Sea-Kissed Melody
A canon short story for my fanfiction; You Cure The Light. :)
Disclaimer: This short story has no spoilers for YCTL in it, so it can be enjoyed with or as a standalone piece.
Spoiler-free video by clef heima below.
Sea-Kissed Melody
Yusuke’s footsteps echoed in a lone corridor, one familiar and often ventured to bask in bonds forged. Treading its various passages, the Servants’ quarter was a place of respite, where residents of the mansion could shed their outer shells and embrace their true selves. In spite of the locale’s name, those who inhabited its many rooms were not perceived as mere housekeepers but instead valued citizens of a shrouded kingdom. All was a pretence, from their uniforms to their rigid words of lordship, and whilst a hierarchy of power was still established, it wasn’t quite alike the visage they perpetuated. Such was one of the kingdom’s many defences against public scrutiny, and while at first Yusuke too had fallen for the mirage, he now knew the truth of this place and the souls which reside within.
With his returned art supplies in hand, he made his way back towards the main floor, having just exchanged warm farewells with Furiaye moments prior. For she had asked to borrow a few of his artistic reserves in order to craft a birthday gift for her twin sister - a charm painted with every fibre of her affection. He was heartened to aid in her wishes, not only because he holds all those here near and dear but also because he cherished when one employed creativity as an expression of love.
As his lips curled at the imagination of Fialy’s endeared smile, he perceived and stilled at the sound of a distant melody, one which resonated akin to the press of piano keys. The tune lasted but a singular moment, as if it were accidental instead of purposed. Confused by such, he thought to concede on its existence, only for it to resume and tickle his ears once more. Wholly intrigued, he began to follow the disjointed sounds, careful to listen for every note. After a few minutes, he found himself lulled towards the entertainment room, a space where any and all could unwind after a hard day’s work.
The fragmented melody now reverberant, he swallowed his slight hesitation and peeked within, only for his eyes to widen in witness. Akira, his beloved partner, stood over a familiar ivory piano, his delicate fingers pressing against its sleek keys at periodic intervals, as if he were appraising them. Tantalised by both his actions and presence, the navy-haired man made his approach - a gentle call on his tongue,
“Akira…?”
His lover swerved around with such startled haste his hand smacked against the keys and evoked a harsh dissonance. His crimson eyes then stared, unnerved, until a sense of calm glowed within, and a sigh of relief fell from his fair lips.
“Ah, Y-Yusuke… What brings you down here?”
His voice, whilst somewhat abashed, brimmed with adored warmth, an affection which ignited Yusuke’s heart every time.
Ignoring the flutter of his chest, the navy-haired man countered, “I could ask you the very same.” He then tilted his head towards the piano, a huff of amusement escaping him. “Although, I suppose the answer itself lies before me. Since when did you slip away for these private sessions?”
“I-I don’t, nor was this my original purpose…” With his lips now pressed together, the raven-haired man averted his gaze momentarily, towards the candles which illuminated the room, and began to awkwardly rub his nape. “I came down here to deliver and cheer Ann with some sweets, given it’s that time of the month for her, but then I… grew distracted on my way back upstairs.”
“Well, aren’t you quite the gentleman.” A charmed smirk flickered upon Yusuke’s countenance. “My own purpose isn’t of equal nobility, for I merely sought to regain some lent supplies.” Brandishing his collection as evidence, he stepped closer, towards the piano and glided his hand over its frame as he approached. “If I recall correctly, you have a history with this piano, yes?”
“M-Mm…” Akira moaned in answer, his eyes shifting to and fro the musical instrument and his love. “My father utilised it to teach me how to play, but I fear all his efforts were for naught thanks to my own neglect.” He then gave a sheepish chuckle. “I doubt I could even play a beginner’s melody now…”
“Hm… Why don’t you put such to the test?” With yet another step, Yusuke closed the small distance between the two, provoking a slight blush upon his partner's cheeks. “After all, I would love to both see and hear you engage in one of your beloved childhood memories.”
“...I’m unsure. I may end up a nuisance and disturb those around us.”
“I am unconvinced they’d even be able to hear you through these thick walls, let alone perceive your efforts in such a negative light.” As an attempt of reassurance, the navy-haired man caressed his hand over his beloved’s resting upon the piano. “I have been intrigued by your musical talents ever since you first uttered them, and whilst I do not wish to push you beyond your comforts, I would truly be honoured to witness you play.”
Akira’s gaze diverted to their encircled hands, staring at them until a deeper scarlet took hold of his visage, and a soft huff eluded his lips.
“Alright… I suppose it couldn’t hurt to at least try.”
With such words of assent, he flashed an encouraged smile before he manoeuvred to take up residence upon the piano stool and began to stretch his fingers. He then gently pressed a few keys, seemingly to test and revitalise his memory. As he did so, Yusuke watched him with keen ardour, awaiting and anticipating an awe-inspiring performance.
*music*
A brief silence then commenced, one where their eyes met and held until a calming melody swayed and sprung to life. It began a slow, drifting tune, one which soothed the senses akin to a lullaby before it swelled into further bliss. Its gentle harmony evoked imagery of loving tides, of being swept into a tranquil embrace and its promise of untold refuge. Boundless, its tale of loss and love overflowed, echoed with sufferance and prevail, until it coalesced into reborn hope, into undying reassurance of the morrow.
Without realise, Yusuke had shut his eyes, fallen adrift amidst the song's beautiful euphony. Only once it slowed to a rejoiceful close did he reopen his tender gaze, observing Akira withdraw his fingers from the piano’s magnificence.
Too awestruck to speak, he could only gape at his beloved in pure adoration, so much so it fostered Akira’s abashment.
“S-Satisfied…?” The raven-haired man weakly murmured, his cheeks puffed and flushed by the unabating stare.
Realising his intensity, Yusuke endeavoured to recompose and instead erupted with ardent cheer, “Such feeble words couldn’t even begin to describe the emotions welling within me!” He clamoured, his eyes sparkling akin to stars. “That was beyond phenomenal, my love! The melody, the swell of harmonious notes and the vast tale unveiled in each…! Ah, you have truly blessed me! I thought I understood the full potential of music, but you have bestowed me with the realisation there is still much to learn!”
Surprised yet heartened by his profound praise, Akira sheepishly scratched his cheek and chuckled, “I messed up a few of the first notes, but I’m glad to hear you enjoyed it nevertheless.” His lips then curled with utmost reverence. “Such adulation coming from someone as talented as you is truly an honour, so thank you.”
Confounded, the navy-haired man tilted his head. “But… I have no talents in the world of music.”
“I don’t believe that matters. Music or art, you’ve faced the hardships of creativity for far longer than I have, thus your words hold more weight to me.”
“...Strange perspective, but alright.” Huffing in amusement, Yusuke placed his supplies down and inched to attend his lover’s side. “That song you played… May I ask what’s its name and where you learnt of its brilliance?”
“It’s name…? I’ll leave it up to your imagination,” Akira teased, a playful smirk upon his visage. “My father taught me it, but I am actually unaware of its origin. Perhaps it’s from some far away fantastical world, one which gives life to ours.”
“Hmph, now you’re just being needlessly cryptic…”
“As is my apparent wont,” The raven-haired man giggled, unyielding on his jokester ways. He then gestured towards the piano. “Would you be interested in trying your hand at music? I can attempt to teach you if you wish.”
“Weren’t you undeservingly doubting your abilities moments prior…? How do you suddenly have the confidence to teach?”
“What can I say? A minor, or rather considerable praise from you is enough to ignite my heart.”
Unconvinced yet fascinated, Yusuke gave a nod of assent. “Alright then.”
With his smirk remaining, Akira vacated his seat and implored Yusuke to take the reins. The moment the navy-haired man did so, rested down upon the stool, he felt his partner encroach and press against him from behind. His lover’s fingers then slipped under his own and guided them towards the piano keys - each touch far more sensual than the last.
Flustered by such, Yusuke sensed his cheeks warm as his desire for further intimacy began to swell. He attempted to dismiss, to focus on the lesson at hand, but with a single glance upwards he met his lover’s fond gaze. They stared at one another, brimming and unwavering with adoration until an amused huff escaped Akira, and he inclined to brush their lips together, ever so tantalising. Wholly captivated, Yusuke shifted to further their connection, their tongues gently interlacing as soft moans filled in the stead of music.
With warmed breath, they departed momentarily, exchanging affectionate blinks and words,
“Sorry, I couldn’t help myself… You’re far too cute…” Akira chuckled, his fingers brushing against a scarlet cheek. “Shall we resume your lesson?”
“I would love to, but…” Yusuke narrowed his eyes, rubbing his nose against Akira’s as his fingers equally stroked his nape. “I believe I would love your continued touch more…”
“If that is your wish, then…”
The two reunited in their connection, cradling one another close and lulling each other with every adoring caress - their love flowing now and forevermore.