Chapter Text
"Immersion in water signifies regression to the pre-formal, reincorporation into the undifferentiated mode of pre-existence. Emergence repeats the cosmogonic act of formal manifestation; while immersion is equivalent to a dissolution of forms. That is why the symbolism of the Waters includes Death as well as Re-Birth."
Mircea Eliade
Josh felt life surge through his limbs like an electric current. In death, there had been no burning. Now, however, something.
Water.
The blindfold covering his eyes unraveled.
Water.
His stomach twisted in reflux as consciousness warmed within him. His eyes had never been so open, so drifting. Hearing, sharp. He had never paid so much attention to smell.
Even less to the small pot toppled beside the bidet, dripping water onto the wooden floor. The rustle of leaves outside, carrying breaths of oxygen, while beams of sunlight gilded the freckles on his skin. The uneven, solitary breathing of his parents at the end of the hall. The sound of wind and birds, interwoven in melody.
And then, there was him.
Tyler.
His arms wrapped around Josh’s back with tenderness. His chest rose and fell in a steady rhythm, entirely at ease with their bodies entwined. His black t-shirt clung to his skin, radiating a scalding heat.
Josh found himself smiling unconsciously into the embrace.
Water. Always water.