Mascheny watched from the balcony as the fiery inferno, otherwise known as her 'sister,' created a whirlwind within the courtyard. Wherever Yuri went, she was apparently determined to create a fuss. The staff and guards will be gossiping about her for months.

Of course, it wasn't often when two princesses of Jahad decided to visit their reclusive sister on the same day.

The disappearance of her newfound little brother was problematic. FUG was meddling in her affairs all over again. The deal between them was somewhat shaky, but it was a blatant disregard for her status and all that she has done for FUG. No, the little cult was greedy and sought to undermine her authority by laying claim to her interest.

But she could not storm FUG's headquarters and demand they return Aguero to her. She had too much at stake. While she was an irreplaceable asset to FUG, and her absence would hinder their progress, they were not at risk if the king found out about her treachery. If her treachery was found, she would be executed, and FUG would go about its way. Of course, Mascheny had the names of several FUG leaders and headquarters at her disposal, and she could barter her way out of execution in exchange for information. She could...but she wouldn't. She had been embroiled in this conflict for too long, saw too many siblings fall at Jahad's vengeful blade. She could still recall the glory days of the Khun family. She would see it returned tenfold, or burn the Tower in her ambition.

There were many others who would love to see her downfall. She may be a Khun, but Jahad's blood still ran through her veins. If there was anything in FUG stronger than their idolization for Eduan and V, it was their hatred for the king.

She would have to play this carefully.

She strode through the halls, an easy smile on her face. There was nothing more riveting than having your opponents think they had you backed into a corner with your hands tied behind your back, when in reality, you are concealing a knife.

"Hello Yuri," she purred as she glided down the stairs. Grace and poise cascaded from her very being, whereas Yuri moved like a tank, her heels thundering against the floor and her red eyes eblaze.

Yuri smirked, eyes narrowing as she eagerly looked upon what she considered to be a challenge. On some days, her cocky attitude was endearing.

"Mascheny," she greeted. "I wasn't expecting to see you here."

"I was just leaving," Mascheny stated, gliding past her. "Too many adult things to take care of that a young child like you wouldn't understand."

"Why you-!" Yuri smoothed over her expression. "You know what, fine. Whatever. I don't have time to deal with you."

Mascheny grinned, but Yuri's following words were almost enough to crack her composure.

"Hey," Yuri's voice cut like ice. "Don't think I haven't noticed. I'll find the Yellow May soon. Jue Viole Grace will back me up."

Mascheny's steps did not falter, nor did she look back. However, she allowed herself a small smirk.

Jue Viole Grace. His quick ascent to the Tower had been momentarily halted for a while. Many speculated as to why he had abandoned his former team in favor of lingering on an unimpressive floor. He was not setting up residence, but rather, scouring the floor. For what...well, she had some ideas.

Yes, it was slightly irksome that Viole seemed to have an unusual friendship with some of her sisters. Viole could never adapt to the high society of the Tower, and therefore, he never clicked with Mascheny, which made him and Yuri a compatible pair. While others had cowered in fear of the legendary Jue Viole Grace, the man who was dispatched to hunt and execute the wayward children of Eduan, Mascheny had only felt an enticing thrill in her veins. He was dangerous. Powerful. A powerful alley and a dangerous foe. She sensed that Viole had seen the hunger in her eyes on their first meeting.

Still, Mascheny wished she knew where Viole stood. He had served as the king's dog for so long, yet he was also the spitting image of his father, earning both the king's love and ire. It was obvious that Viole's decision to climb the Tower had been an attempt to distance himself from both the king and the legacy of his parents.

But the king had his ever watchful eye on Viole. Rumors of Arlene's absence from public appearances continued to circulate, and Mascheny pried herself in being one of the few who knew a sliver of the truth behind her disappearance.

Grief could be a terrible thing.

Sitting alone in her office allowed Mascheny a chance to reflect on her thoughts and plans. It had been a long seven years. Though FUG dangled Aguero before her, mocking her, she remained resolute. FUG was blind in their brief victory.

But they could have Aguero. They could break him, re-mold him, and uncover his power. He would be ripe for the picking when she was ready to collect him.

She sipped her drink with a thoughtful expression, a grin playing on her face. This startled the new participant in the room, who stared at her sister with growing wariness.

"Maria," she said with a smile. "How do you feel about a little reunion?"

Maria blinked, her startled expression showing the primal fear she sought to hide. "Now?" she stuttered. "But...I feel like it's so soon."

Mascheny hummed. "Yes, it may be. But the king is stirring, and FUG is growing bold. I do not want our brother caught in the crossfire."

"Yes, but my dear sister, A.A is still-"

"Still what, little sister? Still untrained? He is just beginning to tap into the power his bloodline has granted him. That is something FUG cannot teach him." A warning slipped into her tone. "Need I remind you that things would have been different for us all had you remained where you were supposed to be; in the cave."

Maria stirred, that old panic flashing back, and she was once more the fourteen year old girl from the cave.

"But I believed that I would be of better use if I served you here-"

"Utau would have served me better here," Mascheny cut in. "And she would have been a better snare for Kisea and Aguero." There was something about the Agnis bloodline that separated them from the new, mediocre children their father kept dumping off on her doorstep. Utau's lost potential was portrayed in her surviving brother, and there was nothing Mascheny hated more than a wasted opportunity.

Mascheny shrugged. "But...I suppose it does not matter. Revenge and hate can serve as a stronger drive than love." She took pleasure in seeing Maria's unease. She decided not to press the issue too much with the question as to who would reach Maria first; Kisea or Aguero.

"Tell me," Mascheny studied her drink, "do you think Aguero's feelings for you remain?"

Maria hesitated. "It is difficult to tell. It has been years."

Mascheny watched the young girl carefully. She stirred her tea. "He might hold you accountable for what happened to his sister."

Here, Maria smiled. "No. You see, Aguero chose to help me. He let me go. His sister's death was just an unfortunate occurrence, one he will blame himself for." She sat up, hands folded demerly on her lap. "If anything, I am blameless in his eyes, an unforgettable happening in his life."

"Because Aguero," she continued, "is not one to blame others. Not when he has had some dealing in the matter. He will own up to everything. Every dirty, scummy occurrence. And he will wish to protect others from his filth, even if it means drenching himself in the blood of others." She looked up at Mascheny with confidence in her eyes. "You see, my sister, his feelings for me may have changed, but they have not diminished in the slightest."

"Yet Kisea," Mascheny reminded, "holds no such sentiments." She leaned back. "It will be very interesting to see who Aguero chooses to align with when the time comes."

xXx

"I'm telling you Bam, the boy has feelings for me. It's embarrassing."

Bam bit the inside of his cheek to prevent a chuckle from bursting forth. "I'm sure Hatz will remain respectful of your station, princess." He paused. "And Shibisu and Lauro."

Endorsi sighed. "Well, whatever. I can't blame any of them, really."

This time, Bam did chuckle, the lighthearted conversation with Endorsi doing much to lift his spirits. "And Anaak," Bam asked. "How is she?"

"Restless," Endorsi supplied. "You know she hasn't gotten over your decision to leave. I think she's waiting to hear back about you joining up with a new, permanent, team."

Bam sighed, feeling a headache worm on. "I'm not abandoning the team, Endorsi," he said. "I just need a team to continue climbing. You know how it is. Besides, this new team will fit very well with you guys when we catch up. Which will be soon."

"Don't get cheeky Bam," Endorsi warned, but he could detect the grin in her voice.

Truthfully, he had debated on whether or not he should bring Anaak with him when he decided to stay a few floors behind. Anaak had remained resolute and determined in their little side mission, more so than anyone else. He had never seen anyone throw themselves into a missing person's case more eagerly than she had. Bam had no idea what had happened to her on the Floor of Tests during the final test, but she had emerged as a changed, determined lizard.

But ultimately, he had decided it would be best that Endorsi and Anaak remain together. At the very least, Endorsi's popularity would cause any assassinations on Anaak to remain on hold.

"By the way," Endorsi continued, "have you heard anymore from that red-head friend of yours? Her absence is starting to worry me. And to think I actually miss her presence." The last statement was a grumble.

Bam frowned. In truth, he had not spoken to Hwaryun in months. They had parted on less than civil matters, on Bam's part. With Hwaryun, he always felt like she had the advantage and he was just playing into her hands. If he was angry, it was to her benefit, no matter what or how he felt. Still, he'd rather have her as an ally than an enemy.

"Hwaryun is MIA," Bam responded. "But I wouldn't worry about it. For the time being, just focus on the tests." He hesitated. "Tell the team I said 'hi.' I'll see them soon."

"Hurry back," Endorsi whispered, voice low and sultry. "I grow impatient with your absence. Really, you shouldn't tease-"

Bam sighed as he deactivated his pocket, effectively cutting off Endorsi's voice. The crowds proceeded to move around him, yet he stood as still as an imobile rock in the wake of a relentless sea. The murmurs of ongoing conversations washed over him, dulling his senses.

His last talk with Hwaryun had left him frustrated. He had no intention of involving himself in his father's pointless affairs. Trouble had always followed his ill-advised parents. Jahad's infatuation with his mother left him blind to her deceit. It was only because of her influence that Bam remained in Jahad's good graces. But over time, Bam could feel the king's gaze turn resentful. He was waiting in growing anticipation before the king grew bored of him and disposed of him, regardless of his mother's influence.

"Protect your mother, Bam. Be there for her no matter what." His father's distant voice was almost forgotten, an agonizing whisper.

"Shut-up dad," Bam growled.

But still, Jahad's favor would wax thin the more Bam remained neutral, and Bam had no intention of returning to the king. V's resources could keep him hidden should the need arise, but would he offer it freely?

Based on Hwaryun's implications, his father would assuredly come for him if he was in danger, but he would expect something in return.

Bam sighed and moved forward with no clear destination in mind. He didn't want to involve his team in this mess. It would swallow them all. Even the resolve of a princess would break against the hateful pressure of FUG.

Really, this Tower was a ravenous beast that sought to destroy them all.

A flash of blue from the corner of his eye stole the breath from Bam's lungs. His gaze snapped upward, tracking the movement, desperately attempting to locate the color. There had been a time when his vision was flooded with blue, leaving him dizzy and hurting. It had waned over time, but the sight of the color blue still stung his heart.

But this was not the flash of a banner or silk robes. No. It was a head of hair, weaving in between the stalls, their stride fast.

Bam was faster. He ran forward, keeping the figure in sight as his heart pounded, blood roaring in his ears.

It couldn't be. After seven years...this would be a cruel trick. It was a dream and a blessed nightmare.

His hand was on the shoulder of the individual, mouth open to call out. "Aguer-"

He never finished. His hand suddenly stung as sharp blue eyes glared at him. The speed of a knife flashed before him, cutting at the hand he had laid on the boy's shoulder. Bam pulled back, blood dripping from the cut. It was not deep, but it was still painful.

After looking at the boy, he figured he deserved it. Anyone grabbing at others was an automatic threat.

The boy held the knife in his hand, his glare remaining. "What do you want?"

Bam was almost dizzy at the sight. For a brief moment, he saw a different, wary boy standing before him.

Bam smiled apologetically as he held his bleeding hand to his chest. "Ah, sorry. I mistook you for someone else."

At least the glare was subsiding. But the knife remained. But those achingly familiar blue eyes still stared at him with mistrust. Bam's heart willed him to look away from the reminder of the painful memories, yet he found that he couldn't. There was something so achingly familiar about this kid that Bam had to resist the urge to wrap the boy in a hug.

The boy scoffed, turning away, and Bam realized with a start that he was leaving.

Desperation clawed at him, leaving him blind with panic. "H-hold up!" Bam exclaimed, starting forward. The knife in the boy's hand was raised threateningly, and Bam wisely held back.

"I...uh," Bam stuttered. "Want to invite you for lunch?" He flinched, hating how his request became a question.

The boy's eyes narrowed in suspicion. "Not interested."

This time, Bam did move forward, despite the knife pointed at him. "It's my treat. Besides," he made a point of looking around. "You have some unsavory characters following you around. Son of Khun."

He didn't think it was possible for the boy's eyes to narrow any further without closing. But they did, and his blue orbs became dangerous slits as he glared.

"Please." Bam held out a hand, aware of the vulnerability he was showing. But he was at a loss of what else to say.

Something unreadable flashed in the boy's eyes. Perhaps it was disgust. Yeah, it was probably that, but he reluctantly followed Bam to an outdoor cafe. Bam had the feeling that the boy would be more uncomfortable sitting inside a secluded place with fewer witnesses. Not that anyone would care if two Regulars killed each other. But he was willing to do anything to make this boy more comfortable.

"You know who I am." The boy had not even bothered to wait for the coffee and pastries to arrive before pouncing on the matter at hand.

Bam shrugged. "Your blue hair and eyes are distinct." He leaned over and held out his hand. "I'm Bam."

The boy stared at his hand, as if it was going to transform into a snake and poison him, before shaking it. "Ran."

Bam smiled. "It's rare to see a child of Khun walking around out in the open."

"You are mistaken," Ran said. He had yet to touch the pastries and coffee. "I am not connected to the Khun family. I never have been."

"It doesn't matter much to me," Bam said with another shrug. He sipped his drink.

The walls Ran seemed to have built up only fortified. "Then what are you doing?"

"I just wanted to make your acquaintance."

"I'm not joining your team."

Bam blinked. "Oh. That would have been nice, but it hadn't crossed my mind until you said something." Bam smiled, falling back into a long lost banter he used to have with another Khun.

"But, uh, the offer still stands then if you want to join my team," Bam continued.

Ran glared. "Is this how you usually recruit members?"

Bam chuckled. "Actually, yeah. My methods are pretty...unorthodox." He instantly remembered a golden field and a feisty bluenette who had the nerve to kick him when they were airborne.

Ran tilted his head. "Not many would want to team up with a Khun, or someone who looks like one. The hostility that comes with associating with one is bad enough that anyone would avoid them like the plague."

Bam's hands clenched around his teacup. "I teamed up with a Khun, actually. He was...an amazing teammate, and I would do it again in a heartbeat." His throat closed up, but Bam was pleased with himself for talking about Aguero without breaking down.

"Let me guess. He died."

Bam's cup shattered at Ran's words. His hands instantly stung from both the heat and the sharp shards digging into his skin.

Ran seemed unphased, like he was expecting the reaction. "It's to be expected. Khuns never survive here for long."

Bam let out a shaky breath. Old wounds were resurfacing, a pain he tried to bury coming back to the light as if...as if Aguero had died yesterday and not seven years ago.

"I'm sorry," Bam whispered.

Finally, Ran showed some confusion. "For...what?"

"You lost another sibling."

Ran shrugged. "Family means nothing in this Tower. Children, parents, siblings, lovers; it's all meaningless." He stood up suddenly. "This is a waste of my time."

Disappointment filled Bam. "I'm sorry about that." He stood up as well. "I wish you luck on the next test." He held out his hand, but Ran ignored it, intending to brush past him.

Bam heard the first sound of a large and fast approaching target. Ran was a few seconds too slow. Bam moved forward, intercepting the large being before it had a chance to squish Ran.

"BLUE TURTLE!"

Bam grunted, wrapping his arms around Rak's neck. "Rak, no! That's not Aguero!"

"Silly Black Turtle! He has blue hair!"

"It's...not...HIM!" Even Bam was surprised at the ferocity in his voice. It was enough for Rak to cease his struggling and grow still. Ran was looking up at Rak with wide eyes, backing away from the table.

Satisfied that Rak was not going to try and kidnap Ran to 'claim' him, Bam let him go. He gave Ran an apologetic smile. "My companion is over-enthusiastic. I apologize."

"Tch." Ran scuffed his feet, shooting them one more look, before he marched off without another glance back.

"Black Turtle," Rak huffed. "Why does the Small Turtle smell like Blue Turtle?"

Bam blinked. "Smell?" He scanned the crowd for Ran, but saw no sign of the bluehead. "Rak, that was...he might have been Aguero's little brother."

Rak sniffed. "Brother?"

Bam sat back down, feeling his body lose all sense of strength. "Yeah. Aguero...did mention other siblings. Who knows? There may be more."

Rak was making quick work of the food and drink Ran had not touched. "But he smells like him!"

Bam rolled his eyes. "Because they most likely have the same father, Rak, and the same blood." How Eduan managed to screw around was beyond him, and a thought he did not want to further investigate.

Rak seemed to thoughtfully ponder his words before shrugging. "We need to hunt down Blue Turtle's missing sister." He pointed a fork at Bam, the small utensil clutched between two clawed fingers. "But the Little Turtle, he smells like Blue Turtle."

Bam wouldn't look at him. If he spoke, his voice would break, and his burning eyes would release his tears. He couldn't have that, couldn't lose his composure in public.

Seven years. How was it that the loss of one person could affect him so much? Haunt him for so long?

His fists clenched. First, he will do what Aguero could not, and find Kisea. Then, he was going to climb to the top of the Tower and shake it to the ground until he rooted up the ones who had killed Aguero.

xXx

Khun kept his eyes closed as the fingers ran through his hair. The soothing motion relaxed the muscles in his neck. The temptation to fall asleep grew stronger with each passing minute.

He stirred, pulling away and breaking the spell. But a cold hand gripped his neck, and he froze.

"I'm not done."

Khun gave no sign of acknowledgement, but he did not move away as the fingers continued to caress his hair. But the calm he once felt was now replaced with a hot and burning annoyance.

"Fine," he said, voice cold. "But I'm working." He summoned his lighthouse, fingers itching to type and re-read the status for the upcoming test.

The soothing hands in his hair became harsh. His head was pulled back, the muscles in his neck screaming in protest from the sudden movement. A pair of blue eyes glared at him. Khun braced his arms to keep from falling, but he met the glare, scowling right back. Another hand found its way to his throat, and Khun could imagine those small fingers dancing around his skin, poking and prying for a weakness. Those fingers could dig into his flesh, wield a knife and slit his throat.

Or, if she so desired, snap his neck.

"Kisea," he warned. His fingers flexed, ice coating his nails.

The hands released his hair as Kisea sighed. "I wanted to braid your hair," she grumbled.

Khun could only grunt as Kisea moved from behind him to lean into his side, her presence intrusive and weighing him down.

His lighthouse lit up. Khun's eyes scanned the information presented to him while he gathered his hair up and tied it in a ponytail. It was longer than he would have liked, but Kisea liked to play with it, so he let it grow.

"I don't really like this new team," Kisea murmured. She settled her head on his lap. "The white haired one looks at you too much."

"Apple and Micheal are good at what they do," Khun said, disinterested. He had heard enough of her complaints about the new team. "Besides, FUG approves of them."

He really could care less about what FUG did or did not approve of. He would use whatever was at his disposal to reach wherever Maria was.

His eyes strayed from the Lighthouse to where Kisea was. Her gaze was disinterested as she played with the thread from her sleeves, her head still on his lap.

Even now, he still strove to stay true to his promise, to find a home far away, and to provide Kisea with a comfortable life. A life away from these bastards who tarnished her mind, broke, and used her.

But there was a limit to how much he could rebel. Even after seven years, he still remembered Kisea's threat. His obedience for the lives of his...of his former companions.

He tried not to think about them too much. Tried not to think about the others and the companionship he had enjoyed. But most of all, he tried not to think about the hurt he felt when he saw Bam-no, Jue Viole Grace.

He didn't expect Bam's absence to hurt him so much. The older boy had left a firm imprint in his heart.

"We don't really need them," Kisea murmured. She looked up at him, eyes sharp as she smiled. "You only need me." Her hand found his, tracing the scars the fire and acid left from their first encounter.

His arms and hands still burned from the painful memory. The pink scars stood out against his pale skin, and when he was cold, which was often, it turned to a sickly purple. The scars pulsed and moved with every movement, like worms forever trapped in his body.

He pulled his hand away from hers, right as the door to their bedroom opened.

Ran poked his head in, blue eyes landing on Kisea, and frowning. "A.A, can I talk to you?"

Khun lifted his knee, expertly depositing Kisea off of his lap. "Yes, I have been meaning to speak with you anyway about the upcoming test and your performance." He gave Ran a look. "Tell Novick that he needs to get rid of those awful t-shirts."

Ran rolled his eyes. "Sure. But I need to talk to you alone." He was purposefully avoiding Kisea's gaze, but his mouth was twitching upward in a haughty expression.

Kisea entwined her fingers with Khun's. "I stay by his side at all times."

"That's disgusting," Ran scoffed. "He does not require your presence at all times. It's sickening."

"Enough," Khun sighed. He moved off of the bed. "Kisea, go. I'll talk to you later." He pointedly looked at her, daring her to disobey. Kisea met his stare, and he felt his fingers grow cold once more.

But she smiled and slipped off of the bed. Her shoulder brushed against his before she left the room, and Khun found that he could breathe again.

He both loved and feared his sister. Thus, his life was insanely complicated

"What did you want to talk about?" Khun asked. He sat down in one of the chairs. "You don't normally seek me out for casual chit-chat."

Ran remained standing, and Khun was once again searching for the similarities between him and Mascheny. Aside from the blue hair and eyes, there was nothing else that claimed them as blood siblings.

"I saw that boy when I was out," Ran said. "Jue Viole Grace." He hesitated. "And that big alligator friend of yours. I think he tried to eat me."

Khun couldn't breathe. His eyes went wide, a moment of weakness displayed before Ran. "What?"

"He saw me," Ran said. He shrugged. "We talked. He didn't mention you."

Khun clenched his fists, resisting the urge to cover his face with his hands. He schooled his expression, hiding his emotions. For years he had assumed that Bam...no, Viole would have been floors ahead of them. He had monitored his old team's progress with anticipation and dread, fearful that any action he took would be an excuse for FUG to kill them. "I would have thought that he would have been floors above us."

"Maybe he fell behind," Ran answered. "But I have a feeling that if I know he's here, the others will too."

Khun nodded, his stiff muscles moving. "Thank you for letting me know." He nodded to the door. "Do me a favor and try to keep Kisea out. I have a lot of work to do." He knew Ran could only do so much against Kisea, but it was always best to ask.

Ran shot him an unreadable look, but nodded anyway. When the bedroom door shut, Khun slowly counted to 5 before leaping from the seat and locking the bedroom door.

His breathing came out fast, robbing him of precious air. His fingers trembled, and his knees gave out. Sickness washed over him, but hadn't eaten in days, so his stomach could only painfully clench.

He stumbled to the empty closet, the darkness enveloping him once the door closed, and he finally collapsed to the scratchy carpet. He squeezed his eyes shut, hands grabbing at the strands of his hair.

Bam was here. Bam and Rak. They were on the same floor, so close to him and to danger. The more he tried to fight against those thoughts, the stronger his horrifying imaginations became.

His conflicting feelings clashed within him. He both feared and missed Bam...Jue Viole Grace, whoever he was. He was his first friend. Supposedly. Someone from outside of the family who had extended a helping hand to him when he needed it.

Until Bam's true identity was revealed to him.

Khun had gone over that moment so many times. He had nightmares about it and vivid recollections. Sometimes, Bam's horrified expression from that moment would morph into hatred and anger when he looked at Khun. In his worst nightmares, nothing and no one could stop Bam from killing Khun in that testing area.

He mulled over Bam's intentions, wondering what his true purpose for befriending a Khun was. He came up with many different scenarios, but he always returned to that one moment.

"I really wanted to be your teammate. I still want to be your teammate. You...you are vulnerable."

He wondered if Bam still felt the same, when Hansung uncovered his masquerade and he now had no reason to continue pretending.

Khun choked, bringing his fist up to his mouth to control his breathing. He remained in the darkness until he regained his composure.

xXx

"You weren't kidding when you said you could climb really fast."

Bam laughed at Shibisu's comment, feeling his heart grow lighter with each second he spent in the presence of his friend. The embrace was warm and just what Bam needed. Hatz stood to the side and shook Bam's hand. Bam would have moved in for a hug with the swordsman if it weren't for Rak trying to push his way through the narrow door.

"Have some respect for your leader! Let me through!" Rak stormed down the hall, bellowing. "Where is the feast in my honor? My Black Turtle is starving!"

"Mr. Crocodile, we just ate!" Somehow, Miseng had found a way to climb on Bam's back, her small arms wrapped around his neck.

Shibisu whistled as everyone entered the dorms. "I hope we have enough room for our teams."

"We also have a place to stay," Bam stated, letting Miseng slide down. "No need to make accommodations." He just really needed to see the old group again now that they had caught up. He resisted the urge to scan the room for a flash of blue.

He was really rattled after seeing Ran.

An arm wrapped around Bam's shoulder. "No way!" Wangnan exclaimed. "We are not leaving until we meet Endorsi! I'm this close to meeting a real princess!"

Shibisu scratched the back of his neck. "Uh, well, she's not here right now…"

"That's fine!" Wangnan strode into the sitting area where Prince seemed to be making himself at home. "We'll wait."

Bam chuckled at Shibisu's forlorn look. Clapping the Scout on the back, he grinned. "They've heard so much about you guys. They're honored to be in your presence. Really."

Shibisu sighed. "Yeah, yeah." He nodded to the kitchen. "Let's grab some grub and talk. You're probably hungry."

The kitchen was nicely spaced, unlike the narrow hallways in the building. Rak would pitch a fit, but he would have to use his smaller size if he wanted to maneuver around.

"So what did you and Rak find when you were exploring the lower levels?" Shibisu asked, handing Bam a glass of juice.

Bam leaned against the counter with a disappointed frown. "Nothing. We thought we had heard a rumor of a female Khun in the area. But that's all it was. A rumor." The bitterness in his voice weighed him down, years of false leads and broken hope finally taking its toll on him.

Shibisu frowned. "I'm sorry. I know you spent a lot of time on those floors looking for her." He sat in a chair with a groan. "Those Khun bastards, if there really are any, sure know how to remain hidden."

"They'd have to if they want to remain alive."

Shibisu shook his head. "When you served the king, how would you find them?"

"It was a lot easier when they were out in the open blatantly defying the king," Bam answered, uneasiness twisting in his gut. "But after the princess selection, the Khun family seemed to disappear."

"But," he continued. "I did come across something interesting. I saw another Khun. A boy. Rak said he smelled...he smelled like Aguero."

Shibisu frowned. "A Khun boy is out in the open? Does he have a death wish?"

"No, I think he's just that confident." Bam withdrew his pocket. "I'm sending you the information I gathered on him, but the brief version is that he is identified as Princess Mascheny's brother, Ran Mascheny Khun."

Shibisu nearly fell out of his seat. "She has a brother? Like a full on blood brother? Same mom, same dad?" At Bam's nod, Shibisu gaped. "How does that even work? How's the kid still alive?"

"If Mascheny is pulling some strings, then the king must approve of his existence, or I would not have come across him." Bam folded his hands. "It also means that Mascheny is at work here if he's active."

Shibisu narrowed his eyes. "What could her purpose be?"

"I have a few guesses," Bam answered. "She could be trying to reclaim the Yellow May from Anaak. Or…" he trailed off, "she's looking for someone."

Shibisu was a quick thinker. He was often underestimated, but Shibisu had been the one to lead this team to victory in Bam's absence. They were alive and far ahead with Shibisu's direction. It was Shibisu who placed Endorsi and Anaak in important positions during the tests, and Shibisu who cataloged their strengths and weaknesses.

Shibisu narrowed his eyes. "Why would she be looking for Kisea?"

"I have no idea, but I don't trust her. Out of all the princesses, I never wanted any dealings with her." He pushed his chair back. "But Kisea must be alive if Mascheny sent Ran here. I only wonder what team she has placed her beloved brother on."

Bam refused to believe that Kisea's disappearance meant her death. If she was just as resourceful as her brother, then she was just as good at hiding.

And Bam had spent seven years looking for her.

Bam leaned forward. "I did receive a tip," he said slowly, "that we will have to make it to the Workshop Battle if we wish to find what we seek."

Shibisu's eyes bugged out. "Seriously?" He sank back. "Oh man. You know, I was really hoping to avoid that."

Bam shrugged. "Which is why we have been working really hard to reach you guys. With our team-up, we will do fine."

"You mean you will do fine," Shibisu grumbled.

Bam smirked. "Don't underestimate yourself, Isu."

"Aw shadup." Shibisu sighed. "Who tipped you?"

Bam frowned. "A certain red-haired friend." It had been Hwaryun's last message to him, and the source of his discontent with her.

Shibisu perked up, interested. "She's on the move?"

"She's always on the move. My worry is," here, Bam hesitated, "that my...father might be involved. Many different characters are interested in the Workshop battle: FUG, Wolkasong, even some of the king's soldiers. I would have liked to avoid it at all cost."

Shibisu suddenly looked apprehensive. "Why would we need to participate in the Workshop battle?"

"For FUG's benefit, most likely."

Shibisu leaned forward. "Can't you just...I don't know, call up your dad and get him to tell FUG to lay off? I mean, we have a lot on our plate to deal with. There was another scuffle between Anaak and unknown family members a few weeks ago, and it had Endorsi worried." He scoffed. "Not that she'll say anything. But between looking for Kisea and dodging unfriendly adversaries...I really don't want to get mixed up with FUG on top of it all."

Bam sighed. "Believe me, I am doing all that I can to avoid FUG. But reaching out to my father would be the exact opposite of that."

"He wants you to take on the family business, huh?"

"Shibisu," Bam warned, though there was no malice in his tone.

"I get it, I get it." He held his hands up in surrender. "We're done talking about 'the daddy-dearest who shall not be named'." He folded his hands. "But in all seriousness, is it truly unavoidable?"

Bam grimaced. "There is one aspect that I hope is not true. The reason Kisea may have managed to stay hidden for so long could be because of FUG."

Shibisu's eyes widened. "What? Why?"

"They are fanatics to both my father and Eduan. There were even whispers of other family leaders involved. If I have been unable to locate Kisea, then it may be because her father's followers are keeping her hidden."

Shibisu looked ill. "If that's the case…" and his tone suggested he felt the same as Bam did about the idea, "then what can we do?"

"We continue looking," Bam replied. "If she is mixed up with FUG, then we might catch wind of her as the Workshop Battle approaches."

Shibisu frowned. "Hey, didn't you have some reservations about...you know...Hansung Yu?"

"Yep."

Shibisu's frown deepened. "And didn't you say he was a part of…?"

"Yep," Bam repeated, finishing his drink.

Shibisu's eyes narrowed as he came to a realization Bam had been carrying with him for months. "Then wouldn't that mean Kisea is…?"

"Could be."

Hansung. Kisea. FUG. Aguero's death. Bam knew better than to ignore that many coincidences. And if Kisea had anything to do with her brother's demise...well, Bam would hold off on his judgement until he dragged the answers out of her.

xXx

The night sky held no stars tonight. Bam much rather preferred the black void in the sky. At least then there was no false beauty. He had grown up with the stories his mother would tell him of the outside world, of the real stars, wind, sky and sun. She even described the moon in vivid detail, a beautiful cut of rock suspended in the sky, providing a cold yet merciful light with its hidden glow.

The moon in the Tower had been taken down. Only the oldest of residents could recall what the fake moon had looked like. The moon was the sign of the Khun family. Bam could still recall, as a small child, when Jahad had ordered its destruction when Eduan betrayed the families.

Bam wondered what life would have been like if Eduan and his father had been more subtle in their treachery, taking a page from his mother's book. Would he have met Aguero? Would he still be alive?

He shook those thoughts away, right as a soft knock on the balcony doors drew his attention.

Anaak's yellow eyes contained a hidden glow in the dark. She observed him with thoughtfulness, the wariness in her gaze long gone. It had taken years for her to fully trust him, and Bam had strived to earn that trust. Once she learned that his Jue Viole Grace persona meant her no harm, the walls she had built slowly lowered, if only because they were united in their shared grief.

Anaak stood by his side, observing the courtyard below. "Shibisu turned in for the night."

Bam chuckled. "Yeah, I could hear him wrangling Miseng and Prince in for bed." Shibisu had taken it upon himself to become the 'father' of the group in the face of the younger members. Apparently, establishing a bedtime ritual was part of the agenda.

"He explained to the team what had happened," Anaak continued, and Bam resisted the urge to sigh. Of course Anaak was not one for small talk. Straight to the point as usual. "About your suspicions."

Bam folded his arms. "It's best to be on the same page."

"What about this new Khun kid?" Anaak fixed him with a stare. "Do you think he could give us some information?"

"Anaak," Bam started. "Ran may not be able to provide us with much information. He is Mascheny's brother and therefore under the king's watchful gaze. He is towing the line between Jahaad and FUG." He pinched the bridge of his nose. "He might rather instigate a fight with us than help us."

Anaak scoffed. "So family means nothing to the Khuns."

Bam felt a bitter pang in his chest. "Only when you enter the Tower." It had been obvious to him that Aguero had loved his sisters. He couldn't help but think about Ran, growing up in the Tower with only Mascheny to rely on.

He blinked as a startled thought occurred to him. How young was Ran exactly? What was Mascheny using him for?

He sighed. This Tower was hungry and continued to seek the children of Khun to devour.

xXx

Khun knew that the illusion of being alone was just that; an illusion.

Still, he could try and fool himself into believing that this walk down the streets was between himself and the wind. If it wasn't Kisea sticking by his side, it was some FUG agent. Today, there was no Kisea. She was summoned to a FUG meeting, and she was told more than he ever was, and she told him even less.

But he wasn't in the mood to play any games. Not tonight.

He sighed. "You're not even really trying, Ran."

Ran stepped out of the shadows. "Because there's no reason to. You're not being followed now because when you disappeared, I told them I would find you."

Khun hummed. He doubted that. There were bound to be some new agents around, watching them both right now. But it was fine, he had already completed his business. The weight of the hidden dagger strapped to his thigh was proof of that.

The shop Khun was at was still busy, and as Ran sat next to him, Khun found himself distracted.

"Were you really that bothered? About Viole's presence?" Ran asked.

Khun closed his eyes for a brief second. "His arrival is a small hiccup and leaves me somewhat limited. But he is just a mere Regular."

Bam being here would make things tricky. He couldn't imagine what would happen should they compete in the same test, or even come across each other on the streets. But Khun still intended to go forward with his plans. He just needed to continue to avoid Bam for the time being.

"I'm surprised he didn't turn me in when he saw me," Ran commented.

Khun was also slightly curious about that as well. Jue Viole Grace had not served the king in years, mostly because there had been no reason to call him back to fight. There were no Khuns or Irregulars.

Khun couldn't dare think that it was something else. Something more meaningful.

"He must have recognized you in the courts," Khun supplied.

"Mascheny never permitted me in court."

"Interesting, isn't it?" Khun shut his lighthouse down. "So tell me, dear brother, what reason does our sister have for sending you here? I know she has had her differences with FUG, and that her appearance to the king matters, so why send you?"

Ran shifted. "Is it that odd for you to think that we are genuinely concerned?"

Khun smiled, all teeth. "Is there really such a thing?"

Ran scoffed. "Whatever."

Khun at first found it odd Ran was so attentive to him. That was until he found out that Mascheny had not sent him to spy, but that Ran had come on his own accord.

"What are you scheming?" Ran asked, leaning forward and eyeing him suspiciously.

Khun pushed his hair back. "It's nothing for you to worry about, Ran."

He felt like he was just barely grasping how messed up his family was.

"I lied, you know," Ran said.

Khun blinked. "What?"

"Bam...he was affected when I mentioned you."

Khun narrowed his eyes. "You mentioned-?"

"He brought it up," Ran defended. "But if anything, he seems torn up-"

"Ran," Khun interrupted. "Don't ever associate with Viole. If you see him in the crowd, you walk away."

Ran narrowed his eyes. "If he wanted to kill me-"

"That's not the issue. FUG will take any excuse to throw you out. I need you within FUG. I can't do that if you are caught associating with Viole."

"From what I understand, they idolize him."

"And you can be traced back to me," Khun stated. "They would rather throw you out to keep my existence hidden than have Bam uncover their deceit."

"You said his name this time."

Khun remained silent. He could feel the clock ticking down the seconds before FUG's agents descended on them. He would rather return to their rooms on his own terms than be dragged away. With a finality, he stood up, even as Ran glared up at him.

"You don't have to stay," Ran argued. "You can flee. I have seen you give up multiple opportunities to run. And you gave it all up because of her!"

"You know why I can't leave."

"Why? Because of your friends? Have you forgotten who Jue Viole Grace is? He's killed dozens of our siblings! The princesses can protect themselves and your companions, so why stay?"

"Why do you care so much?" Khun growled.

Ran's eyes seemed to glow with a hidden electricity. So many emotions spasmed across his face. He looked ready to answer, ready to unleash the torrent he had held back.

"My lord." A voice hissed in Khun's ear, and he suppressed a shiver.

"You shouldn't be out so late at night." Micheal stood beside him, a serene smile on his unchanging face. "Your sister will worry."

"I was just leaving," Khun said stiffly. He turned his back on Ran and left the shop. FUG's hidden agents emerged and flanked him, leaving him with no place to go but forward.

They walked him all the way to his room, their intrusive presence clinging to him with an oily possessiveness. Khun kept his expression blank, just as his sister would practice. By the time the door closed behind him, he allowed himself a small moment of weakness to release a shuddering breath.

There was another presence in his room. Khun stepped forward, dropping his coat on the floor. He was meticulous with removing his daggers, placing them on the table with care. The figure in his bed did not stir at the small sounds.

The soft, yet plain, nightclothes he wore made him feel lighter despite the sudden weight he felt settling in his chest. He pulled at the hair tie, blue hair cascading down his shoulders.

He hated it. Hated how he was being morphed into this different person. Hated how he was being forced to kill. He already had the blood of another on his hands. Now he was being used as a tool. A weapon. Just like Utau had been used.

Just like Kisea was being used.

He would not wait for FUG to toss them aside like Utau had been. Their sister had not perished for her siblings to live this cut-throat life.

Khun's footsteps were soft and silent as he sat down on the edge of the bed. His little sister's face was peaceful for once, and he could fool himself into believing that there was no FUG, no death, and no Tower.

He lay beside her, holding her. Kisea moved with a start, eyes flashing open. Khun grinned down at her. There was a time when she proved a challenge for him, but even now, he proved himself better than her.

He stroked her hair, untangling the knots. Kisea remained stiff and still. Finally, she lowered her head on his lap. She did not fully relax, not like when they were small children alone in the cave with their sister watching from afar.

He would not let this hopelessness choke him. He may be alone in this endeavor, but he would drag them out of this situation, even if it meant he had to drag Kisea by the hair.

Khun eased back, snuggling into the pillows. He began to hum, low and soft, not at all like the soft timber he had grown up hearing from his sister.

Kisea rested her head on his chest, feeling the rhythm as he continued to hum. His hand stayed on her head, yet he had ceased stroking her hair.

His shirt grew damp as Kisea's silent tears fell.

A/N: Soooo, I have kind of forgotten a lot about what's canon and what's not. I have read way too many fanfiction stories (glorious, by the way) and it has been a while since I have reread Tower of God. So things in this story might be a bit wonky and out of place, and I apologize.

And I just now realized that it's kind of hard to write Khun like this because he has no ambition to climb the Tower to defeat his dad. Even here, he has no desire to find Maria. He just wants to find a home with Kisea. I feel like I've written him like a simple man and I'm trying to make him so devious and sinister. Anyway, I felt like this chapter was really fighting with me.

Also, help! I realize that this particular thread has become its own story. I am debating on whether I should continue the thread here in Trials of a God and also create this as a separate story. So I have two options here.

1. Stop posting this story on Trials of a God and make it its own story.

2. Continue posting this story on Trials of a God and also make it it's own story, so there would be two copies here.

What do you think?