(It's like one critical attack after the next. The way Aki says things so simply, so plainly, like everything is so easy and natural for him... it makes him crumble.

He could be, Aki says. If he wants to. Does he want to? He starts to nod and catches himself. Still in Aki's arms, he holds onto him in turn, as if he's bracing himself, using him to support himself.

He won't live forever. Tsurumaru knows that but the reminder makes him feel cold.)

Don't say that. (Don't talk about those things. Don't make him sad. He doesn't want to think about it. He doesn't need to be reminded.) You're here now.

(And that's enough. He could say more but he's at a loss for words. He feels like there are a million things welling up inside him but when it comes to speak, nothing comes out.

Shifting, he makes sure he straddles Aki, making sure he's sitting in front of him and takes a breath. Meeting his eyes, Aki can probably see the way something is turning in Tsurumaru's head. Gears are turning, something is working, and it's clear that he's still processing everything.)

You're a human. (Reaching to hold his face, tracing his thumb along his cheek, Tsurumaru whispers voice filled with quiet wonder,) Completely... totally... simply... really a human.

... What am I for you?

(Human? A sword? A kami?)