Weiss Kreuz Fan Fiction ❯ Building Our Tomorrow ❯ Revelations and Confrontations: Part I ( Chapter 5 )

AN: Well, here's chapter 5. This chapter ends the plague of time gaps found. From here on out, I'm pretty much following the order of episodes from Kapitel, except I'm throwing out episode 1 (since it was only an introductory episode) and I'm going to obviously add a lot and change things around. I'm also giving the ages out again this one last time, so there won't be any confusion, though I was very anal about keeping the ages correct in previous chapters. Omi 17, Nagi 15, Schu 25, Yohji 24, Ran/Aya 20, Ken 19, Farf 20, Crawford 33, Aya-chan 18, Sakura 17, Ouka 19, Manx 35. I think that's everyone relatively important. This chapter is actually the first of a three part segment, so there will be some things left open. Also, I'll be posting a side story when I post chapter 6; it won't be crucial to the plot, but if you want to see how Omi and Nagi got together, you'' have to read it. One last thing, Farf is now his one-eyed self and how it happened will be explained later.

 

Disclaimer: I thought it might be a good idea to slip the disclaimer in every few chapters. WK is owned by Koyasu Takehito and Project Weiss. I'm not getting anything monetary from this, and trying to get any money from me might get you a quarter plus lawyer fees.

 

Reviews

Splitpersona: Thanks again, especially on pointing me in the direction of German names. With regards to the Omi blackmailing Aya thing, I don't see it so much as blackmail as the two have come to an understanding. That was the whole point about saying everyone has their secrets and pasts. Omi and Aya just happen to know part of each others'. They respect one another and have a tentative friendship; that will become clearer as the story progresses. I really don't see Aya being able to trust someone with his life were blackmail involved.

 

Warnings: Violence, language, LEMON

 

 

Internal Dialogue

Telepathy

 

Chapter 5

 

Aya… It's been two years, and you still haven't opened your eyes. The Weiss assassin sat in a plastic chair near his comatose sister's bed. She had been moved to this facility once he had agreed to work for Kritiker; they were also footing the bill, not the mention the fact that the organization was his way to revenge. Picking up a cold, limp hand, Aya continued watching his sister, silently hoping that today would be the day she awakened. I know it's false hope, but what else other than vengeance do I really have? Amethyst eyes narrowed as his thoughts turned dark. You took everything from me Takatori; you will pay. Giving his sister's hand a gentle squeeze, he slowly rose from the chair.

 

“I'll be back soon,” the crimson haired man promised aloud. As Aya left the room, he paused to give one last look at his sister before exiting the room and the building. As he walking down the sidewalk towards the parking garage, he felt someone run into him from behind.

 

“Watch where you're going,” he growled while turning around. Noticing the small girl on the ground behind him, his expression softened slightly. “You should be more careful.”

 

“I'm sorry, sir,” the little girl replied. As she looked up at him, he saw the tears in her eyes. “It's just that I've been looking everywhere for my brother. His name is Jun, and he's been missing for over a week.” More tears fell as she produced a picture. “This is his picture. Have you seen him?” It was a picture of an average looking Japanese teenager. Looking over the picture carefully, Aya shook his head.

 

“I haven't seen anyone that looks like that,” Aya replied. “I'm sorry I couldn't help,” he added when the girl's face dropped.

 

“If you do see him, please tell him I miss him and to come home,” she pleaded with the normally cold man. This situation, though, brought about sympathy; the girl's attitude reminded him of his sister before the coma.

 

“I will,” he stated. “Good luck with your search.” The girl nodded her thanks and continued on her way. Aya stood on the sidewalk a moment longer before heading into the parking area and getting into his car; he was going to be late for his shift in the flower shop if he didn't hurry. As it turned out, he needn't have worried about being late as the only one watching the store was Momoe. There must be a mission, he thought as he turned towards the direction of the lower level. Arriving in the mission room, he saw Ken sprawled on the couch, Omi in his customary spot by the computer and Yohji lounging near the stairs, cigarette in hand. Taking his usual position against the wall with arms crossed, he waited for Manx to begin.

 

“Now that everyone is here,” she began, “I'll play the mission tape.” Manx pushed the tape into the VCR and pressed play; Persia's silhouette appeared, and the altered voice was heard. Apparently, someone known as Hikage was running a Human Chess game, where powerful politicians along with other rich spectators wagered on the lives of the lower class. Their mission was to find out who this Hikage was, kill him and put a stop to these atrocious acts.

 

“You have your mission Weiss; hunt the tomorrows of these dark beasts.” The playback ended, leaving the room in silence.

 

“Are you all in?” the green-eyed woman asked while observing them.

 

“I'm out,” Yohji stated, not giving his usual excuse of no women being involved. It's the anniversary of Asuka's death. I can't do this tonight, he thought as he walked up the stairs.

 

“Anyone else?” Manx asked, looking around. She knew what today was and hadn't expected the blonde to go on the mission. A chorus of “I'm in.” was heard from the rest of the team.

 

“Good,” she nodded and handed a folder to Omi. “These are the mission details along with a way into the arena for each of you.” Assured that three remaining would get the job done, she too left the mission room.

 

“This is all fairly straight forward,” Omi started after looking through the folder. “I'll be going in as a waiter. Aya, you'll be one of the game players, and Ken, you will be backup. The only way we have to identify our target is a birthmark that appears on his forehead when he gets excited, so we'll need to be prepared for it to be anyone.” Two nods of affirmation were giving before the three young men separated, each going to perform their own pre-mission rituals.

 

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Schuldig found himself entering a run-down bar in a rather seedy part of Tokyo. Why the hell would Brad want me to be in a place like this, I'll never know, but he said it was crucial. Looking around, the red head spied an empty table in the corner that would allow him to observe anything and everyone in the building. The German took a seat after buying some cheap beer; he hated the stuff, but this place didn't have any variety, and what little it did have was all crap. Settling himself for what looked to be long night of waiting, he once again tried to determine why he was there. Distracted with his thoughts, he didn't see the man approaching.

 

“Schuldig?” a voice interrupted his contemplation. “What are you doing here?” Blue eyes looked up in surprise to meet a familiar, if not welcome face. Brad, you son of a bitch, he gave an internal laugh.

 

“I could ask you the same question, Yohji.” The red head responded. “But I'm here, and you're here, so what does it matter. Care to join me?” Schuldig gestured to the empty chair across from him. Yohji shrugged and took the offered seat. Maybe he can help me forget about Asuka, if just for tonight. I still regret the way things ended with him.

 

“Maybe,” Schuldig muttered, not realizing Yohji had not spoken aloud. Fortunately, Yohji didn't notice the slip.

 

“So, it's been a few years,” the blonde began awkwardly.

 

“Yeah…” Schuldig trailed off. Both men were at a loss for words.

 

“Schu?” “Yotan?” They spoke at the same time, causing a laughter that broke the tension.

 

“You first,” Yohji offered.

 

“It's just that, well, I've missed you. I know it's been a long time, but I've never really forgotten you, even when I was with someone else.” Though some of that's probably Brad's fault, but still… His thoughts trailed off as he looked into jade eyes.

 

“I haven't forgotten you, either, but…” Yohji wasn't sure how to explain about Asuka without hurting the other man.

 

“I understand,” Schuldig stopped him before he could start again. “You fell in love with someone else. I wouldn't have expected you to wait until the day we might have run into each other again. Are you happy?” Yohji sighed at the question as anguish filled his eyes. Schuldig could have easily determined what was causing the blonde such pain, but he chose to respect the man's privacy.

 

“No,” Yohji finally responded. “She was killed a couple of years ago, today. The bastards who did it are still free, so I can't let it go.” But maybe you can help me start to move on.

 

“I'm sorry,” he couldn't think of anything truly appropriate to say to that. Sure, he could offer to go out and kill everyone involved; it's not like Yohji could object to that. After all, they were in the same line of work, but Yohji didn't know that, yet. Anyway, Schuldig got the vague impression that Yohji wanted to exact his own revenge, a sentiment to which he could completely relate.

 

“You understand, don't you,” Yohji stated after a moment. He took a long drink from his glass before continuing. “I can see it in your eyes. You feel the same way about something that's happened in your past.” The red head nodded.

 

“Yeah, someone took something from me a long time ago, something I can never get back,” was the response. “All that remains is my desire to see those who took it destroyed.” Green eyes gazed into sympathetic blue eyes. Yes, Yohji thought, you know exactly how I feel.

 

“Let's get out of here,” Yohji suddenly spoke. “I don't feel like getting utterly wasted anymore.” The blonde stood from his chair, waiting for a response.

 

“Why not?” Schuldig replied. “We can walk around for a while and catch up on each other's lives.” Yohji agreed to this, and the men quickly left the filthy bar. It was still early, and neither had anything they would rather do than spend it in the other's company. Walking in random directions, they slowly got to know one another again. Yohji spoke of everything that happened after Schuldig had helped him move out his mother's home, leaving out his life as an assassin. Schuldig talked about what life was like being a bodyguard; he too left out the more questionable details. Finally, several hours later, the newly reacquainted men stopped on a bridge overlooking the Edogawa River.

 

“It's really peaceful here at this time of night,” the blonde quietly stated.

 

“Yeah,” Schuldig breathed out in agreement, not wanting to break the serenity of the moment. Two heads turned to face the other. Their gazes caught and were held for what seemed an eternity. As if in perfect sync, they slowly leaned in as mouths met in a gentle kiss. Arms wrapped around each other as the kiss became more passionate, until finally they broke apart, leaning their foreheads together.

 

“That was…” Yohji tried, breathing heavily.

 

“Yeah,” Schuldig whispered in complete agreement. “Do you want to…?” The red head let the implied question hang in the air. I really want this, to be with him again. I know he wants the same thing, but is he ready? Yohji pulled away slightly only to place a quick kiss on the red head's temple.

 

“We can go to my place,” he whispered in Schuldig's ear, the moist breath over the sensitive area sending a shiver through him. “It's not too far from here.” The two stayed in their embrace a moment longer before reluctantly giving up the contact to make their way to the Koneko no Sumu Ie, Schuldig's arm around Yohji's waste, the blonde draping an arm over his shoulders.

 

Schuldig and Yohji managed to make it all the way into Yohji's room before wrapping themselves around each other. Mouths met once again in a heated kiss; one of Schuldig's hands found it way underneath the blonde's shirt and began teasing the nipples erect, causing a deep moan. Yohji guided them towards his bed as he began trailing kisses along his partner's sensitive neck. They men tumbled to the bed as Schuldig struggled to remove the shirt blocking his view of a perfectly sculpted abdomen and chest. Not one to hinder any kind of undressing, Yohji obliged by sitting up enough to allow the shirt to slip over his head.

 

“You're perfect,” Schuldig breathed, taking in the sight of the half-nude man before him.

 

“And you're overdressed,” Yohji responded as he removed the red head's top. Bare chest against bare chest, the two enjoyed another deep kiss, tongues raging for dominance, though neither ever won. Red and blonde hair mingled together, a mere foreshadow of the events to come. Hands roamed up Schuldig's chest, sliding over his shoulders and down his back to meet with a cloth covered backside. A finger sipped teasingly beneath the waistband of the pants to feel bare skin.

 

“You still go without, I see” The green eyed man leered, a look which Schuldig returned. Yohji's finger disengaged from its teasing motion, and he dragged it across smooth skin to the German's front where it once again dipped beneath the waistband to brush against the tip of his member.

 

“Yotan…” Schuldig gasped, wanting more of the sensation. Obliging the read head, Yohji slowly began undoing the confining clothes, slipping them down long legs until the pants were removed only to be thrown to the side. Not wanting to be outdone, Schuldig returned the favor by removing the blonde's remaining clothes; he too had gone commando, mush to the delight of the telepath. Adjusting their position so that Yohji was underneath him, darkened blue eyes took a moment to drink in the beauty of the man displayed in front of him. He began grinding his groin again against Yohji's, eliciting an excited hiss. Slightly lowering himself, he began to lick a path down, pausing briefly at each pert nipple before continuing the journey south. All the while, the blonde was writhing beneath him, wanting the teasing actions to end, yet at the same time wanting nothing more than to continue this game. Hands grasped at red strands as a mouth finally reached its goal.

 

“Schu!” Yohji choked out as said man partially covered the dripping erection with his lips, swirling his tongue around the tip. Settling his hands on his lover's hips, Schuldig took in even more of the straining member and began bobbing his head, suckling and licking, teeth occasionally scraping over the hardened flesh. Eventually, Schuldig pulled completely off, and moved forward to straddle the man who was whimpering in protest over the lost sensations.

 

“What do you want, Yotan?” The German whispered into his ear.

 

“You,” the green-eyed man gasped out. “I want you inside me.” Make me remember what it feels like to be loved. Catching the stray thought, Schuldig initiated another searing kiss while Yohji reached into the bedside table, feeling around for the lubricant he kept there.

 

“How long has it been since you were with a man?” The telepath asked as he took the proffered tube.

 

“Long enough,” the blonde replied. Nodding his understanding, Schuldig squeezed some of the liquid into his hand then slowly began preparing Yohji with a single digit, massaging the man's insides until he felt he could add a second finger. Using a scissoring motion to further stretch the passage, he began to feel the muscles relax more. Pushing his fingers further in, he felt clenching as he brushed over a certain gland.

 

“Gaaah,” was heard as Yohji began to push back, wanting to feel that pleasure once more. Taking this as his cue, Schuldig inserted a third and final finger to complete the stretching. By the time he was finished preparing his lover, the blonde was moaning a writhing.

 

“Now,” Yohji moaned. “Do it now!” Never one to disappoint, the red head applied a generous amount of lube to his hardened member before positioning in himself at the waiting entrance.

 

“Nnngh,” the sound came from Schuldig as he swiftly entered the tight heat. Pausing to give the man beneath time to adjust, he opened his eyes to find emerald orbs gazing back at him. Placing his hands on either side of Yohji's head, the telepath leaned in for a slow, passionate kiss until he felt his partner move beneath him. Getting the message and using his forearms to hold his weight, Schuldig began a gentle but steady thrusting motion. Pressing their glistening bodies more fully together and trapping the blonde's erection, he resumed staring into beautiful jade eyes. Soft cries of pleasure echoed into the room as the pace was quickened and thrusts became deeper, Yohji wrapped long, deceptively strong legs around his lover's waist, pulling the man deeper inside. The blonde arched up to meet each thrust, until Schuldig once again hit that special place inside Yohji, sending electric shivers through his whole body. Repositioning himself to continuously hit that spot, a more frenzied pace was set until neither man could control themselves any longer. The repeated striking of his prostrate along with the unending friction caused by the entrapment of his member pushed Yohji over the edge first. Green eyes rolled back, and with a strangled cry, he spilled his seed between their flushed bodies. The tightening of muscles around his cock became too much for Schuldig, and he soon followed Yohji, emptying his essence into the blonde man with a final thrust, incoherent sounds leaving his mouth.

 

Neither man knew how much time passed as they basked in the afterglow. Finally, Schuldig slipped out of his lover and lay beside, and gathering the man in his arms, he noticed a tears trailing down from clouded green eyes.

 

“Yotan?” he whispered. “What's wrong?” It took a moment before the blonde replied.

 

“Nothing,” he said. “Everything is finally right.” I've finally started letting go, and I've rediscovered something I thought I could never have again. Snuggling further into the redhead's embrace, Yohji turned his gaze towards sapphire eyes.

 

“Stay with me?” Green eyes contained not a desperate plea but a hopeful one.

 

“Always,” the telepath promised. Belatedly grabbing a discarded piece of clothing, Schuldig hastily cleaned them up before pulling a blanket over their entwined bodies. As the two fell into a peaceful slumber, Schuldig had a final thought. This time, it will work out; I'll never let you push me away again.

 

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“Abyssinian, report,” a hushed voice came through his earpiece. He couldn't respond immediately as he was being led to an underground room by a woman who worked for Hikage. Once she answered his questions and explained the rules of the game, he finally afforded enough privacy to reply.

 

“I've just been led to the waiting area,” he whispered. “As I understand it, I may or may not be called out to fight.” Aya took a long look around the crowded room while giving his response. “Be on the look out for a red haired, blue-eyed woman wearing a white hat. She appears to work closely with Hikage.” During his observation of the room he noticed the large viewing screen; he saw a vaguely familiar face as a young man was shot and killed in the arena. Jun…Aya recalled the picture of this teen. Not allowing even a modicum of guilt in as he had a job to do, he returned to the task at hand. “This woman may be a secondary target; she seems to be heavily involved.”

 

“Understood,” Omi closed the conversation. As he looked for a suitable position to set up his equipment, the blonde teen saw the woman Aya had warned him of. She was standing to the right of a large, bald man. He could be the target. I'll have to make sure and keep track of him once I implement the plan. Finding a secluded area, he set up his computer and input the correct password, causing chaos to break out among the crowd. A voice was heard over the intercom demanding the surrender of Hikage as small explosions sounded. Keeping an eye on the red haired woman and the balding man, Omi finally heard what he had been waiting for.

 

“It's me; I am Hikage,” the overweight man shouted.

 

“You heard him,” a feminine voice joined in. “This is Hikage, and I am his assistant.” Omi set up for his shot, but his aim was blocked by people scrambling, trying to get out of the arena. During the confusion, Hikage's assistant slipped up to the game controls where she activated Aya's lift. The assassin was momentarily startled by the sudden movement, but collected himself before the ride came to halt. He had to wait but a moment for his opponent, who was wielding a spear, to be raised from below. Sprinting forward, the man set to attack Aya, only to be taken out by a single blow from a sheathed sword. On the control platform, the blue-eyed woman gave a cruel smile.

 

“You are truly skilled. I will have to find you a more worthy opponent.” Pressing a button on the mock chess board, another fighter was summoned from underground. She watched in sadistic pleasure as the man made to relentlessly attack Aya, each blow artfully dodged or sidestepped.

 

“Kill him!” she screamed becoming frustrated at the lack of aggression on the crimson haired man's part. Finally, Aya moved, kicking his leg out to trip the aggressor. “That's it,” the woman became excited. “Kill him, now!” She yelled in delight as a red oval shaped mark formed between her eyes. The swordsman noticed and approached the platform, seemingly ignorant of the gun the other pulled.

 

“I know who you are,” he stated as he pulled the sword out, swinging the sheath back to knock the gun from the man's hands. “You are Hikage, and I will put an end to your games.”

 

“Really, now… I don't think so. Let's see how you handle this,” pressing another button on the control panel, the floor collapsed beneath Aya. As he fell, he managed to grab hold of a support beam, stopping his descent. “Nice move,” came the false compliment. “But you won't be able to escape this.” Automated guns activated, aiming for the assassin, who let go of the beam in order to avoid the bullets. Wasting no time, he released some wire from the hilt of his sword, which caught on a beam near the ceiling, allowing him to swing back up and towards Hikage. As he was gliding through the air, his violet eyes caught a view of a man he long since desired revenge towards. Eyes glazed momentarily as he recalled the events surrounding his parents' deaths and his sister's coma. Coming to a stop on the edge of the platform, he ignored Hikage in favor of glaring at the politician standing next to a man in a cream-colored suit. The woman took this opportunity to run.

 

“What are you doing?!” Omi yelled over the earpiece. “She's the target, not that man.” Unfortunately, he added silently. He, however, knew it wasn't time to kill Takatori; why else would Crawford be there, if not to `protect' the man. Aya, though, didn't know this little fact. Jumping over the platform, he raised his sword, taking aim at the man who all but stole his life.

 

“Takatori…” he yelled. “Shiiineee!” His sword sliced through the air when it suddenly stopped as his wrists were grabbed and he was flipped onto his back. Looking up, he was met with the sight of a dark haired foreigner in the cream-colored suit, a man he had previously ignored.

 

“Mr. Takatori,” the man started. “I suggest we take our leave. It is no longer safe for you to remain here.” With that the two men left, but not before Omi made a token shot from his position in defense of Aya, which the American caught with ease. Show off, the blue-eyed teen thought in amusement before returning his attention to Aya's situation. Aya, thinking to pursue his nemesis, was unable to stand as a gun was shoved in his face; Hikage was back. As she was about to pull the trigger, a bolt struck the weapon, knocking it from her hand. The crimson haired man finished her with one well placed swing of his kitana. Looking through a window, he noticed the approach of a helicopter. Once again lost in his revenge against Takatori, Aya made his way to the roof, arriving just as the men were boarding.

 

“The mission's over, Aya!” Ken yelled as he grabbed the irate man from behind, holding him back and not releasing him until the helicopter took off. As soon as he was free of his teammate's grasp he futilely launched the sword in the air as Omi appeared on the roof.

 

“TAKATORI!!” his voice echoed into to the night. Ken and Omi stood by and watched; the former wondering what the hell was going on and the latter sympathizing with the infuriated man, silently cursing Takatori for ruining so many lives.

 

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Omi sat alone in the basement of the Koneko writing the report for the night's mission. There wasn't really mush to write: they went in, Aya had to participate in the game, they discovered the identity of Hikage, and Aya killed her. There was no way he was going to put Aya's little side venture in; that would cause more problems than it would solve seeing as how Persia would eat up that bit of information and use it to his advantage. No, Omi thought, I'll talk to Aya about it. This can stay between us. I've already got Ken to agree to leave it alone. Nodding to himself, he filed the report in the Kritiker database and shut the computer down.

 

Omi? Nagi's voice sounded in his head. Hey, Nagi. What's up? You weren't at themission were you? I didn't see you there, and I didn't feel your presence. It would have been nice, though, to have him there, like before all this started. No, it was just Crawford. But I did want to let you know that I will be there next time. Crawford mentionedhe saw us running into each other. Omi smiled to himself; it probably wasn't too important if Crawford wasn't stopping the meeting from occurring. By the way, Nagi continued. Crawford seemed in a really good mood tonight when he got back. He was nearly laughing as he came through the door. What happened? He wouldn't tell me. Had Nagi been in the room with him, he would have heard Omi giggle; as it was, some of the amusement slipped through their link. He was probably amused at my attempt to `shoot' him.As if I could ever catch him off guard that it would actually hit. I think he finds it humorous that I have to act like I'm actually trying to kill any of you. He felt Nagi's own amusement at that. I can so see that, what with that insane sense of humor he's got. A noise from upstairs caught his attention, reminding him that he needed to speak with Aya. Nagi, I have to go talk to Aya about what happened tonight. He is really pissed about not being to kill Takatori. A sense of understanding flowed through their bond. I know how he feels, but it's not time, yet.Oh, Crawford just said you need to tell Aya everything if things are going to work out. Nagi paused until he felt Omi had fully digested and accepted the new instructions.Are we still on for tomorrow? Nagi asked, changing the subject. They had a date planned for the next day; both teens were looking forward to it as it was the first time in two weeks either could get together; the thought of it caused Omi to relax somewhat. Definitely, Omi replied. I wouldn't miss it for anything. With that, they closed off their conversation.

 

Five minutes later found Omi knocking on the door to Aya's room. A grunt that sounded something like `Come in' was heard; Omi pushed open the door, slipped into the room, and closed the door behind him.

 

“Aya,” he started, “Can I talk to you for a minute?”

 

“What about?” the swordsman asked from his perch on the window.

 

“About what happened tonight on the mission,” the teen responded. “And I'm talking to you as Omi, not Bombay.” At that statement Aya nodded his assent and gestured for Omi to take the seat between the bed and the window. Once settled, Omi began, though the words out of his mouth were far from what Aya expected to hear.

 

“It was Takatori, wasn't it,” the blue-eyed youth stated more than asked. “He was the one that did whatever caused you to become a part of Kritiker and change your name.” Aya stared out the window for several minutes, as if deciding on what to say; Omi patiently waited for a response. Finally turning his amethyst gaze to the blonde he spoke.

 

“Yes,” Aya stated evenly. “He was the direct cause of my parents' murder, as well as putting my sister into a coma that she is not likely come out of.” Omi returned the steady gaze, trying to convey his understanding with only his eyes. He would not use his empathy on this man; that could cause an unwanted rift to form between them should he ever find out. As it was, it was going to be hell explaining his talents to the crimson haired man.

 

“I understand, Aya,” Omi finally replied. “And I know you don't want to hear this, but you need to wait. You'll get your chance soon enough.” Aya's eyes widened in disbelief at that.

 

“You act as if you know this to be a fact!” He managed to keep his voice low.

 

“I do,” the blonde confirmed. “I also know that there are things I have to tell you before you'll believe me.” Violet eyes narrowed.

 

“Go on then,” Aya demanded. “Explain.” Omi nodded, taking a moment to organize his thoughts.

 

“You know I still have the memories of my past,” he began. “Well, I guess I should start by telling you that I wasn't born with the name Tsukiyono Omi.” Aya wasn't completely shocked at this revelation, after all hadn't he also change his name. The blue-eyed boy sighed before continuing. “I need you to promise me that you will let me finish. You are almost definitely not going to like what I'm about to say, but in order for you to fully grasp the seriousness of this situation, you need to hear the whole thing.”

 

“I promise,” Aya replied. Omi nodded his thanks and ran a nervous hand through his hair.

 

“Until I was seven years old, I went by the name Takatori Mamoru,” This was said so quietly that Aya almost didn't hear him. Did he just say he was…When he finally took in the reality of the statement, Aya was seething on the inside; Omi could feel the hatred rolling off the man in waves. Here's the real test; is he going to hear me out or is he going to blow up at me? However angry Aya was, though, he remained true to his word.

 

“Continue,” he said in a clipped tone.

 

“One night when I was seven, I found myself in the middle of a fire that seemed to break out of no where; the thing was that the flames were not just all around me but on my skin as well; they didn't burn me at all.” Omi thought it would be best to start at the very beginning. “My mother was with me, and for a reason that I will never know, she made me swear to only tell one person about that incident… The next morning, I went to see her and found her hanging from her bedroom ceiling.” Though it happened ten years ago, the memory of that morning pained him as if it had happened yesterday and he had to pause to regain his composure. Even through the total rage of finding out his team leader was related to the man who destroyed his family, Aya felt sympathy; he too knew what it was like to walk into a room only to see the bodies of dead parents.

 

“After that, things are a bit hazy; I remember someone picking me up and carrying me to another room. The next clear memory I have is hearing my called by a strange voice. When I looked up, I saw the man my mother had described to me, the one who I promised to trust with my secret. That promise was the last I made to her, so I followed it through, am still following it through.” Omi stopped for a moment to gauge the crimson haired man's reaction. Aya appeared to be listening intently; the anger was still apparent in violet eyes, but he seemed to have calmed somewhat.

 

“The man, you saw him tonight. He was the American who kept you from killing Takatori, but” Omi rushed to say before Aya could interrupt, “he wants the man dead as much as you do… as I do, as well.” Aya looked confused at that and couldn't hold back the question hanging from his tongue.

 

“So, you are Takatori's son, and you want your father dead,” Aya clarified. “Then why did you stop me? And if the man protecting him also wants him dead, why did he stop me?” Aya shifted his position in the window, turning to more fully face the teen.

 

“It's a lot more complicated than that,” Omi replied, hands clasped together tightly showing his unease. “First of all, yes, I want to kill my father, but it turned out that Takatori Reiji is not my father; I'm the product of an affair between my mother and Reiji's brother, Shuichi.” Well, isn't this just a night for surprises, Aya thought sourly. Omi continued. “The man guarding Takatori tonight is Brad Crawford; when I first met him, he told me of all the things Reiji and Shuichi were up to, including the fact that Schuichi murdered my mother in an attempt to get to me. He wanted to… no he still wants to use me against his brother. Anyway, after hearing that, I immediately decided I didn't want to be a Takatori anymore; one of Crawford's associates found a new name for me, and I became Tsukiyono Omi. For years, I had to watch as all of the Takatori ruined people's lives.” By now Omi was himself enraged and had to take a moment to breathe. Aya was slowly getting the idea that Omi was just as bent on getting Takatori as he was.

 

“That's not the whole story,” the blue-eyed teen be started again. “Haven't you wondered why I mentioned the whole fire incident?” Aya nodded, though truthfully he had forgotten as Omi's story had progressed. “Well, it seems that I'm what you would call a pyrokinetic; I can form and control fire and it won't hurt me.”

 

“You can't be serious,” the red headed stated in disbelief. His doubt faded as Omi held up his hand, forming a small black flame in the palm.

 

“I'm very serious,” he said. Extinguishing the flame, he went on. “Crawford and his team showed me, and one other, how to control these abilities. There are five of us, and we all have different psychic talents.” Omi sighed for what seemed like the tenth time. “I'm actually also a slight empath,” he added, not wanting to leave anything out; he respected the swordsman too much to leave out the important detail. The blonde gave Aya a few minutes to absorb this information. The look the crimson haired man gave showed that the last statement had finally clicked. He didn't have to be Crawford to know what was coming next.

 

“So, that day we met,” the violet eyed man finally spoke, tone suspicious. “That was the reason I felt I could be so open with you. Did you somehow make me want to trust you?” His anger was beginning to build again; Aya did not like being played with. Omi's shoulders slumped.

 

“Not exactly,” the pyro replied. “I just sort of projected a feeling of calm. It was mostly unintentional; I'd never been able to tell anyone my name before you. I always had to be `Mamoru'.” He stated with disgust.

 

“You said `mostly' unintentional…” Aya trailed off. Omi lowered his eyes; how could he say this without breaking what little trust was left? Looking back to the red haired man, he tried.

 

“I was told that I needed to get to know you in the little time that I had. I could tell you just wanted to leave, so I just helped you feel comfortable enough to stay and talk to me.” Aya stared at him, trying to determine if he was lying.

 

“Are using it on me, now?” Omi shook his head.

 

“No, you would be able to tell almost immediately since you know what I can do; you would recognize the change in you emotions,” the young man replied. In a more subdued voice he continued. “I could never do that to any of my friends.” Aya appeared to accept that answer as his face relaxed somewhat.

 

“Why,” Aya started to ask, “did you disappear so suddenly if you were supposed to become my friend?” This was something that had always bothered him; the one person he felt he could really talk to other than his sister had suddenly vanished.

 

“I really didn't have a choice. I was required to train at a foreign facility for two years. A little over a month after I returned I was kidnapped, then brought into Kritiker,” he had so much more to say about all this. “There's more going on than you think, and neither Takatori nor any of his family are anywhere near the top; he's just a pawn. The people who trained me, they're part of a group known as Esset. They have many goals, the first and foremost of which is world domination; they've been gathering people with talents and forcing them to do their bidding for decades. We're trying to stop them.”

 

“Who's `we'?” Aya suspected it was these other psychics Omi had mentioned, but he wanted confirmation.

 

“All of us,” the youth replied. “As in Weiss, and my other team, Schwartz. Weiss is the reason I was allowed to be kidnapped in the first place.” This is just getting better and better, Aya thought.

 

“You need to explain that. How are Ken, Yohji, and I involved in all of this?” It was a valid question.

 

“You know I was kidnapped and that Persia ordered my rescue and put me in Kritiker,” Omi started his reply. “What you don't know is that it was Persia who orchestrated my kidnapping in the first place. The men who grabbed me were supposed to hand me over to Manx. One of the men had a different idea and tried to ransom me to both Reiji and Shuichi; both refused to pay.” Omi rubbed a hand over his face in exhaustion. “Persia had made sure Reiji found out I wasn't his son knowing he wouldn't care if I disappeared. Shuichi, well, Shuichi is…” he paused. Aya was going `love' this part. `Takatori Shuichi is Persia. He uses Kritiker in the feud with Reiji. I guarantee that if you did a background check on all of our mission files, you would find that every assassination we've been given has some connection to Reiji.” Aya got up and began pacing around the room; he was barely able to keep himself from storming out of the room and hunting down every last Takatori on his own, but he still needed an answer to his previous question.

 

“That still doesn't tell me what this has to do with us,” he finally said after returning to his seat in the window.

 

“I was getting to that. We, as in Weiss and Schwartz, are the only ones who can stop all of this,” Gods but he was tired, but he needed to finish. “In order to defeat Esset, we first have to take out the Takatori. But we can't do it, yet. If we move too soon, everything will go wrong.”

 

“How do you know that?!” The red head was frustrated. Everything was suddenly so complicated.

 

“Crawford is a precog; he can see the different futures based on the choices people could make,” Omi explained as he watched his teammate's reaction. “Look, Aya. I, of all people, understand how infuriating this is. I've been waiting a decade to get the man who killed my mother and subsequently stole my childhood. You have to realize that I've been an assassin much longer than any of you have been, longer than any of you suspect. You're not the only one who…” he stopped as his voice broke slightly. The blue-eyed teen's own frustrations were beginning to show. Aya let a small sigh slip as he realized just what Omi was getting at; running a hand through his hair as he digested everything, he finally responded.

 

“I don't like this. We're being used for Persia's personal gain,” he began. “but I understand how important this is. I'll do what I can to help. Just promise me one thing.” At Omi's nod he continued. “Promise me that I will be the one to kill Takatori.” His violet eyes hardened as he thought of his revenge.

 

“That I can promise you without a doubt,” the teen stated. “I don't know when or where it will be, but I do know it will be you.” Aya gave the blonde a questioning glance to which Omi shrugged while saying one word, “Crawford.” That seemed to satisfy the red head, and much to the blonde's relief, the man's hatred no longer seemed to be directed at him. They sat in silence for a few moments before Omi got up and excused himself.

 

“It's late, and you probably want to think over everything; just don't mention this to the others, yet. I'll talk them about it later, when they need to know,” he said, getting a nod of agreement from the red head. “I'll see you tomorrow.” Walking across the room he reached to open the door when Aya's voice stopped him.

 

“I trust you, Tsukiyono Omi.” Crystal blue eyes caught an amethyst gaze for a moment. Turning back towards the door, a ghost of a smile formed on his lips at Aya's subtle way of saying he didn't think of him as a Takatori.

 

“Thank you,” he whispered just loud enough for the swordsman to hear as he left the room. He never saw the faint smile appeared on Aya's face. We're more alike than I thought, Omi…my friend.

 

----------------------------------------------------------------- -------

 

Emerald eyes cracked open as sunlight peaked through the window, pulling Yohji from his slumber. He's still here. The blonde smiled as he recalled the previous night's activities. Turning in the German's arms, he came face-to-face with a wide awake red head.

 

“Good morning,” Schuldig said softly, running a hand through golden locks.

 

“Mmm. Morning,” Yohji replied. The two remained entangled for a few more minutes before moving to get up.

 

“So…” the blonde stared, a bit unsure of how to ask. “Are we together, now? I understand if you don't want that after the way I treated you befo…” a finger on his lips stopped him from completing the sentence.

 

“That doesn't matter,” Schuldig replied. “All we need to worry about is the present.” And the future, he added silently. “But you need to know something. This is it for me; you're the one I want to be with, the one I've always wanted to be with. I need to know if that's what you want, as well.”

 

“I think maybe it's the same for me,” the lanky man said quietly as the two dressed. “Not even when I was with Asuka did I feel as complete as I do now with you. I can't say that the memories of her won't still affect me, but I can say that I do want to be with you. Just be patient with me; I still need time to move past her loss.”

 

“We have all the time in the world, Yotan.” Schuldig responded, ending the conversation with a chaste kiss to Yohji's lips. After one gentle squeeze to the blonde's hand, the two headed out the room, Schuldig in front of Yohji. Turning the corner towards the staircase, a smaller body collided with the red head, causing it to fall back down. Or it would have had Schuldig's quick reflexes not caught an arm, halting the descent.

 

“Thanks,” a young voice stated as blue eyes turned to see who had caught him. “Schu…?!” Omi said, shocked at finding his friend and teammate there, followed closely by Yohji, no less. “What are you doing here?” He asked incredulously.

 

“You know each other?” The older blonde was understandably confused.

 

“Yeah,” Schuldig was the one to respond. He gave a little smirk as he continued. “He's dating a good friend of mine.” Omi looked appalled. He hadn't told anyone outside of Schwartz that he had a boyfriend. He wasn't ashamed, but if they found out about Nagi, there could be serious problems. Don't worry, Omi. Yohji doesn't know who it is, Schuldig reassured.

 

“What! Omittchi, you've been holding out on me!” The blonde exclaimed in mock anger. “How long has this been going on, and when do we get to meet her?” Clearly shorter blonde had kept his preferences quiet, as well.

 

“Uh, well…” the blue eyed boy stuttered. “We've been together for almost a year.” He saw the surprise reflected in green eyes.

 

“You've managed to keep a secret girlfriend that long? I was always kidding when I told Ken you were meeting someone all those times you were late getting back.” Yohji was more amused at this more than anything. The youngest assassin was obviously very sneaky when he wanted to be; it reminded him of himself.

 

“Boyfriend,” Schuldig corrected the tall blonde. Groaning, Omi slid to the floor and buried his face in his hands. This was so not how he planned the day to go, and it wasn't even nine, yet. I just want to go to bed.

 

“Come on bishounen,” Yohji said laughing. “There's nothing to be embarrassed about.” Finding humor in that statement, Omi's shoulders shook in silent laughter. Blue eyes peaked out from behind his hands. Yohji and Schuldig were both surprised to find them shining with mirth; they had thought he was crying.

 

“I'm not embarrassed,” the teen stated, smiling. “Give me some credit. I've known almost since you got here that you're bi. And Schu, you already knew I was gay. Why would Yohji finding out bother me?” He asked. The two men shrugged. A moment later, Omi's visage changed, revealing the stress underneath the fake smile. The red head took a good look at the archer and noticed the dark circles under his eyes for the first time.

 

“If that's not it, then why do you look so terrible?” Omi bowed his head and sighed.

 

“I just had a long night; I haven't even been to bed, yet.” Yohji gave him a look, wondering if something had happened on the mission. “Don't worry about it. It was nothing bad, just a bit stressful,” he stated at the concerned look; it seemed to keep Yohji from asking any questions. I had to tell Aya everything. He told the German. I never knew talking could be so, so… Schuldig gave him an understanding look that Yohji didn't catch. Did he take it badly? Omi gave a reply while rising from the floor. At first, I thought he might want to kill me. But by the end, well, he said he trusted me. The blonde youth couldn't suppress the grateful feeling at the thought, nor could he hide the exhaustion his body felt as he leaned against the wall. Schuldig and Yohji noticed the slouched stance; the archer could definitely use some rest.

 

“I think Omi here has a date planned in a few hours,” the red head said to the former detective. “Why don't we let him get some sleep while you and I grab some breakfast.” Omi seemed to find this idea agreeable as he was already heading to his room.

 

“Sounds good,” Yohji replied as he turned to head down the stairs. “By the way, Omi, maybe we could double some time.” The man added with a wink. Omi turned back towards the older men, gave them an appraising look and laughed.

 

“Figures,” he muttered. “Maybe in few months. For know, we only get to see each other every couple of weeks; I think I'll stick to spending time alone with him for now.” Yohji nodded in understanding. Omi had more responsibility than the rest of Weiss, and he wouldn't begrudge him his privacy. Not even realizing he never got the name of the youth's mysterious boyfriend, he grabbed Schuldig and pulled him towards the kitchen while Omi went off to finally go to bed.

 

Several hours later found Omi walking out the back door of the Koneko, Schuldig at his side. He glared up at the older man.

 

“You are not going with me,” he stated evenly. He wanted to spend some quality time with Nagi; their plans in no way included the telepath.

 

“Someone needs to be chaperone,” the red head replied with a smirk.

 

“And why is that?” Omi asked. “It's not as if Nagi and I have needed one before. I think you just want to annoy someone, and since Crawford and Farfarello are busy with Takatori, we're it.” Schuldig's smirk widened.

 

“You know me too well,” he said as they turned the corner, approaching a small restaurant where Nagi was waiting. Seeing Omi and Schuldig, the brunette became curious, if not a bit aggravated.

 

“What are you doing here?” the telekinetic asked the telepath once the two were next to him. Omi was the one to respond.

 

“He spent the night with Yohji,” Seeing Nagi's confusion he continued. “They're together now. Apparently they've known each other for a long time and ran into each other last night. He stayed until I was leaving. and now the ass is going to follow us around.” Two sets of blue eyes sent identical glares at said ass, to which Schuldig simply laughed.

 

“While I would enjoy nothing more than to disrupt your private moments, I actually came along to give you both a heads up,” the green-eyed man stated. Noting the curious looks from the teens, he continued. “Let's talk over lunch. After that, I'll be out your way.” The trio entered the restaurant and was seated at secluded table thanks to Schuldig's influence. Once they had placed and received their orders, Schuldig got to the matter at hand.

 

“This morning, after you went to bed,” he began, “I had a little chat with Brad. He wanted us all to be aware that Farfarello's bitch of a mother is close to finding him again.” Nagi's eyes narrowed, while Omi's fist tightened around his chopsticks. Expecting that sort of response, the red head continued. “She knows who we all are, so even though she only wants our resident psychopath, we all have to be on our guards. She might try to use one of us to get to him.” A tense silence settled between them until Nagi finally spoke up, his voice hard.

 

“Did Crawford say how long until she finds him again?” he asked through gritted teeth. Schuldig shook his head.

 

“He just said that it would be soon, and that if his vision played out the way he saw it, our teams would finally form an alliance.” Omi's eyes widened.

 

“That means that they'll all know soon,” he was truly panicking over this. It had been hard enough talking to Aya about it, but with Ken and Yohji knowing, things would be that much more complicated for him. Nagi grabbed his free hand in silent support.

 

“We knew this would eventually come the day Fujimiya joined Weiss,” the German said sympathetically. “It was only a matter of time. At least you won't have to hide everything from your friends anymore. Brad has always been right about everything; I know he's right about this, as well.” The blonde gave a weak smile, though he was still worried. The stakes would be rising in the foreseeable future, and he was in the middle of it all. The three continue their meals in silence, after which Schuldig headed back to the penthouse. Nagi and Omi, hands still joined, headed towards the park where they would spend the rest of the day sitting under their tree, enjoying the temporary peace that would all too soon shatter.

 

 

TBC
End of chapter note: I know that's not how Aya met the little girl in episode 2, but given the conversation he had with Omi, I figured he wouldn't give her much thought, so I didn't leave him a way to find her again. This is one of the few episodes where I didn't have to change much with how the mission went, so sorry if that part was a boring read.