Struggle

Jade had half a mind to beat Dist as he held him against the wall of the theatre. Instead he dragged him down the street to a small park and pushed him onto a bench. Nebilim hovered at Dist's side, a cruel grin on her face as Jade loomed over Dist.

"Ow! OW! Stop it, Jade!" Dist whined, his nose beginning to drip. Jade released Dist's arm and allowed him to sit up. Dist glared up at Jade, but faltered when Jade glared right back.

"Sorry, it's been a while since we've talked. I'd forgotten how soft you are."

"Damn you, Jade Curtiss!" Dist snarled and stamped his foot. The replica watched Dist, intrigued by his temper. "You're always raining on my parade!"

"Well now that we've got the pleasantries out of the way, we can speak seriously," Jade stared hard at Dist, making him cower and quiet. "I believe my ban on creating human replicas is still standing, making it very problematic for you with that standing there."

Jade glanced briefly at Nebilim and she smirked, a dark glint in her eyes that had never existed in their beloved Professor's eyes.

"For years you stepped on me Jade, making me believe I was weak, but now the truth is out. You are the weak one! The one who gave up! While I bloomed like a rose" Dist cackled manically, pointing his finger at Jade. "Why should I have to listen to a traitor's rules? I don't, especially since everyone I once called friend abandoned me. Why should I have to bow and snivel at your feet like you desire?"

Jade surveyed Dist coolly, but in his heart he felt regretful. I kept pushing you away Saphir and I pushed you too far. Is there no redemption for this sin either? All I need is a sign that Saphir is still there, then perhaps...

"Why would I desire you snivelling on my shoes? What a mess that would make. No, what I desire is for you to stop this foolishness or I will stop you, and it won't be pleasant."

"Your threats are empty. If you had the capability to stop me, you would have already," Dist grinned wickedly. He patted Nebilim's hand, but she swatted him. Dist flinched, but the grin still remained on his twisted face. "Calm down, Professor."

"I couldn't do anything before because I had no proof of illegal replicas, but now I do. How careless of you, Dist," Jade said. There must be logic, even if it's warped, as to why you brought Nebilim with you to Peony's play. "Why would you risk bringing her here?"

There it was. A flicker in Dist's eyes where Saphir, somewhere in that maniac, twitched.

"I-I came to flaunt my genius, my beautiful work," Dist said, stumbling over his tongue.

"Really?"

"Really."

"You're quite certain?"

"Yes! Enough with the pointless questions."

"My apologies, I just don't believe you. I think you had ulterior motives, like recreating our childhood," Jade suggested, watching subtle twinges in Dist's face. "The four of us together again."

"That...was the idea," Dist said slowly and then shook his head wildly. Through gritted teeth he hissed, "But you changed that, traitor. You gave up, you lacked my gull, my intelligence, my beauty, my skill, my- Professor come back!"

Jade had been acutely aware that the replica was inching away, and said nothing of it to Dist. He was actually quite amused in watching Dist flutter about and try to pull her back. That was until she became enraged and threw Dist to the ground. The laugh that came from her sickened Jade. That is not the Professor.

Jade made his way over calmly, to put an end to the twisted mockery of Professor Nebilim's life. He thought that because Dist had never been strong and was thinner now, that that was why Nebilim shook him off easily. How very wrong he was. In a surprised whirl of colour and pain, Jade found himself toppled across Dist's legs.

"My my what a temper she has," Jade said, rolling lithely to his feet and dusting his suit off. "And what unnatural strength. Tell me Dist, what went through your mind when you decided to give her the mind of a deviant child and the body of an athlete?"

"Argh, shut up! She needed the extra proteins to grow faster and she was frail. My beautiful mind is stable, unlike yours, snake."

"Though my tongue is forked, I think your stomach spends more time dragging on the ground. But enough chitchat," Jade said, ignoring Dist's enraged protest, "she is a danger to those around her and you- no, we have to stop her."

"Like hell! I spent years planning this moment and you have to go and ruin it because she's not perfect for you. No!" Dist was back on his feet and put all his weight into pushing Jade away from the replica.

"Years? That's not possible, Dist. You've only had this dark, maniacal streak for a couple months. Our obsession with the Professor died when I condemned the project."

Dist laughed cruelly and stood between Jade and Nebilim. "You barbaric idiot! If only your savage brain could understand! This dream of our golden era never died, it was just a wonderful dream for a couple years, but not anymore. Our beloved Professor came back to us!"

Dist made the grave mistake of attempting to grab Nebilim's hand and bring her closer. She shrieked and flailed, undoubtedly attracting attention from anyone nearby. Although, it's unlikely anyone is out on a cold Christmas night. Forgive me, Peony, for running off, Jade's mind tacked on, aware of how cruel his departure must have seemed for Peony.

Jade thought about letting the replica pummel Dist for him while he called the police, but the replica was physically their beloved Professor's perfect copy. The headache of emotions began to press once again and he understood why this time. Their Professor never shrieked or spat like an animal, nor did she strike at her students or laugh when they cried out in pain. The real Nebilim bowed her head and smiled at Jade and Saphir's homework as she walked past their desks. The real Nebilim went to Peony`s plays and sat with her hands folded neatly on her gowned lap. This imitation grabbed hold of Dist's face with one hand and pushed him, kicking and screaming onto the hard, frosted ground. Her gown tore and fluttering unbecomingly around her legs as her feet slid in the dirt.

Dist was, in a way, lucky that Jade was there; Jade was by a nature a cold and logical person so he had little trouble overcoming the fact that the replica had the face of his most cherished Professor. Jade gripped the replica from behind and bent her arm until she howled and released Dist.

"Jade you animal!" he snarled and staggered to his feet. "Don't hurt the-"

"Saphir!" Jade snapped, hoping he could bring back some sense to the man. Dist shut his mouth and hesitated, but the glare remained.

"You don't get to talk to Saphir! It's Dist! D-I-S-"

"Set aside your feelings and realize that if we can't calm her down she is likely to hurt someone. This means trouble for the both of us, so help me," Jade said while trying to keep her from twisting free. When Dist stood uncertainly with his fists clenched and a fit on the horizon, Jade used his deadly tone that to that day, no one had ignored. "I am very serious, by the way."

Peony and Nephry had circled the block and were a couple cafes and boutiques away from the theatre, with still no sight or sound of Jade. Both were panting and Nephry's ankles shook a little in her heels.

Peony was worried but knew that Jade was no idiot; he didn't go walking into danger and to be honest, Saphir had always been a weakling. What did worry him was the fact that he explained nothing to anyone and Ion had described Jade as being 'upset', which was a very strange thing.

"Peony," Nephry said, straightening up and fixing him with a steady gaze, "I've bit my tongue up until now, but I need to know. What is going on?"

"Beats me. My best guess is Jade saw Saphir and chased after him," Peony shrugged, "I don't know why he did."

"I don't believe that, Peony. I think something is going on and I'm not just talking about my brother's disappearance tonight," her stare became intense, accusing and curious. "My brother's different than when he left home, he's...genuine and more..."

"Human?"

"Peony, I hope you didn't just say that as a joke, because for a long time, I really wondered if he wasn't. I don't mean like a supernatural beast," Nephry backpedalled, "but like a monster. Something that couldn't truly care or love."

Despite the situation they were in, Peony smiled and pulled Nephry into a warm embrace. She leaned into him and rested her chin on his shoulder with her eyes closed.

"He can love, he just doesn't understand it very well. And he's always loved you Nephry, he just gets frustrated and shows it in odd ways."

"He loves you too, Peony," she whispered and Peony shut his eyes, imagining Jade saying those words. It wasn't so hard seeing as Nephry was quite like her brother only warmer. Ha ha, that's probably why I dated her in the first place...I'm such a prick.

"It wasn't just a one night stand," Nephry said with a sharp certainty. "I can tell. I know you both very well and so I know you wouldn't be happy with just that. You've loved my brother for years."

"Nephry, I think you're overshooting Jade's capability to love. He doesn't do relationships," Peony lied and not even half-heartedly.

"And why are you denying it?" She asked, pulling away to look a downcast Peony in the eye. "What happened? Did my brother tell you to lie to me? He should know I have no problem with you two being together. I loved you romantically once but...Did he break up with you because of-?"

"Nah, to be honest I think I hurt him a bit. The stupid bastard just doesn't know what to make of the situation, but he likes being in control."

Peony expected Nephry to ask how he'd hurt her brother and how he planned to make it up to Jade, or at the very least get angry with him for hurting Jade. Instead, Nephry's eyes became very bright and watery as a joyful smile appeared on her face.

"He feels- he loves you."

A shriek split the crisp night air and Nephry and Peony flinched. They turned their gazes in unison, looking at the patch of trees where the park was.

"What was that? A bird or a cat?" Nephry asked.

"Nah...it sounded human-" a pained, whiny wail sounded from the thin patch of trees. "That could have been an animal."

"No, that was Saphir!" Nephry said and bolted towards the corps of trees.

"Ma'am wait! Stay back!" someone barked, running up to Nephry and Peony. "I heard the scream, do not move any closer, it could be dangerous."

"Aslan?" Peony said a little shocked to see his old friend.

"Peony?" Aslan said, recognition showing in his face. He opened his mouth as though to ask how Peony got to Grand Chokmah, but another cry rose from the trees. "Sorry, Peony, we'll have to chat later. I was called to investigate a disturbance-"

"Yeah, thought as much. Aslan, man, that could be Jade in there, so sorry but, Nephry and I have got to follow you."

"I can't-" more howls of pain and multiple voices sounded. Aslan gave Peony and Nephry a withering look as though to say 'for the love of Lorelei, be careful!'

"Jade! Help me!" Dist whined as Nebilim threw him to the dirt yet again.

"I'm dealing with the same situation as you-" Nebilim whirled around and caught Jade in the gut. With a grunt he went down on one knee. "Damn."

Dist squirmed about and tangled his legs with Nebilim's, accidentally toppling her over. Jade took the opportunity to leap on her shoulders and hold her on arm behind her back.

"Jade! Jade! Jade! She's on my legs, get her off! Get her off! It hurts!"

Nebilim howled and mimicked Dist, saying, "Get off! Off!"

"Dist, enough! Your yelling only entices her to scream," Jade scolded. Thank Lorelei no one is around to witness this, he thought as Nebilim squirmed and writhed as he pinned her down.

"Police! Put your hands behind your head and step away from that woman! Both of you!"

Dist stopped screaming and Nebilim became quit and slowed her thrashing. Jade tried to look back but he couldn't see the people well without his glasses. They'd shattered and slipped off his nose when Dist flailed his arms in a poor attempt at striking the replica.

"Oh dear, I'm sure this does look suspicious, doesn't it?" Jade remarked, still pinning Nebilim down.

"What the hell are you doing?" Nephry screamed at her brother, tears of anger and disbelief in her eyes.

"Nephry I-"

"Jade?" Aslan said in a shocked voice. He stood a little more than ten feet away with his gun out and focused on Jade's back.

"Is that Aslan Frings?" Jade asked with an amused tone.

"Yes, but Jade...this isn't like you."

"No, it is not like me to attack a woman in a dark park and I can assure you that nothing 'funny' is running through my mind at the moment. I'd very much like to stand up so that we can talk properly and sort this out, however if I were to stand she may start attacking and Dist may run off."

"'Funny'," Aslan mused, his gun lowered a little and a quasi expression appeared on his face. "Alright, stay sitting, but don't move and I'm going to cuff all three of you."

Aslan stowed his gun away quickly and crouched down next to Dist to cuff him first. Dist put up a bit of a fight, trashing and squirming away.

"Damn you, Jade! You planned this didn't you? Traitor!" he roared.

Jade's head throbbed a bit at the pitch of Dist's voice and he glared down at the cuffed man.

"Have you ever heard the expression 'digging your own grave'?" Jade asked with a smirk on his face.

"Damn! This isn't what I wanted! It wasn't meant to be this way! You were supposed to- should have accepted her. Should have accepted me!" Dist put his hands to his face and began to cry. Jade stared down at him, the urge to slap sense into him strong in his mind.

Aslan hesitated with the second pair of cuffs, his gaze flickering from Dist to Jade. Nephry was crying silently next to Peony who had his gaze fixed on Dist. His wore a pained express and forced himself to stay put.

"J-Jade, why? Why couldn't you? All I wanted was-was..."

"Enough," Jade said firmly. Dist continued to hide his face behind his hands and sob. "None of us are going to make excuses for our mistakes. You are in this position because you are a fool. As am I."

"I'm not I-I Jade, I loved you. I was only trying to make things better...make us better again. Please Jade! I'm sorry!"

Aslan blushed and fiddled with the second set of cuffs awkwardly. Nephry gasped painfully and put her hand over her mouth as she turned away. Peony took a couple rigid steps forward to stand a few feet behind Jade. He felt awkward himself; he wanted to go to Saphir's side and try to cheer him up, but somehow he didn't think he'd be appreciated and he didn't think this was Jade's fault exactly so he ought not to be neglected.

"I understand your reasoning," Jade said a little softer, "but I cannot condone your actions. This is...for the best."

Aslan snapped out of the awkward tension and slipped the cuff onto one of Jade's wrists. When Jade's arm was taken away and some of the weight removed from her shoulders, Nebilim bucked and sent Jade sprawling onto Aslan's feet. Peony jumped backwards and Nephry turned around to see what the commotion was about. Nephry let out a short, high-pitched yelp when she caught sight of the replica's face. Nebilim gave Nephry a curious grin.

"This isn't possible," Nephry said weakly, leaning against a nearby tree and sliding down the trunk to the ground.

Jade tried to push himself up, but the tides had turned and now Nebilim had her hand at Jade's throat and was holding him down. Aslan cursed and tried to wriggle his legs free from underneath Jade.

"Well done," Jade choked out as Nebilim leered down at him.

"You..." Nebilim hissed and Jade gave her a curious look. The replica had few memories, but her oldest ones were of Jade and Saphir working in the lab. She had no understanding of the situation back then, which was probably best for Jade at the moment, because she felt enough anger for having been kept in the boring glass cage. Then one day she saw Jade's serious face and Saphir's upset one and then darkness for a very long time. Then the light and Saphir returned and within a couple months, she was free and furious.

She tested her strength by giving Jade's throat a strong squeeze. Jade coughed and tensed from the shock of it.

Peony stared down in horror, his mind felt like it was holding onto the back bumper of a speeding car. Images whizzed by too fast to grip and make sense of, while the driving force of this terrible ride sped along with or without him. When the replica squeezed Jade's throat and made him choke, Peony found stable ground. Nobody treated any of his friends so poorly without repercussions, not even the Professor. Peony grabbed Nebilim by the shoulders and threw her off Jade. He crouched next to Jade and helped him sit up. Jade rubbed his throat and coughed.

"Peony!" Nephry shrieked and a second later Nebilim had thrown herself laughing onto him.

She clawed and kicked mainly at Peony but her aim was wild and hit Jade and Aslan as well. Nephry tried struggling to her feet but, with the amount of running and shock, she could barely stand. Aslan managed to wiggle his face away from Nebilim's flailing hands and slid his gun out of the holster.

"Ugh- Damn..." Aslan grunted when Nebilim cuffed him upside the head and the gun skidded under a leafless bush. He tried straining for the gun and twisting his body to get even an inch closer. There was a snap like a brittle branch had broken and Aslan cringed back in pain and cried out when someone was pushed down onto his splintered ankle.

Jade and Peony thought they were gaining ground when they each had hold of one of her arms, but all she had to do was fall forward and press her palms into their chests. She attacked randomly but with all her strength and didn't even try to defend herself, yet she could not be beaten. This is a ridiculous fight, Jade thought, there's no reason to be attacking us and she doesn't tire. Jade craned his neck and looked for help. Nephry was standing and unsteadily making her way forward, but with the fear in her eyes Jade yelled at her to back away. With a dark laugh Nebilim hit him and sent him falling back onto Aslan's legs. Through starry eyes and burning pain Jade saw Dist sitting and staring in horror at the group. When he met Jade's eyes the horror grew.

When the fight started Dist truly had no clue that they actually were fighting. He was lost inside himself, breathing in hurt, swallowing self pity and drowning in loathing. Jade you think I've done something wrong? Mistake you call her? She's everything that was good in your childhood! She taught you how to think, something we both enjoy doing. She encouraged you to pair up with Saphir in class because you were at the same level. She could command you to be kind to Saphir. So she holds the key to your humanity, and I will see that side of you. And when I do, I want to see you crushed and then you will understand where I, Dist, came from! You hurt Saphir and now the best and most beautiful side of him is free from the shadows. Dist!

Yet Dist was out of control because as much as he spat at Jade and called him traitor, he still felt drawn to Jade. That part of Saphir still remained, the admiration and loyalty to Jade. In the eerie shade of the bare trees, under a clear night sky, Dist roiled and tried to deny why he had chased after Jade to this city. Because when Dist had completed Nebilim and she stood in a hospital gown in the center of a brightly lit lab, Saphir groaned in his mind. She's not worth Jade's hate...Dist then decided to flaunt his work and prove that he was the one in control, not Saphir and not Jade. When walking home in the middle of the night after work Dist spotted a large banner strung from Peony's parents rafters. It told of a play he had written. Saphir stirred again with a desire to go to see it and to see Jade because he'd be there.

So? If Jade's at the play it's because he loves Peony, not you Saphir. A cruel thought came to Dist's mind. That would crush you wouldn't it? Seeing them happy...together. Oh Saphir, neither of us really wants that. I'm just trying to protect you and the best way to do that is to control you. Saphir had quieted but Dist pressed on. I could bring the Professor and instead of us fighting for control all the time, Saphir, I can recreate that golden era. Then you'll be happy and I'll be in control.

Dist was unsettled as he and a sleeping replica Nebilim drove to Grand Chokmah. There was an egotistic happiness about him for completing the work that Jade couldn't but, there was also a hopeful happiness stirring in Saphir.

Jade doesn't want you, Saphir, Dist thought, even as a friend. He's got Peony to play with. I do want you though.

Wrong...he needs friends...and I can settle for less...if it means being near him.

Ha! He doesn't need you. Even you don't need you to survive in this world. All you need is wonderful me.

And now, here Dist sat cuffed and on the cold ground with Saphir struggling to shake Dist, the protective barrier, off. All it took to clear Saphir's mind was to catch Jade's eye. Jade was pained by the thing he'd created, what with the black eye and blood snaking from his lip.

Oh Lorelei... Saphir thought and whimpered out loud.

The replica turned her gaze on Saphir and grinned. You...the replica thought, you hurt me too! While she was distracted Peony lashed out with his leg and toppled her over. However, Jade wasn't on his feet anymore and Aslan couldn't stand even if he wanted to. Jade caught Saphir's eye again and muttered something. Saphir leaned forward and tried to comprehend.

"The bush, Dist. There," Jade nodded his head at the bush a few feet from them. Saphir followed Jade's gaze and upon seeing the gun, scrabbled awkwardly on his knees and lunged for it.

It was awkward enough to try and hold the gun with the cuffs on and made even more so with the fact that Saphir had no clue how to work the damn thing. Nephry crawled over to Saphir, her eyes red from tears but her jaw set determinedly. She had little more clue how to fire a gun than Saphir, but her confidence outweighed his. She had the gun trained shakily on Nebilim's back and Peony had hit the ground and covered his ears to give her a clear shot. But the replica turned and again, Nephry was stumped by the replica Nebilim's face. She called out her brother's name, questioning what was going on, but his only answer was for her to shoot or pass the gun to him. There wasn't time to pass the gun off with the replica laughing her way over to Nephry at a running pace. The gun still in Nephry's hand, Saphir slipped his finger over the trigger and pulled. With the echoing crack of the gun, the pointless, violent mockery ended.

Nephry and Saphir sat in a stunned silence and the gun slipped from their clasp and lay on the hard earth. Aslan lay on his back with his teeth gritted and after a couple deep breaths, sat up and pulled his injured leg closer to inspect the damage. Peony got up slowly and stood glancing from Jade to Saphir in a confused way, then decided to check on Aslan. Jade wasn't acknowledging anyone, he pulled out his phone and called the police. When the call was ended he turned his attention to Nephry.

"Are you hurt?" he asked.

"Jade, what's going on? I don't understand...that looks like Professor...Jade? What-?"

With a grunt of pain, Jade stood and walked over to his sister with his hands tucked in his pockets. His blank, ragged face gave away nothing as he stared down at her.

"I'll tell you everything once this has been taken care of," Jade turned his gaze to Saphir and his eyes became cold and hard. "I'm surprised that Dist harmed the Professor, I didn't see that one coming. Although it is somewhat of a relief that I can't fully comprehend the actions of a maniac."

Saphir hung his head and curled into a ball, his hands pushed against his miserable face. Peony saw this and again his stomach twisted in concern for his friend, but Jade was right in thinking that Saphir had done wrong.

"J-Jade...I'm sorry. I-I'm sorry!" Saphir cried.

"Is this change in attitude brought about by realizing that you are in very deep trouble?" Jade asked genuinely curious.

"N-no, not exactly. I'm sorry..."

"Then what, Dist?"

"Jade," Peony said gently and Jade turned to acknowledge him, "he's calmed down. I don't think he's Dist anymore."

"My my do your talents never cease? I had no idea your spectrum of knowledge expanded into the psychological field."

"Don't be that way," Peony said, coming to stand next to Jade and resting an arm on his shoulder. "I know you're upset, but you don't have to hide it behind sarcasm. We're all friends here."

"Upset? Hardly, Your Majesty. Exhausted, battered and annoyed is more likely the case."

Peony observed Jade with a cynical expression and laughed a little at Jade's indifference. Peony bunched up his sleeve and wiped the blood from Jade's lips. Jade turned his face away curtly and sighed as though plagued by a thousand problems. They noticed Saphir watching them with a yearning expression and a depressed demeanour. When Saphir realized he'd been caught with such an expression, he looked down at the ground and hid his tears in what little hope he had left, that Jade would not berate him. Peony slipped off Jade's arm and crouched next to Saphir. He put a hand on Saphir's quivering shoulder and didn't say a word for a couple moments.

"Hey, I don't quite get all that's happened in the past few months but, I'm not happy to see you like this, man," Peony said in a low voice.

"Peony, just go away...I'm done. I understand that I've lost...everything."

"What's that suppose to mean, huh?" Peony asked with an awkward chuckle in his voice. "You can't mean..."

"He could never commit suicide, he's got the tenacity of a cockroach," Jade chimed in.

"Not cool, Jade," Peony said angrily, eliciting no emotional reaction from Jade.

"Why not? The truth is even crueller."

"Jade..." Peony warned.

"You think I'm a coward..." Saphir murmured to the ground. Again he buried his face in his cuffed hands. "I really have nothing. Not your respect, not your sympathy, not your love, not even your friendship..."

"Yes, you lost those privileges long ago."

"...Did I ever have them?"

Jade blinked once, turned his back on Saphir and walked away. Saphir slumped further onto himself and Peony tried to comfort him, but Saphir pushed him away. Flashing lights approached the park and the sirens sounded once, before the cars parked near the entrance. The paramedics were the first to arrive and carried Aslan out on a gurney. Jade was by his side as they lifted him into the ambulance.

"I'm very sorry to put you in this position Aslan, especially during the holidays."

"This is my job, I'm aware of the downsides. Besides," Aslan grimaced and looked pointedly at his broken ankle, "I'll get some time off with this injury. That should smooth things over with my fiancée."

"You're getting married? Congratulations."

"Yeah...This will sound odd and maybe it's the painkillers, but could I get yours and Peony's numbers? I just realized how much I missed you two."

"Of course."

The police arrived next and at the recognizable sound of their sirens, Saphir cringed.

"Hey, it's okay," Peony tried saying to Saphir, "We'll explain everything calmly and-"

"I'm not stupid, Peony, I know what will come of this," he said wretchedly. "And it has nothing to do with you, so go."

"We're friends, Saphir, that's reason enough to stay with you."

"Jade doesn't think so."

"Jade's just as upset as the rest of us. He just has a horrible way of showing it."

Saphir sat dolefully and listened for footsteps near the entrance of the park. It didn't take long for them to be heard. Saphir moaned something into his hands that Peony didn't catch.

"What was that, buddy?" he asked.

"I said...I hate you," Saphir hissed with little energy. Peony sat stumped next to Saphir, his hand resting stiffly on Saphir's shoulder. "I heard the rumours from your parents that you're moving away from here. It's not fair..."

"My parents knew, they told you...?"

"You have everything, damn you, Peony!" Saphir spat. "You have Jade's respect, you have your talent, you have his love and friendship! But you're throwing him away!"

The police spotted Saphir right away by his raised voice and shoving of Peony away. They made a beeline for him and raised him by the arms to his feet. The other policemen cuffed Jade's second wrist and marched him to the gate to wait for the others to bring Saphir over.

"It's not fair! I hate you!" Saphir barked at Peony.

"Again, digging your own grave, Dist," Jade said coldly, "and I'll happily fill it."

Jade was questioned thoroughly at Grand Chokmah's police station and was released several hours later when the sun began to rise. He, unlike Saphir, was free to leave. Jade wondered, as he was lead down the hall by a tired officer, if the others were still here. It was unlikely, since Nephry and Peony had arrived with Frings, when he came to give a quick statement, after having his leg casted. Jade shouldn't have had to wonder though. Dozing, but effectively waiting, in a less than comfy chair was Peony. Jade stood before him, and tried to mentally sort out the night; Dist had come back with a replica, they'd been attacked randomly, Dist seemed to come to his senses for a time and then yelled at Peony. When Jade had caught sight of the look on Peony's face as they dragged Dist away, he was furious and he couldn't explain why. Perhaps it was because Peony seemed like he wanted to back away from his dream at Dist's words, or because he still saw Dist as their childhood friend. Or maybe, and Jade could barely even stomach the thought, let alone admit it, it was because he'd never seen Peony so pained and the fact that Jade could do nothing, even if had hadn't been cuffed.

"So they let you out," Peony yawned and stretched. He smiled sadly up at Jade.

"Peony, forgive me for running off after your performance. That was very rude of me."

"Aw Jade, come on. I'm not that petty, I get it," Peony shrugged, "You had to go. I get it."

"Perhaps, but a lot happened last night for the both of us. With the exemption of Ion's illness and the stress of your play, the fault for such horrors lies with Dist and me," Jade sighed and rubbed the bridge of his nose. "Peony, I am truly sorry."

Peony let his gaze fall to his hands in his lap and nodded his head a couple times, while Jade stood at attention, inwardly intently awaiting Peony to say something. When he didn't say anything, Jade continued briskly.

"We should head back to the apartment. I assume you took Nephry back so we shouldn't let her alone for too long-"

"I'm not angry, Jade," Peony murmured and Jade's voice ended abruptly. "I won't lie and say I'm not upset but, this isn't like the time I dragged you out of that lab. Back then the tables were turned, you were the crazy idiot with a bad obsession. Last night, I guess it was your ghosts coming back to haunt you, and unfortunately, the people you care most about were there too."

"Wouldn't it be nice if 'I'm sorry' really made things better?" Jade asked callously. "I'll spend the rest of my life pained by the sins of my past. I'm sorry that you and Nephry have been affected by my actions. I am also sorry that Saphir has been too."

"Jade, you know I love you right?"

"Yes, but I fail to see the relevance of that fact to the situation at hand."

Peony stood up and pulled Jade into a warm embrace.

"My my, I didn't think you'd be able to stand the sight of me after last night, let alone be near me," Jade said, "I even hoped that would be the case. Perhaps then you would let bygones be bygones."

Peony sighed and only held Jade closer as punishment. It was his turn to smirk when Jade made a disapproving noise and tensed.

"Something Saphir said last night really hurt, well two things I guess," Peony said and grabbed Jade's hand. He led him out the door of the police station and to Nephry's car. "I bet you know, but it was the last thing he said to me. That he hated me and that it wasn't fair."

"Peony, I would ignore-"

"Just hear me out, okay?" Peony asked as he swung the car door shut. "No sarcastic jibes or critical remarks until I've had my say, okay?"

"Oh very well," Jade said, laying his head on the headrest.

"It hurt when Saphir said he hated me, no one's ever said that to me and I've never really picked up that people hated me. I mean, I know I've pissed people off, but not to the extent of hate. The feeling really sucked and was even worse because Saphir's a friend," Peony paused to watch Jade when he said this. As to be expected, Jade sighed but, didn't say a word. "He still is our friend and we're somewhat responsible for him. But that's not really the point I want to make. Jade, I know that people throw negative feelings at you all the time and some probably hate you. Gotta say, it's kind of justifiable, but still...Does it ever get you down?"

"I don't understand the point of discussing this, Peony. Is this because you're upset? Do you want to talk about your feelings?" Jade asked genuinely.

Peony laughed, "No! Jade, I'm worried about you. I realized last night what it feels like to have someone honestly hate me, and it really got to me. I've always felt sorry for you when people would hate on you, but I just kind of brushed it off. So are you alright?"

"Oh my skin's as thin as tissue paper-"

"No sarcasm, bastard."

"Of course I'm fine," Jade said, closing his eyes and rubbing at his temples. Peony reached a hand over and ran his finger in circular motions where Jade had been rubbing. The fact that Jade allowed for Peony to be near and dear with him showed how horrible last night had been for him.

Peony let his hand slip away and Jade remained impassive with his eyes closed and head still resting.

"The other thing..." Peony began tentatively, his eyes lowered to the steering wheel, "The other thing is that that whole scene last night is kind of pointless if we just go our separate ways. Saphir was right in saying that it isn't fair how things ended up."

"And when has life ever been simply fair?" Jade asked. Peony looked up to see Jade glaring at him. He was a little shocked by how anger had crept into those indifferent eyes. "To put your words into a similar, yet opposite perspective, how would it be fair to you if after twenty something years of dreaming and planning to dominate the stage, you give up to stay with me and watch me achieve my goals?"

"Yeah, that is a good point, but...why are you so angry?"

"Because I can't believe how ridiculous you're way of thinking is. You're pushing aside all reason, your future prospects, for something that's not even palpable."

"Aw man," Peony chuckled, inciting Jade's annoyance, "I really have screwed you over. You're really confused aren't you?"

"Yes, I am because you're simple mind is being irrational and illogical in its decision making."

"No, no," again Peony laughed, "what I mean is I opened you up to the crazy idea of actually loving the person you bunk with. And now you're trying to rationalize emotions. Sorry man, but you can't plot love on a graph."

Jade sighed and looked out the window, preferring not to answer Peony lest he tread in the horrible waters of the human heart. However, Peony seemed to be captaining the conversation.

"You don't want me to go either," Peony said with a knowing smile. Jade tried to protest, adopting his indifferent tone, but Peony completely ignored him. "You want me to stay, but all your reason is telling you to make me leave. No wonder you're head's aching, it hates your heart."

"I wouldn't tease me, if I were you, Your Majesty. I'm sure you've heard what rabble-rousers us prison types can be."

"My cute, little Jade," Peony tried saying with a coo in his voice, but he couldn't help laughing when Jade pulled away from Peony's fingers, that tickled under his chin. Jade sighed and turned his face to the window once more. The sun was tingeing the sky yellow where it met the land but, above it remained navy blue with a handful of stars still shinning. Peony slouched against the seat and rubbed his eyes. "Sorry for teasing you. It's been rough lately...just needed a laugh."

While still looking out the window Jade asked, "What would you do if I said I..." Peony could see Jade's brow knit in the reflection of the window and his next words seemed to be for himself. "What would it mean if I said..."

Jade paused and acted as though he had been sitting in silence the entire time. Peony was barely breathing, and he assumed Jade had the same problem since he was statuesque. As the minutes went by Peony's hope seemed to seep from him, like air from a pinhole in a balloon. With nothing else to say, Peony yawned loudly and put the key in the ignition. Jade put his hand on Peony's hand at the ignition and pushed it off the key. When Peony looked questioningly at Jade, he saw Jade was still looking out the window. Jade's other hand was pressing at the bridge of his bruised nose, where his glasses normally sat and it was hard just going by the reflection, but his face looked pale, pained, yet determined. Peony realized this was one of those rare times when Jade was one hundred percent serious and trying to be open.

"Peony...I don't want you to stay," he began. Peony didn't say a word, and waited with bated breath to hear more. "I don't want you to, because it wouldn't be right. So I'm asking you to go, however, I want you to know that I enjoy our time together. I even lo – damn..." he said in a whisper.

"Okay...okay, Jade. I'll go," Peony said just as quietly and started the car.

Nephry hadn't slept at all while Jade and Peony were out, and she was a bit sore that she had been dragged home. She said it was cruel of Peony to leave her to worry alone in an apartment she hardly knew, and in great amounts of emotional stress. Jade tried ordering her to get some rest but, she refused and wanted to know how this whole mess started. So instead of sleeping, the three of them huddled on the couch and Jade and Peony began the story. There were times when Jade would sound disgusted by his actions or times when Nephry's eyes began to well with tears. During those times, they would draw closer to each other, except for Jade, who really had no choice since he sat sandwiched between. When everything was said, Jade and Peony turned to stare at Nephry who was looking down at her lap, both men worried about how she was feeling. Nephry dabbed at her eyes then fixed them with bright eyes and a brave smile.

"You certainly have been busy, both of you..."

"How are you feeling?" Jade asked.

"A little dazed by all that's happened, and sad at how some things turned out, but," her smile became a beam, "I'm also happy about some of the things that have happened. Peony and Jade, you have my blessing."

"Nephry, I thought I made it quite clear, Peony and I are no longer an item," Jade tried to push his glasses up his nose, but he hadn't replaced the pair that he lost at the park. "There's no need for a blessing."

Nephry shot Peony a glance behind Jade's back. Peony shrugged his shoulders, grinned half-heartedly and looked down. Nephry blinked once at Peony and turned her attention back to her brother.

The siblings locked gazes and when Jade realized the disapproving glint in her eyes, he sighed.

"Your Majesty, you look horrible. Perhaps you should get some beauty sleep," Jade suggested.

"Good idea, but I think that goes for all of us."

"True, but I'd like a word with my brother first," Nephry said with a meaningful smile directed at Peony.

Peony took the hint and wandered off down the hall to where he undoubtedly flopped fully clothed on the bed.

"Nephry, before you say anything, I'd like to remind you we are both tired and my fragile heart has already taken a beating."

"I never thought I'd have to say this to you of all people, but dear brother, you are an idiot," she didn't say it nastily, but she truly meant what she said. "Do you have any idea how much that man loves you?"

"Judging but the amount of time he spends mauling and hounding me, I can make a fair guess."

"Do you have any idea how much you love him?" she quipped.

"Of course," he replied genuinely. Though I can't say so directly to him.

Pride and warmth replaced some of the sternness in her eyes. She laid a hand on top of her brothers and gathered her thoughts.

"Then some good has come from this mess," she said solemnly. She squeezed his hand and Jade looked down at their overlapping, pale, slender fingers. "Jade, I had a brief but important talk with Peony last night, just before we found you."

"Oh yes?" he said curiously.

"Jade, even before mother and father died, and especially with the Curtiss family, you were a terror."

"Nephry..." Jade sighed her name. Was I a terror to you? Did I horrify my little sister? Scar her? What a monster I am...

"There were few people that weren't afraid of you, and don't look like that," Jade looked up at Nephry's kind eyes and blinked, unaware that his expression gave away any emotion broiling beneath his skin. I suppose she's just used to reading me. Nephry continued, "I wasn't afraid of you, but I was scared of what you could do to others. I felt responsible for the people you did hurt, like I should have warned them or told them what you were like."

"Nephry, you never were nor are responsible for me," he said firmly.

"You can say that as much as you like, but it's not how I feel. Anyway," Nephry's tone adopted a guilty edge and she blushed a little, "I did warn some people. It was too late for Saphir, but when Peony expressed an interest in a friendship with you, I did warn him."

Jade looked at Nephry's apologetic expression and sighed, a smirk appearing on his face. "I never knew about that, sister; how motherly you are. The odd thing is that His Majesty still persisted and pursued me, what a fool."

"I was shocked by his reaction too. He just shrugged and smiled, and he hasn't changed all that much either. But you have."

Jade looked away from Nephry, over her shoulder to gaze out the window.

"I talked with Peony about how much kinder and genuine you are. You have no idea how relieved and happy I felt. Finally, after almost twenty five years, you were learning how to be kind. And I felt even more elated when I realized and confirmed that you actually loved."

"You make me sound like a perfect monster, Nephry," Jade mocked, his head bowed in feigned grief, "I had a lot of fun back in the day."

"So, that's why I'm giving you my blessing," she continued, ignoring Jade completely, "because I don't think you two are done. Even if Peony's gone for years, I can still see you together."

"Nephry, we already decided that a long-distance relationship-"

"Jade, for once in your life, don't think all the little details through. There are some things in life that just work themselves out, and no one really understands how. Please," Nephry said in what she hoped was a compelling tone, "please try. You both look healthier and happier together. And don't say something like 'anything for you dear sister' because I know you want this."

Jade remained silent and watched Nephry's hand slip from his as she stood, and walked down the hall.

Nephry went home in relatively high spirits a few days later, leaving both men with kisses and a meaningful look at her brother. Jade blinked at her look and when her look took on one of his convincing edges, Jade nodded his head with the barest of nods.

Peony went back to the Dark Wings to sort his departure out with Noir, while Jade spent most of his time studying, though he didn't really need to. Peony had moved into his old bedroom and spoke far less to Jade. Peony had thought for a day, after the incident with Saphir, that Jade was allowing Peony to re-enter his heart, but as soon as the door closed on Nephry, so did the door to their relationship. Jade became very distant and very cold. His responses to Peony were short and absentminded, as though he saw no point in actually thinking about what was being asked of him. What really bothered Peony was when he'd touch or hold Jade, and no response, verbal or physical, could be elicited. Before when Jade didn't want to be intimate, he'd tense or push Peony away, or shot a sarcastic barb at him, but nothing now.

One night while sitting on the couch next to Jade, who had his nose stuck in a book, Peony tried tickling under Jade's chin. When he remained stoic, Peony felt frustration gnaw at his stomach and began a new approach. He slowly ran his hand up Jade's thigh, paused at his fly and again ran his hand down. He repeated this a couple times and after the fifth or so time, began to pull at the zipper. Jade had remarkable self-control, sitting as though he were alone. Peony stopped pulling at the zipper when he saw Jade had responded in no way. To be honest, he was scared that if he were to continue and slip his fingers inside, and Jade still didn't respond, that Jade's unresponsive attitude would mean that Peony had lost more than just Jade's acknowledgement.

So instead of continuing, Peony stood up with a grunt and said in a less than cheery voice, "I've settled things with Noir. I'm leaving in two months, in time to perform one last play. However, if Ion dies I'm staying for the funeral. Goodnight."

He wandered down the hall, leaving Jade to his reading. The funny thing was that Jade hadn't flipped more than two pages the entire time Peony had been sitting there. He only actually focused on the rather dry text when Peony had begun moving his hand up his leg. The rest of the time he was focused on the words in his mind instead.

It was the last couple days before Jade had to return to school and Peony was out at the theatre. For over a week Jade had been thinking to himself, and once or twice he'd called Nephry on the matter. He didn't call her for help or advice just to let her know that he wasn't deliberately hurting Peony, should she find out about her brother's behaviour. Of course she offered him advice and also relayed to him what Peony talked to her about. He wasn't one to waste time, but he also believed in thinking things through and preparing for a less than desirable situation.

It was dark in the apartment, what with the lights out and the sun set as the clock ticked 7:00 PM. Jade sat alone on the couch with his hand pressed to his forehead, his new glasses sitting on the table.

Nephry had said Peony was finding little joy at the theatre these days since Ion was barely hanging on, Anise, the bright light, was burning out, young Florian had lost some of his playful edge and the rest of the cast tried not to flinch when Noir gave out orders to wake them from their premature mourning.

Jade turned his head to look down the pitch hallway to where he deliberately left Peony's door open. His eyes were used to the dark by now so he was able to make out the door.

Saphir's trial would begin soon and Peony had attempted to visit him only once because he'd refused to acknowledge Peony's existence. That happened the night Peony had tried his hardest to gain Jade's attention.

He didn't feel nervous sitting in the dark, waiting for Peony to come home, but he didn't feel certain. There were too many outcomes to possibly think of. That was why he'd been incredibly indifferent the last few days. He didn't want to entice any feelings, negative or positive, until his mind had had its say.

Peony had been doing really well staying afloat when all the happy things in his life sunk into the abyss. All his friends knew that his smile and composure didn't come as easily as he made it seem, but it couldn't be called fake. Guy had commented, and Jade agreed, that the smile could be labelled brave.

Of course, negative feelings couldn't be helped when Jade refused to acknowledge Peony. Jade realized quickly by the dejected look on Peony's face, that his unresponsiveness was a bad thing. The difference between himself and Peony was that when things got tough Peony would smile on. Jade instead would, depending on the gravity of the situation, become more obnoxious or serious. Either way he was bound to be colder. He mused over this thought, but focused on the here and now when he heard Peony at the door.

Opening the door, Peony expected to see Jade reading on the couch or the light on in his room. When he found that he could see nothing because the entire apartment was dark and gloomily quiet, his upper body sagged a little and his bag slipped off his shoulder to the floor. He didn't think he needed to flick on the light, he assumed Jade had buggered off for the night. Even an uncommunicative Jade was better than no Jade. I could really use a distraction right now, but whatever. Something moved in the dark near the couch and Peony tensed. He thought about calling out Jade's name, but would he even respond? Peony doubted it was a burglar, they had little of value other than another bottle of wine his parents had given them, and at this lonely moment in his life, he'd invite the thief to stay for a spell.

Peony closed the door and turned on the light. It was Jade after all, standing in front of the couch with his hands in his pockets and eyes trained on Peony. Peony stared at Jade quizzically and Jade stared smugly back, like he had an answer to a question Peony hadn't even thought of yet. A smile began creeping onto Peony's lips, eliciting a smirk from Jade and they were off in their own little world. Surprisingly, when Jade motioned for Peony to come forward, Jade moved forward and met him halfway.

"You have no idea the day I've had," Peony laughed, though his eyes were serious.

"I think it's more like the week you've had, and I apologize for being absent," Jade said with little sarcasm. "Forgive me, I have been deliberating."

"Well you're head's the only thing you've got going for you, so I guess I can't complain," Peony paused and Jade noticed a flicker of apprehension in those confident blue eyes. Well I can't really blame him for being wary when it comes to my mind, Jade thought. Peony continued, "So how's that brain of yours been? Did it think up anything good?"

"Oh well, my mind has always been plagued with the traumas of my past, but I've come to bear that burden with a strong heart."

"That's my Jade," Peony laughed.

"Indeed, although I don't know if I like the idea of belonging to someone," Jade paused and adopted a serious tone. "I have decided something, and I'd like to gain you're approval."

"Fire away then."

"Very well," Jade put his fingers the bridge of his nose briefly. "I propose that His Majesty deign to consent to a distanced liaison between the two of us in the coming of two months."

"Are you being serious?"

"When have I ever not been? And did I not use very serious words in my proposal?"

"Jade, I know this 'proposal' goes against what you originally wanted and I need to know if this is what you seriously want, and not what you think others are expecting of you," Peony lay a hand on Jade's shoulder and toyed with his long hair thoughtfully.

"I can understand why you may have trouble believing my attempt at sincerity; I am a terribly cold person."

"Jade, we are way past that point, and you know it."

"Indeed," his smirk widened. "Well, I may as well be honest with you; I'm not sure if I want this because I've never been in such a situation, nor considered it. So for the past week I have considered it and thought of as many possible outcomes. The worst case ends up with one of us killing the other, but since that's illegal and we will be distanced, there is a very slim chance of that occurring. I digress...

"Considering who you are and considering who I am, I came to the conclusion that it may be possible to maintain a faithful relationship."

"Who I am? Who you are?" Peony asked and teasing Jade's face with the hair wrapped around his finger.

"I don't seek relationships as you know, so it's unlikely I'll ensue in another romantic adventure. And His Highness is hopelessly romantic so I can't see you deviating from this odd sort of bond. What's wrong now, Your Majesty?"

Peony stopped pestering Jade and stared dolefully at him, his hand again resting on Jade's shoulder.

"I'd wait years for you."

"How nice."

Peony ignored the barb and grinned anew.

"So, Your Majesty- Peony, will you accept?"

"You seriously want this?"

Jade's resolve was wearing thin. These situations were not desirable to him because he was a cold person and found that expressing his feelings wasn't something he enjoyed, and too often people thought he was joking.

Jade caught the hand playing with his hair and lowered it to Peony's side. He turned and began walking down the hall.

"If you would follow."

Peony walked after him to where he stood by Peony's open, bedroom door. Jade had his hands in his pockets and glanced pointedly into the room.

Peony didn't know what to expect; roses and candles? Yeah frickin' right, he laughed at himself. He shouldn't have been surprised, but he was. The room was back to the way it was before Nephry had arrived. The desk had been moved to Jade's room, along with his books, but was now back in the corner. Peony's clothes weren't heaped on the floor due to the lack of a closet, and were presumably tucked away in Jade's room. Also, his mattress no longer had sheets and had been moved to lean against the wall instead of lying flat on the ground.

"How am I going to sleep if my bed's like that?" Peony joked.

Jade sighed, "Ha, ha. Don't joke, I could die from sheer hilarity."

Peony gazed around the room, beaming like an idiot while Jade watched him closely. It's just like the controlling bastard to pull me around like this, Peony thought, he doesn't ask me to come back, he moves me for me. I can't say it bugs me though...I'll get him back.

As though he had read Peony's mind, Jade said, "I think I've made my intentions clear, albeit domineeringly. This should be enough proof that I am not minimizing my feelings in any way."

"Okay, okay. I believe you," Peony turned to Jade and put his hands on Jade's hips, pulling him closer to kiss his lips. Jade responded willingly, thinking, My my, I've surprised myself. I never realized that I actually missed this.

They apologized without words for the hurt they inflicted on each other and because too often, it had been words that caused the pain. Jade allowed for some of his control to be lost in the way that Peony held him close and breathlessly whispered endearing, or teasing words when his face was close to Jade's. Peony was a little surprised that Jade allowed this, but took it in full storm, knowing that this was one of his unseen ways to be romantic. Jade also hadn't said a word when Peony had led him into what used to be Peony's room, and tipped the mattress down. Jade understood the symbolism; this room had never held them, only as separate entities. Jade's room held memories of the past and with Peony's belongings in Jade's closet again, that room was for reconnecting to what they had had. Also, they were in Peony's domain where romantic gestures weren't taboo and impossibilities became possible with his creativity.

At the moment, as Peony broke from Jade and leaned over him with a warm grin, Peony felt with full force the passion Jade had for him. Jade was a man of rules, but of course he'd broken some before. Such as the ethical ones he ignored when working with Saphir to recreate the Professor. Those rules had been broken out of desire, emotion and curiosity. Jade had also broken rules in order to enter a relationship with Peony. The obvious one he'd broken was to not place himself in a relationship because a) they were meant to provide for emotional needs, which he didn't deign to need.

Jade looked up at Peony with interest as to why he'd slowed down, and continued to grin. Peony swept Jade's bangs from his forehead and placed a long, gentle kiss where too often Jade had felt the stress of a headache.

And b) the person he would (in theory) be with, would want those emotional sensitivities that he could not provide.

For no more than a few seconds, Jade traced Peony's jaw and cheek with the ghost of a finger, while Peony's lips were connected to his forehead.

There were other rules of course, such as he'd have to get to know the person and there were few people on this planet worth the effort.

Jade laced his fingers in Peony's hair, close to his scalp. With a sigh, Peony leaned into Jade's grasp and pulled away from his forehead.

There were even fewer people who could stand being in the same general vicinity as Jade, let alone desire to get to know him. So he shouldn't bother trying to find someone; he would be wasting his time and that was something he did not believe in.

When their lips touched again, Peony met Jade's almost harsh kiss with the same strength. He could feel Jade's lips break into a smirk against his. Peony flexed his belly muscles and pressed harder against Jade.

He hadn't exactly broken this rule with Peony, but that was because there was mutual respect between them, despite what either of them called the other. He didn't believe that a healthy life could be lived if someone claimed to own another, which tended to happen in relationships.

Peony laughed in a strained voice, "Pet...cute little..."

Jade replied with heavy sarcasm, "Your Majesty."

Jade had never enjoyed anyone controlling any aspect of his life and so, he'd never let anyone have even a little control. Well, that rule had already chipped a bit that night.

Jade pulled his face away as his body tensed, but Peony pulled him close again. Instead of pushing Peony away with a hurtful jibe or punishing kiss, Jade met Peony's lips with relative kindness. Peony made a surprised noise, but said nothing as he tensed.

He didn't exactly have a rule not to care, but he held emotional rational with little esteem. And at some points in his life, he didn't give a damn about feelings and aimed to hurt anyone who expressed their feelings. Perhaps that was another control issue. He wanted to control himself, and strong emotions meant sacrificing resolve or creating a means for another to gain control. Perhaps that was why that statement eluded his tongue. To him 'I love you' broke about every rule and belief he had and he knew Peony would never accept a confession of love if it was devoid of meaning.

Jade lay next to Peony, both their chests heaving, and minds a little clearer. Peony scooted closer again and cuddled Jade, but was careful not to get too lovey-dovey in case Jade whipped out his forked tongue.

"My my, I forgot how clingy you are, Your Majesty."

"Sorry, I can't help it. You're just so warm and loveable," Peony said without laughing and a straight face to boot. His resolve melted though when Jade sighed, and he dissolved to laughter.

"I don't mean to ruin the moment, but it's important that you consider this now while the memory's still fresh," Jade said in his usual tone. Peony sighed but didn't interrupt. "You realize that in a couple months we may not even have time to call let alone ensue in carnal activities-"

"And you want to know if I'll remain faithful? I didn't know you were so chaste, Jade."

"No, I'm not so concerned about 'faith'. It's not something I put a lot of stock in, but," and Jade smirked, "you know that you won't be able to touch me, or play with hair, which you oh so love doing. Will that not bother you?"

"Yeah, it will."

"Then I ask you, are you sure-"

"Absolutely. Besides, I want you so no one else will do."

Jade sighed and Peony put his face to Jade's chest and chuckled. "Your Highness, I know you don't particularly favour this organ, but could you at least think for a moment?"

"I have and I could again, but my mind's made up. I'll wait," Peony lifted his head and rested his chin on Jade's chest to look into Jade's eyes. He grinned and said, "I already waited a decade for this chance, so I think I'm good."

Author's Note: The next and final chapter won't be out until Sunday. Thank you all for reading and if possible, could you review to tell me what you liked or didn't like? Once again, thank you for reading!