Suzaku & Yuri Log (Part 2 of 2)
Unlike Gino, he added to himself, but he would have to deal with that later.
“Are there any questions?” he asked before he set his plan into motion.
"One." Yuri said, rather dourly as he checked his feet, already starting to feel achy. "Do you mind if I cling to you? Elsewise, I'm gonna fall."
Suzaku had to pause for a moment before Yuri’s request could sink in. “Cling to me?” was all he could say.
Nodding, the swordsman took on a look of annoyance as he went over to the bed and sat down, remembering only to keep his knees together at the last moment. "Uh huh, these shoes are a pain and a half." He muttered rubbing his ankles and sighing. Looks like when he got back to his world he was gonna have to hide some pain.
“Ah, I see.” Suzaku had no idea why he was being so nervous about the idea. Usually, he wouldn’t mind at all; it was not uncommon to support comrades who were in need of assistance in the battlefield. He forced himself to focus. “If that is what you want, then I will do so.”
He put on his cape, gathered Yuri’s belongings from the bed, and hid them underneath. He then tried to look straight at Yuri, reminding himself again and again that Yuri was male, and offered a hand. “Shall we go?”
Ugh, it looks like it's killing him to look at me. Yuri thought offhandedly as he nodded, made sure all of his stuff was cleared out of the bathroom before he carefully stepped over to Suzaku and stumbled, barely catching himself on Suzaku's shoulder.
"Ugh, these damn heels are gonna be the end of me." He muttered and looked up at the knight shaking some bangs out of his face. "All set."
Suzaku gulped once more and slid an arm around Yuri’s waist, helping him regain balance. “Alright, then.” He carefully guided Yuri to the door and opened it half-way. Suzaku glanced around, making sure the coast was clear, before leading Yuri out of the bedroom and onto the hallway, hoping that no one would suddenly step out of their rooms and spot them.
Thankfully, they had gotten through the hallway without any problems. Suzaku knew this had been the easy part though; at the end of the hall was a long staircase, which they needed to take.
Yuri did his best to keep up, he honestly did, but in those shoes it was almost damned near impossible, next time he had to pretend to be a girl he was definitely forgetting the shoes. ... wait no, there wasn't gonna be a next- oh fuck it.
As he hurried along, using Suzaku as a balancer, his feet practically gave an obnoxious throb when he saw what was before them.
".... you're... kidding." He began, slowly, totally wishing what he was was an illusion.
“We need to climb down these stairs to get to the main gate, where we will be exiting,” Suzaku explained, guiding Yuri. “Watch your step, Yuri.”
"Oh... goodie." Yuri replied in monotone as he kept one arm on Suzaku, used the other to put the damn frilly skirts in some semblance of order as he began to slowly, slowly descend the steps, not used to having to do it in high heels. He got maybe four before he misplaced a step and pitched forward with a yelp.
“Yuri!” Suzaku reached forward and grabbed hold of Yuri’s waist, trying to keep him steady. He pulled Yuri close. “Are you hurt?”
Blushing crimson, Yuri steadied himself against Suzaku and nodded. "Yeah, sorry. It's these damn heels, I can't even walk down a hallway without tripping in these things." He muttered checking them again and wondering if he could just toss the damn things out a window. No... that wouldn't be nice, and Suzaku would probably have to return them.
"Sorry, I think I'm good now, I just... can't go as fast as I normally would."
Suzaku pondered about this for a bit. It wasn’t necessary for Yuri to wear those shoes anyway, but he had asked, and Suzaku had requested it from Anya. Nonetheless, it was getting too difficult for Yuri. “You can take it off, I suppose,” he suggested. “I can simply give them back to Anya afterwards.”
Though sorely tempted to take Suzaku up on the offer, the point of this whole fiasco was to remain covert, and not wearing shoes or putting on his normal boots would draw more attention than the shoes he currently wore would.
"No, I'll deal. We'd better hurry before someone else comes along."
“Alright.” Suzaku nodded and continued to lead Yuri down the stairs. It was a time-consuming task, and he was amazed that they didn’t encounter anyone while they were making their escape.
He then led Yuri across the Main Hall, hoping that no one would spot them. Thankfully, it seemed as if fortune were on their side as they passed through it with no problems. They finally reached the two large, white doors that led to the palace’s front garden, and Suzaku had pushed against it to open it when-
“Sir!”
Suzaku cursed inwardly and glanced in the direction of the voice, seeing two palace guards approaching him. He kept silent, trying to hold a straight face, as they eyed his companion suspiciously.
“I see you have a companion, sir.”
"Aw crap." Yuri muttered softly under his breath as he shifted behind Suzaku a little, trying to hide while he contemplated his actions.
Suzaku hoped that the guards who spotted them were like most palace guards, who quickly stepped back when faced with someone of higher rank. “Yes, that is correct,” he replied, his voice firm.
Unfortunately, it didn’t seem like the case. The braver guard continued to interrogate Suzaku. “Sir, I understand that what a Knight of Rounds does with his free time is none of our business, but bringing an unknown lady inside the premises is still against the rules.”
Okay, that was it. Without even thinking, Yuri kicked up one foot sending a pretty pink heel flying into the air. Seizing it with a firm hand, he shoved Suzaku down and threw it at the guards while kicking off the other.
As the guards ducked with a yelp and watched it go sailing past, readying their weapons, Yuri rushed them, sliding past them both with two expert whacks to their necks as he passed. They both dropped as he turned slightly to observe his handiwork, and breathed a sigh of relief.
"Well that could've gone better."
Suzaku blinked, staring at the guards, who had both been knocked-out. Then he quickly looked up at Yuri and glared. “That was not necessary!” he pointed out.
Jumping with a squeak at the sudden yell, Yuri whirled around and held his hands up laughing sheepishly. "S-sorry! Habit!"
Sighing, Suzaku decided that he would just have to deal with this mess later on. He offered his hand to Yuri and said, “We must not linger any further. We are almost outside; let’s go.”
Smiling hesitantly, Yuri nodded and first bent down to retrieve the slipper, unknowingly presenting Suzaku with... an interesting view.
Suzaku felt his face heat up instantly. He quickly turned away, exclaiming “Yuri! Please be more mindful of your actions!” as he did.
Shoe in hand, Yuri straightened, blinking at Suzaku's actions. ".... what did I do?" He asked, looking a bit confused as he tried to think of what he could have done wrong.
“N-Never mind!” Suzaku responded, trying to compose himself. Why did Yuri have to wear nothing underneath the dress? “Let us go before we are spotted.” He held out a hand, still refusing to look in Yuri’s direction.
Hopping one foot as he got the shoe back on, Yuri quickly righted the other with his other foot and slipped his toes in before nodding and taking Suzaku's hand. "Uh... kid, you're blushing red. Something go wrong?" He asked raising an eyebrow and blinking slightly.
“I am?” Suzaku gave Yuri a sideward glance. “I-I am sure it is just because of the weather! Now, let’s go.” He led Yuri outside the palace while cautiously scanning the surroundings for any sign of another presence.
Blinking, Yuri chanced a look up at the sky, which, as it had been twenty minutes ago in Suzaku's room, was sky blue and fair. Maybe it was Suzaku's knight outfit?
Yeah, sure. Let's go with that. He thought with a mental sigh as he glancd back at Suzaku and followed his lead, doing his best not to cause anymore trouble.
“I still do not understand how it was even possible for a sword to bring you to our world,” Suzaku said, while leading Yuri towards the walls that surrounded the garden. The sun’s angle had cast a shadow in the area with the surrounding walls, which was highly beneficial for them. “Although, I am thankful that you had emerged in the showers, instead of in the middle of a battlefield.”
"You've got me, swords seem to be doing all kinds of incredible things lately." He remarked as he followed Suzaku into the garden, pausing briefly to take in the field of flowers. "I dunno, I might have done better on the battlefield than in your shower." He added in a teasing tone as he hurried to catch up, starting to get the hang of walking in these high heels without tripping. Though soft earth was proving to be a touch more difficult.
Suzaku’s expression hardened as he continued to lead the way towards the main palace gates. “I would not even want to think about you appearing in the middle of a battlefield. The Black Knights are a formidable opponent, and the Gurren is a highly powerful weapon. Moreover, considering the power of the Knightmare Frames and battleships, you might get hit without me even noticing…” He quickly shook that thought away; he didn’t want to even think about losing another person he cared about. Not anymore…
Watching and listening Suzaku as they walked, Yuri's expression never changed from it's impassive poker face, but it did take on a thoughtful air as he listened. For a moment, Yuri was quiet, before his fingers, enlaced with Suzaku's, tightened a little.
"Then it's a good thing I came into this world with you. You've done a pretty decent job of protecting me." He added in light tones, somewhat comforting as his lips curled into a soft smile. "... even if it did end up with me in a dress." He added picking at the frilly skirt and ribbon disdainfully.
Suzaku glanced at Yuri, feeling somewhat comforted. “It is not a problem, Yuri,” he replied, a small smile appearing on his face. “And you do not look completely bad in a dress.”
Yuri came to a stand still, shock blossoming on his face. ".... e-excuse me?"
A thoughtful look spread across Suzaku’s face. “You do not look completely bad in a dress?” he repeated.
I feel for you Lelouch. God I feel for you... Was all that ran through Yuri's mind as he resisted the urge to flop down on the ground and sulk like a child.
"Gee.... thanks... Suzaku." Yuri said hesitantly, doing his best to keep his voice normal, but... slightly failing.
Suzaku blinked. “Is something the matter?” he asked, slightly confused.
"I've... just never heard that compliment before, it's... interesting. Thanks. Really." Yuri tried again, this time managing a bit better, with even a strained smile on his lips.
“Ah, I see. In that case, you are welcome.” Suzaku returned the smile before turning away. He noticed that they had finally reached the front gates, and spotted two guards on patrol.
“Stay here,” he told Yuri, before walking towards the guards and showing himself.
"Aye aye captain." Yuri made a false salute and leaned against the wall, crossing his arms. ... then he realized the gesture was far too manly and instead laced his fingers behind his back instead and leaned that way feeling supremely uncomfortable.
"... I am definitely changing back before I return to Terca Lumireis." He muttered softly under his breath.
“S-Sir!” the guards exclaimed once they recognized who Suzaku was.
He nodded at them in acknowledgement before speaking. “Your assistance is required by the Knight of Three. He can be located in the training hall,” he informed them. He supposed that one of the good things that came along with the encounter with Gino was that he was sure Gino would cover for him, in case the guards actually managed to find Gino. “I will guard the palace myself until you have returned.”
They seemed slightly confused at Suzaku’s command, but obeyed, nonetheless. “Yes, sir!” Suzaku watched until they were out of sight before signaling to Yuri that it was safe to come out of his hiding place.
Listening with a faint smile on his lips, Yuri let out a soft chuckle as he straightened and walked out from the wall, blinking at little as the sunlight struck him again from where he'd been hiding in the shadows and raised his hand up to block it some.
"You've got style." He informed Suzaku wryly with a cheerful grin as he walked over to Suzaku.
“Really? I did not think of it that way,” the Knight of Seven responded. “Well. We had best be going. There is an empty field nearby, and you can attempt to return to your world there.” He led Yuri away from the palace and towards the said location.
"Sure but... Suzaku, are you planning to send me back in this?" Yuri asked carefully, trying not to sound... obvious, about the whole thing.
“Ah! I had forgotten.” Suzaku took out Yuri’s belongings from behind his cape and handed it over. “Much apologies, Yuri.”
Yuri blinked and carefully took the wet clothes, before smiling again, this time rather uncertainly. ".... where... should I change?"
Suzaku glanced around, looking for a tree or some form of cover where Yuri can change with privacy. Unfortunately, all that surrounded them in their immediate area were stretches of healthy, green grass, seemingly glowing underneath the sun’s rays. “You would have to change here,” was his conclusion after a quick survey of the area.
"... that's what I thought." Yuri muttered facepalming, trying to tell himself there HAD been a good reason for getting into this dress while leaving.
“Do I need to turn around?” the younger boy asked.
"No, just don't stare." Yuri remarked chuckling a little as he reached around to try and undo the back ribbons to the dress and- "Aw man... Suzaku..." He muttered. "A little help?"
“A-Aah, right away,” Suzaku responded, approaching Yuri. He proceeded to untie the ribbons, brows furrowing in concentration. Once he was done, he gave a nod of satisfaction. “All finished.”
"Thanks." Yuri responded cheerfully as he began to slide the sleeves off, then paused, his eyes widening slightly as he suddenly checked around. "Uh... do you hear that?" He asked carefully, blinking.
Suzaku whirled around in alarm, his hand automatically reaching for the hilt of his sword. He cautiously scanned the area and spotted a movement out of the right corner of his eye. The Knight of Seven’s eyes narrowed as a dark figure approached. He crouched low, ready to attack, when…
“Meow!”
He blinked, slowly straightening up. A pair of big eyes looked back up at him as the black cat released another meow, whiskers twitching.
“Arthur? You followed us?” he asked as his hand left the hilt of his sword and rested on his side.
"A cat?" Yuri questioned as he glanced at it and blinked at the small feline that padded up to Suzaku and eyed him like... like Repede would eye a treat. He blinked. "Is that your pet?"
Suzaku bent down and picked Arthur up. With the cat now in his arms, he turned back to Yuri and smiled. “This is Arthur,” he introduced. “He was a stray cat I had adopted when Euphie and I-“
Before he could finish his sentence, Arthur sunk his teeth into Suzaku’s arm, eliciting a small cry of pain from Suzaku. Arthur then freed itself from Suzaku’s arms and jumped in the direction of Yuri.
"Suzaku?" Yuri started forward when his friend gave a small sound of pain and moved a few steps forward before he suddenly realized there was something flying at him. With a yelp he quickly stretched his arms out, catching the cat and holding it gently against his chest, blinking as it mewled and started link his chin.
"Ack- hey- that tickles- hey c'mon!" He started laughing a little as it continued to lick his chin and neck.
The scene before him made Suzaku chuckle. “It seems that Arthur likes you,” he observed, watching them.
"More like he likes the salt of my ski- ah hey!" He gave up on trying to reason with the cat as it placed its paws on his shoulders and began licking hire, Yuri opted to obediently stand there and be licked.
"Feel free to help anytime you know."
“I would, but it seems that our love is one-sided,” Suzaku laughed.
"Hmm? What do you mean?" Yuri asked blinking as Arthur began to clumb up onto his shoulders and mewl as he petted it a little.
“Arthur has a fondness for everyone except me,” Suzaku explained, still grinning as his eyes followed the cat’s movements. “It doesn’t help that he thinks you are a pretty girl, I suppose.”
"Ha ha Suzaku, keep it up and I'll get you for that." Yuri warned him chuckling as he slowly bent a little so that Arthur could climb onto his back, where he saw looking quite proud.
As Suzaku watched Yuri and Arthur, he couldn’t help but reflect on his current situation. When was the last time he had laughed like this? It seemed so long ago. Now everything was different, and the memories seemed so distant he sometimes forgot what it was like to be happy.
Everything has changed so much. I can never go back to those days any longer.
With a cat sitting on his back now, Yuri watched Suzaku with a blink. "Suzaku?"
Realizing that his mind started drifting off, Suzaku quickly shook his head and forced a smile. “It is nothing, Yuri,” he replied. “So… Are you ready to get back to your world now?”
"I still need to change you know." Yuri informed the other with a soft chuckle as Arthur preened on his back.
“Ah, right!” Suzaku walked towards Yuri and picked up Arthur from behind. The cat gave out a hiss and started clawing at Suzaku’s face, but Suzaku managed to hold it far enough so that Arthur couldn’t get him. “There you go. I will turn around to give you privacy.”
"You sure you're okay there chief?" Yuri asked grinning as he watched Arthur go volatile on him.
Suzaku turned Arthur around, so that the cat’s back was towards him, and held Arthur in his arms. Arthur, frustrated that he couldn’t reach Suzaku’s face, settled for biting and chewing on Suzaku’s arm.
Suzaku winced, and then quickly covered it with a smile. “I will be fine,” he replied. He turned around to give Yuri some privacy. “I am used to Arthur being like this.”
Out of the dress and quickly pulling on his wet pants, Yuri glanced over his shoulder. Suzaku might be able to hide the sight of Arthur attacking him, but he couldn't hide the sounds of Arthur hissing at him. And if the cat was hissing, Yuri had a good idea what else it was doing. Throwing his jacket over his shoulder, he reached his arm over Suzaku's shoulder and gently rubbed Arthur's head, smiling as it stopped nipping his fingers.
"Man, he really doesn't like you."
“As I said, our love is one-sided.” As Suzaku said this, he turned his head to the sound of Yuri’s voice, and found himself staring back at Yuri’s dark-colored eyes.
"I dunno why, I mean, you're pretty likeable to me." Yuri commented continuing to pet Arthur to keep him from nibbling on Suzaku. As he did he glanced at Suzaku to meet his eyes, as his other hand rested on Suzaku's shoulder, and he blinked as he looked into Suzaku's green ones.
"Hey, you have really pretty eyes." He remarked.
Suzaku blinked, but held his stare. “Do you think so?”
Reaching up slightly to brush away some of Suzaku's bangs, Yuri looked into those green depths, and smiled warmly. "Yeah. They're nice. A little hard though." He teased and poked him gently on the nose.
Suzaku snapped his head back slightly at the poke. “Oh. Thank you, I suppose.”
Chuckling, Yuri drew back, fingers still scratching Arthur as he smiled sheepishly. "Sorry. Didn't mean to bother you."
Another smile crept up Suzaku’s lips. “You didn’t,” he replied in all honesty. “And thank you for keeping Arthur calm.”
Yuri's smile brightened. "I just don't want you to get hurt." He responded with a soft chuckle.
“That is very thoughtful of you.”
As Suzaku said that, Arthur broke off into a yawn, jumped off his arms, and onto Yuri’s.
Catching the cat with a smile, Yuri continued to stroke Arthur as it started to yawn and fall asleep. "Nah, I'm just worried about you. We're friends aren't we?"
That statement made Suzaku pause for a while, remembering what Lelouch told him countless times. It was exactly the same statement, and he believed it. Even when he started having doubts, his belief was stronger, because it was Lelouch, and he wanted to believe in Lelouch with all his heart.
But he quickly shook the thoughts away and smiled. He knew he could trust Yuri; Yuri was nothing like Lelouch. “Yes. Always.”
Yuri hesitated at that. Forever... hadn't he said that to Flynn? He thought for a moment, then smiled. Yes, Flynn was a moron and acting stupid, but they were still friends.
Holding out a hand, palm out and straight up, Yuri grinned. "Promise?"
A bright smile formed on Suzaku's face as he took Yuri's hand without hesitation.
"Promise."
END!
“Are there any questions?” he asked before he set his plan into motion.
"One." Yuri said, rather dourly as he checked his feet, already starting to feel achy. "Do you mind if I cling to you? Elsewise, I'm gonna fall."
Suzaku had to pause for a moment before Yuri’s request could sink in. “Cling to me?” was all he could say.
Nodding, the swordsman took on a look of annoyance as he went over to the bed and sat down, remembering only to keep his knees together at the last moment. "Uh huh, these shoes are a pain and a half." He muttered rubbing his ankles and sighing. Looks like when he got back to his world he was gonna have to hide some pain.
“Ah, I see.” Suzaku had no idea why he was being so nervous about the idea. Usually, he wouldn’t mind at all; it was not uncommon to support comrades who were in need of assistance in the battlefield. He forced himself to focus. “If that is what you want, then I will do so.”
He put on his cape, gathered Yuri’s belongings from the bed, and hid them underneath. He then tried to look straight at Yuri, reminding himself again and again that Yuri was male, and offered a hand. “Shall we go?”
Ugh, it looks like it's killing him to look at me. Yuri thought offhandedly as he nodded, made sure all of his stuff was cleared out of the bathroom before he carefully stepped over to Suzaku and stumbled, barely catching himself on Suzaku's shoulder.
"Ugh, these damn heels are gonna be the end of me." He muttered and looked up at the knight shaking some bangs out of his face. "All set."
Suzaku gulped once more and slid an arm around Yuri’s waist, helping him regain balance. “Alright, then.” He carefully guided Yuri to the door and opened it half-way. Suzaku glanced around, making sure the coast was clear, before leading Yuri out of the bedroom and onto the hallway, hoping that no one would suddenly step out of their rooms and spot them.
Thankfully, they had gotten through the hallway without any problems. Suzaku knew this had been the easy part though; at the end of the hall was a long staircase, which they needed to take.
Yuri did his best to keep up, he honestly did, but in those shoes it was almost damned near impossible, next time he had to pretend to be a girl he was definitely forgetting the shoes. ... wait no, there wasn't gonna be a next- oh fuck it.
As he hurried along, using Suzaku as a balancer, his feet practically gave an obnoxious throb when he saw what was before them.
".... you're... kidding." He began, slowly, totally wishing what he was was an illusion.
“We need to climb down these stairs to get to the main gate, where we will be exiting,” Suzaku explained, guiding Yuri. “Watch your step, Yuri.”
"Oh... goodie." Yuri replied in monotone as he kept one arm on Suzaku, used the other to put the damn frilly skirts in some semblance of order as he began to slowly, slowly descend the steps, not used to having to do it in high heels. He got maybe four before he misplaced a step and pitched forward with a yelp.
“Yuri!” Suzaku reached forward and grabbed hold of Yuri’s waist, trying to keep him steady. He pulled Yuri close. “Are you hurt?”
Blushing crimson, Yuri steadied himself against Suzaku and nodded. "Yeah, sorry. It's these damn heels, I can't even walk down a hallway without tripping in these things." He muttered checking them again and wondering if he could just toss the damn things out a window. No... that wouldn't be nice, and Suzaku would probably have to return them.
"Sorry, I think I'm good now, I just... can't go as fast as I normally would."
Suzaku pondered about this for a bit. It wasn’t necessary for Yuri to wear those shoes anyway, but he had asked, and Suzaku had requested it from Anya. Nonetheless, it was getting too difficult for Yuri. “You can take it off, I suppose,” he suggested. “I can simply give them back to Anya afterwards.”
Though sorely tempted to take Suzaku up on the offer, the point of this whole fiasco was to remain covert, and not wearing shoes or putting on his normal boots would draw more attention than the shoes he currently wore would.
"No, I'll deal. We'd better hurry before someone else comes along."
“Alright.” Suzaku nodded and continued to lead Yuri down the stairs. It was a time-consuming task, and he was amazed that they didn’t encounter anyone while they were making their escape.
He then led Yuri across the Main Hall, hoping that no one would spot them. Thankfully, it seemed as if fortune were on their side as they passed through it with no problems. They finally reached the two large, white doors that led to the palace’s front garden, and Suzaku had pushed against it to open it when-
“Sir!”
Suzaku cursed inwardly and glanced in the direction of the voice, seeing two palace guards approaching him. He kept silent, trying to hold a straight face, as they eyed his companion suspiciously.
“I see you have a companion, sir.”
"Aw crap." Yuri muttered softly under his breath as he shifted behind Suzaku a little, trying to hide while he contemplated his actions.
Suzaku hoped that the guards who spotted them were like most palace guards, who quickly stepped back when faced with someone of higher rank. “Yes, that is correct,” he replied, his voice firm.
Unfortunately, it didn’t seem like the case. The braver guard continued to interrogate Suzaku. “Sir, I understand that what a Knight of Rounds does with his free time is none of our business, but bringing an unknown lady inside the premises is still against the rules.”
Okay, that was it. Without even thinking, Yuri kicked up one foot sending a pretty pink heel flying into the air. Seizing it with a firm hand, he shoved Suzaku down and threw it at the guards while kicking off the other.
As the guards ducked with a yelp and watched it go sailing past, readying their weapons, Yuri rushed them, sliding past them both with two expert whacks to their necks as he passed. They both dropped as he turned slightly to observe his handiwork, and breathed a sigh of relief.
"Well that could've gone better."
Suzaku blinked, staring at the guards, who had both been knocked-out. Then he quickly looked up at Yuri and glared. “That was not necessary!” he pointed out.
Jumping with a squeak at the sudden yell, Yuri whirled around and held his hands up laughing sheepishly. "S-sorry! Habit!"
Sighing, Suzaku decided that he would just have to deal with this mess later on. He offered his hand to Yuri and said, “We must not linger any further. We are almost outside; let’s go.”
Smiling hesitantly, Yuri nodded and first bent down to retrieve the slipper, unknowingly presenting Suzaku with... an interesting view.
Suzaku felt his face heat up instantly. He quickly turned away, exclaiming “Yuri! Please be more mindful of your actions!” as he did.
Shoe in hand, Yuri straightened, blinking at Suzaku's actions. ".... what did I do?" He asked, looking a bit confused as he tried to think of what he could have done wrong.
“N-Never mind!” Suzaku responded, trying to compose himself. Why did Yuri have to wear nothing underneath the dress? “Let us go before we are spotted.” He held out a hand, still refusing to look in Yuri’s direction.
Hopping one foot as he got the shoe back on, Yuri quickly righted the other with his other foot and slipped his toes in before nodding and taking Suzaku's hand. "Uh... kid, you're blushing red. Something go wrong?" He asked raising an eyebrow and blinking slightly.
“I am?” Suzaku gave Yuri a sideward glance. “I-I am sure it is just because of the weather! Now, let’s go.” He led Yuri outside the palace while cautiously scanning the surroundings for any sign of another presence.
Blinking, Yuri chanced a look up at the sky, which, as it had been twenty minutes ago in Suzaku's room, was sky blue and fair. Maybe it was Suzaku's knight outfit?
Yeah, sure. Let's go with that. He thought with a mental sigh as he glancd back at Suzaku and followed his lead, doing his best not to cause anymore trouble.
“I still do not understand how it was even possible for a sword to bring you to our world,” Suzaku said, while leading Yuri towards the walls that surrounded the garden. The sun’s angle had cast a shadow in the area with the surrounding walls, which was highly beneficial for them. “Although, I am thankful that you had emerged in the showers, instead of in the middle of a battlefield.”
"You've got me, swords seem to be doing all kinds of incredible things lately." He remarked as he followed Suzaku into the garden, pausing briefly to take in the field of flowers. "I dunno, I might have done better on the battlefield than in your shower." He added in a teasing tone as he hurried to catch up, starting to get the hang of walking in these high heels without tripping. Though soft earth was proving to be a touch more difficult.
Suzaku’s expression hardened as he continued to lead the way towards the main palace gates. “I would not even want to think about you appearing in the middle of a battlefield. The Black Knights are a formidable opponent, and the Gurren is a highly powerful weapon. Moreover, considering the power of the Knightmare Frames and battleships, you might get hit without me even noticing…” He quickly shook that thought away; he didn’t want to even think about losing another person he cared about. Not anymore…
Watching and listening Suzaku as they walked, Yuri's expression never changed from it's impassive poker face, but it did take on a thoughtful air as he listened. For a moment, Yuri was quiet, before his fingers, enlaced with Suzaku's, tightened a little.
"Then it's a good thing I came into this world with you. You've done a pretty decent job of protecting me." He added in light tones, somewhat comforting as his lips curled into a soft smile. "... even if it did end up with me in a dress." He added picking at the frilly skirt and ribbon disdainfully.
Suzaku glanced at Yuri, feeling somewhat comforted. “It is not a problem, Yuri,” he replied, a small smile appearing on his face. “And you do not look completely bad in a dress.”
Yuri came to a stand still, shock blossoming on his face. ".... e-excuse me?"
A thoughtful look spread across Suzaku’s face. “You do not look completely bad in a dress?” he repeated.
I feel for you Lelouch. God I feel for you... Was all that ran through Yuri's mind as he resisted the urge to flop down on the ground and sulk like a child.
"Gee.... thanks... Suzaku." Yuri said hesitantly, doing his best to keep his voice normal, but... slightly failing.
Suzaku blinked. “Is something the matter?” he asked, slightly confused.
"I've... just never heard that compliment before, it's... interesting. Thanks. Really." Yuri tried again, this time managing a bit better, with even a strained smile on his lips.
“Ah, I see. In that case, you are welcome.” Suzaku returned the smile before turning away. He noticed that they had finally reached the front gates, and spotted two guards on patrol.
“Stay here,” he told Yuri, before walking towards the guards and showing himself.
"Aye aye captain." Yuri made a false salute and leaned against the wall, crossing his arms. ... then he realized the gesture was far too manly and instead laced his fingers behind his back instead and leaned that way feeling supremely uncomfortable.
"... I am definitely changing back before I return to Terca Lumireis." He muttered softly under his breath.
“S-Sir!” the guards exclaimed once they recognized who Suzaku was.
He nodded at them in acknowledgement before speaking. “Your assistance is required by the Knight of Three. He can be located in the training hall,” he informed them. He supposed that one of the good things that came along with the encounter with Gino was that he was sure Gino would cover for him, in case the guards actually managed to find Gino. “I will guard the palace myself until you have returned.”
They seemed slightly confused at Suzaku’s command, but obeyed, nonetheless. “Yes, sir!” Suzaku watched until they were out of sight before signaling to Yuri that it was safe to come out of his hiding place.
Listening with a faint smile on his lips, Yuri let out a soft chuckle as he straightened and walked out from the wall, blinking at little as the sunlight struck him again from where he'd been hiding in the shadows and raised his hand up to block it some.
"You've got style." He informed Suzaku wryly with a cheerful grin as he walked over to Suzaku.
“Really? I did not think of it that way,” the Knight of Seven responded. “Well. We had best be going. There is an empty field nearby, and you can attempt to return to your world there.” He led Yuri away from the palace and towards the said location.
"Sure but... Suzaku, are you planning to send me back in this?" Yuri asked carefully, trying not to sound... obvious, about the whole thing.
“Ah! I had forgotten.” Suzaku took out Yuri’s belongings from behind his cape and handed it over. “Much apologies, Yuri.”
Yuri blinked and carefully took the wet clothes, before smiling again, this time rather uncertainly. ".... where... should I change?"
Suzaku glanced around, looking for a tree or some form of cover where Yuri can change with privacy. Unfortunately, all that surrounded them in their immediate area were stretches of healthy, green grass, seemingly glowing underneath the sun’s rays. “You would have to change here,” was his conclusion after a quick survey of the area.
"... that's what I thought." Yuri muttered facepalming, trying to tell himself there HAD been a good reason for getting into this dress while leaving.
“Do I need to turn around?” the younger boy asked.
"No, just don't stare." Yuri remarked chuckling a little as he reached around to try and undo the back ribbons to the dress and- "Aw man... Suzaku..." He muttered. "A little help?"
“A-Aah, right away,” Suzaku responded, approaching Yuri. He proceeded to untie the ribbons, brows furrowing in concentration. Once he was done, he gave a nod of satisfaction. “All finished.”
"Thanks." Yuri responded cheerfully as he began to slide the sleeves off, then paused, his eyes widening slightly as he suddenly checked around. "Uh... do you hear that?" He asked carefully, blinking.
Suzaku whirled around in alarm, his hand automatically reaching for the hilt of his sword. He cautiously scanned the area and spotted a movement out of the right corner of his eye. The Knight of Seven’s eyes narrowed as a dark figure approached. He crouched low, ready to attack, when…
“Meow!”
He blinked, slowly straightening up. A pair of big eyes looked back up at him as the black cat released another meow, whiskers twitching.
“Arthur? You followed us?” he asked as his hand left the hilt of his sword and rested on his side.
"A cat?" Yuri questioned as he glanced at it and blinked at the small feline that padded up to Suzaku and eyed him like... like Repede would eye a treat. He blinked. "Is that your pet?"
Suzaku bent down and picked Arthur up. With the cat now in his arms, he turned back to Yuri and smiled. “This is Arthur,” he introduced. “He was a stray cat I had adopted when Euphie and I-“
Before he could finish his sentence, Arthur sunk his teeth into Suzaku’s arm, eliciting a small cry of pain from Suzaku. Arthur then freed itself from Suzaku’s arms and jumped in the direction of Yuri.
"Suzaku?" Yuri started forward when his friend gave a small sound of pain and moved a few steps forward before he suddenly realized there was something flying at him. With a yelp he quickly stretched his arms out, catching the cat and holding it gently against his chest, blinking as it mewled and started link his chin.
"Ack- hey- that tickles- hey c'mon!" He started laughing a little as it continued to lick his chin and neck.
The scene before him made Suzaku chuckle. “It seems that Arthur likes you,” he observed, watching them.
"More like he likes the salt of my ski- ah hey!" He gave up on trying to reason with the cat as it placed its paws on his shoulders and began licking hire, Yuri opted to obediently stand there and be licked.
"Feel free to help anytime you know."
“I would, but it seems that our love is one-sided,” Suzaku laughed.
"Hmm? What do you mean?" Yuri asked blinking as Arthur began to clumb up onto his shoulders and mewl as he petted it a little.
“Arthur has a fondness for everyone except me,” Suzaku explained, still grinning as his eyes followed the cat’s movements. “It doesn’t help that he thinks you are a pretty girl, I suppose.”
"Ha ha Suzaku, keep it up and I'll get you for that." Yuri warned him chuckling as he slowly bent a little so that Arthur could climb onto his back, where he saw looking quite proud.
As Suzaku watched Yuri and Arthur, he couldn’t help but reflect on his current situation. When was the last time he had laughed like this? It seemed so long ago. Now everything was different, and the memories seemed so distant he sometimes forgot what it was like to be happy.
Everything has changed so much. I can never go back to those days any longer.
With a cat sitting on his back now, Yuri watched Suzaku with a blink. "Suzaku?"
Realizing that his mind started drifting off, Suzaku quickly shook his head and forced a smile. “It is nothing, Yuri,” he replied. “So… Are you ready to get back to your world now?”
"I still need to change you know." Yuri informed the other with a soft chuckle as Arthur preened on his back.
“Ah, right!” Suzaku walked towards Yuri and picked up Arthur from behind. The cat gave out a hiss and started clawing at Suzaku’s face, but Suzaku managed to hold it far enough so that Arthur couldn’t get him. “There you go. I will turn around to give you privacy.”
"You sure you're okay there chief?" Yuri asked grinning as he watched Arthur go volatile on him.
Suzaku turned Arthur around, so that the cat’s back was towards him, and held Arthur in his arms. Arthur, frustrated that he couldn’t reach Suzaku’s face, settled for biting and chewing on Suzaku’s arm.
Suzaku winced, and then quickly covered it with a smile. “I will be fine,” he replied. He turned around to give Yuri some privacy. “I am used to Arthur being like this.”
Out of the dress and quickly pulling on his wet pants, Yuri glanced over his shoulder. Suzaku might be able to hide the sight of Arthur attacking him, but he couldn't hide the sounds of Arthur hissing at him. And if the cat was hissing, Yuri had a good idea what else it was doing. Throwing his jacket over his shoulder, he reached his arm over Suzaku's shoulder and gently rubbed Arthur's head, smiling as it stopped nipping his fingers.
"Man, he really doesn't like you."
“As I said, our love is one-sided.” As Suzaku said this, he turned his head to the sound of Yuri’s voice, and found himself staring back at Yuri’s dark-colored eyes.
"I dunno why, I mean, you're pretty likeable to me." Yuri commented continuing to pet Arthur to keep him from nibbling on Suzaku. As he did he glanced at Suzaku to meet his eyes, as his other hand rested on Suzaku's shoulder, and he blinked as he looked into Suzaku's green ones.
"Hey, you have really pretty eyes." He remarked.
Suzaku blinked, but held his stare. “Do you think so?”
Reaching up slightly to brush away some of Suzaku's bangs, Yuri looked into those green depths, and smiled warmly. "Yeah. They're nice. A little hard though." He teased and poked him gently on the nose.
Suzaku snapped his head back slightly at the poke. “Oh. Thank you, I suppose.”
Chuckling, Yuri drew back, fingers still scratching Arthur as he smiled sheepishly. "Sorry. Didn't mean to bother you."
Another smile crept up Suzaku’s lips. “You didn’t,” he replied in all honesty. “And thank you for keeping Arthur calm.”
Yuri's smile brightened. "I just don't want you to get hurt." He responded with a soft chuckle.
“That is very thoughtful of you.”
As Suzaku said that, Arthur broke off into a yawn, jumped off his arms, and onto Yuri’s.
Catching the cat with a smile, Yuri continued to stroke Arthur as it started to yawn and fall asleep. "Nah, I'm just worried about you. We're friends aren't we?"
That statement made Suzaku pause for a while, remembering what Lelouch told him countless times. It was exactly the same statement, and he believed it. Even when he started having doubts, his belief was stronger, because it was Lelouch, and he wanted to believe in Lelouch with all his heart.
But he quickly shook the thoughts away and smiled. He knew he could trust Yuri; Yuri was nothing like Lelouch. “Yes. Always.”
Yuri hesitated at that. Forever... hadn't he said that to Flynn? He thought for a moment, then smiled. Yes, Flynn was a moron and acting stupid, but they were still friends.
Holding out a hand, palm out and straight up, Yuri grinned. "Promise?"
A bright smile formed on Suzaku's face as he took Yuri's hand without hesitation.
"Promise."
END!