WARNING! If you don't like yaoi (boy x boy) then please don't read this.

Kuroko no Basuke as well as the cover image used for this story both belong to their respective owners.

This is a roleplay story done by KurokoTetsuya101 and The Lucky Bell.


Kuroko fastened up his pace, with Imayoshi doing the same. The screams got louder and louder the closer they got. Finally the two saw old rotting metal doors before them. Imayoshi stepped forward, "This is it." And opened the doors to reveal a horrific sight. Kuroko's eyes widened in shock when he noticed a bloody Akashi hanging by the wall, his hands restrained by a chain and his topless body covered in bruises of all kinds.

The redhead was panting in pain while the three other people who were in the room, Hanamiya and two other men stopped to look at the newcomers. "What are you doing here Imayoshi? Didn't I tell you not to interrupt?"

"Kuroko-kun insisted." Imayoshi looked over at the bluenette.

Kuroko felt a little uncomfortable since Imayoshi said it was his idea. Would he get punished for wanting to see? Or would he be found out and thrown back into the cell with the others? "I-I was just curious.."

Hanamiya sighed, "Whatever." before walking over to Akashi. He put his hand on Akashi's chin, moving his face up so that he could look at him. "Ready to talk yet?" He asked but when he received no answer from the other, he used his taser to shock the other, causing him more pain.

Hanamiya watched Akashi scream in pain and then switched off his taser. "You know if you just tell me then all the pain will go away." Hanamiya tried but the other remained quiet. "Che... So stubborn."

Kuroko has never seen Akashi in pain or scream like this. It was a new sight that he felt like he shouldn't be seeing. But then again he was also glad he was watching. It was amazing to see how stubborn Akashi could be. He was enduring all this pain to keep the group safe... He was enduring all this pain because of Kuroko's foolishness.

"What will you do if he.. you know.. accidentally dies?" Kuroko asked Imayoshi quietly. "You won't be able to get information... So he shouldn't be too rough on him right?"

"Don't worry Kuroko-kun. You see, Mako-chan has done this many times before. He's an expert and knows when to stop. He won't kill him but... let's just say that he'll be in a state where he will be bordering death." Imayoshi and Kuroko watched as Hanamiya hit Akashi again, causing more pain.

"We'll see how long your determination will last." Hanamiya hissed, turning around and walking up to Kuroko and Imayoshi. "Not even a word. We'll continue tomorrow."

"That's too bad." Imayoshi said as he looked over a hanging Akashi who was covered in wounds.

Kuroko stared at Akashi's body, waiting for someone to help him but no one stepped up. He looked back at Imayoshi. "Isn't anyone going to help him? He'll bleed to death if left alone like this."

"Kuroko-kun has a point. What do you think Mako-chan?" He looked over at Hanamiya.

"He won't die from the wounds." Hanamiya went over to a table were... the torturing equipment was. Kuroko could tell by everything in this room that this was the torturing room or the interrogation room you could say.

"Hmmm~ Still you had some die in the past Mako-chan. Maybe we should treat him after all."

"I don't care. Do what you want, but I'll come back tomorrow for another 'session'." Hanamiya said as he and his men left the room, leaving Imayoshi and Kuroko alone with a chained up Akashi.

"We need him alive so how about you treat him Kuroko-kun? That could be your first task as a member?" Imayoshi walked over to the same table Hanamiya was at but instead of touching the equipment, he reached under the table and took out a small medical box. "We keep this in here just for cases like this." Imayoshi gave Kuroko the box.

Kuroko held the box carefully, nodding to Imayoshi. "Okay, thank you for trusting me with this job." He said softly, looking towards Akashi. He'd have to clean him up first to see his wounds... "Is there water in here?"

"Unfortunately no. You'll have to do without it." Imayoshi pat Kuroko's shoulder before walking over to the doors. "I'll come back in about an hour so make sure you're done by then." And he left.

As soon as they were alone, Kuroko quickly went to Akashi with the box at hand. "Akashi-kun? Can you hear me?" He asked worriedly. He's been quiet all this time, he didn't know if he's passed out or not.

Kuroko noticed Akashi's slightly opened eyes open a bit more, his head moving slightly. "K-Kuro..ko."

Kuroko felt dread fill him when Akashi spoke so softly, like he was in pain. Because he was in pain. All because of Kuroko. "Akashi-kun, I'm so sorry this is all my fault.." He opened the box to see what they had. He wasn't a doctor like Midorima but he had to do something! It was even worse because he couldn't even clean Akashi to see where his wounds were.

"No..." Akashi's voice was faint so Kuroko could barely hear him. "My... fault... I should have... done something." Kuroko could tell from Akashi's voice just how tired and exhausted the other was and it wasn't helping that Hanamiya decided to keep him chained up to the wall. This way he wouldn't even be able to lay down.

"You wouldn't have to do anything if I hadn't been stupid." Kuroko stressed as he pulled out some bandages. Then he read some of the bottles, seeing if there was ointment for the burns left behind by the tazors. "I know it must hurt to speak, but where does it hurt? Like the most... Where does it hurt most?" Akashi must've felt pain all over so asking where it hurt would be stupid.

Akashi's eyes were barely opened. He felt so tired but the enormous pain and Kuroko's voice kept him awake. "Chest..." He said, even though his whole body was hurting the same. He had to give Kuroko a place to start since the other knows nothing about treatment.

Chest.. He was shocked there the most wasn't he? He gently placed his hands on Akashi's chest and tried wiping some of the blood off. "I'm sorry if I hurt you further.. I'm not good at this."

Even though Kuroko was gentle, Akashi couldn't help but flinch and gasp in pain. Even small touches like this hurt him but he tried to endure.

Kuroko had to endure as well. He didn't like seeing Akashi in pain but if he didn't do this, he might end up in more pain. Once he got most of the blood off, he gently applied some ointment for the burn marks.

Akashi panted but endured while Kuroko applied the ointment. It burn and intensified his pain but he endured... "That man... is more... than... he seems..." Akashi managed to say in between his pants and luckily Kuroko heard it, even though it was like a whisper.

"Man? Which one?" Kuroko asked, looking up at Akashi. He wished he could get the other some water. That might help his throat and help clean his wounds.

"Glasses..." Glasses? Kuroko immediately knew he was referring to Imayoshi. "Playing... you... don't... deceived..." Akashi used the last bits of his strength as his eyes slowly started closing. Exhaustion catching up to him.

"W-Wait, Akashi-kun, don't sleep!" If Akashi fell asleep, who knows if he'd be able to open his eyes again? Kuroko placed his hands on Akashi's face in an attempt to keep him up, however he immediately let go when he remembered he had blood on his hands. He just stared as Akashi's eyes closed. At least he was still breathing...

Kuroko set to work trying to fix Akashi again. At least he won't be in so much pain. But what did he mean by playing? Was he trying to tell him to stay aware of Imayoshi? He already knew that! He looked up at Akashi sadly. This was his entire fault and Akashi was taking the beating for it. He needed to find the way out before Akashi, or one of the group members, end up killed.

Kuroko did the finishing touches and put bandages on Akashi's wounds. Almost covering up his whole body. With nothing more to do, Kuroko decided to stay by Akashi's side until Imayoshi comes for him. He watched Akashi's breathing even out but he still felt the need to get Akashi down to lay down. But even though he wanted to do it, he couldn't... he's done all he can for now.

And as soon as he knew it, the doors opened to reveal none other than Imayoshi who leaned on the doorway. "Done?"

Kuroko looked towards Imayoshi before back at Akashi. "We shouldn't keep him up like this. Can't we lay him down when he's resting?" He asked.

"No can do Kuroko-kun~ This is part of the torture. If we put him in a bed with blankets I doubt he would give us information. That's how it goes." Imayoshi mused as he noticed the bandaged Akashi. "You're too soft Kuroko-kun. A word of advice from me, don't be. It could kill you."

"I know.." Kuroko kept looking at Akashi. All this time he thought Akashi was rude and unfair towards him, but he was actually kind. Now his kindness might get him killed. "What will we do now?" He asked as he looked at Imayoshi.

"Well, believe it or not but its already night. I don't think it would be appropriate to put you back into the cage so would you like to share a room with me? Luckily my room has a double decker bed."

"..I guess.." Kuroko said and stood up. He looked at Akashi again before walking over to Imayoshi. He wasn't sure about sharing a room with the person Akashi told him to beware of, but he couldn't seem suspicious by denying the offer too much.

Kuroko and Imayoshi walked out of the room as Imayoshi closed it and they left, going to Imayoshi's room. "Do you feel sorry for your ex-group?"

"I mean.. I guess so. They're human too so it feels kind of wrong to lock them up and torture them." Kuroko admitted.

"And you would have faced the same fate if you didn't make the right choice. Everyone strives for one thing and that is survival. The weak are eaten while the strong survive. Isn't that the law of nature?" A sight of a hesitant Kuroko didn't escape his eyes, he sighed.

"How about this. You'll be in charge of taking care of them. Deliver food to the caged group and then tend to the redhead. Would that make you feel better?"

"I suppose so. Thank you, Imayoshi-san." Kuroko said, looking up at Imayoshi. "By the way... I don't mind sleeping on the floor. We don't need to share a bed."

"Haha! Don't worry Kuroko-kun, the bed is a double decker so you can take the top bed. Nobody sleeps there apart from me so there is no trouble." Imayoshi assured as they entered another section of the tunnels. They walked up to one of the rotting doors as Imayoshi opened it and let Kuroko walk in first.

Kuroko looked around the room and was glad to find that the bed was indeed a bunk bed. He sighed in relief and walked further into the room. "Hey Imayoshi-San? I just realized I still don't have my stuff. When am I able to get it back?"

Imayoshi walked over to a table and reached for something under, "Tada! Here is your bag Kuroko-kun. The men didn't touch anything so everything should be in place. Ah! That is apart from the weapons. All of the members aren't allowed to have a weapon inside the base. I hope you understand."

Kuroko looked at the bag and slowly took it. He wished he could keep his weapons so he could protect himself. But he also wanted to see Ogiwara now. And by Ogiwara, he meant the crossbow that had his name on it. "Okay, I understand."

"I'm glad." Imayoshi put his hand on Kuroko's head, ruffling his hair before walking over to his bed. "You don't mind taking the top bed right? I prefer the bottom."

Kuroko stood there for a moment, remembering how Aomine always ruffled his hair. "Uh.. yeah. Or I mean I don't mind of course."

Since Kuroko agreed, Imayoshi went on to lay down on his bed. "We have a long day ahead of us tomorrow. I'll take you back to the surface so we can search for some supplies. Just like good old days."

"Yeah." Kuroko climbed up to the top bunk and laid down. "I'll have to give the group in the cage their food first before we go."

"Oh yeah~ I forgot about the stock. Then I can take you there before we head out. The passages here are hard to memorise. It took me a while to get the hang of it."

"Okay. Thank you." Kuroko tried getting comfortable and sighed. "Well... good night I guess?"

"Night~" And so the room became quiet. Even though Kuroko could hear Imayoshi snore, he himself couldn't fall asleep. How could he when his group is imprisoned, possibly tortured by Hanamiya and his group? He hoped the group in the cage would be okay but he had doubts about Akashi. The poor redhead was all alone, probably unconscious in that cold room, tied up to the wall, not even able to lay down. Not to mention all of the wounds he had... and the new wounds he would receive tomorrow.

Kuroko hugged his bag that he brought with him to his bed. It did provide little comfort but he couldn't shake off the feeling of powerlessness that he had. Hopefully tomorrow he'll at least be able to find some medical equipment for Takao... Something to take the bullet out with... Kuroko hugged his bag tighter. Sleep won't come to him tonight.

It took hours for Imayoshi to wake up but even if he did, Kuroko had no idea if it was night or day. The cave really disoriented him and it made him feel trapped even more. It felt as if the walls would crumble on him, suffocating him to death.

The first thing the two did was go to the 'canteen' and eat themselves. Then as promised, Imayoshi led Kuroko to the cage where the rest of the group was. "I'll wait out here. Don't take too long."

"I won't." Kuroko said. He opened the door by himself even though he was holding a tray of food. He didn't say anything until the door was closed. He went to the cage, looking around for Takao immediately. He didn't look like he was doing too good, but he wasn't dead either. "How is he?"

"The wound is healing by itself but the bullet is still inside. With it Takao will have problems walking." Midorima informed Kuroko, sitting beside Takao who was still sleeping.

Aomine stood up when he noticed Kuroko come in, and walked over to the bars. "Did they do something to you Tetsu?"

"No but.." Kuroko shook when he remembered Akashi. He had to save him. Him and Takao and the group. "T-They... Akashi-kun.." He didn't want to say it. His voice died on him and he sat the tray down by the bars.

The group noticed Kuroko's voice crack, fearing the worst. "What happ-"

"Where's Aka-chin?" Murasakibara interrupted Aomine who was about to ask the same.

"He's in a room.. a torture room. I saw him. He was all bloody and beat up.. He nearly looked dead. I tried helping him but I'm no doctor. They're going to hurt him more today and try to get stuff out of him. But he's too stubborn.." Kuroko shook his head. They'd all blame him for Akashi getting hurt, and he knew he deserved it.

Murasakibara's expression changed to that of pure anger while everyone else was shocked and speechless. They were torturing Akashi? It didn't come as a surprise, they weren't expecting anything else but... to go to such an extend?

Murasakibara walked over to the bars in fury, grabbing them with his hands and trying to bend and break them. The group was further shocked by Murasakibara's strength and anger. Aomine and Kise ran up to the giant to try to stop him.

"Stop it! You'll only cause more trouble!" Kise pleaded.

"You'll get us all killed idiot!" The two tried to wrestle the giant who pushed them away and onto the floor. Midorima couldn't help but intervene. "Do you realise what you're doing? If you brake those bars then they could use Akashi against us! They could threaten to kill him or worse, torture him much more than they are now. Do you really want that?"

Murasakibara's eyes were fazed by fury but Midorima's words did get through him. He let go of the slightly bended bars and stepped away, calming down.

Kuroko had stepped back when Murasakibara tried bending the bars, but now he stepped back up to them. "Murasakibara-kun.. don't worry. I'll get him out of there then I'll get you guys too. Please trust me. I want to save him as much as you do."

After a minute of silence, Aomine spoke up "I trust you Tetsu." He stood up from the ground from where Murasakibara had pushed him and patted his pants. "And even though he doesn't show it, I'm sure big guy here does too." He pat Murasakibara's shoulder but had to stand on his toes to do so.

"Hmph. I guess it can't be helped. Although I'm still skeptical, I'll have to entrust Takao's life to you. Please find anything, anything to take the bullet out." Midorima pleaded. He couldn't bare to lose Takao... not like this.

"I'll try to find your bag. Or something to get the bullet." Kuroko promised before thinking of one place he saw that had tools. The torture room Akashi was in. That room had to have something to help Midorima. "I'll try to get it to you tonight or tomorrow morning."

"If you could, could you give it to me tonight? At this rate the wound will completely heal up with the bullet still inside. If it does then it will create a much bigger problem." He didn't want to say but it would also cause Takao much more pain.

"I'm sure Tetsu can do it." Aomine said with confidence as he walked up to the bars again to take the food and handed it over to everyone. "So what's the plan? I mean, how will we get out?"

"First I'm trying to find everyone's weapons and stuff." Kuroko said. "And I have to remember my way around here. It wouldn't do us good if we got lost. It would just get us captured in the end." Kuroko nervously looked towards the door. He should go quick before Imayoshi suspects him. "Look, I'll bring something tonight, I promise. Just wait for me."

"We'll wait." Aomine said as Kuroko stood up and went towards the door. However, before he could open them, Murasakibara called out to him. "Save Aka-chin." Murasakibara pleaded in worry. This was the first time Kuroko saw the giant being this worried and anxious.

Kuroko slowly nodded. "I'll save him. I promise." And he intended to keep that promise. He left the room, looking at Imayoshi. "They got their food."

"Then we can head out." Imayoshi pushed himself off the wall he was leading on and made his way with Kuroko towards the entrance. However, before they went out, the guard stopped them. "Your weapons are here." The man handed Imayoshi his weapons and gave Kuroko his.

Kuroko looked at his weapons with relief. No one seemed to have messed with them. Good. And now he finally had his weapons back... Now he felt a lot safer.

"Shall we go now?" Imayoshi asked and Kuroko nodded. The guard opened the doors and let them out. The nearer they got to the hole on the ground, the stronger the winds were. Kuroko never knew he would miss the fresh air this much. Being out in the open again was really refreshing. "Ah~ There's nothing like fresh air." Imayoshi stretched his hands out and took a deep breath.

Kuroko couldn't resist taking a deep breath. He missed the feeling of sun and the wind. And freedom now that they're always stuck down there. "So you come up here everyday?"

"Yeah. It gets suffocating down there so I use every chance I get to go outside. When there are no monsters around of course." Imayoshi looked around, deciding on a patch to take. "Let's go to the place we used to visit."

Kuroko followed Imayoshi, looking around as they walked. It really did feel nice to be out again... but he didn't feel comfortable with Imayoshi. "Um.. so what's our goal for today?"

"Gather supplies. What else would we be doing?" As they walked, Imayoshi took out his gun to admire. It was then that Kuroko noticed something. That gun was similar…

"I meant.. specific supplies.." Kuroko murmured, staring at the gun. Then it clicked. That's Akashi's gun. "Nice gun you got there."

"Right~? I picked it up from the pile of weapons we confiscated from the prisoners. I gotta say that I was shocked. How can someone fight with gloves and wooden crossbows? It honestly made me doubt those were their real weapons." It almost made him destroy the junk but perhaps they had a hidden purpose... although Imayoshi doubted that, he decided to keep the 'weapons' instead of breaking them. "This gun was the only thing that was of use and I gotta say its pretty handy. Light too."

Kuroko felt a bit insulted. That crossbow was his. Was Imayoshi really insulting his choice of weapon? He resisted telling Imayoshi that he shouldn't steal and just looked away. "Don't waste bullets."

"Naturally~" They both made their way to the shop they used to visit. Once it appeared within their sights the two went inside and started gathering anything they could. "Get food, water and some canned food too." This time the other specified.

"Alright." Kuroko said as he started gathering the supplies. However he was mostly focused on thinking of a plan on how to get everyone out of the cell. Everything was upon his shoulders... He didn't have anyone to help, not even Akashi.

Maybe it was because he was being tortured, but Kuroko was mostly concerned for Akashi. He felt the need to save him as soon as possible. He was the one who let him into the group and trusted him to lead them all to Tokyo. And he ruined that little bit of trust by meeting up with Imayoshi. Now he had to repay Akashi by saving him and his group.

"We got quite a bit today." Imayoshi mused as they made it out of the shop with four full bags. Now they really emptied the place, not even a bread crumb could be found. Everything gone. "Is it too heavy for you?"

"I'm fine." Kuroko had to build up muscle any way. Now was a good time to work on it. "Are we going straight back to the base?" He asked but before he could get an answer, he stopped dead in his tracks. Up ahead was one of those daytime creatures. Was it the type to get provoked when one was near it? Or maybe it was friendly? They couldn't take any chances.

However he found it odd when he heard it.. speaking? So animal monsters talk too? Kuroko didn't know if he was crazy or not, but he was certain the creature was saying things like "Where are you" and "I'll find you".

Kuroko was frozen in place and so was Imayoshi. The other slowly but carefully took out the gun from his backpack and raised it to aim at the beast. When he did, Kuroko put his hand on the gun, silently telling him not to shoot.

Imayoshi hesitated but didn't do anything and stood in place, his hand on the trigger. Although he soon started regretting it when the monster approached them, slowly a step at a time until it was just inches away. Kuroko and Imayoshi stood in place as the monster looked at them with its blood red eyes. The two were too afraid to do anything as the creature slowly leaned closer, its snout touching the tip of the gun.

The creature took its time examining and sniffing the weapon before it raised its head to look up at the two again. "Close... Near..." Kuroko heard it say before the creature suddenly walked past them, not interested in them at all.

Once the creature jumped up onto one of the roofs, Imayoshi and Kuroko fell down on the ground from the shock. They were so close to death yet for some strange reason... It didn't attack them.

"Why.." Kuroko couldn't think of how to finish his sentence. He was still in shock. However he was also curious. Why did it sniff Akashi's gun then say it was closer? It was all confusing.

Imayoshi stared into space, trying to understand what had happened. The monster just sniffed them and walked away? Without eating them? They still don't know anything about the new creatures that took over the world but... Imayoshi never thought something like this could happen. Could it be that the creatures are smarter than they seem?

Imayoshi stood up, still shaken by the encounter. "We're going back to base."

Kuroko didn't argue and stood up, looking around to see if there were any others. "Okay.. Yeah. This is enough anyway right?" He asked, referring to the four bags of supplies.

"It is." Imayoshi picked up his bag of supplies that he had dropped when he saw the monster and threw it over his back. "Let's go. There could be more coming out."

"Alright." Kuroko said, grabbing his bags. Even if it was underground and full of dangerous people, Kuroko would rather be in the base than outside at the moment. Plus he had to check on Akashi and get Midorima something to help Takao.

Kuroko picked up his bag as the two made their way back to the base. The encounter with the beast was still fresh in their minds but although Kuroko had the advantage to hear what it was saying, Imayoshi didn't need it because even though he didn't hear it, that thing's actions said it all. It said so much yet... it was so puzzling. This changes everything they knew about the creatures and it scared them. Its as if... they're evolving?

The two finally reached the tunnel and eventually the entrance. The guard took away their weapons as they made it inside. "We'll need to drop off the supplies to the kitchen and then you can tend to the redhead. Today you'll need to take extra care of him."

Kuroko felt worried at that statement but just nodded. "This time, is it possible to use water? Even just a little?" He asked softly with hope.

"I think you'll need it this time. Mako-chan has been busy with him since early morning. I never saw him being so desperate~" Imayoshi mused. "We can get the water from the kitchen."

"Alright. Thank you." Kuroko said, following Imayoshi to the kitchen. This time he paid extra attention to memorize the routes. "But... why is he so desperate?"

"Hmmmm~ I guess I should say 'irritated' rather than 'desperate'. You see, every time Mako-chan tortures someone, they immediately give him the information he wants, but this time that's not the case. Mako-chan's pride is on the line and by having the prisoner dead silent, it annoys him. That's how Mako-chan is."

"Oh.." So he wouldn't stop until Akashi gave the information... If this continues, Akashi might get himself killed. Should he try to convince Akashi to tell them what they wanted to know? He didn't want to see the other hurt anymore.

The two reached the kitchen and dropped off the supplies before Kuroko got some water (not much) and they headed down towards the torture room.

"I'll try to conserve this." Kuroko promised but not to save water. He really did need to conserve so he could both clean and hydrate Akashi. He doubted Akashi was being fed or watered much.

They were walking when finally Kuroko could hear the screams again, knowing they were coming closer to the torture room. They got closer and closer but unlike last time, Kuroko thought that the screams weren't as loud. Still, they were unbearable to hear and not only because of the sound but also because of how much Akashi suffered.

Imayoshi opened the doors to reveal a bloody Akashi in the same position as yesterday and Hanamiya who was holding a whip, and they could clearly see from Akashi's wounded body that it was used over and over again. Kuroko couldn't miss the pile of bloody bandages that were on the floor below Akashi. He didn't need to ask to know what happened... Hanamiya took it off and wounded the other even more. The wounds from yesterday re-opened and new ones were appearing by the minute. What's worse, the pain was ten times stronger as Hanamiya aimed for yesterday's wounds, causing so much more pain.

"Tell me what I need to know already!" Hanamiya hissed as he aimed the whip at Akashi who groaned out in pain. Kuroko could tell from the screams that Akashi was getting weak... so weak that he's even unable to scream out in pain.

Hanamiya stopped and approached Akashi, slapping his cheek lightly. "All this time you didn't even say one word. Say something, anything and I'll give you a break for a day." Hanamiya moved his hand to Akashi's chin, raising his head up to look at him. However, he wasn't pleased when he noticed Akashi's eyes closed, unresponsive and hanging in place like a doll.

Kuroko kept in a gasp, but he didn't try to wipe the worry off his face. Akashi couldn't survive much longer of this. Maybe he won't even survive until tomorrow... He was too scared to say anything, but he did take a few steps into the room to remind Hanimaya that they're there.

When Hanamiya heard steps behind him, he turned around. "Huh? Didn't I tell you not to interrupt!?" He hissed but Imayoshi stepped in. "My bad Mako-chan but I think its enough for today. We need to talk."

"Huh!? I'm not done yet! I'm far from done."

"No. You're done. We need to talk." Imayoshi insisted and by the way he looked, Hanamiya guessed it was something important. Although, he wouldn't leave without finding out at least one thing.

"Oi pipsqueak! What's his name?" Hanamiya approached Kuroko, pointing to Akashi.

Kuroko watched Hanimaya approach, feeling scared but he was used to hiding his fear. "I don't think it would do your pride any good if I told you... I'm sorry." He murmured quietly, looking down.

Hanamiya was taken aback by Kuroko's answer but it just made him more frustrated. "So you won't tell me? Heh~ If we're talking about pride, then I can go to the group in the cage and ask them. I'm sure they'll happily tell me what I need to know~" Hanamiya's words send a shiver down Kuroko's spine. Would the others be tortured in the same way?

Hanamiya heard the chains slightly move behind him, making him turn around to see Akashi trying to move his hands. "Hoo~ Conscious again?" He walked towards Akashi but when he did, he heard small whisper.

He leaned in to hear, "They... don't... know..." Akashi's words were faint and could be barely heard but Hanamiya understood what he said. "Haha! They don't? Then how about you tell me?" He made his hand into a fist and punched Akashi in the stomach, earning a groan from the other.

Akashi panted and Kuroko noticed that he started shaking as well. Hanamiya walked over to Kuroko and Imayoshi. "We'll use his friends to make him talk." Hanamiya smirked, "That is if you're still unwilling to tell me his name pipsqueak."

It was a tough choice. He didn't want to tell Hanimaya anything, but he also didn't want the group to get hurt. If Akashi got hurt by this small piece of information, he wouldn't forgive himself... But even if he didn't know Akashi well, he knew one thing. Akashi would do anything to keep his group safe.

"His name.. it's Akashi Seijuuro.." Kuroko finally said. "That's his name."

"Akashi?" Hanamiya and Imayoshi's expressions changed to that of surprise. Did he say something he shouldn't have? Why were the two so surprised? Kuroko got more nervous when Hanamiya started giggling, putting his hand on his face. "Haha! Akashi? Are you serious?"

He turned around to face Akashi again, "Suddenly I have so many more questions to ask~ Maybe I should use your friends after all~" Hanamiya licked his lips before turning to Kuroko again. "Make sure he doesn't die pipsqueak."

"Alright.." Kuroko responded with, avoiding all their eyes again. He just held the water tightly as he waited for them all to leave. Once the doors closed and he was alone with Akashi, he immediately went to the table. He had to find something for Midorima to help Takao get that bullet out. If he didn't find one now and end up taking all his time to patch up Akashi, he wouldn't be able to help Takao. Once he grabbed a few tools he hoped would be good enough, he went to Akashi with the water.

"Akashi-kun?" He said worriedly, setting the water down so he could gently lift up Akashi's face. Once again it was useless to ask if he was okay. "Do you think you have energy to drink some water?"

Despite his shaking body, Akashi managed a small nod. Kuroko raised the glass up to his lips as he drank the water slowly. It was pitiful to watch because even drinking the water was painful and took a lot of energy to do. When Akashi drank the entire cup, Kuroko moved it away. "Leave... me... escape... everyone." Akashi whispered, using all of his strength to do so.

"I can't leave you." Kuroko frowned. How could Akashi suggest that? "I'm not leaving you. I'm going to get everyone out, I promise." He insisted, picking up the water and medic case again. "I'm going to wash you okay? So this might hurt more than yesterday."

Akashi didn't respond but let Kuroko do what he had to do. Not only would it hurt more because of the water but also because the wounds from yesterday reopened. Compared to yesterday, Akashi had more wounds on his body.

"I'm sorry.. This is all my fault." Kuroko apologized as he cleaned Akashi's body, using the water wisely. "I promise I'll get you and the group out of here soon. But I'm not leaving you behind. I got everyone into this mess, that means it's my responsibility to get everyone out."

Akashi listened as Kuroko cleaned his body, flinching from time to time due to the pain. However, when Kuroko looked up to clean Akashi's face, he didn't miss a small smile. "Naive..."

Kuroko pouted and if Akashi wasn't so injured, he would have pinched his cheeks. Instead he just softly poked his forehead. "I may be stupid and naive, but I'm not giving up my kindness because of this apocalypse. It's the only trait of me that I had before. I'm not giving that up."

"Dangerous... t-trait..." Akashi paused to gather his strength, "But... rare…"

"Well when I die, I don't want to die knowing I was being rude or cruel. I want to die as myself." Kuroko said. He then paused and looked at Akashi's tired eyes. "I know you try to deny it, but I know you're kind too. You're just better at concealing it than me."

Akashi closed his eyes before opening them again, moving over to look at Kuroko's teal blue ones. "I'm... not…"

"You are. You wouldn't have let me into the group if you weren't. You wouldn't have kept me when I got injured. You wouldn't have trusted me to lead you to Tokyo. You wouldn't have done all those things if you weren't kind." Kuroko argued quietly, focusing on putting bandages on the wounds now. Then he suddenly remembered something. "The injured should be quiet and obey."

Akashi's smile widened, even if for a bit. He had his own words thrown back at him, quite ironic. Akashi thought about abandoning Kuroko many times ever since he joined the group. He thought and thought but even though his instincts were telling him to do so, he could never do it. He would always think how incompetent he is for not doing so but... he couldn't do it. He didn't have the heart to. Leaving someone alone to fend for themselves in a world like this... it would surely guarantee death.

Akashi isn't sure if he should regret his decision. After all, Kuroko is the reason they are in the situation they're in but then again, its also Akashi's fault. He should have taken action when Kuroko told him that night. If he would have acted sooner and tried to escape with the group instead of training Kuroko in the morning, he could have prevented this situation. At that time he thought the enemies were small in number but no, there were only more and more coming and that was his miscalculation.

In the end, Akashi was at fault and now he had to pay the price. He doesn't mind paying the price as long as the group is safe... although they are not safe right now.

He didn't actually expect the other to go quiet, but Kuroko wasn't complaining. He just finished with fixing Akashi's wounds, making sure none were left untreated. He looked up at the other, feeling dread when he saw how tired and weak he was. "Listen, tonight I'm going to try and bring the group food. When I bring them their food, I'm going to give Midorima some supplies to help Takao get the bullet out his leg. I've also memorized how to get from here and the cage to outside. Not many people walk around but there are guards at the front. As for getting you and the others out... I think the keys might be in Imayoshi-san's room."

Akashi looked up, woken by the information but still fazed. Kuroko already memorized the route and had a plan to get out? The timing is crucial and Akashi was glad that the other didn't take so long to do the task he had given him. Although... There was nothing Akashi could do to help. He could barely talk and barely move. Surely he would be slowing down the group, decreasing their chances to escape. Although knowing Kuroko as much as he does, he knew the other would be too stubborn to leave him behind.

Akashi gathered his strength to speak up, "When?" When does Kuroko plan to take action?

"Hopefully tomorrow if I find the keys tonight." Kuroko decided. "But tonight... should I bring you something? You haven't been fed have you? Even if you are, it's not enough."

Akashi shook his head. He didn't eat and drink ever since the day they were taken hostage. When two guards came in with a piece of bread, Hanamiya told them off, deciding to starve him as a way to make him speak. That's why Akashi eagerly drank the water Kuroko gave him, even though he barely had the strength to do so.

"No... need... don't... risk..." If Kuroko went out of his way, then Imayoshi and the others would suspect him. Even though Akashi knew they already do. However, he still decided to play into their game for that little hope they have.

"Please.. You'll die if you go without water and food for too long. Especially under such treatment." Kuroko insisted, gently taking Akashi's face into his hands like yesterday, making Akashi look at him again. "I know they don't trust me. I obviously don't trust them either. But they wouldn't keep me in that cage if they needed me for something... so even if I'm caught, I doubt they'd throw me in the cage."

Akashi hesitated. No... they didn't need Kuroko... They were playing with him and should he do something to displease them, they would surely put him back into the cage. Akashi knew that they treat Kuroko the way they do is for their amusement. Playing with him until... No, Akashi couldn't have that. He couldn't risk Kuroko's life if it meant saving his own.

"P-Please... don't... risk.. life..." Akashi never thought he would plea to someone, but the current situation made him powerless... There's nothing he could do but plea and beg.

Kuroko frowned but didn't argue any further. He didn't want Akashi to drain all his energy arguing. "Okay.. I won't.. But if I find the keys tonight, I promise I'll get you all free tomorrow."

Akashi nodded, looking into Kuroko's eyes while he looked into Akashi's tired ones. "...Carefull..."

"Okay, I'll be careful." Kuroko promised. "You be careful too." He murmured. He had to lean up, but he did manage to softly kiss Akashi's forehead. His mother regularly told him that a kiss to the forehead meant you wanted to bless that person. To save himself from embarrassment, Kuroko hugged Akashi as carefully as he could so the other couldn't see his pink cheeks.

When he opened his eyes, about to pull away, he stopped and stared. On the back of Akashi's neck was something black... a tattoo? Kuroko was interested at first. He never got a tattoo before. He didn't think Akashi was the type to get them! But as he looked closer, he felt some form of discomfort. Why did the tattoo make him feel... on edge? It was a tattoo that was all black and it looked like it was a shield with an A through it... A for Akashi maybe?

However when he realized where he's seen this before, Kuroko quickly pulled away from Akashi. He took a few steps back, nearly tripping over his own feet from moving too fast. It wasn't... it couldn't be. His mind were playing tricks on him.

When Kuroko moved away, Akashi flinched from the pain and sudden movements. The room became quiet as Kuroko stared at the other; still unsure of what he saw. However, when he heard and noticed the chains slightly moving with Akashi raising his head up slowly so that he could look at Kuroko, it was then that Kuroko noticed something strange.

One of Akashi's eyes had a very strong shade of gold in it. Kuroko noticed it before but unlike the previous times, this time the golden color was clearly visible. Another thing that unsettled him was that Akashi's soft smile twisted and turned into a devious smirk.

Kuroko didn't know what to think of it. Akashi has the same tattoo as those monsters and now he's smirking while holding a new eye color... Maybe he really was going insane with this apocalypse. "A-Akashi-kun?" He finally found his voice but it was quiet, like he was afraid or hesitant. He slowly moved closer to Akashi again.

Akashi's eyes glared holes into Kuroko as he approached, his smirk still on his face. As he was getting closer, Kuroko couldn't help but gasp when Akashi's golden eye was now completely golden, not a tint of red in it like before.

"Why.." Kuroko couldn't finish his sentence because he couldn't think of what to ask first. Why was his eye gold? Why did he have a tattoo the same as the monsters? It was even in the same place on the back of the neck!

Akashi's eyes moved from Kuroko to look around the room. It was strange because Kuroko had the impression as if he's seeing his surroundings for the first time, even though he was in this room ever since they were captured. When Akashi's eyes examined the room, they returned onto the bluenette with the same intense gaze... although this one was much more... frightening.

"Your eye.." Kuroko mumbled as he took a few more steps closer. "It's.. is it okay?"

Akashi watched as Kuroko shortened the distance between them, until he finally stood inches apart but still maintaining a bit of distance. The chain's restraining the redhead rattled as he attempted to move his arms but much to his displeasure, he couldn't. "Free me and I'll tell you everything you want to know." Kuroko froze yet again when Akashi spoke clearly and normally... As if he wasn't injured at all.

"I can't free you. I don't have the keys and there's nothing in here that could break it. You know that." Kuroko still felt disturbed by the eye, but now he was disturbed at how healthy Akashi sounded. He was borderline weak just moments ago.. where did this strength come from?

Akashi lowered his head so that Kuroko couldn't see his face. However, even though Kuroko couldn't see Akashi's face, he could still see a smirk forming slowly in the darkness. "I'm here."

"I know you're there..?" Kuroko officially felt scared. It didn't seem like Akashi was talking to him, but who else could he be talking to? "Akashi-kun, really, are you okay?" He finally had the courage to reach out and softly touch his hair to get his attention.

However, just when Kuroko had touched Akashi's head, the doors suddenly opened, startling him. Kuroko moved the hand away out of reflex as he turned around to face Imayoshi. "Done yet?" Imayoshi asked but Kuroko turned around to look at again Akashi only to notice that... his eyes were closed... Is he unconscious?

"Yeah.. I'm done.." Kuroko said, moving away from Akashi. He walked to Imayoshi's side, glancing at Akashi one last time. "Imayoshi-san, since I'm taking care of the group now, am I bringing them supper too?"

"Of course. Just like you did in the morning." Imayoshi said as he looked over at Akashi, noticing the new bandages that were decorating his body.

"When will I give it to them? Now or later?" Kuroko asked, looking between Akashi and Imayoshi. He was worried that Akashi would wake up and act scary again, but he didn't.

"Let's do it now so that we can rest. Today was a really busy day." Imayoshi yawned as he approached the doors and waited for Kuroko to walk out.

Kuroko walked out with Imayoshi, letting the other close the door. "Okay. I'll do that now then. Are you coming this time? You look really tired."

"To tell you the truth I am." He yawned again. "Can I leave it to you then?"

"Yes. I'll be there soon." Kuroko smiled at Imayoshi. "Don't wait for me though. You look like you really need to rest."

"I won't, I won't." Imayoshi took his leave, waving at the bluenette as he slowly took his leave.

Kuroko nodded and headed for the kitchen by himself. It was like a test to see if he did memorize his way. Luckily he did and got food for the group. Then he headed to the cell where the group was being held. There was one guy there guarding the outside, but he let him go in. He made sure no one else was around before going inside. "I'm back." He said to the group, immediately checking for their conditions.

The group was immediately alerted when the doors opened, "Tetsu! Are you okay?" Aomine stood up and walked over to the bars.

"Yeah, I'm fine." Kuroko said even though he was still a little spooked after the encounter with Akashi. "Um.. I have.. what you needed.. I don't know if it's good enough though or the right tools."

"Let me have a look." Midorima stood up and went over to them. When Kuroko gave him the items, he examined them. "Yes. I should be able to get it out with this." Midorima held up one item that Kuroko brought. Even though it wasn't exactly meant for that, it'll have to do.

"Okay. I'm glad I could help." Kuroko said with a sigh of relief. "But.. Midorima-kun, I have a question. Do you.. know Akashi-kun well?"

Midorima was confused by the sudden question, "I wouldn't say I know everything but I do know some things. Why? Did something happen to Akashi?"

Kuroko didn't want to answer because he didn't want to seem insane to the group. "Would you say he would care for the group before himself?" He asked, avoiding Midorima's question. Akashi was a good guy, he just knew it. He wanted to believe that by asking what the others thought.

Again, they were all surprised by another sudden question, making them worry. "Why are you asking? What happened?" Everyone's attention was on the bluenette, tension rising up.

"He was.. He was acting weird. He was so weak that he could barely drink the water I got him." Kuroko had decided not to bring the tattoo up. After all if might just be that, a tattoo. "He suddenly acted like he had strength once his eye changed... It was sudden. His eye just changed from red to gold.."

Everyone was confused, "Maybe the stress is just getting to you Tetsu? There's no way eyes can cha-" Aomine was interrupted when suddenly Murasakibara found his way to the bars again. Kuroko was startled but not because he was angry this time but because Murasakibara was... he didn't know how to explain it. Worried? Scared? Concerned?

The giant tightly held onto the bars as he looked down at Kuroko, "Just one eye right? Completely? Not a tint of red in it?"

"No.. No red at all. And yes, just one eye. His left eye." Kuroko explained. "Do you know what's wrong? I'm worried for him. What do I do?"

Murasakibara was quiet, squeezing the bars tightly in his hands. "Did... Did you see anything else? A tattoo-"

"What's going on? Changed eye color? Someone care to fill me in?" Aomine was not good at using his head. He was always the action type of a person so riddles like this do him no good.

"Yeah, what's happening?" Kise added. If Murasakibara hadn't reacted like he had, he would have thought Kuroko was making this up.

Kuroko didn't say anything and just slowly nodded in response to Murasakibara. "So you know about it? Do you also know about... you know..?" He didn't want to bring up the monsters in case it really was his imagination.

"It's-" Murasakibara was interrupted yet again when suddenly everything around them started shaking. An earthquake? Everyone stood up on their feet, apart from Takao who was just woken up from sleep. They were all worried and tense. It wasn't a comfortable feeling when you're in a cage during an earthquake.

"We have to get out of here!" Aomine stressed as he tried bending the bars but it was no good. At this rate they will be buried and killed!


Author notes

The Lucky Bell: this stupid thing glitched out on me twice when I was writing my note so this is a short note today. Please enjoy the chapter.

KurokoTetsuya101: I'm so sorry everyone :( I'm so busy that I don't even have the time to stop to breathe... I have only about three weeks of school left and thus the torturous assignments and presentations I have to do :( I did promise in my previous note that I would write a longer review so here goes...

Alright so I know some of you have been onto us XD It was pretty obvious from the beginning and this chapter proves all of your suspicions. The identity of Subject 4 is... I don't want to say but u already know XD Or do you... hmmmm... Also, this story has NO MuroAka XD It was just a tease because you all know just how much I love to tease at the end of each chapter~ What else... Ah! Compared to the Nerd story we haven't been getting so many reviews so I'm a bit down about tat as well :( I really enjoy reading your guys' reviews so when there aren't that many to read it sucks :( But a HUGE THANK YOU to those of you who do take the time to review :) It means the world :D

Thank you so much for reading (I probably forgot half of the things I wanted to say :( my brains is still full of equations...) If u have any questions then plz don't hesitate to ask! Thank u and see u next week! :D p.s. plz drop some reviews~ XD

This story is updated weekly.