,'[/i] Ethan thought, calming himself as they walked. [i]'I'm crazy. But if this is crazy, I'm not entirely sure I want to be sane.'[/i]

Yu slows, blinking slowly as he feels the heartbeat in his palm become irregular. After a moment of listening he can even hear Ethan's heartbeat changing over the din around them. [i]'That is not a good change. I know that sound, and it is not a pleasant one'[/i] It is easy to see Ethan growing pale and a faint whine comes from the back of his throat. Gently he pulls the human out of the flow of bodies into a small alleyway, concern written all across his face. “Ethan, what is wrong? Your heart, it sounds pained, and your face. . .” He reaches up, brushing his free hand over a pale cheek.

“Nothing, my friend,” Ethan replied. “I just... I misspoke when I said I was in love with you. I feel as though I am. I want to say I am. But the truth is, I've never been in love before. I have nothing to compare it to. I barely understand the other types of love, much less romantic love. When you said you loved me too, I was upset for a moment because I didn't mean to give you the wrong idea. I like you a lot, and I feel as though I will likely come to love you. But I can't assume I do just yet. I just don't want to hurt you by expressing that. Clearly, my human emotions are much more conflicted than yours,” Ethan replied, looking down at his feet.

Listening with a gentle look on his face Yu waits until Ethan is does talking before slipping his hand out of the youth's, only to slide it up to cup Ethan's other cheek. Carefully he presses in close and gives the boy a sweet, feather soft kiss on the lips before pulling back and repeating the gesture on his forehead. He is not offended by Ethan's thoughts, as it is true, human hearts work differently, however he feels he must make that fact abundantly clear, least he hurt or drive away the delicate boy. Looking up at Ethan's face, his eyes nearly closed, he speaks softly in a hushed whisper. “I am not hurt that you do not share my conviction, as I know our races are different. Such things I take for granted with my kind I would not pressure on to you, and as you accept my differences so readily, I to accept yours.”