Wouldn't you know it, when I was about 85% done with this chapter my video card and cooling system fry in my PC. Three days after getting a new one delivered I have this posted for you all. I had originally wanted to down play the 2x5x2 a bit more in the last two scenes with them, that changed a bit. This chapter is half lore it feels like, with the origin stories of both the 2+4 and the 3+5 relationships, as well as a few other histories here and there. I am hoping that those of you who have waited for an update of this fic will be happy with what they got. Enough about all of this on to the fic.
WarNinGs: History heavy, German language not translated word for word, OOCs I hope you will like.
Aishi Say
"Everywhere I'm looking now
I'm surrounded by your embrace
Baby, I can see your halo
You know you're my saving grace
You're everything I need and more
It's written all over your face
Baby, I can feel your halo
Pray it won't fade away..."
For those of you who suck at singer/song names this is form 'Halo' by Beyonce Knowles. It gets stuck in my head and I feel suits the chapter pretty well.
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Wufei frowned slightly as he scanned the report displayed on the tablet he was holding, like Trowa he did have work to do for the family. Shipping was largely handled by the family on the mainland, he made a few suggestions and comments but was please to not have to deal with those headaches. He was much more useful making contacts in other countries because of his friendship with Trowa. The American who had spent half of his life in Europe was very good at weeding out scams and otherwise unwise business deals. The Long's shipping arrangement with the Yui's was but one of the deals Trowa had helped to broker. The fact the young man had a respect for their culture, as well as a pleasant demeanor, kept the Longs very happy with Trowa. Wufei glanced up when he sensed a presence more then heard anyone. Trowa was practicing alone, his personal tablet sitting on the edge of the benches that lined the far wall. The dark wood and tan mats of the room were familiar and soothing, he did not feel right if he did not spend at least a few hours a day there. Trowa turned his head before nodding to him, nodding back he decided a break might just be in order. "Been here long?"
"Not really, automated tests don't need me, and the Old Man hasn't given me any projects since he decided to drag us along." Trowa answered use to such conversations with Wufei, they were really the only ones to use this room, unless Hiro was visiting.
Wufei nodded, nothing out of the ordinary, it was nice to see not everything was changing. "Duo called this morning."
"He doesn't waste time does he?" Trowa was fine with how things were working out in general.
Wufei smirked back as he fell into a defensive position, "Not all of you Americans are content to just sit around waiting for something to happen. It seems he has some interest in marital arts."
Trowa chuckled at Wufei's teasing as he struck, sparring with his friend was second nature to him. "You sound approving, interesting."
"It is refreshing to met a Westerner who understands Eastern culture, even if he needs a bit of schooling." Wufei was aware that not all Westerners where ignorant of other cultures as they were their own histories, Duo had not had a proper teacher which was easily rectified.
Trowa nodded as he dodged, "I would be happy to extend an invitation if you feel it is not your place to. Duo is a free thinker, they make the most interesting sparring partners."
Wufei smiled, Trowa was often reassuring him he was welcome to treat his home as if it was theirs, neither had much respect for Mr. Barton. "He wishes to see if Quatre would enjoy a lesson as well, if not I will see to him."
Trowa frowned when his phone went off, sighing he walked over to the benches and hit talk. "No, that's fine. Rache just tell them no, if they give you any lip have them escorted out. I have already warned them about trying to lord over anything, none of them are talented enough to not be easily replaced. Expense a nice long lunch, I will." Ending the call he turned back to Wufei, "If you need anything just let me know."
"Work calling?" Wufei knew Rachelle rather well, she was a very competent assistant as long as large groups of people were not yelling at her.
Trowa sighed as he ran his fingers through his long bangs, "Just egos clashing again. Looks like I will have to put in a personal appearance sometime this week."
Wufei shook his head, management came with its own unique headaches, "Hard to do with Mr. Barton dragging you around lately."
"It still kills him I don't share my toys," Trowa chuckled a cynically amused chuckle before shrugging. "It can wait until we know if Duo and Quatre wish for some lessons, you sure you want to work with a novice?"
"Normally no, however, they are not a bunch of cocky fools who think Kung Fu movies are the greatest thing ever invented." Wufei did not understand Americans glorifying and vilifying aspects of other cultures, sometimes contradicting themselves by doing both at once. Every culture had things to be proud and ashamed of, his own was very old where America was still a child compared to the other super powers of the world.
"Only in teasing. I guess I should go check in and figure out when would be the best day this week to head in, and not just to crush a few egos." Trowa had planned on getting back to the 'office' once the Old Man was finished in Vegas, and so finished with him for the moment.
"Work before friends in this case, it is not as if you ignore them constantly as many driven individuals do." Now and then everyone got caught up in something, Barton worked hard but did not ignore those around him for long periods of time. Wufei was no better so he had no place to chide, not that he had any family here to ignore if he chose.
Trowa chuckled, laying his hand on Wufei's shoulder, "Thanks Fei. I'll text you when I have a time frame in case Duo calls you instead of Quatre calling me."
Wufei half smirked at the chuckle, use to the other's dismissal of praise, "One good scare and things will run smoothly for weeks. I will say hello for you."
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"Caaaaat?" Duo cooed as he flopped down in the nice comfy chair across from his friend, who was reading some report or other.
"Hm?" Quatre responded noncommittally, use to Duo teasing him while trying to work.
"Wanna go play ninja?" Duo knew he was using the wrong term but he wanted to be sure to get Quatre's attention, ninja was a great word for that.
Quatre looked up, dark eyes blinking at his sometimes confusing friend, "Ninja? What are you talking about?"
Duo grinned, chin in his hands, "So glad you asked. I called Wufei this morning, and it seems he is willing to give me some lessons in martial arts."
Quatre frowned slightly, was it racist to think a Chinese born young man knowing martial arts made sense? "I am sure you will have fun, but what does that have to do with me?"
"Cy knows some moves too duh, and since you aren't big on people getting shot it would do you some good to learn how to relieve people of guns." Duo would not mind playing with them both, Wufei did not mind it when he bantered with Trowa, at least he did not appear to. Quatre he knew did not, since the blonde knew it was perfectly harmless and so nothing to get jealous over.
Quatre frowned a bit deeper as Duo answered, fingers curled near his chin, Duo's logic while sometimes roundabout was often surprisingly sound. "You mean I should take full advantage like you plan to?"
Duo grinned at the knowing tone, Quatre may be more proper but he knew his best friend very well, "I think Wufei can take care of himself, if he really wants to. Now shall I call Wufei, or do you call Trowa?"
Quatre shook his head, it was no wonder Duo and Trowa got along so well they had a similar sense of humor. "I will leave that to you. I have a little work to do, or I'll feel guilty while you are playing."
"Can't have that, don't worry no surprises promise." Duo did want a serious lesson, mostly serious anyway, and pranks and serious lessons did not mix unless it was payback related.
Quatre nodded, Duo was a man of his word even if he was an imp, "Say hello to Wufei for me, and thank you."
Duo just nodded with a smile as Quatre headed out, likely to fetch something, pulling out his phone he hit Wufei's number. Quatre would have fun when there was no work nagging him, not that he blamed the kid for being dedicated. Helping people was an awesome day job, he was more hands on then management himself. At a faint chuckle he smiled, didn't matter what Wufei had been chucking about, "Ni hao Fei."
"Ni hao Duo, I was hoping Quatre would allow you to call." Wufei greeted, still smiling thanks to seeing Duo's name on his phone.
"Oh?" Duo prompted, he did enjoy being complimented, who didn't really.
"Trowa is sort of working right now, it seems he will have to make an appearance." Wufei rubbed the bridge of his nose, intelligence sadly did not always come with enlightenment or common sense.
Duo pouted a little when Wufei answered, he couldn't stay even a little jealous of Trowa for long, "Cat is doing a little work too, no personal appearances though. He would like a lesson too, not big on guns."
Wufei nodded, it would shock him to find out the blonde liked guns, "They have their uses but lack grace. If you wish for a lesson in firearms you will have to ask Trowa."
Duo considered that, he had no objections to learning to shot as well as ass whoop, "I will keep that in mind. Hey you going to be busy while Cy is busy with work?"
"I am not needed, why you hoping to keep me company?" Wufei had come with just to watch the Lab Coats sputter and flinch, though this time it might by worth convincing Quatre to tag along.
Duo grinned, Wufei came off all stern but he had a mean streak, "Well if Cat goes to save the poor whoevers then I will be all lonely."
"Lab Coats, and Quatre is likely the only one who would care to try." It would be amusing to see, no doubt, however the thought of speeding a few hours getting to know Duo a bit better was more appealing at the moment.
"Oooh that means I get to talk Cat into a little field trip, love doing that by the way, good times." Duo's mind was already working, he could get all the details after the bonding times were over. There was nothing wrong with seeing his friends were entertained, legally, while he was having fun as well.
Wufei closed his eyes, allowing himself to smile but not laugh, it was too easy to laugh around Duo. "I will see Trowa invites him, it might amuse the blonde to see Trowa serious for a change."
Duo chuckled at that, he adored Trowa's sense of humor which he was well aware was on par with his own. "Just don't break him alright? Cat would hate you, awkwardness would then ensue, not good."
Wufei shook his head, looking up when he sensed another enter the room, "Trowa, have a moment?"
Trowa turned, lowering his mug as he leaned against the counter, "Plenty until Thursday, is Nataku mad at you again?"
Wufei rolled his eyes, ignoring Duo asking for details, "Remind me why I am thankful you two get along later. Is tomorrow all right for lessons?"
"Sounds like a pleasant way to spend an afternoon, Hiro already knows I going in Thursday so he's planning on nagging me then."All joking aside Trowa did not mind it most of the time Hiro nagged him, it was always about some important instead of something from some gossip column.
"Speaking of Hiro perhaps he would nag you a bit less if he got to know Quatre a little better, and seeing what you do besides banter with Duo could not hurt." Wufei knew what nagging meant when used in teasing, sometimes it sure felt like Trowa did not listen even when he was.
Trowa frowned thinking Wufei's logic over, "Not working on anything classified right now so that won't be an issue...You worried about the Lab Coats again?"
Wufei shrugged, "If you do not wish to show your new friend where you work I am sure Duo would not mind him coming to another lesson."
Trowa half smirked at the tone, Wufei could play head games when he really wanted to, "Sounds better then you don't trust me not to traumatize anyone with you not around to stop me."
"Precisely, the fact his family works in the Middle East, and so will come in handy with how the world is at the moment, sounds petty." Wufei did not like playing good people anymore then Trowa did, jerks were a whole other story.
Trowa chuckled softly, true as that was none of them would think that was the only reason, "Perhaps I do rub off? As long as Quatre is willing so am I, see you tomorrow Duo."
Duo smirked as he listened to the pair banter, best friends no doubt about it, laughing when Trowa acknowledged him, so cute. "Nicely done Wufei, very amusing."
Wufei smiled, it seemed so silly to have ever disliked the cheerful young man traditional up bring could be hard to ignore sometimes. "He is a fine teacher. I think a lesson followed by dinner would be ideal for tomorrow, we will send a car for you both around 1 if that is all right?"
"That all sounds great to me, yeah for plans. I'll fill Cat in about the next two days, and we'll figure out our lesson tomorrow. You take care of yourself now Mr. Chang," Duo hated to go but plans needed to be worked on.
"I assure you I will Mr. Maxwell," Wufei hung up after Duo chuckled, smiling he turned and got to his feet. While he had little work to do he did need to inform Trowa of tomorrow's timing, and find out if he had a set time for work so he could pass it along to Duo.
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"Cat, Sweetie, pretty sure when Wufei said 1 he meant 1, strikes me as that kind of guy." Duo was dressed casually in black slacks and a dark violet button down, sleeves folded to his elbows, tucked in. It was nice as well as easy to get on and off, since they would be changing.
Quatre shook his head as he came down stairs, white slacks and navy shirt similar to Duo's attire, the white vest was not. "Sending a car means they will not be in it Duo."
Duo frowned as Quatre buttoned his right sleeve, perfectly calm, "Oh like that is a law now? Why are you not all nervous about getting all up and personal with your cute friend?"
"Because his manners are better then yours," Quatre answered with mock arrogance as he opened the door. Smiling politely at the female chauffeur, "Your timing is impeccable."
The young woman smiled as she opened the door for the pretty blonde, her boss had fine taste, "It is why Trowa hired me Mr. Winner."
"So you are Trowa's personal driver then?" Duo asked as he scooted in leaving Quatre outside with the cute ginger.
"Holly and yes, use to drive a taxi but this gig not only pays better but I am able to met interesting people." Holly winked her green hazel eyes at the brunette, he had a great smile.
Quatre studied the petite driver, her accent was not a cliché New York one but there was a bit of one there, it gave her character. "Seems he enjoys collecting interesting help."
"Only kind he ever stands, now please get in and open your gift sir." Holly smiled at the confused blonde but he slipped inside quickly, closing the door she headed to the front of the car.
"Gift?" Quatre asked, blinking when Duo set a large flat box in his lap. Navy blue was fitted with a white bow and ribbon. Opening the card he smiled at the handwritten note, little touches made things more meaningful. ' Quatre R. Winner. Mr. Chang reminded me it would be in bad taste for you to receive a lesson without proper attire. While blue is an acceptable color for gi, pronounced gee, most white belts wear white, it also looks good on you. I am looking forward to seeing you in it, stop blushing now before Duo starts teasing you. Trowa Barton.' Opening the box he ran his fingers over the soft white materiel, "Duo?"
"Always wanted a real one of these things," Duo looked up from his black one, not surprised Quatre's was white. "Can I like barrow yours for like a day to say thank you a lot?"
Quatre giggled, Duo was joking mostly, "Wufei mentioned them so you should thank your own."
"OK an hour then, sure he had something to do with it. Thanks for agreeing to all of this, I know fighting is not your fave thing in the world." Duo understood why, he did not enjoy beating on people in general either.
Quatre nodded, turning his attention to Trowa's half serious half teasing note, "Learning to fight is a logical thing to do with my life, and I know both Trowa and Wufei will be as professional as I require. It is best to learn from someone I trust, if they happen to be attractive that is a bonus."
Duo grinned, his blonde buddy had come a long way from the sheltered kinda bratty guy he had met and saw potential in. "Amen to that good buddy, this is way better then twins."
Quatre frown slightly as he tilted his head at Duo, "Never fully got that one."
"Well besides having two hot people all over you, and not in the crazy jealous way, it is a universal fantasy staple. Cutie with cute best friend and no jealous hang ups is way better then some fantasy...unless they both have twins then I'm just going to have a heart attack right then and there." Duo could have fun with it but he would rather have only one Wufei to dote on rather then two doting on him, fantasies were fun to day dream about after all.
Quatre considered his friends answer, the thoughts could be nice but the reality would be less pleasing, "I am sure they would both agree with you."
Duo nodded but did not say anything right away, he was not paying the blonde a ton of attention. Sighing he closed his eyes, half formed ideas about fun times to come forming and unforming in his head, "Respect the mad genius."
Quatre smiled at Duo, his friend clearly heading off to a million miles away, "Usually do."
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"I had no idea these were so comfy, love it!" Duo twirled around, braid whipping like a tail, happy as could be. Walking out he smiled at Quatre, who looked adorable in all white, "Almost as cute as me."
Quatre looked up and grinned at Duo, who was as happy as a child in a toy store, it was infectious, "I try."
Duo laughed, hooking Quatre's arm as he lead his blonde friend out of the small locker room and into the dojo. Dark wood and pale mats were surprisingly homey, screens adorned with Asian ink paintings were set up to split the room in two. "Pretty huh?"
Quatre nodded as he studied the simple designs, they were very lovely in their simplicity, which he believed was the point of the style. "Do they always look like this?"
"The screens no but most I have seen are similar yeah, bet this is all imported," Duo tested a mat with his toes, it was nice and not at all like American gym mats.
"Hiro and Wufei hate knock offs as much as I do. Don't you two look adorable," Trowa smirked when the pair looked up, people were always forgetting how quiet he was.
Quatre looked up when he heard Trowa's voice, the other pair had come from the other side of the room completely unnoticed until Trowa spoke up. The green eyed young man was dressed in black, like Duo, his long bangs tied back into a short tail, remaining bangs hanging a bit past his eyebrows. Walking up to him Quatre smiled, that smirk could be an evil thing. "Thank you for the Gi, it is very comfortable."
Wufei nodded at Quatre approvingly before walking up to Duo, his black uniform looked good with his darker hair. "You seem to be enjoying yours a bit more."
Duo grinned at Wufei, not surprised he was in white, he was more traditional then Trowa, "What can I say I adore thoughtful gifts, and I am not as proper as Quatre. Black is more modern and suits me better, like white suits you."
Wufei smiled at the compliment, while not the most elegant speaker Duo was honest and heartfelt, which was by far more important. "I am glad you approve. Come we can talk more once we begin."
Quatre watched Duo and Wufei exchange a few words before Wufei walked off with him, "You won't be disappointed if I turn out to be a bad student will you?"
Trowa shook his head, hands resting on the blonde's shoulders, "Don't worry about that, I have plenty of friends who don't like to fight. You aren't going to shy away from me because I enjoy fighting, you are not that limited."
"Limited?" Quatre asked tilting his head, curious about what exactly Trowa meant by that.
"Closed minded, self righteous, what ever similar insult you may prefer." Trowa was use to dealing with many different types of people thanks to his line of work, and various hobbies entirely legal or otherwise.
Quatre smiled, Duo had a similar opinion on such people, "It is a more interesting insult then close minded." Trowa smirked at that, as Quatre had hoped, "Did you learn because of Hiro and Wufei?"
"I had an interest before I met either of them, though I have expanded my collection of belts since then. Did you ever consider learning any sort of fighting techniques before Duo suggested it?" Trowa knew why he had gotten into martial arts, friends aside, but he did not know Quatre's history yet.
"Not exactly, Duo loves martial arts movies, and not the Hollywood version aside from Chan and Lee of course." Quatre caught a nod that could only mean of course, real talent was real talent, "I never seriously considered it until Duo brought it up. Learning to disarm thugs is not a bad thing to know even if you are not an heir."
"It comes in handy, and there is less paperwork when you do not stab or shot your attacker., unsafe hobby stories you likely still don't want to hear." Trowa did not mind inflicting damage and harm to fools and bullies, it could make vacations a bit more interesting,
Quatre shook his head, he would have to have a talk with Trowa about his more dangerous hobbies, just not right now. "Not right now no, and thank you for being so understanding about that."
Trowa smiled, leaning down he gave Quatre a peck on the cheek, "All too easy. Now when you strike mean it, you will not hurt me so do not hold back."
Quatre smiled back, more then happy with how well they were able to communicate, "Just don't break my hand when I hit you."
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"Knew Cat would enjoy a lesson, maybe I should start a blog and take on Abby?" Duo rather liked the idea of playing the sassy gay friend to the droves of poor lost straight people online.
Wufei shook his head, Duo was adorably energetic, "Any reason why you haven't"
Duo turned, grinning up at Wufei, "Are you being all encouraging and junk there Wufei?"
Wufei smiled, ruffling Duo's hair, "Perhaps. Now did you have something special in mind?"
"Can you teach me some surefire ways to break common holds? I may not be stupid rich like Cat, but I am still a decent target." Duo knew all about the ransom racket the rich and powerful had to deal with, he had theory Cy had learned to fight partly because of that. Some people did not do victim, and if you put yourself in situations where kidnapping and the like were a real issue then knowing how to fight and even kill would come in handy.
Wufei frowned in thought, Duo joked around but he knew how dangerous the world could be, or at least had a very good idea. A lesson on holds could become nothing but an excuse to fool around but Duo was serious, not that he would not joke around a little. "I will be happy to teach you what I can, as is Trowa. Now if you wish to warm up feel free."
Duo nodded as he began doing some basic stretching, they were easy to do while talking. "I know that silly, and we are grateful. Don't go all frowny on me now Senshi, as cute as that makes you." Grinning at the half smirk he rolled his shoulders before nodding, "All right come at me bro."
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Quatre squirmed, hands effectively pinned behind his back, looking up he frowned at Trowa's amused smirk, "This is the least likely way a kidnapper would pin me."
"Kidnapper yes, stalker not so much, you are in America right now." Trowa knew a thing or two about stalkers, they did not stalk him or his friends long.
Quatre had not really had a problem with stalkers since he usually had Duo with him, "Personal experience?"
Trowa shrugged, "Now and then someone does not take a hint, no one who could take me." Drunk or arrogant people were nothing compared to who he had stared down outside of the U.S. of A.
Quatre was not surprised really, he had just stood there starring at Trowa when they first met, not that Trowa had minded him doing it. Duo had flirted a little, all of it half joking, and that had not been minded either. It seemed friendly harmless people could get away with things the general public would get hissed at for. Testing Trowa's hold again he wondered just how much pressure those graceful fingers could generate when they wished to inflict pain. "If you were Duo I would accuse you of doing this simply because you could."
"And how do you know I am not?" Trowa asked curious, ignoring Quatre's movements.
Quatre smiled knowingly, "You haven't tried to kiss me."
"Ah, a very sound theory, except you forgot one little thing," Trowa reminded the blonde, keeping his hold firm but gentle.
Quatre frowned slightly, half jokes and teasing aside he was curious, Trowa was very good at keeping his attention, "What is this one little thing I have forgotten?"
Trowa smirked at his teasing captive, "I am more patient then Duo." Quatre blinked before he smiled at that answer, leaning close Trowa kissed him softly as he let the blonde go.
Quatre smiled at Trowa's answer, he had a valid point, dark eyes closed with a smile, giggling when he felt Trowa smile back. "Still have the same excellent sense of timing."
Trowa chuckled, if he did not know Duo he might be insulted when Quatre compared him to his best friend. "Great minds and all of that."
Quatre smiled, Duo had been right about playing ninja, "So very true."
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Duo squirmed but he was not getting up anytime soon unless Wufei let him up, "You know being held down like this would likely be more fun if we weren't wearing clothes."
Wufei rolled his eyes, Duo's joke was not entirely inaccurate, "You are free to try and remove yours if that would amuse you."
Duo turned to look at Wufei, not as easy to do when being held down, "I bet Trowa would agree with me."
"You are not training with him," Wufei reminding him, not contradicting the other's muttered comment in any way.
Duo blinked before he frowned, Wufei's tone did not make his true statement sound like anything but one. "Go ancient Rome."
Wufei shook his head before leaning close, "You Americans can be extremely...feisty."
Duo chuckled, Wufei was an amusing opponent, even if he was for keeping his clothes on for the time being. "Don't you know it. All right uncle, mercy, whatever just let me up my neck is cramping up here." Sitting up he rubbed the back of his neck, "Much better. Gotta admit that was a lot of fun, even if it was a bit cricky at the end there."
"I am sure Quatre's neck is in better shape." Wufei knew his friend's skill, he had gotten much better since their initial sparring, they both had.
"Cat isn't as use to scrapping as I am so duh, I guess we should all get cleaned up and head out to a place where total strangers feed us." Duo was ready for a change of pace, and Wufei did not seem to mind.
Wufei frowned for a moment before nodding, getting to his feet he held out his hand, "Agreed."
Duo took Wufei's hand, smiling when he helped him up, "Love it when you agree with me."
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"Duo, Wufei," Quatre greeted when the pair entered, clearly their lessons were over as well.
"Cat, Cy," Duo replied with a nod of his head, "Wufei and I have decided it's about time we go do the getting fed by total strangers thing. Thoughts?"
Trowa raised a brow with a smirk before turning to the blonde, "Quatre do you have any objections?"
Quatre shook his head, use to Duo's unique way of phrasing things, "None at all, see you both soon then."
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"I will assume by the happy little smile you have plastered on that simply adorable little face of yours lessons went well hm?" Duo was not surprised Quatre had an absent smile on his face, he had planned on them all have a bit of fun.
"hm?" Quatre murmured, titling his head slightly, "Was that not the point?"
Duo stretched, glad he hadn't gotten too sweaty one way or the other, "Having fun while learning some useful skills yes. Please tell me you were not all proper?"
Quatre shook his head at his best friend as he pulled his vest back on, "No more then Wufei was."
Duo grinned, Wufei had been a mostly serious teacher, "Good." Walking out of the dressing room he noted the screens had been removed, "When?"
"Not long. Perhaps a lesson in situational awareness is in order?" Trowa mused from behind the pair, black clad arms loosely folded.
Quatre turned to face Trowa and an amused Wufei, "You enjoy doing that don't you?"
Trowa shrugged slightly, "I don't just resembled a cat remember?"
Duo was starting to wonder if that was a natural talent or a trick he had learned, "I would have gone with 'because I'm Batman', but hey that's me."
Trowa chuckled shaking his head, "I don't do capes."
Wufei chuckled, it was nice seeing his friends happy even if he had little to nothing to do with it, "Terrible for flipping around."
"From Batman to Nightwing, Cat are you following along all right?" Duo turned to the blonde who was not a comic buff of any kind, not that Batman and Nightwing were obscure names by any means.
"I do not read comics but yes, I always did like that shade of blue." Quatre had not met many people who would not know those names, people liked their stories.
Trowa considered how that distinctive shade of blue would look on the blonde for a moment, "Fetching shades of blue aside Holly is waiting for us."
"Nice girl, I totally get why you snagged her," He hadn't known Holly long but he had liked her right away, Duo was a pretty good at judging people like that.
"Good people are worth the cost of acquiring, one of the few things the Old Man was right about." Trowa had paid attention to every lesson, even if his way of doing business was radically different from his 'father's'.
Wufei nodded, a good businessman and a good man were not necessary one and the same, "Good help and all of that. You planing on spending most of tomorrow working, or only as long as you need to?"
Trowa sighed, it was not something he had decided just yet, "Likely as long as I need, though if Quatre finds the labs interesting I will not rush him out."
"That would be rather rude," Wufei agreed. "I will keep Duo amused, he has an interest in Asian culture much like you. It seems my instincts are not as sharp as yours."
Trowa smiled at his friend, hand resting on his shoulder, "Keep a brotherly eye on me for those rare times mine are dull and I won't hold that against you."
Wufei smiled placing a hand over Trowa's, his touch was warmer now that he was no longer a stranger, "At least my instincts about you were not dull. Take Quatre on ahead I will see Duo is aware of tomorrow's schedule."
Trowa nodded as he pulled his hand away, curling a finger at Quatre as he turned leaving Wufei as he requested. "He wants to make sure he and Duo are on the same page for tomorrow since we are. You look a little concerned still, why?"
"It just seemed you two were having a moment," Quatre bit his lip slightly, he did not wish to pry but Trowa had asked.
"He is still a bit embarrassed about his quick judgment of you two, it was not a moment you need to feel you intruded on." Trowa smiled reassuringly, it was sweet of Quatre to worry about the more private Wufei.
Quatre smiled up at Trowa, knowing if he said Wufei would not be upset then Wufei would not be upset, "You are a good friend to have around."
"Even in a firefight," Trowa winked as started walking again, opening the door he smiled at Holly who grinned back at him. "You seem happy, care to share?"
"I approve of your new friends Trowa, they suit you well. I look forward to getting to know Duo a little more tomorrow since you gave me to Wufei for the day." Holly liked the imp with violet eyes, job perks were a wonderful thing.
Quatre smiled a bit more at the praise, the knowledge that Holly would be with Wufei and Duo tomorrow did not surprise him. "You have any other drivers?"
"One in Europe, and Wufei has one back home who seems to like me even if I am a Westerner." Trowa smirked a little so Quatre knew she did not mean that in a negative way, mostly. "Holly comes with the family, though Sis is the only other person she'll drive for."
"Well you ain't the only one who does not care to spend much time with his Highness, thank the stars you are not his kin by blood." Holly knew what Mr. Barton was like, it was why she never called Trowa by his last name.
Trowa nodded absently, those who worked for him were loyal to him and Wufei not the Old Man, "Another reason to keep you around."
"Hey again Holly, so everyone good on the time line for tomorrow?" Duo was looking forward to spending at least half the day with Wufei, and most of what was left with his other new friend.
Quatre looked to Trowa who nodded slightly, "Basic time line yes. Did anyone decided on where we should eat?"
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Quatre sighed, glancing at Duo who was showing Wufei one of the many games his phone had for long trips and lines. Turning to Trowa who was sitting beside him, cheek resting on his fist smirking slightly now and then at the other pair he smiled. Dark green turned to him, glinting in passing lights from outside. "I think I will fall asleep as soon as I get home."
"Not an entirely bad idea," Trowa had not planed on going in early and now he had another reason for a late morning.
Quatre closed his eyes, he was tried but it was a good tried, "Lazy kitty."
Trowa arched a brow before chuckling softly, "Now and then."
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Wufei frowned at the detailed artwork on the cards as Duo played, Anime style had become very popular. Trowa was absently watching the city pass as he half listened to mostly Duo talk, Quatre looking half awake beside him. They talked a little but the blonde seemed content to just be near them all. "You play this often?"
"This and Marvel Avenger's Alliance, I refuse to play Framville or Candy Crush, but I am a sucker for Superheroes so..." Duo shrugged as he won, looking up he grinned at Wufei, the colored lights playing off his white shirt. "It takes talent to keep a white shirt white at a buffet."
Wufei chuckled softly, Duo did enjoy amusing those around him, "I have been in America for a few years."
"Been here eighty percent of my life since I met Cat. It can be a bit intimidating going to a new place and not speaking the language." Duo was American but he did try and learn about other place, it took longer to learn a tongue then it did to learn why a place was interesting.
"It can be," Wufei agreed with a with a slightly absent nod, he had already learned English before he had met Trowa.
"Not for him?" Duo asked nodding at Trowa, who was glancing at Quatre rather then out the window.
Wufei shook his head, "He has a talent for such things, he is also skilled in 'faking it' as you Americans like to say."
Duo nodded, act confident and people responded, simple really, "Not you?"
"I am not as comfortable in my non-comfort areas, something he has been slowly working on as you have been with Quatre." Wufei was a more personal and traditionally minded person, like Quatre, where Duo was more progressive and expressive, like Trowa if he liked you.
Duo smiled a little at Wufei's admittance of weakness, it was not easy for prideful people to admit failings, and Asians were traditionally taught to be reserved and proud. "Well I have found it is generally best to surround yourself with people who complement you rather then compliment you. "
Wufei smiled a bit at the brunette's logic, pleasantly surprised he knew the difference between complement and compliment. "Very sound," frowning slightly when the car stopped he nodded slightly, "I am looking forward to an extended lesson tomorrow."
Duo grinned, shy was so cute on some people, "I look forward to learning something new."
Quatre opened his eyes catching Duo's grin as he said his goodbyes, "Do not stay up all night playing with the Zero."
Trowa gave him an affronted look before grinning, "I promise no playing, tinkering, or anything else with the Zero tonight."
Nodding Quatre existed the car, sticking his head back inside he smiled at Wufei, "Good night Wufei."
"Good night Quatre," Wufei replied with a slight incline of his head.
Duo smiled at Quatre as he closed his door, "See ya tomorrow Cyke."
"Night Braid," Trowa teased back with a half salute, turning to Wufei when Duo closed his door with a chuckle. "Both you and Quatre seem to be getting over being shy."
Wufei glanced at his best friend when he spook to him, ankles crossing on the seat Duo had been occupying until moments ago. "Letting your friends see you is not such a bad thing."
Trowa chuckled softly, "No it not, as long as you choose your friends well."
Wufei smiled at that, that was true for so many things, "Always helps." Dark eyes caught the other smirk but neither said anything more, they didn't have to.
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Duo sipped his coffee as he considered just what he wanted out of that day's upcoming lesson. So far he had just let things happen at their own pace, rushing often lead to burn outs. Sighing softly he looked up when Quatre sat down, "Morning Cat."
"Good morning Duo," Quatre greeted before looking up, Duo looked thoughtful but not necessarily in need of sharing. "I will try and give you enough time for a nice long lesson."
Duo grinned at his best friend, a saint in the making even if he wasn't Catholic, "Worry more about those poor little Lab Coats, thanks tough."
Quatre nodded, nibbling on a piece of toast, "Not at all. I am still not sure how I am going to explain all of this to Rashid let alone Father...perhaps I should allow Trowa to do it."
"I'd let them get to know the guy first, once they see he is is harmless like me then you can finish the story, or he can, whichever." Duo shrugged, no one he would be telling would be overly shocked, and he was not sure what Wufei's family situation was exactly.
Quatre frowned, it would be best not to spring his full relationship with Trowa on his family, Trowa would not be mentioning him to his father anytime soon unless he was leaving. "That would be for the best really, at least he will not be offended."
"Pissy family members are a pain for any type of relationship, glad I don't have those. Kinda sucks we'll all be separated in a few more days. Just when we were all getting along so well and everything." Duo was looking forward to the holidays but those were months off, he did not like the idea of not seeing Wufei or Trowa in person for months.
Quatre sighed nodding, it was not something he was excited about either, "They do not seem to stay 'home' for long periods of time so I am sure we will be able to meet them again soon."
Duo smiled a little at that, he had gotten that impression, "Too true." Snatching his cell from the table he grinned, "Latter Kitten." Leaning in he kissed a pale cheek as he passed, not really hearing the goodbye as he made his way to the front door. "Yoness," Duo greeted with a casual smirk,
Holly grinned back, "Duo." Leading him to car she opened the door, closing it after him and humming softly as she returned to the driver's seat.
Wufei glanced up from his phone as Duo sat down grinning, he was so energetic, "Bright eyed and bushy tailed I see."
Duo titled his head, "Always made me think of a squirrel, but yep."
Wufei shook his head amused, texting a quick reply to Trowa that he had successfully picked up Duo and was heading out. "I never gave that idiom much thought, though a squirrel does fit it rather well."
"Love that whole warrior scholar thing," Duo half teased as he glanced at the phone, sure it was either work, Trowa, or possibly both.
Wufei smirked as he looked up, a few stray bangs hanging in his equally dark eyes, "How fortunate for you."
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"You worry too much Rashid, I am touring a lab not a military base." Quatre knew Rashid worried, as he did, but Trowa would not allow anything to happen to him barring an accident.
Rashid frowned arms crossed, he remembered the picture his friends had shown him, "You are not a scientist."
"No, but I do dabble in engineering, and he works with some form around the world." Quatre preferred machines to chemicals, less Latina for starters.
Rashid nodded absently, he preferred more piratical hand on science himself as well, "And this personal tour?"
"The younger Mr. Barton has heard of our families work in relief efforts and since this is an interest of his he wished to discus our various resources and see if our families can help each other. Since we are both in town he saw no reason why we could not do so in person and now, and I agreed." Not entirely lying Quatre moved to answer the door. "Americans are not all arrogant know it all's."
"Not all of us no Mr. Winner. You must be Rashid, the pleasure is mine. I am Trowa Barton, but please feel free to call me just Trowa if you prefer." Trowa held out his hand use to dealing with all shorts of people thanks to his job and his hobbies.
Rashid regarded the young man in black, nothing about him set off alarms though he did look different in a suit. Accepting his hand he nodded, "I am Rashid yes, Master Quatre speaks highly of you."
"As I am sure he does anyone he wishes you to trust his care too. Your Master will be returned safe and sound with Duo in toe this evening, or you are free to seek my head to display on a pike." Trowa decided he could get to like the stern looking man, given a little time.
Rashid blinked before sneering a little, he had Duo's confidence all right, "Agreed then."
"Oh honestly the both of you," Quatre muttered hands up, at least they were getting along. Walking up to Trowa he jabbed his chest with a finger, "If I am more then rumpled Rashid can think of plenty of things to do to you without you suggesting anymore. I will call once we get there so do try not to worry old friend."
Rashid grinned at his friend, he just wanted the world to get along, "I trust the young man to see you safely returned so go help people."
Quatre smiled up at Rashid before exiting the door and closing it behind him, "I was wondering when I would see you in a suit."
Trowa chuckled, "I only wear them for work, and since this is sort of work it seemed appropriate attire."
Quatre shook his head as he slipped into the very nice car he had no doubt could go insanely fast if its owner wished, "And the lack of a tie?"
"I don't wear nooses around my neck often, unwise." Trowa wore them when he was in meetings mostly, otherwise he preferred not to wear something so impractical.
Quatre fingered his own Madonna blue tie, what were Trowa's work days like if wearing a tie was unwise? "Should I remove mine?"
Trowa glanced at Quatre before pulling out, "Not at all. Any Lab Coat that goes after you will not have the time to chock you with it."
"Are all your employes so violent?" Quatre knew some people who worked on weapon systems liked to use them but not all.
"Those who work for the Old Man can be, for me not often, these are just arrogant men who think if they yell loud enough I will cave and do things their way. They are working on a simple project and have not learned yet the few rules I have keep everyone safe, and will be enforced if I must imbed teeth into cement floors to do it." Trowa worked for and with soldiers enough to identify with them more then corporate suits. He did what he did to save soldiers and civilians not money, money be damned for how many lives greed claimed a day.
Quatre bit his lip, Trowa's voice was calm and cold, he very likely had busted a few teeth in the past. "They think you are a child who knows nothing?"
"That and that I don't pay attention to want is going on while not there. I am responsible for the lives of everyone in that lab, and I do not have to be sitting behind a desk to know when they are slacking off." Trowa gave everyone a gentle warning, then one not so gentle one before they were gone, you did not get a third warning you got the ax.
Quatre sighed softly, "You sound like my father when he is dealing with terrorist sympathizers. We do not work with those who support them, but those who pity them and their plight we are willing to to try. Not all terrorist are just evil people bent on spreading fear after all."
Trowa closed his eyes for a moment, "No they are not, sadly a soldier has less of an option when facing one behind a gun or a bomb. I do not think America should go around trying to force every country to be more like them, but I do not like bullies who threaten and kill anyone they feel justified targeting."
Quatre placed a hand on Trowa's shoulder feeling his tensed muscle along with the mixed feelings making them so tense. "I know you don't, and sometimes the only way to stop a bully is to beat them down so they can't hurt anyone again. Being willing to inflict pain to protect those who can't fight back doesn't make you a bully it makes you a protector. You are not Barton."
Trowa sighed softly before nodding, "You are getting very good at reading me like a book Cat, should I be worried?"
"Only if you don't trust me," Quatre gently teased back feeling muscle relax as his words hit home, just because Trowa was capable of violence it did not make him a monster it made him human.
Trowa smirked, even if he could not feel the physical warmth of Quatre's touch through his black suit he could feel him. "Never going to happen."
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Duo slipped out of the dressing room he and Quatre had used the day before, their gi had been cleaned and waiting for them. Wufei was scrolling through something, but he did not mind since he had been changing and Wufei did have work. He had never gotten people who wanted those around them to dote on them constantly, he only liked that when he was sick. Walking up to Wufei he folded his hands behind his back and waited for him to finish before grinning at him, "If you need to take care of something I can wait."
"It was only some scheduling from Hiro and Trowa, just making sure nothing conflicts with anything from my family." Wufei did not have many issues with that since Trowa tried to work his schedule around everyone else's, but sometimes that just could not be done.
"And what will Hiro say about all of this? You know him pretty well too right?" Wufei had comment about the other like he had, even if Trowa seemed to be closer to him. Duo was curious about Hiro but had really only gotten he was serious, like Wufei, would hate the Zero being called VR Thingy, and was Japanese.
"He is aware of Quatre already, it seems he got Trowa to choke before snapping at him not amused. He will like you just fine, even if you will not call the Zero the Zero." Wufei had not been surprised by the conversation between Hiro and Trowa, someone had to smack Trowa's hand now and then besides him.
"You know what he said, or would Cy be pissed?" Duo was curious, he had a feeling getting Trowa to choke had to be hard.
"Well he was eating a fresh cookie so choking was not just from surprise. Hiro noted Trowa's improved mood due to Quatre, who he had been talking to when he called for updates and the like. He half joked that if Trowa slept with your friend he might just get along with his adopted father and that did not go over as well as he had intended." Wufei sometimes wondered if Hiro and Catherine shared a similar mean streak.
Duo considered that for a moment, Quatre would have choked at that, but Duo would not say something like that while the blonde was eating. "He might be on to something there."
Wufei sighed as he stretched, "Perhaps but I doubt it, Barton is not a good man and Trowa is thankful to not share a drop of blood with the man."
"So if he didn't care about his sis he would have been fuck you as soon as he legally could have huh? I didn't even get a good foster family till I was fifteen. Ignored not abused so don't with the looks, I know you care but I hate the poor baby looks." Duo knew Quatre could not help it, but form anyone else they upset him.
Wufei nodded, keeping his expression stern, "Yes, even if they are not as close as they were he has no desire to hurt her. My own family is not close, and very happy with the lucrative arrangement I have with Trowa and now the Yui."
Duo was not surprised to hear Wufei and kin were not tight, Quatre was not super close to most of his sisters, of which he had a lot. "Yeah for non-nuclear families. Alright so lets do a little warming up before getting to it huh?"
Wufei nodded, Duo was trustworthy and he knew Trowa would not mind him sharing what he had with the other brunette. "As you wish."
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Grunting the blonde tensed when his back was slammed into a set of lockers like those in so many TV shows. Trying to be friendly had always gone over much better in private schools, where bullies were not often the physical type. Hitting the floor he glared up at the larger teen sensing nothing but negative thoughts from him, words would not help him. Dark teal eyes caught movement on the bully's left, the sound of flesh hitting flesh and cartilage snapping followed. The bully went down on their knees holding their nose, bright red blood already dripping from clamped fingers. Turning his attention to his savior he blinked. This new teen looked about his height and build, nothing special, but his chestnut hair was kept in a long thick braid. When he turned his equally unique violate eyes were serious for a moment before a hand was held out. This young man felt a bit damaged but not at all threatening or cruel so he allowed the stranger to help him up. "Thank you."
The other teen grinned clearly amused, "No big Mark is a total bastard, everyone in school knows it. Names Duo by the way, Duo Maxwell."
Taking the other's hand the blonde smiled at his friendly intentions and amused eyes, "It is nice to meet you Duo, I am Quatre Rabba Winner."
Duo tilted his head slightly, "Two and four huh, cool, lets be friends what do you say?"
Quatre couldn't help but chuckle softly at Duo, he was very energetic it was almost contagious. "I think I would like that very much."
Duo grinned again, hands on the blonde's shoulders, "You are adorable, can't wait to get to know you better."
Quatre opened his eyes, blinking he sensed a friend near but not Duo. Turning his head he caught Trowa opening his door and smiled up at him, while not Duo they were very much alike. Exiting the car he realized he must have dozed off and now had no real idea where he was. "Sorry, I didn't mean to doze off on you."
Trowa chuckled as he closed the car door unconcerned, "It is only a problem when the driver does it, besides you are adorable sleeping."
Quatre shook his head but followed Trowa along a tree shaded sidewalk, "You and Duo both think so."
"Great minds and all of that. Care to share what you were smiling about, or do you not remember?" Trowa was curious by nature, and Quatre knew he was free not to answer if he choose not to.
"Just the first time I met Duo," Quatre had been very lucky that day, he could not imagine what the last three going on four years would have been like without him in his life.
Trowa tilted his head at the blonde, "Luckily I am not the jealous type"
Quatre smiled at the comment, knowing Trowa was serious and liked Duo very much, "I would hate to have to choose just one of you."
Trowa chuckled opening his door, "Greedy Little Mouse. Ah Rachelle I was just coming to met you. This is Mr. Winner he will be keeping me from permanently scaring any of the employes today."
Quatre studied the pretty blonde girl who looked like she should be modeling rather then 'working' for a living. Pretty blonde secretaries were a common thing for businessmen to have, but Trowa was not one of those kind of men. "It is very nice to meet you miss."
Rachelle relaxed notably when Trowa explained the blonde, who was polite as well as cute. "Charmed. Trowa, Ivan and his cronies are in conference room 3, your favorite for this sort of thing. All department heads have submitted their reports, which are on your desk. I also have resumes in case you need to replace Ivan and the others."
Trowa nodded taking the tablet from her and glancing at it, "Do I pay you enough Rache?"
Rachelle smiled as dark eyes scanned her summarized report, she had never had an attractive boss she did not have to watch like a hawk before, it was a relief to now. "More then enough silly, though I am not above a bonus now and then."
Trowa smirked as he signed the report, holding the tablet out for his assistant now that he was done with it, "Send me your request in written form and I'll sign it as always. Mr. Winner if you would follow me please."
Quatre smiled at the happy assistant before following Trowa, curious about Rachelle's back story. Holly was retained for her driving skills and timing, on paper, but he was not sure about Rachelle. She seemed to be as nice, also called Trowa by his first name, and was very lovely. Looking down he noted a small gathering of people in white coats whispering. The glass walled room had five men inside, looking annoyed, Trowa did not glance at either group. "Is her story as interesting?"
Trowa turned to look over his shoulder, "You are convinced every employ I personally employ has a back story worth hearing aren't you?"
Quatre bit his lip slightly, did that make him sound as foolish as he suddenly felt? "Well...yes."
Trowa chuckled, Quatre was adorable when he was being timid, "Guilty as charged. After the meeting I will tell you all about her." Turning from Quatre's smiling face he entered the glass walled room perched above a lobby like room. These men were about to be royalty chewed out and the other Lab Coats knew it, that was the point. Public shaming and firing were very effective at crushing egos so they did not become overblown. If you challenged the boss you had better be sure about what you were doing, it was that simple. "Guten Tag meine Herren. Es ist Zeit, den Pfeifer zu zahlen."
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Dark stare fell on a young Westerner he knew was the son of one of the buisnessmen who had come for the meeting. He was with most of the other sons being entertianed by an instructor, Wufei shook his head at them. Walking into the room he frowned when the lesson was ended, if one could even call it that. The youngman frowned slightly at him and Wufei frowned back, he looked toughful and there seemed no real reason for. When the youngman walked up to him Wufei frowned a bit deeper, he did not care to converse with Westerens who had only a passing interest in his culture. Huffing golden laced brown from a green eye the youngman crossed his arms. "Yes?"
"Why the looks Raven Hair? Got something against Whites?" Dark green eyes narrowed slightly, daring the other to replay with a yes.
Wufei noted the challenge, this one may just be interesting, "I dislike those who condense my culture to a handful of cliches."
"Fair," The young man allowed with a nod of his head, "So don't look at us like we all do, it is just as narrowed minded."
Wufei blinked before glaring, being met with one just a dark, "And you can prove you do not?"
"Perhaps," The other half smirked, "or do you just want to fight?"
Wufei considered the other's words, that half smirk could be of amusement or arrogance. "If you think you stand a chance." The young man fell into a defensive stance, clearly he had some previous instruction even if it had been basic. Matching his stance he nodded slightly before striking, surprised the other dodged fluidly. Intrigued he continued matching the other move for move, the other less interesting students were gathering around to watch. Wufei had no real interest in them, as long as they did not interfere. His opponent had some good instincts and was able to think on his feet far faster then Wufei would have given him credit for at first glance. Knocking the Westerner on his ass he frowned slightly as he got to his feet, dark eyes still determined.
Closing dark eyes the young man bowed, ignoring his fellow foreigners, "Duo xie le Shifu."
Wufei blinked when the young man spoke in Mandarin, with not nearly as much of an accent as he would have expected. The correct use of Master as well as many thanks rather then just a simple thank you caught his attention. Bowing his head he showed him proper respect for the title, "Huanying nin de xuesheng."
"Ah son I see you have been amusing yourself," A dark brown haired man in an expensive looking suit greeted the young man ignoring Wufei.
The young man turned to the man frowning slightly, before turning his attention to the Shifu the older man had been talking to while on the tour. "For the most part. Shifu may I ask you something?"
Master O nodded at the more polite child, "Of course child, what do you wish to know?"
"That young man is one of your best students is he not?" The young man asked nodding towards Wufei.
Master O frowned slightly before nodding, "He is yes."
The young man nodded as he turned back to Wufei, "Come home with me?"
"Trowa what are you thinking now?" The older man demanded somewhat annoyed.
Trowa ignored him for a moment, "Many things at once." He muttered under his breath before turning to his father, "You said I should consider lessons, and I would prefer learning from someone interesting."
The father frowned as one put on the spot sometimes did, "I did yes, but hiring a trainer at home is much different then bring one home from another country. "
"I have no interest in learning from a trainer when I can learn from someone with authentic training." Trowa had no interest in learning anything from a personal trainer, he wanted to learn to fight not show off in a gym.
Wufei frowned as he listened to the back and forth, he could not fault Trowa's logic. "I will instruct you for one month. If I feel you are not taking me, or the lessons, seriously I will return home and you will pay for it."
Trowa arched a brow at Wufei before holding out his hand with a half smirk, "Agreed, one month and then either an extended stay, or a first class ticket back home."
Wufei took the other's hand and nodded, he had a feeling his month would not be wasted, "Agreed."
"I will see your family is made aware of everything, they will find this...interesting," Master O smiled a little before bowing his head and walking out.
Wufei smiled slightly as he countered Duo as he had Trowa before, not as fast but still as quick on his feet. "You have his focus."
Duo tilted his head, blocking moves he had no name for since they were slowed down, "You better mean Trowa."
Wufei chuckled, knowing Duo was not as jealous as his tone suggested, "Yes I mean Trowa. I wrote him off at first, however he proved his respect for the discipline. I had no time for posers, still do not."
Duo knew how people got an impression in their heads and it was hard to change it sometimes, "Foster brat remember? Look everyone is at least a little bit prejudiced, even Quatre, it's just how we humans are. My father type person is just as unique as I am, invents weird things, kids love 'em, but you better believe we are not big fans of the closed minded."
"It is no wonder you and Trowa get along." Wufei was not surprised someone like Duo had caught his attention, Trowa had spoiled him for less interesting people.
Duo grinned, "And logically that is why you are so comfortable around me, and Cat him. Opposite enough to complement and alike enough that it is easy to understand the other...or something profound like that."
Wufei shook his head, "Or something indeed. You have not asked about Nataku, why?"
"Not sure I want to know," Duo bit his lip slightly, if Wufei had some ex somewhere he was not sure he wanted to know.
Wufei nodded, their history was interesting, "She is unique, and finds Trowa interesting."
"Interesting how, exactly?" Duo was curious, he would get back to the she thing in a moment.
"As he dose her, or you for that matter. She is the heir to the Long family, you wouldn't know them, I am the Chang. Our families are friendly and so it was decided we should get to know each other, it did not work out as they intended."
"You two didn't hit it off?" Duo was not surprised to hear the families wanted to join forces by marrying their kids, it was a very old story.
"Not exactly, we became friends over time, but we both agreed a union beyond friendship and business would be unwise." Wufei was as relieved as she had been, he had not liked the idea of a wife being chosen for him.
"I'm guessing parents don't know?" Duo was fine with this short of ex in Wufei's past, she did sound interesting.
Wufei sighed softly, "No, it was also agreed we should inform they only when we wished to become serious with another person. Leaving for America with Trowa has helped with keeping everyone busy enough not to press."
Duo nodded, it all made sense to him, "So she wants to met your partner in crime huh?"
Wufei smirked a little, "That and she heard he can fight, she is a warrior at heart."
"So she wants to try and kick his ass, cool, got it." Duo grinned, she sounded like a fun time, "I think I'd like her."
"No doubt she will like you, you have spirit if not the skill to go with it yet." Wufei was not planning on returning home until at least the American New Year.
"So you think you'll keep me around that long huh?" Duo liked the idea himself, a cute guy with friends he liked and liked him was a Hell of a find.
Wufei caught Duo's wrists pinning them to his side, tilting his head, "That is my intention yes, do you object?"
Duo frowned as he feigned thinking it over, "I really can't think of any right now."
Wufei smiled at Duo's exaggerated antics, Nataku would approve of him, "Good."
Duo tilted his head, leading in close to Wufei, "You keep agreeing with me I'm going to think you're trying to spoil me."
"And that would be so bad?" Wufei asked, Duo was honest and loyal even if he could be unpredictable, spoiling him a little was the least he deserved.
Duo smiled at the question, so many ways to teasingly answer, "Not if you spoil half as good as you fight."
"You'll have to tell me," Wufei honestly replied as he closed the distance between them, not surprised Duo tasted sweet.
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Quatre frowned as he listened to the Lab Coats rage, he could not understand German very well but he did understand tone. Trowa sat at the head of the table, fingers together, expression indifferent. Ivan seemed to find this extremely unexceptionable, the others less so. When Ivan mentioned Mr. Barton he caught dark eyes narrow. Ivan did not seem to catch his error, a few of the others swallowed looking nervous. Glancing out the window like walls he frowned at the excited chatter, seemed a few of them could speak German. Ivan leaned forward saying something that sounded insulating, look smug. Trowa waved him off dismissing him outright, like a child throwing a tantrum. Ivan made a comment about Rachelle before pointing at him sneering, Quatre just blinked at him. Trowa glared as he stood, the four men behind Ivan backed away like he was about to flip the desk at them. "What?"
Trowa glanced at Quatre but did not answer, turning narrowed eyes back to Ivan. No one threatened him let alone his friends, Ivan was lucky he was not being piledriven through one of those glass walls behind him. "Mich und mein Volk bedrohen nicht. Raus aus oder ich werde dich deportiert wurden."
Ivan sputtered at the eyes like emerald ice, he had never seen a glare so cold in all his life. If he had known making such comments about the pretty blonde pair could get him deported he would have held his tongue, "Sie konnen nicht!"
Trowa sneered, he had gotten Ivan's attention, "Darf ich nicht?"
Ivan frowned at the mocking can't I response, punk kid. "Herr Barton..."
"Herr Barton nicht mieten Sie, Ich tat." Trowa reminded the fool, he could not hide behind Lord Barton.
"Er ist dein Vater," Ivan reminded the child, Mr. Barton was the Father and fathers were the last word.
Trowa chuckled coldly at Ivan's retort, "Er ist nicht mein Vater, uan Sie sind ein Narr. Jetzt geh mir aus den Augen." Frowning at the fool, he was no longer amusing to play with, it was time for him to go.
"Dummes Kind!" Ivan spat before lunging at Quatre, blinking when he felt a sharp pain in his right knee. "Nein, es tut weh!"
Trowa glared down at the howling man, Quatre lowering his arms since he no longer had an attacker to ward off. "Ich warne Sis." Turning on his heal he hit hit the intercom at the head of the table, "Rachelle I need a medic to set a broken leg, and then some police to take Ivan into custody for attempted assault."
"Ivan attacked you?" Rachelle asked sounding surprised over the speaker phone.
"No, Mr. Winner. It is all on video so have that ready for the officers won't you?" Trowa had filled similar charges once of twice before, video evidence always cleared him since self defense was perfectly legal.
"Sure thing, I will also have a copy of their contract ready, the original and one in English," Rachelle was use to dealing with cops since Trowa did not take threats well.
"Thank you Rache. Now as for the rest of you, step out of line again and you all will be fired as well. Just following orders will not fly here as an excuse for behaving like Ivan. Now get out, I am not in the mood for excuses and pleading right now." Trowa watched the four of them rush out before two large guards picked Ivan up and dragged him out.
"You didn't have to break his leg Trowa," Quatre reminded his still annoyed friend, not that he knew exactly what Ivan had said.
"It is hairline nothing serious, he is lucky I did not kick him through the wall for going after you as he did. He is a fool who though the Old Man would protect him, he has been corrected." Trowa had not hated the man at first, but he understood why his mother had rejected him fully now.
Quatre touched his friend's arm, Ivan had said something that had upset him and he was willing to bet calling Mr. Barton Trowa's father had not been it. "He threatened me?"
"Both you and Rachelle, it does not matter he is gone now and that is the end of it." Trowa glanced at the workers returning to their labs now that the show was over, "Are you upset with me?"
"He was not a nice man so no, not at you." Quatre was pleased Trowa had shown restraint, no one around acted like this was the first time someone had been dragged from an office in pain.
Trowa sighed relaxing, Quatre had been ready to defend himself and was not upset with him for hurting the fool Ivan. "Good, if you would like a tour I can show you around now that the show is over."
Quatre smiled as Trowa relaxed, he much preferred friends calm rather then distressed. "I would enjoy a tour, and I will try to not be a bother with too many questions. Can you tell me about how you met Rachelle while we walk or is that a personal story?"
"Not at all, I believe most here know the basics, she will not mind you knowing since she likes you." Trowa knew Rachelle liked Quatre, she would like him more once she got to know him better.
Quatre placed a hand on Trowa's chest stopping him from walking out the doors, "Tell me here."
Trowa smiled as he nodded, "As you wish." Taking the blonde's hand he lead him back to the desk and sat him down before sitting himself. "I was at the law firm she was temping at to pick up some paperwork for the Old Man. Our paths only crossed because I was looking around and heard the fight, the guy was not expecting to be interrupted by someone who could fight. I knocked him out and jerked him back before he could crush her as well. She had fought back but did not have the skill to fight effectively in confined spaces, it is a bit more challenging, don't ask you don't want to know right now. She just blinked at me unsure, I was seventeen at the time, and her blouse was torn up. Covering up she looked down at her attacker looking back up at me she shied away. She relaxed when I held out my black shirt to her, which she took after a moment. Decent once more she calmed down a little and we took a liking to each other. The Old Man had been on my case about getting a personal assistant and when he saw me with a model he was more then happy to hire her on the spot."
"She was a model?" Quatre was not exactly surprise the tall pleasantly portioned young blonde with warm brown eyes was a model, she was lovely.
"Paid the bills, collage is not cheep. She has taken a few courses while working for me, hard work is richly rewarded." Trowa was more then happy to pay for a few collage courses in exchange for hard work.
Quatre stood smiling down at Trowa, he really was a softie under that cat like demeanor, "Always saving people and then giving them a second chance as a reward."
Trowa looked up, he did not do anything solely for rewards, "They get a fresh start and I get their services, a fair trade."
Quatre leaned down and kissed Trowa gently, smiling when he did, "I am very lucky you did not allow Mr. Barton to change you."
Trowa chuckled laying his forehead on Quatre's shoulder, "I could not ask for a better reward than you."
Quatre sighed softly, Trowa's warmth and contentment was soothing, "I wish we didn't have to say goodbye so soon."
Trowa looked up frowning slightly, "Who said we did? After a few days I'll be free to travel again, the Old Man has his whining and dining to do and won't need me."
Quatre smiled hugging Trowa, he was hoping he would say something like that, "Duo was thinking about it, and I must admit I would miss you both too."
Trowa smirked, "Fei and I travel a lot so it will be just fine, and you can explain me to your family how ever you want."
"I want them to get to know you before...Father and Rashid are a bit old fashioned, though I am sure you will charm them." Quatre knew his father and second father would like Trowa and Wufei just fine once they got to know them, they were both such good people.
Trowa smiled at the blonde, "No doubt, but for the moment it is you who will do the charming."
Quatre smiled back as he let Trowa go, "I am looking forward to it." Getting to his feet he pulled Trowa into a hug before heading towards the doors ready to met some of the nice Lab Coats.
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Duo hummed softly to himself as he walked out of the dressing room he now considered his and Quatre's. Long hair hung over his left shoulder as he fished braiding it, since he had been given a real work out this time he had washed his hair. Wufei was in all black taking to someone on his cell, laughing after a moment so he assumed Trowa or Quatre. "Hey Fei all clean now."
Wufei looked up, Duo was standing to his left braid almost completed, looking wonderful in black and crimson. "You can braid all that hair very quickly."
"Practice. So which of our friends are you talking to hm?" Duo was in a wonderful mood, his lesson had been great, but kissing Wufei had been better.
"Trowa, we were discussing where we should eat while you changed." Wufei had not minded much since Duo had been working hard during his lesson, and not to impress him.
"How about Tai...do you like Tai?" Duo knew Wufei liked Japanese food but that did not mean he also liked Tai, and not just because it was racists to think all Asians liked all Asian food.
Wufei frowned slightly when Trowa chuckled, "We both do. Duo suggested Tai, oh you heard. Of course, see you both soon."
"So what is the plan hm?" Duo asked folding his hands behind his back.
"They will met us there once you text them an address," Trowa was already on his way back, the lab was a few hours away.
"I know a great one near our hotel," Duo grinned to himself as he texted Trowa. "You guys staying at a hotel too or?"
"No, the Bartons have a home near here because of all the military bases in Nevada and Utah, as well as a nice place near DC mostly for work." Wufei had the addresses of both working homes, summer homes, the Castle, as well as the ones in Europe in his phone.
"Right the Old Man's bread and butter, Winners have a few places like that too." Duo had been to most of them since he went with Quatre when he traveled most places.
Wufei nodded absently, Winner were in the business of Peace Barton War Trowa a bit of both, "Many do."
Duo watched Wufei pocket his phone, walking up to him, "I'll keep practicing so I won't be rusty by Halloween."
"And why would you wait so long?" Wufei asked frowning slightly, it was not as if either lacked the means to travel.
"Busy...Not going to be busy?" Duo knew Quatre did not have anything serious on the books right now.
"Mr. Barton will be whining and dining soon, leaving Trowa free to see to his own projects before we run off to save whoever from whatever." Wufei much preferred saving lives endangered by storms and the like then sitting through board meetings.
Duo smirked at the idea of playing hero, he would not mind giving it a try, "Sounds like fun." Sighing he muttered softly under his breath, "Too bad Rashid and Mr. Barton are around to ruin some of our fun."
"You would prefer takeout then?" Wufei smirked at the jump, Trowa did rub off.
Duo looked up blinking, biting his lip a little, "Depends on who I am sharing it with really...you?"
Wufei frowned slightly, "Normally no, though I think I could learn to enjoy it more."
Duo smiled a little, Wufei was cautious but was willing to trust him, "Good company and good food usually make for a decent evening."
"You have a point, and no doubt Trowa agrees with you, does Quatre?" Wufei knew how he felt and when he was willing to take a risk, he did not know Quatre as well as he knew himself.
Duo considered what Wufei was implying, Quatre was shy but also already very happy with his new kitty cat, "Adopted dads are a bit of a problem, not everyone likes the same kind of take out."
Wufei nodded, true on many levels, "Only if they are around to eat anything."
"I sense someone has been a busy little Kitty while I was washing my hair." Duo was not about to be upset he had not be included in the sneaking this time.
Wufei nodded taking the end of Duo's braid, "He likes to keep his options open and his friends happy, he is a good cat really."
"Yes he is, just like mine. It is nice to have options, even if you don't use them." Wufei would be fun to spend the night with, but Duo was not one to push anyone like that. Getting Quatre to open up was a lot different then rushing someone he liked into bed.
"Very true. If you would rather eat in you may text them and let them know they are free to do the same." Wufei knew Duo would never turn on him he was too much like Trowa, and that Quatre was just as harmless to his friend. He had been foolish to react the way he had at first, he could have coast them all so much.
Duo pulled out his phone more then happy to do just that, Quatre was the most giving guy he knew he so deserved a reward before his afterlife began. Typing quickly he worded the message so either would be able to follow the go home with Trowa hint. "There we are, might as well wait for a reply before bothering Holly."
"Considerate," Wufei agreed, Holly was discrete so there was no worry of Mr. Barton learning something he should not. "Since you asked me something I wish to do the same."
"I'm an open book so have at you," Duo smirked at the text about rumpled kitties expecting them for a late lunch. "Seems we are invited to a late lunch to pick up our wayward little kittens."
"Sounds amusing. Why is your hair so long?" Wufei knew some men wore theirs long, Quatre had the shortest hair of them all.
"Ah that," Duo trailed off as he replaced his phone after texting they were both looking forward to lunch. "I ran from a Nun who had a very big pair of scissors until I was saved by a Father."
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If there are any other backstories, etc you would like to see feel free to ask, anonymous reviews are not ignored so feel free to leave them in those. Any suggestions any of you have I would like to hear them. Hiro will show up again so do not feel too bad about his absence, he is kinda not important right now. Hugs to all my readers and sorry for the long wait my muses have been erratic. If you liked this one please feel free to try some of my other Gundam Wing fiction, I have plenty to choose from.
