Here we go~ I tried making it longer although it's still shorter than the first chapter. AND YUSH, ACTION (/owo)/

And don't worry, it might be angst, but I'll most likely have a happy ending. Probably.

Enjoy~

Recap:

So you'll help." It wasn't a question, it was a statement.

"I guess I have no choice. Otherwise there is a chance that the human race is wiped out." Kuroko answered with a sigh.

Honestly, he was happy in his little home. Why did people have to find those annoying stones?

Akashi stood by the wall of the inside training room, watching everyone. He had to make sure everyone was training like they were supposed to. No one could slack off, not ever since the massacre that hit the city two days ago.

In that time, Akashi had gotten new information thanks to Kuroko. He had taken Kuroko under his custody temporarily for the case. He convinced Kuroko to come with him to Kyoto, promising him more new books, some high places to climb and even fly. The only place Akashi could think of was the police station, in the training yard or room. However, anyone could see him flying above the yard so he had to stay indoors.

It was a hassle just to get Kuroko to Kyoto. He had refused to ride in the car at first, since his wings wouldn't fit unless he folded them. He didn't enjoy folding his wings but he reluctantly agreed when Akashi said that Kyoto was hours away and Kuroko didn't have enough stamina for it. After all, he hasn't flown in years. Only little flutters from rope to rope but nothing more.

It definitely did surprise Akashi a little when Kuroko could actually fly. If a man did have wings, they wouldn't be able to fly no matter how strong because their bodies were too heavy. Kuroko had been born with a lighter body and less organs that wasn't necessary for his body. With a lot of weight taken off, he was able to fly whenever he wished. That was, if he gained more stamina.

Besides that, it's been helpful having Kuroko around. He could tell a lot of information about these stones. He already told him about the powers and prices, but he also told him more. Each stone told different things.

The beast stone, Kuroko liked to call it where one can turn into anything they want, spoke of mostly power. It told tales of ancient warriors that used their power to wipe out armies or take over land.

The ability stone, the one that allows those to have any ability they wish, spoke of trickery. Magic. Illusion. From Light to Darkness, Fire to Ice, it spoke of each advantage but also downfall. It urged the user to pick one while also speaking of other elements. It ended up confusing most who get close.

The last one, the weaponry stone, spoke of strategy and weapons of course. It told those who got close different strategies they could use with a sniper, such as distance and such. Though they suggested silent weapons, like crossbows or swords, to those the weak of heart or are easily startled.

It seemed confusing just hearing about them alone. Though Kuroko told him what happened if they're combined, all in one place. A regular human mind wouldn't be able to handle all the whispers. That's why so many in the lab went insane because the scientists did not realize that when together, the stones are dangerous. Akashi had asked Kuroko if he was affected by the stones when they were combined but he didn't get an answer. He didn't push it after that.

Instead, he asked different things about Kuroko. He found out that Kuroko did not choose his animal or beast. The stone chose it for him. The stone had told him when he was young that he would need it but when Kuroko asked why the stones did not answer. It was like getting a riddle that you could not answer because there wasn't one. That's what Kuroko said.

Akashi asked him if he was specialized in any weaponry and was surprised by the answer. He expected some kind of distant weapon since he could fly, but instead, he was specialized in a sword. Although crazy enough, Kuroko has never wielded a sword in his life. Once again, the stones told him.

At last, Akashi asked him what his ability was. This time Kuroko looked troubled. He said he didn't know. Akashi doubted it but he supposed he couldn't push Kuroko if he didn't know. Instead, they would focus on training Kuroko, getting his stamina up, and dealing with the case.

"Come on, he pulled the same move on you three times in a row!"

Akashi lifted his head, realizing his mind was wondering through the information he received. There was a big crowd in the middle of the room, some people shouting. Was there a fight? And not for training.

Akashi immediately headed over and despite being one of the shortest there, he easily pushed past everyone. He wasn't surprised to see one of his own officers in the middle, but he wasn't expecting to see Kuroko being the one to keep them down, nor did he expect to see claw marks on the newbie's arms or on one of his cheeks.

"This is not a street fight, everyone get back to training." Akashi ordered. Some moved away but most were curious of what was going to happen to the mutant.

Akashi knew that most of the officers didn't like him. They already witnessed first hand the massacre that happened two days ago with abnormal beings and now they're letting some random person with wings and claws wear their training tank tops and cargo pants as if they belonged. He wouldn't be surprised if that's the reason why a fight started.

"What happened?" Akashi asked as Kuroko moved away from the recruit. He didn't get an answer as the recruit stood up, brushing his clothes off. "Well?"

It was another moment of silence but before Akashi could speak, Kuroko beat him to it.

"Well, someone was looking for a fight and they got one." Kuroko said, making the recruit react.

"Don't talk about it like it's my fault!" They said, glaring at Kuroko.

"Taiga Kagami." Akashi said sternly, getting the recruits attention. "Give me your side of the story."

"I was just training with Tatsuya like normal until he had hit me with his devilish wings. Wouldn't have bothered me," Akashi narrowed his eyes slightly, knowing that it did bother Kagami. "Except the fact that the outside of his wings are hard and sharp."

Akashi saw that Kuroko lightly cuffed Kagami's back with his wing in warning although that made the trainee react, snatching his wing causing the boy to stumble a little. "Enough."

Akashi sighed although he was glad they moved farther apart. "Tetsuya, your side of the story?"

"I won't deny it, I did accidentally bump into him. Although I didn't mean it. And he started coming on to me like he wanted a fight so I decided to show him how." Kuroko said.

"You didn't have to claw me!" Kagami said.

"Its natural for me to use them. Don't be angry just because you lost."

"I said enough!" Akashi said, getting their attention again. He covered his eyes with his hand, shaking his head. Only two days had passed and Kuroko was already getting a bad reputation. He lifted his head, looking at Kagami.

"As punishment, you'll be-"

"Punishment? I'm the one injured here, and I didn't do anything wrong!" Kagami exclaimed.

"From what I saw, the mutant started the fight." Someone from the crowd said and there were some murmurs of agreement. Akashi glanced at all of them, silently telling them to shut up.

"I don't care. And Taiga, even if you are injured, that just proves that you need more training. Tetsuya helped you in fact." Akashi said and Kagami almost rebelled again but one glare from the redhead had the trainee shutting his mouth.

"Now Tetsuya, your punishment." Akashi said, turning to Kuroko. "Battle with me."

There were immediately shouts or whispers that filled the room. No one ever defeated Akashi in training or in a real battle. This mutant was sure to be defeated as well. After all, he only did just begin training to fight although most did notice that he seemed talented at being a fighter. Only Akashi knew why.

It had to be the stones. They gave Kuroko the intelligence he needed on strategy, weapons, trickery, everything. Akashi would need to be careful and on guard the whole time.

"I won't fly at all then." Kuroko said, stepping back. The crowd moved away so they had a lot of room to fight. Even Kagami moved back, wanting to witness the fight.

"Let's make a deal, Tetsuya." Akashi said as he removed his coat. Someone had come to take it so it didn't get in the way of the fight.

"What kind of deal, Akashi-san?" Kuroko asked, watching the redhead closely.

"If I win, you have to train with me and only me. No matter where I say, and almost when I say, unless there is an emergency or you cannot make it." Akashi said and Kuroko narrowed his eyes.

"That isn't all you want." Kuroko said, sending some murmurs throughout the crowd.

"You're getting better at observing, aren't you?" Akashi asked with a chuckle, getting into a fighting stance. Kuroko got into a different stance that was a little strange but it worked for him. He raised his arms, his piercing eyes watching Akashi's every movement. "No, that's not it. If I win, you will live in my home until the case is over."

Kuroko narrowed his eyes and Akashi could tell he didn't enjoy that. "And if I win, I get to go where I want, whenever I want." Akashi knew Kuroko was sensitive about his freedom of choice. "And I get to train with you, whenever and where ever I want." He said with a small smirk, making Akashi return it with amusement.

"I see. Well, it's a deal, Tetsuya. Good luck." Akashi said, raising his arms.

"Good luck." Kuroko murmured, watching Akashi. When he saw Akashi was in a defensive stance, he decided to attack first.

He made sure to watch Akashi closely as he suddenly dashed towards him. He took note of how Akashi moved his leg up, probably planning to throw him off by a kick towards the head.

He swiftly ducked down and aimed his claws towards Akashi's side. This seemed too easily...

Kuroko's eyes widened and his wing instinctively moved, blocking a hit from Akashi's hand. He jumped away, seeing Akashi do the same, shaking his hand. Kuroko noticed a few scratches but that was it. Luckily it wasn't bleeding.

"You have pretty good instincts." Akashi said as Kuroko got into a defensive stance, his wings ready to block.

"You're pretty quick." Kuroko said and Akashi just smirked. This time he dashed forward, showing more speed now than in his attack. It almost surprised Kuroko but he regained focus quickly.

Kuroko caught the fist that Akashi sent at him then another. Surely Akashi wouldn't fall for the same trick twice? His eyes widened when he saw Akashi jump up, pulling him closer by his hands before kicking him in the chest.

He fell back in surprise, his wings preventing him from being hurt in the fall. Kuroko immediately saw Akashi over him, and swiftly swung his leg. It caught Akashi off guard as his legs were swept out from under him. Kuroko got up as he fell and swung his arm, scratching Akashi's side before he fell. It only scratched his shirt and not his side.

Kuroko jumped back as Akashi swiftly got up. It was obvious he wasn't expecting that attack. This time there were no words, neither of them having anything to say. Instead, it was just attacks and blocks from then on.

It went on for a few minutes, both evenly matched. Though it was obvious Kuroko's lack of stamina was kicking in. He was getting tired, his movements slower and less effective. He was more set on defense rather than attack now.

Akashi was still swift but he wasn't strong enough to get past Kuroko's wings. He has been observing them actually. On the inside was a soft, black and leathery feeling. Though on the outside it was hard, probably to protect Kuroko like a shield. His claws were sharp too, easily piercing through skin.

He knew he was going to overwhelm Kuroko if this continued, but he just wouldn't give up. He was so determined, probably wanting his freedom. No, that isn't all that Kuroko wants. He isn't that kind of person. What was it?

Akashi nearly got hit with the end of Kuroko's wing which was sharp, almost like a blade. He ducked just in time before taking a chance. Kuroko didn't have his wings to defend him at the moment and he was wide open. Akashi dashed forward, his shoulder colliding with Kuroko's chest.

Kuroko, unsuspecting, fell back. The wind was knocked out of him which left his mind fuzzy for a few minutes, trying to find out how to react. Unfortunately he already hit the ground.

It had been silent so everyone in the room heard the crack from Kuroko's body when he fell. Akashi immediately became worried. 'That couldn't have been his head, right?'

Kuroko slid a bit from the force but soon stopped. Although he didn't move.

"Is he dead?" One asked after a few moments when there was no movement.

Akashi ignored them and walked towards Kuroko. He just hoped he was alright. One of Kuroko's wings was covering his body although his face was still visible. His eyes were closed and he still wasn't moving. He didn't appear to be bleeding so what was that crack?

Getting an idea, Akashi gently rolled Kuroko onto his back. As he expected, he had slid on his wing. He lifted Kuroko's right wing and one of his hard scales from his wing fell.

'It was his scale that cracked.' Akashi thought as he sighed in relief. But what made Kuroko pass out? He checked Kuroko's pulse just to make sure. It was still beating, a little fast but that was expected from their fight.

'What happened then?' Akashi thought in confusion.

He tilted Kuroko's face, humming softly. He moved his hand towards his closed eyes, being gentle as he carefully opened one of them. He was shocked to see that Kuroko's normal round pupils were changing back and forth from being round to slit, like a cats eye.

'What is happening to him?' Akashi wondered. He noticed the trainees were still watching him.

"Tetsuya is fine. It was his scale that cracked. Now everyone get back to training. And Taiga, I'll give you your punishment later." Akashi said. Only when every one walked away after seeing Akashi's glare, did he pick up Kuroko.

"You should get some rest." Akashi quietly said to Kuroko even though he was asleep. He was honestly a little worried. Why were Kuroko's eyes changing back and forth like that? He supposed he would ask Kuroko if he was alright when he woke up.

Akashi had taken Kuroko to his home which wasn't far from the station. He decided he was done with training for the day and deserved a rest. Of course he was worried about Kuroko and wished he could get him checked out but what could a normal doctor do about a mutated human?

Akashi had decided to be patient. He did his normal chores that he did when he was home. Clean it up a little, make sure everything was working and in place. He wanted to make dinner but he didn't know what Kuroko liked.

Shrugging, Akashi decided to make something anyway. Maybe just something small for himself and when Kuroko woke up, he could tell him what he enjoys.

Heading to the kitchen, Akashi began making something simple. 'Perhaps an omurice.' Akashi thought as he gathered the utensils he needed.

As he cooked, he thought about Kuroko while he focused on his dinner. He was an excellent fighter but his stamina was troublesome. He might've won if he had a lot more stamina. Although how it is now, Kuroko would never beat Akashi unless he improved his stamina.

Other than that, he had great speed, balanced power, and outstanding instincts. His body seems to move as if it was made to fight. Although he wondered how Kuroko would fight if he was able to fly.

'Or if he had an ability.' Akashi idly thought. What ability would Kuroko choose if he had the chance? Akashi wasn't too sure yet but he guessed it didn't matter. If he didn't have one, he didn't have one. Although it would be cool if he had some kind of fire blast or something since he does have Dragon wings and claws.

Soon enough his meal was done. Luckily he didn't zone out again or else it would have burned. He sat in his living room, eating his meal while checking the time. It's been a few hours since Kuroko's been asleep. It was pretty much dark out. Well, it didn't matter. Kuroko would be staying with him during the case since he had indeed won the fight.

After his empty bowl was set on the table, Akashi turned his head when he heard quick footsteps on the steps. So Kuroko was awake and must've been confused on where he was.

He got up, and as he expected, it was Kuroko. He seemed fine and his eyes were normal although they seemed startled. "Tetsuya?"

Kuroko walked towards him quickly, his clawed hands clinging to his shirt. Nightmare?

"Tetsuya, what's-"

"One's close. One of the people that had the stones are close. I can feel it. I can sense their powers. Very close." Kuroko said, and Akashi finally noticed that his hands were twitching and his wings were tense.

"Which one?"

"I think I hear whispers of a bow ." Kuroko said.

'The archer!' Akashi immediately thought. He pulled Kuroko close, looking around. His windows weren't open but their blinds weren't closed. His eyes just caught something shining before his window broke.

Akashi didn't notice that Kuroko moved his wing around him and whatever flew through the window hit it. However Kuroko was unharmed thanks to the hard cover on the outside.

"Guess this is what the stone meant when they said I would need these." Kuroko said, his words playful although he was completely serious.

"I saw where he was." Akashi said, watching as Kuroko's wings kept move of his body covered. But what about Kuroko? His back and legs were vulnerable. Surely he knew this?

"He's probably after you." Kuroko said, trying to move Akashi behind the couch.

"He's not, Tetsuya and you know it."

Kuroko looked up at Akashi, a bit surprised. "You think so too... Either way, it's dangerous for you. Hide behind the couch for now where he can't get you."

"He's after you. If anyone needs to hide it's-"

Akashi was cut off by Kuroko's gasp of pain. He legs buckled before he fell to the ground, leaving Akashi unprotected. On the back of his leg, Akashi could clearly see the arrow driven in the flesh. Oh how he hoped Kuroko was alright and a vital point wasn't hit.

Hurriedly, Akashi pulled Kuroko behind the couch and out the archers view. Kuroko was breathing heavily, probably trying to calm down and relax so the pain wasn't so great. It must've hurt being shot with an arrow.

"Do you want me to pull it out?" Akashi asked Kuroko, although even if he answered no, he still would.

"You have to. It might have poison." Though Kuroko seriously doubted it. The archer probably wanted him alive.

Akashi nodded, moving carefully so he was by Kuroko's leg. "We need a towel, disinfectant, and bandages though."

"He will try to move to another building to get a good angle on us. You have a few minutes." Kuroko said, sounding out of breath. Akashi could see that blood was already soaking the bottom of Kuroko's pant leg.

Akashi made sure the archer wasn't on the same building before dashing off. Why now of all times? Two days and they already returned? And what do they want with Kuroko?

As he hurried to go get the things he needed, he was thinking hard. Perhaps it had to do with the stones? He wouldn't be surprised. But of that's so, why didn't they attack him when he was in the asylum?

'They never met before, I'm sure. Then why would they want him? They don't know anything about Tetsuya. They wouldn't be able to get much information in such little time, especially since Tetsuya never really been outside.'

It was all confusing making Akashi sigh. Why did these stones have to appear in the possession of immature and irresponsible people?

'Wait... could they have turned insane?' Akashi wondered as he rushed back to Kuroko. Of course! Why didn't he think of that? Perhaps the effects of the stones did turn them insane and maybe they weren't strong enough to withstand it, but were perhaps influenced to use it by the stones themselves. It was a long shot but perhaps he could ask Kuroko.

Akashi looked at Kuroko's pant leg, seeing that it was completely dark red. There was also a puddle forming under the leg. Kuroko was having a little trouble breathing, only able to take light breaths.

"Took you long enough." Kuroko hissed out. Akashi looked at him and noticed his pupils weren't round but cat like again. He supposed it happened when Kuroko started feeling weak.

Akashi didn't reply, instead grasping the arrow. He looked at Kuroko, wondering if he would be able to handle the pain. Kuroko just groaned, glaring at Akashi. "Don't worry, it's not like I'm dying and we are on a time limit of getting shot by an archer. Please, take your time!"

Akashi narrowed his eyes at the sarcasm. Whatever, if Kuroko wanted it then he would get it. Besides, it might be best to get it out as soon as possible. As quickly and carefully as possible, Akashi glanced at Kuroko before ripping the arrow out of him.

Even a mutant like Kuroko who felt less pain shouted out in pain. His claws scratched at the wooden floor, making deep marks. Akashi even noticed some pained tears leaving his eyes. He felt guilty but it had to be done.

Akashi got the towel and wrapped it around Kuroko's leg to stop the bleeding for now. "I need to move you into a different room."

"The bathroom. There's no window in there, right?" Kuroko asked, sounding pained. Akashi nodded and gave Kuroko the disinfectant and bandages before picking him up. Keeping pressure on the towel covering Kuroko's leg, he swiftly carried him to the bathroom.

Akashi closed the door before placing Kuroko on the floor. Luckily Akashi had a big bathroom and it wasn't a hassle to get around. He kneeled down, now using the towel to clean as much blood as he could.

"Tetsuya, keep your eyes open." Akashi said when he noticed Kuroko was drifting off.

"I know I know. Please focus on what you're doing." Kuroko said, his voice weak.

'Mutant or not, he needs to go to a hospital. I'll have to pay a doctor to keep this secret.' Akashi thought as he got the disinfectant. "This is going to sting."

Kuroko merely winced when the liquid covered his wound but had no strength to do anything else. Now that the blood was out the way, Akashi could see that the wound wasn't so bad. At least for a mutant like Kuroko.

He wrapped it in bandages, taking care so he didn't hurt Kuroko any further. He has already been hurt enough so he supposed he deserved a break.

Once he was done with that he looked at Kuroko to make sure he was okay. He was still awake, looking at Akashi. "...Thanks."

"Don't mention it. Now, to get you to a hospital." Akashi said. "Although we will have to wait a little while. Think you can survive for a little longer?"

"I'll be fine." Kuroko said, slowly sitting up even though he could barely move.

"Just rest." Akashi said with a sigh. Kuroko looked at him but knew he was right. He sighed, leaning against the wall. If any trouble arose, he would either sense it and wake up or Akashi would wake him up.

Kuroko closed his eyes, quickly passing out due to blood loss and the pain in his leg. Akashi watched him, a little worried. The archer was probably the least of their problems. What will they do when they deal with super speed and a huge beast?

Akashi had waited about an hour before checking his house. There was no sign of the archer outside and they didn't enter his house. With that, Akashi had taken Kuroko to a hospital quickly. During the ride, he had called a doctor (Which he so rarely did while driving) and told them to meet him in secret. No one could know about the patient he was bringing and it was important. Governmental important.

Soon enough Kuroko was taken to an empty room all for himself and was resting. Akashi had offered to donate blood if it was ever necessary. He ended up having to give some to Kuroko in the end even though he despised needles. Though if it kept Kuroko alive, he wouldn't mind.

Now he sat by Kuroko's bed, watching over him. The archer could be anywhere, ready to take Kuroko. He doubted that they would just kill Kuroko, at least not without reason. They probably wanted him alive, but why?

Information perhaps? But how did they even know about Kuroko? His presence has been kept secret and he rarely went out. How could they have found him?

Akashi remembered Kuroko saying he sensed the person was close. Could they be the same? It could explain why they never found Kuroko in Tokyo. Plus they only received them about two days ago, if not there, from what Akashi gathered.

"Mm, Akashi-san?"

Akashi looked at Kuroko, relieved that he was okay. "Honestly, two days into the case and you're already in a hospital."

"Not my fault." Kuroko said with a huff before grimacing. "I hate hospitals. And needles."

"Well if you don't get injured you don't have to come here." Akashi said. Kuroko rolled his eyes before moving his blanket. He looked at his treated leg, tilting his head. "Wait, you brought me to a public hospital?"

"Only one doctor knows of your existence here. They are most trusted and won't tell anyone else." Akashi reassured. It was silent for a moment so Akashi decided to ask about his prediction. "So, they can sense you too, can't they?"

"I suppose so." Kuroko said, shrugging. "Its expected. If I can sense them, they can sense me too. Plus I have all three powers from the stones so I can be sensed easily."

"So they probably want you for information I'm guessing?" Akashi asked.

"Yes, most likely. It's dangerous to get close to all three stones combined." Kuroko reminded Akashi who just nodded.

"So," Akashi gave Kuroko a dangerous look. "You said you had all three powers from the stone, yet every time I ask about your ability, you say you don't have one. Is someone lying?"

"I don't have to tell you." Kuroko said, looking away.

"Any information is important Tetsuya." Akashi insisted.

"I can't use it freely anyway. It doesn't matter." Kuroko said, glancing at Akashi. His eyes were hard, warning Akashi not to push it.

Akashi hummed but didn't push it. "How are you feeling?"

"I'm fine. I heal fast."

"Good. I don't want to stick around much longer." Akashi said. "I'll take you to the station for now. You'll be protected there."

Although that wasn't the only reason why he was returning to the station late at night. He needed to plan and think. The archer now knew where his home was and probably knew that Kuroko stayed at the station most of the time. That could put his men in danger. What should he do?