Author Note: Thanks for reading! I like this month's title (Fijian). It just looks pretty! Enjoy!

Julai

The Fourth of July consisted traditionally of three things: Fireworks, sparklers, and American Pride. John couldn't think of how ironic it was, spending this particular holiday in his current location.

Another blast went off from above, sending decent chunks of the building next to the cover he and Dorian were using. It took a good two minutes for the dust to settle, and John suppressed a cough. He pulled the tarp over their heads further, sinking close next to Dorian. "Happy Independence Day..." He muttered.

Dorian gave a strained smile, holding his side. In the veiled light, John watched as sparks slipped out from under Dorian's fingers. He rested his head onto John's shoulder. "Not gonna lie...this isn't good." Another jolt rushed through his body, and he hissed through his teeth. It wouldn't be long before he shut down completely, if he didn't get to Rudy.

John nearly responded, but then he froze. Heavy footsteps rushed past them.

"We need to find them!" Someone hissed.

"We will," another replied. "Another day. The DRN got jacked, so they shouldn't be far."

Finally, the footsteps faded. More gunshots in the distance could be heard, which was unsettling. John held his breath. He clung to Dorian, eyes shut tight, and couldn't relax until he heard a quiet whisper next to him.

"They're gone."

John finally nodded. He was shaking; they were way in over their heads with this assignment, and neither of them was in good condition. Dorian was on low energy and been shot several times. John had hit his head about an hour ago, and the dizziness was catching up to him. He'd bumped into a nasty slab of brick, and didn't bet against a cracked rib. He pulled his phone out to call Richard, but Dorian stopped him sharply. "No, they'll track us. We have to get out of here on our own two feet." The DRN's voice staggered through octaves, and his eyes flickered. "Sorry, John."

John shook his head, and pressed his forehead against Dorian's. "It's okay. We're gonna make it. These InSyndicate wannabes aren't getting the best of us."

Dorian smiled tiredly. In truth, it couldn't be explained who was behind it, but whoever it was, they weren't amateurs. They were details Dorian didn't want to worry about at the moment, and focused more on getting his legs to work as John hosted him up. He groaned and said, "Thanks, man."

John held him the best he could, and the two limped from the alleyway. With each step his head pounded, and he was starting to feel sick. "When this is over, I really need a vacation..."

Dorian grinned. "Am I invited?"

John shrugged noncommittally. "Yeah, I guess you could tag along."

They managed to made it out of the alley they'd been forced into, and promptly contacted Maldonado. They were picked up by the ambulance shortly, and John was ushered into the back. He was given initial examination, then the medics gave the okay to head to the hospital. Before the doors closed, John looked at Dorian. "Glad you're okay," he whispered.

Dorian stepped in quickly, and kissed his forehead. "Glad you are, too, John. I'm going back to the lab; I'll be all patched up by the time you return. I hold your word to that vacation."

John smiled wryly and nodded.