Eurobeat and BL enjoyer*✧ ✰ ｡*

An unknown amount of time passes by.

Soon, the blonde wakes up while groaning. Even so, Goeniko’s head feels so heavy and aching that it could explode at any moment.

Whatever this place is, even the mild breeze gives her goosebumps all over her skin, making her shiver and rub her arms.

After she sits up and holds her aching head while leaning on her elbow, Goeniko looks around.

Judging from her surroundings alone, she might be in an old, probably abandoned, temple whose walls reflect a weak orange flame.

The blonde feels uneasy as she notices she lies from what appears a sacrificial table and is dressed in an unfamiliar yet oddly recognizable blue military-style outfit.

As she examines the room more closely, she notices eight enormous, dark stone snakes decorating the walls, and their bare fangs loom over her. She widens her big blue eyes and comments uncertainly. “Just what in the name of-, is this place?”

Suddenly, she is startled by one after another, and the snakes’ eyes lighten up with tiny purple flames.

A second later, she shakily closes her eyes and covers her head as another powerful wave of headache hits her.

Meanwhile, all the poor maiden can do is shamelessly whimper as the various flashbacks of the deep past rush to her mind.

The first one is about an enormous eight-headed with eight tails snake of the size of eight valleys and eight hills.

Apparently, the legendary creature is fighting back against a divine being wielding a powerful sword that cuts half of its limbs.

At that moment, Goeniko can feel the serpent’s pure fury and hatred after being tricked by his enemy.

Despite that, after a hard-fought battle, the eight-headed snake greets its demise.

Another flashback starts similarly.

However, this time, it is a beautiful woman with long white hair and a white robe dealing with three enemies.

Suddenly, the blonde opens her eyes and breathes deeply, while she can hear her heartbeat ringing inside her head upon noticing a strangely familiar tattoo on this woman’s chest.

More so, when she gathers her remaining strength to unleash a finishing strike, that tattoo on her body glows in white.

At that moment, Goeniko senses that this battle’s outcome is the same as the previous one.

In the last vision, the blue-eyed nun is in awe at seeing one fluffy silver-haired male fighting against three people with similar auras to the previous ones.

After all, he looks like a perfect copy of the albino grass snake in his human form.

More importantly, he has a god-like figure, short, fluffy hair, and the same tattoo pattern on his chest and abs. It even glows in the same light as the woman she saw earlier.

Suddenly, the blonde gets on her knees and bends down while grasping around her throat.

Meanwhile, Goeniko desperately fights for a single gulp of fresh hair and shakily tries to remove the invisible threat.

Unfortunately, she slowly loses the battle while her face twists in pain, and feeling the sharp claws sinking into her burning neck.

In the current flashback, that man is in the air and choked by some redhead with murderous intentions for this entity.

Lastly, the brunette aids him by sending a wave of orange flame into his back to finish the divine entity.

Suddenly, the last vision is cut off, and Goeniko is released from the suffering.

A second later, without a second thought, she speaks up one certain name in a quiet, weak voice. “… Orochi-sama…”

After carefully brushing her neck and cheeks, the blue-eyed nun can feel her smooth skin, which has no bruises. Although, her cheeks were wet from the tears when she was choked.

“What is just my imagination? What I have just saw?” the blonde whispers in disbelief.

Yet, she gets alerted upon hearing one divine creature’s calm voice. “Did you call me?”

Apparently, it’s none other than the fluffy silver-haired male.

“It’s been a while and looks like your memory is returning.” He comments while smirking.

When Goeniko sits on the edge of the sacrificial altar, she shrugs as this deity approaches her.

After Orochi gets close to her, he softens his gaze. “You do not need to fear me.”

For sure, his voice strangely puts her at ease, and she lowers her shoulders.

The preserved nun takes a step closer while holding her chest. “Were you the one who let me see these visions?”

Orochi places his palm on her cheek. “Perhaps so. Have you not figured out yet?”

The sudden realization shocks the blonde. All she can do is whisper in disbelief. “Wait… Could it be - you are the same eight-headed snake I saw earlier?”

For now, Orochi only nods and explains in a calm tone. “Do you not understand yet? It’s one of your first ancestors that raised me and taught me a lot about Gaia.”

Soon, Orochi’s face darkens. “As time went on, these pesky parasites who call themselves humans turned their backs to the gods and not only they disrespected but abused my precious Gaia. Of course, I had to punish these pathetic worms and kill them all.”

Meanwhile, Goeniko only carefully listens to the proud divine deity. “However, your ancestors step in and intrigued me by offering me their finest wine and a sacrifice once per year. For years, I was satisfied and these pathetic creatures feared me. Even if they disobeyed me, I would destroy a village or two to remind their place.”

After a brief pause, he adds. “Unfortunately, the gods sent that cursed Susanoo to do all the dirty work to get rid of me. If I only knew that something was off about that generous offer of sake, I would not fall for his trap and I could have crushed him like any other human who dared to challenge me. However, I regained my consciousness too late, and I stood no chance against him.”

At that moment, Goeniko turns her head and lowers her gaze.

After noticing the gloomy maiden, the fluffy silver-haired male gently tilts her chin and exhales. “You should not blame yourself. Your ancestors never betrayed me and served me well. They even got a cult of followers that worshiped me. Besides, I only lost my body after that fateful battle.”

A second later, he gives a comforting smile. “As years have passed, I finally found a suitable host that could contain my soul without breaking it. However, this time, the heirs of Kusanagi, Yasakani and Yata wanted to stop me. Even with limitations of the human body I had, we still had a long, but a great fight, even if I was defeated again.”

After briefly closing his eyes, Orochi confesses with a satisfied look. “Yet, a year hasn’t passed, and I was greeted with a rather unexpected turn of events. Apparently, Yasakani’s jealousy has brought him to my shrine. At first, I ignored that weak-willed man, but he was too stubborn, and his request piqued my curiosity. I granted him a grain of my power for him and his descendants, giving up their family name. Thus, the day when once known Yasakani flame became purple, was the beginning of the Kusanagi and Yagami clans becoming sworn enemies.”

Lastly, he adds. “Centuries have passed. And the Hakkesshus has finally broken the seal. Unfortunately, even if I forced Yagami to awake and fulfil his mission to kill the Kusanagi’s heir, he has failed miserably. Even after I got resurrected and had another battle against the recent generation of the Sacred Treasures, I was sealed again.”

When the blonde finishes listening to Orochi’s story, she still has a lot of unanswered questions.

Despite that, she widens her big blue eyes and gives a questioning look while supporting her chin. “Wait… Don’t tell me… That animal fight I saw before meeting you - was it also your fight against these bad people?”

Meanwhile, the divine entity slowly blinks and nods.

Goeniko places her palms on his chest and gently pushes him away before stepping back.

While she keeps her hand close to her heart, she asks without removing her eyes from Orochi. “I don’t understand… How can you be sure that I am from the same clan you mentioned? What if you are mistaking me for someone else?”

“Then, raise your palm while aiming at any of these statues.” The silver-haired male orders.

For a second, Goeniko doubts this man’s intentions. Yet, she straightens her back and does what she has to do.

Suddenly, she feels the gush of wind running through her palm and fingertips before releasing it.

A second later, one of the snake’s flames dimmed away.

It surprises Goeniko, but it feels so natural for her as it always has been with her.

Meanwhile, Orochi keeps a satisfied look on his face while crossing his arms and resting his head on his fingers. “I knew I was right. You are a descendant of the Hakkesshu clan, after all.”

A couple of moments later, he wraps his arms around his partner and closes his eyes.

At that moment, Goeniko feels the heat rushing to her cheeks and narrows her gaze as one arm pulls her into a tighter hug while another strokes her head.

Soon, Orochi comments in a soft tone. “It seems that no matter for how long the time has separated us, the fate has finally brought us together. … As it should be. However, I’ll make sure that you won’t need to suffer any longer.”

Meanwhile, the blonde silently exhales and closes her eyes while resting her head against her adored person’s chest.

After a while, the blonde pushes him away gently, placing her palms on his chest and keeping her demanding eyes on him. “Then there is something I need to do first.”

When Orochi releases her from the tender embrace, Goeniko lowers herself to one knee, her head bowed in reverence. “I, Goeniko of the Hakkesshu clan, offering you my body, heart and soul as my humble sign of loyalty to you. From this moment forward, I swear to protect you with all that I am. No harm shall befall you as long as I draw breath. Your enemies shall become mine, and your battles, my own.”

After she lifts her head, she adds with a firm determination in her voice. “All I ever wish is for being like you and be guided by you. So, please, lead me in that way of being.”

For now, Orochi lowers his hand and brings it to the preserved nun.

Thus, without hesitation, Goeniko takes it into her palms and brings it to her cheek. Upon nuzzling it, she closes her loving eyes.

The divine being is satisfied and approves the blonde’s genial vow. “How fitting of you. Very well. Rise, Goeniko. Your loyalty and strength shall not go unnoticed. Together, we shall navigate the currents of fate, and you shall be an extension of my will in this world.”

In the end, Goeniko lands a soft kiss on his palm before allowing him to help her to stand up.

Thus, the two figures, god and mortal, stood united in their destiny, ready to face whatever challenges awaited them in this otherworldly realm.

As the last echoes of their vows lingered in the air, the sacred flames continued to dance, casting a warm glow on the ancient temple that had witnessed the intertwining of their fates.

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.

It is only the beginning of the new day. However, for someone, it’s already ruined. The redhead would have slept for a little more if it wasn’t for one tiny detail - it is so chill.

While he lies on the left side, he tries to grab the blanket from behind. But no matter where he lands his hand, he cannot find it.

Suddenly, Iori widens his eyes as he feels grabbing something along with the missing blanket.

Without looking back, his hand continues to grope whoever that slightly moving thing is. More so, it lets out sweet groaning noises too! That voice behind Yagami’s back is familiar, and he doesn’t like this at all.

The irritated redhead rolls to his other side to see who is this pesky fellow who ruined his not even started day.

To his surprise, it is someone sleeping wrapped in a blanket cocoon. With no further ado, Iori destroys it by tossing the blanket with a sudden move.

Unfortunately, instead of a pretty butterfly or moth, the Kusanagi, who wears a blue pajama, curled into a ball. That intruder even dares to sleep like a kitten.

Suddenly, the redhead gets alerted and checks himself. Yet, he feels relieved that all his clothes are on him and not missing.

‘‘That fucking brat better not have done anything weird. Otherwise, there will be one Kusanagi less on this Earth.’’ Or so, the redhead wonders as he observes the impostor.

Meanwhile, the brunette slowly opens his eyes and complains in a sleepy voice ‘‘What’s your problem, huh? Is it morning already? Just give me five more minutes, you idiot. Oh, and pass me a blanket. It’s cold, you know~’’.

After such demands, the Kusanagi’s heir delightfully closes his eyes and goes back to sleep.

However, Iori has other plans for his not so lovely guest. When Yagami leaves the bed, he heads to the kitchen.

When the redhead returns with a glass of water, he exhales and addresses Kyo ‘‘So, you’re going to play like this…’’.

After he gets close to the bedside, he splashes the ice-cold water on the insolent Kusanagi.

Suddenly, the brunette rises from his slumber and lets out his wrath ‘‘What the fuck is that all about!? Are you out of your fucking mind? Or are you asking for problems? You better prepare yourself, you fucking asshole! ‘Cos when I get you… I… I… You better ask for mercy now!’’.

While Kyo widens his eyes and roughly breathes, he wipes his face.

Yet, such an intimidating and furious gaze doesn’t affect the redhead, who stares indifferently.

After a brief pause, Yagami replies in a strict tone ‘‘Who said that you are allowed to do what you want? Did you forget your place? If so, I’ll gladly remind you.’’.

‘‘ ‘‘Who?’’ he asks… Don’t tell me what to do! Besides, have you forgotten who was the first one who brought me here and took care of me?’’ The Kusanagi indignantly asks his rival without removing his eyes from him.

Iori only raises his eyebrow ‘‘What are you talking about?’’.

For some reason, Yagami’s question surprises the brunette, and turns his head away from the redhead.

After Kyo returns his gaze, he replies in a nearly disappointed voice ‘‘Anyway, have thought that I gonna sleep together with that stupid clone just because you told me?’’.

Lastly, the brunette defends himself ‘‘Dunno if that would make you feel better. Listen, I did nothing wrong with you! All I did is sleep next to you if that is why you are mad. Besides, the previous times you didn’t seem to mind it even after… Well, you know what I’m talking about, right?’’.

Yagami cannot understand why the brunette makes such innocent eyes.

‘Is that fool mocks me? What a hell he tries to achieve?’ Iori wonders. In the end, he facepalms and sighs ‘‘Why are you doing this?’’.

Kyo continues explaining while keeping his hand on his chest ‘‘It’s not my fault that cheapskate kicked me off the couch. He does not know with whom he messes around, does he? Even for a clone, he acts too arrogant when he is sleeping.’’.

As the brunette grasps his chest, he complains ‘‘That stupid bastard… I’ll show him what happens when someone messes with me!’’. Lastly, he furrows his eyebrows and murmurs something.

However, Yagami’s patience is almost gone. Instead of throwing away the intruder, Iori replies in an exhausted voice ‘‘Sure thing. Do as you please. But for now, we need to prepare for today’s trip.’’.

Kyo gives the questioning stare at the redhead and asks ‘‘What do you mean by that? Did you plan anything?’’.

Iori briefly answers ‘‘You’ll see. But first, wake up your twin. Then, I’ll explain the rest in the living room.’’.

Even if the brunette does not know about what’s inside Yagami’s head, yet, he is ready to do anything to prove that he is the original one. Perhaps that will help Iori realize he made a big mistake by aiding someone whom he hates more than anything.

But for now, Kyo leaves the redhead alone in the bedroom.

Some time passed. The older brunette reaches the couch where his look-alike is deeply asleep. After he gets in front of the younger Kusanagi, Kyo roughly grabs him by the shoulders and shakes him ‘‘Oi, wake up, you lazy-ass! You can sleep all you want when you’re dead.’’.

However, the brunette in brown pajama turns away and hides under the blanket while indignantly replying ‘‘I got it! Just go away, you stupid bastard!’’.

The older Kyo backfires with a mocking tone while cracking his knuckles ‘‘Tsk, do as you please. But don’t blame me if you’ll get hurt. After all, I was kind enough to warn you~’’.

Suddenly, the Kusanagi in blue feels alerted by the menacing aura behind him. Once he turns around, he notices Iori, who is dressed in his casual clothes.

Yet, the brunette addresses him ‘‘Don’t stare at me like that! I tried to wake him up nicely, but that idiot ignores me.’’.

Iori only rolls his eyes and approaches the other Kusanagi while the older Kyo delightfully smiles.

After the redhead removes the blanket, he complains to the younger twin ‘‘Why do you have to act like this? I don’t know why did you team up against me. But once I figure it out, one of you will have an eternal rest while the other one will pay for pissing me off.’’.

As the younger brunette faces him like a kitten who got scolded for no reason, Yagami asks him ‘‘Do you realize that you’re making this more difficult for yourself? So, stop playing around.’’.

Just as Iori turns around and is about to leave, he widens his eyes when the younger Kusanagi holds into his sleeve.

After turning around, he notices Kyo making innocent eyes while asking in an embarrassed tone ‘‘Um, I know it is a weird thing, but could you lend me your clothes?’’.

Meanwhile, the older Kusanagi is not pleased by his clone’s behavior, nor how he poorly attempts to seduce Iori. The Kyo in blue scolds his replica ‘‘Oi! Do not act like that, you cheapskate. Yagami is maybe dumb, but not that he would fall for your tricks, clone. One wrong move and I’ll remind your place.’’.

When he rolls his pajama sleeve, he raises his hand and ignites it. In the end, the bright orange flame dancing on the older Kyo’s palm is enough to provoke a so-called replica.

After the younger brunette pushes Yagami aside, he repeats the same movement as his opponent. Lastly, both cannot remove their eyes from each other while impatiently waiting for when one of them will make the first move.

Meanwhile, Iori cannot decide if he should smack these fools or step back and observe the view in front of him.

Besides, it is a lifetime chance to see how Kyo would fight someone who looks like him. Maybe it will help to figure out which of these Kusanagi is real and which is just a fine actor.

On the other hand, Yagami’s apartment may not survive such a deadly battle, and he would have nowhere to go. Yet, since both Kyos are too busy and ignore Iori’s presence, he can always step in and knock them out.

Meanwhile, the older brunette makes the first move by mocking his enemy ‘‘What’s wrong? Are you scared that you cannot handle the original? Don’t worry, I may be gentle this time, and I’ll go easy on you if you beg me~’’.

However, the younger Kyo backfires in the same way ‘‘Ooh, can you see how am I shaking, you third-rate cosplayer? Where did you learn this cheap trick? Even Shingo can make a better flame than you~’’.

Suddenly, the other Kusanagi widens his eyes and frowns. After crushing the flame on his palm, Kyo in blue cockily approaches his opponent and declares to him ‘‘Then, don’t blame if you get burned, punk.’’.

Lastly, the younger brunette dims his flame and backfires ‘‘Bring it on!’’.

However, before the match begins, Iori interrupts them ‘‘Just a quick reminder before you plan to do anything else. If you destroy anything in this house, you will need to pay for it.’’.

The younger Kyo only dumbfounded stares at Yagami ‘‘What are you talking about? Do I look like I’m made of money?’’.

‘‘That’s none of my problems. If you know how to cause trouble, then you should also like to take responsibility for it.’’ The redhead briefly answers in a serious tone.

When Iori notices how the other Kusanagi smiles like an idiot, he explains ‘‘What’s so funny? This rule also applies to you. Because you must do the house chores until you pay the debt.’’.

Yet, the older brunette is not satisfied with such a decision. Once Kyo is in blue boldly approaches Iori and places his hand on the redhead’s shoulder, he speaks up ‘‘What’s your goddamn problem? If you want to hire a maid, do so. Listen, you can use that cheap clone as your slave. Besides, he is not even a human. So, you don’t need to treat him as one.’’.

After he swooshes his hair, he gives a mocking gaze ‘‘Anyway, what else oh-so-great Yagami-sama will think? No, no. Don’t tell me ‘cos I know. How about you add the maid outfit as the punishment and serve all master Iori’s needs?’’.

However, Iori doesn’t give in to the Kusanagi’s provocation. When the redhead takes a step back, he backfires in an annoyed voice ‘‘If you are into this, go ahead. But you need to buy it on your own and make sure that I won’t see you wearing it.’’.

Unfortunately, Kyo’s smug face is gone, and he gets bewildered by such an answer ‘‘What the fuck?… Oi, like hell, I was serious! You can keep your weird fetishes to yourself, you stupid freak!’’.

Lastly, before leaving, the older brunette turns his face towards Yagami, and ignites his middle finger ‘‘Oh, and screw you.’’.

An hour passes. After both Kyos dress up and are ready, Iori joins them on the couch. Yet, before saying anything else, the redhead notices how the older Kusanagi doesn’t hide his jealousy towards his look-alike.

‘For the love of the, why he cares so much that I lend that stupid brat my clothes.’ Yagami wonders as he crosses his legs and avoids looking at the other Kyo too much. Besides, Iori didn’t know that his outfit was too big for the younger brunette.

However, his further thoughts are interrupted by the mentioned Kusanagi asking in an innocent tone ‘‘Hey, Yagami, why did you bring us here? Do you have planned anything?’’.

Iori tries his best to keep his poker face and replies in a serious tone ‘‘We’re going on a long trip to find out which one of you is the real Kyo and who is not. Lucky for you two, there is one annoying woman who might know the answer.’’.

No matter how the Yagami doesn’t want to visit that ebony-haired woman, he has no other choice and relies on her help.

Besides, eventually, Kagura would force them to team up because of one old snake, who might be the oh-so-scary threat.

Perhaps, Orochi is not that bad compared to having two Kusanagi and babysitting them. However, as soon as Iori gets rid of his new residents, he may finally have his desired peace.

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.

Meanwhile, the Kusanagi heir occupies the shower room, and Iori sits back and relaxes. After all, there isn’t much he can do about such an unexpected guest.

So, after making himself a cup of coffee, the redhead chills out on the couch for the rest of the evening.

Unfortunately, he does not know about the new incoming threat, who is on his way to disturbing poor Yagami.

Speaking of the devil, the younger brunette makes his way to the door of Iori’s apartment. It wasn’t a simple journey because of one third-rated cosplayer assaulting him. Despite that, Kyo’s desire to have his revenge against the impostor and beat answers from Iori is stronger. More so, it helped to forget about the pain.

For now, the Kusanagi’s heir clenches his palm into a fist and knocks on the door as hard as he can.

Meanwhile, the redhead nearly spills the coffee on himself after hearing the sudden banging on his door. More so, a familiar voice yells his name.

‘‘How did he get there? A few minutes ago, he went to the shower, and now he is behind the door! How?! Why? That stupid fool…’’ Iori complains as he stands up and is about to check whether or not he is going insane.

After reaching the door, the redhead addresses whoever is banging and shouting at the doorstep ‘‘Will you stop breaking the door, you idiot!’’.

Finally, the person behind the door shuts up. However, when Iori opens the door, he feels how accidentally someone’s fist touches his chest.

Yagami’s annoyed gaze only follows to see the owner of this fist resting in between his pectoral muscles.

Once Iori’s and Kyo’s eyes meet, the brunette instantly with-draws his palm. Yet, both remain silent.

There is no mistake - it is the Kusanagi’s heir. However, the brunette suddenly avoids facing his rival while clenching his hands into the fists. More so, the redhead notices the bruises on Kyo.

‘Just what in the world happened to him?’ Yagami wonders.

Secondly, the Kusanagi also wears an entirely different outfit. Currently, he wears a pair of jeans, a black shirt, and a white jacket. These clothes look in a worse condition than the ones which Iori saw earlier.

In the end, the redhead is the one who breaks the awkward silence between them ‘‘How did you get here?’’.

Kyo backfires in an indignant tone ‘‘How? Of course, on foot, you dumbass! Don’t just stand here. Will let me in or not? I don’t have any time to waste.’’. For sure, the brunette just impatiently stares and waits to be invited.

‘First, he stormed in with no permission, and now he acts like this. What a hell is wrong with him today?’ Iori wonders while facepalming. In the end, he lets his rival inside his apartment.

As soon as Kyo is inside, he heads toward the couch. He doesn’t care what Iori thinks about him because he wants to rest his injured leg.

For sure, the way how Kusanagi strangely walks only makes him more suspicious.

Iori doesn’t like a bit the way how the brunette is limping while making sure that his left leg won’t be touching his right one. More so, it soaks one shank of his jeans in some sort of dark liquid. For now, the redhead doesn’t say a single word and follows his unexpected guest.

As the redhead joins on the couch Kyo, the brunette frowns and turns his head away from him.

However, Yagami remains silent as well and continues to observe the Kusanagi. He cannot understand for what reason acts like this? What does he try to achieve? If he wants to piss off the redhead, then he did it.

More so, Kyo’s mood swing is getting on Iori’s nerves. That’s why the redhead breaks the silence between them again.

Just as he opens his mouth, the brunette interrupts him ‘‘Listen, I know what you are thinking, but I don’t care. I’m not planning to leave. At least, not until you’ll apologize for what you have done, you fucking idiot!’’.

That’s it! It’s the last drop of Iori’s patience.

“You were asking for this!” The redhead comments as he aggressively pushes the Kusanagi down on the couch.

Without even letting Kyo react, Yagami gets on top of him. Then Iori lifts Kyo’s wrists above his head by his hand while another one roughly grasps the brunette’s throat.

As the redhead grinds his teeth, he growls ‘‘I had enough of this! Not only do you storm in here and act arrogant brat, but you have the guts to blame me for your goddamn problems… Why don’t you just lie here while I’ll finish you up?’’.

Iori could even kill him with his the wild beast’s gaze alone.

Despite being in such a position, Kyo refuses to give up. As the brunette furrows his eyebrows, he tries to shake off the redhead.

Unfortunately, he fails. More importantly, the brunette’s legs violently touch.

Therefore, it reminds Kyo about his injured left shank. For now, all he can do is roughly breathe and quietly whimper.

Such an unexpected reaction makes Yagami crack a smile and chuckle.

After Iori loosens his grasp around Kyo’s throat, he removes that hand and corners the brunette. Lastly, he addresses the Kusanagi in a nearly mocking tone ‘‘What’s the matter, Kyo! I barely did anything, and you’re already like this.’’.

Just when the redhead is about to declare his victory, the Kusanagi uses his chance to escape. As the brunette keeps eye contact with Iori, he crawls up by using his elbows and right leg.

After Kyo closes his eyes, he sends a side-kick to Yagami’s left side.

However, when he thinks that he get rid of the redhead, Iori tightly holds into Kyo. And thus, both land on the floor.

Kyo lies on top of him and catches his breath yet, he tries to get up. Unfortunately, it’s easier to say than to do.

As the brunette lifts himself for a moment, he falls again. However, Kyo’s behavior annoys Iori.

That’s it! Yagami can’t just let the brunette make fun of him any longer. He’ll finish him right here, right now!

After the redhead hustles Kyo away, he stands up and observes the brunette struggling yet shielding his left shank. Lastly, the more he stares at the brunette, the more he doesn’t understand him. For sure, that only angers him further.

Suddenly, Iori squats near Kyo and grabs his left shank while ignoring the brunette’s groaning and the painful expression on his face. Lastly, the redhead takes a better look at the limb which he holds.

After the redhead rolls up the left shank of the jeans, he silently stares at the burn on Kyo’s leg. Lastly, he speaks up with a pure rage in his voice ‘‘Who the fuck did this?! Why the hell did you let this happen?’’.

For the moment, even Kyo fears that Iori will tear his leg. Suddenly, he widens his eyes when he feels how such an outrageous man’s hands are shaking. Yet, it’s still surprising to hear the redhead growling and whimpering like a scared wolf.

Nevertheless, the brunette ignores Yagami’s emotional reaction while backfiring ‘‘Hmph! I’m glad that you finally realized to ask, you moron. However, you should know better. Because this time, you’ve gone too far, Yagami. And I won’t forgive you for this. So, your fake whining won’t trick me. Not only you are a coward, but a cowardly backstabber! Your buddy attacked me like a fucking coward from behind. Hell, not sure where you find types like this. Perhaps nasty types stick together, huh? Whatever… Not only that bastard rip-offs my style, but somehow he imitated my flames!’’.

Instead of unleashing his rage, Iori looks unaffected by the Kusanagi’s words and gives a serious gaze. After carefully lowering Kyo’s leg, he remains still for a moment.

Suddenly, Yagami holds Kyo by his shirt and harshly slaps his cheek. The brunette only dumbfounded stares at Iori, who indignantly stares at him.

After the redhead deeply exhales and facepalms, he addresses the Kusanagi in a disappointed voice ‘‘What is wrong with you? Are you sure that you didn’t fall and hit your head? Not so long time ago, you claimed you defeated someone. But now, you say that someone beat the shit out of you. Make your goddamn mind up already.’’.

As Iori stands up and puts his hands in his pants pockets, he adds ‘‘Just make sure that you’ll remove your pants before I return, got it?’’.

For sure, his rival’s request is more shocking than getting silenced by Yagami’s palm. All he can do is stare at him while rubbing his hurt cheek.

More importantly, Yagami is not a man who would lightheartedly joke about things like this. When Kyo is about to object, he notices that Iori is gone.

In the end, the brunette still doubts whether he should listen to what Yagami asked him to do. On the other hand, who knows what Iori could do to him if he won’t behave himself? Lastly, he lowers his head while waiting for the redhead.

It was like any ordinary day, and nothing stood out. Everything seems to be peaceful, perhaps a little too much.

However, there is no reason to worry about it. After all, all the enemies are defeated, and nothing threatens the temporal peace before the big fight.

More so, everything is back to normal, like nothing happened in the first place.

That’s why it is also a good time to take a break and relax. Or so, Kyo thinks to himself without even having the slightest idea about what kind of foe awaits him just around the corner.

Perhaps, the new opponent might be a more intimidating and fearsome, who could surpass the legendary rumored Orochi.

But for now, the exam session is over too. So, after celebrating such an occasion with good friends, the brunette will take oh-so-deserved rest.

A week has passed. It is past noon, and today Kyo plans to hang out with his disciple at the local arcade. Besides, it would be something refreshing after the routine of daily training.

Besides, this is where these two can compete as equals to all their heart’s content and have a good time together.

So, with a few clanking coins in his pocket and having the big hopes that this time he’ll finally defeat Shingo and will declare his victory, Kyo is on the way to the destination place.

However, while the little flame sparkles in his eyes because of the hype to win, the Kusanagi heir’s self-awareness lowers, and forgets to keep his guard.

After a couple of minutes of casually taking a stroll, the brunette got noticed by the mysterious person, who takes interest in him.

Yet, that young man looks like the perfect imitation of the Kusanagi’s heir. Hell, one might mistake him for Kyo’s twin. The only difference is their outfit. Instead of the usual high-school uniform, he wears a black shirt, white jacket, and pair of blue jeans.

Unfortunately, he doesn’t look so happy seeing the Kyo. Contrary, the older brunette gets more suspicious as he observes the Kusanagi.

‘I though that all clones were dismissed, either killed. But how this one managed to survive? Hmm… In any case, I cannot allow him to wander alone in the city and cause more problems. Who knows what this cheapskate could possibly do?’ Kyo’s look-alike wonders as he silently stalks his new victim.

‘Maybe I should follow this fellow and beat answers out of him.’ The older brunette thinks as he continues to follow the Kusanagi.

As Kyo is close to the darker alley, the older young man whispers and cracks a slightly sadistic smile on his face ‘‘Now I got you, you fiend.’’. Finally, it’s time to act.

After getting close enough, he pushes the Kusanagi deep into the dark alley. As his victim falls to the ground, he can hear the groaning noises.

While Kyo’s face grimaces in pain, he tries to get up and see the person who dared to attack him.

Once he lifts his head, he cannot move even a single muscle of his body. Surely, it is such a shocking view in front of him. At the moment, all he can do is speak up in a barely hearable voice ‘‘What a -’’.

However, he gets interrupted by the angered voice, which belongs to his spitting image ‘‘Just try to do anything funny, and I’ll roast you at the same spot, got it?’’.

While Kyo’s look-alike is fixing up his black biker gloves, he looks down at him with a piercing look.

After a brief pause, he continues in the same tone ‘‘However, you still owe me a couple of questions, pal.’’.

Suddenly, the surprise on Kyo’s face is gone, and he cracks a mocking smile. Unfortunately, as he tries to stand up, his attempt is utterly crushed by the older brunette stepping with his foot on his back.

Lastly, he makes sure that the supposed-to-be clone won’t escape so easily.

Despite being in such a position, the Kusanagi heir refuses to show any signs of being defeated. Finally, he addresses his opponent in an innocent tone ‘‘I think you’ve mistaken me for someone else. Not only do you have the guts to cowardly attack me from behind, but also you poorly imitate my style… You know, now, you are pissing me off. So, I’ll make you pay for that, you third rate cosplayer.’’.

Surely, such a reply piques the older brunette’s interest. After removing the foot from Kyo’s back, he squats near the Kusanagi’s face ‘‘Hoo~ You don’t need to be jealous because of my handsomeness. Even as a clone, you sure have a pretty annoying attitude, and that’s why-’’.

Suddenly, Kyo’s thrown punch into his face shuts him down. Of course, such an attack nearly makes the other young man lose his balance and land on the trash bag.

The Kusanagi only delightfully observes how this fellow gives him a hateful look as he rubs his wounded cheek. After cracking his knuckles, the younger brunette laughs at his opponent ‘‘Hehe~ How do you like that? However, this is only the beginning. I’ll teach you what happens when someone messes with me, pal.’’.

After climbing on top of his opponent, Kyo pins him down. When the brunette moves his hand close to his perfect image’s face, Kyo comments ‘‘You may look like me. But no matter how hard you’ll try, you can’t copy this, buddy.’’. Lastly, the Kusanagi ignites his other palm.

However, the little flame dancing on the brunette’s hand doesn’t impress his copycat, who replies in a chill tone while cracking a mocking smile ‘‘That’s it? Hmph! You sure never stop giving me the trouble.’’.

  Just before the younger brunette opens his mouth, he receives a knee strike into his stomach. Surely, it was enough for Kyo to fall on his back.

After his look-alike stands up, he approaches his victim and observes how it groans in pain. Once again, he bends down, and when he grabs Kyo’s t-shirt he mocks his opponent ‘‘What’s the matter? Where is that fighting spirit gone?’’.

Just before continuing his speech, the older brunette looks at himself. Unfortunately, he is not very pleased. One thing is when such a cheapskate shows arrogance. Also, his jacket and jeans are covered in dirt.

As he furrows his eyebrows, Kyo’s replica nearly scolds his opponent ‘‘Tsk, look what you have done? Not only because of you, my reputation is ruined, but now… Urgh, you leave me no other choice, pal…’’.

While the older Kusanagi is getting blinded by his rage, he lets out his all frustrations on this supposed-to-be pesky clone. He simply desired to make that he’ll pay for everything that he and the rest of these bastards had done to him.

After he slams Kyo against the ground, he sits on top of the younger brunette and aggressively pins his hands.

At first, the slightly older fellow feels the awful urge to ignite his palm and instantly finish what he thinks is nothing more than a disgusting homunculus. However, the moment their eyes meet, the older brunette regrets his decision and even feels terrified of nearly becoming as bad as these scientists.

The brunette only spits out the pitiful words “Shit...”.

Yet, instead of killing his opponent, he shows mercy for it.

Suddenly, Kyo widens his eyes as his copycat slides his hand under the t-shirt. Soon enough, as the fellow on top of him starts to roughly lift his t-shirt, the Kusanagi stares at him with anger and disgust.

While Kyo tries to shake off his opponent, he growls at his opponent ‘‘You perverted freak! You fucking rapist! Get off me! Don’t you think you would get away so easily? Just you wait... I’ll beat the shit out of you, you disgusting freak!’’.

Despite that such foul language and threats, the brunette isn’t affected. As Kusanagi’s look-alike removes the top clothing, he replies in an irritated voice ‘‘As a clone, you sure talk helluva a lot. For sure, these bastards sure had too much spare time by creating someone like you-’’.

However, Kyo interrupts this young man’s speech ‘‘Will you ever stop with that ‘clone’ bullshit? I don’t know what is your fucking problem, but I’m done with it. And ain’t gonna listen any more of that, you sicko!’’.

Suddenly, the Kusanagi sends the side-kick into the impostor’s face.

Unfortunately, the Kusanagi’s look-alike grabs Kyo’s leg before the very last second of impact, and his palm bursts into the exploding fire. Suddenly, the Kusanagi lets out an agonizing scream as he feels the sudden wave of burning pain sent through his leg.

While the younger brunette’s face is twisting in pain, Kyo’s replica is not affected at all. Lastly, as he observes the suffering Kusanagi, he declares ‘‘I’ll show you the real power of Kusanagi clan, scum!’’.

A good half hour passes by. After Kyo’s look-alike claims his victory over his opponent, he removes the dust from his new outfit. That’s right, even if he took away the ‘ filthy clone’s ‘ clothes, it is better than nothing. More so, the older brunette has a sudden nostalgia for wearing these clothes.

Yet, he takes one more last look at the Kusanagi, who is miserably curling in pain while roughly panting. After the older brunette picks up his former clothes, he throws them at the miserable creature in front of him.

Lastly, he addresses Kyo in a gloomy tone ‘‘It’s not your fault that these sick scientists gave you a life… Anyway, you better hope that Yagami won’t find you or else it won’t end well.’’.

After the older brunette bids a farewell without bothering to look back, he leaves while wondering ‘It’s been a while since the last time I saw that idiot… Hmm, maybe paying a little visit won’t hurt anyone.’.

Lastly, Kyo is left alone – wounded, humiliated, wriggling in pain with his injured leg, and just being tired from this encounter.

Soon enough, he tries to stand up and cover himself while speaking up ‘‘Shit… What the hell is wrong with that guy? More importantly, what kind of connection does he has with Yagami? In any case, I have to hurry or else, who knows how this is gonna end? That bastard surely asks for the trouble. And, Yagami, you better have a better explanation or else...’’.

After a while, he finally put the left clothes on and headed toward one redhead’s apartment. While he ignores the pain in his left leg, Kyo hopes to beat answers out of Iori.

Meanwhile, minute after minute slowly becomes a couple of hours of waiting. Yet, Shingo still naively believes that his precious mentor will show up.

However, no matter how long he waits – still nothing. Maybe Kusanagi-san once again forgot about their meeting, and he minds his own business. Or so, Yabuki thinks while stubbornly waiting for a little longer.

In the end, it is already late afternoon, and he goes home feeling upset and disappointed about how his long-planned hanging out with his idol is canceled.

Notes:

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The commission art was made by Asaameshin.
Thank You so much for accepting this self-indulgent request and letting to use as cover for this story!
It looks so nice~
And hopefully, that you are fine that it is used on this one-shot.
Anyway, I'm looking forward to use your service again!(✺ᵔ‿ᵔ✺)
So, go and check this artist's Twitter : https://twitter.com/asaameshin
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