Weiss Kreuz Fan Fiction ❯ Building Our Tomorrow ❯ Pleasure and Pain ( Chapter 10 )

AN: Mmm, not much to say. I've started another Weiss fic-arc, but it shouldn't cause any delays in the writing of this one. If anything, writing them simultaneously is inspiring me. Oh, be on the lookout for two multi-chapter side stories. One's about Crawford's past and the other's about Ran and the Crashers. I should start posting them within the month. I know, I'm pretty much rewriting the entire series, but I really don't like how most of it turned out (I do like Kapitel, with the exception of Ouka).

 

Reviews:

Splitpersona: Yep, the story's picking up, but there's just soooo much to do. Masafumi and Hirofumi won't show up until after Kase. I like the idea about experimenting on Omi, but I hadn't planned on doing that. I was actually planning on concentrating on the whole Schreient aspect of that particular part and haven't really decided on whether Masafumi will get much of a role. We'll see. Hirofumi's part will be fun, though. I'd have to say that whole Takatori showdown won't be for several chapters simply because there are just so many things I need to cover before that, but we will be seeing more of Manx now that she's in on it.

 

TrenchcoatMan: I don't think the one-shot will be a side fic, but I will definitely give you a good, steamy FxK. The question is, do you want a full out lemon as a PWP, or do want some plot thrown in? Let me know. Oh, and if I go all out, I probably won't be able to post it at FFnet, meaning I'll let you know when it's done and where you can find it. And it makes me happy when someone likes the way I write the characters, so thanks for saying that about Ouka. Her death is still a few chapters off, though… I have to build up some more tension there.

 

Warnings: Language, Violence, Lime-y goodness (from both ON and SY, yay! I was in the mood for it since the pairings for my other Weiss arc are going to take so long to develop; it's sort of a little PWP within the fic, so if you don't like that kind of thing, you can skip over it).

 

Disclaimer: I wish I could say they're mine, but they aren't. I'm just borrowing them and twisting the characters to my own whims.

 

 

Internal Dialogue

Telepathy

 

Chapter 10

 

Yohji. Said assassin rolled over in bed and had to do a double take when his eyes passed over the clock. What the fuck! Why am I awake at six in the morning. Yohji, wake up. At least he had an answer as to what had dragged him from his blissful slumber. Schu, do you have any idea what time it is? The blonde's mental voice was in full `whine' mode. Quit complaining, get dressed, and get that sexy ass of your outside, right now. Oh, that's right. We decided to meet this morning since there's not really time to meet tonight. I'll be down in about twenty minutes, he responded once he finally remembered why he was awoken at such an ungodly hour. Bring Omi with you; I've got Nagi with me, and they're going to take the same opportunity we are. I figured we could all grab some breakfast then go off to do our own things until this afternoon. The former detective passed along an `okay', stumbled out of bed, and pulled on the first pair of pants he came across before heading to the archer's room.

 

“Omi,” he gently nudged the teen's shoulder, prompting him to wake up. Cerulean eyes blinked sleepily.

 

“Yohji?” the younger blonde mumbled. “Wha…?” Omi was confused as he glanced at his clock, having much the same reaction as Yohji when he spied the time. “I don't have to get be up for school for another hour.” Suddenly realizing that it was Yohji who was waking him up, he panicked. “What's wrong? Did something happen?” The teen was frantic as he sat up with a start. The older assassin was never up this early unless something was wrong.

 

“Calm down, Omi,” emerald eyes looked amused. “Nothing's wrong, but you aren't going to school today.” Unsure of what was going on, the pyro looked at his friend, waiting for an explanation. “Schuldig and Nagi are outside waiting for us. Schu figured the two of you could use the time together. We're going to grab some food, then he and I are going to leave you two to your own devices for awhile.”

 

“You know I have no problem missing school, but you're the one who's going to call and tell them I'm not coming,” the hacker's voice was serious. “I've already missed more school in the last two months than I have in three years, and they're not buying my excuses anymore.”

 

“Not a problem,” Yohji accepted the teen's terms. “You've got fifteen minutes,” he informed the younger blonde before leaving the room in favor of a quick shower. Nagi? Omi opened their link. Did I forget about making plans with you for today? He asked while pulling on his clothes. No, came the reply. Schu woke me up at five saying that it was the perfect opportunity for us to get together. You won't be expected back until school lets out, and I'm not under any time constraints to finish the research I'm working on. The archer smiled at how thoughtful the German was while walking out of his room, through the hallway and down the stairs, where he saw Yohji, damp hair and all, waiting for him.

 

“Ready?” the lanky blonde asked, to which he nodded. The two quietly slipped out through the back door where they were immediately greeted by their respective lovers.

 

“I feel like I haven't seen you in forever,” Nagi whispered while wrapping his arms around the taller teen's shoulders.

 

“It has been a couple of weeks,” Omi admitted sadly. “At least we can talk to each other any time we want, though.”

 

“True,” the brunette conceded.

 

“Let's go you two,” the telepath called out, his lips slightly swollen from the kiss the teens assumed he had just finished giving Yohji.

 

“We're coming,” the youngest replied after giving his boyfriend a quick kiss. Hand in hand, the two came up next to the older assassins.

 

“I already called the school,” the ex-detective informed the shorter blonde. “Told them you were sick, so there'll be no problems for you.”

 

“Thanks,” he replied as the four walked towards whatever destination Schuldig had in mind. Omi turned his head in Nagi's direction. “You're lucky you don't have to go to school; it's such a waste of time seeing as how I generally know more about what they try to teach than they do.”

 

“Well,” the telekinetic tried to placate his lover. “At least you only have another couple of months, and then you'll be finished.”

 

“He's right,” the German added his opinion. “Just put up with it for a bit longer, then you won't have to act like you don't already know everything there is to know about computer science.” The last brought on a small bout of laughter from all of them; it had been a running joke between Nagi and Omi - and Ken, now that they knew of his computer prowess - that Omi should be the teaching the class. Yohji had heard them talking about it one time and commented on how he didn't think teaching the fine art of hacking would go over very well with the school board.

 

“We're here,” Schuldig stopped in front of a run down looking building.

 

“Are you sure?” the ex-detective asked skeptically. “This place looks like it couldn't pass the health inspection short of tearing it down and rebuilding.”

 

“Trust me,” was all the telepath would say as he led his three, hesitating friends through the door. Once inside, they couldn't help but notice the warm, homey atmosphere. Everyone they saw looked to be thoroughly enjoying their meals and talking animatedly with their dining companions.

 

“Please allow me to show you to a table,” a female voice interrupted their observations of the establishment. The four men followed the hostess to a table in the corner of the room, affording them a modicum of privacy. After she left them, they opened their menus and browsed the breakfast selections.

 

“How did you find this place?” Nagi asked of Schuldig. “I would have never thought to come into such a decrepit looking building expecting to find such a nice restaurant.” The telepath just smirked and tapped his head with a single finger. “Of course,” the brunette muttered rolling his eyes and catching a similar `I should have know' look from Omi.

 

“Good morning. I'm Mako, and I will be serving you today,” a waitress with flowing, black hair and deep, brown eyes stood next to the table. “Are you ready to order, or should I give you more time to decide?” The four men exchange glances before indicating that they were indeed ready to place their orders and did so. “I'll return with your drinks shortly; it should be about twenty minutes for before your food is ready.”

 

“Thank you,” Yohji replied, and Mako left to put in their orders. “So” he directed his attention to the three at the table, and thus began a relatively normal conversation amongst four extraordinary men. They were relaxed for once and found that they enjoyed chatting with the young woman who served their food drink on the few occasions that she stopped over to check on them. All in all, it was the first time in several months where they didn't feel as if the weight of all their actions were bearing down on them. Once their meal was completed, a feat in and of itself, seeing as how they spent two hours on a leisurely meal, each couple left for their own destinations; it wasn't as if they didn't know what the other had planned, but they would each require their own bit of seclusion. By the end of they day, they would all look back and laugh at how things actually turned out.

 

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“I can't believe we're actually doing this,” Omi gasped during one the brief respites between heated kisses. His blue-eyed lover made a noise of agreement before once again capturing the blonde's lips. He slipped his tongue inside the small gap in the archer's mouth only to be met halfway, and the battle began anew. Pale hands made their way underneath an uncommonly tight shirt, caressing the wondrously soft skin of the blonde's stomach and chest. Slowly and torturously, the telekinetic began to tease already half-hard nipples to full firmness, eliciting a deep moan from the throat of his lover, only to be swallowed by the seal their lips created. Omi retaliated by sliding his hands beneath the hem of the brunettes waistline, grabbing the lithe teen's buttocks and pulling him closer, causing sweet friction as their painfully hard arousals connected through cloth. It was too much, and their kiss was broken as they both tilted their heads back, biting their lips to keep from groaning aloud; they had to be cautious in such a public setting, no matter how secluded the area seemed to be.

 

“Schu was right,” Nagi stated between breaths. “It's so much more exciting when there's the possibility of being caught.” That's right, the two least likely of people were currently progressing towards some serious sexual acts in the middle of the park, where anyone could walk up and find them. It had never occurred to either teen that exhibitionism could be fun, but here they were, turned on by the mere thought of someone stumbling across their little hideaway and watching.

 

“Definitely,” the archer agreed as he trailed kisses across the other's jaw and slid hands under the shirt of his lover, bunching it up at his neck before lifting his arms pulling it completely off. The blonde pushed him onto his back and began to work his lips and tongue all over the newly exposed skin until the brunette could no longer lay still and began writhing underneath Omi. Evening the odds, he pushed the older teen up enough to remove last remaining obstacle between bare-chested contact, something for which they were craving. Once finished, the brunette laced silky, golden locks through his fingers and pulled until their mouths collided and heated flesh touch. Moving against one another, hands began to travel downward, reaching for one another's pants. A loud moan that had not come from either assassin broke them from their uninhibited states. Listening carefully, they heard a gasp coming from behind them, and separating, they silently made their way towards the very familiar sounds.

 

“Is that…” Omi managed to whisper before stopping himself, not wanting to be heard. Peaking through the shrubbery that blocked them from peering eyes, Nagi could only nod and gape; his blonde lover was in much the same state of open mouthed staring. In another hidden clearing, they watched the two men they had only just seen a couple of hours ago going for they same goal they had previously been set on attaining. Fiery, red hair was tangled with wavy, blonde hair as Schuldig trailed his kiss-swollen lips across Yohji's neck, while the former detective reached for the button of the telepath's pants. We shouldn't be watching this… Nagi sent. I know, Omi's mental voice was breathless. But I can't turn away… It's just so… His azure eyes were glued to the scene before him as the German helped his lover slide very tight pants down his legs. Erotic… the telekinetic supplied, also unable to turn away from the sight. Neither could hide the fact that this was turning them on as much as the idea of being caught had.

 

Apparently, they were now voyeurs as well, and damned but if they didn't really care as they watched Schuldig completely disrobe Yohji, giving both teens and eyeful, better than any porn they could have found. Next, they watched as the German was expertly flipped onto his back, and Yohji went down; it was everything the younger assassins could do not to make a single sound that would disturb their teammates, though that apparently didn't matter. Enjoying the show? Schuldig's amused voice rang through their heads, though he showed no outward signs of acknowledgement, his facial expression clearly indicating that he had no intention of stopping what his lover was doing. And if the telepath knew they were watching, then it was unlikely that Yohji didn't know. The teens looked to one another, blue meeting blue briefly, as they decided something, then looking once more at the passionate display before them. Yes, they responded simultaneously, Nagi making sure that both men heard their reply. The only difference it seemed to make was that the smiles on the older assassins' faces widened momentarily knowing that their young friends were enjoying the view, really not concerned that they were being watched.

 

“Nagi,” Omi whispered in a strained voice; the telekinetic seemed to understand. Once again, they looked to each other, slightly apprehensive with what they were about to do. The archer suddenly shrugged it off as if to say `fuck it', and intending to do just that, pulled the brunette to the ground with him, where they followed their elders' example.

 

Several hours later, four men made their way back to their respective homes. Four other men couldn't even begin to guess as to what was so funny that their friends and teammates couldn't stop laughing. Had they known, they would have thought them to be crazy, and maybe they were, but the situation had been extremely satisfying. Although it had been somewhat embarrassing afterwards, they couldn't help but find the humor in the fact that they had independently had the same idea. It had been especially amusing when the younger couple discovered that Schuldig and Yohji had returned the favor and watched them.

 

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“Tonight's the night we complete the mission,” Omi stated. “Aya, you'll go after their leader,” the swordsman nodded. “Ken, you already know your target. Yohji and I will keep any other members of the Creepers occupied and off your backs.”

 

“Right,” Ken stood from the couch in the mission room. “I've got a phone call to make.” The former soccer player was going to call Kase under the guise of making plans to meet up with the man the next day. The actual purpose was so that their resident hacker could trace the phone call and confirm their targets' position. Aya had discovered the base of the Creepers' operations, and in one hour, the assassins would take them out.

 

As Ken was making his way up the stairs, Omi caught a look from Yohji and burst out laughing. Their crimson haired friend gave them both a wary look.

 

“Are you sure you two can keep it together tonight?” he asked. “You haven't been able to look at each other without losing it since you came back this afternoon.”

 

“It won't be a problem,” the former playboy assured. “We're just getting it out of our systems before we leave.”

 

“What happened anyway?” Aya was very curious about what could possibly be so funny that it reduced the others to maniacal laughter.

 

“Nothing,” the archer replied as he turned to activated the tracing program on his computer. “Nothing you want to know about, anyway,” he added under his breath.

 

“It really isn't that funny,” Yohji added, trying in vain to smother his sniggering. “It's just one of those things you had to be there for.” The swordsman shook his head, deciding to leave it alone after adding one final comment.

 

“Just don't let it interfere with the mission,” he warned.

 

“You know better than that,” Omi turned his head, directing a serious, blue gaze at his teammate. “Neither of us would ever compromise a mission; the stakes are too high.”

 

“I know,” Aya sighed. “I guess I'm just anxious about this one,” he admitted. “It's personal for Ken, which makes it personal for us, as well.”

 

“Yeah,” two voices replied, one after the other.

 

“I've got it,” the archer suddenly broke the short silence that had settled over the room. “The call was traced back the location we have; we're good to go.” The three turned to the stairs at the sound of footsteps, signaling Ken's return.

 

“Was he there?” the aqua-eyed teen asked.

 

“Yes,” Omi confirmed. “We leave in twenty minutes.” The others nodded and went to gather the necessary equipment for the mission, mainly their weapons; however, the archer was planning on setting some explosives, as well, and prepared accordingly. Prompt as always, the four made their way towards the warehouse district using both motorcycles and Aya's car. Within half and hour, their vehicles had been left at different locations, each man making his way to their planned positions.

 

“I'm in position,” Yohji's voice was heard over the radio frequency, though it was barely a whisper; they had some unbelievably sensitive equipment. Not long after, both Ken and Aya had checked in, reporting their readiness as well.

 

“Bombay,” Ken spoke into the small microphone. Omi had yet to check in, and the others were getting anxious; the blonde was usually first in position. “Is everything okay?” The hint of concern was easily detected through the headsets

 

“I've still got two more bombs to set,” came the hushed reply. “But I'm stuck. There are a lot more men here than we anticipated, and right now, I have to wait until it's clear before I can move to the next site.”

 

“Should we wait for you or go ahead and start?” Aya's voice came through their earpieces.

 

“Go ahead and start,” the archer answered. “It may provide the distraction I need to finish setting the explosives.” Nothing further was said as the assault on the Creepers began. Aya and Ken, though taking separate routes, made there way towards the back offices, the most likely place to find the two heads of the organization, cutting down anyone who crossed their paths. Yohji went to the heart of the warehouse, using his wire to eliminate any of the gang members crossing him and causing enough trouble that those occupying the area surrounding Omi went to see what was causing the commotion, allowing the pyro to complete his task.

 

Once the remaining bombs were set, he joined in the older blonde's chore of taking out as many as he could. Unfortunately, due to their underestimating of the numbers that would be present, he was running out of weapons, and he couldn't use his talent, fearing that one the gang's members might see and escape unnoticed. Frustrated, the teen mounted his last bolt onto the crossbow attached to his left arm and palmed his remaining three darts in his right hand.

 

“I'm in trouble,” he whispered into his headpiece, not wanting to give away that fact to his numerous opponents. Taking a look around, he saw that Aya's target was amongst those surrounding him before ducking under cover. “Abyssinian,” he hissed. “Your target is near my position, and I need help. I'm down to three darts and one bolt with at least fifteen surrounding me.”

 

“On my way,” the swordsman clipped, likely annoyed that he was moving in the wrong direction. After hearing that assistance was on the way, the archer took aim with his crossbow and fired at the closest man, who collapsed as the shot went straight through his heart. Gunfire sounded as the teen ducked back down, waiting for the moment he could strike again, hoping to keep them at bay until Aya arrived.

 

“I've finished here and am heading towards Bombay's position,” Yohji informed everyone. That didn't exactly comfort the younger blonde as his teammate was on the other side of the warehouse, and it would take him at least five minutes to get there. Hopefully, Aya hadn't been all the way to the offices, yet, and would get there soon. Noticing that there was a lull in the firing, the pyro took the opportunity to launch two of his darts, taking out two more of the Creepers. One left, he thought. More gunfire pinned him down as he clutched his last bit of offense. They must know I'm running out of weapons by now and will try to close in on me. Taking his last dart, he rolled out from behind the crates that were shielding him and threw his last deadly projectile before sprinting to find better cover. The sound of metal on metal was like music to his ears as he realized the crimson haired assassin had made it just in time, or it would have been in time if he hadn't felt a bullet tear through his left shoulder, the force of which knocked him to the ground with a pained grunt.

 

“Bombay!” he heard Yohji's voice yell as he stood and continued towards cover. Good, they're both here, Omi thought. They can handle the rest of them.

 

“I'm fine!” he shouted back through gritted teeth. “Take them out!” The ex-detective took the younger's word for it and wrapped his wire around one gang member after another while Aya slashed away at anyone who came his way, eventually taking out his primary target.

 

“It's clear,” the swordsman called out. The archer emerged from his hiding spot, clutching at his shoulder, left arm hanging limply at his side.

 

“Balinese,” he started. “The detonator is in my right front pocket. Take it, and when I give the order, set off the explosives.” The older blonde did as he was instructed, and the three exited the warehouse, where Aya tended to his teammates injury while waiting for Ken to finish and join them.

 

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As soon as Omi had given the go ahead, Ken stealthily made his way towards the offices in the back of the warehouse where he suspected his former friend to be. He only came across two or three guards on his way, and after going through five different rooms, he finally came across the one person he was looking for. Silently, the brunette assassin crept into the office where the loathsome man was sitting with his back to the door. The loud click of the door closing startled the man, causing him to turn and face his soon to be executioner.

 

“Ken!” he was shocked to see the young man standing in his office. “What are you doing here?! Better yet, how did you get in here?” His only answer was the soft hiss of metal on leather as the assassin eagerly unleashed his claws. The older brunette stared, astonished at what he was seeing, before regaining his composure and smirking.

 

“You're not going to kill me,” he stated with calm confidence. “You were always too weak and naïve to ever do something like that.” Ken gave him a feral smile and took a step forward.

 

“Don't act like you know me so well, Kase,” he growled saying the name as though it were a curse to all mankind. “I'll admit that it was my own fault for following you that day,” he started conversationally, all the while stalking forward and keeping track of his target's every move. “But I had already suspected what you were… are, and I wanted confirmation back then.” The brown-eyed man began to look a little unnerved at seeing this side of his former lover, someone he had mistakenly thought he could easily manipulate and use for his own ends. He reached for the gun in the top drawer of his desk and pointed it at the still approaching assassin.

 

“I still don't believe you have it in you to kill,” he replied, though he didn't sound so sure anymore. “But I'll make sure I finished what I started all those years ago.” Taking aim, Kase fired, hitting Ken point blank in the chest. The assassin fell heavily to the floor, eyes wide from the throbbing ache that coursed through his upper body. I'll have to send a note the people who make these vests; they absorb none of the shock, the more rational part of his mind thought even as the rest of him ignored the sensation. Kase laughed harshly, mockingly, as he stood and walked over to the man he presumed to be dead, thinking he'd won. As soon as he was close enough, Ken kicked his legs from beneath him and pounced, straddling the older brunette, pinning the man's arms with his legs.

 

“H-h-how?” Kase asked, thoroughly confused as to why the other man wasn't dead.

 

“I came prepared,” was the simple reply as raised his right hand in preparation for Kase could only hope would be quick death; not all dying men are granted their final wishes, though. “Don't assume you know anything about me,” he hissed in the terrified man's ear. “I've been killing pieces of shit like you for the last three years.” At the look of unadulterated horror that filled brown eyes upon realizing his death was inevitable, Ken struck. Painstakingly slowly, he raked the blades through the man's chest and down to his abdomen, causing as much pain as humanly possible in the short time he had to complete his part of the mission. Kase didn't even have a chance to give any final words as Ken struck once again, this time going for his throat, slowly dragging a single blade from left to right, watching as the crimson liquid poured down the man's neck onto the floor. Once his revenge was complete, the assassin stood and wiped the blades clean, not wanting the filth that was Kase clinging to his bugnuks any longer than necessary. Ken left the office and the warehouse with a sense of satisfaction radiating from his form, never once looking back, thinking he was going to have a rather sizeable bruise on his chest come morning.

 

“It's over,” he called through the radio as he headed towards the area where the others should be.

 

“Siberian,” he heard Omi's voice, though it sounded a bit off. “Are you clear?”

 

“Yeah,” Ken replied. “Go ahead and blow it.” Not more than a second had passed when he heard the explosives go off, the entire building going up in flames. He smiled as he thought of how fitting that was. The smile faded as he approached his teammates and noticed the blood staining Omi's assassin gear.

 

“What happened?” he asked, taking in the pallor of the young blonde.

 

“Nothing to worry about,” the archer replied, though is voice was a bit shaky due to the throbbing from the open wound. “The bullet went clean through my shoulder.”

 

“I'm taking him to the hospital so they can close it up,” Aya informed the others. He turned to Yohji. “You can get his bike home?”

 

“No problem,” the ex-detective replied. “We'll see you when you get back.” The lanky blonde headed in the direction of Omi's bike; he would be the one writing the mission report tonight, knowing that the doctors would probably force painkillers down Omi's throat before releasing him. He also knew that Ken was likely to follow Aya to the hospital, but he didn't mind as he knew Manx would be the one reading the report; it really was a great deal more convenient for them now that she knew about everything and wouldn't have a problem with someone other than Omi sending it.

 

“I'm going to follow them to the hospital,” Ken called out, causing Yohji to smirk at his friend's predictability. He waved to acknowledge the statement before picking up the pace. Not long after, sirens filled the air as officials gathered to the scene where they would find no traces of the perpetrators.

 

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“Thanks,” Omi mumbled sleepily as Aya helped him to the couch. After returning from the hospital, the swordsman had helped Omi change out of his mission clothes, at which point the archer said he wanted to stay in the living room over night. The doctors had indeed given him painkillers, strong ones at that, and Omi was finding it difficult to keep his eyes opened. At least I can't feel the pain in my shoulder.

 

“Are you sure you don't want to go to your room?” violet eyes looked questioningly at him.

 

“No,” the blonde replied. “The couch is more appealing right now.” It was as simple as that. No one could ever figure out why, but sometimes, Omi preferred sleeping on the couch over the soft bed in his room. It wasn't a big deal, and the pyro himself couldn't explain, so whenever he took to the couch, they left him alone about it.

 

“Alright,” Aya shrugged. “You know where we are if you need anything.”

 

“Yeah,” came the tired answer as blue eyes started to droop.

 

“I take it the drugs are taking effect,” Ken asked as he entered the room. The redhead nodded.

 

“I'm going to bed,” he stated, standing from his crouched position near Omi.

 

“G'night,” the archer slurred. Ken repeated the wish and took a seat next to the blonde.

 

“Why are you fighting it?” he asked his friend who was still sitting up on the couch despite the fact that he looked like he would fall over any minute, now.

 

“I don't know,” Omi replied slowly, forcing some clarity into his speech. “I guess I don't like being `forced' to sleep, even if it does help with the pain.” He paused searching for the right way to say what he was thinking, though it was difficult with the fog clouding his brain. “I just don't like not having control.” It made sense; they were assassins and to be made vulnerable like this was very unnerving.

 

“I understand,” the former soccer player responded, looking over to his friend, noticing how his blue eyes were glazed over. Before he could say anything else, the blonde head dropped onto his shoulder, prompting a soft smile from the brunette. Not wanting to disturb the healing sleep he knew Omi needed, he carefully adjusted his position so that they would both be comfortable on the couch. Grabbing the blanket that was draped over the back, he covered them and closed his eyes, joining the archer in sleep.

 

“Stop,” the muffled word, along with the thrashing body slightly atop him, jerked the brunette from his slumber. He noticed the beads of sweat, the eyes tightly squeezed shut, and the unmistakable crease of pain encompassing his friends face, all before he was fully awake. He's having a nightmare, Ken concluded as he moved to still the archer before he could pull the stitches in his shoulder. If he hasn't already.

 

“Omi,” he tried while sitting up, bringing the teen with him. “Wake up; it's not real.” The blonde didn't stir, remaining trapped in the hell of his own imagination. “Come on, Omi!” the brunette raised his voice. “You'll hurt yourself if you don't stop this.” It finally worked, blue eyes snapping open, though they contained a wild, panicked look and none of the usual focused clarity. Omi was caught between dream and reality for a moment and tried to escape his friends grasp, jarring the wound in his shoulder. The sharp pain from the injury was enough to completely wake the archer.

 

“Ken?” his breathing was a bit harsh, and he was disoriented both from the remnants of the dream and the pain shooting through his arm. Ken simply sat there holding the teen's head in his lap and smoothing a hand over blonde hair in a soothing motion.

 

“You were having a nightmare,” the older assassin told him quietly. “It must have been really bad, the way you moving around, trying to get away,” he commented as Omi shivered at the reminder of the things his mind had showed him.

 

“It was real,” the blonde whispered as the images replayed behind his eyes. “Memories of a time I'd rather forget.” The former goalie didn't ask; they all had things in their past that haunted them in their sleep. If Omi wanted to tell him about it, he would listen; if not, then Ken would be there for him all the same.

 

“Whatever it was,” the brunette's tone was gentle, comforting. “It's in the past; it can't hurt you anymore.”

 

“I was almost raped,” the teen's voice was barely audible, and Ken had to tilt his head to catch the words. “Our last night in Rosenkreuz… Nagi saved me… I'd never been so scared… the man… he… he gave me something, something that neutralized my powers,” tears were falling unhindered as the hacker got lost in his memory; the older teen simply held onto his friend in an attempt to reassure him that he was safe. “I hadn't thought about that in years,” the blonde continued. “Not until…” Omi drew in a shaky breath; for the life of him, he couldn't figure out why he was talking about this. Up until now, Nagi was the only one who knew about that particular incident. “Not until Ouka showed up the other day. The feelings she was projecting… they remind me of that time. I… I don't know if I can face that again.”

 

“We won't let that happen,” Ken's blue-green eyes shone with such determination that Omi swore they were glowing. “I don't really know how you feel,” the brunette went on. “But I do know that you're strong, and part of that strength is that you have us to lean on when you need it. Just remember that we won't let you fall.” Omi sat up slightly, leaning into the comforting embrace his friend offered.

 

“I know,” he was calmer. “I can do this,” he seemed to be talking to himself. “I have to do this. I can't let it control me.” Ken just held on to his best friend as he tried to exorcise his demons. After a few minutes of silence, the brunette loosened his hold.

 

“Come on,” he said. “We need to make sure you didn't reopen your wound.” The blonde nodded and started to stand. He seemed to have more control over his body now that the drugs had worn off some, but he still leaned on Ken due to the lethargic feeling that remained. The duo made their way to the bathroom where the older assassin checked over the injury and changed the sweat-stained bandages. Once finished, Omi seemed to want to go to his own room instead of returning to the couch. Helping the blonde into to bed, Ken didn't need to be asked to stay; he inherently knew the blue-eyed teen didn't want to be alone just yet and settled on the bed next to him, propping himself up on the pillows, making sure the archer knew he wasn't alone.

 

Omi? Nagi's very alert voice entered into his head once he had relaxed; Ken had already fallen asleep. It's okay, Nagi. The pyro answered the worried tone. You haven't had that nightmare in long time, the telekinetic's concern was almost palpable. I know, but Ken pulled me out of it. Omi gave a mental sigh. It's because of Ouka, isn't it? His lover was very much in tune with him. Yeah, it is. There was a long pause before Nagi said anything. I wish I could be there for you; I'm glad Ken was there to help, since I couldn't. Omi smiled. You're always here, but I know what you mean. He felt the warmth that no doubt meant Nagi was smiling as well. Crawford told me you were shot tonight; I assume that was the pinprick of pain I felt in my left shoulder. The blonde stifled a yawn before replying. That would be it; I'm sorry I didn't tell you before, but those damn painkillers made it so hard to keep my eyes open… I'm actually still feeling tired from them. He felt the amusement from the brunette. I know how much you hate those things. Since you'll most likely be confined to the Koneko for the next couple of days, I'll try to `sneak' over tomorrow. That warmed the archer's heart. Seeing Nagi two days in a row was better than Christmas was for greedy corporations. Make sure you use the back door, and be careful not to be seen. Omi could just see the midnight blue eyes rolling in exasperation. You worry too much. I'll see you tomorrow. The teens closed the conversation, shortly after which Omi's eyes slid shut, the teen falling into a peaceful sleep, feeling safe in the arms of his best friend and the knowledge that his lover was with him, despite their distance.

 

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I can't believe he's having us watch this little bitch; I would fry every synapse in her head, but I'd be hard pressed to find anything in that empty space. Crawford was finding it difficult to concentrate on the job with Schuldig's endless ranting. Get over it. We can't kill her, yet. You'll be one of the first to know when it's time. Green eyes glanced to the American, wondering exactly how much longer they would have to put up with `babysitting' Ouka. Apparently, the girl had finally convinced her father that she would do an infinitely better job at planning the party than his incompetent secretary. Now, Schuldig, Farfarello, and Crawford were stuck at the venue where the party was to be held, keeping an eye on both vile Takatori. How did Nagi get out of this again? The German asked his one-eyed friend. He left to visit Omi before Crawford was awake to have any visions of his absence. The white haired assassin shrugged. Neither could really figure out why the precog just didn't have Schuldig contact him and get him back. They didn't ask, either, going under the assumption that he had `seen' something that would mean Nagi was either needed where he was or needed as far away from here as possible.

 

“He'd most likely crush that little blue head without a second thought,” Farfarello speculated so that only Schuldig could hear him. “With the way she's gushing about the Omi to her father, I'm finding it hard to keep my knives out of sight,” he sneered hatefully.

 

“You should hear what's going through her head,” the telepath muttered darkly attracting the curious, golden gaze of the Irishman. “She's sick… The things going through her head… She doesn't care if he returns her affections or not… and he's her brother,” the German would say no more on the subject, not wanting to think any longer about the sadistic pleasures Ouka was conjuring behind the mask of innocence that shone on her face. Farfarello didn't need him to continue anyway as he had a fair idea of what the German had picked from her mind.

 

“That's exactly why Nagi isn't here,” Crawford, though appearing to be inattentive, had heard every word of the conversation. “He would have reacted to the images from Ouka's mind and lashed out without thinking it through.”

 

“Figures,” Schuldig murmured. “Most people have at least a few shields instinctively in place in spite of the fact that they know nothing about `talents', but she doesn't. Her thoughts are so loud that it's everything I can do to keep from `hearing' everything her perverted little brain is producing.”

 

“Think of it as an exercise in blocking,” the American dryly replied, to which Farfarello snorted in amusement and Schuldig scowled.

 

“You're buying the aspirin for the massive migraine I'm bound to have, Brad,” Crawford didn't argue with the point, knowing that he, himself, was going to need at least half the bottle by the end the day.

 

“Don't call me Brad,” was the only reply he gave; Schuldig smirked knowingly. Better make that two bottles of aspirin, right? The silent comment earned him a glare from his dark haired friend. After hearing your lovely tale about the park on top of this shit? Of course I'll be joining you in downing little white pills. He's a bit touchy today; I guess Ouka's verbal screechings are just as grating as the mental ones. You're lucky you can't feel any pain, Farf. A single eyebrow rose questioningly. And why do you say that? The telepath gestured to both himself and Crawford. If things keep up the way they are, we're going to spend all our money taking care of the headaches these Takatori are causing us just to keep what little sanity we have left in tact. A few heads turned as a scarred, one-eyed man burst out laughing at seemingly nothing; and he wondered why people thought he was psychotic.

 

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“You're serious?!” Ken's eyes were wide with disbelief. Though he could certainly see the humor in what Omi and Nagi were telling him, he just couldn't believe that they had done that.

 

“Ask Yohji,” the archer tried to convince the older brunette that they were indeed telling the truth.

 

“Or Schu,” Nagi added. The three teens were currently in the living room above the Koneko. Omi was laying on one of the couches with his head in Nagi's lap and his feet across Ken's.

 

“You're not kidding,” the former soccer player shook his head; it was easy to see the laughter trying to force it's way from his smiling lips. “I never thought that you two would even consider something like that.”

 

“You can blame Schu for putting the idea in our heads,” the blonde informed the older brunette. “And it's not like we planned on seeing them there,” he gave a half shrug. “But I can't say it was unwelcome.”

 

“They were pretty hot,” the telekinetic agreed. “Apparently we were, too, if the feelings Omi picked up from them is anything to go by.”

 

“In the park,” Ken's shoulders were shaking with amusement. “I'm never going to be able to walk through it again without think about sex.”

 

“Farfarello said the same thing,” Nagi stated. “And I think he was considering the possibilities, as well,” he added dryly.

 

“What? Has he met someone?” Omi looked up into the eyes of his boyfriend.

 

“Not that I know of,” the younger brunette replied. “But that certainly wouldn't stop me from thinking about it.”

 

“Obviously,” Ken interjected. “All Schuldig had to do was mention how exciting it was to fuck in a public place, and you to were all over it, literally.”

 

“You know you would be, too,” Omi retorted; the former goalie didn't even try to deny it as either of the two `psychics' could easily call him on it.

 

“We're certainly a strange group,” he replied instead, referring to all eight assassins.

 

“I don't see anything wrong with that,” Nagi stated while using his power to `float' his drink to his outstretched hand.

 

“I don't either,” the archer added while touching a finger to his lover's cup, reheating the cooled tea. Watching the scene as if it were an everyday occurrence made Ken take pause; he guffawed at realizing what he had just perceived as normal.

 

“I don't think any of us do, really,” he said between breaths. Omi and Nagi just exchanged confused glances, wondering what could have been so amusing. Did we miss something? The pyro asked, to which the other could only shrug.

 

“I have to go relieve Aya in the shop,” Ken groaned after a quick look to his watch, interrupting the younger teens' silent conversation. Lifting Omi's feet and standing from his comfortable position on the couch, the ex-soccer star said he'd see them later, heading to the more mundane job he held.

 

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“Manx,” Aya acknowledge the Kritiker liaison as he took off his work apron. “Mission?” he asked.

 

“No,” she replied. “I'm here to check up on Omi. Who sent the report in, by the way?” She had been curious about that, knowing that the archer could not have done it, though it had been written in the same manner as all the others. She hadn't realized that the other three were even aware of the reports he had to send in.

 

“Yohji,” the crimson haired swordsman answered the question while taking in the slightly confused look on her face. “You didn't know he showed us the mission reports, did you?” At the negative gesture, he continued. “Once he told us about everything, he told us about the way he was supposed to spy on us for Kritiker. He gave us copies of the old reports, showing us where he covered for any slips. Now, he shows them to us before he sends them in.”

 

“I can see where that would be necessary,” Manx eventually responded. “I can just imagine what would have happened if he had given more accurate accounts of your missions,” she added wryly. “If I had known about what really happened during the human chess mission, I might have pulled you from the team.”

 

“I know,” Aya stated evenly. “That's why he does it. We don't hold that fact against you, though,” he told her. “We know that, until recently, you were only trying to protect Omi from things you didn't realize he was already aware of.”

 

“And it seems I was the one being protected all along,” she sighed, uncharacteristically running fingers through her long, red hair.

 

“But you know, now,” the violet-eyed assassin pointed out. “You know he wasn't hiding things to hurt you,” he added in a softer tone.

 

“I know,” Manx gave him a small, sincere smile. “I'm just having trouble coming to terms with the fact that he never really needed me.”

 

“You know that's not true,” he told her. “Had you not been around, all of this,” he waved a hand, gesturing to the Koneko and all the secrets it held, “would never have been possible. And, he thinks of you as a second mother, something he'd been needing for a very long time.” The green eyed woman could only smile gratefully at the words which gave only the truth.

 

“Where is he?” she asked, thinking it was about time she went up to see her `son'.

 

“I think he's in the living room with Nagi,” at her questioning glance, he elaborated. “Nagi is his boyfriend… the telekinetic.”

 

“Really?” she quirked an eyebrow. “Do you think they should be left alone together?” There were her motherly instincts kicking in.

 

“Manx,” Aya's voice held a hint of warning. “They're both trained assassins, they've known each other going on eleven years, and they've been together for just over a year; it's not something casual for them. They're also very mature having had to grow up the way they did. If they want to have sex, you couldn't and shouldn't try to stop them.” It wouldn't be a good idea to tell her about what I finally got Yohji to tell me. Aya inwardly laughed as he recalled the lanky blonde's recount of the events in the park. “Besides, they wouldn't do something like that where anyone could see them.” Manx didn't notice the amusement underlying the seriousness in his voice, though he did manage to say that last bit with a straight face.

 

“That's not what I was thinking,” It was, but he's right about it. “But they are teenagers, and I wouldn't put it past them not to be able to control their hormones long enough to keep them from reopening the wound in Omi's shoulder.” Violet eyes saw right through the defensive words.

 

“Whatever you say,” he started up the stairs, leaving Manx at the bottom. Stopping he looked over his shoulder. “I thought you were going to see Omi?” The woman nodded, following him until they reached the hallway, where he headed for his room while she continued on to where Omi was supposed to be. She had to pause for a moment at the sight that greeted her. A dark haired Japanese teen, whom she presumed to be Nagi, was gently stroking the archer's blonde hair. Omi appeared to be asleep, his head comfortably positioned in the telekinetic's lap; a soft smile touched her lips as she decided that the young assassin was just fine. Turning, she left the lovers to themselves thinking how right Aya had been with his earlier assessment of their relationship. They really love each other, she thought as she replayed the heart-warming scene in her mind.

 

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“I take it Omi and Nagi told you about the park incident?” Yohji asked while taking some money from a customer. Ken just looked at him with innocent eyes.

 

“I have no idea what you're talking about,” the brunette replied, but he was unable to keep the up the act.

 

“Sure you don't, Kenken,” the blonde smiled knowingly. “You can't keep a straight face anytime you look at me.” It was almost time to close and the last of the customers were paying for their purchases, leaving the two free to converse.

 

“I wonder what all you fangirls would say if they knew,” Ken taunted, ignoring the hated nickname.

 

“What does it matter?” the former playboy knew his friend wasn't serious, and truth be told, he really wouldn't care if the more zealous of their customers found out he was in a relationship with another man; it might just drive them off.

 

“It probably doesn't,” the aqua-eyed teen admitted before taking on a more serious tone. “Too bad it's not possible to tell everyone; it would certainly make the days less hectic in here.” Finally, the last person left the store, allowing them to lock the door and pull the gate down.

 

“Yeah,” Yohji sighed. “But if the wrong people saw us together…” he left the sentence to hang in the air. Ken was well aware of what his friend was trying to say.

 

“The thing is, it's probably just a small taste of how Omi felt when he was alone in keeping the secret,” the brunette mused. “But it's easy to see why he was so strung out all the time. I mean, I'm just friends with Nagi and Farf, and I hate having to make sure I cover my tracks anytime I want to talk to one of them. I imagine it's the same for you and Omi. Aya, too,” he added as an afterthought, remembering that the crimson haired assassin had struck up friendships with both the American and Irishman.

 

“At least now,” the blonde began, “we have someone to cover for us when we disappear. And it's really a big help that Manx knows. I've never found it more difficult to lie to someone than I have to her.”

 

“No shit,” Ken snorted. “But we did pull it off.” The two men went about cleaning the store before they were interrupted.

 

“Manx?” Yohji sounded surprised; the brunette was surprised, as well. “I thought you left a couple pf hours ago?”

 

“I did,” she replied crisply. “You have a new mission.”

 

“I'll get the others,” Ken offered as he threw his apron in the general direction of the counter. Ten minutes later, the four assassins found themselves watching yet another video featuring the silhouette of Persia. The difference was that, this time, they were being shown pictures of the most terrifying creatures they had ever seen. What had them all cringing in disgust was the fact that each and everyone of these `things' had been human at one point. The name of the target was finally given, though they would have taken great pleasure in removing the sick bastard from the planet had it been someone else. The fact that they were finally going after one of the Takatori, Masafumi specifically, was just icing on the cake. They all knew better than to bring up the fact that Omi was injured, either; he wouldn't be left out of this one.

 

“I'm in,” four distinct voices stated in unison, Manx never having needed to ask the question.

 

 

TBC

End of chapter note: Yes, I gave the waitress a name on purpose. No, Mako will not be truly involved with any of the guys… you'll see what I mean. Masafumi's coming up, so that means we'll be seeing Schreient soon, as well, which promises to be fun. And I can't really explain where the whole park thing came from; I wasn't planning on writing it that way, but my fingers had it all typed out before I even knew what I was doing. I like how it turned out, though, so it stays. I won't run it into the ground by bringing it up very often, but I've already thought of how to use in much later in the story. I got a good laugh out of it, anyway, what with having the four going around telling the others about it, which seems plausible because they're all guys, after all.