Ai No Kusabi Fan Fiction ❯ The Final Decision ❯ Chapter Two ( Chapter 2 )

Disclaimer: As before, the characters of Ai No Kusabi and the Taming Riki series do not belong to me, nor do I profit from this story.

 

* * *

Chapter Two

 

Faith is taking that first step even when you can't see the whole staircase.

 

-Martin Luther King Jr.

 

* * *

 

Iason barely breathed as he numbly watched the lights of Tanagura streak by. Ayuda was driving a bit faster than he preferred, but he couldn't find it within himself to complain. Every mile, every second that passed was one closer to being with Riki again, and he would have flown if he thought it'd get him there sooner.

 

His hand trembled slightly, spilling a small amount of amber liquid onto his traveling cloak. Glancing down, his eyes widened in surprise as he stared at the object clutched tightly in his grip. Had he really brought his wineglass with him? Frowning, Iason tried to recall those last moments in his penthouse before he scrambled into the back of his hovercar. It was no use. He could remember nothing other than the sight of his bodyguard covered in Riki's blood.

 

A sharp turn spilled more wine on the crimson fabric, and Iason immediately felt sick as he stared at the spreading stain that looked remarkably like a patch of blood. Closing his eyes, he allowed the nearly empty wineglass to slip from his fingers and fall quietly to the carpeted floor. Though he knew the bodyguard was not comfortable in the role of chauffer, Iason was immensely grateful for Ayuda's offer to drive him to the medical center. In his current state, it was likely he would have crashed his hovercar into who-knows-what and caused even more trouble. There had been too much damage done this night to warrant further reckless behavior.

 

“Sir Iason.”

 

Iason looked up quickly, startled by the sound of his own name. The confusion on his face must have been all too easy to read.

 

“We're here.” Ayuda's voice was full of sorrow as he held open the door.

 

The Blondie's eyes widened for a moment as he gazed up at Tanagura Medical Center. He did nothing to hide the shock that painted his handsome face. Had they arrived already? He hadn't even noticed that the car had stopped moving. His thoughts were so chaotic, he could barely register what was going on around him. Riki was the only thing on his mind and in his heart. Every fiber of his being ached for his wayward pet, and, though he didn't believe in a higher power, he prayed fervidly that one would be gracious enough to spare Riki's life.

 

Shaking his head to clear his jumbled thoughts, Iason nodded and rose from his seat. As he emerged, his normal grace failed him, and he stumbled over the yards of cloth that flowed heavily from his shoulders.

 

“Iason!”

 

“Master Iason!”

 

Both Katze and Daryl rushed forward to help steady the trembling Blondie, carefully maneuvering him through the hospital and lowering him into an empty chair. Though they were no longer employed in Iason's household, they both still held Iason Mink in the highest regard. Old habits die hard; especially for well-trained furniture. As though they were still in the penthouse, Daryl pressed a cup of steaming coffee into the Blondie's limp hand as Katze took the seat beside him and Ayuda paced restlessly.

 

“Tell me,” Iason mumbled softly. He had a tentative hold on his self-control as it was, but he needed to know the extent of Riki's injuries. Looking up at the bodyguard, he felt ill as he studied the darkening splotches of crimson that marred his pale tunic.

 

It wasn't the blood, however, that had affected him the most.

 

No.

 

It was dull shine of horror and pain that had reflected through Ayuda's eyes. Iason could only pray his imagination was far worse than reality.

 

Pinching the bridge of his nose, Katze released a soft sigh. “He's in bad shape,” he answered. “He has several broken bones and they are saying he'll need transplants if he is to survive.”

 

“Transplants?” Iason's voice cracked with emotion as he repeated the word in disbelief. It was as he had feared. Riki was very severely injured and could possibly perish. The thought made him physically ill.

 

“Yeah,” Katze nodded, wringing his hands together nervously. He wanted to comfort his former master, but he didn't know how well the sentiment would be received. “A lung, his liver, both kidneys and maybe…a heart.”

 

Iason didn't move, and his deadpan stare was unnerving to the others.

 

“Master Iason,” Daryl respectfully addressed the Blondie out of habit, “I'm sure that Riki will -”

 

“I want to see him,” Iason said suddenly, rising from his chair. “I want to be with him while he's going through this.” Riki was in pain. Riki could die. Riki needed him! Determination briefly replaced fear and doubt in his heart. If these were his pet's last minutes, he would be there. To his chagrin, before he could take more than a few steps, he felt several hands upon his person, desperately trying to coax him back into the hard chair.

 

“Please, Iason,” Katze begged. He could only hope that the Blondie listened to their pleas as the three of them were not strong enough to restrain him by force. “I don't think the doctors will allow -”

 

“I am the Head of the Syndicate,” Iason nearly snarled. “They will make an exception for me!”

 

“But -” Katze protested, his muscles straining as Ayuda place a hand gently, but firmly on Iason's shoulder.

 

“Let me through!”

 

“Master Iason,” Daryl's soft voice broke through the turmoil, and the Blondie's struggles ceased as he recognized the agony in his tone, “you don't want to see him as he is now.”

 

All of Iason's energy seemed to leave him at once, and he sagged against their solid hold. He desperately wanted to be with Riki, but he had to admit that it would be difficult to control his emotions when he finally laid eyes on his precious pet's grievous injuries. He weighed his options with a heavy heart as he sank into the unyielding vinyl cushion. Could he simply wait for the doctors and still keep his sanity intact? Iason knew that his very presence could be daunting. What if the medical staff made a mistake because he was in the room?

 

Sighing softly, he leaned forward onto his knees and allowed the heavy curtain of his hair to hide his tortured expression. He'd never forgive himself if Riki was hurt - even unintentionally - by his presence.

 

“Is he really that bad?” he whispered mostly to himself. He was devastated by the thought that Riki was suffering alone.

 

“A few bumps and bruises,” Daryl answered softly, settling himself in a chair a few feet away. “He's was very pale, but it was the laser burns that looked -” Instantly recognizing his mistake, Daryl barely noticed Ayuda's panicked expression or Katze's gasp of fear. It was the sudden and explosive fury of Iason Mink that held him spellbound. Faster than he could follow, the Blondie had leapt across the room and firmly pinned the eunuch to the far wall.

 

“His what!?” Iason snarled, spittle spraying with every word. He didn't notice the hands of Katze and Ayuda that clung to his bulging biceps or their frantic voices as they begged him to release Daryl. His vision swam red with fury, and a violent headache bloomed from behind his eyes. It took all his strength to keep his twitching fingers still and resist crushing the small neck that lay vulnerable in his grasp. Laser burns? Daryl had said that Riki had received laser burns!

 

“Iason, please!” Katze cried in horror. He ripped his nails down the arm of Iason's bodysuit in a desperate attempt to loosen his grip. Daryl's eyes were wide with both fear and compassion for the menacing Blondie as he slowly choked to death. Shouting, Ayuda's muscles bunched and coiled as he wrenched on Iason's wrist. It was all to no avail, however, as Iason's strength was great and his hold unbreakable. “Please!”

 

Something in Katze's tone penetrated Iason's chaotic thoughts; something that slipped through the mess in his mind to speak directly to his aching heart. Ashamed of his emotional outburst, Iason gently lowered Daryl to the floor and dropped his hand. Guilt flooded over him as the grey-eyed youth smiled sympathetically, gasping to fill his starved lungs with much needed air.

 

What was he doing? Daryl was no longer furniture employed in his home. Although he did not believe in apologies - as they merely allowed guilty parties to feel better about their transgressions - he could think of nothing else to say to the young man.

 

“Forgive me, Daryl,” Iason muttered, backing away. “My behavior was inexcusable.”

 

“No,” Daryl rasped, waving his hands dismissively toward Ayuda and Katze as they stepped forward to help him. “I was careless. I thought you knew.”

 

Shaking his head and struggling to control his rage, Iason turned and graced his bodyguard with a cold, hard look. “Did I not specifically instruct that Riki was to be apprehended unharmed?”

 

Ayuda nodded. “The police officers acted against your orders,” he explained. “They fired at Riki when he resisted arrest.”

 

“I will deal with the Tanagura Police,” Iason promised, clenching his gloved hand into a trembling fist. With a curt nod of dismissal, the Blondie allowed his fury to consume his aching heart, burning the dread and worry from his soul. He would go now, while the fire of his anger still raged, and deal with the men who had brought harm to his precious pet.

 

“Wait, please, Sir Iason.” Ayuda stepped in front of him, raising his hands in a pleading gesture.

 

“There is more. Perhaps you should listen to everything before addressing the responsible parties.” He swallowed hard when the Blondie's icy eyes bore into his. “I only wish to prevent any further surprises.”

 

Katze and Daryl nodded, having already heard the horrifying tale. They had both known Riki since his first day as Iason's pet, and neither had ever completely agreed with the mongrel's continuous, rebellious attitude. Why couldn't he see that he was the luckiest man in all of Amoi? Not only was in the most coveted pet position in all of Tanagura, but Iason loved him. After everything, the mongrel had claimed the Blondie's heart. Why couldn't Riki see that and give Iason what he wanted most?

 

Although Katze's time as Iason's furniture had long since passed, he still held a small of attraction for the handsome Blondie. It bothered him that Riki had everything that he had ever wanted and still refused Iason's love. Daryl, on the other hand, was beginning to understand the mongrel's struggles a little more with every incident. No matter what he did, no matter how much he `obeyed', he was still worthless in the eyes of those who mattered. Having finally tasted the freedom that Riki had craved for more than three years, Daryl finally understood a bit of the pet's defiance. The others thought that Riki didn't love Iason, but Daryl knew differently. Riki did love Iason; he just wanted to love the Blondie as an equal.

 

“What else happened?” Iason demanded, crossing his arms in an impatient gesture. He was desperate to speak to the chief of police while his anger was high. He wanted the fools to feel the full force of his wrath.

 

“There was an incident with the medics…” Ayuda began, shrugging helplessly. Now that he had Iason's full attention, he found himself wishing he hadn't said anything at all.

 

“And?” Iason prompted, leaning forward slightly.

 

“I…”

 

Silence followed as Ayuda was unable to finish his thought. His patience having finally reached its limit, Iason sighed in annoyance and brushed past the rigid bodyguard. He had almost turned the corner when a sharp voice caught his attention, and a small snippet of a nearby conversation piqued his interest.

 

“ - all for a filthy mongrel. I can't believe you did that, Andre! I could have easily been fired because of your report!”

 

“I'm sorry, Marcus,” another voice answered softly, “but I couldn't ignore what you did. You put me in a difficult situation and I feel that I cannot trust your judgment any longer. I want to know that I can count on my partner to help me save lives.”

 

“Save lives…” the voice of Marcus repeated scornfully. “That thing's existence is a stain on the surface of Amoi. It was one thing to offer it an opiate overdose, but I can't believe you actually saved its life.”

 

Realization dawned on Iason as he turned toward the bodyguard. His endless blue eyes were full of agony as he silently begged Ayuda to deny what was being said a few feet away. Dropping his gaze, Ayuda noticed the stains on his tunic for the first time, and his stomach revolted as he remembered Riki's cold lips beneath his own.

 

“Ayuda.” Iason's voice was barely above a whisper.

 

“These are difficult things to discuss, Sir,” Ayuda answered, lifting his head to meet Iason's pain-filled gaze. “I have been employed in your home for only a short time, but I've seen how much you care for Riki. However, I can also see why Riki rebels as he does. The police ignored your instructions. The medic refused to save his life. They wanted me to…give them permission to administer a lethal injection!” His voice shook as he unconsciously rubbed the stiffening fabric of his tunic. “Don't you see, Sir Iason? It doesn't matter to them how much Riki loves you. It doesn't matter that he took a whipping in your place or that he chose to stay in Tanagura as your pet. It doesn't even matter that he holds the title as a pet of the Head of Syndicate. No matter how much you wish to pretend that he is something more, simply by being yours, the truth is that everyone sees him as worthless Ceres mongrel; nothing more than a replaceable commodity.”

 

Iason's hands trembled as he listened to the bodyguard. It was his first instinct to lash out, to defend himself and his title. No one dared defy him. No one! He was the Head of the Syndicate; the most respected and feared Elite in all of Amoi. How dare they go against his instruction! How dare they try and take Riki from him! His feelings of sorrow and rage conflicted with one another in his aching heart and his headache worsened as he resisted the urge to claw at his heaving chest.

 

Ayuda watched, unable to move. His own heart pounded furiously as he waiting for the full force of Iason's wrath. He didn't regret his words, however. It was something he had thought about often, and he wanted Iason to understand the situation that brewed outside of Eos Towers; outside of Tanagura. Several minutes passed before Iason straightened and seemingly composed himself. Stepping from behind the corner, he walked swiftly toward the arguing medics.

 

“Sir Mink!” the sandy-haired medic nearly squeaked as the imposing Blondie approached them with an expression of bridled rage.

 

“Which of you is Marcus?” Iason asked in a calm and polite tone.

 

Putting on a brave front, the red-haired medic squared his shoulders. “I am,” he answered, the slight waver in his voice betraying his façade.

 

Nodding, Iason folded his arms and glared at the smaller man. “As of right now, you are being relieved of your duties as a medic at this hospital.” He held up a hand as Marcus's face flushed red and he sputtered a protest. “And if you insist on causing a scene, I will have you arrested for attempting to terminate the life of a pet without the permission of his master.”

 

Andre watched as his former partner slammed through the exit doors with a resounding crash. Swallowing hard, he turned his gaze toward the furious Blondie Elite. “Sir,” he began, “I am just as responsible for that offence as Marcus.”

 

“Yes you are,” Iason replied icily, “however, it was not you who refused medical assistance to my pet. For that, I will overlook your blunder. I trust it won't happen again.”

 

“No, Sir,” the medic answered.

 

Turning back toward the waiting area, Iason pulled his phone from a pocket in his cloak and quickly contacted the Hospital Director. After having conveyed his decision regarding the medic, Marcus, he wasted no time in sending a second outgoing beacon to yet another department head. The Chief of Police answered in a wary tone, as though he had been anticipating Iason's call for quite some time. He barely lodged a protest when Iason suggested he replace all the officers involved in the Emporium debacle or be replaced himself. Promising further punishment if his demands weren't meant promptly, Iason terminated the communication. All there was left to do now, was wait.

 

It was several hours later when he heard a voice through the fog he had allowed to envelope his mind. “Iason,” Katze called. “You're receiving a beacon.”

 

Startled, Iason glanced down at the phone in his hand and saw that it was indeed blinking. Clearing his throat, he opened the frequency and held the phone to his ear. “Iason Mink.”

 

“Iason.” Jupiter's voice was unmistakable and he felt a cold stab of fear. “I request your presence in my chambers immediately.”

 

Swallowing hard, Iason steeled his courage. “I apologize, but I cannot. My pet -”

 

“Yes, I've just received a report from the Police Chief of Tanagura regarding your pet and the damage he has caused,” Jupiter interrupted. “I demand to see you at once.”

 

Anger rekindled in Iason's wounded heart as Jupiter's icy tone spilled from the phone. Clenching his free hand into a fist, he took a deep breath before answering, “It is not my intent to defy you, but you must understand that Riki may not survive. I wish to remain here until I know one way or the other.”

 

“Iason -”

 

“I will be in to see you as soon as I am able,” he cut her off and then terminated the communication. He hesitated for only a moment before setting the device to ignore all incoming beacons. Glancing up, he finally noticed three sets of wide eyes, trained on him intently. Trembling, Iason ignored their incredulous stares and resumed his quiet meditation. He knew she would be furious, but there was nothing more important to him than Riki. Jupiter was no exception.

 

Hours later, a messenger arrived, delivering a summons to Iason from Jupiter herself. To everyone's horror, the Blondie politely refused and penned a quick note to be redelivered. It took an additional half an hour to convince the terrified courier that Jupiter's wrath would not be unleashed upon him. The nervous young man had barely left when the double doors leading toward the heart of the hospital swung open and Heiku Quiahtenon stepped through.

 

Iason felt violently ill at the amount of blood that tarnished the smock of the Blondie doctor. The glaring white fabric seemed all the brighter between the splashes of crimson. “Iason,” Heiku said in a voice full of surprise. “I was not aware that you were here. Why didn't you ask to come in? You know I would have allowed you access. At the very least, I would have cleaned up before coming out.”

 

Struggling to keep his eyes on Heiku's face and away from Riki's blood, Iason nodded and offered a small smile. “I do, my friend,” he answered. “I was just not sure I would have been able to handle the sight.”

 

At this, Heiku's frown deepened. “What happened to him, Iason?” he asked solemnly. “It is a miracle that Riki is going to survive!”

 

Relief washed through Iason and he visibly sagged as though a large weight had finally been lifted from his shoulders. “He'll survive?” he asked, still not ready to hope wholeheartedly.

 

“Yes,” Heiku nodded. “The broken bones will quickly heal and we were able to save his liver, though it was badly lacerated. He needed a new lung and two new kidneys, but his heart held up better than we originally expected. And that's good.” He placed his bionic hand on Iason's shoulder. “It means he is stronger than we hoped. He should recover quickly.”

 

“What took so long?” Iason demanded. “Transplants are tricky, but even you have bragged in the past that you could perform them in a very short amount of time! I've been out here for hours!”

 

Heiku squeezed his shoulder gently, not taking offense to the Blondie's obvious accusation. “Riki's injuries were extensive,” he explained. “We were worried about his heart, so we were only able to apply Acceleration in small doses, starting with his broken bones. Anything more would have been too much.”

 

Shaking with emotion, Iason barely had the decency to look guilty for his harsh words. His own heart was being ripped in two with grief. Riki had been in agony for hours; writhing in pain due to Acceleration. He could only imagine the sheer torture his precious pet had endured while he sat just a few feet away. Shaking his head to dispel the image, Iason moved to brush past the Blondie. “I need to see him.”

 

“No, Iason,” Heiku said softly, blocking the door with his impressively muscled body.

 

“What are you talking about? I need to see Riki!”

 

Heiku knew that Iason was no match for the strength of his bionic arm. However, he did not wish to further harm his friend as he gently pushed him back from the doorway. The doctor knew that what he was about to say next would hurt enough. “Listen, Iason,” he said softly, pleading with the Elite to understand, “Riki specifically said that if you came into the room, he would remove his chest tube.”

 

Horror quickly swept across Iason's face. “What? I don't -”

 

“If he removes his chest tube, his heart will fail,” Heiku continued. “I know you don't want that for him.”

 

Iason deflated, sagging against his friend in defeat. “I don't understand,” he whispered. “Why does he want to suffer alone?”

 

Heiku cringed, fearing his next words, “Riki asked for Katze.”

 

The bronze-haired young man sucked in a sharp breath at the announcement and turned frightened eyes toward the two Blondies. Riki had asked for him? Why? Was the mongrel trying to get him killed? Iason wanted to be furious as jealousy ate away at his calm façade. It took several moments before he was able to calm down enough to step away from Heiku. The anger quickly ebbed as sorrow and betrayal took its place. After everything, Riki didn't want him. Iason was so lost and confused he didn't know what he should be feeling. Remorse? Regret? Fury? Despair? What had he done to incite Riki's wrath?

 

“Perhaps I can shed some light,” Ayuda offered quietly, as though he had heard the Blondie's silent question. “Riki was told that Sir Iason ordered the police to bring him down with force. He was never informed otherwise. Perhaps he is not ready to see Sir Iason yet.”

 

“I'll talk to him,” Katze promised, stepping around the doctor. He paused, wanting to apologize to Iason, but found the words refused to cross his lips. Pushing a hand through his unruly hair, he sighed and disappeared from view.

 

Daryl and Ayuda quickly filled the seats closest to the double doors, allowing the doctor and Iason a bit of privacy. Still hurt deeply by Riki's refusal to see him, Iason gaze longingly at the dark entrance to his pet's room. He wanted more than anything to rush in and press gentle kisses to all of Riki's injuries. He wanted to gather his pet into his arms and hold him for hours. Biting his lip, Iason lowered his eyes. He would wait. If his Riki needed some time to figure out his own conflicting emotions, then Iason would wait for him. He had come so close to losing him forever that he didn't want to risk another encounter.

 

“Everything will be fine,” Heiku said comfortingly, patting his shoulder. “You'll see, old friend. Riki will -”

 

“Iason!!”

 

Both Blondies turned to see a red-face Raoul storm through the double doors. The handsome Elite's normally pleasant features were twisted into a mask of disbelief and rage. Clenching his fists, the muscles in his forearms bulged and his nostrils flared with every breath.

 

“Raoul.” Iason looked surprised as he approached. What was he doing here? He was hardly surprised when he felt Raoul's hands clamp themselves tightly around his biceps. Though they were no longer pairing partners, the imposing Blondie still had a problem with respecting the personal boundaries of others.

 

“You rejected a summons from Jupiter?” the Blondie shouted, shaking Iason a bit. “Are you mad!?”

 

Pulling away, Iason's sapphire eyes darkened as he returned Raoul's angry gaze. “No,” he answered. “If these had been Riki's last moments, then I would have been by his side.”

 

“You fool,” Raoul hissed, leaning forward and thrusting a finger into Iason's firm chest. “Do you have any idea what you have done? After she couldn't get to you, she contacted me! Do you have any idea how that made me feel!?”

 

“I apologize if you were inconvenienced in anyway, but -”

 

“Inconvenienced?” Raoul sputtered. “Iason, she is furious! I don't care that she called upon me! My only concern is for your safety! What have you done!? And all for a filthy mongrel -”

 

“Now wait,” Heiku interrupted, pulling the blood-soaked smock from his bodysuit. “You said you had developed respect for Riki after he stepped in for Iason during the whippings.”

 

“Yes,” Raoul answered bitterly. “I respected the worthless mongrel when he was aiding Iason. Now he is doing nothing more than what he did when he first arrived!” Turning toward Iason, he allowed his hand to drop weakly at his side. “You are allowing him to destroy you all over again! Do you not understand? You cannot afford such attention from Jupiter right now.”

 

Iason nodded in agreement, but his eyes retained their determination. “If you are here to deliver a summons, then considered it served,” he said. “But please inform Jupiter that I will report to her when I have seen Riki and discovered for myself that he will survive.”

 

Furious, Raoul stormed off, leaving muttered curses in his wake. Coughing lightly to cover his smile, Heiku excused himself to clean up. Sighing softly, Iason turned back toward Riki's room in time to see Katze emerge. Stepping aside, Katze motioned toward the dark interior. “Riki wants to see you,” he said quietly.

 

Nodding, Iason swiftly approached the entrance, his heart pounding in anticipation. With every step, the smell of sweat and blood grew stronger until Iason could taste it upon his very tongue. Swallowing back the bile that rose in his throat, he gathered his courage and entered. Nothing could have prepared him for the sight that met his eyes. His heart nearly exploded with pain as he gazed down at his precious pet. Riki's cheeks and dull, lifeless eyes had sunk deep into his gaunt face. His skin seemed to stretch over his bones, becoming pale and almost transparent. Once wild and unruly - much like the mongrel himself - his dark hair had been soft and luxurious. Now it hung, lank and matted with blood and sweat against Riki's face and neck. His precious pet looked as though he had been ill for years rather than a mere day. He had never seemed so fragile before. Not even after the whippings…

 

“Did you really ignore a summons from Jupiter?” Riki's voice was barely a whisper, but still cracked with the effort.

 

Iason didn't trust his own voice, so he merely nodded.

 

Riki chuckled weakly. “Do you think it's possible for a really smart computer to shit herself?”

 

Iason's lips twitched at his pet's attempt at humor. He wanted to smile; to laugh and reassure himself that Riki would be fine. However, he couldn't see past the pale and wasted person that occupied the hospital bed. If he had lost him… If he had lost Riki... Shaking his head, he kept silent as he studied his pet's emaciated frame. He didn't trust himself to speak. Iason felt as though his lips were the only thing holding back the torrent of emotion that threatened to burst like a dam from within his injured heart.

 

Breathing slowly, Riki stared out the window, unable to meet his master's intense stare. As soon as he had overheard Raoul's cries of protest, any rage that Riki held against Iason had melted completely. It was clear that the Blondie was in a lot of trouble; trouble they didn't need right now. Not so soon after the whippings. Licking his dry lips, Riki sagged into the pillow. Although he knew the answer, he needed to hear Iason's response out loud. “Did you really tell the police to shoot me down?”

 

Shaking his head vigorously, Iason dropped to his knees beside Riki's bed and quickly grasped his hand. It seemed that even though he hadn't spoken a word, his sorrow had found another outlet from which to make its escape. Bringing Riki's limp hand to his mouth, Iason gently kissed his cold fingers and felt the damp tracks that traced their way down his sculpted cheeks.

 

“Hey,” Riki shifted uncomfortably, “are you crying?”

 

Swallowing hard, Iason kept silent, leaning forward until his forehead rested against the sheets of Riki's bed. His pet's question had driven a stake straight through his chest. Did Riki really think that Iason was capable of allowing such a thing? Miserable, he closed his eyes and let the tears flow. He didn't move until he felt the barest of feather-like touches on his jaw. Unashamed of his outward show of emotion, Iason lifted his head and stared sadly at his stunned pet.

 

Riki was shocked to see the great Blondie's sorrow and Iason's tears moved him more than he wanted to admit. Sighing softly, he dropped his hand. “I know you didn't,” he answered his own question. “But I really wanted to hear you say it yourself. I was so hurt when they said the order had come from - please stop crying!” Riki's lip trembled with the threat of his own tears. “I've never seen you cry before. Not for me.”

 

“I wept the day I found that Raoul had taken you from me,” Iason admitted, having finally recovered his voice. “I felt as though my life were over.”

 

“Really?”

 

Iason managed a small smile. “Of course.” His face turned grim as he took Riki's hand in his own once more. His pet had said that he knew, but Iason felt the need to say the words. “And to answer your question: no, I did not allow the police to fire their lasers. The men responsible went against my instructions and will be dealt with accordingly.”

 

Riki shivered as Iason's threat left his lips. He loved it when Iason spoke with authority. His elation, however, was short-lived as another thought entered his mind. “Shit,” he exclaimed and then coughed from the effort. “Iason, you have to go see Jupiter! Now that you know I'm okay, you have to go.”

 

Hurt, but sympathetic, Iason nodded and rose from Riki's side. “I understand,” he whispered.

 

Riki instantly recognized the expression and shook his head. “It isn't that I don't want you here,” he protested. “I don't want you to get into anymore trouble with Jupiter.”

 

Another small smile lit up Iason's face. “Truly?”

 

“Of course,” Riki scoffed lightly. “Come back as soon as you can.”

 

Bending down, Iason kissed Riki lightly on the mongrel's clammy forehead. “I'll be back soon,” he promised, brushing the dark, lank hair aside and tenderly cupping Riki's face.

 

* * *

 

To Iason's immense surprise, he was relatively calm as he approached Jupiter's inner sanctum. He knew she was furious; the red and orange aura that surrounded her sanctuary spoke volumes about her disposition. There were several times in his past that he had approached these doors with a mixture of both fear and apprehension; especially after he acquired Riki as a pet. She hadn't approved, but there was nothing in the General Code that forbade such actions. Iason almost smiled. She really hadn't approved when the rumors of his relationship with Riki surfaced. Yes, Iason had been a regular guest to Jupiter's anger in the past three years.

 

He paused for a moment, standing far enough away from the entrance that his unique signature would not register and open the door. It wasn't that he was frightened, but more that he was unsure of what he was going to say. Since the whippings, she had appended a handful of new rules to General Code. One of those stated that a master could keep their pet without approval from Jupiter. As unreasonable as she could be at times, he knew she would never go against one of her own edicts. Jupiter would not take Riki away from him.

 

He stiffened as a new thought entered his mind. She might not be able to force Iason to give him up, but she could have Riki arrested for the damage done to the Emporium. Though ultimately, it should be his fault, as Riki was his responsibility, Iason had no problem imagining Jupiter using this incident as a way to take Riki from him. Everyone believed that she made that particular rule for Iason, enabling him to keep Riki forever, but Iason was wary to trust her completely. He was half afraid that she did it to placate the Blondie until she could figure out another way to rip the two apart.

 

The doors to Jupiter's sanctuary hummed opened, and Iason visibly jumped in surprise as he hadn't moved an inch. His calm façade betrayed nothing as he stepped across the threshold and was immediately surrounded in her pulsing, crimson aura. Since the time that he had approached the doors, she had gone from furious to downright livid.

 

“I was wondering when you would find the courage to face me, Iason.” Her holographic body pulsed and her voice was as close to a hiss as a synthesized voice could be. “I finally grew wearily of waiting and decided to open the doors myself.”

 

He frowned as he bowed respectfully. Did she honest think him a weak and trembling fool, cowering in fear of presence? “My apologies,” he answered smoothly. “It was not out of trepidation that hesitated. I only paused to find the words to adequately explain my actions.”

 

“There are no words that would suffice,” she snapped back.

 

Iason didn't answer and quickly tuned her out as she continued with a stern lecture. What was the point of listening to her words? They were no doubt about Riki and Iason's inability to let him go. Nodding at appropriate intervals, the Blondie's thoughts turned back to his injured pet. What was he going to do with him? Though he didn't wish to punish the mongrel any further, the incident with the police needed to be addressed. Riki needed to understand that this type of trouble was exactly what Jupiter and the other Elite wanted. If they weren't careful, they would be separated, and, while Iason was fairly certain he could escape any penalties, he was also sure that Riki would not. He shivered at the thought of the mongrel in even more pain.

 

Jupiter studied Iason's expression with a mixture of regret and anger. She did not wish to be angry with Iason, but she had reached her capacity to understand his unusual behavior. For over twenty years he had served her faithfully and nothing - not one incident - had ever tarnished his flawless record. Jupiter had known the moment he was created that he would be different. When Iason was old enough to attend the Elite Academy, she ordered Headmaster Sung to look after him especially. Even then, he had been a beautiful boy with blond hair so brilliant that it radiated with its own light and blue eyes deeper than clearest oceans of Amoi. Iason was her masterpiece; the epitome of perfection. In another aspect, she was his mother, and mothers doted on their sons.

 

As he grew, she couldn't have been more proud of him. Not only was he the most beautiful of all the Blondie Elites both past and present, but he was also perfect in every other way. Iason was intelligent, honest and kind. His charisma drew others toward him effortlessly, and he was a natural leader. Jupiter had known since before he went to the Academy that he would become the next Syndicate Head. She would have given him the position sooner, but she was reluctant to show favor. It wasn't that she didn't favor him, but she was concerned about relation. Jupiter couldn't stand the thought of her precious Iason harmed because of her actions and the other Elites' jealousy.

 

Despite what others might have thought, Jupiter was aware of everything. She knew about the illicit trysts between Raoul and Iason. Although it was forbidden, Jupiter understood the sexual needs of her creations. She understood, and that was why Raoul and Iason received only a whipping in their academy days. Not because she didn't want them to pair, but because they had dared to do so in public where they could have been seen. The laws were not there to deprive her children of carnal pleasures, but to ensure they were not ostentatious. The Elite were not mongrels. She would not condone rutting on the streets like animals. Besides, did her children truly believe that she was so blind that she was unaware of their relationships with their pets? She knew that Iason was not first to taste the fruit from that forbidden tree.

 

No, she did not consider the relationship between Iason and Raoul a blight on his perfect record. She even stood by him when he took the life of Anori Khosi, believing it to be perfectly within their laws of blood-vengeance. And while she hadn't exactly approved when three of her Blondies - Iason included - raped a young Aristian woman, she placed the majority of the blame on Yousi and Omaki. They had captured the woman, hoping to use her to tempt Iason. Jupiter knew that he had felt terrible afterward and later compensated the female for the humiliation he had brought upon her.

 

It wasn't until Iason brought the mongrel home that she experienced his first act of rebellion. And here it was, three years later, and he was as defiant as ever, going so far as to ignore a formal summons. Jupiter had read countless of accounts regarding the emotions of jealousy, and it was the only explanation she had for the sensations she felt toward Iason's mongrel pet. She was fond of Iason. Though she would never know his physical love, she had always hoped to have his loyalty. And Riki had even managed to steal that from her when Iason planned sedition in order to keep him from her.

 

Jupiter had been silent for several seconds, but Iason continued to nod as though listening to a silent conversation in his mind. “Iason, are you even paying attention?”

 

He nodded appropriately. “Of course.”

 

For the first time in since she had known Iason Mink, she was sickened by the sight of him. She wanted him out of her chambers. She was tempted to order him back to the whipping post, but, with much effort, she was able to control her rage. “Iason Mink, you have severely disappointed me,” she said. To her surprise, rather than anger, she sounded almost weary. “Excuse yourself from my chambers until I devise a suitable punishment for your transgressions.”

 

Bowing deeply, Iason nodded. “As you wish,” he said humbly before he rose, turned, and quietly made his way to the exit.

 

“And please summon Raoul Am to my chambers immediately. He is waiting outside.”

 

At this, Iason nearly stumbled in shock. “Raoul?” he whispered in disbelief.

 

“Yes.” Jupiter eyed him suspiciously. “I have much to discuss with him.”

 

It took everything in Iason's power to control his trembling as he bowed a final time and quickly escaped her inner sanctum. This was not a good development. In the history of their society, not once had anyone beside the Head of the Syndicate been allowed to enter Jupiter's chambers. Iason wasn't even sure what to make of her request. Was she planning to replace him? Was she plotting something? Although he still considered Raoul a friend, he knew the terrifying Blondie had little patience when it came to Riki. Was there a way around a law that could take him away from Iason if Raoul were Head of the Syndicate?

 

As Iason turned the corner, he spotted Raoul leaning casually against the wall. Several emotions flooded through him as he approached with Jupiter's message. “Jupiter wishes to speak with you,” he hissed coldly through clenched teeth. To his shock, Raoul actually looked surprised.

 

“Wait, you mean…face to face?” The Blondie suddenly looked as though he would be ill.

 

Still suspicious, Iason's eyes narrowed. “You were unaware?”

 

“Of course I was unaware!” Raoul roared. His disbelief painted plainly upon his face. “Did you honestly think I would go behind your back to undermine your authority?”

 

Pinching the bridge of his nose, Iason sighed. “I don't know what to think,” he admitted.

 

Raoul stepped forward and placed a comforting hand upon his former pairing partner's shoulder. “I know we've had many disagreements in the past, but I do respect you. I have never once coveted your position. There is not another man more capable than you, Iason.”

 

Feeling a bit better, Iason smiled and placed his hand over Raoul's, giving it a gentle squeeze. Perhaps he was allowing his fears to get the better of him. All he could he think about was Riki and the possibility that he might lose him. Whatever he was feeling, it wasn't fair to take it out on Raoul. “Forgive me,” he muttered, dropping his arm.

 

“I thought you didn't believe in apologies?” Raoul teased. His smile vanished as quickly as it had come. “I will help you in anyway that I can,” he promised. And with that, he disappeared down the hall.

 

* * *

 

“Hey,” Katze said quietly, entering Riki's darkened room. “Are you awake, you bastard?”

 

“No.”

 

Snorting in amusement, Katze pulled a chair next to the mongrel's bed and made himself comfortable. For several moments, neither spoke.

 

“Are you enjoying the view?” Riki taunted after awhile, shifting his position on the bed to ease the pressure on his chest.

 

“Don't flatter yourself,” Katze chuckled. “You look like shit, Riki.”

 

Any other day, Riki would have laughed, but he couldn't summon the energy to find anything humorous today. “I feel like shit.”

 

Immediately, Katze's eyes lost their friendly twinkle, and he stared at the mongrel with barely suppressed rage. “You should feel like shit,” he nearly snarled. “Do you have any idea how much trouble you caused?”

 

“Spare me the lecture,” Riki snapped back. “I don't want to hear it.”

 

Furious, Katze stood up so quickly that his chair slammed back into the wall before it tumbled to the ground. “That's your biggest problem,” he hissed. “You never want to hear it because you can't stand to face the fucking truth!”

 

“Truth?” Suffering from a combination of both physical and emotional pain, Riki was nearly hysterical. “What truth!? That I'm filthy? That I'm a fuck up? That I'm worthless? Tell me something I don't know, Katze, and quit wasting my fucking time.”

 

Whirling to face him, Katze clenched his fists in an effort to control the urge to pummel the mongrel. “If you don't care about your own fucking life, that's fine, but quit trying to bring Iason down with you!”

 

“Katze?”

 

Jerking his head toward the sound of his name, his eyes instantly softened to see Daryl and Ayuda standing in the doorway.

 

“We thought we heard shouting,” Ayuda explained, his eyes travel between the two distraught young men.

 

“It's fine,” Riki spat angrily, glaring at the auburn-haired eunuch. “Katze was just leaving.”

 

Crossing his impressive arms over his chest, the black-market leader returned Riki's glower with one of his own. “No, I'm not. Not until we have that discussion.”

 

White-hot rage consumed Riki as he struggled to breathe through the agony in his chest. How dare Katze march into his room and try to lecture him! Though Iason demanded his submission and often humiliated him before the household, Riki was not weak, and he had grown angry at everyone's whispered speculations behind his back. Here, now, they were going to get everything out in the open. “This isn't about the incident at the Emporium, is it Katze? This is about you and your fucking infatuation with Iason!”

 

Katze froze in shock, before he literally dove for Riki's neck. If Ayuda hadn't been close, he might have killed Iason's precious pet. “That's enough!” Ayuda shouted, pinning Katze's arms behind his back.

 

“You bastard!” Katze shouted, struggling against the iron bands wrapped around him. “You fucking ungrateful prick!” He wanted to kill him. How could he have said that in front of Daryl!? His struggles ceased immediately, however, when Daryl quickly ran to Riki's side and placed a gentle hand upon his chest.

 

“Please,” he begged the mongrel, “you need to calm down! Sir Heiku said that you mustn't put stress on your heart!”

 

Riki gasped as his chest exploded in pain. His energy escaped him at Daryl's touch and he groaned as he slumped back against the hospital bed.

 

“You both need to calm down,” Ayuda chided as he cautiously released Katze. “Now, if there is something to be discussed, I suggest you two go at it like gentlemen.”

 

Rubbing his sore shoulders, Katze swallowed hard to control the anger and bitterness that threaten to rise again. As much as his pride hurt him, Ayuda was right. They were letting their emotions get the better of them. Riki was still in a lot of pain, and Katze suddenly felt remorse at the way he had come in and immediately attacked. “I'm not infatuated with Iason,” he said softly, looking straight at Daryl to ensure his sincerity was received.

 

“That wasn't what I meant,” Riki rasped, coughing lightly. His face twisted in pain for several seconds before he could catch his breath. “You just want to lecture me about how lucky I should feel for being Iason's plaything.”

 

“You should feel lucky,” Katze growled. He softened once again as Daryl stepped over toward him and gently took his hand.

 

“Listen to me,” Riki pleaded, his voice wavering as he closed his eyes. “Both you and Daryl are free men. Tell me why you worship him so much.”

 

Daryl and Katze exchanged a quick look of confusion before they shrugged simultaneously. “We owe Iason everything,” Katze answered. “That includes our freedom.”

 

“I get that,” Riki said with a nod. “But who were you before you became free men? Before you were Iason's furniture, were you pets?”

 

“I was,” Katze admitted, “but I was modified by my former master when I became too old for his tastes. Iason purchased me soon after that.”

 

Daryl blushed as he played with the hem of his shirt. “I was never a pet,” he said shyly, ashamed to admit his past. “I was one of two pets who didn't sell at our first auction. We were both immediately modified and sent to new masters. Iason saved me from my last master when he witnessed him beating me senseless.”

 

Riki frowned, feeling sorry for the grey-eyed youth. Daryl was such a kind and gentle soul. He would have made a wonderful pet. “Neither of you see where I'm going with this, do you?”

 

“I do,” Ayuda chimed in, flashing the mongrel a sympathetic look. “I was born on Arista. I chose my profession.” Riki gave him a grateful smile.

 

“Okay, okay,” Katze snorted softly. “Please enlighten the rest of us.”

 

Riki sighed. “You were both bred to please your Blondie masters; you never knew another life. The reason you both are so grateful to Iason is because he treated you well and gave you freedom.”

 

Daryl nodded, understanding a bit, but Katze shook his head. “Riki,” he said in exasperation, “Iason gives you everything! No other pet gets away with half the shit you do. You have a Zerovian for Jupiter's sake! Do you know how many Elite can't afford to drive that thing? You have a bike, a credit portfolio -”

 

“But I don't have my freedom,” Riki interrupted. He turned his head, gazing longingly out the window toward Ceres. “I'm not saying that Iason isn't great, but when he found me, I was a free man. Yeah, you're right. I didn't have possessions to my name, but I had my independence. I could walk out and gaze up at the stars whenever I pleased. I could pair with whomever I wanted, or not pair for weeks if I didn't feel like it. I could get stupid drunk and get in a fight, and all I had to do to avoid getting punished was to not get caught by the Midas police.”

 

Daryl sighed softly. “I think I finally see your point,” he said.

 

“What about you Ayuda?” Riki turned hopeful eyes toward the bodyguard. “How would you feel if you were suddenly snatched from your home, taken away from your friends, and forced to masturbate on command? What if you were stripped naked, chained, and then whipped every time you disagreed with your master? I'll admit, the penthouse is nice, but even the furniture get to go out into the market. I'm stuck there every single day with nothing to do except be a fucking sex toy on command. I can't even jerk off without Iason's fucking permission.”

 

Ayuda nodded, shrugging at Katze's incredulous stare. “He's right, you know,” he said softly. “If it were me, I'd go crazy.”

 

Sighing in defeat, Katze pinched the bridge of his nose in irritation. “Okay, Riki,” he said after a few minutes. “I've listened to your argument, now listen to mine. I can't sympathize with your situation because you're right, I've never been truly free. However, I do feel anger at the way you treat Iason. If you don't know that he loves you, then you are complete fool.”

 

Riki slumped against his pillows once more with a small nod. “I know he does.”

 

“And do you love him?”

 

Riki nodded again.

 

“Here is the point that I'm trying to get across,” Katze said as he picked up his chair from earlier and set it upright. “Riki, what has loving Iason cost you?”

 

“My freedom,” Riki answered without hesitation.

 

Crossing his arms again, Katze leaned forward in his seat. “Has it really?” he asked, narrowing his eyes. “Didn't Iason grant you your freedom? Didn't you tell him that you wanted to stay?”

 

Riki frowned, but there was no denying the truth Katze's words. Iason had told him that he would release him, but Riki knew that he couldn't be free and have Iason at the same time. The decision hadn't taken him more then a few seconds to make. Releasing a soft sigh, Riki nodded.

 

“So in the end, your love cost you your freedom, but it was a decision made by you out of love for Iason.” Katze smiled triumphantly at Riki's thoughtful expression. “You're free to love Iason with no consequences. And as much as I wonder what the fuck he sees in you, Iason loves you back.”

 

The others laughed as Riki scowled and stuck his tongue out toward Katze. “Asshole,” he muttered.

 

Katze's face grew serious once more. “But Iason's love for you has cost him everything,” he nearly whispered. The room grew silent at this. “Riki, you can love Iason and no one cares. Hell, everyone expects it! But because of Iason's love for you, he's been ridiculed, reprimanded, whipped…” His voice trailed off sadly.

 

Turning his head back toward the window, Riki bit his lip as he contemplated Katze's words. He couldn't deny that Iason loved him; the Blondie told him far too many times a day. But what had Iason's love cost him? Frowning, Riki closed his eyes and searched his memories, recalling the first day he had met the Head of the Syndicate. Like a holographic movie, he watched their relationship as it developed over a span of three years. Jupiter's disproval was first and foremost, but Iason also lost his trust in one of his oldest friends. Raoul. Riki's eyes widened in horror as he thought of everything Iason had endured over the past three years: humiliation, ridicule, shame, and finally…the whippings. He hadn't proved anything by crashing his bike into the Emporium. All he managed to do was further complicate Iason's life.

 

“I can tell by your expression that you're finally realizing the extent of what Iason's gone through.” Katze's voice had softened immensely from its earlier angry tone. “Can't you see, Riki? Everything he has, it means nothing to him if you aren't a part of his life. He'd give up everything for you. Can you say the same? Isn't your freedom a small price to pay for Iason's love?”

 

Ayuda and Daryl exchanged a strange look as large tears trickled down Riki's face. Daryl and Ayuda both had seen the mongrel weep on many occasions in the past, usually while he was enduring a punishment in one form or another. There was no shame in that. Tears were a natural response to physical pain, and, as much pain as Riki had gone through in his three years, Daryl was more than impressed by the former Bison leader's strength and stubbornness. On those rare occasions, however, when Daryl had been witness to Riki's genuine agony, he couldn't help that his heart ached in sympathy.

 

“You're lucky, Riki,” Katze continued softly. “Everyone envies you.”

 

That did it. Ayuda sucked in a sharp breath of shock as Riki's dark eyes instantly flashed with fury. “What the fuck are you talking about?” he growled.

 

A bit startled by the sudden shift in his mood, Katze paused and took a step back. “What -?”

 

“Envies me?” Riki nearly shrieked. “You honestly think anyone is jealous of me!? Fuck, Katze! My life is miserable, not just because I'm a fucking pet, but because I'm Iason's fucking pet!”

 

Daryl stepped forward to try and calm the mongrel once more, but Riki shook him off.

“Everyone in Tanagura treats me like the mongrel I am and hate me because they think I've bewitched Iason somehow. There are others who would harm me because they think it would harm Iason.” Riki's face was red as he continued to scream. “My own kind thinks I've sold my soul so that I could sit in the lap of luxury! Being forced to be a pet was humiliating, but being Iason's pet ruined my fucking life!”

 

“Riki!”

 

Everyone fell silent as Iason stepped through the entrance. Although ashamed to admit it, he had been listening silently outside of Riki's room for quite some time. It wasn't in his nature to eavesdrop, but he couldn't pass up the opportunity to try and truly understand what darkness the mongrel held within his heart. His own chest had ached when he heard Riki's rant. Had he really hurt his precious pet that badly? Iason had never really thought about what he was taking from Riki, just what he could give him. The Blondie had always wanted the best for him, not only because he loved him, but because he believed Riki deserved it.

 

“…being Iason's pet ruined my fucking life!”

 

The great Blondie's heart had nearly shattered at those words, and he knew that if he didn't make his presence known immediately, he would lose control of his own volatile emotions.

 

“Mater Iason,” Daryl was the first to speak.

 

“I would like to speak to Riki alone,” Iason commanded softly, moving to the side in an obvious dismissal. He was pleased when the three seemed to understand and quickly brushed past him on their way out the door. Moving to the side of the bed, Iason pulled Katze's chair closer, sat down, and carefully gathered Riki's trembling hand in his own.

 

“So how much of that did you hear?” Riki asked through clenched teeth, apparently still hurt and angry from the conversation.

 

Squeezing his hand gently, Iason looked his pet straight in the eye. He had never lied to Riki and he was not about to start now. “Most of it.”

 

It was several minutes before he felt Riki's hand relax. He sighed, “I guess it was nothing you haven't heard before.”

 

Iason swallowed a lump in his throat, but remained silent. So many emotions were running rampant in his frame that he couldn't process them all. Breathing deeply to calm to his mind, he lifted Riki's hand to his mouth and gently kissed his knuckles.

 

“What's with that look on your face?” Riki asked suspiciously, studying his Blondie master.

 

“You need to rest, Riki,” Iason answered evasively. Mindful of the many tubes and wires connected to the mongrel, he carefully laid Riki's hand back onto the bed. Surprised flashed across his features as he felt his pet tightly grasp the sleeve of his tunic.

 

“No, wait,” Riki pleaded, desperately clinging to his master's sleeve. “Please, Iason, tell me what's wrong.”

 

Iason wanted to refuse, but he could never say no to those dark, rebellious eyes. Couldn't Riki see how much power he held over the Elite Blondie? Turning his head, Iason fixed his gaze upon a random point of light out the small window. “Why did you choose to stay with me?” he asked, almost in a whisper.

 

Riki turned confused eyes toward him, but he refused to meet his gaze. “Don't you remember what I said?”

 

“You said you loved me and you wanted to be with me,” Iason answered promptly. How could he forget? It was the happiest day of his entire life. It was day that Riki had finally given him his whole heart.

 

“Well, then you have your answer.” Riki closed his eyes.

 

“I heard you,” Iason pressed, his voice now carried a slight timbre of sorrow. “You told Katze that being my pet ruined your life.”

 

The mongrel released an exasperated sigh. “Iason, didn't you listen to that conversation at all? Yes, I said that, but I think you misunderstood the whole point.”

 

“Then explain it to me.”

 

Riki sighed again. He wanted to roll over and go to sleep. He wanted to ignore the question and hope that the Blondie would forget about it, but he couldn't. A part of him wanted Iason to understand. “I didn't mean that you ruined my life because you've been horrible to me. No matter how many times I say I love you, you don't believe me or you question me. But it's true, I do love you. My life is ruined because I'm hated by everyone. If they don't hate me for being your pet, then they hate me for being a mongrel.” To his shock, Iason chuckled softly as he sat back and crossed his long legs.

 

“Oh, Riki,” he sighed. “You really don't know just how similar we are.”

 

“Similar?” Riki's brow wrinkled in confusion.

 

Iason nodded. “From a very young age, I was chosen to be the next Head of the Syndicate. When Jupiter made that decision, she passed over many Elite who felt they were more qualified.”

 

“Better than you?” Riki snorted his amusement. “Not likely.”

 

Iason smiled, taking a moment to savor the compliment. “As Bison leader, you should know how difficult it is to please everyone. Every decision I've made, every task I've performed for Jupiter; I've made many enemies during my time as the Syndicate Head. Not only on Amoi, but in other sectors as well.” Something familiar flashed through Iason's beautiful blue eyes as he stared down at his pet. “I too find it difficult to extend my trust. I can never be certain if they are interested in me or in what I can do for them with my position. In every conversation, I have to analyze what is being said, searching for possible threats to Amoi, or myself personally.”

 

Pain tore at Riki's heart when he realized that he recognized the emotion that darkened the endless blue of Iason's eyes. It was loneliness. Iason was lonely, just like he was. The moment he saw how foolish he had been, large tears gathered in Riki's eyes and spilled over his gaunt cheeks.

 

“Riki?” Iason dropped to his knees beside the mongrel's bed and quickly grasped his hand. “What it is, love? Tell me what happened?”

 

Ashamed that he let his emotions get the better of him, Riki shook his head and closed his eyes. “I'm such a fucking idiot, Iason,” he choked out miserably. “You should have told the police to shoot me down and saved yourself all this trouble.” Instantly, he felt Iason's fingers on his face, forcing him to gaze straight into the Blondie's eyes.

 

“Don't ever say that!” he nearly roared, his face a mask of horror at the thought. “Don't you understand, Riki? I can't live without you! If your life were to be extinguished, I would gladly follow suit!”

 

The confession was heartfelt and Riki knew he meant it, but it only made him feel worse. Searching for a less distressing topic, another thought crossed his anxious mind. “Was Jupiter angry?”

 

Caressing the mongrel's face, Iason managed a small shrug. “She was…exacerbated.”

 

“Right,” Riki chuckled lightly. “Is that a fancy Blondie way of saying she was pissed as all hell?”

 

For the first time that evening, Iason managed a genuine smile. “Yes, she was angry.”

 

Riki's face dropped. “Is she going to punish you? What did she say?”

 

“Such concern,” the Blondie teased, although he was deeply touched. “I am awaiting her summons.”

 

“Shit, Iason,” the mongrel seemed to deflate before his very eyes, “no matter how hard I try or how much I care, I keep fucking up your life. I hate it. I hate how I mess everything up for you. I-”

 

Iason ended his tirade with a soft kiss, and Riki instantly melted in the familiar embrace, slipping his fingers into the Blondie's beautiful hair. Iason explored him tenderly for several seconds before pulling away and pressing his lips to Riki's erratic pulse. Chuckling as the throb beneath the mongrel's skin matched the frantic pace of the heart monitor, Iason planted a kiss on his forehead and sat comfortably back in his chair. “That's enough,” he scolded gently. “Riki, before you came into my life, I merely existed. You don't `mess' everything up. Many times, you are the best part of my day.”

 

“Only because you're a fucking pervert who gets off on spanking people,” Riki scowled.

 

Iason couldn't help it. He burst into laughter. “Not people,” he chuckled once he regained a semblance of control, “just you.”

 

The mood quickly abated as a gentle knock disrupted their mirth and two Blondies entered the room. Both Riki and Iason frowned, annoyed that their precious time together had been interrupted yet again. Always the perfect gentlemen, Iason stood and nodded a greeting to their guests while Riki managed to deepen his scowl.

 

“You're improving quickly,” Heiku commented as he moved toward the machines and quickly checked Riki's vitals. “I'm just going to look things over.”

 

Nodding once more toward the doctor, Iason turned his attention to the other man that still stood in the aperture. “Raoul,” he acknowledged quietly.

 

Feeling a bit out of place in the mongrel's hospital room, Raoul shifted uncomfortably from one foot to another, searching for something to say. “Jupiter wants to see you, Iason,” he finally said after several minutes of tense silence. “She asks that you come immediately.”

 

Riki's eyes widened in shocked as his eyes moved rapidly between Iason and Raoul. “Wait,” he stammered, still stunned by Raoul's words, “Jupiter spoke to Raoul!? What the fuck?”

 

“Riki!” Iason scolded, gracing the mongrel with a smoldering look. “Do not address Lord Am in such a disrespectful manner!” His eyes gave a warning so clear that Riki immediately shut his mouth.

 

Weary of the whole situation, Raoul sighed and ignored the angry glower that the mongrel was sending his way. “You need to go see her, Iason,” he pleaded.

 

“Has she reached a decision concerning my punishment?” he asked carefully, studying Raoul's face for a clue. The other Blondie merely shrugged and turned his head, avoiding Iason's piercing gaze. This couldn't be good. Whatever it was Jupiter discussed with Raoul, it obviously upset him. Iason knew that his former pairing partner still carried a torch for him, and to see him anxious about his well-being brought a stab of fear to Iason's heart. “I see,” he said softly.

 

“Just go talk to her,” Raoul said once more.

 

Riki knew that he should just keep his big mouth shut, but he couldn't bear the thought of Iason facing Jupiter's wrath alone. The last time he had, Riki almost lost him forever. “Please, Iason,” he begged, trying to pull the wires and tubes from his battered body, “take me too. Take me to see Jupiter with you.”

 

A bit surprised by his request, Iason gently restrained him and brushed back his lank hair. “You are very considerate, pet,” he smiled, “but no one is allowed within Jupiter's inner sanctum except the Head of the Syndicate.”

 

Riki's eyes snapped toward Raoul with a look of absolute disdain. “What about him?”

 

What about him, indeed? Iason thought to himself. Shrugging lightly, he bent down to plant a chaste kiss on lips. “I will return shortly.”

 

“Do you promise?” Riki's eyes glinted with both fear and hope. “And don't give me that shit about not being able to predict the future.”

 

Iason's eyes widen a bit at the reference and he couldn't help the small smile that lifted his lips. “You actually listened to me?” he asked, amazed.

 

“Of course I did,” Riki snapped. “I thought it was another excuse you were feeding me so that you wouldn't feel guilty about fucking the commander.”

 

Heiku coughed lightly to cover his laughter, burying his face into Riki's medical charts.

 

“Do not think that I won't spank you, Riki, injured or not, if you speak to me in that manner again,” Iason said sternly, but with an unmistakable twinkle in his eye. It was hard to be serious when he was so thrilled by his pet's obvious concern.

 

“Yeah, yeah,” Riki grumbled before turning those impossibly black toward him once more. “Promise?”

 

Ignoring Raoul's obvious discomfort at the affection display, Iason nodded before kissing Riki's cheek. “Yes, pet,” he crooned softly. “You have my word.”

 

* * *

 

A/N: I just wanted to take this quick opportunity to say, “wow” to all the readers. I had no idea this one shot would become such a hit! There are not adequate words to express my heartfelt gratitude!

 

My only apology is that I adopted a new method of writing where I promised myself I'd have at least a rough draft of the entire story finished before I did my first post. This was so I didn't write myself into a corner or drag out the updates to months and months. Since I never dreamed I would ever get to finish this one, it's not prewritten, so the updates may take a bit longer. But I hope you enjoy, I'm already very busy on Chapter Three where Iason will come face to face with Jupiter who puts an interesting offer on the table. Thanks again!

 

Thank you for the wonderful reviews! I can't describe how ecstatic I am that the readers seemed to enjoy the first chapter! I'm seriously grinning right now!

 

Regards ~ clnv