YAMI NO MATSUEI

RAGNAROK DESCENDS

Chapter Eight – Heartstrings

To the Reader

Thanks for your patience in waiting very long for this story update.

Yami no Matsuei is a shounen-ai series (boys' love, guy / guy relation, or insinuations of guy / guy relationships other than friendship). Ragnarok Descends is a sequel to Apocalypse Rising.

As much as one can read this story as a stand-alone, some of the characters and situations contained in this story unfolded in Kyoto Files Revisited and Apocalypse Rising as well as other stand-alone YnM fics such as The Shadows of My Past (a Tatsumi-centric, first-person POV fic which explores Tatsumi's life before the events portrayed in the manga series).

Ragnarok Descends will continue to explore darker themes and heavily-debated issues. Just like its predecessor fics, Ragnarok Descends will have violence, gory scenes, and angst.

Yes, plenty of angst….

And to answer the question of some readers via their reviews or personal email, yes… There will be much more of Muraki Kazutaka in this story.

To everyone, happy reading! Let me know what you think via reviews (especially if there are things that can be improved for the subsequent chapters, or things that you would like to keep or see as the story progresses.

Disclaimer

I do not own Yami no Matsuei and its lovable characters. However, I do own this fic, Troy Tsuuri (and the depiction of Abigor and Ashtarote in all my YnM fanfics), Asukawa Mako (Tatsumi's mentor and father figure from long ago), Chief Satori, and other original characters that have made an appearance in my YnM fanfics.

Location: Surrounding Neighborhood, Minoru Konoe's Residence

"Let me go!"

Tsuzuki's grip on Hisoka's wrist became stronger still, doing his best to draw Hisoka close without hurting him.

Putting up a fight, Hisoka did everything that he could to pull away. The more successful that Tsuzuki was in overpowering him, the more that he resisted as his entire being begged for a way out.

"Stop, Hisoka! Please stop!" yelled Tsuzuki as he drew Hisoka in and trapped him in a hug. For a split second, their eyes met, making his already-heavy heart agonize even more.

"Let me go, now!"

As the younger man kicked and elbowed whatever way possible for release, Tsuzuki increased his efforts in keeping his hold, "I'm sorry! Whatever I did wrong, please forgive me!"

"Don't apologize!" yelled Hisoka, putting up an even greater fight.

Their eyes met once more, with this very moment lingering longer than before….

Hisoka felt as if his heart was being crushed by the weight of all the burdens and sorrows that plagued him since Tsuzuki left for the Pits of Hell, thinking, "How can you say, 'I'm sorry' when you don't remember anything?"

"Hisoka…."

For Hisoka, all of those barely-contained emotions flooded back in with a vengeance, beating him into total submission. The more that he chose to fight back for control, the more that he dared to stare into his long-lost lover's eyes. Half of him rebelled and wanted to put up a deceptive mask to salvage whatever little dignity he had left. The other half wanted freedom from the pain, but now being cautious in not banking too much on hope...or love.

Tsuzuki's gentle face mirrored what was happening at the deepest part of his being. His amethyst eyes glistened from the held-back tears that he could no longer hold back. The core of his being shuddered, feeling so vulnerable and naked. He begged, "Please talk to me, Hisoka… Please…"

The younger man's body shook more violently from the internal strife, as Tsuzuki's emotions flooded out and filled him as well. His hands balled into quivering fists, and his nails embedded against the palm of his hands. His heart ached, screaming and shaking out all the feelings trapped inside him while fighting off the emotions seeping from the outside and now suffocating him. He wanted to turn away and remove his gaze from the other, but each passing second made it harder to do so.

Hisoka's knees finally bucked as the non-stop psychic bombardment took a physical toll on his body. He fell on his knees, his arms wrapping around his knees before the other. As he quietly sobbed before Tsuzuki, his mind kept screaming the repeated thought, "You've forgotten about me…about us… How can you understand? You didn't do anything wrong because you don't remember…"

The amethyst-eyed shinigami knelt before Hisoka, his hand gently resting on the other's back as he let soothing and soft shushing sounds escape from his lips in hopes to comfort the other. His heart wanted to shatter into myriad pieces, but he did his best to hold it together for the sake of the other. He closed his eyes, drawing down into the well of his heart and pouring all that he could give for the one now before him. He affectionately kissed Hisoka's head and protectively cuddled him.

The emotional walls that Hisoka held up for so long had finally caved in. He hugged Tsuzuki as if his life depended on it, all while he continued to cry on the other's shoulder. His body shook even more, and his heart ached as the yearnings and longing that he had were now within reach – starting from the now-reciprocated hug, as well as the comfort and security that it brought from Tsuzuki.

A soft smile escaped from Tsuzuki's lips while he allowed the tears that continued to pool at the corners of his eyes to flow freely. He whispered in Hisoka's ear, "Ever since I woke up, I knew that a big part of me is missing. That feeling became worse when I saw you in Chijou."

Hearing those words coming from Tsuzuki made Hisoka muster every courage he had to look into Tsuzuki's eyes as the latter continued, "You ask me as to how I could understand? It's your eyes and how they stared back at me. I could drown in them…they said everything that I needed to know. I couldn't stop thinking about you. Seeing you here…being with you…I now know that you are that answer itself. You are that big part of me that's been missing. You are that missing piece that I've been searching for all this time…."

"Do you remember anything…anything at all?"

Tsuzuki shook his head, his eyes still transfixed on Hisoka as the back of his finger gently wiped away the tears that quietly streamed down to Hisoka's cheek. "My heart tells me, though, that all of you mean the world to me. Memory, or no memory, I know that you most especially hold a special place here in my heart…."

"Tsuzuki," Hisoka whispered, the tears once again escaping from him.

As he swept away strands of hair from Hisoka's eyes, Tsuzuki thought, "We should pick a more comfortable spot and talk there…that'll help soothe Hisoka…but I like this…holding him like this…."

Hisoka looked at Tsuzuki for a long time, his eyes searching and his heart warming to the fact that the one before him – memory, or no memory – was still the same gentle soul that he gave himself to and had loved with his all, despite everything that had happened. Deciding to take the risk, even if it meant overloading, he requested, "Help me up, then…."

"Huh..?"

"You wanted a more comfortable place to talk, right?"

Still caught off-guard, Tsuzuki replied, "Yes, but –"

Doing his best to sound matter-of-factly, Hisoka said, "We'll continue everything we've left off here at our next spot."

Tsuzuki shook his head, confused and asking himself more questions.

"—How did I know, Tsuzuki…?"

Gathering his thoughts, Tsuzuki finally deduced, "You…read my mind…? You read minds?"

Hisoka's gaze rested on Tsuzuki as he explained, "I'm an empath. People's thoughts and feelings come to me loud and clear. You and I are also linked. Your thoughts and emotions come much clearer to me than anyone else's thoughts. You can also read my thoughts and feelings just as an empath would."

Tsuzuki got up, offering Hisoka a soft smile as he gave his hand for Hisoka to take.

Taking the offered assistance, Hisoka rose from his knelt position. His knees and body were still shaky. He dusted off the knees of his jeans with his right hand.

"Am I an empath, too?"

The emerald-eyed shinigami shook his head, then replied, "You have a different set of powers. You have powers which you have on your own. You also have 12 shikigami who you've befriended and have helped you when you need them. You lost your memory recently. All your memories about your life as a human being in Chijou are gone. The same happened to all your memories as a shinigami in Meifu. All those memories explain how you and I have bonded together. As of now, according to Abigor, you only remember your time before you became human and after the Inquisition."

After letting out a sigh, Tsuzuki said, "I must have remembered something. I was drawn to come here. I wanted to see and talk to you."

Hisoka affectionately tightened his hold of Tsuzuki's hand, thinking, "Your mind might have forgotten, but I guess the heart doesn't forget that easily."

Tsuzuki let a heartfelt smile escape from his lips which both warmed and gripped Hisoka's heart at the same time.

Hisoka did everything that he could to hold back his tears in hopes to have a reign of his emotions. All efforts failed once more when he reciprocated Tsuzuki's gesture with a soft smile. Teardrops betrayed him as they began streaming down his cheeks.

"Hey… Everything will be fine, Hisoka…. I'm back… Please be patient with me…. We'll figure things out together…so please help me remember..." whispered Tsuzuki, now shedding more tears of his own as he began drowning from gazing into those emerald eyes. He wiped the other's tears with the back of his finger. Instincts, however, led him to give the younger man…the lover that he had forgotten…another comforting hug. He closed his eyes as the hug between them became warmer and tighter. The tighter and the longer that their hug linger, the more that Tsuzuki's heart gave his fog-addled brain the clarity that he sought for what seemed to be an eternity.

The younger shinigami melted into that exchanged embrace. No matter how hard it was for him due to possible overload at any given second due to the floodgates from Tsuzuki's own emotions, he welcomed it. Whatever he read and had been psychically receiving from Tsuzuki this very moment was more than enough validation that he had a strong foothold in Tsuzuki's heart and soul. As the embrace continued, he thought,

"Too much going on…so confused… Please come back and stay with us. Stay with me…. I love you, Tsuzuki…. I need you, most especially now."

All this time, Tsuzuki had his eyes closed as he basked in the moment that he and Hisoka now shared. Not knowing that he merely read Hisoka's thoughts, Tsuzuki replied, "I love you too, Hisoka…. I may not remember anything right now, but everything in me knows that I love you…"

"You kept your promise to me at Kyoto. I'm still there in your heart… You still keep me in there…"

Still not caught on with the fact that Hisoka was not talking out loud, Tsuzuki said in a near-whisper, "Whatever you and I have, Hisoka… Saying what I just told you… Holding you like this…. Everything about this…all of this… Everything feels right…."

Tsuzuki drew away from the embrace. He then closed his eyes and planted a kiss on Hisoka's forehead at first. He then followed the dictates of his heart. He kissed Hisoka on the lips, pouring out all the tenderness and warm feelings that he harbored in his heart.

Hisoka was more than happy to receive and reciprocate. As much as it suffocated and hurt him physically and psychically, he welcomed it while pushing the limits of his mind, body, and soul. The kiss between them grew deeper, with Hisoka clinging on to Tsuzuki and not wanting to let go even if it meant catching up on much-needed breath.

Eventually, the two lovers ended the kiss. They gazed deeply in each other's eyes, with Hisoka nodding his head to acknowledge that he was now ready to take that walk with Tsuzuki. After all, they have much to talk about.

The two did not notice the soft rain of white feathers that showered behind them as well as the figure in white intently watching the scene that just happened…only to disappear back into the darkness from where it first came.

Location: Gensoukai

The twelve divine Shikigami as well as Kurikara stopped from all activity, turned towards the new arrivals, and bowed before them.

Sohryu said with such warmth, "Welcome back, Hajime-sama…Lady Kannuki…."

Wakaba gave a radiant smile to everyone, as he held on to Terazuma's arm more affectionately. "Please, everyone… We're friends…family…"

Terazuma added, "She's right. I'm one of you. Please call me Terazuma, or even Hajime. I'm sure that Wakaba feels the same…she'd prefer to be called Wakaba, or Kannuki."

Kijin, Sohryu's son, explained, "With all due respect, you are the Golden Emperor. It is just befitting to someone of your station to be addressed with regard."

Terazuma approached Kijin, rested his hand on the other's shoulder, and then gazed into the other's eyes. The smile that he gave Kijin was warm, grateful, yet humble. "Yes, that may be the case, but we are…should…be family first. The only way that we can heal from the past is by working on it together."

Terazuma then moved his gaze from Kijin and looked at everyone, chuckling a bit before he added, "Blame it on stubbornness, or being human once upon a time. I'm really not used to having my name associated with the honorifics associated with royalty."

Old Genbu, wise as ever, offered, "We hear your request, Hajime. However, allow us to address you properly—when and only when—we are around the presence of beings outside this family circle and your family circle at the Shokan Division. That way, all of us would be comfortable on a first-name basis around each other; and at the same time let everyone outside our circles properly know who you are to this realm. I believe that this is an equitable compromise?"

The couple looked at each other and exchanged a smile, with Terazuma telling everyone, "That sounds fine with us, as long as everyone's okay with that?"

Everyone gave his or her nod, save for Byakko who gave Terazuma a thumbs-up.

Sohryu's daughter, Tenko, inquired, "Hajime-chan... did you and Kannuki-chan see Tsuzuki-chan?"

All the shikigami fell silent with the question, for Tsuzuki remained in their minds and worries.

Terazuma squatted before Tenko, meeting her hopeful gaze with a soft smile and a nod.

Suzaku asked, "So how is Tsuzuki doing? Is he all right? How come he has not paid us a visit?"

Wakaba could not hide her sadness as she told everyone, "Tsuzuki-chan still doesn't have his memory back. Hisoka-kun and Tsuzuki-chan are taking a walk together. We left the others behind, but we need to return quickly."

After giving Tenko an affectionate pat on the shoulder, Terazuma stood up from his crouched position. "Tsuzuki, Hisoka, and Tatsumi are on a mission with the primordials."

Everyone's eyebrow rose.

Terazuma, feeling the suspicion resonating within all the shikigami before him, reassured them, "It's not as bad as it sounds. Kacho asked Lord Abigor to help Tatsumi look for his mentor and adoptive father."

"Are you referring to Asukawa Mako…?" asked Touda, "The first and only anointed kagetsukai master…the one who has been missing for half a century?"

"Yes, Touda," murmured Terazuma, "The very one…"

The entire room was silent for a few moments, but Terazuma broke the ice of silence by sharing with everyone, "Kannuki and I have to stay around for Gensoukai, the Shokan Division, and Meifu. I know that you cannot use your powers to protect Tsuzuki unless he summons any of you. Accompanying him in spirit to observe, though, is not forbidden…so if there are a few of you who wish to volunteer for this mission as an observer then you're more than welcome to go."

"I will go," declared Kurikara with a quiet air of confidence. "That way, I will be close to Hisoka's aid and keep him and the rest of his party safe."

"So will I," said Touda.

Suzaku and Byakko, who stood side-by-side, looked at each other and shared the same thought. Byakko then told Terazuma and Wakaba, "Count the two of us in."

Terazuma looked towards Sohryu's direction, the latter looking composed. Terazuma, however, knew that Sohryu was conflicted inside. "My friend, I know that you would want to go, too. However, you and I both know that it would be best if you stay in Gensoukai…not just for the kingdom but also for your children. There is no shame in that…no honor lost… I would like to talk to you more before Kannuki and I leave. We need to be prepared for anything so that our home…our land…is safe…"

After a nod, Sohryu stated, "Yes, Hajime-kun. I understand."

"Thank you…. Thank you all. I…." Terazuma then paused, looking at everyone and doing his best to pick the right words to say. He also did his best to have his gaze rest at an equal length of time for each being in the room as he told everyone, "These are hard times. Let's work together in keeping our home and our land safe, if not untouched. As soon as they return from their mission, I will ask Tsuzuki to come visit us here at Gensoukai."

Rikujo, the astrologer, said as hope and happiness swelled in his heart for the first time since his master left for the Pits of Hell, "That will be great. We have all missed Tsuzuki."

"I know," murmured Terazuma, saddened and in agreement with the others.

Terazuma then glanced at Wakaba's direction, allowing his sadness to be swept away upon seeing his companion's hopeful and warm smile. As he clasped her hand tightly, he told the shikigami, "Kannuki and I have happy news to share with you, my friends…."

Everyone showed his or her respective happiness as Terazuma raised Wakaba's hand, showing the ring that now lay on her finger along with sharing news regarding their engagement and upcoming wedding.

Location: Konoe's residence, Garden

Caer and Abigor closely sat side-by-side facing each other on the bench that Konoe and Mako made, the two primordials choosing to focus on particular spots under the shade of the vine-draped pergola. Caer was comfortable resting his back against one of the vine-draped pergola's posts, gazing at Abigor while the latter's mind remained preoccupied with many thoughts as he held his lover's right hand. The two took comfort in the silence and in each other's company while enjoying the breeze and staying at the well-tended garden of flowers, vegetables, fruit trees, and plants.

"My brother and your son… They complement and complete each other, do they not?"

Caer's question snapped Abigor's thoughts back to who was before him. He then replied to his lover, "Yes… Yes, they do…."

Caer's gazed into Abigor's eyes, as if he wished to gather more answers other than what was truthfully provided to him. "Is that why you counseled your son? You wish for him to win Verus back from Muraki?"

Abigor let out a short, quiet chuckle before admitting, "If Hisoka wins back Tsuzuki-san, Muraki immensely suffers. Petty as that might be, I will settle for that type of revenge. Tsuzuki Asato might be Verus right now, but I would not count out that the human and shinigami are still very much alive deep within him."

"Remember, though, that Muraki's misdeeds freed me. He is not all that evil, as you think he might be."

"Freeing you and our siblings... That is the only good that came out from his deeds…. that, and him being instrumental in revealing Enma's true nature. Also remember that part of our covenant includes an amendment. Muraki is never allowed to directly harm my son. If he even lays a finger on Hisoka, I will destroy him," said a tight-lipped Abigor, his charcoal-gray eyes changing momentarily to a fiery red.

As an effort to keep his anger at bay, Abigor caressed Caer's hand with his thumb during the long silence between them. He let out a sigh, his eyes lowering so that he could focus on the affectionate gesture that he now bestowed on the other. After he stopped caressing Caer's hand, he then cradled Caer's hand and rested it on top of his. He fell quiet, his gaze transfixed on their hands while his thoughts began to wander off once more.

"Why are you so sad, my Love?" a concerned Caer mentally asked Abigor. "If there is anything that I can do to help you?"

Abigor closed his eyes, letting a sad smile to escape from his lips…his voice laced with melancholy and at the same time hope as he said, "I just want Tsuzuki-san and Hisoka to be happy, Caer. I would love for them to stay with us at the Pits of Hell. Either that, or they visit us often while they have a home and an existence here in Meifu. Happiness can be within their reach. All of that is now possible without Enma's meddling. This whole series of events...the loss of Tsuzuki-san's memory...puts a great challenge in them becoming happy...at peace..."

"The choice is theirs to make, Abigor. They have to choose...want...to be happy and at peace. It would never happen for either of them unless they choose that for themselves and fight to achieve it, if needs be..."

The two were quiet again, as if Caer was trying to find the words to explain himself and at the same time not offend Abigor even though he knew that Abigor was not one who would get easily offended.

Finally, Caer decided to share the thoughts that have been occupying his mind of late as he started by saying, "Maybe things do happen for a reason. If it happened for us, maybe the same was meant to happen for Verus and Hisoka…that Verus had to become Tsuzuki Asato…that they both had to go through everything…."

As Abigor lifted his head and looked at Caer, the latter continued explaining, "Take, for example, the long delay in our relationship. Maybe the results would have been different if you and I had come together much sooner than now. Maybe the state of our beings before rendered us incapable to love and be loved back. Maybe all the events that had happened since you first left Makai had to happen before we truly found out what we are to each other. You have changed so much since then. Slowly but surely, so have I.

"Change…?" was all that Abigor could muster to mumble.

Caer's ice-blue gaze rested on Abigor, all while he opened his thoughts so that Abigor would fully understand what he had to say. "The way that you see everything—all of it is so new to me. Before, I considered matters that you hold dear as intriguing yet trivial. Before, they were simply matters left for never-ending and invigorating debate between us. Now, though, I want to fully understand as to why you believe in the things that you do. I figured that if I tried to understand matters the way that you see them, maybe I would get to know everything about you. Maybe through that, I want to understand as to why my youngest brother chose to become human…to become Tsuzuki Asato. Maybe, after eons, I would finally understand everything that I have been feeling."

Abigor touched and cupped Caer's cheek with his right hand. "We are both doing the same. We have shared a bond throughout the eons. I have most especially learned much since you and I have been together. I still have much to learn, though…."

As the two lovers exchanged soft, knowing smiles, Caer commented, "You are no different from Brother Verus."

"Meaning…?"

Caer matter-of-factly stated, "You are still too kind…. too kind for your own good…"

With a playful frown and a small smirk, Abigor asked, "Is that a good thing, or a bad thing?"

Caer chuckled, teasing back by saying, "Neither..."

Feigning nonchalance, Abigor then replied, "Maybe you are right, and maybe not…."

A long pause then stood between the two lovers.

Abigor was the first who broke the spell of comfortable silence between them, with Abigor squeezing the other's hand.

Caer sighed and smiled, welcoming and reciprocating Abigor's affectionate hand-holding. Wishing to unburden another worry in his mind, he said, "I know that your original intent was for you and Tatsumi to go by yourselves. Brother Lumys and I have discussed this already, and we would like to accompany you to the Pool of Chaos. I also propose for at least Brother Mirmi to join Brother Lumys and me to accompany you in Makai for your campaign. If our other siblings wish to come, they can also help you when needed. It would placate many of my concerns. Would you consider my proposal?"

Abigor gave his lover a nod. "I have...and you are right. I do want all of our siblings to come with us to the Pool of Chaos and Makai. I want Hisoka and Tsuzuki-san to accompany us on Tatsumi-san's journey, too. Out of consideration for the Shokan Division men and Tatsumi-san most especially, I do not wish for Muraki to accompany us to the Pool of Chaos. However, I am going to invite Muraki to Makai. I know that the Shokan Division, Hisoka most especially, would not like this decision of mine but Muraki is one of us...and I respect that he has a special place in Tsuzuki-san's heart. I will have a heart-to-heart talk with Muraki before I extend the invitation."

"Do you wish me to be present during that conversation?"

"Brother Dymion will be there so I would not be alone." There was a certain sadness that enveloped Abigor as he thought about the rather sensitive dynamics which involve everyone regarding Muraki. "I think that the message will be conveyed differently if I come alone to talk and extend the invitation. I am still feeling raw about Muraki, but I respect our siblings' feelings about him...especially Dymion and Tsuzuki-san..."

Minor feelings of annoyance and disdain drifted back for Caer as he let out a sigh. For the sake of Abigor, he tried his best to keep his disgust and temper in check. "Konoe's men should be more thankful and less doubtful towards you. They ask for too much from you. What you have agreed to do for them is beneath your station. You have been reduced to a lowly guide, especially since one of your domains as a demon lie in uncovering what is lost. I am glad that you choose to stand your ground when it comes to who you invite to your home in Makai."

"Their doubts do not matter to me. I gave them my word that I would help them. If we are successful, the journey offers a mutual benefits. They benefit, and so do we - especially when it comes to our cause. I also have something personal at stake here."

Perceiving that Caer was searching for more answers, Abigor opened his eyes and allowed his thoughts to serve as an open book for the other to read.

Caer's eyes widened, with amusement, surprise, and curiosity mingling with the worry that had taken root inside him. "Does Konoe know?"

"No…"

"I understand your sentiments, Abigor. Believe me, I do. However, consider the fact that you have sacrificed much for them already. When does it stop?"

"I care about them, Love. Those emotions…those bonds…no sacrifices, feats, declarations, or passage of time could sever them – especially the ones that are shared between those who love and care about each other. Despite their doubts, they care for me, too."

Abigor was as authentic and as emotionally vulnerable as he could be when he continued to tell the other, "I could not turn my back…I refuse to turn my back. I would not do it then, and I most especially would not do it now. I know how much it hurts to lose someone…most especially as a son, a grandson, and a father…to never have peace because of that loss…."

"Just as I have said earlier, you are too kind…too kind for your own good…but I would not have it—or you—any other way…" Caer continued to look at Abigor's handsome face, studying the mystery embodied by the lover before him which for eons had warmed his heart and most recently his bed.

After pausing from sorting through his thoughts and emotions, Caer told Abigor, "While we are all in Makai, why do we not give Makai the very thing that its council and citizens have been asking for from you?"

Abigor looked puzzled. He blinked his eyes. "I do not understand…."

Caer gave Abigor a small smile. "Hold my hand and close your eyes. Reach out and see…feel…for yourself as to what I have in mind."

And Abigor followed Caer's instruction, his eyes then opening and going wide at first and then resting contentedly on Caer. He was in a state of disbelief for a long while. He was more than assured that his lover had put a lot of thought into what was in the latter's mind. Although so many thoughts and emotions flooded within him, his thoughts screamed loud and clear as to what his answer was for Caer.

Caer kissed Abigor's hand, unable to help himself from chuckling when Abigor said, "This goes against your nature…our nature…. What would your siblings say?"

Smiling warmly, Caer replied, "If you wish to wait once everything is settled, then so be it. If you want to think matters thoroughly before it happens, I understand. Let everyone call it for what he or she thinks. You and I know our true intentions for each other. That, and most especially your answer, are the two details that only matter to me."

Hiding his seriousness behind a wry smile, Abigor asked, "What if I want it as soon as possible – what do you have to say about that?"

Faking dismissiveness while raising an eyebrow, Caer answered with a smirk, "Impractical and rash, for starters…. Very much unlike you…."

Abigor pursed his lips as he could psychically read the laundry list of names or words that Caer could teasingly associate with Abigor's current state of mind …with Caer being his usually-playful self with the other. He mischievously repeated the other's thoughts. "Hmmm… Decisive. Certain. And yes…impractical, rash, and fanciful."

"Petty? I am petty?" Abigor stopped for a minute, chuckling as he saw Caer's smile turn impish. Abigor's smile became warmer still as he accessed Caer's thoughts, continuing his list. "Reckless. Could-care-less. That sums it up. It feels right on all counts. And that is what matters most, does it not?"

Caer responded with no words. He took Abigor's hand and kissed it.

With his feelings pushing him back to the thoughts that have been plaguing him of late, Abigor asked, "Caer… Will you still feel the same way if I judge that Chijou should be spared? Would you still feel the same way if we are pitted on opposite sides once again…?"

As he continued to hold Abigor's hand, which now rested on his lap, Caer asked, "Is that why you seem unsettled on some occasions? Do you fear losing me? You fear the day that we turn against each other. Is this what it is all about?"

"I will be lying to you if I say no."

"You should not be afraid. I will not simply throw away what you and I have. I will not simply let you go—especially not this time, now that you and I are together. Do you understand?"

Abigor nodded and became teary-eyed when Caer added as gentle as he could, "You were right, Abigor…there were strings attached when you and I shared my bed during the Inquisition trials. Starting that night, we chose each other. I would not have it any other way, nor would I want to be freed from any of those strings that now bind us together. So never think…or fear…that what we share…us…will just disappear…be thrown away. I fought all these eons to have you and your love. Now that I have them, I will never let them go. Believe that truth, and believe in me…"

Allowing the tears to escape from him, Abigor's teardrops fell on their clasped hands. His thoughts, uncertainties, and fears laid bare before his lover to know and feel.

Reading his lover's thoughts made his heart ache. He drew Abigor closer, touching the other's chin and inviting the other to meet his gaze. "You have given my siblings and me far more than what any of us could ask of you. You have no fault, so why feel guilty? Even if you choose to listen to my coaxing about sharing yourself with another man or woman, I am certain of my place. I know that I am the only one who resides in your heart and mind…the only one who now, and will always have, that very special part of you…"

Abigor nodded and smiled. He then closed his eyes, taking in a deep breath while he affectionately tightened his hold of the other's hand. Once he opened his eyes, he said,

"I love you, Caer…."

"And I love you too, Abigor…."

Caer rested his forehead against Abigor's forehead. Moments later, the two kissed….an out-pour of love, passion, hunger, and need that the two had and shared with each other.

When the shared kiss ended, Caer said in a soft voice, "I will be by your side throughout all of this. I love you. Nothing will change this fact. You will always have my unequivocal love and support. You need to clear your head and be present to what lies before you. Your safety and success depend of it. Once you are done clearing your head, do not have doubts anymore…at least doubts pertaining about us…all right?"

A teary-eyed Abigor nodded once more.

Tatsumi, Lumys, and Konoe stood by for a couple of minutes from a distance. Lumys gave Tatsumi a silent nod, once he gauged that things have settled between the two lovers.

"They are coming," murmured Abigor, taking in a deep breath to compose himself. He kissed Caer chastely on the lips and said "Thank you again, my Love…"

Once the three approached and took refuge under the pergola, Tatsumi told Caer and Abigor, "Forgive us for interrupting, my lords. Do you know where Kurosaki-kun and Tsuzuki-san have gone to?"

Straightening up from his comfortable position, Caer responded, "They went for a walk. They will be back very soon."

Tatsumi and Konoe nodded, pausing for a moment.

Abigor, quietly taking in a deep breath to regain his composure, then asked, "What do you specifically wish to accomplish at the Pool of Chaos, Tatsumi-san? What is our goal?"

Tatsumi straightened his glasses, and then looked at Abigor. "Enma buried him here, hoping that he would never be found. I will retrieve my father and mentor. I will bring him back to Meifu and give him the burial that had been denied to him all this time. Once that's done, I will help in your campaign in Makai. It is the least that I can do to repay the favor."

"I do hope you would not mind the added company on our journey, Tatsumi-san. We have four joining us—Caer, Lumys, Hisoka, and Tsuzuki-san. The rest of Caer and Lumys' siblings will be joining us this evening at Kacho's home. They all might join us for our journey. If all goes well, I hope that all of us can share an evening meal together…get to know each other…before we depart for our journey."

"That's fine, Abigor, as long as Tsuzuki-san doesn't cook," was Tatsumi's reply.

Abigor chuckled, shuddering from the thought. "I second that…."

Caer stirred, cheer laced in his voice when he said, "I would love to taste Brother Verus' cooking."

Lumys agreed with Caer, giving everyone a warm smile. "That will be something to look forward to, especially if he cooks as well as Tatsumi-san here..."

Tatsumi, Konoe, and Abigor stared at each other before they stared back at a confused Caer and Lumys.

Finally, Abigor could not help himself but blurt out to his fellow primordials, "I know that you love your brother, but have you two gone mad?"

Caer and Lumys blinked, with Caer wondering, "Why?"

Unable to contain his amusement or fathom the thought of eating another one of Tsuzuki's gourmet meals, Abigor shook his head then smirked. "Spare yourselves and the rest of your siblings. Keep your brother away from the kitchen."

Curious and clueless, Lumys asked, "And again, we ask—why?"

Tatsumi explained, "If you still want to maintain a semblance of respect and fondness for human food, especially when it is offered to you, do not eat your brother's cooking. Do not fall for the puppy-dog charm as he beams with pride and offers you a taste of his cooking."

Caer shook his head, still not understanding.

Abigor let out a sigh, shaking off the vivid thoughts regarding Tsuzuki's cooking. "Just say no to his cooking and all will be well."

As Caer continued to give him a puzzled look, Tatsumi said, "Lord Caer, Lord Lumys…how can I delicately put it…? There are two options here. One, you save yourselves and hurt his feelings by not eating his food. Two, you make him extremely happy and your stomachs and palates will be in an extreme world of pain in the process. We suggest for all of you to take Option One."

After looking at Tatsumi for a long time and reading the other's thoughts, Caer then chuckled in amusement as he now understood. "Oh, so my brother cooked for you before… You and he were lovers before. Many tender and romantic moments together. That strong bond between the two of you became stronger still, but no more romps in the bedroom or wherever else you two please...although the thoughts and temptations linger for you. And my siblings and I thought that only Kurosaki Hisoka and Muraki romantically resided in his heart... How interesting…."

"The same is with Brother Verus. We have jumbled pieces of his memories as Tsuzuki Asato, and we wondered the significance of those pieces with Tatsumi Seiichiro in them. Now it truly makes sense."

Abigor tried his best not to react. He gazed at Konoe, confirming that the latter knew about Tsuzuki and Tatsumi's shared past.

Tatsumi blushed a bit. While Konoe coughed out his discomfort, Tatsumi explained, "I…tried to teach him many times, but it didn't work…."

"Oh, Mirmi will howl with delight about this little tidbit. Who would have guessed that his eternally-dirty mind was right," murmured Lumys with a smile he shared with Caer, the two recalling Mirmi's speculation and how Mirmi would take this fact, dissect it, and blurt out more vulgar hilarity that his mind could produce now that his suspicions were confirmed.

Caer pursed his lips, his mind vividly showing him what could be. "And I can picture Sister Naiaca and Brother Tellix fussing about, trying to find out more about the many loves of Brother Verus here in Meifu. They will be the first ones to choose Option Two. They could not bear the thought of hurting Brother Verus' feelings."

Abigor, reading Tatsumi's thoughts as well as the uneasiness that the other felt, squeezed Caer's hand as a signal and mentally told the other, "Give the poor man a break, my Love… Even I am getting flustered over this… And if you want your siblings to exist the following day, avoid Tsuzuki's cooking…"

Heeding the message behind Abigor's gesture, Caer did his best to contain his amusement by telling Tatsumi, "Fine, fine… I had enough merriment to last me until evening. I am sorry, Tatsumi…. Forgive me…. I mean no disrespect."

"None taken…" was all that an embarrassed Tatsumi could manage to say.

For Tatsumi's sake, Abigor changed the subject and asked, "Let us talk about our upcoming journey. What about your duties as Chief of the Shokan Division while you are away, Tatsumi-san?"

"Kacho…?" prompted Tatsumi.

Konoe replied, "Terazuma, Wakaba-chan, Oriya, and I will cover the Division. I don't expect the rest to be gone that long. If worse comes to worst and I need more help, I could always summon Tatsumi and Watari to return to Meifu. Our Division knows the importance of this campaign in Makai. We will ensure that you will still be in good hands on all fronts before they leave to answer my call. As to Kurosaki, he wishes to keep you company as long as you need him."

Caer placed his hand over his heart. "We appreciate your realm's support and company. I am sure that my brother's presence in this trip would make it worthwhile for everyone, and likewise."

Abigor added, doing his best to reassure Tatsumi and Konoe, "And we will return to Meifu with you once you are successful with the retrieval, Tatsumi-san. I wish to pay my respects, too. Please provide something that Mako-san used to own, or a photograph. It will help with our search."

Tatsumi nodded and bowed in thanks before Abigor and Caer.

Konoe dared ask Abigor, "Are matters that irreparable between you and Lord Ashtarote?"

Behind the calm demeanor, Abigor was unsettled inside although he truthfully stated, "I have been thinking a lot about it, Kacho. The Royal Council will meet once I get there. The nobles and I have much to discuss. I will be there, and so will Ashtarote. I will deal with him once I make a full assessment of the situation. From there, I would know how big, long, and bloody my campaign in Makai would be."

Konoe gave a nod, grateful for Abigor's honesty. He smiled, telling Abigor and Caer, "Lord Lumys, Tatsumi-san, and I came out wondering if you two would like to join all of us for tea while we wait for Tsuzuki and Hisoka's return. Tatsumi just finished making a fresh pot, along with other pastries to complement the tea."

"Tea will be very good," replied Caer to Konoe. He shifted his position and knelt beside Abigor.

Caer closed his eyes, resting his forehead once more against Abigor's forehead while he mentally said, "I trust you completely, Abigor. If you wish to talk to Konoe, go ahead. I will head inside with Lumys and Tatsumi-san. Do whatever you feel is right, especially if it will help clear your head for the tasks ahead."

Abigor focused on warm, loving thoughts and sent them through the link that he and Caer shared. "Thank you…for believing in me. After my talk with Kacho, may we take a walk? Lumys is more than welcome to come with us, if he so desires."

"Of course.…"

Abigor felt unsettled with Caer's carte blanche consent, even though Caer planted a reassuring kiss on his forehead and a lingering kiss on the lips for all to see.

Abigor stayed in his spot on the bench while Caer stood up and joined the others. Before anyone was about to turn his back from him and return inside the house, Abigor took a deep breath and gathered up whatever courage he could muster and asked,

"Kacho, a word with you, please?"

"Sure…." Konoe then looked at his companions, excusing himself so that the rest took a walk back inside the house for tea.

The two sat down on the bench.

"I…." Abigor closed his eyes, drawing as much courage as he could now that Konoe sat before him. He dared gaze into Konoe's eyes, his chest constricting due to pent-up feelings. "Things have been…well…complicated lately…and part of that has something to do with you and me, as well as this journey that Tatsumi-san and I are about to take…"

Konoe gave his undivided attention to Abigor. He then tensed up and his eyes widened as the conversation unfolded, starting with the first revelation that linked him and Abigor in an unexpected way.

Location: The Pits of Hell

For hours since he returned from Meifu, Muraki sat by the huge fireplace and tried to find peace and solace from watching the logs slowly but surely be consumed by the fire. The more that he tried to forget or drown out his emotions and thoughts, the more that he seethed, his mind constantly replaying the events he witnessed from the encounter between Hisoka and Tsuzuki.

Since the comforting ambiance around him was not helping as much as he would like to, Muraki reached inside his white robe pocket for a pack of cigarettes and his white-gold lighter. Seconds later, he lit up a cigarette and then took in a deep breath as he did his best to find pleasurable release from smoking.

Dymion, sitting nearby Muraki, now could not help but sandwich a finger between pages and close the book that he had been reading. He focused his attention on Muraki. "You wish to share something? You have been in a miserable mood since you arrived from Meifu."

"It's that kid," mumbled Muraki, taking another puff as he felt the hate that he had for Hisoka and what he witnessed hours ago boil and corrode him from the inside.

The handsome primordial archer let out a sigh, remaining nearly tightlipped as he said, "You fully knew that my brother and Abigor's son share a bond. I guess your reaction clearly establishes that being with Tsuzuki Asato, sharing the same bed with him, is not enough for you."

"Tsuzuki's memory hasn't returned, but the way that he was with that kid. It's unforgivable," said Muraki, doing his best to not let his hand tremble from the anger that consumed him.

"And tell me…what is so wrong with my brother being with someone else other than you?" asked Dymion.

Knowing that Dymion meant no disrespect with the question, which was posed before him to quench his curiosity rather than poke the fires of his temper, Muraki replied, "I should be the apple of his eyes. Just me…."

"That is your humanity talking, Muraki…that and your egotism," said Dymion in a calm and matter-of-factly fashion. "For a primordial, there is no such thing as infidelity. Regardless of whether Tsuzuki's memory returns or not, I suggest for you to make peace with your insecurities. When will you learn how to accept your victory and enjoy its spoils, instead of worrying of something so trivial?"

Muraki remained silent, watching the wispy white rings of cigarette smoke lazily float, slowly mingle with the air, and eventually disappear.

As Dymion gazed into the handsome doctor's mesmerizing eyes, he commented, "You are fortunate that Abigor remains to be a man of his word. Remember that my siblings and I insisted that he respect the covenant that we have with you, now that he is one of us. For that to be upheld, you must maintain your end of that covenant—that means that you will not inflict any harm on Abigor's son. Hurt him, and Abigor will unleash his wrath on you. There will be nothing that any of us primordials can do to protect you, no matter how much I would advocate for your position."

"Oh, I will do more than just hurt Kurosaki Hisoka," declared Muraki through gritted teeth before he took in another gratifying puff from his cigarette. After blowing out a fine stream of smoke in the air, he added, "Tsuzuki is mine, and mine alone, Dymion. I will never stop until the kid is gone…obliterated…both body and soul…."

End of Chapter Eight