Weiss Kreuz Fan Fiction ❯ The Lives We Lead ❯ Battle ( Chapter 6 )

Chapter 6 Weiß

 

Arashi came down the stairs to see the rest of the boys already prepared. She gave a grin; “Alright, lets go!” she was dressed to kill.

She had on black combat boots with thick, chunk, heels. Most of the rest of her ensemble was hidden beneath a thick, black trench coat.

Aya was staring out the window, with hands behind his back. He looked over his shoulder at her. Youji was slumped over in one of the chairs. Ken and Omi both entered the room at the same time and watched her.

Arashi stared back at Omi and Ken when she noticed their fixed stares. Aya started speaking, “We've come to a decision.”

Youji stood up and started walking towards her. She glanced to her other side and noticed that Omi and Ken were closing in. “And what would that decision be?” Arashi asked nervously.

Aya watched her for a moment then replied, “You aren't coming.”

Arashi leapt forward, hearing the boys crash together behind her. “Like hell I'm not coming!” she yelled at Aya.

Aya watched her passively. Omi and Ken both jumped for her at the same time. Arashi easily sidestepped them both, stabbing her elbow into their spines between their shoulders.

Omi cried out and landed on the ground heavily. “Aya, you're bringing me there. I'm part of the team and I'm going to fight.” Arashi demanded.

Youji shot out and encompassed her body in his arms. “Youji! Let go of me!” when he didn't comply she began to kick. He wrapped a single leg through hers and she found herself unable to move much at all.

Omi jumped forward and started shedding her of her battle gear. Aya stepped forward, “We can't allow you to come.”

Arashi stilled as she watched him, waiting for an explanation. Youji loosened his hold and stepped back. Arashi started off, “I… I… I'm going to fight them! If it means I'm going to plow you all down like a bitch!”

She pushed Omi out of the way and punched Youji's side. She felt Ken come closer to her so she stepped forward and shot a leg back at him, connecting with his stomach. She spun around to attack Aya when there was a sudden volt of pain that shot down her back.

Arashi held her neck where she felt the impact and came to her knees. Aya looked over her at Youji, “What the hell was that!” he glared at the blonde for trying to knock Arashi out with a vase.

He looked down at the stilled raven-haired girl and used Youji's help to pick her up. They brought her to the storage room where they locked her in once again, she was conscious but she wasn't able to struggle much since the hit to her nerves cord.

She banged against the door, “Damn it Aya! Get back here and open this door! You aren't going without me! Do you hear me? Aya!”

He spoke from the other side of the door, “I'm here.”

Arashi pounded more, “Open the door!”

“No.” was his simple reply.

“Aya! Come on!” Arashi yelled back.

Aya was sliding on his gloves, “Why are you so anxious to die?”

Arashi stopped pounding for a moment and replied, “Because we won't die if you let me come. Come on Aya, I can do this, we're not going to die.”

Aya attached his katana and turned to the door, “Yamaguchi will probably by some time later today, keep noisy enough and she'll probably hear you. Good bye.” Then he turned and left, with Arashi still tried to open the locked door, yelling for him to come back.

~*~

All of Schwarz was standing on a subway, with enormous bags in hand. Farfarello pulled at the seems on the inside of his `shirt' and finally gave up when he came to the conclusion that Brad made it `Farfie Proof'.

A little boy pointed up at him and said, “Mommy, look! That man looks like a pirate!”

Farfarello turned his insane gold eye at the boy and leapt forward. He was wearing a straight jacket under his trench coat. But he said he'd be a `good boy' so they didn't buckle him up, which liberalized him to a great amount of freedom of movement… even though he couldn't use hands.

(Straight jackets cover your hands, if they aren't strapped up, you look retarded, if they are, you're insane… *thumbs up* More lessons of life from me~)

As expected though, he was instantly pulled back by Nagi's telekinetic force. He felt the straight jacket tighten around him as the buckles all latched together at once. When Nagi finished pulling him back to his original place, Schuldig put a hand on his shoulder.

Schuldig decided to at least humor Farfarello's sadistic need for horror.

He leaned forward and said to the terrified child, “Hey, don't mess with the Devil kid. He'll come looking for you the second your mommy looks the other way.” He winked and stood back up.

The mother scolded them both, “You shouldn't pick on children!”

Schuldig smirked, “You shouldn't either. Isn't it punishable with 5 years if you beat your child?”

The woman's eyes widened incredibly. She looked around with a gaping mouth then picked up the kid and rushed off to another section. Nagi huffed, “I don't like this. Would someone find a seat?”

Crawford felt some cramping in his own legs and obliged. He approached some elderly people sitting in the chairs. He leaned forward and with a smile as smooth as Satan's and a voice as sweet as acid said, “Excuse me. These seats are for the handicapped, you realize that don't you?”

The old people looked at each other and slowly stood up, bones creaking and muscles pulling. They slowly made their way to a place they could stand.

Crawford muttered, “Well that took bloody forever.” He sat down in one of the chairs and patted the one next to him for the others to join.”

Schwarz sat in the chairs and waited for their stop at the very last stop on that train route. They simultaneously walked out of the subway station.

Schuldig now had to carry Farfarello's bag since he was still in a straight jacket. And he didn't like it one bit!

They made their way down the street (via the alley way) for about a mile. Then they entered another subway station, through locked gates. Nagi left the gate a little bit opened for Weiß.

Once underground, Brad looked around to make sure they were alone, even though it was an abandoned subway link. He motioned to the others and Nagi let all the buckles on Farfarello's jacket snap free. He waved his arms around shortly then ripped the coat right off, tearing it to shreds.

He knelt down and opened his bag, pulling out gear and applying it.

~*~

Aya sat in the back of the bus with the rest of Weiß.

Ken asked, “Why are we sitting together? What if someone sees us?”

Aya grunted, “Because it frankly doesn't matter any more. Since we are going to be dead shortly, it wont mean much now will it?”

Ken thought about it then realized how stupid it would really be to split up for nothing.

Omi suddenly gasped, “I forgot to study for my test tomorrow!” All of the four other members turned to stare at him.

Ken rolled his eyes and looked back out the window. The others did the same… except for Aya, who was in the center, left alone to fend off people staring with an icy glare.

Youji stated, “The lights look really nice tonight.”

Aya flicked his gaze out the window and commented, “They look the same as always.”

Youji continued to gaze out the window, “That's not what I meant. They're just… nicer tonight, I bet because this will be the last time we'll ever see them.”

Aya rolled her eyes, “Balinese, I never knew you were so poetic.”

Youji turned back towards the rest of the group. He leaned against the chair in front of him, “That's why they say the Gods envy us. Because we will get old and die, but they are immortal.”

Ken raised an eyebrow, “The Gods envy us because we're going to die.”

Youji gave a nod, “Because to us everything is brighter, every noise is more beautiful, and every drink is sweeter. It's our only life so to us it is beautiful. We only see it once. But they see the same thing forever. And that is why they envy us.”

Aya pulled his gaze away; he looked back down the aisle before him and glared, eventually meeting his own icy reflection in the rear view mirror.

~*~

Farfarello kicked his bag away after fully covering himself in all types of weaponry. He wore no armor, as usual, but he was wearing so many weapons, they just might pass as armor.

Nagi was trying to figure out how to use a gun. He flicked a few switches wondering if one of them was the safety. Then he tried to shoot; nothing happened so he pointed it at his face and stared down the barrel.

Schuldig jumped forward and snatched it out of his hands, “Nagi!” He breathed a deep sigh of relief as the boy stared up at him. Schuldig opened the barrel and pointed, “You only put 5 bullets in.”

Nagi's eyes widened and he put a hand up to his eye, “Oh my God!” he pushed away the gun and shook his head, “I don't want it.”

Brad finished binding a bandage around his knuckles to insure they didn't get sore after much punching. “Nagi, keep the gun. You might need it.”

Schuldig snickered, “Your actually going to wear bronze knuckles under the bandages? Like in those `Gangsta' movies from America?”

Brad shrugged, “Well I was thinking of giant red boxing gloves…” Schuldig and him stared at each other then he sighed, “That was a joke.”

Schuldig looked Brad up and down. He seemed to be merely in slacks and dress shirt with a tie. But Schuldig knew better than that, the American had to have several more weapons cleverly concealed. Bradley suddenly asked in an amused voice, “Why Schuldig, are you checking me out?”

Schuldig understood that Bradley was trying to frustrate him. And instead made it back fire, he stepped closer and looped a finger through the hilt of one of his guns and purred, “Why yes, and I like what I see. Do we have some time before the kittens get here?”

Bradley lost all amusement and pushed him away.

Chikaru danced over. She had her hair pulled back into a long ponytail, tied together with a bright red piece of cloth. (Not large enough to be a ribbon.) She had a pair of large gloves at her waist, which matched somewhat large shoes. They made her look smaller and gangly. She had on a white dress shirt with a red tub top underneath. And her shorts, which could hardly be considered clothes, were khakis.

She threw out her arms and gave an open mouthed smile with big eyes. She waited till she finally got a confused response from Nagi. She took the hand he was scratching his head with and gripped it, “Why aren't you guys happy?”

Bradley paused for a moment, “Happy?”

She nodded, “Happy!”

Schuldig watched Chikaru's expressions and briefly wondered if she knew they were going to die. He looked inside her mind and yes, she did know. And she was accepting it with open arms; happy that she was not dying from failure, and she was also ending this in the company of the people she liked best.

Bradley sent him a message, `She shouldn't be here.'

Schuldig agreed mentally, `Yes, but what can we do? She had to come.'

Bradley responded, `Actually, Takatori couldn't care less. And even if she came, it doesn't mean we cant make sure she doesn't get involved in the battle. Every one will just think she was the only one to survive.'

Bradley passed a command to Nagi then patted Schuldig on the back, “Do what you want.” He slipped a note into the German's pocket and walked away.

Nagi looked away from Schuldig and Chikaru and walked in the same direction as Brad. Chikaru looked around them noticing the people leaving then looked up at the orange haired man, “Schuldig-.”

She didn't finish her sentence though; she became slightly nervous when Schuldig suddenly pressed up close to her. Chikaru put up her hands defensively, since she didn't not know the intentions of the telepath.

Schuldig took her smaller hands into his own and kept her where she was. She was partially unable to move because of his grip but was completely unable to more because of his sapphire gaze.

He moved closer to her again and looked down into her eyes and at her face. She stared back up at him, allowing brief glances at the other members of Schwarz who seemed to be forcing themselves to ignore her.

In the silence that passed between them, there was an interruption, caused by an abandoned subway train to barrel through the abandoned subway stop. Chikaru unconsciously leaned forward to escape the possibility of getting her hair caught on the side of the car, even though she was a good few feet away from it.

(The subway area is abandoned; the subway car was just in the area collecting dust so Nagi made it come to this point. He's the one controlling; they are still the only people down there, no conductors.)

Chikaru stuttered slightly, “Wh- What are you doing?”

The cars came to a screeching halt. Schuldig put his chin next her ear and whispered, “Chikaru promise me something… At my funeral…”

Chikaru struggled against him now, “No! Don't say anything! Don't speak of it!”

Schuldig continued, “Cry for me, during my funeral. Say something nice and never forget me, would you? Since no body else will do any, will you promise me that?”

Chikaru shook her head and tried to pull her hands free to no success. Schuldig repeated himself, “Promise me?”

Chikaru finally agreed, “I promise!”

He closed his eyes and leaned his cheek against hers, “Thank you.” Then, in a swift motion, he lifted her slightly and pushed her through one of the open doors of the train.

Chikaru looked up from her place on the ground confusedly. Then stood up and started forward but the doors slammed in her face. She stared at them in a frustrated pout and pushed at them. There was a groan as the wheels of the train began to move again.

She looked out at Schuldig and panicked, “Schuldig!” he didn't lift his gaze from the ground. She beat on the doors, “Schuldig! Please! Don't leave!”

As the train started moving she backed up and ran down the aisle, throwing tearful glances and pleas out at him. She started yelling the same thing in several languages, “Schuldig! Bitte!” she stumbled and kept running, “Onegai, favore, sil vous, bitte. Schuldig! Please! Don't leave me alone!”

She ran into the glass window, pressing her hands up against it. She gave a pleading look at Schuldig; tears were battling the corners of her eyes. She watched him as the train disappeared down the tunnel.

He wasn't looking at her. He was forcing himself to stare down into the pit where the tracks lay.

The last thing she saw of him, was him mouthing, “Sayonara”.

He closed his eyes and opened them, forcing away tears, knowing that it was the last time he would see Chikaru, and he wasn't even allowing himself to look.

Schuldig waited there at the rim of the pit for some time after the rattling of the train was gone. Bradley muttered, “You know she's just going to jump out the door when it stops and join us. She'll just avoid the electric tracks.”

Nagi nodded, “I know. I'm on it.” He opened his eyes and they were glowing white like they did when he sometimes used his powers to the max.

The boys looked over their shoulders at Schuldig. Inside the pit, flames suddenly exploded. Schuldig didn't flinch; it was questionable if he'd even noticed it. They billowed out, like devilish, red, rolling clouds.

Chikaru was still pressed against the window when she saw the wall of red flames bursting down the narrow tunnel. She threw herself to the ground and covered herself as the glass broke, allowing a thick breath of heat in.

The flames on the tracks before Schuldig rolled amongst themselves in their thick bulging forms before dying out as he turned and walked away slowly. Chikaru was still on the ground, completely still. She slowly blinked open her eyes and remained motionless before pushing herself up.

She shut her eyes tightly again and her body began to shake. She squeezed her fists when she noticed a piece of paper in her palm.

Chikaru opened here eyes and opened the note in her palm that Schuldig had apparently planted. (Schuldig didn't know what was on it, he assumed something useful, he didn't read it though or he wouldn't be giving it because of what's on the back.)

She read it; the writing seemed to be Bradley's.

 

Malvagita

My sincerest apologies for leaving on such short notice. More apologies for the lack of profession in this letter. I still find it important for you to know that I've desired you hoped yours and my acquaintance to end better than this. To support that wish, I've left a message for you at the Schwarz residence. It's on my laptop, the flowers are for you.

You'll probably find out where I've gone, but I hope that by that time the confessions words of my message (on the lap top) will not open any wounds…

With my best regards and wishes

Brad J. Crawford

 

Chikaru turned it over after confirming that nothing there was for her. She turned it over where an inky pen had jotted down a message in an incredibly messy format. It actually looked like someone just put it on their lap and wrote it.

 

The Fallen Angel

There is much I wanted to tell you but never got the chance to. If I had another day… so much I could do… but I don't.

So do this much for me as my last request. At my funeral, don't cry. There will be enough people to shake their heads in pity. Never cry for me or anyone else, laugh and remember the happiest moments of your life… and laugh for me, God may let me feel the moment.

Broken Porcelain

 

 

Chikaru squeezed the paper in her grip and leaned back against the door. She brought her knees up and held onto the paper as though it was a link to the rest of Schwarz and she wouldn't have to say goodbye.

~*~

 

The boys got off their bus. Aya briefly looked around them and determined the direction of their destination. They made their way behind several buildings that were built around, and eventually hid the entrance to the abandoned subway.

Aya motioned, “Bombay, Siberian, go that way. Balinese and I will go through this entrance. Just for caution.”

Ken and Omi nodded then headed to their assigned entrance. Aya and Youji ran down the stairs quickly, leaning forward so much, they appeared to be falling. They slipped through the open part of the gate like a liquid and continued.

On the other side however was loud cursing and thumping. Aya and Youji reached the bottom, skidding to a halt and glaring fiercely at Schwarz.

Ken and Omi tumbled down the other steps. Omi pushed himself up quickly and explained to Aya, “We had to hop the gate and we slipped.”

Aya ignored him, keeping his eyes the targets. The pale yellow glow of the lights reflected off Crawford's glasses, making it impossible to see the expression his eyes held. Brad chuckled, “You're early… or I guess you arrived exactly when expected.”

Aya's eyes flicked towards a clock hanging high in the cement cavern. It was less than a minute away from starting time. He examined each member of Schwarz. Schuldig's eyes were hidden under his bangs. Nagi seemed rather antsy. Crawford had a completely neutral expression. Farfarello was completely still, appearing to be listening for something.

Schuldig forced himself to clear his mind and focus on his opponents. Omi had that incredibly exaggerated determined look. Ken seemed so tense he would snap if some one tapped his shoulder. Youji was staring directly at his matched opponent, Schuldig. And Aya was trying to read each of their expressions.

`And… wait… one, two, three, four… where's…'

Schuldig and Aya both gave a small gasp at the same time. They connected glares when they realized they both observed the same thing. Schuldig smirked, “Where's your fifth kitten?”

Aya replied with a question, making sure to not think of her location lest Schuldig get the better of him, “Where's your new pet?”

Crawford interrupted, “Safer than yours I can assure.”

Aya glared and his mouth became a thin line. All fell silent again until there was the small chaffing sound of Farfarello taking stance. Aya glanced up and realized the insane man had heard the minute hand click, and it was time to begin.

Aya dashed forward towards Crawford who was in stance to fight. Aya put his sword before him and charged yelling, “Shi-ne!”

Crawford's eyes almost closed as he slid to the side in a fluid motion, delivering a bronze knuckled punch to Aya's upper arm. Aya gasped and jumped back, holding his sword before him and gripping it tightly, trying to bring feeling back to his arm.

Crawford clicked his tongue, “Much to slow, now lets try it again.”

Aya glared at the maliciously smiling older man and engaged an attack yet again.

~*~

Farfarello had been fighting incredibly violently, completely zoning in on Ken's neck, and thusly, that is where every attack was aimed.

Ken ended up having to spend more time blocking attacks than making them. `this is ridiculous' he thought, `So long as I can't even attack, I can't kill'

Ken jumped back from another mad swing of the blade. He paused, bringing up his bug nucks and clashing them together, pretty much just to rev himself up.

Farfarello smirked, “Say your prayers kitten. Some one may have mercy.”

~*~

Youji and Schuldig were playing quite the game of cat and mouse. Youji tried as best as he could to avoid all contact with the German, because as soon as he got close, it would be all over for the Weiß kitten.

Youji charged Schuldig who charged as well. Youji had his fist raised but at the last second he fell to his knees and aimed his wire at the German's neck.

Schuldig didn't hesitate, he chuckled, “You still think too much kitten.” Then he was gone. Youji's eyes widened in shock and anger, good chances didn't come often with the Mastermind. And most of the time the `good chances' were just illusions.

Youji realized he had to get up, he thought to himself, `Where is that damn-.'

“RIGHT HERE KUDO!” Schuldig screamed into Youji's ear. Youji's eyes widened and he yelped in surprise.

Youji spun and shot the wire again, Schuldig was gone. Irritated, Youji got to his feet only to be promptly knocked off them as something thick and metal collided with his ankle.

~*~

Aya smirked when the American's fist, aimed for his face, instead collided with the blade. There was a great metallic noise and his eyes widened when he saw the bandages fall to the ground revealing what was left of the bronze knuckles Crawford wore.

There was a cry of pain and Aya looked up to see that the missing part of the knuckles had shot out, coincidentally knocking Youji off his feet.

Aya growled under his breath, “Metal knuckles.”

Crawford smirked, “You didn't see it coming? Then you must have not seen this either.” Brad swung his other fist, which connected with Aya's jaw.

Aya fell to the ground, sword still in hand, his other hand on his jaw feeling for cracks. “Bastard.” He sneered as he spat out blood in the direction of the suit and tie Brad had taken off earlier.

Crawford watched him quietly. Aya had a small feeling that he had foreseen something.

~*~

Omi reached for his pockets and pulled out more darts. He grabbed three and threw them at Nagi who was getting ready to attack him physically.

Nagi stopped and dodged, the darts slightly squeezing to the side. They barely brushed his hair, and then were gone. He stopped and breathed for a moment.

Omi reached for his pockets again then gasped, “I'm out of darts.”

Nagi breathed then replied, “That's unfortunate. You should have come better prepared Tsukiyono.”

Omi furrowed his brows and commented, “You're breathing heavy.”

Nagi nodded, “As are you.”

Omi replied, “You were dodging most of my attacks instead of redirecting them with your powers.”

Nagi defended, “I used my powers, that's how I was able to dodge them.”

Omi huffed, “Not how you usually do. What's wrong Prodigy?”

Nagi's lips thinned, sealing off his heavy breathing, “Worry about yourself kitten.”

Schuldig mind came to his head, `The kid's right, Nagi. What's wrong?'

Nagi shot back mentally, `Don't you have something better to do?'

Schuldig replied, `Yeah… I'll be back, I've got a Balinese that needs its nails clipped.'

Omi stood up, “Ready?”

Nagi didn't reply, he instead ran forward with his fist up.

~*~

Youji stumbled away from the Schuldig when he was suddenly flattened against the ground, face first into the concrete. The German was on top of him, straddling his hips, annoying as it was; it was definitely more than just annoying play.

Youji struggled, not sure what the Mastermind had planned. Not wanting to find out, Kudo thrust back an arm, connecting an elbow to Schuldig's thigh.

Schuldig cursed in German and smacked the back of Youji's head. Youji grunted then squirmed, trying to see if her could `redirect the aim' of his elbow. Schuldig jumped off him and Youji scurried to his feet.

They both glared at each other for a while longer. Youji started towards the German again and engaged hand-to-hand combat. They both ended up with a few bruises but nothing very serious from the attacks.

Youji once again resorted to his wire and this time saw the wire twist and wrap itself around the wrist of Schuldig. He smirked and stepped out of range. He looked over his shoulder at the man and smirked, yanking on the wire.

Schuldig's hand was coincidentally pulled forward. He shot his sapphire eyes downward at his hand. Youji chuckled, “Gotcha.” Then he yanked it hard, waiting for the fountain of blood to pour from all around the wrist… but nothing happened.

Schuldig lifted his hand and stared at it somewhat amusedly, he pulled his hand back towards himself, Youji pulled against him. Though Schuldig is stronger than Youji, a knife sharp wire is hard to fight against; every side is the sharp side.

Youji looked at the hand and realized that the Mastermind had wrestled off one of his own gloves. (Youji wears special gloves so his hands and wrists can't get messed up by his own weapon.)

Schuldig chuckled, “What an ineffective… leash? Was that what you had in mind?” Youji gasped when he saw the subtle but growing roll of the wire. The dirty blonde looked down to see both his hands, gloved and ungloved, securely attached by his wire.

Schuldig pulled experimentally, watching the wire cut into the outside of the man's hand, dripping blood. “This could be amusing.” He gave a harsher yank, pulling the man forward before grabbing a fist full of wire and literally swinging Youji by his wrists off into a wall.

Youji smacked hard against the wall then to the ground, he groaned and reminded himself to clear his head and get the wire off of his hands. He stood up and retracted the wire. Schuldig allowed the thin metal string to slide from his glove hand.

Youji stands up, a plan forming in the back of his head where he hardly knows what it is. He licked his lips and took a deep breath as Schuldig drew nearer. When the taller man was close enough, Youji asked casually, with a dirty smirk, “So, you got to have a nice good bye screw I'm assuming?”

Schuldig stared at him with narrowed eyes.

Youji continued, “You screwed your little blonde pet into the mattress for a good bye didn't you?” then he took a rather daring step, “I wonder if she was as good of a screw as she was for me and the others.”

Schuldig's eyes narrowed and he snarled, “Bastard! You don't…” he didn't even finish his sentence, instead resorting to charging at Youji. Youji's eyes widened and he ducked just in time for Schuldig's fist to slam hard into the wall, leaving a crack in it.

Youji was already off and running when Schuldig turned around to catch him. The Balinese knew that it was a dangerous game he planned to play, but he didn't have the opportunity to wait for better chances.

~*~

Aya rolled forward onto his knees and jammed the hilt of his sword into Crawford's jaw. The American's head snapped back, his glasses fell off and coffee eyes widened in shock.

He fell backwards, landing flat on the ground. Aya stood up, with surprised eyes he stared down at the Oracle.

Across the station Nagi stopped dead in his tracks with his battle. He shot his gaze towards the team leader and gasped. The young Japanese boy mentally commanded some piece of debris to come to Crawford's aid.

Bradley looked over and noticed a lead pipe. He reached out and grabbled it, deflecting Aya's quick attack.

Crawford got to his feet quickly and allowed himself to automatically fall into place in the fight with Aya. Mean while he tried to think out the image that had come within his mind, it wasn't just a simple pre cognition. This was an image that was complicated; the type that told him what would happen in the far future, they were always harder to understand.

His heart skipped as he saw it, Weiß, covered in blood, a great mission having been completed, Schwarz watching quietly as the `kittens' stalked off. Then he saw himself, and the rest of Schwarz, before Malvagita taking the oath to be her private assassins. Crawford quickly pieced together that Weiß would kill someone with ownership over Schwarz, and… everything would unravel how he wanted it.

~*~

Youji could feel Schuldig closing in on him, he pulled his mind off the thoughts of what he hoped to do and kept his mind thinking, `Just a little further, just a little further.'

He got to the rim and leapt out over the tracks. Youji tried to keep himself confident that Schuldig couldn't tell what he would do from body language. He hoped that the German was so sure of himself with his abilities; he hadn't taken the time to predict from physical movements when he was still in training.

Mid-air, Balinese twisted around, clicking his watch and allowing the wire to shoot forth.

Schuldig had a look of shock written on his face. Within his mind he had just heard Crawford's order, `Keep your Weiß kitten alive. Don't break his mind or kill him.' The next thing he knew, the sharp wire was constricting around his chest.

Youji pulled himself back to the ridge, at Schuldig's expense. The wire cut through the thin fabric of his clothes and drew blood.

Youji held a smirk of triumph on his face, “You see Mastermind. By the end of the day, the good guy always wins.” He tugged on the wire, bringing the much more vulnerable Schuldig to his knees.

Schuldig slightly winced but otherwise mirrored the smirk, “Does he Kudoh? I've got a girl who's waiting with hope for my return, a `prize' I find pretty decent… Have you even gotten Nue- or I guess you prefer Asuka- to stop ridiculing you? Is she waiting for you ”

Youji's eyes widened in anger and emotion. Schuldig continued, “Did you say good bye to anyone? Is there anyone waiting for you?”

Youji blinked a few times, breathing heavily, when he heard the smirk of the evil man before him. His eyes widened and he mouthed, “No.”

Schuldig nodded, “Oh yes, indeed yes. You may have blocked me for longer than I would have expected, but in the inside you are still a weak lovesick heart. You could only keep me out for so long Youji.”

~*~

Nagi finally got the better of the slightly smaller blonde, Omi. The young Weiß member looked up at him, breathing heavily, “We're so evenly matched, you without your powers and I without my darts anyways.”

Nagi paused for a moment realizing that it was true. He glanced up for a moment and noticed the rest of Schwarz was struggling, he determined that if he wanted to help his team he'd have to take care of Omi now.

His arms fell to his sides when he felt his gun. His eyes widened, Nagi pulled out the gun and held it at Omi. Omi gasped, staring up the barrel at the shaking boy who held the gun.

`Nagi' the said boy nearly jumped and pulled the trigger then when he heard his name from within his head.

`Yes Crawford?' Nagi replied mentally, keeping his aim on the kitten's head.

`Don't shoot' said Crawford, `Put away the gun. Don't kill him.'

Nagi's eyes widened, `Don't kill them?'

`It was in a vision. Don't ask questions.'

Nagi grunted irritated, `Then what do you suggest I do?'

`I don't care; just don't hurt him too bad. Just occupy him for a while. We wont have to keep this up too much longer.'

Nagi sighed a small breath of relief; he threw the gun into the tracks ditch behind him, and stared down at the notably surprised look on Bombay's face.

~*~

Ken gasped as the Berserker nearly removed his kidney with a wild swing. The young brunette boy held his claw up and took a deep breath, about to go in for his final blow.

Farfarello saw the stance that he'd watched from vents and rooftops many times. `I remember this scene' he thought, `This is the part where he jumps towards me with his fist. Then its my turn to block his fist, leaving my side open for his claw, instead he will kick for my thigh, and dig those claws into my back.'

Nonetheless, Farfarello played his part as any good actor and held his sword, appearing to be ignorant to the replayed plan, luring in the sense of victory. Farfarello licked his lips to avoid smirking as he thought, `Stupid reruns.'

Ken jumped forward and Farfarello readied himself to twist slightly. He'd catch the fist, but avoid the claw, countering it with a nice long sword through the kitten's lung.

`Farfarello!' Crawford yelled urgently into Farfarello's mind, `don't kill him! We need them to stay alive, I have plans for them.'

The Irish man ignored the slight disappointment in him and instead slammed his elbow into the slope between the Weiß boy's shoulders. Ken gasped in pain and fell to the ground, teetering over the edge of consciousness.

~*~

The dirty blonde felt a cold creeping feeling spreading from inside him. Like a black mist, coiling outwards, making its way down his neck from his mind, and into his arm before reaching his hands.

Youji fought it for as long as he could, but it was a battle that was over as soon as his mental barriers were lowered. He tried to force his grip to steal closed. But the icy dark fog absorbed his hands within and he couldn't even feel them as they let go of the wire.

Schuldig offered another smug grin, “Very good Kudoh. Now lets see what else you've got in that mind of yours, neh?”

Youji felt the presence delve deeper into his mind, which he had been guarding so carefully. He tried to force the alien feeling out, but was soon greeted with a sharp pain from his back. He looked down and saw the long smooth column of the extendable sword the Berserker used.

Youji's eyes widened and he screamed in pain, Schuldig in exact sync with him oddly enough. Youji fell forward, clutching his stomach, trying to ignore the pain.

From across the floor Aya snapped his head over his shoulder, his eyes widened in shock when he saw Youji lying on his stomach, blood pooling around him. His eyes darted when he saw the Irish man licking his knife/sword extendable. “Bombay! Help Balinese!” he ordered towards Omi.

Omi looked up at the figure above him, as if silently asking permission. Nagi stepped aside and Omi jumped up and ran to Youji's side.

Aya realized he'd left the American unattended. He turned back around, but the Prophet wasn't there. He then noticed him by the pay phone.

The phone started its ring and Crawford picked it up. Nagi looked at him and Crawford shot a look back showing he had not been previously expecting any phone calls, especially not to this location.

“Hello.” Started Crawford, “How did you get this number?” he demanded. After a pause he began, “We're fighting Weiß…” “It was orders from Mr. Takatori…” “Yes, he's right beside me…” “What do you want him for?” “Because I think it is my business...” “Fine, here he is, but just know, I don't like it when I don't know about the plans involving me.”

Crawford turned around with the phone raised, “It's for you, Abyssinian.”

Aya's eyes narrowed, “You must be kidding. I'm not falling for that lame ass trick.”

Crawford sighed, “It's Esset, I'd suggest you take the call but if you prefer not to, then by all means.”

Aya had his sword out and ready, he studied the American's unreadable features for a moment then said, “Fine. Put the phone down and step away.”

Crawford rolled his eyes and replied, “He'll be right on.” Then he put the phone down and stepped away smirking, “Has anyone told you, you're more skittish than a cat?”

Aya waited till the man was backed away to his liking then walked to the phone, ignoring the other's previous comment. Aya reached out and picked up the phone, watching as Omi worked to stem Youji's bleeding. “Hello.”

On the other side came an old voice, “Fujimiya, yes?”

Aya remained silent as a reply. The voice continued, “I understand only four of your team showed up.”

Aya snapped, “Weiß is only four men.”

An old female voice now chided, “Now why would you lie over something like that?”

Aya's eyes narrowed, it hadn't been that long since Arashi became a registered member of Weiß, so he took a gamble, “It's not a lie. There are only four members.”

Another old man's voice sighed as though depressed over having the wrong information or as if they'd gone out of their way to do something that would have no affect, “How deeply unfortunate. You see, this girl we have here must just be delusional…”

Arashi's voice yelled on the other end, “Damn it! I am a part of Weiß! I swear I'm going to kill you bastards! Let me go! Let me go now!”

Aya's eyes widened, “What have you done with her!” he demanded.

“Nothing of course.” Replied one of the men, “We just happen to have a soft spot for stray kittens.”

Aya growled into the phone, “You bring her back, this instant, or I'll-.”

“Do what?” Crawford interrupted, seemingly amused with the charade.

Aya snapped at him and the receiver, “I'll do whatever I have to do to make sure you pay for it.”

The woman sighed, “Well, it looks about time we should leave.”

One of the men agreed, “Oh indeed, we certainly mustn't dawdle around a place like this all day.”

The last spoke to Aya, “You may find it agreeable to call off the fight. Otherwise you dear black cat might find herself in a hot situation.” There was a click, and then the dial tone began.

Aya slammed down the phone; he motioned to Omi, “Bombay, get Siberian to help carry Balinese out of here.”

Ken was rubbing his back; he dashed over to Youji and picked up some of the larger man and Omi held the rest. Aya pointed his sword at Crawford, “Get out of my way. And if you try to hold me back I-.”

Crawford finished, “You'll run at me with your sword and slice the wall in two when I move. Yes, I know, we've been through it before. But I'm not going to hold you back, you have important business to attend.” He stepped to the side, allowing Weiß to run past him.

When all of Weiß had reached the surface, Aya yelled over his shoulder, “Get back to the Koneko as soon as you can. I can't wait for you, I think something really bad has happened.”

Ken yelled, “Wait Abyssinian!” Youji gave a pained moan so Ken stopped his attempt to go after the leader, “Jeeze. Okay Bombay, time to see how we get any Taxi driver or Bus driver here to allow this loaf of meat in.”

~*~

Crawford looked back at Schuldig, “Get up.”

Schuldig grumbled, whined in pain then remained still. Crawford repeated himself and Schuldig yelled, “Verdammen! It is in hurting! Die katchen feels me same now shares! No movementing. Pain feels in me.”

Nagi suppressed a smile, when you managed to get the German in enough pain, or angry enough, he could no longer manage to put together English words properly.

Crawford rubbed his temples, “Run that by me again?” Schuldig glared from under his mass of hair and instead sent the mental explanation.

Crawford grumbled and explained to Nagi, “He was in Balinese's mind when Farfarello stabbed the kitten, so he's feeling the pain of it.”

Farfarello smiled cruelly, “Have you ever heard of killing two birds with one stone?”

Brad ignored the comment, “It seems that Esset is on our side today. Nagi, get Schuldig to Schwarz's Esset estate. Farfarello, go get Chikaru from wherever that subway car stopped.”

Schuldig grimaced as Nagi helped him to his feet, “And what are you doing Bradley?”

Brad pushed up his glasses and corrected again, “It's Crawford. I'm waiting for another call from Esset.”

Schuldig growled, “You lie, what are you staying behind for?”

Crawford replied, “Of course I lie. Your powers may tell you that, but you still don't know what the truth is. Now go.”

Nagi bowed and helped the larger German up the stairs with the help of his mental powers. (This translates as: Schuldig is practically dragged face first up the stairs and pretty much through the gate instead of the opening of it.)

Farfarello watched Crawford for a moment before the American noticed the gold gaze on him, the Irish man said, “You noticed too then.”

Crawford nodded curtly and the white haired one disappeared, finding some creative and probably freakish way to reach the subway cart.

Brad was still for a moment, waiting till the announcer came on, “Well done Bradley. I was worried for a moment that I would have to intervene.”

Brad looked towards the ticket booth, where Malvagita was sitting under the pale yellow glow of the old lights. “You shouldn't have worried about it.”

Malvagita stood up and walked out of the booth to stand out in the open, “And why is that Bradley.”

Crawford continued to tolerate the name, “Because you weren't supposed to be here or know about this in the first place.”

Malvagita shrugged, “Well, that didn't work out. But now that you're alive, you can invite me over to dinner with Schwarz.”

Crawford balanced on the balls of his feet to pick up his tie, coat, and some of the contents spilled from it when he felt a foot at his back and fell forward. Malvagita laughed as he lost balance and fell to his hands and knees.

He picked his glasses up as he glared over his shoulder, “What are you doing?”

Malvagita casually motioned, “Just checking out my property.”

Brad gasped, “Excuse me?”

Malvagita smiled even wider at his expression, “With Takatori gone, Schwarz belongs to me now, considering we had joint ownership and now my competitor is out of the picture.”

Crawford picked up his belongings and dusted himself off, “Women.” He grumbled under his breath.

Malvagita raised the eyebrow not covered by a mass of dark hair, “What was that?”

Crawford put on his tie and folded the coat over his arm, “Nothing. We're meeting at the Schwarz Esset estate. I'm not sure you know how to get there.”

Malvagita shrugged, “If it isn't the apartment, then no.”

Crawford turned and started for the door, Malvagita hurried to keep up with the taller man's stride.

~*~

Chikaru still remained up against the door, glass still scattered around her. Her head slumped forward, and the tear stained note was clutched tightly in her hands, held at her chest. She was almost completely motionless, her shoulders sometimes shaking, and her chest heaving before she calmed again.

She jolted though, as the car she was in shook from an impact. Chikaru looked up to see two large dents in the metal ceiling. A long knife then stabbed through, she watched, holding her breath unconsciously.

There was a creak and whine from the metal before the gash suddenly grew, splitting a 3-foot crevice as a body fell in. Farfarello stared at her, on one foot and one knee.

Chikaru was silent for a moment, taking in a deeper breath before she cried out and jumped towards him, throwing her arms around his neck, “You're alive!”

Farfarello caught her and rocked back slightly, “We all are.”

Chikaru tried to keep herself from crying or laughing, or whatever she felt at that moment. She pulled herself closer by tightening her hug, burying her face in the space between his neck and shoulder.

Farfarello remained still for a moment before moving an arm around her back, and another to stroke her hair. He closed his eye and relaxed in the moment when he heard the sound of paper crinkling.

He took the note from her hands. Farfarello asked as he stared at his scribbled note, “Did you read it?”

Chikaru nodded, “Yes. And I'm so happy you're all alive.”

Farfarello continued, with a heavy breath, not sure of what her response would be, “I said if I'd had another chance, there was so much I'd tell you…” he paused then said, “Chikaru… I love you.” He closed his gold eye and waited for her response, happy at least that God had given him a second chance to tell her.

Then he opened his eye and realized, he hadn't said any of it, and his truths were still unreveiled.