The sounds were clear when Roxas next came too. The air stung his lungs and his gut became a lurching mess of sharp twists he couldn't control. He tried to move, wrinkling his nose at the sweat sinking through himself, his clothes and the sheets; his mouth felt stale, his heart erratic, and his head ached unstably with the memories of a disturbing dream plaguing him.

He heard a door open and close softly, as if the newcomer was desperately trying to be silent.

"He still sleeps?"

Roxas's ears twitched at Titan's voice, but his eyes were too heavy to open.

"Yes. It's been three days, dad. I'm really worried," Axel whispered beside Roxas.

"The Neko Council has decided Darren is not to blame for the contamination of the sedative," Titan said.

"They're letting him go?!"

"Calm yourself, Axel," Merlin whispered. "This is not something to pinpoint on one person without gaining repercussions for yourself. The Neko Council feels it did what was needed to subdue the beast. They did not expect such a passive-aggressive reaction from Roxas's own body. As for the winged beast, the trial will proceed when Roxas wakes. Cloud will hear of nothing else."

"What could have caused the beast to enter such a rage?" Titan asked.

"Maybe it just went nuts," Reno grunted, followed by a swift smack from his father and a yelp.

"Do not act so dense, Reno," Titan scolded. "This beast has proven its worth and want to protect Night Crawler. It is a special beast, and it being chained within the blaze was no accident. But even so, why should it feel the need to attack when it was freed? Although both Roxas and the beast were afraid I cannot see why it should attack such a random group. The answer is clear; the beast was looking to target someone. It looked to protect its master in what it saw to be a fearful time, and it is clear that whoever started the blaze had some part to play on our current situation. But who? Who was the beast looking to target?"

"Roxas has many enemies," Xemnas said, his voice thin and sour. "Any one of them could have had access to the drug with the castle so unguarded. The Neko Council is using this to their advantage and are refusing anymore visits after royalty has left, add to this the fact that they are demanding all guests leave the kingdom by the end of the moon's turn and this castle will effectively return to lockdown. Cloud has agreed to this motion."

"Can you blame him?" Reno muttered. "It's been less than a week and the brat is on his deathbed-"

"Reno!" Titan snarled. "Mind your— "

"'M not dying," Roxas whispered. The sound was tiny in the large room and he cuddled his pillow tightly, squinting through the light.

The room was simple and clean—the walls were white, the floorboards were bare and the furniture was essential. Merlin, Xemnas, Titan, Reno and Axel occupied the space, and Roxas didn't recognise the area at all. His mind blurred with the ache of trying to concentrate and in an instant Axel was brushing Roxas's matted hair back until it stuck up.

"Kitten, are you okay?"

"Feel sick," Roxas muttered, using all of his strength to link Axel's fingers with his own.

"Reno, go find assistance," Titan ordered.

"What? Why me?"

"Because you are being a nuisance and I wish to make you useful."

Reno cursed under his breath and left with a wince when his father clouted him for his language. Axel sighed with relief, kissing Roxas's forehead.

"Goddess, I was so scared. You've been asleep for days."

"D-days?" Roxas cleared his throat and coughed. "How long?"

"This is your third night since the shot," Titan said. "We have been very worried for you."

"You had a fever, Kitten. I left for a drink the other night and you started screaming. It was terrifying."

"'M sorry," Roxas whispered, huddling beneath the soaked sheets. "Where's Roric?"

"Chained in the yard."

The blond nodded, his gut churning. "Our kittens— "

"Your kittens are well," Xemnas said, folding his arms. "Although you had a fever it was not so high as to be deemed life threatening. However, you will be lacking nutrients. We should get vitamins and food inside of you as soon as possible."

Roxas shook his head. "I feel sick. Can't eat."

"You must have something," Merlin said. He knelt beside Axel, pressing his thin fingers to Roxas's sweaty brow.

Blue eyes closed and Axel shook his lover anxiously. Roxas groaned shakily with his white ears pricked up, peeking his eyes open.

"Axel, 'm tired."

"I would ask you to stay awake," Merlin said, standing up and securing his fingers over Roxas's pulse. He felt the sluggish rhythm with a thin frown. "How are you feeling? It may help us to identify the poison."

Roxas squeezed Axel's hand weakly, closing his eyes and shivering. "Feel sick. Tired too."

"Be specific, Roxas," Merlin said clearly. "Your pulse is frail and you are perspiring to such a degree that you have soaked your sheets for a third time. Can you move?"

"'M tired. Please, jus' let me sleep. I'll be okay."

Reno returned, pushing by Xemnas with a grumble. "Found that old lady for you."

"I'll show you old in a minute, young man," Raina said, puffing herself up in the doorway. She picked up the hem of her frilly dress and waddled in, looking Roxas over tenderly. "Darling, how are you feeling?"

Roxas smiled to feel her plump fingers sweeping his hair back. "'M tired, Raina."

"You always could sleep the day away. My, but you gave us such a scare, darling. We were ever so worried for you. I've sent Sora to fetch you something to eat."

"'M not hungry."

"That's not a good enough excuse," she said sternly, pulling up a chair near his bedside. "While you're awake we're going to get a warm meal inside you and some water. The sooner you're done the sooner you can sleep, dear."

"But, Raina— "

"No buts. As for guests, I think family only for the time being. Would you gentlemen mind stepping outside?"

Titan bowed his head, dragging Reno down respectfully before he left with Merlin and Xemnas behind him. Axel stood sorrowfully, but before he was at full height Raina clicked her tongue and pushed him down.

"Where do you think you're going, dear?"

"You said everybody out. I thought— "

"Stop being silly. Family always has a right to stay. Roxas, darling, can you sit up?"

"I don't want to."

"Here, Kitten." Axel hooked his arms under Roxas, propping him up by the cushions. The blond groaned and dipped down with a grimace, feeling Axel squeeze his clammy hand. "There. You okay?"

"Did I really sweat this much?"

"It's not just sweat, Kitten."

"It's not? O-oh…" A blush came to Roxas's cheeks and he gulped.

"It's nothing to be embarrassed about, darling," Raina comforted. "You've been very sick. Do you feel well enough to get washed and changed? We cannot leave you in soaked sheets."

"I'm too tired, Raina."

"We can't leave you like this, sweetheart."

"I don't mind," he said softly, closing his eyes.

"It's not good for you, Kitten. Here…"

Axel swept his hands behind Roxas's back and under his legs, cuddling the wet frame to his chest. Roxas grunted at the movement, closing his eyes with a moan when his belly vaulted.

"Shhh, Kitten. It's okay, I've got you. I'll clean him up, Raina. Can you sort the bed?"

"Of course, dear. Don't place him in a bath, mind, just a wash. And don't let him fall asleep. He must have something to eat before we let him doze."

Axel nodded, wincing when Roxas leaned heavily on his burned rib. In three quick strides he was within the bathroom, kicking the door shut behind him. He ran the water in the sink until it was lukewarm, dropping a washcloth in it and sitting Roxas on the side of the bath, holding him steady.

For a moment there was silence. Axel stared at Roxas as if hypnotised, rubbing soothing circles into the blond's burned wrist and feeling an enormous ache for the tender smile he was give. Roxas swayed left, his head and shoulder dipping, but with tremendous reflexes and keen eyes Axel steadied him. The wince that left the Neko's lips had his heart leaping, as if a shattered shard had begun to cut the lining of the loving muscle with mere sound, and he placed a delicate kiss to the side of Roxas's head in need to ease his hurt lover.

"Careful, Kitten… You really scared me, you know?"

"'M sorry. I don't even remember…"

"It's not your fault." He turned the water off and lifted Roxas's chin, helping the hazy sapphires to look at him. "Can you get your shirt off?"

"I can't move. I just feel so sick. It hurts."

"What hurts?"

"Everything. My head, my chest, my legs and arms— "

"Your belly?"

Roxas shook his head numbly, his entire body shaking. "No, just sick."

Axel knelt beside him and undid the buttons of Roxas's shirt, peeling it from the damp skin. It flopped to the floor and Axel scrunched the washcloth, pulling Roxas's arms to him and sweeping the soap over the skin as carefully as he could. The cleanser bubbled and tickled, easing so sensitively over the flesh Roxas hardly felt it, and Axel was quick and observant in making sure every inch of skin was tended.

For once Roxas didn't argue that he could do it himself. Instead he sat on the edge of the bath, holding Axel's shoulder to keep himself steady and breathing deep to ease his stomach, letting the warm cloth scramble over him. The beads shivered together and collected down his front in one large droplet, weaving across him like a silver tapestry, and Roxas was surprised to see that Axel's face never once changed from that of concentration. The Neko half expected a pause—an incompletion of the task and a tightening of the trousers—but Axel never turned to lust, and only the deepest of attention and love came to his touches.

Twice Axel rinsed the cloth, bringing it across Roxas's back, neck, face, chest, and sides until he was happy that the skin was clean. There came a small splash when he dropped the cloth back into the water and he placed his fingers to the blond's sticky trousers. Here he paused and dipped his ears, taking Roxas's waist and lifting him carefully.

"I'm so sorry," Roxas whispered, swaying by the sink and looking away. His breath caught and he bit his lip, pressing his fingers to his eyelids persistently and cursing under his breath when the hot tears cruised over his flushed cheeks. "I just… I'm so s-sorry, Axel."

"It's okay, Kitten, you have nothing to be sorry for. It's natural when you're unwell," Axel soothed. He undid the trouser button and pulled the zipper down, kissing above Roxas's navel and slipping the pants away.

Roxas shivered at the cold stinging his thighs, wobbling ungracefully and holding Axel's shoulders. Axel pulled the boxers away and Roxas stepped out of them, standing bare with a throbbing heart whilst his world span as if drunk. Unable to manage on his own he slumped over, his breath catching unnaturally and the Neko amulet hanging between them.

Axel caught him, stopping him mid-tilt and standing to hug him close. He brushed the tears away with the back of his fingers, shushing his lover with soft kisses.

"I f-feel so embar-hic-rassed."

"It's normal, Kitten. Don't cry."

"It's d-dirty!"

"No, it's not. When you're poorly these things happen." He helped Roxas hug his arms around his waist and nuzzled their noses together. "I love you, Kitten."

"I love you t-too."

"I'll be fast, okay? You'll feel better in no time."

"I c-can do it," Roxas whispered, looking away with a searing heat reddening his cheeks. "If you don't want to, I can— "

"Roxas, look at me." Axel took the Neko's chin and guided him back, smiling fondly. "You're my fiancé and I'm going to marry you. I love every inch of you and I want to take care of you. Please let me."

"B-but…"

Roxas bit his lip and held Axel's hand, hating the tears that flowed. When he tried to speak the words were useless and incoherent, leaving him sobbing by Axel's chest with the redhead trying his hardest to console him. The action was useless, but Axel never stopped trying. Instead he landed kiss after kiss on Roxas's head, hugging the naked frame close.

"It's okay, Kitten. I promise you it's alright. I don't mind."

"I-It's not th-that."

"It's not? But I thought— "

"W-well it is, but it isn't." Roxas shook his head, burying his face in the ruffles of Axel's shirt. "I hurt the k-kittens."

"What? Oh no, no, Kitten, you didn't. They're okay. They're doing well."

"I put you all in d-danger and Roric… R-Roric…"

He cried harder and Axel held him, sitting on the side of the tub and pulling Roxas onto his knee.

"Kitten, it's not your fault."

"What if something's wrong with them? What if the smoke d-did something, or they got too h-hungry?"

"Well, why don't we ask them?"

"Huh?"

Axel sat Roxas alone on the side of the tub and knelt in front of him. He felt the smaller fingers run through his hair and kissed Roxas's belly, taking his time to move his head aside and settle his striped ear to the skin.

Roxas laughed, squirming when the fur tickled his midriff and drying his tears. "Axel, what are you…?"

"I'm listening. Uh-huh… Yep… I agree, I tried telling him… Yeah… I see…"

"Axel?" Roxas twitched his ears as best he could and giggled, moving away from Axel's scratchy beard. "What are you doing?"

"I was talking to our kittens," he said, giving the belly another kiss and winking. "They're very intelligent."

"Oh? What did they say?"

Axel trailed his fingers over Roxas's chest with a cheeky smile. "They said lots of things. They love you—love us. They don't blame you for anything, especially not the fire, and they want to know when your hormones are going to let you stop crying so you can get washed and give them some dinner. They're hungry."

Roxas sniffled, his smile small and sad. "They said that?"

"Well, I may have downplayed it a little. They have a bit of a mouth on them."

"My kittens wouldn't swear."

"Our kittens wouldn't swear," Axel corrected. He took Roxas's hand and kissed each knuckle. "I don't blame you for the fire, Roxas."

"You don't?"

"Of course not. Now let's get you cleaned up and back in bed."

Axel cleaned fast and sensitively, kissing the side of Roxas's head when he pressed too hard and heard the disillusioned whimper. When he squeezed the cloth over the sink the water was brown. Unsatisfied, he emptied it, refilled it at a warmer temperature, cleaned the fabric and did a thorough sweep of Roxas's lower body.

Pleased he was clean Axel kissed the blond's cracked lips, felt the hands sneak around his neck and held them there. He hugged Roxas lovingly, drawing around the thin waist with adoration and taking delight when Roxas's fingers explored up his sharp jawline and over the black birthmarks. Roxas explored with his mouth open like an awestruck child, poking in the dimples of Axel's smile and drawing a line beneath the Tora's chin.

"You need a shave," he smiled at last, sniffling lightly. "You feel like a hedgehog."

"You don't like it?" Axel ran a hand along the stubble, moving his jaw in experimentation. "I think it looks rough. Manly, you know?"

"It feels prickly. Like nettles."

"I better shave then." He pushed his nose to Roxas's, snatching a towel and patting the blond dry before he wrapped Roxas up in a large white robe of utter fluff, stroking the blond's cheek with worry to see the lines of perspiration hanging over the dull eyes. "You still not feeling well?"

Roxas shook his head and rested his brow on Axel's shoulder, shivering in the warmth whilst the Tora's hands rubbed the fur of his ears. He squeezed Axel's shirt and drew a finger over the hairs on his chest.

"I love you, Axel."

"I love you too, Kitten."

Knock, knock!

"Rox, you in there?"

Roxas's white ears twitched at his twin's voice and he cuddled further into Axel. "You can come in, Sora."

The door opened with a click. Sora poked his head around the corner, slipping into the room with something folded in his arms. Axel stared at him expectantly and the brunet shuffled nervously, squeaking his shoes on the floor.

"I er… Raina said you went through your sheets again. You've gone through most of your clothes and we're still the same size so…" He brushed some dust from the clothes and held them outwards, his ears pressed back. "I forgot to iron 'em."

Roxas lifted his head, rubbing at his eyes. "Thanks."

Sora handed Axel the clothes. "Cloud and Zack are going mental, you know."

Axel unfolded the clothes with one hand and held Roxas close with the other. "As soon as they let me near that fleabag I'm gonna rip him apart."

The brown ears twitched and Sora cocked his head at his twin. "You look like crap."

"Thanks," Roxas groaned.

Axel lowered the robe to the blond's hips and pulled the pastel shirt over his head. He brought Roxas's arms through the yellow sleeves and apologised at his Neko's wince, smoothing down the creases on the front and feeling his heart lift to hear Roxas's relieved sigh.

"Turn around, Sora," Axel commanded, picking up the cotton boxers.

Sora turned, tapping his foot thoughtfully. "I wonder what it could have been. Everybody keeps saying it's poison, but what if it wasn't?"

Axel straightened out the elastic over Roxas's waist and tugged the trousers up. Roxas cried at the rough jerks and Axel softened, apologising again and buttoning up the front. When Roxas was finally dressed Axel kissed him and let him rest, looking back to the brunet. "What are you getting at?"

Sora kept his back to them. "It looks like someone wanted you out of the way, but they didn't wanna hurt you, yanno?"

"What?"

"He's saying he doesn't think it's poison, Axel," Roxas said tiredly. "I don't think it is either."

"You don't?" Axel stared at him, amazed. "Are you kidding? You've been sick these past few days."

"I was sick anyway. It could have been poison, but I don't think so. I'm just so tired and my head aches."

"What are you both suggesting?"

Sora rubbed the back of his head nervously. "It looks like a paralysis drug."

"Paralysis?

"I think so too," Roxas whispered, dipping his head to the crook of Axel's neck. "Can I go to sleep now? I'm exhausted."

"You've only been up twenty minutes."

"He's just tired, Sora," Axel said, looping his arms around Roxas and picking him up.

Sora nodded, giving the couple a small smile as he left the bathroom. Axel went to follow, but when he took his first step Roxas turned into him, looking up and tugging the redhead's shirt.

"Axel, has Kahn been to see me?"

"Kahn? That worm's not coming anywhere near you while you're sick."

"You said I was screaming…"

"You had a nightmare, Kitten. I came in with Reno and Xain and we checked the place. There was nobody there. Why? You think Kahn did this?"

"No! No, I just…" Roxas bit his lip, flopping his ears over. "I need to say sorry."

"Sorry?"

"For hitting him. It wasn't right. I— "

"No, Kitten. He deserved it. Don't even think of apologising to him."

"He's my friend— "

"He's a snake."

"I— "

"I'm not getting into this with you. You're unwell and it's my job to take care of you and our kittens. I'm not letting him near you."

"But I— "

"I'll not hear another word on it, Roxas. I'll die before I see you crawling back to him."

"Wouldn't be crawling," Roxas muttered. "I just wanna say sorry."

Axel growled and Roxas abandoned the subject, wincing at the bright torches in the adjoining room and looking away from the growing company. Raina pulled the bed sheets back, smoothing out the under layer and shooing Sora away when he jumped on it.

Titan sat by a table on the far side of the room, conversing in whispers with Pete whilst Merlin and Xemnas talked between each other and sorted white pills. Roxas curled his nose, sinking into Axel's arms to hide himself from view uselessly.

Axel placed him on the new sheets and Roxas smiled to be clean and cool. Axel guided him to the pillows and he leaned back, kicking the covers away when the Tora tried to pull them up.

"Roxas, I'm not playing."

"I'm hot, Axel."

"Darling, you may feel you are hot but your skin is cold," Raina said, moving from his bedside so Axel could sit down.

The Tora tucked the covers tight over Roxas's waist, leaving his torso free and stroking his hair. "Sorry, Kitten, but it's for your own good."

"But— "

"Roxas, we have something for you," Merlin said. He stood by the bedside in his long robe, poking something in his palm. "We have a treatment plan that should see you to full strength and avoid further problems for your kittens. Your body is low on nutrients, so we have for you a list of instructions you must follow. Do you understand me?"

"I-I think so."

Merlin sighed. "Axel, do you perhaps understand me?"

"Of course."

"Then I will direct my words to you so you can care for your fiancé and unborn. I am sorry for not speaking to you directly, Roxas, but your lack of education intermingled with your disregard for rules has me worried that you will not hear the necessity of my words."

Roxas leaned into the pillows. "You calling me stupid, Merlin?"

"That is one way of putting it," Xemnas grumbled. "Merlin, if you please, I am sure Roxas is looking to rest, as is the rest of this unlucky castle."

"Of course. Axel, we believe Roxas is suffering from a case of poisoning, though we are unsure of the poison and therefore unable to prevent it directly. What we can do, however, is control the symptoms Roxas is feeling and increase his health slowly through various properties. The current symptoms identified are various; shallow breathing, a reduced heart rate, lack of vitamins, continuous vomiting, the inability to control the bladder, unconsciousness, headaches, dizziness, fatigue, muscle pain etc. Now, we have estimated certain proportions of the symptoms to the identification of your kittens, but that is still no reason not to act on them.

"We believe the fatigue is merely the body attempting to repair itself. The perspiration and urination is a method of diluting the toxins from the blood, as is the increase in vomiting. We can give stabilisers to soothe these in the form of a pill, however we can only give a mild dose to ensure we do no great harm to the kittens. The headaches, dizziness and muscle pain appear to be effects of the poison, though we do not think levels are critical now that Roxas has woken. However, we still have medication to tackle this issue. The shallow breathing and heart rate are related to the problem you revealed to us in the previous physical. For now the most important thing is for Roxas to get plenty of rest, plenty of medicine, lots of help and important vitamins. Food and water are essential as he should now be looking to increase his weight. Ultimately we are prohibiting him to a minimum of two weeks close medical care. I believe you know what this means."

Axel nodded and Roxas peeked his eyes open worriedly, squeezing the Tora's fingers. "Axel? What's he saying?"

The redhead kissed the blond's hand and swept his thumb over it. "They're putting you on medication and bed rest for two weeks."

"What?"

"Stay still, Kitten."

"But, Axel— "

"No," Axel said, his ears thrown back and his mouth a thin line. "I agree with them wholeheartedly. I am terrified I'm going to lose you. You're staying in bed and doing what they say."

"But I don't— "

"No, Roxas," Axel snapped. "As father of our family I won't take no for an answer. You're staying in bed until you're better."

"But— "

"Roxas, dear, you have to think about your health. Not only are you poorly, but also your kittens," Raina said sadly.

"I know it's hard," Axel said, softening when the blue eyes shimmered. "I understand that you love your freedom, but our kittens need you to sit still and get better. It's only two weeks."

"That's a long time."

"It'll fly by, Kitten. I'll be here through it all."

"Yeah?"

"Of course. I promised, didn't I?" Axel winked, bringing Roxas's hand up to the stubble of his beard and kissing it. "So, Merlin, what is it you'll be giving him."

"Vitamins mostly. Something to calm his stomach enough for them to take effect and possibly a light dose of pain relief."

Merlin held his palm outwards for them to see. In his hand were six shiny pills, all white in colour and all different shapes. Roxas counted them under his breath, his ears back.

"That's a lot…"

"They will go down smoothly, Roxas. One at a time and you will be done," Merlin said, handing the pills to Axel and giving Roxas a glass of water.

Axel jiggled them. "How many times a day?"

"Twice."

"Twice?!"

"Calm down, Kitten. Here, there's the first one." Axel handed over the small white pill, holding Roxas's knee. "Just swallow it back like a sweet."

Roxas made his way through the pills with great effort and a raw throat, stopping after the third when he was sure he was going to throw up. Axel held the last one from him, helping him drink before he took the glass away.

"Merlin, you say this last pill's a sedative?"

"Yes. I am glad you have withheld it for the time being. Roxas, although you have had fluid your body is still devoid of reasonable solids to help the medicine become active. It would be good for you to give your body something to consume other than itself."

"Huh?" Roxas teetered, his vision fuzzy around the edges. "Axel, I don't…"

"You have to eat something for the medicine to work," Axel said. "Sora brought soup. Think you can manage it?"

A bead of sweat fell down the side of Roxas's face and he shuddered. "No."

Axel took the bowl from Raina and pressed it into Roxas's hands. "Please, Kitten."

"Axel, I can't— "

"For our Peanuts."

Axel stroked his hand over Roxas's belly and the small fingers tightened around the bowl. Blue eyes looked up, afraid, and Axel offered him a reassuring smile.

"They're really hungry, Kitten. They need you to do this for them, even if you don't feel like it."

Roxas stirred the creamy soup. "How much?"

"As much as you can handle. Then you can sleep."

"You promise?"

"I promise."

Warm relief spread through Axel at Roxas's first mouthful and, although the blond scrunched his nose and complained that Sora couldn't cook, it broke the uneasy spell in the room. Chatter returned in small waves, Axel's heart lifted and a sense of calm normality rested over their heads.

Axel rubbed up Roxas's leg, purring contently to see the blond swallowing back a sixth mouthful until the orange soup with the small herbs was half gone. With a delirious moan Roxas wiped the back of his mouth, pushed the bowl away, and closed his eyes.

"Done."

"That's it?" Axel peered into the porcelain dish. "I still see some in there."

"I'm full."

"It's only a little dish."

"Axel, sweetheart, I know you are concerned but you must remember what I told you before." Raina rested her hand on his shoulder, taking the bowl from Roxas. "Little and often is key."

"Can I go to sleep now?" Roxas groaned, enjoying the soft thumb she stroked over the back of his ear as it ruffled the white fur back.

"Of course, sweetheart. Sora, out."

"What? Aw, c'mon."

"Out. Titan, Pete, you too." She scowled at their raised eyebrows, her hands on her hips. "One of my kittens is sick and I will not have men hovering."

"Axel gets to stay," Sora sulked, protesting as she pushed him out the door.

"Axel is his fiancé and their kittens' father, not a nosy little brunet looking to keep his brother awake. Go on, out you go. Merlin, Xemnas, after you."

The two Butas looked between each other before they followed after Titan and their king. Raina stayed behind for a moment, her soft ears flat and her chest heavy with breath.

"My, what a day. Roxas, remember to take that sedative. It is safe, darling, don't worry. Keep an eye on him, Axel."

"Yes, Ma'am."

She smiled and closed the door. With a heavy breath Roxas kicked the covers back and shuffled down the pillows, his arms up by his head as if dazed. An annoyed growl came from above him on his right and he whined to feel Axel dragging the covers back to his chest.

"Axel— "

"Take your pill."

Roxas stole the small white circle, picking at it with his nails. "I don't like them. They taste bitter."

"They're good for you. This one will help you sleep and the others will help you get better and keep our kittens healthy. That's what you want, right? To get better so we can get out of this place."

"Two weeks of bed rest… How am I gonna move with Pete at the end of the week?" he croaked, his voice raw.

"We'll figure something out, Kitten. I'll probably fly you over with me."

"And Roric? Axel, I have to be there for him. He's scared, I can feel it."

"You're staying in bed where we can keep an eye on you."

"But— "

"I'll go down and see the court about Roric."

"You won't let them take him, will you?"

Axel curled a blond strand around his finger and swept it back. "I won't let them, Kitten. Now this sedative is gonna make you really tired really fast— "

"I'm already tired— "

"And you might feel funny when you wake up."

Roxas nodded, raising the pill to his mouth before he stopped halfway. "You'll stay, right? You won't leave?"

"I'll leave to see Roric," Axel said, stroking his thumb by Roxas's singed cheeks. "And probably to have a shave, too, but I won't leave you on your own, Kitten. Not again. I'll get Pete or your brothers to sit in."

"Or Kahn."

Axel frowned, leaning away with a shake of his head. "Take your pill, Roxas."

Roxas winced at the cold tone, sitting up on his elbows as far as he could. "Are you mad at me? I'm sorry about the bed."

"It's not that, Kitten, it's just…" He stopped, forcing a smile. "Please, take your medicine."

Roxas swallowed it nervously and leaned back, holding Axel's hand to him when the redhead lifted the covers over his shoulders. He hooked his fingers through Axel's, feeling the soft squeeze and taking the kiss he was given. His vision blurred and his head became heavy, dragging him down to the pillows.

"I love you, yanno?"

"I know, Kitten. I love you too. Scooch over."

Roxas wriggled and Axel slid in beside him, pulling the covers over them both and hugging his arms around him. Another kiss was given to his head and Roxas snuggled against his chest, comforted by the strong arms looped over him. The fingers swept through his blond hair and the world became harder to hold onto, the feelings numb and the darkness cold and closer.

"Axel?"

"Mm?"

"I'll be okay, right?"

"Of course, Kitten. You'll feel better soon."

"An' our Peanuts?"

"They'll be okay. They just need their mummy to get better."

"I think…"

Axel hugged his hand up the Neko's arm, burying his nose in the golden hair and closing his eyes tiredly. "Think what, Kitten?"

A light breath left Roxas's painful chest and his lips twitched into a thin smile. "Think I'll like being the mum."

Axel raised an eyebrow, looking down with a quirky smile, brushing Roxas's hair back and purring to see the sleepy smile hiding on the blond's lips. "Yeah? You know I only tease you. You don't have to be the mum."

"I want to."

"You sound delirious. Close your eyes, Kitten. We'll talk about it when you're better."

"Still can't believe it… twins. Two little Noras."

"Noras?" Axel cuddled Roxas close, intertwining their legs and stroking the blond's cheek. "Should I ask?"

"A Neko and a Tora. They'll be little Nora kittens."

"Why can't they be Tekos?"

"Too close to taco. My Peanuts are Noras. And I'm the mum, so I get to name them."

"I get a say as well."

"Nu-uh."

"Yu-huh. They're my babies too. If it's a boy I get to name it. You can name it if it's a girl. Deal? Roxas?"

He looked down. Roxas was asleep, one hand lowered beneath the blanket to his belly and the other holding onto Axel like a lifeline. With a soft mutter under his breath about timing and a large yawn Axel rested his head over Roxas's, closing his eyes with the torches flickering around them like small beating stars.

The Following Morning

Reno tightened his belt and slipped the golden rings on his fingers. He turned up the collar of his shirt, tugged the front for alignment, and pulled back the curtains of his room. The sun beyond was alarmingly charming, bright and beautiful and completely wrong for the day of a trial and possible execution; it made him mad to think the weather wouldn't cooperate on something so simple. At least a rainy day would delay the beast's death.

Beyond the panes Roric slept in the yard, its legs folded beneath it and its neck chained. A grimace lined Reno's lips and he left the room, stalking the rich halls with the lush tapestries and deluxe furnishings. By the steps he halted, looking back at the sound of an opening door with his hands in his pockets.

Kahn stepped out, his nose still plastered and his clothes finely trimmed. The brunet tugged his sleeve and rotated it, pulling loose a crimson thread and letting it fall from the silk. In his pockets clinked something metal, and when forest green eyes skimmed up a disturbing smile twitched by the corners of his mouth.

"Hey... Prince Reno, right?"

The Tora leaned by the marble banister and sized the Neko up. "You remember me?"

"Not much to remember. Roxas mentioned you the other day, said you and him had a bit of trouble. But the past is the past, right?"

"Right," Reno repeated slowly, his birth marks and nose wrinkled.

With a roll of his eyes Kahn patrolled to the staircase and looked up at the redhead. "You guys are practically family now. Must be nice."

"They're not married yet. Family comes through blood or marriage."

"Still, he's carrying Axel's kitten. That's got to mean something. Especially with him being so sick… How is Roxy, anyway?"

Reno's blue eyes narrowed and he locked his jaw, chewing his words. "You haven't been to see him?"

"Me?" He shook his head sadly. "I wish I could, but The Neko Council has me too busy. When I saw him in the fire the other day I…" He shivered.

"You weren't in the stable?" Reno folded his arms and closed his eyes. "You were on the scene pretty fast."

A subtle scowl drew along Kahn's mouth and his brow was upturned to a frown. He clutched something in his pocket, stepping closer so the maids and servants could pass around him.

"What are you saying, Prince Reno? You think I could have…? You're sick."

"Well the world knows that," Reno smiled, his canines showing. "I'm just stating the facts, Kahn. Do you think you can keep up with them?"

"Why should I need to keep up with facts? They don't change."

"Lies do." He leaned in close, his words biting by the tense Neko's ears in a whisper. "I may hate Night Crawler, Kahn, but that's my future niece or nephew he's carrying. I'm warning you now, back off."

"I don't know what you're talking about. I— "

"I'm not an idiot," Reno growled. "When Roxas leaves you're staying here, away from him and away from us. And if I ever catch you alone with him again, well, we'll be having problems won't we."

Kahn looked down the steps with a short gulp. "He's leaving? You're making him move?"

"That's none of your concern. If you're smart you'll stay away. He belongs to Axel now."

"He shouldn't belong to anybody. Especially not a Tora— "

"You got something against Toras, Neko?"

Kahn bit his lip and shook his head. "No, nothing against them. We should probably get in the meeting, don't you think? They'll be looking for me."

Thick laughter rumbled from Reno's chest. "Aw, am I making you nervous? Good. Get your arse in that courtroom and keep your mouth shut. My brother wants that beast alive."

"I thought you and Axel weren't pally?"

"We're blood."

Before Kahn could try to break back into the conversation Reno grabbed his arm painfully tight and marched him down the steps. Maids moved aside for them and they made it down the spiral staircase. Kahn didn't struggle, but he was grateful Reno released him when the ornate doors were thrown inwards and their presence was made clear.

The room was stunningly terrifying. The lower floor was an open sphere of white marble, the pillars carved mahogany holding atop them grand balconies that overhung the area. On the left and right the galleries were combed with fine seats intended for royalty or those of high order, in the centre hung a crystal chandelier of low hanging beads to give the reflection of rain, and at the very end of the room, situated on ground level in a high silver plated box with ignited golden torches, was The Neko Council and Cloud.

The blond Neko looked less than thrilled to be situated dead in the centre of the prudent box. His elbows jutted out clumsily, his posture was slumped and his head dipped, his eyes heavy with bags and his hair no longer shining. Beside him, on his left, was Luka, and on his right, now ascending to his seat, was Kahn.

Reno leaned beside the door. Xain came down from the upper levels to stand with him and they ignored the many eyes overlooking them with mild curiosity. The doors remained open and Titan appeared, walking with Axel beside him. Together the Tora family stayed by the door.

"How is Roxas?" Xain asked, his voice small to avoid other ears hearing.

"Sleeping," Axel answered, his strong eyes narrowed on The Neko Council. "Xion and Hayner are with him."

"You think that's enough?"

"Raina's around too. So are Gareth and Riku. Xaldin's sat in the hall outside his room."

"Nothing will happen anyway," Reno muttered, glaring at Kahn until the Neko dropped his head.

"It is always better to be safe than sorry, Reno," Titan chided, but before he could continue his speech a herald stood at the front of the court in multi-coloured clothes and spoke loudly for them all to hear:

"Kings and Queens, Princes and Princesses, Lords and Ladies, Knights and maids, we have drawn you forth to witness the prosecution of the accused for the following five accounts: count one, starting the blaze; count two, endangering lives; count three, attempted murder on Prince Roxas; count four, anarchy of the highest order; count five, foul blood and bad breeding of the mind. Bring forth the accused!"

"This is folly," Titan whispered. "Blaming a beast for a man's actions. We should be pointing this dagger at this ridiculous council, not an animal."

His voice went unheard and two large Nekos with masked faces dragged a wheeled platform into the room with thick grunts. The chains rattled and clinked over their shoulders, their ears were thrown back and the groaning wood creaked. They set it to rest in the centre and Axel withheld a wince at the sight of the burned beast.

Roric was unconscious, forced into a drugged state through the mental link it shared with Roxas. It was strapped to the platform with its legs tucked beneath it, its back constrained with metal hoops and bands tied with rope and welded to the fasteners on either side; the wings were pegged to the corners and outstretched like a dark butterfly brought to display and the skull was encompassed in a harness so tight the skin beneath had turned white where the blood couldn't flow. It cried in its sleep and snorted, the oily skin burned and untreated to the point were infected sores had begun to grow along the side and under the belly.

Axel left his family, his steps loud in the silence. At the beasts side he pressed his hand to the struggling ribcage, feeling the heavy breath shudder out of an animal once so grand.

"What have you done?" Jade eyes looked up to the surreal court, ignoring Cloud's astonished stare and pinpointing his glare on Kahn. "Are you all idiots or just monsters?"

"Hold your tongue!" A councilman roared. "This matter is not to be concerned with a Tora."

"A Tora? I'm a prince you insolent little runt!"

"Axel, calm yourself," Titan said, his voice unnervingly stable. "Xain, Reno, take your seats. We may be here a while."

They obeyed without comment, climbing the grand steps and sitting beside the Tori. Titan took his place beside Axel and pulled him away from the beast, coughing into his fist and raising his head to the council.

"What is it the council hopes to achieve with this charade? Surely it cannot be believed that this beast is the cause of the fire when it was tied. Cloud, do you believe this?"

Cloud closed his eyes, leaning back in the large throne and rubbing the side of his head. "That beast loves Roxas. It wouldn't do a thing to hurt him, I know that, but have you tried explaining that to these idiots?"

"Sire must watch his tongue. Idiot is a harsh word," Luka said, bowing his head and turning to look down on Titan. "You must understand, Tora King, that there is no other rational explanation. How else was the fire started when no other was in the vicinity?"

"How about the same people that drugged Roxas?" Axel barked.

"You insinuate that the young prince's injuries came from more than one source. Very well, who is not to say that this was a group effort, or the idea of another nation?" Luka stroked his beard thoughtfully. "I would ask you to think on your words, Prince Axel. A man of such education must understand that— "

"I understand perfectly! This corrupted kingdom is blaming its closest friends and allies for the poisoning of my fiancé."

"You brand yourself our ally?" A repugnant man snorted on Cloud's far right. "To what right do you call yourself our ally? Because you are 'destined' to marry Night Crawler? Folly! As soon as the boy wakes it is imperative that this flawed plan be stopped— "

"Our engagement is not a flawed plan!"

"What is it if not that?" Luka asked calmly. "The young prince has been brainwashed since his time of war. This ridiculous pregnancy was merely a Tora trick to keep him sweet. You think he will ever be identified as yours? This court will rip itself apart before it will surrender its prince to the Toras."

"The court will have no say in my brother's personal affairs," Cloud growled.

"It is not the place of the king to decide solely on the negotiation of a spirit such as Night Crawler," Luka said. "You would gladly surrender him to keep this farce of a peace. You do not think, Your Highness, which is why we are here for you, to help guide you with such affluent subject matter."

"My brother is not subject matter."

"What else is royalty good for?" Luka asked "The council has spoken privately beyond the consultation of the king and we have decided that, given the recent events, it is unfair to force this marriage upon Prince Roxas. We will see to the extraction of these blasphemous kittens and then he will be used for— "

"How dare you!" Axel snarled, wishing he had his blade on his hip. "How dare you call my kittens blasphemous and how dare you insinuate I've forced this marriage upon him. I ought to rip you to shreds just for— "

"Look how violent Toras are!" A council man roared, standing and pointing at Axel indignantly. "How can we allow our own prince to be wed to this monster? He has landed abominations in a womb that should not exist! He has— "

"That is enough!" Titan roared, holding Axel back by his collar. "Sir, if you have any disrespect to say towards my flesh let you speak as a man and step out into the courtyard with your sword ready to defend yourself."

"W-what? Disgusting Toras, I need not prove— "

"Coward!" Titan bellowed. "Such a filthy creature dares to spit disrespect to royalty before such an impassive court and attempts all the wriggling traps of a worm to back down from a challenge. Take up your blade and meet me outside else I shall drag you from that podium you hold your preposterous rump upon and I will throw you into the dirt myself you common mongrel."

Uproar landed against the ears of all within the room as a thousand voices shouted to be heard. Up in the galleries royalty and nobility yelled to each other, some for and some against, all determined to have an opinion. Cloud held his head in his hands at a familiar situation, utterly miserable at the head seat with absolutely no power, and beside him the council clucked and spluttered in defence of their argument.

Axel was arguing with the main body of the council when there came a thin, painful shriek. All sound dispersed, the outrageous slurs dropped off the tongues of nobility, and Roric opened its glowing red eyes.

The beast twitched its wings and tried to shake its over indulgent head, bucking its back up and screeching against the constraints, appearing for all the world as a black devil captured and wounded. It shook its head as best it could, released a shredded whine, and sank to the cold wood with a snort, thoroughly defeated.

"Roxas is up…" Axel whispered, swallowing hard and looking up to the council. "You have to free this beast now!"

"It is dangerous," Darren growled, slamming his fist down. "It almost killed Night Crawler."

"It saved him," Titan countered. "Of course, such fools would never see that. If you will not spare this beast's life then let it be taken in by myself. I will purchase it from you and take it to mine own kingdom. There it will be trained and returned to full strength and sanity."

Cloud nodded. "That seems like a reasonable solution to— "

"That would only delay the mental issue of this beast," Luka warned. "We must end its existence now. Cut out its heart and serve it as a warning. We will protect our royalty."

"You are a blind fool, Luka," Titan snapped.

Kahn laughed. "Look who's talking."

"You would dare address me, Shadow? I have warned you once, you will not receive the same politeness twice."

"Toras with courtesy. That's new," Darren snorted. "I put forth that we make an example of this beast. Execute it."

"What?" Cloud pushed his throne away, gripping hard to its back. "I said no!"

"I second that motion," Luka whispered. "I am sorry, My King, but it is a dangerous beast."

"You can't be serious? I'm the king. My word is law!"

"You don't have complete control of the court," Kahn said, his eyes shining. "Roxy needs protecting."

"You dare call him that name again and I'll— "

"You'll what? Go on, Cloud, amuse me. What is it you'll do?"

Cloud clenched his fist hard and sank back into his chair, listening with folded ears and a broken heart as all about him the council members struck an agreement. When all was said and he had given his vote against the idea the herald lifted his voice, speaking over the small hub of noise.

"It is decided. Let the execution take place— "

"No! I won't allow it," Axel growled, standing before the court and all its occupants with ground teeth. "This isn't fair. This beast has done nothing wrong. If you want to look for the scum you should execute look to your own council and decide amongst that!"

"What filth falls from your mouth?" A council man roared, slamming down his fist with chaos supporting him. "You know not what you speak and are only good to serve in your own kingdom. Stay out of Neko matters, Tora."

"Roxas is my fiancé! Everything that affects him is my business. He's been made sick by someone in this court and I'm here to make sure something gets done about it, but I will not have this beast blamed."

"What you will and will not allow is irrelevant, Axel," Luka said, his voice cold and low. "This engagement will be broken as soon as the young prince is able to take council and sign a declaration."

"You're trying to bully him into leaving me," Axel snarled. "You think I'm going to stand by and let that happen? No— "

"Axel, perhaps you should calm yourself and let me handle this," Titan said, stroking his beard. He stepped beside his son and placed a hand upon his shoulder, calming the raging temper that had the younger Tora shaking.

The aged Tora took the floor.

"Let us disregard the issue you have concerning the union of my son and Night Crawler for this moment in time as surely Roxas will wish to speak on the matter himself when he is well. Let us also pretend that you have not spoken out against my future grandchildren, as Neko Kingdom or not I will not stand for it. We are neighbours, but that means nothing in the way of blood."

"Those parasites are inside Night Crawler and he is a Neko, therefore him and his abominations are our concern," Darren spat. "Are you implying that you will wage war against us for them?"

"If war is needed then I will call my kingdom to it. But as I said, let us forget your ignorant nature and disgusting attitudes to control what is not yours to stake claim upon. I recall a conversation I had with Night Crawler upon my first arrival within your kingdom. Now, let me ask you, how do you accuse this beast?"

"The beast is on trial for attempted murder— "

"But how do you accuse it? Surely an animal cannot be blamed for something. They have no rational logic. To execute a beast on the grounds of attempted murder, a truly human error, and arson, a human act, is laughable. The court must recognise that to trial a beast is to make a joke of all it stands for. How else do you charge a beast if not as a beast? As a child? A pensioner? A dispossessed or diseased?"

"This is no ordinary beast," Darren growled. "We charge it as a man!"

Kahn's eyes widened and he looked over, panic flooding him. "No. Fool, you've— "

"Then I ask you," Titan continued, "is it not your legal system that in the trial of all things human—man, child, woman and old—that only four may make the ultimate decision of a penalty? Night Crawler himself informed me that only King Cloud, Lord Zack, Prince Sora and himself could place a punishment upon a reasoned flesh. You have stated here and now, before this very court, that this beast must be logical by your argument; it must be rational to think and emotional to feel, be its intentions good or bad, therefore it is not the court's place to overtake a legal system set with such force. You may have ruled this beast guilty, but it is not you who sets the punishment. Cloud, take the floor. How would you have this beast punished?"

Cloud stood from his chair, the breath in his lungs light with relief. Stood high in the box he overlooked the Toras with a nod of thanks and appreciation, knowing it was returned in the Tora King's shining eyes before he looked up to the galleries, straightened his back, and made his voice loud and clear to all.

"Make my voice heard now. My judgement for the trial of Roric, demonic beast and reasoned flesh, on all five accounts charged against it, is not guilty! Release the beast! I'm going to see my little brothers."

It was dark before Axel found the opportunity to make his way through the castle and up the steps. Outside the stars shone upon the breeze, drifting the world in a lullaby haze of soft mist and cool air that left the castle almost surreally lit both within and without. The torches in the holsters stuck out and licked up the wall with everlasting amounts of oil, glittering upon the faces and backs of the passing maids and guards that stared at him with bowed heads and sheepish smiles.

He gave them polite nods and stalked the halls, taking turns he had memorised until he came to white wooden door emblazoned with flames on either side. The handle turned easily and he walked in, scanning who was in the room with care for one only.

Cloud had thrown his cloak over the back of his chair and had opened the top thee buttons of his shirt. His eyes were closed and his hands were wrapped tightly around Tifa's waist, drawing her safely upon his lap with her wings draped down to the floor. She rested her head on his chest, his chin lost in the frizz of her brunette hair as they both slept.

In the chair next to the couple was Zack, one leg crossed over the other and an arm wrapped around Aerith. The Nezumi princess slept on his chest, her fingers linked with his and her legs tucked up over him. At one point Zack had been stroking her hair, but as time had stolen him away into sleep his hand had stilled, leaving his palm on the top of her head.

On the opposite side of the room, sat on a couch and sprawled over Riku's knees with his mouth open and his snores loud, Sora slept like a baby. His arms were wrapped behind his head and he hung his legs over the back of the couch, turning into the silver haired male's belly as they both slept contently. Beside his brother slumbered Gareth, the previous Neko Queen held in his arms as they slept without care.

More chairs had been dragged into the room to make it cosy. In the one closest to the bed sat Raina, her knitting forgotten in her lap as she slept with her head knocked back and her fringe tussled before her eyes. Titan slept in the seat beside her, hanging over the edge with deep breaths and folded ears. The only other Toras in the room were Xain and Reno, both of which were leaning on each other on the far side of the room, keeping each other upright with their heads dipped and their chins touching their chests.

Axel closed the door as faintly as he could and made his way to Roxas's bed. Soft blue eyes looked up to him, still dazed some, and Roxas smiled, sitting up on his elbows and bringing Axel to him as soon as he was close enough. Axel almost yelped when the blond tugged him down, threw his arms around his neck and kissed him. Blue eyes were awash with happy tears as Roxas sprung kiss after kiss along the Tora's lips and cheeks, laughing quietly by the stubble and nuzzling his nose.

Axel stroked Roxas's cheek, whispering quietly to avoid waking the sleeping guardians.

"What was that for?"

"Thank you. For helping Roric. Everybody came back and told me and I… Goddess, I love you so much, Axel."

Axel's eyes shone and he knelt by the bed, staring through the moonlight that traipsed through the open window. He ran his fingers back through Roxas's hair, scratching just behind his ears. "You waited up for me?"

"Of course. Merlin wasn't happy, but he said I could. I took the other medicines and left out the sedative."

"And you've eaten?"

"Yeah. You've been gone ages. I kept waiting." He took Axel's hand from his ears and held it to his cheek. "What took you so long?"

"I'm sorry. I had to sort Roric out."

"Is he hurt?"

"A little, but he's doing okay. He's patched up and sleeping down in the yard under the makeshift canopy. Are you okay? The kittens— "

"Merlin and Xemnas checked them a few hours ago," Roxas whispered, turning on his side and smiling. "They're fine. We just missed you."

"Yeah?" Axel nudged him and kicked off his boots. "Scoot over then."

Roxas slid over without complaint, sinking into the cooler side of the bed and pulling the cover back. His eyes lit up in the night and he relied on the moonlight to allow him to see through the dim room. He saw Axel place his boots together by the end of the bed and heard the rustling of the Tora's shirt as it was pulled away and left to fall on the floor.

Axel shimmied into bed in just his socks and trousers, hugging Roxas to his chest with light kisses for the blond's lips. Roxas smiled and dipped lower, pulling Axel over him with the covers hugging their shoulders.

With a cheeky smile Roxas brought Axel into another kiss, his fingers threading back through the red hair and gripping tight. The Tora's strong hands slipped away from his hair to travel down the Neko's chest and by his waist, pressing him into the dry sheets with a small nibble along the blond's lower lip. The kiss deepened and Roxas ran his hands up Axel's back, feeling the muscles with a splendid shiver and a soft breathy moan for the tongue gliding through his mouth to tease his own.

Axel slipped his knee between the blond's legs, lost in the moment until the covers were yanked back and both froze. Their kiss broke and Axel gulped, slowly pulling his knee away from Roxas's crotch and glancing over his shoulder.

Titan scowled at them, holding the quilt tight in his hand.

"Well, this is interesting."

"Dad, I can explain— "

Titan chuckled, shushing Axel as the snores deepened around the room. "It is alright, Axel. You are both engaged and it is natural to want to express feelings of intimacy. However, whilst Night Crawler is not at full health I would ask you to suppress your urges. Both of you." He looked from Axel to Roxas, catching the Neko's blush. "We do not want any further injuries tonight."

Axel rolled his eyes, taking the quilt from his father and covering himself and Roxas back up. Titan placed a hand on his hips, staring hard.

"I mean it, Axel."

"I know, dad. Don't worry, we were just kissing. We're allowed to do that, right?"

"Axel, it is me you are talking to. I know exactly what kissing leads to. Kissing is the reason you were conceived."

"It wouldn't have led to that."

"Oh?" Titan raised an eyebrow curiously. "I suppose you had your knee beneath Roxas's penile area for comfort, then?"

"Oh geeze," Roxas blushed, sinking down the covers.

"Dad, we get the message," Axel growled, looping his arm around Roxas and holding the sick Neko to him. "No sex."

"I thought you were just kissing?" Titan asked, his eyes sparkling. At Axel's red cheeks and sour scowl he laughed, shaking his head. "Make sure you both get plenty of rest. And I mean rest, Axel. I'll be up for a few more hours yet if either of you should need anything."

"How about some damn privacy?" Axel grumbled, turning over and laying Roxas's head on his chest. He stroked his thumb by the Neko's belly, kissing the top of his head with a stiffness hiding in his lower trousers. "I'm sorry, Kitten."

"It's okay," Roxas whispered, laying his ears flat until he was sure Titan was back in his seat. "Hey, Axel?"

"Yeah?"

Roxas shuffled under the quilt, hugging the Tora's warm chest to him. "I'm cold."

Axel frowned, pressing the back of his hand to Roxas's forehead. The flushed heat had him nervous, but he paid it no mind with Xemnas and Merlin giving Roxas the all clear and drew his fingers back, sitting up in the darkness.

"You want me to get you another blanket?"

"Would you mind?"

"Of course not, Kitten," Axel smiled, pulling the covers from himself and tucking them around Roxas. He leaned over the side of the bed, pulling on his boots. "You want anything else while I'm up?"

"W-well…"

Axel leaned back and placed a hand on Roxas's knee, giving him a quick wink. "Is there anything else you want?"

"Well…" He sighed, looking at the ceiling with twitching ears. "I'm hungry."

"Yeah? Roxas, why didn't you say— "

"I want to go get it myself," he muttered. "But with everybody here babysitting me I can't exactly move. I hate having to ask, but would you mind?"

"Of course I don't mind. What is it you fancy? Soup?"

"Can I tell you a secret?" Roxas whispered, smiling up at the ceiling with his eyes closed.

"You can tell me anything."

"I hate soup."

"What?"

"Yep. Never liked the stuff. No matter what flavour it is it always tastes slimy." He shivered, as if remembering the taste was too much. "I haven't had meat for days. I'd really appreciate some."

"I don't think you should be eating a roast dinner at midnight, Kitten. What about a sausage sandwich?"

"I'm too sick for sex, Axel," Roxas laughed. He peeked an eye open and frowned at the Tora's confused stare, wriggling under the covers. "That is what you meant, right?"

"No. A sausage sandwich isn't sex, Kitten. It's two pieces of bread, a ton of butter, a few thick blood sausages and sometimes salad, depending on if it's hot or not. Sauce is good too, but I dunno if you're allowed it."

Roxas blinked blankly. "That's a sausage sandwich?"

"Yeah. My own invention. You want to try it?"

"Is there actual blood in it?"

"No, that's just the name of the sausage."

"Okay," Roxas nodded. "I'll try it. You won't be long though, right?"

"I'll be as quick as I can."

Axel bent low to kiss his forehead, pulling on his boots and tying the laces. When he stood his father peeked an eye open quizzically, watching him with narrowed brows.

"Axel— "

"I won't be long, dad."

He tiptoed around Cloud and slipped from the room, shutting the door gently. Roxas turned onto his belly, hugging the pillow beneath him and smelling Axel's scent upon it.

"Roxas," Titan whispered, walking back to the bed. "May I have a word?"

"A word?" Roxas looked up as Titan sat by his feet. His ears fell back and he propped himself up. "Sure."

"Do not feel you have to sit up. You are still unwell and I would hate for you to become uncomfortable on my part."

"It's okay. I'm waiting for Axel anyway." He sat up with a wince for the tug in his tummy and rested back, wiping the growing sweat from his head. "Is there something wrong?"

"Wrong? No, of course not. I…" The old man paused, holding his wrinkled hands in his lap. "I do believe I owe you an apology."

"Apology? For what?"

"For raising my voice at you the other day. It was wrong of me, and I apologise. I panicked to see that my children were in that blaze. I know that they are men now, and they are more than capable of looking after themselves, but I do worry for them. I gave them the best of everything, and yet they are still learning their lessons. You know, when Axel and Reno were small I had to tie them to their chairs when it was time for their lessons."

"Yeah?"

Titan nodded at Roxas's smile. "Oh yes. They hated learning. But it has paid off to see that they can now read and write fluently, can solve mathematical equations, understand cultural thinking, map geographical landscapes and retell history perfectly. Their minds are stunning, when they do decide to turn them on and use them, and their physical abilities are superb. But I am getting off topic. My point is that I know they are capable of handling themselves, but still I was frightened. When your kittens are born you will understand the pain it brought me, but still, I must apologise. It was wrong of me to place blame on your shoulders."

"But it was my fault. You were right, I was an idiot. I should have stopped to think for a second, but I— "

"No, Night Crawler, it was not your fault. The men at fault for this are hidden in the shadows of this world, and we are struggling to see them even beneath the sun's light. Coincidently, you are a shadow— "

"Was a shadow."

"I was wondering whom you thought was responsible for this. Many names have been tossed around this castle, but, without me impairing your judgement any, whom do you think it was?"

"Me? I haven't really given it any thought…"

"You have not? I would have thought your mind would only stew on this situation."

"Well, that's what I'd have thought too," he admitted, looking through the window and out into the moonlight. "But… I dunno. When I saw the fire I couldn't think. It was terrifying. I couldn't snap Roric's chains and if Axel wouldn't have come I don't know if I'd have gotten out in time…" He shuddered, shaking his head. "I'm not afraid for me, Titan, not as much as I should be. I'm more afraid for these kittens. So much has happened in such a short timeframe and it's really…"

"Stressful?"

"In a way. I don't know who started the fire, and I know it sounds bad, but I don't care either. Axel and my kittens are okay, and we're moving in a few days. Revenge doesn't interest me one bit."

"Truly?"

Roxas nodded, holding his hands to his belly. "I know people keep saying the fire was an attack, but what if it was an accident? I just want my family. If it ever comes to a point where I think there's someone targeting me, then I'll make a move against them, but for now… I just don't see it. I'm not blind. I don't think it's impossible for me to be attacked—heck, I think it's more than likely—but until I'm given solid proof I won't put my cloak back on and go looking for someone who might not be there."

"I see. Well, seeing your current situation I do not believe there is any harm in telling you that there are several suspects in the frame. Would you like me to divulge them to you?"

"Several suspects? Who accused them?"

"Many people, myself included. Have you ever heard of a man called Darren before?"

"Darren?" Roxas shook his head. "No."

"He is a new councillor in The Neko Council and was the one who placed this drug into your system. He claims he did not know that there was poison intermingled with the sedative, however he is hardly believed. The other is Kahn."

"Kahn?"

"I believe so."

"Kahn wouldn't do this. He's my friend!"

"Hush, Neko. You are raising your voice when others sleep. Would you wish to wake them?"

"No."

"Then keep your voice low. Yes, Kahn has been accused, though it has not been said outright."

"Kahn wouldn't do this."

Titan frowned, rubbing the stubble of his chin. "Why do you defend him so? Surely such a friendship cannot run so deep after so many years of separation."

"You don't understand," Roxas whispered. "I owe him so much."

"Owe? Neko, you owe no man anything in this world."

"But Kahn wasn't in this world. Titan, you don't understand, when I was little I used to get in trouble all the time. Kahn saved me from guards, from falling off cliffs, from dying of sickness, from…" He stopped, frowning at his lap.

"What type of sickness are you referring to?"

"It's nothing," Roxas whispered, rubbing his nose. "I just don't think Kahn would do something like this to me. He's my friend."

"He is lucky to have a friend defend him so vigorously. Very well, Roxas. I again give you my apology and will allow the subject to drop. I am very glad you and your kittens are well."

"Thank you."

"I must say I am rather enjoying the thought of future grandchildren, but how are you coping?"

"Huh? Oh, it's only been three weeks. I'm fine."

Titan smiled sadly, shaking his head. "You are a terrible liar, Roxas. Come now, tell me true. How are you coping?"

"Honestly?" Roxas looked around the room to make sure the others were still slumbering before he dared to whisper. "I'm really, really nervous."

"You are?"

"Uh-huh. I'm excited, but still worried. Nine months is a long time, and I never really expected it. I still don't think it's sunk in that there are two kittens inside me. I know they're there, but it hasn't clicked yet, you know? I'm really scared something goes wrong."

"I am sure you will do fine carrying these kittens, Night Crawler."

"Merlin said they might not make it to term," Roxas whispered. "I asked what he meant and he said they might not make nine months. They could be born early. Not this early, but he said it could be thirty two weeks instead of thirty six. They're gonna be so little."

"They will gain a layer of fat as soon as they begin eating, Roxas, so I would not worry. Have you decided how they should eat yet?"

"W-well, Merlin talked through some stuff with me in the check-up," Roxas stammered, scratching the burned mark upon his wrist absentmindedly. "My female form's fine, so I should be able to… you know."

"Supply milk?"

Roxas sighed. "Yeah. Merlin thinks I should feed them myself, but Xemnas said I could hire a wetnurse. To be honest I don't know which I'd want. I was just gonna talk to Axel about it later on when we were in our own place."

"I think that is a grand idea," Titan said, his eyes twinkling. "I am very happy that you and Axel are sorting things through rationally, with the other day being a minor exception on the lateness of his person. In Tora culture our women are very fickle when it comes to allowing men to intrude upon the personal space of mother and child, so to know you wish to consult Axel… well, I am very happy."

"He's the father of my kittens. Why shouldn't he have a say in how they're gonna eat?"

"Too true. So, I see you named Axel the father. Will you be taking an equal place beside him or— "

"No, I don't want to confuse my kittens any more then they're gonna be already. I'm already going to have to explain how I managed to get pregnant when they're old enough, I don't want to be explaining why they call both of us dad, too. So, I guess I've kind of submitted a little. I don't mind being the mum."

"I am surprised, Roxas. What of your pride as a man and your masculinity?"

Roxas snorted into the back of his hand and laughed. "Aw, come on, Titan. The day your son knocked me up my masculinity flew out the window."

Titan smiled. "And this does not bother you? I can have a word with Axel, if you'd like."

"Axel offered me an equal title, but I just don't see how that would work. These kittens are going to be looking at the world and wondering why they have two dads instead of a mum and a dad. I can at least try and clear that up for them."

"And you think they will not ask why their mother does not have breasts or the correct private areas?"

"I can explain that to them when they're older. When they're little all they need to know is that Axel is daddy, and I'm mummy. That way they won't get confused."

"They may experience gender confusion," Titan warned. "To call you their mother and then see other mothers appear differently will confuse them."

"I just have to explain it as an irregularity. When they're little I just have to explain that I'm the mum, but make it clear that I'm not a woman. Xion and Hayner will be around all the time so I can use them as my example."

"Does Princess Xion know?"

"It was Xion's idea."

"Very well then. So long as you are both comfortable in your decision, I will support it. Heaven knows it will be good to have little feet running through the Tora castle again."

"Tora castle?" Roxas's ears dropped and he rubbed the back of his neck, looking away. "Gee, I dunno if we should think that far ahead."

"You will be bringing them to the Tora Kingdom when they are born, won't you?"

Roxas stayed quiet for a time, staring at his hands. When he finally spoke he refused to look at Titan, cuddling his belly instead. "Titan, your kingdom makes me really nervous. Whenever I come close to the border I just want to turn around and run."

"Surely you must know that whilst I rule you are safe there. You are practically family, Roxas, yet you have not visited since the war. It is very sad."

"If I could I would, but… there's something about having one of your son's continuously try to execute me in your castle that makes me want to keep me and my kittens away. I know Axel is a Tora and my kittens are going to be half Tora, and I know I'm going to have to get over this dumb fear, but it's going to take time. I can't even go to your kingdom myself, how can you ask me to let my kittens go? Even if they were with Axel I wouldn't think about leaving them alone."

"You do not trust us?"

"There are a few members of your family that worry me," Roxas mumbled. "I trust you fine, and I won't stop you from seeing these kittens one bit, Titan, I won't even stop Reno seeing them, I just… I need a little bit of time before going back to your kingdom."

Titans sighed sadly, but nodded his head all the same. "War has made you a timid shadow, Night Crawler. I hope we can ease your fear."

"I'm sure it'll go before these kittens are here."

Click!

Both Titan and Roxas looked to the door, smiling to see Axel return. The door shut quietly and the Tora grinned back, an extra blanket thrown over his shoulder and a plate in his hand. He tiptoed around Cloud, still shirtless with his burn obscured from Roxas's view in the darkness, and walked over to the odd pair, raising an eyebrow curiously.

Titan stood and moved, allowing Axel to take his seat. He took the plate from his son, shaking his head at the useless excuse of a sandwich whilst Axel tucked the new blanket over Roxas and scooted in beside him.

"Axel, do you seriously consider this food?"

"There's nothing wrong with it," Axel defended, taking the plate and handing it to Roxas. He looped an arm around the blond, kissing the side of his head and stealing half of the sandwich for himself. In two bites his half was gone, leaving him licking the grease from his fingers and brushing the crumbs down the bed.

Roxas took a smaller nibble. His ears folded over and he sighed, leaning into Axel.

"Goddess, you really can't cook."

"What are you talking about? That's one good looking sandwich, Kitten."

"It's greasy."

"Yet you're taking another mouthful," Axel said, wrapping his arms around the blond's belly.

"I'm hungry enough to eat it," he laughed, having another small bite. "I think I should do the cooking in our home…"

"You never did it before," Axel grumbled.

"I could get away with it before. I have to eat healthy now, right?" He licked the dripping brown grease from the side of his hand. "I love you for trying, but I don't mind cooking."

"You can cook, Night Crawler?" Titan asked.

"Uh-huh." He took another small bite and forced it down. "I was never allowed out when I was little unless I sneaked out. Raina babysat and, well, she still had to cook dinner. I helped. I can cook everything she used to make from scratch."

"I don't mind cooking for you," Axel said.

"I think Night Crawler is perhaps correct, Axel. You are not the best of cooks, though I know your heart is in the right place. Chances are that when you are in your own home you will have maids and servants as well as cooks to answer your every call. There will be no need for either of you to cook."

"No, I'd still like to," Roxas said, taking his last mouthful. "I don't like being in the kitchen, but I wouldn't want someone else doing my work for me. I'll need something to do, anyway, seeing as I won't be working here anymore." He brushed the crumbs away in mimic of Axel, slumping down the pillows and closing his eyes. "Thank you for the food, Axel."

"You're welcome, Kitten. You tired already?"

"Mmm…" Roxas hummed, resting his head on Axel's torso and listening to his heartbeat.

"Axel, you must understand that within the first and last few weeks of this pregnancy Roxas is going to be very tired. It is late. You should both get some rest."

He left them to sleep and Axel shimmied down the covers, stroking his hand back through the blond hair and listening to the breaths even out by his chest. He took Roxas's hand and wrapped it around his waist, letting him hold tight.

"I can't wait to start our family," he whispered in the Neko's ear, nuzzling the soft white fur. "I love you, Roxas."

Roxas shuffled, reaching up to stroke the stubble of Axel's chin and kissing him. "I love you too. Come on."

He rolled on to his side facing the window, curling up into a ball and taking Axel's hand with him. The Tora curled around Roxas's back, kissing the crook of his neck and sneaking his hands around the Neko's belly, intertwining their legs and purring softly.

Author's Notes:

There you have it guys! Everything turned out okay, for now. I'm sure Kahn will have a few more tricks up his sleeve, but at least Roric, Roxas, and the kittens are okay - although I don't think he's going to let Roxas leave without a fight...

I hope you enjoyed guys!

Oh, and please forgive any mistakes as I have not yet had time to proofread this chapter. Thanks!

Stalker - Yeah, I thought it was about time we were all reminded that Roric and Roxas had a unique bond. And you're right! This story is going very slow but I am doing it for a reason, a lot is going to happen and I don't want anybody to get lost along the way, but I promise we move away from the Neko Kingdom soon! I'm glad you like the idea of twins! I'm sure they're going to be more than a handful for Axel and Roxas to deal with ^_^ and Kahn is not through with everybody yet, so we shall see what he has in store. I hope you like this chapter!

Guest - Haha, sorry it was intense, but you know things have to get a bit wild from time to time in these stories ^_^ As long as you enjoyed it that's all that counts :) I never actually thought of TLM Titan until you brought it up, but I suppose the parenting skills are quite similar - always trying to get it right and mucking up, I mean - and I hope this chapter puts to rest any worries you had regarding the kittens, Roxas, and Roric. The only question now is what's Kahn gonna do next?