Morning came quickly for the both of them. Which Akashi was certainly not grateful for since he detested mornings but was an early riser all the same. He uncurled himself from around Kuroko and started his morning routine.

He drank some water and began his exersices. He stretched thoroughly and did a round of sit ups and push ups, among other things that helps develop his muscles. Strength was the only thing he had to survive.

Kuroko would have continued sleeping peacefully, if his source of warmth hadn't left. Slowly, he opened his eyes tiredly, instantly stretching out of habit. Once again, he had to stop in mid stretch from the pain.

Slowly, he looked around, until he saw Akashi. Why was he doing exercises so early in the morning?

Not noticing that Kuroko was awake, Akashi quickly finished his exercises, beads of light sweat dripping down his face and body, which he wiped off with a towel. Normally he would complete the routine with a light jog but he didn't really want to leave Kuroko alone.

Kuroko hesitated, before standing up. He yawned lightly, a wordless way of showing he was awake. He didn't want to interrupt Akashi, not knowing that he actually finished already. He quietly headed towards the basin, lapping up some water slowly.

Akashi blinked and was about to say good morning when he paused and stared. He stared long and hard. Then he slowly facepalmed.

"How on earth did you get your hair to stand up like that?" He asked slowly and incredulously.

He continued lapping up the water, until he heard Akashi speak. Lifting his head, Kuroko looked at him, tilting his head. He then touched his hair, before giving the redhead a dead panned look. "I don't know, it happens every time, even if I don't even move in my sleep."

Like Akashi could stand for that...He shook his head and marched over to Kuroko before running his hands through the surprisingly soft blue hair, forcing it to stay down. He was careful to be gentle, not tugging on it and causing Kuroko pain.

Kuroko blinked back his surprise, almost flinching away from the sudden contact. Though he let Akashi continue, and straighten his hair out. He just wasn't used to someone reaching out there hand like that, as if they would hit him.

Akashi ignored the flinch and continued to groom Kuroko, knowing if he didn't he would spend the morning distracted by his hair. Once he was done he nodded approvingly before looking over Kuroko.

"We should change your bandages." He said as he sauntered over to the corner and picked up a roll along with ointment.

Kuroko's ears flattened a bit as he was being groomed, but said nothing. He just nodded as he was told his bandages were going to be changed. He followed Akashi over, looking at the roll of bandages and ointment. He should get more for Akashi soon.

He carefully unwrapped the old bandages from Kuroko's various wounds, sniffing each and everyone to make sure no infections were settling in, pleased when he smelled none. They were healing nicely.

He applied the foul smelling thick ointment generously on the wounds before bandaging Kuroko up again, trying to be as quick as possible and taking pains to touch Kuroko as little as possible, knowing the neko probably didn't want to be touched so intimately.

Kuroko's ears kept twitching as he undo his bandages, sniffing at them, then redid the bandages. He was trying his best to stay still, not much used to the touching, but he knew this was for survival. "Will we be doing anything, Akashi-kun?" He asked, staring at him.

"I can show you around. I think there's a few people you should learn to avoid as well as people you ought to friend." Akashi said as he finished bandaging Kuroko, stepping back to examine his work. "Tell me, do you know how to fight?"

He nodded in understanding, letting out a breath of relief as he backed away. Stretching again, this time careful. "..I have never fought before, So I don't think I will be useful in a fight." He said, looking down at his paws.

"It's still a good thing to learn, just in case." Akashi said as he also stretched lightly. He himself had to teach himself to fight. His body was covered in scars from fights he had with other stray nekos and lack of presence or not, Kuroko needed to learn just in case.

He looked unsure at first, but nodded. "Alright. If it is for survival, I'll learn how to fight.. Please be patient with me if you teach me." He said, looking down at his feet slightly.

"We'll see how you do later. For now, eat until you're full, it will be a long day." Akashi said as he gestured to the food he had stolen yesterday. He himself took a can of fish and used his sharp nails to pry it open. He began eating although he didn't eat until he was full, he was used to functioning with little food.

"Okay.." Kuroko said, looking over at the food. He wasn't much of an eater, but he said he would do as Akashi said to survive. He only chose the crackers, eating a few until he said he was full. Of course he was full already, since he had such a small appetite.

Akashi looked at how little Kuroko had eaten and while it meant he had a smaller appetite than most, in the long run it would only hepl the boy. Less of an appetite would mean less food he would need. He himself polished off the can before he stood up and beckoned Kuroko to follow him out the door.

"There is a particular group of men you must avoid at all costs. Doesn't matter where you are or what you're doing. If you see them, you run." Akashi said seriously.

Kuroko set down his food slowly and carefully, before standing. He followed Akashi, his ears pulled back as his tail swayed warningly. "Even Akashi-kun runs away from them?" The red haired neko seemed to be feared by some, he noticed, so he was surprised that even Akashi avoided someone.

"i would be a fool not to. They have guns they use on you if they think you're pretty enough and it puts you to sleep. They pick you up and give then sell you back to humans." Akashi explained with a dark look as his fur bristled at the thought.

The rest of Kuroko's fur almost looked like it was electrified, as it stood on end, at the mention of guns. He heard and saw them before, and he never liked them. "I don't want to be sold to just anyone. And how does Akashi-kun know this?" He asked.

"...It happened to me once. I was still new to the streets and I didn't know anything at the time. I thought I did but I didn't. I was trying to steal food, I hadn't eaten a thing for a week. Then they came and took me away to a place so horrid that I still have nightmares about." Akashi's eyes glazed in memory before he promptly shook his head. "Either way, don't get caught by them."

His ears flattened once again, looking at his feet. "..I see, I am sorry." Was all he said, not really sure how to comfort someone like Akashi, or in this situation.

"It was a lesson that I needed." Akashi said simply, uncaringly, refusing for it to let it affect him. "I was sold to a rich family which I promptly ran from and I learned how to survive. I will show you how to spot them so you don't have to learn it like I did."

He was going how he could have stayed with the rich family, and gotten food and a home easily, but stayed quiet. He had learned that Akashi despised humans. Kuroko just nodded, walking up beside him. "Please show me. I don't want to be caught." Though he doubt he would, with his lack of presence.

"They should be up and about right about now." Akashi murmured as they walked down the street, keeping to the shadows as his keen mismatched eyes watched the crowd carefully. "Should be...Ah! There we go. That man do you see?"

At first glance he looked like a normal civillian, mixing into the crowd easily but the small difference that seperated him, besides the belt that held a gun hidden under his shirt, was a small pin on his shirt, right above his heart. It was a lovely pin, in a shape of a small neko and an endearing heart above it.

His heart raced a bit hearing that they could be out right now, but stayed calm. He just quietly followed Akashi, making sure to take the steps he takes to make sure he didn't get seen. Kuroko stared at the man, trying to see the difference. He looked normal.

"I see the man. Is he them?" He asked, standing behind Akashi, but could see the man clearly from an angle.

"That pin against his heart marks him as one of them. Just seeing it brings back memories." Akashi said wryly as he heard the howls of agony from hundreds of nekos all trapped in cages so small they couldn't even move. He had so many reasons to hate humans. "Trust me Tetsuya, there are worst things than death and you will see it if you ever get caught."

Kuroko shivered a little, knowing that if Akashi was frightful of that place and these people, then he definitely should be too. "I will remember.. can we now? I don't feel safe near them.."

"Yes, as long as you remember to look out for that pin." Akashi said as he saw the man suddenly rush off, perhaps seeing a neko. He shook his head and turned away, leading Kuroko toward the market place. "You should avoid the slums if you have anything of value, be wary even if you don't. Many seasoned strays there who will pick fights with you."

Kuroko gladly followed Akashi once again, happy to be away from that man. "Why is there so much violence in a stray neko's life?" He asked, tilting his head. Honestly, when he had his family, he had love, food, shelter, everything. Why live as a stray?

"We want to survive and in this world, for this is another world entirely, only the strongest survive. We are all each other's enemies. There isn't enough food or shelter for everyone and nekos who can't defend what is theirs, will die." Akashi said bitterly, not bothering to sugarcoat anything. Kuroko had to learn and he had to learn fast. He was lucky to have help because Akashi seriously doubted he would have been able to by himself.

Surprised by the answer, Kuroko slowed his walking. He soon stopped, staring at Akashi. He did not understand these nekos ways of violence, but... if it was for survival, then he would do it. "Akashi-kun, please teach me to fight now. In case we run into anyone dangerous.."

Akashi stared at Kuroko, trying to discern what fighting style would suit him best. With his lack of presence, perhaps he could have an advantage with fighting. After all, it would be hard to hit what you couldn't see. It would be prudent perhaps to teach him the pressure points to disarm the opponent and Kuroko would be able to do it especially if he was quick.

"How fast are you in general?" Akashi asked before raising a paw. "Hit it as fast as you can."

Kuroko blinked, not expecting to be asked to hit Akashi's paw. Though maybe it had a reason. Now he would have to make sure not to hurt his own paw, since he knew Akashi wouldn't even be harmed by his hit.

Breathing out slowly, he quickly raised his paw, to hit Akashi's raised one. His movements were still able to be seen, but it was still quite fast.

Akashi nodded approvingly at the speed. Yes, Kuroko wouldn't do very bad at all in a fight but Akashi suspected the most problem he would have would have to do with his morals. It wasn't something Akashi could teach him though, Kuroko would have to learn on his own.

This world wasn't about being a good person or a bad person. It was what one would do in order to survive.

"I'm going to punch you with my right paw. Defend yourself." Akashi said and he gave Kuroko a split second before he aimed to punch him with his paw.

His tail swiped back and forth, as he awaited instructions from Akashi. He didn't know if all of this was worth it. He didn't even know if he wanted to live alone and on the streets. He just wasn't that person.

Eyes a bit wide, he wanted to protest or ask a question, but Akashi was all ready. He couldn't block the punch, but he could push Akashi's arm away as it reached for him for the punch.

It actually smarted a little, Akashi had to grudgingly admit, when Kuroko pushed away Akashi's arm with enough force to fling it back. That was good, very good. He was quick and he had good reflexes at the very least.

"I'm not sure how good of a teacher I am, but you have potential to be a good fighter, or at least, good enough to fight back anybody who goes after you." Akashi complimented. "Tell me, do you know what a nekos weakest spot is?"

Kuroko sighed in relief, seeing Akashi wasn't going to attack him again. That last move scared him, as he didn't realize Akashi's words quick enough. He would need to pay attention more.

Well, it was good praised by Akashi. He now knew he had a small chance at fighting. Then he tilted his head. "..The tail?.."

"Yes. Generally, the first to catch a tail in a fight, wins. ALways try to get a tail and when you get it, tug as hard as you can. It won't always work, some have trained to get used to it, but most won't even be able to move." Akashi explained as he swished his own tail. "Same goes for you. When in a fight try keeping your tail wrapped around your waist and out of sight. They will try to grab it."

Kuroko backed up a bit, his tail defensively wrapping around his leg. "Won't the tail just pop off if someone pulls hard enough?" He knew that the muscle holding their tail to them was very little. It was like a squirrels tail. One rough tug, and it was gone.

"You can strengthen your tail if you do certain exercises. It will never be very strong but it will be enough to hopefully withstand it if someone pulls it." Akashi said as he switched his tail around before wrapping it around his own waist before smirking. "My tail is nice and bushy, easy to grab but yours will never be this bushy, at least, if you're fortunate. It means less of a target to grab."

"... See, if I don't let my fur grow back, and let it be bushy, then it'll be harder to grab. Simple." Kuroko said numbly, sighing to himself. This violence seemed useless in his point of view, but he has to deal with it and learn.

"Not all tails are as bushy as mine." Akashi said with exasperation before he swooped down and gently took Kuroko's tail, examining the fur that was there. "Look, see here? Normal length fur which means it won't be like mine. Lucky you."

Kuroko was surprised once again at Akashi's swift movement. He wanted to pull his tail away, in case Akashi tried to rip it off, but refrained from doing so. He knew Akashi wouldn't do that. "Yeah.."

"So, short haired which will help you. Not to say long haired tails are bad." Akashi said as he dropped Kuroko's tail and stroked his own with pride. "But you'll have an easier time in fights."

Kuroko nodded again. "I understand." He said, before reaching out and gently petting Akashi's tail. He was ready to jump back, in case Akashi didn't favor anyone touching his tail. "Akashi-kun's tail is fwuffy." He added.

Akashi purred slightly, pride in his eyes, as he allowed Kuroko to touch his tail which swayed slightly. "All the Akashi's in my family had a tail like this, it was part of our bloodline. It isn't the only thing I inherited but I take great pride in it."

He looked back up at Akashi, before letting go of his tail and looking around. "What else do we need to do anyway?.." He asked slowly, continuing to look around.

"Plenty to do in the city." Akashi said as he let go of his tail and looked around idly. "Steal, pick fights, might teach you a think or two to watch one, go sight seeing, meet new people, learn how to fight. Take your pick."

"Is there anyone I could fight to where I could have a chance?" He asked, tilting his head. He wanted to learn how to fight, but in a real one. Not where Akashi would probably my stop whenever he asked him to.

"..." Akashi hesitated as he looked at Kuroko incredulously. He got a few tips and he already wanted to match up with a stray? Well...There were a few nekos who owed him a favor. Wouldn't be much to ask them to fight Kuroko and not kill him if he lost. "You might get hurt on top of all your wounds. I have favors I can call it where they won't kill you but they'll knock you silly."

Kuroko's ears pulled back, his eyes narrowed, and he lightly hissed in irritation. He didn't even get a chance and Akashi was already judging the outcome of the fight. "I can still try." Was all he said, not really good at arguing.

Akashi hissed back, growling in his throat, giving Kuroko a warning look. "I didn't mean anything by it but what do you expect? You just learned to fight, not even putting into practice yet, and you're injured. These strays have learned how to fight, had to. I was merely warning you of the possible outcome."

Kuroko didn't back down, but lowered his hiss into a low growl, ears flat. "Then have a practice match with me. If I win, you take me to fight the people you need favors from. If I lose, I won't ask to fight anyone else until I beat you." He offered, not even aware of what he said.

Akashi wondered if Kuroko was aware just how rude he was being, to ask to fight so brazenly against someone who had been fighting for years. Then again, it would be insulting only to himself if he lost, it was Kuroko's right to challenge him. Even if Kuroko lost though, Akashi would set up fights for him.

"Very well." Akashi said as his eyes narrowed into slits, his fur bristly as his tail wrapped around his waist and his nails extended out from his paws.

Kuroko kept his eyes narrowed, taking a few steps back. Once he was a good distance, he stood his ground, already in a defensive stance. He knew he would have to be careful, especially with his already current wounds, but he couldn't back out now. Plus, he needed to learn how to fight.

He let his own claws come out from his paws, showing he was ready, after wrapping his small tail around his waist tightly.

"...Balance on the balls of your feet. Perhaps if you were bigger and bulkier you would stand that way, centering your gravity, but you're not. You need to be light on your toes and ready move." Akashi said. "Keep your elbows up, arms slightly extended, ready to slash."

Kuroko huffed a bit, but did as he said, changing his stance and the position of his arms. Looking back up at Akashi, he waited, but was careful. "Is that it?"

"Got it." He replied after a moment, eyeing Akashi as he moved into a fighting stance. This would help him. He just needed to try his best. If he was to survive, he needed to know how to fight. "I know." He was more of the speed time then strength anyway.

Akashi sighed before he darted forward, doing an experimantal kick to Kuroko's side although taking the pains to avoid anywhere he was injured. He wasn't above dirty fighting but this wasn't a fight to survive.

Kuroko watched, seeing how it looked like Akashi wasn't even trying. His ears pulled back more, letting out a quiet hiss, before blocking the kick with his paw, claws slightly digging into the skin before pulling away.

Akashi didn't even wince, already preparing for that possibility. It was his style, to discern how strong his opponent was, their reflexes, how they moved, before he truly started fighting. He got injured because of it but it saved his life on more than one occasion.

He rushed forward one more, this time kicked at Kuroko's leg to see how he might defend himself.

Kuroko continued watching Akashi closely, determined to give a good fight. He would have to pay attention though, and focus on the fight. Kuroko jumped back away from the kick, and quickly took the redheads ankle, pushing him back so the distance was further apart, and maybe have him fall over.

How delightful, Kuroko was turning out to be an interesting fighter. It was too early to say he was good at it but he definitely had potential. Alright, time to get a little more serious.

Akashi regained his balance easily, his tail waving out to help, before he adjusted his stance, lowering his body more with bent knees, his paws raised. He pushed off on the balls of his feet, lunging at Kuroko, before he started slashing at the neko but trying his best not to scratch him too deeply.

Staying where he was, keeping his stance, his tail got tighter around his waist in anticipation. As soon as Akashi came, pretty quickly, he raised his arms so Akashi couldn't scratch at his face. He forced himself not to wince, before quickly twisting his arms slightly, to take hold of Akashi's, digging his claws so he wouldn't escape easily.

One hand pulled him closer, taking that huge risk. If he was just fast enough, he could reach Akashi's tail before he attacked him while he's open in that split second moment.

Kuroko was good and for a brief second Akashi entertained the idea that perhaps Kuroko had lied to him about not knowing how to fight but he brushed that thought away. Kuroko didn't strike him as a liar.

Natural fighter perhaps. Someone born with the instinct to fight, usually inherited through breed. Akashi considered using his emperor eyes, a bloodline trait, but decided against it for now.

Kuroko managed to grab his tail and Akashi made it twist around Kuroko's wrist and he pulled Kuroko forward with a yank, trying to force Kuroko to the ground.

Kuroko almost hissed out in frustration, when he was almost thrown to the ground. He couldn't be knocked down, not unless he was fast enough to get up without his opponent hurting him. Making a quick decision, he let go of Akashi's tail, jumping back once again.

He once again got into his position again, almost instantly, eyeing Akashi. He waited for his move.

Akashi looked around, seeing the attention they were gathering, and decided it was time to end it. They would have plenty more time to fight and he would make sure Kuroko got opponents but this wasn't the place to fight.

Kuroko was good, no doubt about it, and when refined, he could be downright deadly. Akashi was impressed and he actually found himself wanting to continue to fight. Still...

Akashi took a slow exhale and then inhale. When he exhaled one more, he darted to Kuroko faster than before, allowing his true speed to show, and he grabbed Kuroko's neck. With a sweeping movement of his leg, he swept Kuroko off his feet and he slammed the neko onto the ground without releasing his throat.

Kuroko never even noticed the attention they were receiving. He guessed he wasn't used to the attention, is all. He tilted his head a bit, seeing Akashi take deep breaths. He didn't tire him, did he? That isn't possible.

His eyes widened a bit, as he didn't even see Akashi move, but could feel the pads of his paw on his neck. His breath hitched when his legs were kicked right out from under him. Then he let out a startled and slightly pained cough, as he landed on the ground. When did Akashi move?

One of Akashi's legs moved back and his foot lightly stepped on Kuroko's tail, not enough to hurt, but enough to warn him that it easily could.

"Do you yield?" Akashi asked expressionlessly.

Kuroko hissed lightly, ears pinned back in anger. He wasn't finished. Though looking around quickly, he noticed the different people noticing them from far off. Perhaps that was why Akashi stopped.

"No, I don't wish to, not yet... but with these people, we must stop here.." He muttered out, speaking softly as if the paw on his throat would suffocate him if he spoke louder.

Akashi growled, his tail swishing, instincts telling him to make Kuroko yield. Akashi hissed, his face inches from Kuroko's, before he got off of him, his tail still wagging in agitation as he looked around. Nobody with pins stood around them, just wary people who noticed their collarless necks.

Kuroko continued hissing lightly, ears still pinned back, even as he sat up. He rubbed his neck gently, then his back, while standing up. His tail swung angrily, but he couldn't be mad. He was more fascinated. How was Akashi that fast?

"That was rather stupid of us to fight here." Akashi muttered angrily, his anger directed at himself than anything. People wouldn't notice Kuroko but they would notice him and he knew better than to attract unnecessary attention up on himself. "We need to go now."

Akashi walked off urgently, his tail not stopping its angry wag as he stepped into the darkness of an alley to hide in the shadows.

Kuroko blinked slightly, staring at Akashi. He didn't mean to make him mad. He really didn't. It was all because he wanted to fight. There was no point anyway, he was just learning, how could he just run head first into fights?

He looked down at his paws, as if in shame. Shaking his head, he quickly followed after Akashi. He didn't say anything, deciding to let Akashi cool on his own.

"You fought very well, a natural even." Akashi complimented when he was sure that they were hidden from view. He began to idly lick his wounds as he turned to Kuroko to check if he was wounded badly. "You won't need my help for very long at all."

He didn't say anything, just starting to carefully lick the scratch wounds on both his arms. A few scratches were bleeding here and there, but it was mostly fine.

He looked up at Akashi, stopping for a moment. "I enjoy Akashi-kun's help

"It might cause you more trouble than help the longer you stay with me." Akashi said with a smirk and a small wink before he peered out of the alley. Everyone had seemed to move on, no longer caring about a stray's fight. "Don't worry, you're good at fighting, you can steal, all you need is a shelter and you won't need me any longer."

He became a bit confused by the smirk and wink, before shaking his head. He brushed it off as Akashi just being Akashi. Kuroko shook his head, still staring at him. "I don't want to live alone." He was someone made to always be with someone, he wasn't cut out to be a loner.

"I'm afraid I'm not very good company Tetsuya." Akashi said with a chuckle as he stepped back out of the alley and began walking around idly. "Well, this is a matter for some other time I suppose since I will still teach you to refine your fighting skills."

He thought Akashi was great company. Nice, caring, helpful, everything. Kuroko just simply nodded, following g him with his paws behind his back. "Thank you, for accepting my challenge earlier.. and I am sorry I did not yield as you asked."

"It is fine perhaps that persistence will save your life someday. Although, it's also good to know when to give in as well." Akashi cautiously warned.

He hung his head a bit. "Yes I know, I am still sorry." He apologized, before lifting his head. He needed to watch where he was walking, not wanting to run into Akashi or a well or something.

"It's fine." Akashi said as he looked around curiously. "Now, I need to make sure your old master isn't looking for you..."

He looked up, eyes a bit wide. "Huh?.. you mean..?" He didn't finish his sentence, lightly tracing his tail, that was still being healed and had some fur loss.

"I'm not sure what your circumstances are but is there a chance, even a little, that your master is looking for you?" Akashi asked seriously as he turned to look at Kuroko.

Kuroko thought back, as much as he could. There was still a chance. He hesitated, before nodded. "Yes.. there is still a chance, I now realized.."

"There's someone I know who keeps very careful tabs on the gatherers, the ones who take nekos away, so he'll know if your old master has asked them to find you." Akashi said as he began to walk off once more. "His name is Stubby."

Kuroko blinked a bit, before slowly nodding. "Alright.. we he will tell me if my old master is still looking for me?" He almost didn't want to know.

"Yes." Akashi replied as he continued to look around and sniff the air. "It won't change much but it will let you know if you need to stay low or not. Try sniffing the air and tell me if you smell fish."

Kuroko reluctantly nodded, turning his head towards the air and smelling for fish. He almost didn't smell it at first, but he smelled it far off. He raised his arm, pointing in a direction. "I smell fish just barely, in that direction."

"Sharp nose. My sense of smell if off." Akashi said as he walked off in the direction Kuroko pointed in.

"Well, it's natural I guess.." He said, following Akashi as soon as he started walking towards the fish smell.

"...I suppose although it had more to do with my curiousity getting the best of me...Once got to close to a stove as a kitten." Akashi said with a chuckle.

"Well that's no good.." Kuroko replied, looking towards Akashi. "So it permanently hurt your nose?"

"Not exactly, I just never fully regained my sense of smell." Akashi said with clear amusement. "I was always too curious for my own good."

Kuroko just nodded, turning his head back to watch where they were walking. "As long as you don't get hurt, I guess you can be curious all you like."

"I suppose. Ah, I smell it now we must be close." Akashi said as he began looking around. "Now, Stubby is an interesting neko and I must implore you don't take much of what he says or does seriously unless it pertains to the gatherers or nekos."

Kuroko listened in, ears twitching to show he was listening and processing every word. He gently rubbed his arms, feeling the scratches Akashi gave him earlier already turn into little scabs. "I see. I will take your word for it."

"I'm sorry if I hurt you too badly." Akashi said as he eyed the wounds. He didn't truly regret it though since it was a part of learning to fight.

Kuroko shook his head, letting his arms drop. "You didn't hurt me to bad. And in any case, it was to learn how to fight, so don't be sorry." He wasn't mad at all that Akashi had added on to his scars or wounds. It was small and would heal fine without treatment.

"If you're sure...This way then." Akashi turned into an alley where the scent of fish was originating. "I know you're here Stubby."

A small black neko stepped out of the shadows, his striped ears twitching as well as the little stub that used to be a tail. He looked over at them with slit yellow eyes. HIs eyes looked over at Kuroko waveringly, a frown growing on his face, before they focused on the neko with surprise. A lewd grin grew on his face as he approached the neko.

"Why 'ello there."

Kuroko just hoped Akashi didn't regret fighting him. If he was asked, he would actually admit that fighting Akashi was fun.

Once in the alley, he stood close by Akashi, his tail wrapped around his leg in a protective manner. He heard it before he saw the neko, and he looked at him with a confused look. He was a bit surprised when he suddenly smiled and walked up to them. He hesitated, before answering. "..Hello.."

"Stubby, Tetsuya Kuroko, Tetsuya, Stubby." Akashi introduced quickly, his tail flicking out and coming between the two nekos. "Now, I need some information."

"They're still after you." Stubby said quickly and Akashi rolled his eyes.

"Of course they are. No, has anyone asked around for a neko looking like Tetsuya?"

"I haven't heard anything yet." Stubby asked as he examined Kuroko thoroughly. "Who do you think is looking for you, Kuroko?"

Kuroko nodded lightly when they were introduced, before looking at Akashi from the corner of his eye. Who was after him? Those people with the badges?

He turned his attention to the other neko, known as Stubby. He didn't need to hesitate or think about the question. "My old master.."

It felt strange calling him 'master'.

"Hmm I'll keep my eye out and tell you guys if I see anybody then." Stubby said in thought and Akashi nodded. "Kuroko, if you ever need information on anybody, come to ole Stubby and he'll tell ya for free."

Kuroko nodded once again, silently saying thanks. "I'll make sure to come find you, then. Thank you for the information." Even though nothing new was revealed, it was still polite.

"We should get going." Akashi said anxiously. Stubby was useful but he wasn't necessarily a good person. "If you find anything, tell me."

"Will do. Oh, the gatherers will be scouting out the market place today so I would suggest not stealin today." Stubby said and Akashi nodded before he began walking away, making sure Kuroko was close behind. At least it had been a short visit.

"If you ever need to know anything, he is the one to go to. He has spies everywhere and he knows everything about anybody." Akashi said to Kuroko.

Kuroko took hint of Akashi's tone, but didn't question it, at least not yet. He just waited for them to finish up their small conversation, before following Akashi out of the alley, and away from Stubby.

"I will remember to find him, then.." He paused, before looking around. "Though now I feel stalked, after you said he had spies and knows everything about people.."

"It's his job that he gets paid with fish to do. He knows about all the nekos who peek his interest. Even me." Akashi grumbled with narrowed eyes before he shook his head. "He owes me though, he won't tell anyone about you or me."

So that's why he smells of fish.

Kuroko shook his head, before nodding. "I see. Well, that's good then.. what will we be doing now? Since we can't go stealing.." Though with his ability, he could probably steal without trouble in the markets, but better be safe then sorry.

"Anything you want to do?" Akashi asked thoughtfully. True they couldn't steal but they didn't have to stay in hiding. Just avoid the marketplace.

He didn't know the area, and he didn't know what else he could do. "Well, what does Akashi-kun like to do for fun? Or for free time?" He asked, tilting his head as he looked at Akashi.

"Steal, fish, kittens, read or pick fights with nekos." Akashi replied slowly after some thought. He really needed more hobbies ...

Kuroko was glad that Akashi reads. He did as well, as his old family had lots of books, all the way from children books to novels. Though he wasn't in the mood to read. "Don't you do fun things?" He asked, it sounded weird coming from him.

"...I terrorize humans as well." Akashi said after some more thought. "That can be fun."

Of course. So Akashi like. "Terrorize them like how?" Kuroko asked, stopping his walking and stretched a bit. He was glad to know that it didn't hurt as much when he stretched.

"Nothing much. Throw things at them from rooftops, steal from them, trip them on occassion because they're too stupid to look where they're going." Akashi said with a wave of his paw.

"Sounds like fun, but we shouldn't bring attention to ourselves.." He looked up in thought, humming softly. "Do you ever play-fight with those little nekos back in that place?" He asked.

"Occasionally just to get them prepared for when they're older. I will also be the one to teach them to steal." Akashi murmured as he thought of the kittens. "I used to live with them but after I got caught I thought it best if I didn't anymore. Just in case."

Well, as long as the kittens will know how to survive. Though he didn't like it how it reminded Akashi of when he was caught. He decided to change the subject. "Well, let's have a play fight. No claws or anything, just for fun. Please?" Kuroko asked, looking at Akashi with hopeful eyes.

Akashi wanted to say no because they were full grown nekos, and by all standards were too old to do something like playfight but he saw Kuroko's look and he found himself sighing in defeat.

"Fine by not here. We'll go to the field by the creek." Akashi said decisively.

Kuroko continued looking at Akashi, just hoping he wouldn't refuse. He slightly smiled when he heard that Akashi agreed. He nodded, before looking around. "Where is this field then?"

We went there yesterday when we went to get water." Akashi replied as he began walking off. "As I mentioned, humans don't really go there so we don't have to be as careful."

"Ah I see. I don't think I was paying attention when we walked towards the creek to get water." Kuroko said thoughtfully, following Akashi. He was really glad he agreed, as he never really got to play with another neko in a harmless fight before. The kids in his family played with him, but there were no other neko. "Alright, that's good."

Akashi didn't honestly know how to go about playfighting with another full grown neko...Would it really be like how he played with the kittens? Akashi scratched his head in a rare sign of confusion. He supposed he would see when they got there.

Kuroko looked over at Akashi, in clear confusion. It made him smile softly, seeing him show emotion, even if it was just confusion. "You don't need to think about play-fights. It doesn't matter about age either, as long as you have fun."

"Fun huh?" Akashi murmured as he crossed his arms, his head still tilted in thought. Play fighting wasn't meant for fun it was for kitten to learn how to fight though...Akashi shook his head. Perhaps Kuroko was just eccentric.

"Yes, fun. Not all play-fights have to necessarily mean learning how to fight. It can be just to have fun or pass the time." Kuroko continued, seeing that Akashi was still confused.

"If you say so." Akashi said as his tail curled and uncurled behind him. They made it to the field and they walked out more to put more distance between them and the city. Akashi looked around to make sure they were by themselves before he hesitantly crouched on all fours, his tail swishing side to side, just like he did with the kittens.

Kuroko didn't reply, just continuing to walk. He was upset that Akashi was confused, but happy that he still followed through, just for him. Once they settled down, he saw Akashi already crouched down. It made him smile at his reluctance. He got down as well, his tail flicking slightly. "It will be fun. Remember, fun."

Fun he says. How can fighting, play fighting at that, be fun? Honestly, this little neko was so weird.

Akashi's fur puffed slightly, and he experimentally batted at Kuroko's head with a unclawed paw, his head still slightly tilted.

Kuroko's ears twitched a bit, waiting to see what Akashi would do. It was just like their fight earlier, where he waited for Akashi to make the first move.

He shook his head a little when Akashi batted at him almost looking confused. He smiled, before quickly pouncing at Akashi.

Akashi let out a soft meow when Kuroko suddenly pounced on him and he jumped back and batted Kuroko on the head again, his ears flicking back but then perking back up.

Kuroko lowered himself onto the ground, before laying on his back and swatting at Akashi from underneath without claws.

Akashi swatted right back tentatively, gently nipping at the paws, before running off a little. He crouched low to the ground once more as he watched Kuroko carefully.

Kuroko smiled once again, seeing that Akashi was slowly getting the hint of play-fights. He turned back over, and shook slowly to free himself of the dirt that littered his back, before he bounced over to Akashi, low to the ground again.

Akashi's tail wagged before he darted over to Kuroko, nipped his ear playfully and then ran off. It really was like playing with the kittens and it was...enjoyable. At least more enjoyable than AKashi thought it would be. It was still utterly ridiculous but he found himself not minding as much.

He pouted a bit, but smiled once again, and followed after him quickly. This was really fun, especially with another neko, rather then a human child. They couldn't run or jump or sweat the same as him, so it was less entertaining. Kuroko jumped up, pouncing on Akashi as he ran away.

Akashi felt Kuroko jump on him and he buckled a little before he rolled over so Kuroko was forced on him before he pounced on Kuroko himself, batting him playfully.

Kuroko wasn't surprised that Akashi didn't handle him on his back, so he braced himself when he rolled over. He blinked in surprise, before smiling and lightly batting at Akashi's face, not hurting him.

Akashi meowed deeply as he nipped at Kuroko, blinking when Kuroko's paw hit him on the nose. He leaned down and nipped Kuroko on the nose in retaliation before getting of the neko, his tail wagging invitingly.

Kuroko was probably having the most fun he had in a long time. His ear twitched to the nip to his nose, and he stood as soon as Akashi moved. He got down low, before he pounced at Akashi again.

Kuroko landed on Akashi's back and it caught him off guard, making him fall down a hill that they were on. They both began rolling down it landing in a pile of limbs and tails at the bottom of it.

Kuroko's eyes widened a bit in surprise, but he wasn't hurt when the tumbled down the hill. He was still laughing, and faintly laughing. It was small and quiet, but still a laugh. He didn't even mind as he felt that his tail was slightly being crushed by Akashi's foot when they landed.

Akashi was stunned at first before he started laughing as well, rolling so he was no longer on top of Kuroko. He laid on his back and just laughed, finding himself enjoying the small action.

"I haven't laughed since I was a kitten." Akashi admitted, still chuckling as he stood up and offered Kuroko a paw.

Hearing Akashi laugh, Kuroko was now completely happy. It was nice to known that they were having fun, and laughing and playing. He watched Akashi, and took his paw with his own to stand. "Well, I'm glad I made you laugh again. And I have not laughed either since.." He thought back, but he could not remember ever laughing.

Akashi helped Kuroko stand onto his feet and without thinking, licked off a streak of dirt off of his cheek. When realization hit, Akashi looked away and began distractedly grooming his tail.

Kuroko smiled towards Akashi, happy for the help, though he was surprised by the lick to his cheek. He blinked, staring at Akashi who seemed to be distracting himself. He tilted his head slightly. "Akashi-kun?"

"Yes?" Akashi asked as his ears flicked back and his tail twitched in his paws, looking at Kuroko from the corner of his eyes.

"What was that for?" He asked, but didn't seem mad. It could mean anything, there could have been something on his face.

"It was nothing." Akashi replied simply, his ears going back, feeling a bit awkward which was ridiculous because it was just cleaning, he did the same last night didn't he? Akashi shook his head before walking to the creek and lapping up some water.

"I..see." He reluctantly said, watching Akashi go and get a drink from the creek. Kuroko made no movement to follow, staying where he was at the bottom of the hill. He settled back down into the green grass, stretching once again.

Akashi noticed and ambled back toward Kuroko, lying on his back to watch passing clouds. "How have you been handling everything? I'm sure it has been hard for you."

Kuroko closed his eyes, though his ears twitched, hearing Akashi lay down beside him. "Can you explain what you mean?" He asked, after all, he could be talking about being a stray, his new life, his wounds, his learning to fight, learning to steal, and more.

"Everything Tetsuya. Being a stray and having to live on the streets. It can't be an easy adjustment for you." Akashi said as memories of when he was first on the street flitted in his head.

He sighed, and took a moment to think. He wasn't really thinking about his new life now. If he were to explain it.. "Well, I haven't been having trouble adjusting, because of Akashi-kun. There are times when you can steal, but then you can just go to see those kittens, and take care of them. You learn to fight to survive, and then brush it off with a playful fight to pass the time and for fun. So, Akashi-kun has been distracting me from remembering my old collared life."

"I am glad to be of use, Tetsuya." Akashi said politely. "I will try my best to teach you all that i can until you're fully healed."

"Will I live alone when I fully heal?" He asked, turning on his side to look at Akashi.

"It would be better for you." Akashi said carefully, his ears pressing firmly back. "You can live with the kittens perhaps, I'm sure that they will like you very much. Or I can find you a shelter that will be safe."

He didn't want to live alone, but he understood that he probably couldn't live with Akashi. "You don't need to, I will just stay with the kittens. That way I can make sure they are okay, protect them and steal for them, and plus you will always know where I am at."

"It's for the best, Tetsuya." Akashi said with a small smile before standing onto his feet. It wasn't that he didn't want Kuroko to not live with him, he had room for two and Kuroko wasn't a troublesome neko, far from it, but it wouldn't be safe. Still...Akashi sighed and shook his head. "I'm heading back home. You can stay here or come, it's just over there."

Kuroko looked up at him, as Akashi stood up. He sat up, but he didn't make any movement to stand up. "What will you be doing at home?" He asked, tilting his head slightly.

"Not much. Probably read a bit." Akashi replied. Truthfully, around this time he would see what he could steal but even he didn't dare approach the market which irritated him. "Maybe I'll find someone to pick on instead. I'm not sure."

Kuroko pouted a bit, but nodded. "Alright, I'll be here. Probably watch the clouds roll over head or something." He said, looking up at the sky as he said so.

Akashi nodded before sauntering off, his tail swishing side to side. Perhaps a nap would be better, he hadn't had a decent catnap for a while. With that in mind, Akashi nodded to himself, looking back at Kuroko one last time before he began walking home.

Kuroko watched after Akashi, staying where he was. He would wait a few minutes after Akashi left, before standing up. He shook a bit, flicking his tail, before walking off towards the city.

Stubby was an old old neko who hated all. It's why he kept tabs on them all, that's what you did what you hated someone, you learned all you could about them.

He moved through crowds on the outskirts of the city, wrinkling his nose at neko and humans alike. Yes, Stubby hated them all.

Kuroko walked and walked, following the path that he remembered he and Akashi walked to get from the city to the creek. It didn't take long to get there, as he wanted to hurry. Who knew when Akashi would come looking for him.

He looked around, but stopped, as he smelled the familiar scent of fish. Stubby. Following the scent, he darted after it, only slowing once he found the neko he had been looking for. "Stubby." He called out, when he wasn't too far behind him.

Stubby looked around and blinked. He saw something, his old eyes trained to see more than a normal neko, but it still took him a while to see the neko he had met earlier. "Ah, my beautiful neko, how can I be of service?"

Kuroko waited for Stubby to notice him, as he would get used to it soon. It still amazed him how Akashi could see him perfectly, now that he thought about it. He shook his head, beautiful? He was nothing but bruises and scars. "I just want someone to fight, but someone you think I can handle. Would you mind doing this for me?" He asked, being blunt as always.

"What? Little odd eyes not doing it for you?" Stubby asked as his eyes glinted.

Kuroko blinked a bit, before shaking his head again, slowly. "No, He wanted to read or take a nap, and I didn't want to bother him. So I asked if I could go fight, and he said yes. So I came to you." He lied.

"I see." Stubby said. he knew a few nekos that would be a good fight for Kuroko, sure, however, he hated the arrogant red neko. He wondered how much he would suffer if his little pet was killed. "Go take this alley, follow it down, turn a right then go down the second alley you see. Over there you'll find a neko to your liking who'll be happy to fight you."

Kuroko listened closely, remembering the directions Stubby told him. He nodded, before turning to leave through the alleyways. "Thank you very much, Stubby." He said, before taking off, following his instructions on direction.

Stubby watched Kuroko leave before chuckling to himself as he walked away, pleased with himself. Perhaps he should lead the gatherers to Akashi next. Now there was a thought.

Kuroko watched his surroundings, as he headed towards where Stubby told him to go. 'Go right, and into the second alley..' Kuroko reminded himself. He took it slow, in case anyone there was aggressive and attacked at any moment. He slowly headed down the second alley, trying not to make a noise.

A neko covered with scar, both new and old, sat on a dumpster, sharpening his claws, his ragged tail curling and uncurling. He didn't notice Kuroko approach him, he just kept sharpening his blood encrusted nails.

Kuroko just blinked, watching the neko for a second. They didn't look so harmless, but Akashi trusted Stubby, so he would too. Slowly, he walked up to the neko. "..Hello?" He called out, close to the neko, but kept his distance.

The cats ears perked up and he looked around, shouting in surprise when he saw Kuroko. He pounced down from his perch and circled Kuroko, eyeing him curiously.

He blinked in surprise when he jumped down, and watched him closely. His tail wrapped around his legs tightly, but made no other hints of discomfort from being looked at.

"What is a little thing like you doing here?" The neko growled lowly with obvious amusement.

Kuroko stayed quiet for a moment, deciding how he wanted to approach the topic he wished to speak about. "..Someone sent me here to fight you."

"You want to fight?" The neko barked out a laughter as he walked a few steps away before he turned around with slitted dark eyes. "If you want to fight, then we can fight."

Kuroko narrowed his eyes a bit, he didn't see what was so funny. Though he didn't say anything, as he heard the other still accepted his challenge. "Then let's fight." He said, before getting into the same stance that Akashi told him to get into, wrapping his tail around his waist tightly.

The neko didn't bother, he rushed at Kuroko, swiping unmercifully at him with sharpened claws, uncaring if it was obvious that the other neko was weaker. They were all equals on the streets to him.

Kuroko was surprised, yes, but he was also fast. He quickly jumped back, eyes still narrowed. The other neko didn't even get into a stance, and already attacked. His tail was completely unguarded, and if Kuroko was lucky, he could just rip it off if he ever got close. This wasn't a smart neko.

The neko snorted, already seeing the look on Kuroko's face, and he turned, whipping the boy with his strong tail, intent on slamming him into the alley wall. No, he wasn't smart, but he was strong everywhere.

Kuroko didn't think anyone could use their tail in a fight, since it didn't have a lot of muscle to use. Though being hit by this tail, and having his back collide with the brick alley wall, he was completely surprised. Kuroko shook his head, not bothering to worry about his back.

The neko really didn't wait for the little neko to catch his bearings before he was on him, swiping and biting viciously in quick strikes. Blood covered his claws as they slashed wildly.

Kuroko's eyes widened, as he couldn't help but cry out slightly. He really wasn't expecting the attack, and it hurt badly. He needed to get out of this, to get out of here. Without thinking, he grabbed the others hair, claws sinking into his head, before pulling the other down and making their foreheads collide brutally.

It caused him to be slightly dizzy, but it would guarantee to stop the others attack. He kicked the others chest as best as he could, pushing him away, before quickly running down the alley.

The neko roared and went to chase after him, angry at himself for being bested by a neko that was barely older than a kitten from the looks of it. If word got out he would be the laughing stock of the city. He roared once more as he left the alley, look about wildly.

Kuroko didn't stop running, not wanting to slow down once and have the neko catch him again. He could have died, and he still could now. He didn't even think about returning to Akashi, as he ran further into the city. He ignored the looks from the humans and other nekos watching from the allies. Even if he wanted to go to Akashi, if the neko some how followed him, then he would be leading him right to Akashi.

Unfortunately for him, Akashi had decided against a nap of any sorts and had instead decided to go for a walk by himself to sort out his thoughts. He idly heard a neko roaring and snickered, assuming he had lost a prey.

Kuroko, in his running, had arrived to the marketplace. Though he remembered that those humans that captured their race would be here, so he scurried off, in case they were still there. He honestly did not know what to do, and he was really dizzy now. He didn't even notice the blood dripping from his forehead from headbutting that neko, not that his chest was now filled with new deep, bleeding slashes.

Even with his lack of presence, he must be completely visible from the blood dripping.

Akashi noticed a bit of light blue, a shade that was the same as Kuroko's hair, but he shook his head. No, Kuroko was still by the hillside...Right? Still something nagged at Akashi and he had long learned not to fight his instincts.

So he walked quickly to where he had seen the blue, pausing when he realized he was walking toward the marketplace. Did he dare for something he wasn't sure he saw right?

He remembered falling down once, as his run slowed into a walk. He guessed his vision got slow blurry he couldn't even tell which way was which. He would have just laid there, and maybe sleep off the pain, but the humans were still passing by, a few to stop by him.

He didn't want attention, so he forced himself to get up, and run off again, leaving the humans with nothing from him besides a small pool of blood that formed when he laid there.

The people were getting into a tizzy around him, speaking of blood on the ground. Akashi's eyes narrowed in suspicious before he ran off. It didn't take him long before he came up on the puddle of blood which had everyone off guard.

The bad feeling was back full force and he began to run, allowing his instincts to take over. He ran faster and faster hoping he wasn't too late to save whoever was bleeding so much.

Kuroko couldn't stand it anymore.

He was tired, exhausted even. When he went out to fight, he didn't suspect this would happen. It was his fault for being too cocky. The blood was already flowing down his legs, covering his feet, soaking his clothes. Kuroko slowly headed into the nearest alley, hugging himself loosely. Once he was far enough, he let himself collapse. He took deep breaths, closing his eyes.

Akashi saw spots of blood appear on the ground as he ran, forming a sort of trail and he followed it desperately, wondering why he was so scared. This was ridiculous. It was probably a stray who got into a fight, it happened every single day. So why did he have this sinking bad feeling?

Still, he followed onward until he came across a body, a red soaked body, huddled all alone in an alley. Akashi prayed that it would be a strangers face as he approached and his eyes widened when he recognized the face.

"Tetsuya!" Akashi shouted as he rushed to the neko's side. He was badly injured and he had lost a lot of blood. He would live though if Akashi hurried. He picked up Kuroko and ran faster than he ever had before, intent on going to his home and so he could use up all the medical supplies he could for the neko.

Hearing his name, he still didn't want to open his eyes. Though his mind processed the information, and he realized it was Akashi. Opening his eyes slightly, he looked up at Akashi, panting out heavily.

He winced visibly when he was picked up, but he barely moved. He just kind of went limp in Akashi's arms, laying his head against the others chest, not noticing he was just getting it bloody from his forehead.

Stubby. The name suddenly crossed his mind. He had followed his directions, and here he was. Though he couldn't think much of it, as he already lost consciousness in Akashi's arms.

Akashi made it to his home in record time, his legs near shaking with the strain, and he immediately went to work on Kuroko's wounds. He shouldn't have left Kuroko alone, this was on him. He had taken it up on himself to teach him to survive and he should have watched over him as such.

Akashi hissed to himself, his ears pressed flat to his skull, as he dressed Kuroko's copious wounds. He would live but it was going to take a while for him to heal.

By the time all the wounds were dressed, Akashi's paws were covered by blood, not that it could be seen against red fur but he could feel it matting his fur, drying slowly. Akashi walked over to the basin and began scrubbing.

Kuroko didn't wake up at all, even as he was laid down and treated. He wasn't sleeping peacefully, but he was sleeping. Even in his unconsciousness, he still could not forget the pain he felt when that neko mercilessly slashed into his chest, leaving him defenseless for himself.

His tail curled around him tightly, as he couldn't stop the small tears of pain from escaping since he was asleep.

The feeling of blood on his paws never quite left but his paws were cleaned soon enough. He walked over to Kuroko and licked the tears that were falling down his cheeks. This was how living in the streets was but Akashi had hoped that Kuroko wouldn't have to learn it this way.

"I'm sorry." Akashi said into Kuroko's ear. "I'll protect you next time. I promise you, I'll protect you."

He curled his body around Kuroko's, his tail covering the neko and he closed his eyes.

Even if Akashi had licked his tears away, they still lightly ran down his cheeks. Kuroko's ears twitched hearing Akashi speak, before they flattened against his head. Kuroko's own tail moved to lightly wrap around Akashi's fluffy one. After that, Kuroko didn't wake up, until almost two weeks later.