A/N: Thank you for your patience! Here is another chapter for you. Thanks for the reviews. I really appreciate them.
Conrart walked along the sidewalk with Akane in tow. The man's constant rambling was grating on his nerves but he did his best to maintain composure. He didn't want to draw too much attention to themselves as Akane was in handcuffs. The man however, didn't seem to mind it as he just continued to talk on and on.
"You know, we could go to my place. I could finally show you my room." Akane said after a long tirade of useless subjects.
"I have to decline." Conrart did not look back as him at all as they walked.
"Oh but we would have so much fun in my bedroom. I am so excited to see you tied down to my bed." Akane smirked at the man's back. He saw Conrart as a challenge he wanted to beat.
Conrart's left eye twitched slightly at the comment. "Your thoughts are far from pure."
"Oh are they? I don't think so. I don't think it's that bad. Your brother was really good too. So tight." Akane baited him, knowing the reaction he'd get.
Conrart stopped dead in his tracks. He turned to look at the man, his eyes dark, serious, and angry. "What you did to Wolfram is unforgivable. You don't deserve the treatment you are given." He balled his fist up in a desperate attempt to hold in his anger.
"Oh? That is true. I don't need to be thrown inside of a dungeon. I should be placed in Yuuri's bed in between him and Wolfram so I can have the two of them at my disposal. That will be great, won't it?" Akane spoke in response. He acted as if everything he'd done was normal and to be expected. Conrart however didn't bother to give an answer. Instead he turned back around on his heel and gripped Akane's arm harder. He walked, his pace faster, dragging the ebony haired man with him. "So where are we going? You're boring when you don't talk." Akane frowned.
"I already told you." Conrart stared ahead as he walked.
"They won't believe you, you know. They may think that you hurt me, instead. The police are so particular." Akane smirked behind him.
"Believe it or not, I do have good reason for them to keep you. Stalking is a good enough reason and I've got enough eveidence of that." Conrart responded. He wasn't sure how he was going to convince the police of what the man did as he wasn't present for most of it. However, he did attempt to molest him, perhaps…that would be enough? He wasn't sure. Earth was so different for Shin Makoku.
"Oh I don't know. It's very hard to prove something like that with no actual evidence."
"It's enough to hold you for questioning."
"Oh and I don't think they can even do that! You don't have enough evidence for that to happen." Akane smirked with triumph.
Conrart slowed his walking. The man was right. The police may ask questions, but they'd also detain Conart as well to talk to him. At this point he really couldn't risk being caught up all day. They needed to get back to Shin Makoku before too much time passed. He sighed, clenching his teeth. "Fine. Where do you live?" He asked finally. He wasn't happy about it, but at least they could escape without him.
"Oh? It's just down the street a little bit. Around a ten minute walk. So ...you finally decided you wanted to see my bedroom?" Akane wiggled his eyebrows up and down as he stated the question.
"Sure. If that is what you wish to believe." Conrart said in quick response.
"Oh you will love what my room looks like. I can't wait to mesmerize you on the bed."
"I highly doubt you will be able to do so. I am in a rush to return back to his Majesty's side."
"Oh are you now? Well, I will have to make sure it's quick then. Though I wanted to play with you for a while too." Akane pouted, his bottom lip stuck out under his top.
Conrart sighed with difficult restraint. "I will again have to decline."
"Is that because you like me sooo much that you can't just wait to use me? You know I do moan very loudly."
Conrart closed his eyes in frustration. I'll just be glad to be rid of this monterous personality. "I really don't care for that sort of thing."
"Oh really? I would think someone would love to have your fine ass. Don't you agree?"
"I wouldn't use such a crude phrase."
"Oh I bet you do with your significant other. And you like it." Akane smirked and winked at him.
Conrart shook his head. "Your thinking is wrong. How much further?" He really couldn't stand much more of the man. He was already frustrated that he wasn't going to be properly punished for what he'd done.
"Just around the corner." Akane pulled on his arms and lead Conrart towards the apartment building in which he lived. "Here it is, isn't it cute? My apartment is on the top floor. There shouldn't really be anyone to bother us." He rubbed his shoulder against Conrart's. Standing side by side, he was only a few inches shorter than the other.
"How convenient for you." Conrart shook his head then sighed. "Fine then. Show the way."
Akane showed him the way throught the building and to the top floor where he then lead to his door. "My key is in my back pocket. Would you like to get it?" Akane smirked up at Conrart and pushed his backside against his leg.
"I would prefer not to do so." Conrat moved away and dug out the handcuff key from his pants pocket. He bent down a little to unlock the cuffs from Akane's wrists.
Akane pouted a little. "Spoil sport." He then smiled as he pulled the key from his pocket. He turn and threw his arms around Conrart's neck, which wasn't hard to do since he was nearly as tall as him. "You're so handsome."
Conrart took a step backward, both hands reached up to pull Akane's away. "Please go inside." He breathed frustrated.
Akane simply smiled again and turned around the unlock the door. However, the moment he swung open he grabbed Conrart's arm and tugged him inside, closing the door behind them with his foot. He wrapped his arms around his waist and pulled him close. "So sexy…" He looked at him with a seductive grin.
Conrart grunted and pulled on Akane's arms once again. He'd been pulled off balance and was unable to stop him from grabbing him again. "I would appreciate it if you would release me." He swallowed his anger as much as he could.
"Never!" Akane grinned and pulled him further into the apartment. "This room just got better looking."
Conrart stopped their movement and pried Akane's arms away, shoving him a bit. "That is quite enough. I really haven't the time or desire." He turned and moved for the door.
"Oh? Well then we are going back to Yuuri already? Mm, you make me so sad."
"You." Conrart pointed at him. "Are going to stay here. If you do so, no further action will be taken." That is until evidence can be proven by Earth's laws.
"I am not. I am going to go with you!" Akane smiled and grabbed his hand. "I have to see Yuuri again."
Conrart stopped and pushed Akane back towards what he assumed was his room. "No." He spoke forcibly. "You. Are. Staying. Here."
"Well then you are staying here with me." Akane spun around again and pulled him by the waist until their bodies met.
Conrart let out a frustrated sigh. "NO." He pried him away again. "That is enough, Akane." He glared, this time not caring if he kept his temper down or not.
"Oh, no it's not." Akane stepped closer once again and kissed his cheek before the man shoved him away. "Let's go visit Yuuri."
Conrart growled in return. "I said enough!" He yelled, his temper lost. He turned Akane around and pushed him towards his room. "Go sleep."
"I can't when I know that Yuuri is in this world!" Akane smiled over his shoulder. "I am going with you."
Conrart plucked the handcuffs from his pocket and slapped one back onto Akane's wrist. "You. Are staying here."
"Oh? So you want to play rough do you?" Akane smiled down as his wrist. "Where are you going to tie me up?"
Conrart glared and grabbed his arm. He hauled him down the hall and into the small bedroom. He snapped the second cuff around the post. He knew he'd be able to get away but it would at least give Conrart a good headstart.
"Oh so you do want to play on the bed?" Akane smiled at him, amused. "Where are you going to start first?"
Conrart made sure that both cuffs were secure. "I'll be leaving now with you happily tethered in your house." He turned on his heel and headed out the bedroom door.
Akane frowned. "Conrart? Conrart!" He sighed then smiled. OH well, he'll come back eventually."
Conrart let out a sigh or relief glad to be rid of Akane. "Finally." He said as he made his way back down to the ground level and out onto the street. He started to walk away then hesitated and turned to look up at the building. He couldn't just let Akane sit there with the freedom he certainly did not deserve. But how could Conrart get him into Police custody without being detained himself. After all, he was a foreigner, and a man slightly larger than Akane. The police may not believe him when he told the story of Wolfram's rape to them. They'd want to talk with Wolfram and hours, possibly a day later, they'd finally be able to leave.
Conrart shook his head and sighed before looking towards a group of men who were walking along the sidewalk. He bit the inside of his lip in thought then hurried over and asked for a cellular phone. One man bowed his head and graciously offered it out to him. Conrart bowed his head in return then looked sheepishly at the man. He didn't know how to call the correct authorities which made the man laugh. A few minutes later, Conrart found himself connected with the police station. He paced the sidewalk back and forth as he described what had happened over the phone. Refusing to give his name as he and the 'victim' wanted to be anonymous. That little fact seemed to bother the officer on the other end but eventually he agreed to take the suspect into custody for questioning. Conrart thanked him graciously and returned the phone to the man who'd loaned it to him. The small group stared at Conrart, having not meant to over hear the conversation. The looked at each other and hurried away after taking a few glances at the apartment building.
Conrart sighed and ran a hand through his hair. He was going to wait for the police to show up before he left. Just to be sure. He sat on a bench and picked up an abandoned newspaper to read as he waited. Luckily for him, the timing of the police was quickly managed. Soon a squad car arrived and two officers exited the vehicle. Both hurried inside the building. Conrart stood up, trusting in the police and started down the street again. He hurried back to the Shibuya house where the rest would be waiting for him. The journey went much quicker as he wasn't tugging along a pest for a man.
Conrart worked his way back along the sidewalk, a few women giggling as he passed. He couldn't help but smile. It often happened when he went to Earth. The women and sometimes even the men would stare. Though it was nothing compared to when they saw Gunter or Wolfram. It amazed him the difference it made between them. The people on Earth weren't used to seeing people as 'beautiful' as them as Jennifer had once put it. Conrart smiled a little to himself and shook his head, one hand in his pocket as he walked.
Several minutes passed and Conrart finally found himself outside the Shibuya house. Out of polite nature he knocked on the door and waited.
"Conrart! There you are! I thought you had disappeared." Jennifer smiled as she opened the door.
Yuuri walked up behind her and waved him inside. "We've decided to leave."
Conrart entered the house as he was beckoned in and looked at Yuuri, then to Wolfram who had followed him from the kitchen. "Your Majesty, is that wise?" He asked. His eyes fell on the sleeping Murata on the couch. His body was half slumped over and his mouth hung a little open.
Wolfram watched Conrart, his eyes a little wide as he seemed to be searching for something.
"Ah, he's not here, Wolfram. I made sure he stayed at home."
"Huh? Oh! I wasn't worried." Wolfram turned from him in a huff, his arms folded over his shoulders. Though the blonde couldn't help but feel relieved.
Conrart put a hand on his shoulder. "It'll be alright, I promise."
"I think it is. We have a wedding to prepare for anyway." Yuuri smiled when he saw Murata. He walked over and gently shook his shoulder. "Murata it is time. I'm ready to go."
"Hmm...?" Murata blinked his eyes open the lifted one hand to rub the sleep from them. He slid his glasses back onto his face and looked up at Yuuri. "So soon? Are you well enough? Has Shouri bullied you into letting him come?"
"Ah no. Shouri hasn't said anything about it. Did he want to come as well?" Yuuri walked to the bottom of the stairs and yelled up them. "Shouri you said you wanted to come as well?"
Shouri appeared a few seconds later at the top. "Yes I did Yuu-chan. Will you let me come with?"
"I can handle it." Yuuri responded as Shouri started down the stairs. "But Shouri, why do you want to come?"
"I want to help prepare for your wedding as your best man." Shouri said but flicked is gaze and Murata and back. "More or less."
"Well I guess you can come. Murata, you ready?"
"Ah-" Murata sighed and stood up. He shook his head and rolled his eyes. "Yes, it'll be fine I suppose. I'll just have to lend my energy." *sighs standing up and shakes his head* Yes, it'll be fine then I suppose. I'll just have to lend my power.
"Shall we go then? Shouri, I'm allowing you to come but you have to promise me to not use your powers while you are there alright?" Yuuri said seriously.
"Yuu-chan, I promise you." Shouri said and couldn't help a small smile.
"Good now let's go." Yuuri started up the stairs and towards the bathroom. Everyone followed after him and prepared themselves in the small tub. It was hard to hold that many people in it at once but they managed to fit. "Ready?" Yuuri smiled as he put a hand on Murata's shoulder.
Murata nodded closing his eyes a moment. "Yes, I believe we are." He flicked his eyes at each of the others then away again. "Anytime you are ready."
"Yes, I am ready." Yuuri closed his eyes as he started the pool of water into swirls the encased all of them. Seconds later they all arrived in the pool in the middle of Blood Pledge Castle. Yuuri had learned how to get through the castle's natural defeses. Part of the Blood Pledge was that elements would be altered. No one except for Yuuri had been able to travel to and from the castle. Yuuri breathed rather hard and leaned on the edge of the pool, holding himself up.
"Yuu-chan, are you okay? Yuu-chan?" Shouri ran over to Yuuri and looked at him.
"Yes, Shouri." Yuuri tried to stand up but fell onto his knees. "I'm fine." He sucked in a few deep breaths.
"I told you you weren't ready! Ah, why do you never listen to me?" Wolfram asked as he knelt in the water to help him stand.
Murata bent down, one hand on Yuuri's shoulder. "He's just over-used his power today. Especially since the Maoh came out earlier this morning."
Conrart nodded in agreement. "You've really outdone yourself today, highness. I suggest heading straight to your bedroom for rest."
"I am fine...Wolfram. Really I am fine." Yuuri sat there in the water panting.*
"Yuu-chan. Why did you do that? You should get to bed." Shouri said, his hands on his hips.
"I said 'I'm fine.' Wolfram, you should see if your mother has found out yet."
Wolfram swallowed and looked to Conrart. "Ah...h-how do you think...she'll react?"
"Very...excitedly." Conrart sighed in response.
"Lord Weller, why don't you and Wolfram go on and take care of things?" Murata suggested as he stepped from the pool.
"W-what? And leave Yuuri?" Wolfram asked him, his eyes a little wide.
"Murata, I'm not leaving Wolfram's side." Yuuri stood up and took a hold of Wolfram's hand. He leaned against him. "Ah…"
"I can help with preperations too you know." Shouri said feeling a bit ignored.
"Ah...careful Yuuri...you're exhausted." Wolfram looked at him and put his arm around his waist to help support him.
"I'll be able to handle it." Conrart responded.
Murata nodded and adjusted his glasses. "Very well. If you'll excuse me, I need to return to Shinou for a few hours."
"I am fine Wolfram." Yuuri smiled at him then carefully moved his arm so he could sit on the edge of the pool.
"May I go with you, Murata? I want to talk to Shinou about a few things about my power." Shouri stepped over towards him. The two conversations happening was getting confusing for him.
"You are such a liar! You can barely stand up!" Wolfram stood in front of Yuuri with both hands on his hips. "I shall carry you!" He pointed at him.
"Ah, Wolfram that's not really the best idea." Conrart stepped forward.
Murata took a moment to respond to Shouri, having been a little distracted by the others. "Eh, sure I suppose? But be careful the maidens there might make you do all sorts of chores." That's the second time he's used my name. Murata thought. It was strange. Why was Shouri suddenly acting more familiar with him?
"No, no." Yuuri put his hands up in front of his face and waved them back and forth. "Wolfram I can walk. Really I'm fine."
"It's fine. I don't mind doing a few chores." Shouri said watching Wolfram and Yuuri a moment. If that means that I can be around you a lot of the time I am fine with a few chores. "Lead the way, friend-of-my-little brother."
Wolfram face reddened and he ingnored Yuuri's protests as he bent over to try and pick him up. "You carried me aroung so I should do the-.
Conrart took Wolfram's shoulders to pull him back gently. "I'll carry him for you." He bent down and lifted Yuuri into his arms easily before either could protest.
"Ah-ah.." Yuuri felt himself lifted up. He didn't have the energy to really protest much as his eyes started to slide closed. "Wolfram…" He breathed before he drifted off rather quickly. He was more exhausted than he'd thought.
"Hey-" Wolfram nodded. "Let's get Yuuri into his bed." Both he and Conrart started off towards the main doors to the castle where a few maids waited to serve them.
Once inside and after dismissing the maids Wolfram and Conrart made their way with Yuuri towards the king's bedroom. Wolfram walked quietly right next to Conrart without really realizing it. He subconsciously was still seeking the comfort of his older brother's protection.
"I think a few hours of good sleep will have his Majesty back to normal.
"I hope so." Wolfram nodded and the two continued towards the bedroom in silence another minute or so. "Uhm…" Wolfram looked down at the ground as they walked. "Listen, Conrart. Thank you for all you're doing. T-to deal with this."
"Don't worry Wolfram. I would do anything for King Yuui. I would do anything for you." Conrart responded gently.
Wolfram looked up at him a moment then back down as they entered the bedroom. "Just. I don't know. I really needed you and well, you were there. I just."
Conrart couldn't help but chuckle. "This is out of character for you, Wolfram."
"I'm s-so sorry…Wolfram…" Yuuri's voice cut them off. He didn't wake but he seemed to be dreaming.
Wolfram bit his lip and touched his face. "Still worrying, even in his sleep."
Conrart gently laid Yuuri down on the bed and stepped back. Yuuri mumbled a few more words before settling back into a deep sleep. Wolfram sat on the edge and held on to Yuuri's hand to let him know that he was there.
"It's okay, Yuuri." He said softly pushing his hair from his face.
"I believe all will be well now. Why don't you rest as well, Wolfram? You still look rather tired."
"I'm fine. I don't really want to sleep right now." Wolfram responded.
Conrart smiled and nodded his squeezed his younger brother's shoulder quickly then left. Yuuri's hand tightened around Wolfram's as he slept on.
"My turn to take care of you." Wolfram smiled a little although he was still full of concern for him.
Murata watched with a small smile as the three entered the castle then turned to Shouri. It confused him a little that he would rather spend his time doing chores at the temple than with Yuuri. "Alright then, that should be fine." He turned and started towards the stables.
"Ah, alright." Shouri smiled at Murata as he followed after him. "What way are we going?"
"The only way there is." Murata responded. He stepped inside the stable to gather his horse. Two of the guards noticed him coming and started saddling the animal. "I'm afraid there is only one horse available. Are you alright to share the ride?"
"Ah, yes that is fine. I haven't rode a horse in years but it'll be fine." Shouri appeared a bit nervous as he looked at Murata.
"It'll be alright. I'm not in a huge rush so we can just walk the horse." He waited while the horse was prepared and then brought out.
"Ah, no, no we can ride it. It's fine." Shouri smiled at him. "It will be faster that way anyway, correct?"
Murata blinked at the smile. It wasn't normal for Shouri to smile at him like that. He then nodded and pushed the glasses back up the bridge of his nose. "Yes, it would be quicker. I'm sure Shinou is wondering about a few things anyway."
"Yes, I agree." Shouri's expression changed to his normal, serious one. "What do you and Shinou talk about? Has anything major happened lately?"
"Nothing that should really concern you. Ah, the horse is ready. Can you mount on your own?" Murata turned from him and accepted the help of the guard to mount his horse. He then slid a little forward so that there would be room for Shouri.
Shouri helped himself up and sat there proudly. He looked at Murata who was placed in front of him and put his hands around his waist. It's so small. Just like a girl's would be.
Murata felt the arms around his waist and looked over his shoulder at him. "Hang on." He clucked his tongue and snapped the reigns. The horse started forward as Murata directed it.
"Okay." Shouri held on a little tighter so that he could feel Murata's waist under his hands. It's just so small…I wonder if this is what holding a girl would feel like.
"Not too tight though, I need to breath you know." Murata laughed nervously. *laughs a little nervously*
"Ah, sorry friend-of-my-little brother." Shouri smiled a little embarrassed though Murata couldn't see. I didn't mean for him to notice, but his hips are so small, too. Shouri found it difficult not to think of him.
"No, you're fine." Murata's laugh and voice were back to his normal attitude. "It's about a 20 minute ride there. Just let me know if you need a break."
"Ah, alright then." Shouri smiled again. He couldn't seem to help himself. "So, what do you do around here on a daily basis?"
"A lot of things actually. Most of which are simple planning and gathering information. Well, that is when I'm not doing the various chores for the maidens in Shinou's Temple. Apparently they really like having a man around."
"Do they really use you that much? I remember helping with a few things when I came over. But I didn't ever do a lot." Shouri sighed. "I will help distract them so that you can help Yuu-chan." Shouri paused as a thought struck him. "Friend-of-my-little brother, have you found yourself a girl you like amongs these maidens?"
Murata laughed at the question. "They are 'maidens'. I couldn't date one even if I wanted to. Why? Are you crushing on one of them?"
Shouri's eyes widened. "N-no not at all. I am not even interested in a girl." Shouri's eyes widened even more at his accidental confession.
"Then why did you insist on coming here to see someone?" Murata asked suspiciously. Wait, what is he saying exactly?
"I ah…I still am." Shouri smiled at him. "So what do you and this…Shinou talk about?"
"Ah, I see then." Murata shrugged it off as they rode. Shouri always had been a little strange. "Everything I guess you could say. He has a way of knowing things. I suppose it's because he's kind of in a ghost form."
"What do you mean he's in a ghost form? And are you always around him?" Shouri's voice started to take on a bit of a defensive tone.
"He's a spirit, I suppose you could say. And yes, actually. I've known him for hundreds of years."
"Really? You haven't even lived that long. I don't even get how that is possible friend-of-my-little brother."
"You know I'm the reincarnated Great Sage, right?"
"Yes, but I really don't understand how it works or well, worked. So you are this Shinou person's friend from hundreds of years ago?" Shouri sighed a little let down by the fact. Now how am I supposed to compete with that?
"Yes. My soul has lived through many lives." Murata shrugged. "But it's fine. He's finally safe and back to normal after all the trouble with the four boxes."
"Oh..well that's good. I guess. So, what do you two talk about now? Do you ever talk about the affairs of life or of Yuu-chan?"
"We talk about everything. There really isn't a limit. We're together quite often, it would be awkward if we didn't talk."
"I guess you are right." Shouri sighed again. "Well, what do you do around here when you are not with Shinou or with the madiens?"
"I'm hardly ever not with them. I rarely visit the castle at all."
"Are you planing on helping with the wedding?" Shouri raised an eyebrow during his question.
"When I am available. I'm sure Shinou would like to venture out as well to assist in the festivities."
"Is he allowed to leave like that?"
"He does every now and then, though he rides on my shoulder when he does. He doesn't have enough power to stay at full size when outside of the temple."
"Oh really? That's a bit odd. Does he always go with you places?"
"I'm the only one he ever leaves with."
"Really? Has he never left with Yuuri?" Shouri wanted to keep him talking. It was nice having a conversation with Murata.
"Not that I've ever been told. He doesn't leave often. Not anymore." Murata nodded his head up the trail. "It's up that hill if you remember?"
"Ah yes I do. I am pleased to have come back again. I am excited to see all of the interesting things that will go on."
"Chances are you'll only see chaos and the walls of the temple as you are put to work by the maidens."
"You really think so?" Shouri sighed and peered over Murata's shoulder at his face. "I hope I can get some alone time with the person I came to see."
"I suppose that'll be hard at the temple. Why did you want to come along anyway?"
"Because I wanted to see what the other life of my brother was." Shouri smirked. "I wanted to know what all he did here."
"The other life? Are you in reference to Shinou, the Great One?"
"I mean on this other side. As in the life of you and yuuri on this side. Since I don't know a lot of what the two of you do on this side."
"Ah..." Murata nodded slowly. "I understand what you mean. I'm sure it's similar to what Bob does back on Earth. Without all the technology of course."
"I bet it it tons diffrent than from what Bob and I do. All Bob does is answer phone calls and then pratice his skills. Yuu-chan seems to do a whole lot more. And so do you!"
"Well of course I do. There is much to be done, much to learn, much to plan. And also hundreds of years of lives to wonder about." Murata tilted his head up towards the sky for a moment. "I often wonder what some of those lives were like, but I would never trade any of them for the one I have now. The things I do and the people I know are worth so much to me."
Shouri smiled as he looked at him and just tugged him closer to his chest. "I agree. So you don't know any of your past lives? Can you not see any of those memories?"
"Huh?" Murata felt himself pulled closer and Shouri's chest pressed against his back. His cheeks pinked a little and he looked down slightly to avoid Shouri seeing it. "Ah, no. If you think about it, I would go insane. Not knowing what memories were really mine as Ken Murata. Though I do have some."
"I guess so. I wouldn't want you to go insane either. I like you as you are, Murata. I wouldn't have you any other way." Shouri sighed. "What kind of preperations do we have to do for the wedding?"
Like me as I am? Since when has he "liked" me in any way? "Ah-" Murata pulled himself from his distractions. "Well, there is the matter of the ceremony which will probably be conducted here. Then, as with tradition, the caravan back to Blood Pledge Castle and the festival afterwards. While Shibuya and Wolfram both don't really want one so large, I'm afraid it will happen anyway."
"As in the entire kingdom coming to it?" Shouri looked at Murata's face. "That seems like a lot of work. Well put me to any work you may need. Call me your personal slave."
Murata laughed a little at the odd suggestion. "I've no need for a personal slave but I'm sure I can find something for you to do."
Shouri laughed a little as well. "I would be willing to do anything. As long as I am near you. Ah- just in case something happens with Yuuri."
He keeps saying odd things. Why is it bothering me? "Wouldn't that make more sense to be near Shibuya then? I don't know about things unless someone tells me."
"Yuu-chan will have enough people bothering him. He didn't need me following him around. He still needs me around but I believe a day or two without me will be fine. And when the time comes, someone will tell us that Yuu-chan needs me."
"If anything happens we will be notified immediately. You don't have anything to worry about." Murata responded. Though I wonder what really did happen at the castle. I've never seen Wolfram so afraid before.
"That's good. If anything would happen to Yuu-chan I don't know what I would do. Has anything happened here lately? Wolfram seemed bit out of it at the house."
Murata stayed silent for a few moments. "Somethings are meant to stay private, brother-of-my-friend."
"What do you mean by that, friend-of-my-little-brother? Has something happend to Wolfram?"
Murata remained silent as they rode once again. He sought for the words within his mind. "I don't know for sure. I suggest leaving it alone. Don't ask him about it."
"Ah? Was it really that bad? I will have to ask Yuu-chan about it the moment I see him then. He is really unreasonable sometimes just like you."
"Don't Shouri. I really don't think asking them about it is the best idea." Murata's voice took on a serious tone.
Shouri sighed and rubbed his head. "I guess you are wise sometimes friend-of-my- little brother. If you say not to ask then I won't. Possibly..."
Murata sighed and stopped the horse. He turned a little in the saddle so that he could make eye contact with the man behind him. "Listen. Part of dealing with affairs in this kingdom is to know when to leave things, dealing with the royal family, alone."
"I am apart of the royal family aren't I? I don't want to watch anything harm Yuu-chan and if they do I want to help make him feel better. Is that understandable, Murata? As his friend don't you wish to help?"
Murata sighed still making eye contact. "As his friend, I know enough about the situation to know he won't want to talk about it."
"And as his brother I know that Yuu-chan has to talk it out or he will only get himself even more depressed. You won't want that and no one in your demon kingdom will want that either."
"Fine then." Murata closed his eyes and turned back around. He nudged the horse forward with his toe. The temple wasn't far off as they could see it ahead of them. "If you must, talk to Shibuya. You absolutely must leave Wolfram alone."
"So it has something to do with Wolfram as well? Hmm..." Shouri shook his head. "Is it really something that serious?"
"Yes. I'm afraid so. I really shouldn't speak more of it since I don't know the details myself."
"Oh? Well then I won't bother you any bit more of it." A few minutes passed but Shouri couldn't let it alone. "Murata, is it really that terrible? Has my Yuu-chan experienced something that bad?"
"I thought you were going to leave it alone."
"I can't seem to not think about it. I seem to think of the worse in my head. Expecially since Akane just disappeared once they brought him back to earth. What do you think about it?"
"Well, Akane caused quite a stir here."
"What do you mean? I know that kid was quite clingy towards Yuuri when he was younger. But what did he do now? Not to mention how he even got here."
Murata pulled the horse up to the main entrance of the temple and dismounted looking up at Shouri. "My best guess is, and keep in mind I really shouldn't be telling you this, he forced himself upon Wolfram. The Maoh was enraged this morning. That's part of why Shibuya is so weak and tired. I don't know all the details and I'm not sure what happened for certain. I can only guess."
"What do you mean he forced himself onto Wolfram?" Shouri took a moment to think about what Murata had said. His eyes widened and his fists clenched at his sides. "I am going to kill that brat! I want to reurn just so that I can kill him with my own hands!" Shouri said angrily then shook his head to calm himself down. He didn't know he'd get so upset like that. "Let's not think about that, for Yuu-chan's sake. I will ask him about it later." Shouri dismounted the horse as well and looked around.
"Just leave Wolfram alone, alright? And like I said, it's only a guess."
"That is why I am not leaving right this minute to go and ask him. If you knew for sure then I would be leaving this moment to go and ask Yuu-chan and Wolfram. But for now I will spend my time with you."
Murata scoffed. "Nice to know I'm the 'distraction'. At any rate. You really shouldn't talk to Wolfram about it. He's really affected."
"I would talk to Yuu-chan before going and talking about it with Wolfram so don't worry about it okay?" Shouri reached out and ruffled Murata's hair.
Murata ducked his head out from under the hand and moved away. "What was that for?" He shook his head and fixed his hair. "I have to get inside before the maidens find me here." Murata turned on his heel and headed towards the Shrine room.
"Ah, let's go then." Shouri followed after him, one hand reached up to fix his glasses in the process. "So where is Shinou?" He asked looking around the room. The large doors closed behind him.
Shinou walked out from behind the boxes. "Ah, so you've returned so quickly, Daikenja." Shinou smiled, one hand on his hip, his half cape draped over it. "And Lord Shouri is with you? What an excellent surprise."
Murata nodded, one hand steadying his glasses. "Of course. I can't leave you alone for a minute before you start trouble."
"Indeed, I am." Shouri smiled and followed Murata's motion by pushing up his glasses as well. "You must be the one who likes to cause so much trouble. Shinou, we finally meet."
Shinou smiled. "Indeed, future Maohof Earth."
Murata sighed. "Are you two going to be buddy buddy? You'll only cause me more trouble."
"You're so overworked aren't you?" Shinou chuckled a little as he walked closer. While in the shrine he was at his full stature and stood nearly eye to eye with Shouri.
"What do you mean by 'buddy buddy'? I don't have time for someone who only cause's trouble. Don't you agree Murata?"
Murata sighed and put a hand to his forehead. Now Shouri was taunting Shinou. It could only get worse from there.
"Oh? Well then. You realize who you are addressing? Even so." Shinou put his arm around Murata's shoulders. "Did everything go well? Is my heir alright?"
"Yuu-chan is perfectly fine. He can handle himself better than you can expect even if something bad has happened to him and to Wolfram. And if he can't handle it he has me to help him." Shouri folded his arms. Why does he have his arm around Murata like that? He even looks so relaxed! Gah…Am I really getting jealous because of a ghost? Shouri looked away for a moment to gather himself.
Shinou smirked a little. "I'm sure he can. I am only expressing my concern." He leaned on Murata. "So, how was the journey?"
Murata rolled his eyes at their exchange of words. "It was uneventful as always. Shibuya has gotten a lot better at controlling his powers for it."
"Yes he has even though he over used his power." Shouri frowned. Why is he leaning on him so much? I don't like the way he is standing next to him. It makes me irritated. "You should try to convince Yuu-chan that he needs to know when to use his power. He fell asleep almost imediently when he returned."
"Me? I can't tell him how to control his own abilities. Each Mazoku is different." Shinou replied then noticed Shouri's expression. "Is...something bothering you, Lord Shouri?"
Murata looked up at Shinou. "You really..." He shook his head then looked at Shouri after Shinou's question.
Shouri looked at Murata before looking back at Shinou. "You can at least guide him in his powers can't you? He's still so reckless."
"I've guided him to the best of my abilities."
"Shibuya is at his own pace now. He's doing quite well."
"You could have guided him even better. I don't appreciate that you haven't even told him when he should stop. When he should be able to sense he is over using his power."
"You say that after insisting on coming along even though I told you he was already worn out." Murata folded his arms and stood in front of Shinou, almost like he was protecting him. He gave Shouri a very serious look, one of disapproval. "There is no point in putting blame on people. Shibuya knows when he is over-using his ability but there is just no talking to him."
"That's our Maoh." Shinou nodded.
Shouri sighed and looked awake. "I needed to come." He shook his head and decided to try changing the subject. "But anyway, Shinou, how can you live without a body?"
Shinou archeed a brow then walked away a little in thought. One finget tapped his chin. "I've been in this temple for so long, I've forgotten so."
"We're not entirely certain, but we believe part of it is his pact with the earth, which created Blood Pledge Castle." Murata stood there, arms still folded, his weight placed mostly on one foot so that his hips were of center and one stuck out slightly.
Shouri took the chance to move a bit closer to Murata. "That's a bit odd. I still don't understand it but I guess it is hard to understand."
Shinou turned back around, his hand still sitting on his hip. "I personally believe it is similar to how the Daikenja's spirit has transgressed through time, as well as the same soul in Yuuri as was Suzanna Juliana von Wincott."
He really does even stand like a girl. That hip…it looks so smooth to touch. "So the entire thing is just a mystery to everyone. Even you?" Shouri asked pointedly at Shinou.
"Not all things are known." Murata adjusted his glasses as if it was obvious.
"Even though the Great Wise Man likes to claim he knows everything." Shinou smirked teasingly.
Murata shook his head and fixed his glasses again. "So childish sometimes."
"Well friend-of-my-little brother, you are quite smart. But I don't think anyone can know everything. He even puts up his glasses all cute like.
"Ah, so you've finally noticed?" Murata smiled a little and folded his arms over his chest again.
"That doesn't stop people from trying." Shinou shrugged and walked back over. He put a hand on Murata's shoulder and leaned down to meet his face." So, are they really getting married?" He asked although he already knew the answer. "Even after such events?"
"Shinou, you know not to talk about it."
"To talk about what?" Shouri looked from Murata to Shinou. "What really happened? It's more, isn't it?" This Shinou guy should really stop touching Murata. "Tell me, Shinou. You know something, don't you?"
"Ah, not more than the Great Wise Man." Shinou explained.
"You seem to know more than the friend of my little brother does." Shouri fixed his glasses with one finger. "If you don't want to tell me that's fine. Yuu-chan will tell me when he wishes for me to know."
"Of course. Though, you both talk as if I'm not here."
Shinou laughed a little patting his shoulder. "It's not different than when you speak to others about myself."
Murata looked at him and nodded. "We actually have a few things to do in private, brother-of-my-friend." Murata directed his gaze at Shouri. "If you would excuse us for a few minutes? I'm sure the maidens can find something for you to do."
"Ah...M-murata...I can help you in anything you need to do. I am going to be king of earth. I would love to know as much information as possible." Shouri took a step closer not wanting to be dismissed.
"Being Maou of Earth doesn't entitle you to our..."private" conversations." Shinou smirked.
Murata looked at Shouri, surprised again at the use of his name. "Is something wrong, brother-of-my-friend?"
"Gah. Nothing is wrong." Why does that make me so nervous? To leave him with Shinou? I want to talk alone with Murata." "Nothing, Ken."
Murata blinked in complete surprise. "'Ken'?"
"My, my you've completely dropped all honorifics haven't you?" Shinou crossed one arm over his chest, the other draped over Murata's shoulders.
Shouri glared over at Shinou as he walked over to Murata and pulled him away. He put a hand underneath Murata's chin and forced his face upwards pressing their lips together. He then released and turned his back to quickly fix his glasses.
Shinou's expression changed a little. "Hmm."
"Wh-" Murata stood there in shock. At a complete loss for words as his face turned bright red. "What was that?!"
Murata, you are mine. So any conversations you may have in private may and will now have me in them." Shouri looked at Shinou. "No matter how much background you have. Yuu-chan's best friend is mine." Shouri turned Murata around and put his arms around him glaring at Shinou.
"I- wha?" Murata couldn't form a complete sentence in his head let alone from his mouth.
"Is that really so?" Shinou walked closer. "Have you even asked him about it? How rude to just claim someone." His smirk would have been humerous if he didn't feel threatened.
Shouri pulled Murata even closer to himself. "Murata is mine. He doesn't have a say on it. He is mine."
"Huh- W-wha-wait a minute here." Murata managed to get himself out of Shouri's grasp and moved away from both of them. He held his hands to the sides of his head. "S-so sudden Shouri. What were you thinking doing something like that?" He felt a little dizzy and had to steady himself against one of the boxes.
"Couldn't you tell that you had become mine?" Shouri looked at him and smiled a little. "You are so cute when you can't think." He then glared at Shinou. "It seems that we will have alone time now. Eh?"
Murata's mouth moved to speak but nothing came out. He pulled off his glasses and coverd his face with one hand, half hiding his eyes.
"Ha. Not so long as you are in my temple, let alone this room." Shinou folded his arms watching him.
"Oh? Well then." Shouri moved over quickly and took Murata's arm to lift him over his shoulder. "Then we'll go somewhere else."
"Huh?! Wha-hey! S-Sh-Shouri!" Murata yelled in embarrassment.
Shinou laughed. "It seems you didn't see that one coming, Daikenja!"
"We're leaving." Shouri said again and carried him from the room.
Shinou watched his expression changing again. "So…that's how it is."
Akane, Jennifer, Shouri and Yuuri written by Vavila.
Wolfram, Conrart, Murata, and Shinou written by me.
Novelization and editing done by me.