Eurobeat and BL enjoyer*✧ ✰ ｡*

A few days have passed.

However, today, one redhead is not in the best mood.

Even staring down at the envelope sealed with the red wax stamp resting on the coffee table only irritates Iori while he chills on the couch.

After he picks it up, he only narrows his gaze and silently groans.

More so, the redhead concentrates his attention on this piece of paper that he doesn’t notice the older version of the Kusanagi approaching him.

Suddenly, Iori widens his eyes upon someone wrapping his arms around his neck.

As Kyo rests his head on his partner’s shoulder, he gracefully snatches the envelope from Yagami. “What do you get there?~”

When Iori turns his head, he notices the brunette holding it between his fingers and smirking at him like a cat.

A second later, Kyo comments while containing his excitement. “Hoo~ So, the time has come, eh? Ya gonna participate this year, right?”

After Iori turns his head and crosses his arms, he frowns. “As if I have any choice…”

After a brief pause, he closes his eyes and adds. “And, of all people, I have to join Kagura’s and Kyo’s team again.”

As the brunette studies the cranky Yagami, he exhales. “I see…”

But for now, the redhead lowers his shoulders and leans against the couch. “So, what’s the point of participating if I won’t be able to face Kyo and defeat him? As if I care who the hell is behind this year’s tournament, because it might just be another arrogant rich fool. Tsk, if that woman really wants to go that badly, she should have teamed up and investigated it with anyone else.”

When Kyo puts the envelope on the couch, he places his palm on Iori’s cheek and softens his gaze.

At first, the redhead feels the strong urge to push him away for allowing himself too much.

However, upon noticing Kyo’s serious face, Iori swallows the saliva and listens to him. “But you’ll see why it’s important for you to stay in this team.”

A second later, the Kusanagi heir cracks a bitter smile. “Just promise me one thing, okay? Don’t blame yourself for whatever may happen in the tournament or afterwards… I’m sure that even my other self will understand you because something bad will happen which will be not in your power to change.”

As Iori takes Kyo’s hand and lowers it, he defends himself without removing his eyes from him. “What a hell you’re talking about? Besides, I already warned that fool to behave himself. So, if Kyo has any brains left in his stupid head, he should be careful next time and won’t stick his nose into my business.”

“Like how you’ve done it the last time he was here?” The brunette chuckles.

For sure, it makes Yagami widen his eyes and immediately withdraw from his partner.

Meanwhile, the brunette only crosses his arms while hanging on the couch like a lazy feline and having a suggestive look on his face. “I heard everything from the study room.”

When he rests his head on his knuckles, he adds. “You shouldn’t have attempted extinguishing a fire by using gasoline. Just wait and you’ll see soon what you sow.”

For sure, that stupid Kusanagi’s face is asking for the trouble. The redhead ponders as he grinds his teeth and silently growls at him.

Soon, he gets close to Kyo and grabs him by his t-shirt. “I don’t care if you are a future version of him! I will put you down like anyone else who dare to interface between us. Kyo is mine, and I’ll do anything to remind him or anyone else of that.”

Suddenly, the Kusanagi heir’s eyes sparkle with a small flame, and he curves a delightful smile. “Good. But you better don’t hold back ‘cos who knows when will be your last time seeing him.”

Yagami only brings his face close to Kyo’s and lowers his gaze.

When he fixates his eyes on the brunette, he whispers in a deeper voice. “You won’t tell me what to do, Kyo. Even if I need to finish you both nice and slow.”

Suddenly, Kusanagi feels how his heart skips a beat and heat rushing to his cheeks. Yet he doesn’t give in to the redhead’s provocation.

When he sighs, Kyo places his palms on his partner’s cheeks and orders in a sweet voice. “Do it.”

After a brief pause, the brunette softens his gaze and continues while keeping his alluring eyes on Iori. “You’re doubting. Or do you prefer me to show you how it should be done?”

In the end, Kyo closes his eyes and gently presses his lips against his partner’s.

While Iori remains speechless, Kyo withdraws his face and grasps his hand. “Come. Let’s continue in the bedroom, shall we?”

Despite the Kusanagi’s seductive gaze, the redhead lowers his head and grinds his teeth.

A second later, Kyo gives a playful look and chuckles. “What is it with you? Don’t tell me that you-”

Suddenly, he widens his eyes upon receiving a harsh slap across his face.

At that moment, Kyo stares at Iori while rubbing his hurt cheek. “… Yagami?”

Soon, Iori stands up and clenches his palms into fists while keeping his hung head. “I’ve had enough of this!”

When he turns his back, he continues. “Just fucking look at yourself!… I had not the slightest idea that you’ll turn into a disgusting little manipulative whore that is fine fooling around with anyone. Don’t tell me that Kyo is like this too? Shit…”

As Kyo observes the trembling redhead, he softens his gaze.

After he closes his amber eyes and sighs, he approaches his partner. “Listen, I…”

However, the brunette widens his eyes and steps back by Yagami’s raised voice. “GET A HELL OUT!”

“No.” Kyo whispers. A second later, he embraces Iori from behind.

Despite his partner’s struggle and resistance, Kyo remains calm and refuses to let him go. “Not until I say something that will reach your thick skull, you idiot.”

After a brief pause, he explains to the irritated redhead as patiently as he can. “Like, hell, I would let anyone mess with me… Unless you count kissing anyone by using fists, then, yeah. And it doesn’t help that one over-protective dork always keeps an eye on me no matter what I do and scares the people.”

As Yagami’s tense body slowly relaxes, the brunette rests his head on his shoulder and nuzzles his neck. “Even, during one rainy night, I had no idea that you felt That Way about me, but I was more surprised by how long you may keep it to yourself. Besides, I knew that you would never harm me for your entertainment. So, I didn’t mind it and accepted your feelings...”

Meanwhile, Iori only places his palm on top of Kyo’s arms and comments in a bitter tone. “You only did this out of pity, didn’t you?”

“You idiot. You’re the very least person who would need that, and we both know it well. And if I was really against it, I would just have made you gather your teeth from the ground and left.” The brunette replies.

Soon, he closes his amber eyes and exhales. “Besides, I’ve noticed that it helps to calm your boiling blood or you. So, that’s the very least I can do for you.”

Meanwhile, the redhead grasps his partner’s arms tighter and narrows his gaze. “You shouldn’t be saying this to me, you fool.”

These words make Kyo widen his eyes, yet he listens further to Yagami. “There is someone else who waits for you and needs to hear that. Save that for later when you return to your timeline.”

In the end, the brunette nods and replies in his usual tone. “You’re right.”

‘And, thank you, Yagami. Tho, I have a very limited time in this world and may not survive before returning home.’ Kyo wants to add but keeps to himself.

As the days have passed, finally, another King of Fighters tournament has begun.

It is almost midnight. Suddenly, one redhead’s peaceful slumber is disturbed by the knock on his hotel room’s door.

At first, he ignores whoever it is. As soon as that noise is gone, he murmurs something under his nose before closing his eyes.

Unfortunately, a minute hasn’t passed, and the same noise haunts him again.

That’s it! Whoever it is, that person deserves to die. Or so Iori decides as he turns on the lights and starts looking to put something on.

When he puts the bathrobe on, he heads toward the door without hiding his murderous intentions.

After unlocking the door, he is genially surprised to see one certain Kusanagi, who wears only a tank top and shorts.

Despite the brunette giving him a demanding look, he narrows his gaze and addresses him in an irritated voice. “What do you want?”

Instead of saying anything, Kyo lowers his head. After he makes his way inside, he locks the door behind him.

“The hell is your problem? If you don’t like something, then say it or leave.” Iori asks and steps back each time when the brunette gets close to him.

Lastly, upon Yagami reaching the bed and nearly tripping over, Kyo roughly grabs his partner by the bathrobe and brings his face close to him. “You.”

For sure, such arrogant behavior makes Iori frown and grind his teeth.

A second later, Kyo lowers his head and murmurs. “I hate it…”

“I hate it how someone wraps you around their finger and you can’t see it! Is he really better than me? Hey, is this why you keep avoiding me?” he adds in an almost gloomy tone while his palms tremble.

Of course, Yagami is confused by his partner’s sudden lashing out at him, but he listens to him further. “Why didn’t you tell me this in the first place, then? Why do you have to do this to me? I won’t forgive you for this, you fool!”

Suddenly, Kyo widens his amber eyes and releases his bathrobe as Iori presses his palms against his cheeks and lifts his head.

For now, the redhead only silently stares at him. After exhaling, he comments. “You are truly an idiot… For the love of the-, you can’t go for a second without making it everything about yourself, can you?”

After closing his eyes and exhaling, he adds. “Listen, I’ll remind you as much as you need - if I wanted, and you were nothing more than a bother, I would have already finished you since the day we met or just simply ignored you. However, ever since the future you showed up, I tried to figure out how to get rid of him, even if I needed to rely on Kagura’s help. So, if she is right, then, the other you should be gone after the tournament.”

“You’re lying.” Kyo immediately backfires.

After he turns his head away from him, he complains. “You prefer him over me ‘cos why else you would let him live with you? Perhaps you’ve probably already done That with him. Why else he is here?”

These words infuriate Iori, and he grips Kyo’s arms while trying to remain as patient as possible. “Say it again, Kyo. Just fucking say that in front of my face.”

When his eyes meet these strict ones, Kusanagi understands he is screwed and nervously swallows the saliva. “Yagami, I…”

After studying his partner, Yagami lowers his shoulders and facepalms. “Is this what you’ve been thinking all this time? You stupid, jealous fool…”

When he rests one hand on his partner’s shoulder and with the other holding his chin, he assures him. “How many times do I need to remind you I’m not interested in anyone else? Hell, even if that might be a superior version of you, I wouldn’t care less. It won’t be you.”

In the end, the same hand that rests on Kyo’s shoulder slides down his back and brings him closer.

At that moment, the brunette feels the heat rushing to his cheek while being dazed.

“I warned you before, but you still refuse to listen to me. So, this time, I won’t let you go, Kyo.” Yagami addresses him in a deeper voice before pulling him into a kiss.

At first, Kyo briefly widens his eyes when his partner’s tongue tries to get inside.

Yet, he doesn’t hesitate and invites Yagami while blissfully closing his eyes and letting out lovely sighs in between.

Lastly, he throws his arms over Iori’s shoulders and continues the passionate kiss while his partner’s hand behind his back slides under his tank top and strokes it.

Even if Kyo understands that after this, there will be no point in returning to their previous relationship. All he cares about now is that no one will take away someone who belongs only to him.

Besides, Yagami seems to be holding back for too long and may eat him tonight.

Yet, it’s nothing that Kyo minds. Contrary, he is secretly happy to have Iori for himself until the morning.

After the Resistance soldiers reach the end of the end of the Isolation Unit, they get surrounded by the men in black body armor and stainless steel masks wielding massive laser guns and pointing at them.

When the brunette raises her hands, she addresses these troops. “You can lower your guns. I’m on your side.”

She points with her chin at Iori without removing her eyes from the armed soldiers. “All I’m here for is to bring this man to my dad.”

While the troops focus on their targets, Kyoko lowers her hands and adds. “He works here. Does the name Professor Iriyu Kurama says anything to you? So, you have no reason to treat us like this.”

For now, the redhead addresses his partner while he lowers his blade. “You’re wasting your breath… Cover my back.”

Lastly, without hesitation, Iori charges at the enemy.

As the countless bullets fly at Yagami, he reflects on each one by spinning his trustworthy weapon and sending it back to his opponents.

When he gets close enough, he stabs and slashes in half the nearest man.

Meanwhile, Kyoko picks up the handheld gun and blasts whoever aims at them.

Soon enough, the fierce battle is over. After wiping the blood from his face with his uniform sleeve, Iori approaches his battle partner.

However, when he reaches the metal door and is about to slash it, Kyoko’s voice stops him. “Wait! Dad’s office is here. So, we don’t need to go any further.”

“I don’t care about him. We’ll get your original first. Then, that fool.” The redhead backfires without looking back.

After Yagami unleashes a couple of stronger attacks to destroy the door, he briefly orders. “Follow me. Or do you want to wait here until more of these guys show up?”

At this point, the brunette has no choice but to follow the stubborn soldier. “It can’t be helped that I need to protect you until we find Dad.”

Unfortunately, another wave of the NESTS troops already greets them.

Meanwhile, Iori only cracks a smile and mockingly comments. “Oh~ Looks like you want to go to hell that badly. Fine. I’ll send you there.”

Some time has passed. After rushing through the endless corridors and defeating countless enemies, they reached the deeper level of NESTS.

Judging from the endless rows of half-empty rooms enclosed by thick glass doors, this place resembles a prison where unfortunate souls await their death sentences.

After wandering for a long time, Iori freezes in the same spot near one room and widens his eyes.

Apparently, one familiar-looking person catches his eye.

Even the sense of time and place disappears for Iori, and all he can do is stare in disbelief at this male as if he saw a living ghost.

Heck, thousands of emotions that the redhead could not understand, nor did he know he had rushed to him.

Apparently, the Kusanagi sits on the bed, leaning against the corner, staring into nothingness while his arms are restrained with chains.

However, the redhead doesn’t realize that anyone sitting behind the glass door cannot see what is going on outside.

Right now, he can only speak up in a quiet, shaky voice and press his palm on the glass door. “... Kyo.”

Lastly, the brunette faces the door.

When their eyes meet, Yagami’s heart skips a beat.

Despite starting with his empty and tired eyes, Kyo doesn’t react to the person behind the door. A few seconds later, he turns his head away and lowers it, sinking deeper into the darkness.

For sure, it makes Iori shakily clench his palms into fists and lower his head while grinding his teeth.

However, he isn’t heartbroken and frustrated because of traveling across the universe just to get ignored by Kyo.

No. Iori is not certain whether he should be mad at himself or whoever has broken Kyo to such a degree that he cannot recognize his long-time mission partner as turning him into nothing but a shell of his former self.

Suddenly, Iori hits the door as hard as he can and continues doing so while calling the Kusanagi’s name.

At the moment, even Kyoko steps back while observing this from a distance.

Meanwhile, the imprisoned brunette gets alerted and looks in the direction of the banging.

Even if he cannot see behind the white door, he immediately recognizes to whom belongs that familiar voice that struck like thunder from the clear sky.

Despite being confused about whether it is just a hallucination, Kyo carefully stands up while facing the door. “Ya… Yagami?”

A second later, the banging ceases, and the redhead addresses him. “Stay where you are! I’m coming for you!”

Thus, with the sound of scratching the surface, the saber blade penetrates the door and cuts it into pieces.

After Iori enters the cell, he calls the Kusanagi’s name. “Kyo!”

As the brunette barely comprehends the view in front of him, he asks in an unsure tone. “Yagami… What. What are you doing here?”

“It’s you! It’s really you,” Iori says while containing his emotions.

When he approaches Kyo, he instinctively wraps his arms around him, refusing to let him go.

For sure, such a gesture surprises the Kusanagi. After all, it’s the first time when his partner so openly shows any affection.

But for now, while Yagami’s trembling body is pressed against his, he can feel how his hug tightens.

In the end, Iori closes his eyes and whispers. “You’re… you’re alive. Thank the fucking goodness, I’ve finally found you.”

When Kyo notices another person standing behind the redhead curiously observing them, he gives a questioning look.

As Kyoko gets close to this couple, she speaks up in an unsure voice. “Nii-sama? Er, I mean… So, you’re the original?”

Finally, when Iori releases the Kusanagi from the hug, he holds his shoulders and explains in a calm tone. “We need to get out of here.”

However, he suspiciously narrows his gaze upon noticing a strange black collar around Kyo’s neck. “What a hell is this?”

Just before he touches it, a strict voice behind them interrupts them. “Stay away from him!”

Apparently, it’s a fluffy silver-haired scientist wearing glasses standing in the gap of the former door, pointing a gun at Yagami’s head and keeping his other hand in the pocket.

After Kurama gets everyone’s attention, he adds while keeping his poker face. “I warn you - one wrong move and I’ll blast a brute like you.”

Yet, Iori only growls at the impostor and shields Kyo with one arm.

Meanwhile, Kyoko’s face shines with excitement as she approaches the scientist. “Dad, you’re okay!”

However, as the tip of the gun moves towards her, Kurama replies. “Back off, you filthy copy.”

After she steps back, she lowers her head to the side. “Dad? Is everything alright?”

When the female replica places her hand on her chest, she adds. “Hey, Dad, look. The original is here. And that man over there - he helped me to save Nii-sama. So, he is in good hands now, and we’ll bring him to you when he feels better.”

The silver-haired male is unaffected by these words. After he points back the gun at the redhead, he orders. “Let him go and I may pretend that I never met you.”

“Fuck off! Kyo is mine!” Iori growls and points his trustworthy weapon at him.

But for now, Kurama only chuckles and fixes his glasses. “I see… It seems that peaceful negotiation with war criminals has failed. But I didn’t expect more from someone who only understands violence. Unfortunately for you, I won’t allow a bloody murderer like you to harm him any further.”

Meanwhile, Kyo is startled when the professor looks towards him with that warm, innocent smile and a comforting voice that sends cold shivers down his skin. “It’s alright, Kusanagi-kun. Let me finish these barbarians and I’ll take you to a safer place.”

Just before he pulls the trigger, Kyoko closes her eyes and tackles him, making him miss the shot.

While Kurama struggles under the brunette sitting on top of his back, he desperately tries to reach the dropped gun. “What? What do you think you’re doing? Get off me now!”

Unfortunately for him, Kyoko is strong enough to lock his arms.

But for now, she softens her gaze. “I’m sorry, dad. I can’t let you do this. That man may have killed countless of my brothers. However, he proved to me he cares a lot about original and he spared Nii-sama’s life. Dad, he even gave me a name before you did.”

“I knew from the very beginning that you are a defective failure who can’t follow simple orders. But I’m amazed how a weakling like you shares the same genes as Kusanagi-kun. If only the prototype would have developed faster than you, I would have saved my time and energy, and used him to trick that woman and NESTS instead of giving a life to such a worthless creature like you,” Kurama confesses.

After Kyoko releases his arms, she responds weakly while tears run down her face, trying to hold back sobs. “No. Dad, please tell me you’re lying…”

For sure, hearing these words alone boiled Iori’s blood with pure rage and hatred for this man.

At that moment, Kyo lowers his gaze upon such a revelation while the redhead refuses to listen to it any further and turns off his saber blade and attaches to his belt.

When Iori lowers his head, he addresses Kyo without looking back in as a chill voice as possible. “Stay still and do not interfere. It’s something personal between me and him.”

After he approaches the dumbfounded and shaky Kyoko and her oh-so-adored father, he pushes her away. When he squats, he roughly grabs Kurama by his shirt and makes him stand up.

In the end, Yagami narrows his gaze and looks down at the professor with pure disgust and hatred. “So, you’re the one who took Kyo away from me and made him suffer …You fucking bastard!”

Thus, Iori launches a punch into Kurama’s face.

Despite that, Kurama remains silent and gives a smug look while the blood runs from his nose and the corners of his lips.

As soon as Yagami tosses down the silver-haired male, he approaches Kyo. “We’re leaving.”

Meanwhile, the brunette objects while sitting on her knees and making big eyes. “But what about dad? We can’t just leave him like this, can we?”

“You’ve seen just now how much he cares about you. Besides, your brother is waiting for you.” Iori explains.

For now, the brunette lowers her gaze and follows the command. “Yes.”

When he gets close to Kusanagi, he takes his hand. “The same goes for you. Let’s go.”

However, just before Kyo opens his mouth to protest, Yagami interrupts him. “You can say whatever you want when we reach the base, you fool!”

Lastly, the redhead starts running and grabs Kyoko’s arm, making sure they will escape NESTS together.

Some time has passed.

After finally reaching their spaceship and entering it, Iori hears a short beeping noise from his sound transmission device and answers it. “What do you want?”

“This is the Headquarters. What are you up to this time, Yagami-san? And where in the world did you took Kyoko-san? Pl… please return to the Headquarters immediately!” The young female operator’s voice burst through speakers.

“Why do you have to be so annoying? Your precious princess is here with me if you care that much about her. Besides, we’re not coming back alone.” Iori explains in a slightly irritated tone.

“What are you talking about? Care to explain?” The operator asks.

Instead of wasting his time, the redhead replies before turning off the transmission device. “When we return, you all will see. Over.”

Meanwhile, Kyoko switches to the auto-pilot mode and turns her head to check on the other two Resistance soldiers in the back. “What was that, Yagami?”

“It seems that someone only now noticed that you’re missing and worries about you.” The redhead answers.

“I knew that I should have warned Kagura-san and Nii-sama before I left…” the brunette murmurs.

Several minutes have passed. While the auto-pilot mode is still on, Kyoko takes a longer nap before they reach the Headquarters.

In the meantime, Kyo stares through the window and sighs. “You should have left me. After all, not only I’ll cause trouble for you, but also I’ve killed him.”

Yet, Yagami leans closer and gives a questioning look.

Even if the words stuck in Kusanagi’s throat and he avoids facing Iori, he continues. “It was my fault that Shingo died twice. I’ve let him suffer in that abandoned spaceship, and now his dead body lies somewhere in NESTS labs. More importantly, NESTS and the Empire are probably tracking us and soon will discover our base.”

Suddenly, he widens his eyes when a couple of palms rest on his cheeks, making him face the redhead.

At that moment, the brunette silently stares at Iori, who narrows his gaze and studies him.

A second later, Yagami closes his eyes and exhales. After he lowers his hands, he replies. “Is this what concerns you? Then you definitely need to see something by yourself once we return.”

After a brief pause, he adds. “If you still blame yourself for what happened, show me your wrists.”

Of course, the brunette doesn’t question such a decision.

After Kyo raises his restrained hands, he looks away and impatiently waits for his partner’s next turn.

However, he gets alerted by the sound of a saber blade cutting and the sensation of his wrists being so light-weighted.

After Kyo checks his hands, he lifts his amber eyes, which question Yagami’s actions.

“I should have done this earlier.” Iori comments.

But for now, Kyo nervously swallows the saliva when their eyes meet.

Meanwhile, the redhead places his fingers under the brunette’s collar. “There should be a button somewhere around here to remove this thing, right?”

Thus, with the clicking noise, the black collar opens and releases the Kusanagi’s neck.

Unfortunately, it doesn’t fall on the ground and rests on the nape.

“The hell? Why is it still there?” Iori speaks up in an indignant tone while reaching out for it.

When he tries to pulls it, he withdraws his hand upon the Kusanagi’s sudden gasp.

A few moments later, the brunette only lowers his gaze and explains in a gloomy tone. “You won’t remove it that easily. It’s deep down inside me.”

‘These bastards… What they have done to him?’ Yagami thinks to himself while grinding his teeth.

A second later, he addresses Kyo in a serious voice. “This may sound like a stupid thing to say, but I need you to lie down on your stomach and on my lap.”

To his surprise, Kusanagi doesn’t protest and does what he says.

When Iori brings his hand in front of his partner’s mouth, he orders him. “You may want to bite into it. Here.”

For sure, such a gesture bewilders Kyo, making him hesitate.

“It may hurt you. That’s why I don’t want you to harm yourself.” The redhead persists.

After the brunette opens his mouth, he gently bites into Yagami’s hand.

When Iori grasps with his fingers around the exposed wire under the collar, he warns. “I’m going to pull it out now. Nod me if you’re ready.”

Lastly, Kusanagi lowers his gaze and nods.

Suddenly, Kyo widens his eyes and loudly gasps.

While his partner’s teeth sink into his flesh, Iori endures the pain and deeply breathes.

Fortunately, he pulls out the entire metal thread out of Kusanagi’s body.

However, when Kyo stops breathing and loosens his bite, Yagami slightly panics. “Kyo!”

After immediately removing one glove, Iori presses it against the brunette’s nape and checks his pulse on his sleep artery.

When he senses a weak pulse twitching against his fingers, he lowers his shoulders and exhales.

As Yagami brushes the hair from Kyo’s face, he whispers. “Thank goodness… He only passed out.”

A few minutes have passed. After Iori puts a medical plaster on disinfected Kyo’s nape, he lays him down on the entire back seat and rests the brunette’s head on his lap.

As he takes off his uniform jacket and covers himself, he gazes upon the peacefully sleeping Kusanagi, still in disbelief that Kyo is here with him.

More importantly, even staying like this for a while makes Iori happy secretly. After all, Kyo is safe by his side and does not need to suffer anymore.

Meanwhile, in one room of the Isolation Unit. One certain Kusanagi is sitting in bed, and while he leans against the wall, he turns his head away from his cell door and stares at a blank wall.

It has been a couple of weeks since he was imprisoned by NESTS, and a few days since he learned about his mission partner’s tragic fate. However, he is slowly becoming accustomed to this place and doesn’t mind spending the rest of his life here.

At least, this is a suitable punishment for a criminal like him who failed the mission, and his mistake cost him Shingo’s life.

Therefore, perhaps he is kept alive to repent of his sins. Or so the brunette thinks as he closes his eyes and exhales as he sinks into a gloomier mood.

At this point, he is too exhausted to end his miserable life and has given up the hope of leaving this place. Even if he attempted to escape, he would have nowhere to stay. One worry is adopting a new identity, while another is the potential discovery of his involvement in the rebel movement.

Besides, Kyo does not wish anyone from the Resistance Force to see him deeply fall from his grace, especially Yagami. After all, his long-time partner will be disappointed if he discovers how easily he was defeated and marked by the enemy while submitting to these shameful acts.

“Whatever you are planning to do, please do not seek for me or come anywhere close. I don’t think that I could endure grieving another loss, Yagami. So, please forget me for your own sake. And do not try anything reckless, you fool…” The brunette silently prays while just imagining the redhead clenches his heart.

But for now, the sound of the automatic door opening startles him.

“How are you doing today, Kusanagi-kun?” The silver-haired scientist with glasses asks.

When he approaches Kyo, he notices that his test subject hasn’t touched his food or water ratio for two days. As he softens his gaze, he sits next to the Kusanagi.

After he wraps his arm around the brunette’s shoulder, who shows no reaction, he brings him closer. “I understand you are still not over your friend’s death. However, you cannot neglect yourself.”

“Not because you’ll grow weak and die, but I might get into deep trouble, and it would cost me my job, and we do not want that, do we?” Or so Professor Kurama keeps in his mind.

“Unfortunately, I’m afraid that this is the last day of your stay here. Starting today, you will be transferred to the research facility.” He adds in a chill tone.

When he presses Kyo against his chest, he ruffles his hair. “But you do not need to worry. You will be under doctor Makishima’s care. As long as you follow hers or the researchers’ instructions, you should be fine.”

At the moment, the professor’s words have no weight or meaning to him. It is just sweet nothing before he is sent to the deeper level of his own Avici.

After Kurama releases the brunette from the soft embrace, he kneels in front of him. As he holds his shoulder and stares into these dull amber eyes, he gives him a comforting smile. “The doctor is already waiting for us. So, shall we go?”

When he helps Kyo to stand up, he walks him through the door.

While on their way, the brunette hung his head.

Meanwhile, the blonde doctor fixes her glasses while keeping her hand in the coat’s pocket.

As this couple stands in front of her, she briefly cracks a smile. “It’s been a while, Kusanagi. How was your stay here?”

Yet, she receives no response from the silent brunette. “Either way, I assume that the professor Kurama informed you about your further plans.”

But for now, Makishima addresses the silver-haired male. “So, from now, we’ll take him over, professor.”

“You heard her, Kusanagi-kun? So, why don’t go with her?” Kurama speaks up.

After he turns his back to the blonde, he wraps his arm around Kyo. As he grins like a snake, he whispers into his ear. “Just wait for me, and will come to rescue you, Kusanagi-kun.”

For sure, it makes Kyo widen his eyes and freeze in the same spot as if being in the giant snake’s grasp, which flickers its split tongue. However, when he feels how gently the professor’s hand pushes him forward, he returns to this world.

In the end, as he walks with Makishima, he turns his head and notices that the silver-haired male closes his eyes and innocently smiles and waves while keeping his other arm behind his back.

A couple of days pass. The fluffy silver-haired male twice looks around his shoulder, making sure that no one follows him into his room.

Fortunately, none of the blonde doctor’s underlings are anywhere around.

After the brunette arrived in his new cell, he accidentally chirped too much for the doctor about the unauthorized test samples that Kurama took.

Even if the silver-haired male wasn’t aware of what Kyo had told, he was certain - Makishima wasn’t too happy about it.

Therefore, all the Kusanagi’s clones, which were not fully developed along the prototype and all documentation, were confiscated, and Kurama’s research ceased.

Even a few scientists who assisted him turned their backs on him and witnessed against him.

After Doctor Makishima reported the current situation to NESTS, instead of being shot, Professor Kurama’s every movement was monitored while working in the isolation unit.

However, his old friend still passed him a pair of communication devices, which signals cannot be tracked even by the NESTS or the Empire.

Who also knew that not murdering that defective, undocumented clone and keeping her locked in the closet during the investigation could be his key to retrieving Kyo and escaping from this place?

More importantly, showing decent behavior towards that replica brought a fine harvest. After all, that clone was blindly trustful and obedient, and she could do anything without questioning if Kurama just asked.

But for now, as the silver-haired male enters inside, the automatic door closes behind him.

After he reaches his bed and sits on it, he turns on the transmission device. Unfortunately, when he tries to dial one certain brunette, the blue holographic screen turns red, showing an error message.

At the moment, Kurama bites his nails and hisses. “Strange… She always picks it up. Don’t tell me she was killed. I knew I shouldn’t have expected much from a mere copy. How unfortunate...”

As he lowers his head and grids his teeth, he grasps the transmission device and tosses it on the ground.

When he lowers his head, he cracks a smile. “Well, even if my last hope has died, I will still find a way to how to get you out of there. So, wait for me for a bit longer, Kusanagi-kun.”

Back to the Resistance Force Headquarters. As soon as one couple of soldiers returns, Shingo hands over the slumbering male clone of the Kusanagi to the group of medics and leaves him under their care.

Meanwhile, the restrained brunette shrugs and steps back after seeing so many people in white coats in one place.

What if they are working together with the same person who imprisoned her dad and going to bring her back to the same white room and run tests on her? More so, this time nobody will ruffle her hair afterwards and praise her for enduring another experiment.

“Where are you taking Nii-sama and what are you going to do with him?” The female replica indignantly asks one of the medical staff while staying close to Iori and refusing to leave his side.

“We’re taking him to the medical unit, ma’am. However, we would also ask you to go with us.” One medic briefly explains.

“I’m not going anywhere.” The brunette backfires. After a brief pause, she continues, pointing in the redhead’s direction. “Unless he is coming together. How else I can be sure that you won’t trick me?”

For sure, such an attitude slowly gets on Iori’s nerves, and he rolls his eyes.

Yet, he tries to remain calm and addresses the remaining personnel. “Why are you still here? Don’t you have a job to do? I’ll take that woman to the medical unit even if I need to drag her, if that concerns you.”

And thus, after the medic nods, he rushes towards his team.

Lastly, he grabs this replica by her arm and prompts her to go.

Meanwhile, the brunette frowns and objects. “Oi, what do you think you’re doing?”

However, Iori only murmurs. “Why do you have to be so annoying?”

The female replica only raises her eyebrow. “Eh? Did you say anything? If you have anything to say, say it clearly, and not mumble like an old grumpy man.”

“Of all clones, why does this one have to have such an attitude?” Yagami wonders while hoping that the sooner he brings this Kusanagi’s look-alike, the sooner he can have peace of mind.

More so, no matter how he doesn’t want to admit it, he has to get along with this replica, because she might guide him where Kyo is.

Some time passes. On the way to the Medical Unit, the brunette realizes she is the center of everyone’s attention.

At first, she does her best to keep her pride and confidence despite being a prisoner in unknown territory.

Unfortunately, it becomes a difficult task when she can feel the male soldiers fixating their eyes on her with such morbid curiosity. For now, she gives a questioning look at Yagami. “Hey, why are they staring at me like that? Do I look that weird?”

Meanwhile, Iori only grids his teeth and gives a deadly glare to anyone who looks in their direction.

At the moment, he can swear that even one wrong gesture or word will be enough to send anyone flying across the hallway.

He's not interested in a fake version of Kyo or the attention of these men they are giving her, but he's just tired and frustrated. Or so Iori convinces himself.

But for now, he exhales. “Just don’t pay too much attention to it.”

“If you say so. However, they are not dad’s co-workers. So, why they are so fixated on me and can’t mind their own business? It’s not that they need to test or confirm something for the research.” The brunette honestly replies.

Instead of making unnecessary comments, Iori holds back.

After reaching their destination place the automated door opens, and both enter inside.

As Yagami makes his way through rushing medical personnel, he notices the staff gathered around one healing capsule.

“Hey, Kagura. I brought that pesky clone.” The redhead addresses the certain doctor.

When the ebony-haired woman turns back, she replies. “Welcome back.”

As she takes a better look at the tied-up Kyo’s look-alike standing next to him, she briefly gets confused. Despite that, she comments. “You do almost resemble Kusanagi as if you were his sibling…”

Yet, the brunette demands the answers. “I dunno who is Kusanagi, but all I know is that Nii-sama is here. So, where is he, and what have you done to him?”

“You can rest assured. Your brother is fine, and he just needs plenty of rest.” Chizuru reassures her and lets her get closer to the capsule, where the prototype peacefully slumbers.

“Nii-sama…” the female clone whispers in a nearly pitiful voice.

A second later, the dark-haired woman adds in a serious tone. “But for now, I would ask you to cooperate with us. At first, I would need to need to examine you properly.”

Lastly, she addresses Iori. “You can leave now… And thank you for what have you done.”

“Whatever… Just be careful and don’t be tricked by her. She might look weak and innocent, but she is as strong as Kyo.” The redhead replies as he turns back and raises his palm. Finally, he walks away while keeping his hands in his pants pockets.

Meanwhile, the female replica tries to over-talk Kagura. “Do I really I have to do this?”

“I’m afraid that this is the only way how can I can check if you are injured. However, later on, you can change into clean pajama.” The dark-haired doctor patiently replies.

“That is the very first thing that dad gave me. So, there is no way I’ll let you discard it!” The brunette objects while pointing out at her body suit.

“But what if I promise you I will keep it for you? And I’m sure that your father would be relieved knowing that you are alright or not sick.” Chizuru continues negotiating with the brunette.

At first, the female replica doubts her intentions, yet she lowers her guard temporally. “Alright. I trust you for now, I guess. Besides, you wear the same coat as my dad. So, you can’t be a bad person, right?”

In the end, Chizuru closes her eyes and ruffles the clone’s hair as a small sign of gratitude.

Several hours pass. It is the middle of the night, and everyone is already asleep in the bunkers.

Unfortunately, one redhead’s peaceful rest is disturbed by the sensation of someone sleeping next to him.

Suddenly, he widens his eyes and turns to check whether he is still dreaming.

Not only does he realize he is not alone, but he also has a weird feeling about who might be that fearless fool who asks for their death wish.

No matter how much he is tempted to kick out the sleeping brunette, he understands it will awaken everyone, and he’ll get into trouble.

For now, Iori nuzzles the female clone while whispering. “Hey, enough sleeping. Wake up.”

Yet, the brunette only frowns and replies in a sleepy voice. “What is your problem? If you can’t sleep, at least let the others, you know.”

That woman wants to test his patience limits, doesn’t she? Iori thinks to himself while facepalming.

Instead, he shortly instructs. “Get up. We’re leaving.”

“Where? I’m fine staying here.” The Kusanagi’s look-alike objects. When she climbs on top of Iori, she rests her arms on his chest and smiles like a feline. “And I could use you as a pillow.”

It might be pointless arguing with this pesky troublemaker any further. Therefore, he has to figure out how to make this creature leave without causing problems.

“How did you get there? And what do you want from me?” The redhead asks.

The brunette lowers her gaze. “I didn’t want to sleep alone, and dad didn’t mind it either when I was still in the lab because he told that it would be warmer. So, I don’t get why are you complaining?”

After a brief pause, she confesses. “Even if I had no idea that you were staying here, I just simply followed my intuition.’’

When she places a palm on her chest, she continues. “As if, deep inside me, there was a part of me telling me I should trust you and seek you despite you being such an idiot. Heck, just listening to that strong feeling, I also guessed the password of this room. So, now I wonder what kind of relationship you had with Nii-sama…”

After listening to these words, Yagami explains. “I have nothing to do with that cheap copy.”

Surely, it confuses this clone. “But dad shown me a photo of Nii-sama, and asked me to bring him. He even entrusted this task to me because he told me I was the only one who could do it.”

“Then your father tricked you. You two are nothing more dull replicas of Kyo.” Iori briefly replies.

The brunette only gets bewildered by this man’s words and speaks up. “You’re… you’re lying. Dad is a very kind person and why else he would have told me that everyone else who looked like Nii-sama were fakes and I shouldn’t feel bad for them? Or that a bad people, who are stole his hard work, made them?”

“If your father truly cared about you, why hasn't he reached out? You are just a tool for him or for whoever these bastards to kidnapped Kyo and made you. For fuck's sake, even after you reunited with your brother, you should have noticed any differences between that photo or him in person.” The redhead backfires.

The female clone hangs her head and remains silent for a while.

After receiving no answers, Iori asks while keeping his poker face. “What’s wrong? Does the truth hurt you?”

She only shakes her head in disbelief. “I… I don’t understand. Why dad wanted me to bring Nii-sama to him, if he isn’t Original? It makes no sense.”

“This is what I want to know as well, and you will help me find Kyo and rescue him.” The redhead replies in a calm tone.

Meanwhile, this replica remarks. “You seem to adore and care about my original a lot. Now, I kinda get it why that one part of me cannot help but feel attracted towards you. Maybe you are not that bad person if he feels that way.”

As the brunette genially smiles, she adds. “After all, dad mentioned to me once that I share not only Original’s skills but also his emotions and at some point his memories.”

Yet, when she notices the dumbfounded redhead, she raises her eyebrow. “Hey, what’s wrong you with you? Did I say anything wrong? Or didn’t you know this?”

After Iori turns his head and closes his eyes, he tries to remain calm. “And you are poking your nose into the others’ business like him.”

When he gets up, he addresses this replica. “Either way, let’s get you back to your room.”

Despite not comprehending Yagami's reaction earlier, the brunette still does what he asks.

It’s a late, peaceful evening, and nothing stands out. Surprisingly, even the older Kusanagi twin hasn’t tried to invade his rival’s privacy during today’s morning and now sleeps on the couch.

At least tonight will be peaceful, with no incidents caused by one big troublemaker. Or so the redhead naively believes before falling asleep.

Some time passes by, and it’s almost midnight. Unfortunately, Iori’s peaceful slumber is disturbed, and he is awakened by the weird noises behind his back and the feeling that he is not alone in bed.

Although, he instantly figures out who is the culprit and it irritates him. Despite that, he is too tired to remind this pesky Kusanagi of his place. So, for now, while he rolls to another side, he murmurs ‘‘You little-…’’.

However, his sleepiness is gone when he notices the brunette curled into a ball and trembling like a leaf while facing him. More so, Kyo keeps whimpering while tightly hugging himself and trying to say something. From his facial expression alone, Iori can tell that his rival suffers in pain.

Perhaps he caught a cold somewhere. After all, who knows where this stupid Kusanagi was wandering? Or so Yagami wonders as he observes how Kyo struggles in his sleep.

Just as the redhead is about to place his palm on the brunette’s forehead, he widens his eyes and catches the Kusanagi’s wrist.

Yet, Kyo sounds like begging ‘‘No!… Let me go!… I don’t want this… leave me alone…’’.

As soon as Iori releases the brunette’s wrist, he is surprised how Kyo brings it close to him while pitifully whining ‘‘You freaks… what have I ever done wrong to you?…’’.

More so, his sleep talk slowly changes into something that makes Yagami feel bad for his rival.

It’s already unusual to see how such a lively and energetic brat, who is never upset, becomes so vulnerable in front of his supposed-to-be deadliest enemy, even if he is unaware of what he does. No matter how Iori doesn’t want to admit it - it’s hard to watch Kyo crying, who has to deal with an invisible enemy.

One thing is their families’ never-ending conflict and hatred for each other. That’s these stubborn fools’ problem. Not that much for Iori to care.

Then, again, Yagami’s cursed blood is one of these issues that it’s not Kusanagis’ goddamn concern. Nor it’s something that Kyo should stick his nose into.

For sure, the redhead is irritated at how this certain Kusanagi heir treats it as his own problem and worries more than Yagami himself. More importantly, that reckless idiot is ready to drop everything and come to the rescue because the redhead’s blood may act up.

Kyo wastes too much time worrying about unimportant details like this when the only thing that should matter to him is preparing to face Iori as an equal and die by his hand.

After all, their fight has nothing to do with an endless conflict between two clans or a stupid snake cursing Yagami’s bloodline. It’s a personal matter between him and Kyo. Therefore, he won’t allow anyone to interface between them - be it a mere human or a powerful god. Or so the redhead believes.

But for now, Iori doesn’t care if he acts as foolish and reckless as his oh-so-supposedly hated Kusanagi.

After closing his eyes and exhaling, Yagami wraps his arms around his rival and brings him closer to him.

At first, Kyo struggles and does anything in his power to resist while beginning to release him. Soon, the brunette calms down, and he sleeps tightly in Yagami’s embrace.

It’s an exception this time because Kyo is having a nightmare. Therefore, there is nothing wrong with wanting to help Kyo calm down and rest well before tomorrow. Or so Iori thinks about his own unexplained behavior.

Even when he assumes that the brunette is not bothered by his enemies, he hears Kyo sleep-talking again ‘‘No… please, no… I beg you, return to me… Yagami…’’.

For sure, hearing his own name in his rival’s dreams shocks Yagami.

What a hell happened to Kyo, and how Iori is involved in this? More importantly, what happened between them in the not-so-distant future? Or so the redhead wonders while observing the sleeping Kusanagi heir.

Instead of waking up the brunette and beating answers out of him, Yagami allows himself to act irrationally again.

After Iori places his palm on the brunette’s forehead, he gently strokes Kyo’s hair.

At least this time, he doesn’t resist. Instead, Kusanagi murmurs Yagami’s name in a soft voice.

In the end, Iori only silently addresses his rival ‘‘You stupid idiot… Do not get used to it. It’s only for this time.’’.

But for now, the redhead decides it’s okay for Kyo to stay here tonight. As long as he doesn’t cause any problems or move too much during his sleep, it’s fine.

However, the main challenge for Yagami now is to wake up before the brunette does. After all, the last thing he needs is to feel awkward by explaining that he did nothing to Kyo while he was asleep. Finally, the redhead’s eyelids become heavy, and after he closes his eyes, he returns to his slumber.

It is the beginning of a new day. Even so, Kyo can sense the tension as he enters the living room, where one redhead waits for him.

Perhaps Yagami is going to scold him for sleeping in the bedroom again. On the other hand, if he wanted to do this, he would have done this as soon as he spotted Kyo sleeping on the bed.

So, what can be that important that Yagami wants to talk about? Or so the brunette tries to figure out as he almost reaches his destination place.

After reaching the living room, he spots the redhead sitting on the couch and studying some papers. More so, Yagami is too busy that he doesn’t notice his presence.

Normally, the brunette would use this as a perfect chance to tease Iori with the surprise attack. However, he understands there is no time for that despite the temptation to annoy the redhead and get his attention.

When Iori lifts his head, his eyes follow one Kusanagi casually sitting on the couch next to him and resting his head behind his arms.

Lastly, Kyo briefly asks ‘‘So, what did you want?’’.

However, instead of saying anything, Yagami places the papers on the coffee table.

Such a gesture lets the brunette understand he is in deep trouble. Nevertheless, he defends himself ‘‘Are you still mad that I slept in the bedroom? I didn’t do it on purpose! I swear, I just went to get some water, but somehow I fell asleep in your bed. Besides, I have done nothing wrong to you while I was asleep, have I?’’.

Finally, Iori addresses him ‘‘About that…’’. While his rival stares at him like a cornered cat, the redhead continues ‘‘What happened between you and future me?’’. After deeply exhaling, he comments ‘‘I swear, you cannot live without sticking your nose where you shouldn’t.’’

It doesn’t satisfy the Kusanagi heir, who indignantly replies ‘‘You are stubborn as usual! Like hell, I can stand watching you suffer each time from blood curse alone or even almost dying!’’.

At the moment, Yagami feels annoyed. As he face-palms, he girds his teeth and growls ‘‘Mind your own business!…’’.

Yet, the brunette counter-attacks ‘‘Why didn’t you do the same? You couldn’t get enough of me and even chased me all around the world and…’’. Unfortunately, the rest of the words stuck inside Kyo’s throat, and he only lowers his gaze.

For sure, such a reaction makes the redhead curious. Nevertheless, he sits back and comments ‘‘Hmph. Don’t tell me that your little feathers have been finally ruffled and burnt, and how you still can get over it?’’.

‘‘You don’t know about the clones and what happened in NESTS lab, do you?’’ Or so Kyo replies in a deeper tone while sending his rival an unusually cold and piercing gaze.

Surely, this gaze alone intimidates Iori and makes him nervously swallow the saliva. After all, it’s still rare to see the Kusanagi heir deadly serious. There are no signs of the same reckless and lively brunette he knows. Definitely, he hit a sensitive and painful Kyo’s spot.

Lastly, Kyo closes his eyes and fixes his hair. After deeply exhaling and opening his eyes, he addresses Iori ‘‘It can’t be helped… Fine, I’ll let you know what happened. So, it’s up to you whether or not to believe it.’’.

And thus, the brunette tells his unfortunate tale while staring into the void ‘‘You see, I was kidnapped and kept as a prisoner by a group of creeps. Not only they treated me as a prisoner but also as a freak and testing animal. That’s right, being dragged and strapped on the examination table and surrounded by faceless surgeons while the scientist took notes for their research. I could scream, whine, or resist, but all these people in white coats only glimpsed at their notebooks and wrote something… I was just a piece of living meat for them. At least, that is the kindest way I can describe it.’’.

For now, Kyo’s face darkens, and he lowers his head. Even his stiffening shoulders show the slowly rising gloominess and fear ‘‘That’s right, day after the day, I was used as a tool, a test object. Just what tests they haven’t run on me? From cutting my flesh and drawing my blood to being forced and publicly humiliated to get all samples from me or for their sick entertainment. At first, I resisted and attempted to escape. But then, I would get beaten, drugged, or electrocuted as a punishment. Later on, I was put into a capsule filled with a weird liquid. At least when I got injected with a strong drug, I was put down into a deep sleep.’’.

Meanwhile, Iori doesn’t hide his concern for his rival or his anger about how Kyo was taken from him. Suddenly, he corners his rival and scolds him ‘‘How the fuck did you let this happen?! Why didn’t you do anything?’’.

Despite that, the brunette turns his head away and back-fires in a slightly trembling voice ‘‘It’s easy for you to judge me, you fucking idiot… After we sealed Orochi, we were sent in different directions after that huge blast. I don’t know how long we were knocked out, but I can recall that I was awakened by a group of people dressed in hazmat suits. Even when they dragged me, you and Kagura were still unconscious. Hell, if my body wasn’t too weak and exhausted, I would have roasted these assholes! However, all I could is watch how you were asleep.’’.

Suddenly, Kyo cracks a fake smile and chuckles ‘‘But even when I was sealed in the capsule, I could still hear your desperate and howling voice and how you were calling me. I swear… you sure are obsessed with me, Yagami. Sometimes I wonder if you have a soft spot for me that you can’t let me go.’’.

Finally, the Kusanagi heir returns his gaze to Iori and sighs ‘‘If you truly wanted to take my life by your hands as you claim, you would have already done this. After all, you had so many good chances, but you keep missing them purposely or holding back.’’.

After he closes his eyes, the brunette takes his rival’s wrists and places his hands on his own neck. When Kyo opens his eyes, he gives a soft gaze ‘‘Look. You can do it right here, right now. But you hesitate even when I’m willing to die. Why? Why do you want to keep me alive? Even Yagami, I know, avoids this question and only gives a vague reason.’’. Lastly, Kyo lowers his hands while observing and waiting for how the redhead will react.

When Yagami removes his hands from his rival’s neck, he leans closer to him ‘‘You keep sticking your nose where you shouldn’t. Have you heard the saying that curiosity killed a cat?’’.

‘‘And satisfaction revived it, Yagami. As long as it keeps you from harming yourself, I won’t leave you. As long as I’m alive, I won’t let Orochi, Hakkesshus, or anyone else torture you. I’ll wake you up when you’ll be possessed by your cursed blood!’’ Or so Kyo confesses.

After he closes his eyes and pretends to cough, the brunette opens his eyes and addresses Iori ‘‘A-anyway, is this what you wanted to know?’’.

Even so, Yagami asks while giving demanding look ‘‘You still haven’t answered my question, Kyo. What happened between you and future me?’’.

However, Kyo only sighs ‘‘I should ask this, you idiot. After all, even your future self refuses to tell me why he did what he did to me when I recovered in your apartment. If I tell you what happened that night, you may hate yourself. In any case, it shouldn’t concern you because what happened in my timeline may not happen here. If I show it to you, it will be wrong because not only I’ll steal you from other me but also betray Yagami, I know.’’.

When the brunette brushes Iori’s arm and stands up as gracefully as a feline, he turns his head to Iori ‘‘However, I’ll give you a hint. That one night, you revealed your true colors and intentions toward me, Yagami. So, be honest with your known Kyo the next time you’ll see him. I wonder if soon I may perish completely or… Well, whatever will happen, will happen.’’. And thus, the brunette leaves the living room.

Some time passed. Finally, Yagami and the Kusanagi twins arrive at their destination place. Even if it was a quick trip, it was far from pleasant and peaceful for anyone.

The redhead had to persuade Kyos to sit together in the back seat because it was the only way to avoid the dramatic scenes and ruckus. Although, he could still feel the tension between these siblings because they could start a fight at any moment.

Fortunately, the Kusanagis have caused no problems aside from sitting as far as possible and ignoring each other. In the end, Iori hopes that this is the last day when he needs to deal with the two annoying, immature brats.

After reaching the door of Kagura’s apartment, the redhead presses the doorbell. Soon enough, a familiar voice asks through the speaker ‘‘Who’s there?’’.

‘‘Just open the door, Kagura. There is something important I need to ask you. Or even better, see it by yourself.’’ Yagami replies in a slightly annoyed tone.

A couple of seconds pass. After the sound of an unlocked lock, this person opens the door.

As soon as the ebony-haired woman notices the third person next to Kyo and Iori, she raises an eyebrow ‘‘It’s unusual for you to show up together with the Kusanagi like this. And who is this person? Is this a new relative of the Kusanagi clan that I’m not aware of?’’.

However, the older Kyo indignantly responds ‘‘Oi, that’s rather a stupid ques- !’’.

Unfortunately, Yagami instantly shuts him up by covering his mouth and answering Chizuru ‘‘So we came for your advice. Maybe you would know anything about this.’’. In the end, she lets them inside.

After Kagura invites her guests to the living room, they sit on the couch.

When Iori sits in the middle of the couch, the twins join him and surround him. While Chizuru sits in front of them, she asks in a serious tone ‘‘I don’t understand. Is this some sort of joke? Who is this Kusanagi twin?’’.

Yet, the younger Kyo, who sits on the left side, defends himself ‘‘It’s not my fault that this freak showed up from nowhere and attacked me! Hell, he could also use the same flame as me.’’.

The older Kusanagi tries his best not to lose his temper and resist the temptation to roast his look-alike. After he rolls his eyes and takes a deep breath, he resentfully comments ‘‘I understand Yagami might be too dumb to realize that this thing is only a mere clone. But you… I thought you were smarter than that. Can you explain to that moron that this creature somehow survived the NESTS experiment? Maybe only then his stubborn ass will do something.’’

Just as the younger brunette is about to get up and open his mouth, he gets stopped by the redhead’s palm and his command ‘‘Sit! Just what you were thinking?’’.

Meanwhile, Chizuru is more and more confused.

As Iori facepalms, he complains ‘‘And this is what I had to deal with since yesterday. First, one idiot shows up and acts like an arrogant child. Then, another one storm in and throws a tantrum.’’.

After a moment, the ebony-haired woman comments ‘‘Perhaps, it’s the consequence of the Orochi’s broken seal…’’.

Suddenly, the older Kusanagi slams his palms against the coffee table ‘‘What!? Again? Ugh… Haven’t we beat his ass last year? For god’s sake, I thought these Hakkesshus were all fucking dead!… Okay, who is behind this time? Who the fuck is asking for trouble? Shit… I just escaped the living hell, and wiped out an entire herd of ugly clones and NESTS just for this!? For the love of the, give me a rest!’’.

As the Kusanagi widens his eyes and roughly breathes, everyone remains silent in the room.

In the end, Yagami covers his face and shakes his head while asking in a disappointed tone ‘‘What are you talking about? Did you hit your head somewhere?’’.

Of course, the redhead’s reply shocks the older Kyo, and he feels betrayed by these words alone.

‘Either he is doing this purposely, or he forgot what happened to them. Once this is over, that stupid Yagami will get what he deserves for acting like an ignorant fool.’ Or so, the brunette thinks to himself as he shakily clenches his palms into fists and cracks a nervous smile.

Meanwhile, the younger Kusanagi slightly moves away to the end of the couch as he questions life choices.

‘What is his problem? Why does he have to act like a victim and make such a scene?’ He wonders about his twin.

Suddenly, the older Kyo turns to Iori’s side and replies in a mocking voice ‘‘Well, excuse me if you were blown away and hit your empty head during the sealing process. Maybe thanks to that, you lost all your remaining brain cells, you fucking moron! Oh, or perhaps, when you got electrocuted also did a good job on you, and you lost all your memory?’’.

That’s it! It is the last drop of the redhead’s patience. He cannot allow being insulted by some Kusanagi brat. Unfortunately, he can’t finish him up at the same spot because of their current place and time. For now, Yagami growls at Kyo, who cracks his knuckles and is about to fight back.

Just before this escalated into a conflict, the shrine maiden quickly responds. After she stands up, she scolds these idiots ‘‘It’s not the time for the fight! You should save your strength before the incoming battle against the legendary demon. After all, the world’s fate depends on us, and we cannot fail. If I see even the tiniest argument between you two, I’ll lock you together in the same room until you get along.’’.

Fortunately, it got the attention of the Kusanagi twins and Iori, who only silently stared at Chizuru. For sure, this punishment sounds even worse than any imaginable torture. Besides, the redhead and the twins know it was wiser not to test this woman’s patience or else no god or devil will save them.

After she puts them into their place, Kyos politely apologized while Yagami indignantly turns away.

When Kagura sits, she calmly explains ‘‘Anyway, Yata mirror will show whether one of the Kusanagi could be the Hakkesshu clan’s secret servant or not.’’.

As she notices that the younger Kyo is stressed and confused, she comforts him ‘‘Yata mirror never lies and only shows the truth. So, don’t have to worry if you are Kusanagi.’’.

Suddenly, she makes big innocent eyes and asks the redhead ‘‘By the way, Yagami, you haven’t arrived on foot? Or have you? You see, my motorcycle is broken, and I left the Yata mirror in the shrine. So, could you drop us there?’’.

While she holds her palms together and closes her eyes, she patiently waits for the answer.

In the end, Iori realizes he has to play along if he wants to get rid of Kyos and never see them again. After he rolls his eyes, he sighs ‘‘Fine… If that means I don’t need to deal with you anymore.’’.

Lastly, Kagura delightfully replies ‘‘Great! It seems that you finally took this seriously.’’.

‘‘Whatever.’’ Iori silently murmurs under his nose.

More importantly, during this trip, there will be another adult person to monitor these twins. Or so, the redhead comforts himself.

After a while, the Four Sacred Treasures arrive at Kagura’s shrine, and Chizuru tells Iori and the twins to wait outside. So that no one would disturb her while she contacts the spirits of the Yata mirror. And thus, the trio would need to survive without killing each other until Kagura is done.

Some time passes, and the ebony-haired woman finishes preparing for the ritual. The darkness fills the room. Yet, as she casts the enchanting spell, the platinum light radiates from the sacred relic.

As the vague image in the Yata mirror becomes clear, it shows all the wanted answers to this woman. Lastly, Chizuru widens her eyes and remarks in a shaky voice ‘‘It cannot be… Then, it means…’’.

Suddenly, the wind rustles the tree leaves around the shrine, and several crows fly away.

Meanwhile, the redhead is bored, and Kyos nearly falls asleep as they bathe in the warm sunbeams.

Yet, the slamming door interrupts the peaceful moment. After Kagura appears, she speaks up in a serious tone ‘‘I need you to gather inside the shrine.’’. For sure, whatever she saw in the mirror isn’t promising.

When everyone is inside, Iori sits on his knees and in the center of the Kusanagis. While Chizuru is in front of the trio, she announces ‘‘I’ve contacted the spirits of the Yata mirror, and it shows that both of the Kusanagis are the same person.’’.

As the redhead nervously cracks a smile, he shakes his head. ‘‘You must be joking, right? Are you sure that your mirror has made no mistakes?’’ Yagami asks in disbelief.

Yet, Chizuru keeps a serious look and replies ‘‘You should never doubt the Yata mirror.’’. When she stares at the brunette from Iori’s left side, she comments ‘‘This Kusanagi is the one we know, and he belongs to our world.’’.

After the shrine maiden looks at the Kyo from the redhead’s right, she continues ‘‘And this one is from a near future. Because of the strong force interfacing, he is stuck here. This Kusanagi must return to his timeline before another great disaster occurs.’’.

Meanwhile, the older Kyo refuses to believe what Kagura said. Firstly, he encountered his look-alike. Then, he gets treated like an alien. On the other hand, if this woman is right, it makes sense why no one believes him.

Suddenly, he gets returned to his senses by Chizuru’s questions ‘‘When did you arrive in this world? Whom else have you met?’’.

While the older brunette rubs his nape, he answers in an unsure voice ‘‘What are you talking about? I’ve always been there. Maybe your mirror got broken after Orochi’s sealing. That’s why it might only have the memory of me in the past. Therefore, it mistakes that cheap clone with me.’’.

Kagura only closes her eyes and exhales. After opening her eyes, she patiently explains ‘‘Kusanagi, do you know what year is now? It’s only the ‘97, and Orochi hasn’t been resurrected yet. You defeated it in your timeline, but not here. I saw what happened to you afterward - your disappearance and what you went through. However, none of this happened in our world.’’.

The more Yagami listens to this conversation, the more he is anxious. It’s already annoying to deal with one pesky Kusanagi’s heir. Unfortunately for him, thanks to an unexpected wanderer, his problems only double.

Lastly, Iori asks Chizuru in a demanding tone ‘‘What should we do about these two? If anyone sees them together, it will only cause trouble and unnecessary noise. There is no way that I let them live in my apartment any longer.’’.

Such questions only make the ebony-haired woman smile ‘‘Oh, but you don’t need to do this. Although, that was kind of you. The original Kusanagi can return to his home. On the other hand, the Kusanagi from the future has nowhere to stay, has he? So, could you let him stay for a bit longer at your place? Or at least until I’ll figure out what we can do to help him to return home.’’.

‘Oh no… Not again. Why do I have to be surrounded by the bunch of fools who keep using big eyes and get away with it?’ Iori murmurs as he accepts to carry his cross and take care of Kyo.

Meanwhile, the older Kusanagi teases Iori in a cheerful tone ‘‘Oi, Yagami. You don’t need to be so salty.’’ and keeps his smug face ‘‘It’s nothing that I’m going to eat you. Besides, that little bastard will be gone.’’.

As the younger brunette observes this scene, he stares at Kagura and addresses her while pointing at his look-alike ‘‘And you wanna say that this cocky bastard is me?! You gotta be kidding me. No way in hell that he is me! Nor did I let that crazy pyromaniac anywhere close to Yagami. That dangerous prick can snap his neck during his sleep! Hell, I don’t wanna that Yagami’s stupid ghost will haunt me! ‘Cos he will never leave me at peace.’’.

While the younger Kyo aggressively stares at his replica, the older one reflects that gaze and swooshes his hair.

The Kusanagi from the right side addresses Chizuru ‘‘That’s right! This lousy brat is not me. Even Shingo can make better flames than him. More so, he lacks my charms and skills and nowhere near has the grain of my power!’’.

For sure, such an insult shocks Kyo from the left. After standing up, the brunette’s eyes burn with pure rage for his opponent while he cracks his knuckles ‘‘You’ve gone too far, pal! Don’t tell me I haven’t warned you.’’.

When his look-alike stands up and thrusts his chest forward, he gives a mocking gaze ‘‘Oh~ You leave me no choice. I’ll roast your chicken feathers!’’.

At that moment, everything ceased to exist for these stubborn Kusanagis. Meanwhile, Iori uses this in his advance. Just as Chizuru was about to stop them, Yagami gives her the gaze saying that everything is under his control.

After the redhead stands up and steps back, he extends his arms at Kyos. Lastly, he smacks their heads ‘‘Will you stop fighting!? Shut up and listen to the adults!’’.

As the Kusanagis rub their heads, they speak up in unison ‘‘You asshole…’’. Fortunately, such an attack helped them to cool down.

In the end, Yagami takes his leave and takes Kyos with him.

Fortunately, the redhead only needs to take care of one brunette instead of two. More importantly, it can be a good chance to learn more about him and what happens in the future.

Finally, the long-awaited day arrives. Despite feeling nervous, Shingomi decides not to delay any longer and to confess her feelings to one special person. She knows she has to do it now because there might be no other chance like this.

That’s right, the first time Yabuki gathered all her courage to tell how she feels about her adored mentor ended with failure.

That day when she was supposed to meet up with Kyoko, there was no sign of her, nor did she pick up the calls. It wouldn’t be this bad if the robotic voice told her many times that the receiver was out of reach.

More importantly, Shingomi was devastated to learn about the sudden Kusanagi’s heir disappearance for nearly a year, and no one hasn’t known why and where she was gone.

Nevertheless, the younger brunette was excited and glad when her precious returned and even ruffled her hair while giving a warm smile.

No matter why Kyoko took such a long vacation without telling no one, Shingomi was sure that her mentor had her reasons, which should be respected and not questioned. Or so, Yabuki convinced herself.

Besides, the younger brunette doesn’t want to annoy her mentor with too many unnecessary questions. Even if she cannot understand why after taking a so-called long break, Kyoko looks exhausted and stiff and always avoids talking about it.

But for now, Shingomi impatiently waits for the Kusanagi to show up.

Since it was such an intimate topic to talk about, she had to make sure that no one else would laugh at her by saying these easy yet most difficult three words. That’s why Yabuki had to invite her adored Kusanagi-san to her house when her parents were at work.

Besides, it wasn’t the first time she and Kyoko were hanging out or studying together. After all, this place was familiar to the Kusanagi’s heir since their high-school days. Perhaps it might be the perfect spot to confess her feelings.

Or so, the younger brunette wonders as she checks on herself in the mirror so that nothing could go wrong. Nor making herself look like a fool in front of her most important person.

As Shingomi finishes fixing her hair, she hears a doorbell ringing.

‘‘Ah! It must be Kusanagi-san.’’ The brunette remarks with excitement in her voice. Lastly, she encourages her reflection in the mirror ‘‘Alright! You can do it! I… I’ll do my best for Kusanagi-san.’’. And with these words, Yabuki dashes to greet her mentor.

After she unlocks the door, she notices a familiar brunette wearing a white jacket, a black turtle-neck sleeveless t-shirt, and a pair of jeans.

Unlike her disciple, Kyoko looks concerned, yet she addresses the younger brunette in a serious tone ‘‘You asked me to come here as soon as possible. Did anything bad happen? Or did you get into trouble again?’’.

However, Yabuki gives a puzzled look and innocently asks ‘‘Eh? Why do you think like that, Kusanagi-san?’’. When Shingomi turns her head, she adds in a shy tone ‘‘But there is something important that I want to tell you for a long time. So, please, come in.’’.

This kind of reply confuses and concerns the Kusanagi even more. Nevertheless, she follows her disciple while hoping that it is nothing more but a bad sense.

After they got into the younger brunette’s room, Shingomi politely asks her mentor whenever she wants anything to drink or for a snack. Of course, Kyoko couldn’t decline Yabuki’s offer when she uses her puppy eyes.

Some time passed. When the younger brunette returns with two cups of hot chocolate, she gives one to the adored Kusanagi-san, who sits on the edge of the bed.

Lastly, as Shingomi sits next to Kyoko, the older brunette addresses her ‘‘So, tell me what is happening? Because you wouldn’t call out of blue.’’.

While Yabuki lowers her gaze and stares at her prepared drink, she replies in a slightly shaky voice ‘‘I know if I tell you this, you’ll probably be disappointed, disgusted, or even hate me. That’s why I’m not sure if it is okay to say it…’’.

After facepalming and deeply exhaling, Kyoko faces her disciple ‘‘Why do you think that way? Do you think I would hang out with anyone I cannot tolerate? Listen, if I hate you, I won’t even bother to talk to you.’’.

When she puts her drink on the night table, the Kusanagi’s heir places her hand on Shingomi’s shoulder and gives a comforting gaze ‘‘Besides, I cannot force myself to be even mad at you if you did nothing wrong. So, it’s okay. You can tell me whatever doesn’t give you rest.’’.

However, the younger brunette objects in a quiet tone ‘‘After this, you will.’’.

‘‘You don’t trust me, right?’’ Kyoko comments in a serious tone.

Suddenly, Shingomi widens her eyes and defends herself ‘‘Of… of course I trust you! However, I doubt that you’ll do once it’s over.’’.

‘‘You’ll never know unless you try it. So, shoot it~’’ The older brunette replies with a determined look.

This is it! She can’t run away any longer. Whatever will be the outcome, Shingomi is ready to accept it. Even if that means losing her adored mentor. At least, in this case, the younger brunette would show what she calls, the worst thing to expect from her.

After nervously swallowing the saliva and clenching her hands into the fists, Yabuki closes her and confesses from the bottom of her heart ‘‘I LIKE YOU!’’. Of course, such words shock Kyoko, and she dumbfounded stares at her disciple.

When the younger brunette opens her eyes, she continues her speech despite feeling how the heat rushes to her cheeks and ears ‘‘No… It’s not the right word for it! I… I mean ‘like’ wouldn’t be enough… I… I… lo… lo… I love you! So, there! I know you may not feel the same, nor do I expect you to forgive me for this. I mean, how can I be even worth enough to be anywhere near you? However, I cannot keep this secret any longer. It would be the wrong thing to do. That’s why, whatever you decide, I will be fine.’’.

Once Yabuki finishes her speech, she lowers her head and closes her eyes while impatiently waiting for the verdict of her mentor.

Meanwhile, Kyoko still cannot comprehend what happened and covers her mouth. Suddenly, she realizes that she has to say anything.

After a brief pause, the older brunette breaks the silence in a bewildered voice ‘‘I… I don’t know what to say… Nor do I have any idea that this is how you feel.’’.

‘‘I knew you would hate me now!’’ Shingomi replies in a wretched voice as she cannot stop the flowing tears.

Yet, the Kusanagi’s heir softens her gaze and sighs. Lastly, she pressed her disciple’s head against her chest and pulls into a tight hug.

Of course, Yabuki widens her eyes at such an unexpected gesture, but as soon as she feels how gently her hair is stroked, she closes her eyes and listens to Kyoko’s comforting voice ‘‘Did I ever tell anything like that? Perhaps it was hard for you to have such a struggle. But it’s okay now. You finally did it, and you took a lot of courage to take such an important step. I won’t lie. I feel honored that you feel this way about me, and I truly appreciate it.’’.

‘‘So, you feel the same way as I do, Kusanagi-san?’’ The younger brunette asks in a shaky voice while continuing to listen to the calming heartbeat of her most adored person.

As Kyoko still holds Shingomi in her warm embrace, she replies ‘‘Don’t get me wrong, you are a good girl, but you deserve a better person who would care about you as much as you care about me. Besides, you are still like a good friend to me. So, I prefer to keep it the way it is.’’.

‘‘I see… So, does Kusanagi-san already have that one important person?’’ The younger brunette asks in a gloomy tone.

Suddenly, the Kusanagi’s heir briefly cracks a smile and turns her head ‘‘I guess you could say so, even despite their flaws and stubborn behavior. However, who else will take care of them and soothe their wounds if it wasn’t me?’’.

‘‘Do I know this person?’’ Yabuki asks.

As the older brunette ruffles Shingomi’s hair, she answers ‘‘Unfortunately, I cannot tell you that. Unless someday they will come out. Until then, we might get into deep trouble just by mentioning it. On the other hand, even if you confessed to me before they did, I would have taken this as seriously as someone having just a temporary crush on me.’’.

In the end, Kyoko continues in a soft voice ‘‘I’m sorry, but I’m still not sure how we ended up like that after the… A-anyway, it’s a long story, and you probably will fall asleep. So, how about we should go somewhere once you cool down?’’.

‘But I want to know everything about you and why did you disappeared so suddenly.’ Or so, Shingomi thinks to herself.

However, Yabuki uses her chance and hugs back her precious Kusanagi-san. Lastly, Kyoko remarks ‘‘Someone is rather clingy, isn’t it? Fine. I don’t mind staying like this for a bit longer.’’.

Finally, the two Resistance soldiers arrived at their destination place. And thus, after leaving their spaceship, they are greeted with the deadly world of the Metal Jungle.

Metal Jungle, formerly known as Heart of Gaia, was like a paradise because of its variety of flora and fauna. However, everything changed after the Empire colonized this planet and abused it for its never-ending resources. Later on, it would help them win the Great War in the future.
 
Unfortunately, it only took less than a century until the colonists damaged the ecosystem of the Heart of Gaia beyond recovery. However, humans realized this when it was already too late to do anything when the ecological disaster would happen soon.
 
Nevertheless, the Empire forced the scientists to restore the former paradise. Those who refused to cooperate were eliminated, and any trace of their existence was destroyed.
 
With each failed attempt, the government was outrageous. Yet, one day, a strange group showed up. Their leader explained they are a powerful organization - NESTS, which is neither against nor on the Empire’s side, just a bystander.
 
After all, they have their own goals. However, NESTS offered a better solution, which, according to them, would make the Empire so powerful that no force in the entire universe wouldn’t stop them.
 
The Empire was interested in the NESTS’ plan and generously paid them in advance. After the ruler of the Empire and the leader of NESTS shook hands, these organizations worked as one and gave an oath to never betrayed each other.

However, the leader of NESTS secretly cracks a smile while holding his other hand behind his back.
 
Years passed, and the surface of the Heart of Gaia changed drastically. Once known as the pinnacle of nature and all life forms, this planet now wears an iron mask. Eventually, it was named Metal Jungle.
 
As the name suggests, cyborgs and other advanced robotic creatures replaced all the life-forms to protect the dozens of weapon and armor factories. However, to keep the plants alive and serve as a protection from entering deeper into the Metal Jungle, NESTS scientists modified them.
 
In the end, this highly protected place kept the Empire strong.
 
After the Resistance Force learned about the Metal Jungle, they saw this as an opportunity to have a greater chance to fight back against the Empire.
 
The commander is aware of the dangerous nature of this place, but he takes the risk and sends some of his soldiers on a looting mission.
 
But for now, while Shingo follows Iori, he asks him in a polite tone ‘‘Um, Yagami-san… Should we contact the Headquarters first?’’.
 
‘‘Do as you wish. You can talk with these fools all you want until I return.’’ The redhead backfires without looking back.
 
The brunette politely objects ‘‘But we’ve been told that-’’.

However, Yagami interrupts him while giving a cold glare “You’re staying here, got it? I don’t need a useless brat who would just bother me.”.

In the end, Shingo remains silent and lowers his gaze, but he refuses to listen to his partner’s request.

Some time passes. As they go deep into the mechanized forest, Iori feels that something is off. It’s too quiet for a place which supposes to be heavily protected.

Nevertheless, he is ready to draw his trustworthy laser blade at any time.

Meanwhile, Yabuki is about to contact the operators through his transmission device. However, after hearing a cracking noise and the operator responding, the brunette freezes at the same point.

“This is Headquarters. Can you hear us?” The operator’s voice speaks, even if her voice cannot reach the brunette anymore.

Shingo got barely time to react when Iori charges his blade at the roaring beast behind him. One sudden move and the junior soldier feels how the warm, dark liquid splashes on him.

As soon as the slain creature hits the ground, Yabuki shakily holds the buster gun and shoots at the swarm of flying mechanic insects.

He is terrified, but he continues to blast his targets while Yagami covers his partner’s back. For now, if the redhead wants to survive, he has no other choice than team up with that brat.

Besides, he can use Shingo as a momentary distraction and escape while searching for Kyo or use that brat as a meat shield. Or so, Iori convinces himself as his instinct to kill takes him over.

Unfortunately, the more mechanic creatures the duo has destroyed, the more of them keep spawning. There is no end to it, unlike the stamina of the Resistance Soldiers.

Even Yabuki fears that it is a matter of minutes, if not the seconds, before their demise.

Suddenly, the brunette remembers about one item, which one member of the Rescue Squad gave to him after he recovered. That tiny oval-shaped metal was supposed to be like a gift for the rookie, and it should be used when he would be in danger.

As the young soldier fighting back the enemy, he grasps a small item in his chest’s pocket.

“Yagami-san! Start running as fast as you can when I give a signal!” The brunette addresses his partner. Lastly, he twists the tiny bomb and launches it at the insects that almost over-whelmed Iori.

There is no time to waste, nor a second chance! Shingo grabs Iori by the back of his uniform and drags him.

He doesn’t care if Yagami yells at him - all he cares about is staying alive.

As soon as the Resistance soldiers run, the loud explosion echoes through the area. A second later, the blinding white color and high-pitched beeping surround everything.

Suddenly, Shingo trips over the fallen vine and drags Iori down with him.

After the brunette sits up while groaning, he opens his eyes and notices that the white light is gone. More so, all mechanical creatures are disabled.

Even Yabuki is unsure what just happened.

‘‘So, maybe this is what these guys meant when they said that this little device holds a huge destructive power…’’ Shingo remarks in a shaky voice while he rubs his nape.

After the redhead gets up, he looks around and scolds his partner ‘‘Tsk… Why haven’t you done this earlier, you stupid, useless brat?’’.

When Yabuki gives him such a guilty gaze, Iori continues lecturing him ‘‘Whatever… You’ll explain to me later. For now, who knows how long these bots are disabled. So, let’s move. Or do you prefer to sit here and get killed?’’.

In the end, Shingo follows the Yagami’s given orders.

On their way, the brunette tries to contact the Resistance Headquarters again. Fortunately, this time he could do it and give a brief report of the current progress. Although Iori remains silent and grumpy during Yabuki’s speech.

Some time passed. Finally, the duo reaches an enormous building, which they assume is one of the weapon factories.

Yet, as soon as Iori spots in the distance that there are a couple of soldiers in black biometal armor and white shiny metal helmets, which cover their faces, he gives Shingo a command to hide behind the nearest tree.

‘‘Listen carefully, you fool. You won’t move a single muscle until I say so, got it?’’ Yagami quietly addresses his partner while they observe the guards.

Yabuki only silently nods and listens further to the commands ‘‘There won’t be any second chance. If you fail, it’s your fault for dying. When I give you a signal, you will shoot at one of the guards. So, while you distract them, I approach them and kill them. Do you understand?’’.

Shingo nods again ‘‘Yes.’’.

‘‘Good. So, let’s split out.’’ Iori adds in a strict tone.

After doing as he was told, the redhead raises his arm and instantly lowers it ‘‘Now!’’.

Suddenly, the brunette shoots at the alerted guards, who are focusing on their new target. Fortunately, he can blast one of the soldier’s shooting guns.

Meanwhile, Yagami draws his laser blade and charges at one of the guards. Soon enough, Shingo joins him.

As the brunette is busy dealing with one guard who only possesses the laser blade, Iori focuses on another one.

No matter how fast is the enemy’s bullet, the redhead successfully blocks them with his blade. When Iori is close enough, he slashes the guard’s gun.

A second later, Yagami kicks into his opponent’s stomach and forcing him to fall to the ground.

However, just before the redhead claims the victory, the guard picks the laser blade from the pocket on his thigh and swings the blade.

Fortunately, Iori’s reaction is faster, and he dodges the attack. After his opponent stands up, he keeps attacking the redhead.

The more they fight, the more Yagami realizes that his opponent’s style is similar to Kyo’s.

The redhead can hear his heartbeat ringing inside his head. However, he cannot let his emotions control him. After all, he is still not sure if it is his old-time partner in missions.

Even if it is the brainwashed Kusanagi, Iori still needs to defeat him first. Either this way, either only by killing the guard in front of him is the only way to find out the truth.

This is the first time in his life when he prays to the god that his guess should be wrong.

As he blocks and dodges his enemy’s attacks, the redhead notices that the guard’s movements are less agile and more aggressive. Nevertheless, Iori uses this as an advance.

Lastly, Yagami aims at his opponent’s arm, which holds the blade. One sudden strike, and the armored fellow bleeds.

While the guard is paralyzed in pain, Iori slashes his opponent with an uppercut. In the end, the guard falls while the dark red liquid splashes like a fountain.

However, as the redhead mercilessly observes the killed guard lying in his blood, he suddenly widens his eyes and turns his head towards the terrified scream ‘‘KUSANAGIIIII-SAAAN!’’.

As Yagami runs in the direction where was his partner, he notices how Shingo’s knees give up on him and how he covers his face while sobbing.

Even Iori can barely comprehend the sight in front of him. He refuses to believe that he is not dreaming.

Next to the younger brunette lies Kyo with the stabbed chest. The paled-face Kusanagi remains dumbfounded while the small bloodstream runs down the corner of his lips.

Meanwhile, the tears don’t stop flowing through the gaps of Yabuki’s palms as he sobs ‘‘I’m… I’m… sorry… I… I… killed him… I… killed… Kusanagi-san… Wha- what… What have I done?… why?… Kusanagi-san…’’.

Even Iori feels heartbroken while refusing to accept the Kusanagi’s demise. Yet, it doesn’t change the fact that he failed to protect the only person in the world who mattered to him. After the redhead sits near Kyo, he brushes the brunette’s bangs from his face.

However, something catches Yagami’s attention. Iori cannot understand why a metal plate is attached to his forehead. More so, when he turns Kyo’s head, he notices the tattooed barcode with the serial number on his nape.

Suddenly, the redhead comes up with a crazy idea. Yet, he hopes he might be right this time. After leaving the grieving Yabuki, Iori checks his killed guard.

When Yagami squats near the corpse, he turns the guard’s head and notices the same barcode with the serial number. Yet, he still needs to remove the helmet to see who this person is.

After pressing the button on the bottom backside of the helmet, it loosens and fall-off.

In the end, all Iori can do is stare in belief. The lying person in front of him is also the Kusanagi. The redhead covers his mouth with his palm and shakes his head.

‘‘There is no way any of these bastards are Kyo… It’s not Kyo. It’s not him! It can’t be him! IT’S NOT KYO! WHERE THE FUCK IS HE?! I WON’T FORGIVE TO THOSE WHO TOOK HIM FROM ME!’’ Yagami howls as the beast. Suddenly, his sorrow grows into a pure rage.

As he shakily holds his palms into the fists and grinds his teeth, Iori swears to hunt down and murder everyone who stole his Kyo from him and made him suffer.

But for now, Yagami aggressively approaches Shingo.

When Iori squats, he roughly grabs the brunette by his uniform and lifts him. Despite the sudden behavior of his partner, Shingo keeps his head hung and refuses to face the redhead.

Suddenly, Iori harshly slaps the junior soldier’s face and yells ‘‘Get a hold of yourself! There is no time for that! It’s not Kyo!’’.

Meanwhile, Shingo dumbfounded stares with his red and teary eyes at the redhead.

Even after Yagami releases him, the brunette barely stands on his feet. For now, he listens to Iori, who threatens him ‘‘If that was Kyo, I would make sure that you will have a living hell until you’ll die like a dog. Understand? But now, it means that he may be still alive somewhere.’’.

After a brief pause, the redhead continues his speech ‘‘We need to see what’s inside this building. But before that, contact the Headquarters.’’.

When Iori stares at his partner, who is about to weep again, he dials the Headquarters. Besides, he might get into trouble because of one brat who can’t behave properly. Therefore, no matter how Yagami hates talking to these lousy operators, he has to do it.

After giving a quick summary of the discovery, Iori picks up his blade and cuts the door until he makes his way through. Lastly, he prompts the junior soldier to go inside.

However, neither they nor the Resistance Force is aware that there are not only weapon factors on this planet. Nor about the NESTS buildings where they dispose of the remains and corpses from the failed experiments.

And thus, Iori and Shingo enter the den of various creatures lurking in the dark and waiting for a new meal to play.

Several minutes pass, and after searching inside the shelves, Yagami finally finds a small black suitcase with a red cross on the front.

Meanwhile, the brunette worries about why Iori takes so long. Besides, he is unsure what his rival is going to do with him.

Yet, one thing is for sure—it doesn’t sound so promising to him.

After the redhead returns, he spots the Kusanagi ignoring his request. For sure, he feels annoyed and disappointed by such behavior. As Iori facepalms, he addresses Kyo ‘‘Are you dumb, or are you doing this on purpose? Don’t tell me you cannot do anything by yourself?’’.

Meanwhile, the Kusanagi’s heir remains speechless and stares like a kitten who doesn’t know what he did wrong.

However, Iori scolds him further ‘‘Do you realize that you’re making more trouble for yourself, don’t you?’’.

After deeply exhaling, the redhead puts the medical kit on the couch's edge. Lastly, he addresses Kyo ‘‘You’re leaving me no other choice.’’.

Suddenly, the brunette widens his eyes and panics. His rival picks him up like a wounded princess and lays him on the couch. For sure, if Kyo wasn’t in shock at the moment, he would try to resist.

As the Kusanagi’s heir’s body touches the couch, he closes his eyes and lets out a small whimper.

‘‘What a hell you think you’re doing?!’’ The brunette indignantly protests while unbothered Iori sits next to him.

However, Yagami doesn’t say a single word and leans toward Kyo while gazing at him with a serious gaze.

The brunette can feel his rapid and loud heartbeat. Yet, he can only nervously swallow the saliva and wait for how Iori will act further. He is unsure whether his rival will kill him with whatever is inside the suitcase, or perhaps…

‘No, there is no ‘perhaps’ or any other options than that! Not at least with someone like Yagami.’ Kyo convinces himself while brushing off the impossible scenarios out of his head. The Kusanagi realizes now he has to fight back before getting finished.

Before he does anything, he feels his rival’s hands on his belt. Just as Iori is about to unbuckle the belt, Kyo furrows his eyebrows and pushes Yagami ‘‘Hold a sec! What a hell you’re doing? Get off, you fool!’’.

Lastly, the brunette covers his mouth with his elbow while staring at his opponent with wide-open eyes and roughly breathing.

The Kusanagi’s heir loves to push his luck and play with the redhead’s nerves. Or so, Iori is convinced as he is on the verge of losing his patience.

Perhaps Kyo does not know how Yagami does his best to hold back from unnecessary violence. Yet, the redhead fixes his hair and addresses the stressed Kusanagi ‘‘You didn’t handle such a simple task, you idiot. That’s why I need to help you out. Any problems with that?’’.

‘‘Can you remind me why you are doing this? Are you up to something weird? Not only that fucking perverted freak stripped me naked. But now you as well?! What a hell is wrong with you? Don’t you have anything better to do?’’ The brunette backfires.

Iori shakily clenches his palms into a fist. After loosening his fists, the redhead addresses Kyo in as patient a tone as he can ‘‘I’m not sure what happened to you, but I cannot simply leave your wounds like that. So, why don’t you behave yourself?’’.

However, the Kusanagi suspiciously stares at him while objecting ‘‘Oh, so, this is how you call it? You could only roll up the shank and not randomly undress me, you fucking pervert!’’.

It was that close for Yagami to slap his rival again. Yet, he resists such urge and replies in a serious voice ‘‘Sure thing~ When the blood won’t reach your leg, I’ll have to amputee it, and I would have an advantage over you. So, the sooner I’ll take care of your leg, the faster you’ll recover and face me, Kyo.’’.

Of course, the brunette remains speechless, yet these words are enough to convince Kyo to listen to this man. Meanwhile, Iori gives the further instructions ‘‘So, stop acting like a child, and make sure that you’ll rest here once I’m done, got it?’’.

In the end, the Kusanagi’s heir swallows his pride and moves his hands on his belt. No matter how much he feels embarrassed about being watched by his rival, he unbuckles his belt and unzips his jeans.

He can swear that Iori is secretly enjoying seeing him struggling like this. Why else he would make such a demanding face?

So, just before lowering his jeans, Kyo asks in a shy tone ‘‘Do you need to stare at me like this?’’.

However, Yagami pretends to be coughing for a moment. As he crosses his arms and legs, Iori replies ‘‘You cannot behave yourself without my presence. So, blame yourself for ending up like this.’’.

Kyo turns his head and lowers his gaze. Finally, he raises his hips and removes the jeans. Hopefully, he doesn’t need to do anything embarrassing anymore. Or so, the brunette expects as he impatiently stares at Yagami.

The redhead gives another demand ‘‘Lie on your back and place your legs on my lap. And do not you ask why, got it?’’.

Of course, even if the Kusanagi’s heir knows he has to obey, he swears that he’ll get revenge for this.

After Iori picks up the first aid kit, he opens it and gets a roll of medical bandages, sterile gauze, and disinfectant spray. When Yagami lifts Kyo’s left ankle, he warns the brunette ‘‘Do not freak out.’’.

At first, he does not know what his rival means, yet, a second later, he realizes the meaning behind these words.

Suddenly Kyo gasps at feeling how the sprayed liquid burns his left shank. Yet, he bites into the sleeve of his jacket and closes his eyes while enduring such a painful procedure.

‘‘I need to clean your wounds first. So, stay still.’’ Iori calmly explains.

As soon as Yagami disinfects the area of the wounded leg while holding the ankle, he remarks ‘‘It doesn’t look as bad as I thought. However, I still need to wait until this area dries up. Can you keep your leg lifted?’’.

While the Kusanagi has no other choice, he keeps his left shank lifted while Iori unpacks the sterile gauze and prepares it for the incoming procedure.

A few minutes pass by. Finally, as the wounded leg dries up, Iori covers it with the gauze and wraps the medical bandage.

‘‘Is it not too tight or loose?’’ The redhead asks while wrapping the bandage around Kyo’s left shank.

Yet, the brunette silently shakes his head.

Even if it is the first time when Iori is taking care of him like this, Kyo has to admit that it isn’t as bad as he expected.

‘Perhaps he secretly took the first aid courses. How else he knows what he is doing? But why does he have to go that far?’ The Kusanagi wonders as he observes the redhead.

‘‘What’s wrong?’’ Iori asks as he notices his rival’s curious gaze.

‘‘No… nothing.’’ Kyo defends himself without noticing how his cheeks are in a lovely pink color.

Finally, Yagami finishes, and as he tears the medical bandage, he ties it into a neat knot ‘‘Whatever, it’s done. Now, you need to take a rest for tonight.’’.

While the redhead packs the remaining items inside the first aid kit, he hears Kyo questioning ‘‘How do you think I can go home like this?’’.

After Iori closes and zips the black suitcase, he explains ‘‘What are you talking about? I won’t let you go anywhere tonight. Like hell, I want to search for the half-naked brat passed out or wasted in the middle of nowhere. You like it or not but you’ll stay here until the morning.’’.

As Kyo leans on his elbows, he objects ‘‘I can still make it on my own. Besides, I’ll kick anyone’s ass if someone tries to attack me.’’.

‘‘Like how you did today? Unless you call crawling like a dog with its lowered tail your self-defense. Listen, I’m not in a mood to dirty my hands with anyone’s blood who will try to even lay a single finger on you.’’ Yagami backfires.

It is pointless to negotiate or over-talk to the stubborn redhead. Or so, Kyo realizes. That’s why it would be wiser to stay here for tonight.

‘Besides, who knows whenever that crazy pyromaniac who attacked me earlier might be anywhere around? So, that stupid Yagami should be grateful that I’m watching him over.’ The brunette thinks.

Yet, Kyo replies like a prideful cat ‘‘As if I had any plans… Besides, you can’t tell me what to do. So, I hope that you are happy now. Because now you won’t get rid of me, no matter how hard you’ll try.’’.

‘He starts to allow himself too much. So, this arrogant feline needs to learn its place…’ Iori wonders.

‘‘I just remembered one thing – you still haven’t got your dose of vitamin B. It’s a painful but effective medicine, which needs to be injected into the first quarter of a buttock.’’ The redhead explains in a casual tone.

These words are enough to wipe away the Kusanagi’s smug smile. As he is about to stand up and leave, the brunette replies in a slightly nervous tone ‘‘And I just remembered something too – I need to use the bathroom before going to bed. So, I’ll return, perhaps not so soon. Ah, and I can walk on my own!’’.

And thus, Kyo carefully walks toward the bathroom or looks for it. However, he still has no idea about the presence of his look-alike, who is already asleep in Iori’s bedroom.

Soon enough, the older Kyo reaches Iori’s apartment. But before pressing the doorbell, he fixes the ‘borrowed’ outfit while wondering how the redhead would react to seeing him dressed up like in the good old days.

After the brunette presses the bell, he listens to the ringing tune while impatiently waiting for the owner of this apartment to show up.

A couple of minutes pass by. However, there is no answer from one redhead.

‘Perhaps Yagami is not there, or he is sleeping. It doesn’t matter. Once he’ll notice that I’m here, all his sleepiness will be gone.’ Or so, Kyo thinks as he fed off by waiting.

Now, he presses the ring button once before launching an avalanche of rapidly pressing the poor button.

Finally, it appears that the Kusanagi’s hard work pays off. As he hears Iori ranting and cursing behind the door, Kyo smiles like an idiot.

After the redhead opens the door while murmuring something under his nose, he notices a familiar-looking face. However, he still keeps his grumpy face on and sighs.

At the moment, Iori is too tired to deal with the Kusanagi’s shenanigans and wishes to have some peace.

He addresses the brunette in an irritated and exhausted tone ‘‘Oh. It’s just you…’’. And thus, without letting Kyo say anything else, he shuts down the door right in front of his unwanted guest’s face.

Lastly, Yagami feels relieved after getting rid of Kyo and his annoying presence.

Unfortunately, the brunette doesn’t intend to give up so easily, or at least until he’ll get what he wants.

When Iori turns around and is about to walk away, he jolts at hearing another wave ringing bell.

That pesky Kusanagi wants to die so badly, huh? Or so, Iori wonders. Yet, before finishing Kyo off, he checks what he wants.

After opening the door, Yagami asks in a grumpy tone ‘‘What the hell do you want?’’.

 ‘‘I was just passing by, and I decided it would be nice to see you, Yagami.’’ Or so, Kyo replies with a smile on his face.

 Surely, Iori is so close to losing his patience, yet remains as chill as possible. For now, he just deeply exhales. Lastly, he speaks up in an annoyed voice ‘‘Great. Now, go away.’’.

However, before Yagami closes the door, Kyo pushes himself through the gap.

Finally, he makes his way into the redhead’s apartment. Hell, the Kusanagi even invades Iori’s personal space too.

Suddenly, the redhead widens his eyes at Kyo’s arrogant behavior and how there is so little space between them that the brunette nearly touches him. With no second thought, Iori backs off while giving an indignant and unwelcoming glare at the rude invader.

Despite that, the brunette keeps his hands in the pants’ pockets and lifts his eye-brow ‘‘What’s wrong with you? Did anyone piss you off again? Or are you still mad about that incident? I told you before. It’s not my fault that I had unexpected plans and needed to leave for a while. Anyway, I have to ask you something important.’’. As Kusanagi finishes his speech, he waits for the redhead’s explanation.

Meanwhile, Iori silently observes Kyo. There is something off, but he cannot put a finger on it. Something is different about the brunette, that’s for sure.

Perhaps, if he keeps an eye on the brunette for a bit, he can confirm or deny his doubts and suspiciousness about his uncalled guest. In any case, Yagami decides not to kick out Kyo and wait for how it will turn out.

On the other hand, the Kusanagi feels embarrassed, and he turns his head as the redhead stares at him like he is trying to see through him. He could swear that Iori undresses him just with the gaze alone. Or at least, he is convinced like that.

That’s why he doesn’t give into Yagami’s provocation. After returning his gaze, the brunette chuckles and asks in a slightly shy tone ‘‘What is it with you? Did anything happen?’’.

For now, Kyo’s tattered clothes catch Iori’s attention, and he scolds the brunette ‘‘Did you pick another fight with a random mob, and this time you lost and run away? Just look at yourself, you fool…’’.

The brunette keeps an innocent-like gaze while objecting ‘‘Well, it’s not quite right. Why do you think that I lost to some amateurs?’’. As he quickly checks his clothes, Kyo realizes that one shank of the pants is torn. After a brief pause, he continues ‘‘Oh~ You mean because of this?’’.

 Yet, Kusanagi changes the subject while addressing Iori in a serious tone ‘‘About this… Today I was minding my own business, and I saw one pesky clone wandering around. So, I followed him for a while. Then, I beat the shit out of that copycat. But because he resisted, I needed to change my clothes into this cheap uniform… Hell, even as a copy, he sure had the guts to attack me. Just what does he think is he? Don’t worry. If that low-life creature values his poor life, he shouldn’t cause problems any longer. That’s right, I left him resting in the place where he belongs – in the trash.’’

As Kyo finishes boosting about his victory, he proudly stands and delightfully closes his eyes.

All of a sudden, the brunette feels how Yagami press his palm against his forehead. After Iori removes his palm, he comments ‘‘You don’t have any temperature. So, you are drunk, or you hit your head too hard. Just what did you think up this time?’’.

Yet, the Kusanagi teases Iori ‘‘Aww, are concerned about me? That’s very nice of you, but you don’t have to.’’.

 That’s it! It is the last drop of the redhead’s patience, and he had enough of such insolent behavior. Yet, instead of acting like a savage, Yagami tries to sound as possible ‘‘I don’t repeat this twice. Get out! Or do you prefer to be delivered in pieces? I’ll be merciful, and I’ll even give you time to call your friends or whoever you want before I’ll shred you into pieces.’’.

However, Kyo gets serious and shows no fear, nor he’ll do as Iori says.

The brunette gets close to Yagami while keeping his hands in his pockets. Then, he thrusts his chest towards the redhead and gives him a blazing gaze ‘‘You always say stuff like that! For some reason, I wonder whenever you mean something else behind those words. Anyway, you know better than anyone else that no one will satisfy you as much as I do. So, why don’t we settle this right here, right now? I know you want it too~’’. Lastly, he impatiently waits for how his rival will act.

Meanwhile, Iori growls at Kyo while his hands are itchy to finish him nice and slow.

Certainly, such a raw reaction amuses the Kusanagi. Perhaps, at some point, even excites him. In the end, he doesn’t give in to the temptation.

As the brunette fixates his eyes on Yagami, he touches the redhead’s cheek. After Kyo closes his eyes and sighs, his hand slides down Iori’s neck, where it lands on his shoulder. Lastly, he opens his eyes and passes by his rival ‘‘Look, no matter how much you want to do it tonight, I’m not into that mood. So, just let me use the shower and stay here for tonight.’’.

When Kyo is about to head to Iori’s bathroom, he feels how the redhead grabs his shoulder and clenches his grasp harder. Despite the pain in his shoulder, the Kusanagi turns his head and brushes Yagami’s hand.

As the brunette cracks a smile, he comforts Iori ‘‘Oi, what’s wrong with you? It’s not like I’m here for the first time. You were the one who brought me here and treated my wounds since we escaped the lab. Don’t you remember that? Besides, it’s not fair that you can have all this place by yourself. Oh, and don’t worry, I just gonna stay only for tonight, unless you want me to leave as soon as possible, but by wearing your clothes~  Anyway, at least, let me wash this outfit. Then, as soon as it gets dry, I’ll leave, alright?’’.

In the end, Yagami allows Kyo to do as he wishes. Yet, he cannot understand such unusual Kusanagi behavior, nor what in the world happened to him. No matter how Iori tries to look at it, he is clueless. However, he is certain of one thing - tonight, he won’t have his oh-so-desired peace.