"Dr. Suzuki! We need you!" The nurse's voice was calling her name as the break room lights came on.
The doctor sighed and got up, going to follow the nurse.
"Stage Three patient. Detective Ryon Ashikara. He was caught in a bombing. Ambulance is pulling up right now. He has coded twice according to the EMTs."
She nodded and prepared herself to check him over.
The gurney burst through the doors, one EMT straddling it as he did chest compressions. The other was using an AMBU bag to force air into the man's lungs.
The doctor quickly got to work trying to save the man's life.
His eyes suddenly flew open, wild and disoriented.
"Shh, it's alright. Just relax, you're safe," she said gently.
Green orbs fixed on her face, then he nodded slowly.
She continued working, occasionally saying reassuring things to help keep him calm.
He stayed focused on her for a while, then began to blink slowly as he fought unconsciousness.
"You can sleep, everything will be okay," she said softly.
He tried to smile, but passed out.
The doctor finally stabilized him and made sure everything was bandaged and taken care of before heading to check on other patients.
Later, she entered his room to check and see how he was doing.
He looked up from pulling out the IV. He didn't blink, the green eyes watching her intently.
"You know you kind of need the IV to help get you better."
"They'll find me. I can't stay here." He winced and brushed his hair out of his eyes.
"Who will find you? You're safe here."
"I'm not safe anywhere.." He struggled to stand, agony on his face. "Can't risk innocents."
"Just relax, you need to heal before you can go. Don't worry."
He shook his head. "They'll blow everyone up just to get me..I can't.." He doubled over, his breath hitching.
She went to his side and put a hand on him, "Rest."
He looked up at her. "Do you not care about the lives here?"
"I do. Yours included. Now rest."
He pouted slightly, then sighed. "If I don't?"
"I hope she puts you in a straitjacket and drugs you until you sleep for a month." A voice said from the corner of the darkened room.
"Bite me, Ryu."
"Scales taste lousy."
She sighed and shook her head, pulling out a syringe and sticking it into Ryon's arm.
He gave her a look of betrayal before he sagged unconscious.
The unseen voice snickered.
She gently laid him back down and reattached the IV. "Let me know if he tries to leave again."
"Will do." The voice paused. "Though he's not wrong about this hospital being in danger."
"What kind of danger exactly?"
"There are people who want to capture us. Barring that, they want us dead. They almost succeeded earlier."
She nodded, "I'll keep an eye out, and don't worry. I'll make sure you guys are safe while you're here."
"Can I ask a favor? I don't want to get you in trouble though."
"What's up?"
"Do you have another of those?"
"Syringe full of drugs, you mean?"
"Yes."
She reached into her pocket and held it out.
There was a rustling sound, then a young man emerged. His blonde hair was singed, as were the jet black wings he sported. His clothes were streaked with ash, red burns evident under black edged holes. He reached out a pale hand.
She looked him over for a minute, eyes narrowing. She then shook her head and handed him the syringe. She held a hand out to both of the men and shot red light into them, their wounds healing rapidly.
Ryu went pale. "You're.."
"What?"
"You're Fallen."
Her eyes darkened but she stayed quiet.
He began to tremble. "I meant no disrespect.."
She sighed, "Don't worry about it.."
He knelt on one knee. "I apologize, elder." He bent his head. "I accept reprimand, although you should not have healed me."
She shook her head, "Get up."
He didn't move, swaying slowly. "I don't think I can."
She gently helped him into a chair.
He took a slow breath, shaky hands uncapping the syringe. "Just a few hours and we will disappear." He struggled to inject the medicine.
She took it from him, "Don't worry, just rest." she injected it for him.
"You..are too kind." His dark eyes slid closed.
She sighed and headed out of the room to check on her other patients. She continually checked on them though, making sure everything was alright.
"Dr. Aiya Suzuki?" A dark suited man flashed a government badge. "May I have a word?"
She raised an eyebrow but nodded and led him to her office.
"You had a patient last night come in, victim of a bombing. Is that correct?"
"I'm not exactly allowed to discuss my patients.. Is there a problem?"
"What is his current status and room number if you please? He is a dangerous fugitive."
"Last I checked he was stable. I'll go check my charts and see what room he is in, I'll be right back." She headed out of the room, slipping into the room Ryon and Ryu were in.
"He's here already, isn't he?" Ryu was awake and on edge.
"Do you have a place to go?"
"Smoldering wreckage count?" Ryon answered sarcastically as he came awake.
She sighed and pulled out a piece of paper and scribbled on it before handing it and a key to Ryu, "Go there."
His eyes narrowed for an instant, then he nodded.
Ryon pulled the IV out and opened the window. "You strong enough?"
Ryu took a deep breath. "You'll find out quick if I'm not." His wings manifested, still healing.
"I'll see you later and take care of this guy for now." She slid out of the room, plastering a frown on her face. She went back to her office and sighed, "I don't know where he went. Last I had checked, he was asleep after I gave him some medicine. Now, the room is empty. If he's dangerous, should I be worried about myself or my staff?"
The man scowled and rose from the chair. "Yes. He's a killer. Was there anyone who visited him?"
"Not that I saw."
A look of triumph crossed his face briefly, then he schooled his features. "Thank you, Dr. If he returns, please contact me from a place of safety." He handed her a card, then left the office.
She sat down and stared at the card a moment, before putting it in her desk drawer. She looked at the time and went to finish her rounds before heading out for the day. Making sure no one followed her, she headed to the house she had given them a key to.
A blast of lightning missed her by inches as she opened the door.
She raised an eyebrow before entering and shutting the door behind her.
"Ryu, it's her! Stand down." Ryon appeared, looking apologetic. "Sorry about him."
She shook her head and headed inside a bit more, then looked at them, "Alright, I'm helping you out, so tell me what's going on and why you have people after you."
"We exist." Ryon tousled his hair with a frown. "He's chased us ever since we escaped from the facility."
"Facility?"
"Our so called 'protection'. Actually a testing facility to design weapons to kill us." Ryu stood unsteadily. "We're not human. Not entirely."
"That's all?"
Ryon chuckled humorlessly. "Not enough?"
"So how'd you end up at the facility in the first place?"
"I was discovered during a medical checkup at the station." Ryon exchanged glances with Ryu, who shrugged weakly. "He was born there."
"And what are you?" She looked at Ryon.
He took a deep breath, then his skin rippled. Rainbow scales appeared on his hands and neck, and framed his face at the temples and jawline. His eyes glittered as he watched her reaction.
"Merman?" She raised an eyebrow.
"You know of us?" He looked at her in surprise.
"I know of a lot of things," she stated in response.
"Ryon, she's Fallen." Ryusei said quietly from the corner. "Possibly fullblood."
She sighed and nodded.
Ryon's eyes went wide. "That's how..you healed me. Why?"
"Well, I am a doctor, healing people is kind of what I do. But after seeing him, I figured it'd be alright if I helped a little extra without you freaking out."
Ryon gave her a shy smile. "I'm less worried now. How about you?" He turned to look at Ryu, losing the smile as the man collapsed. "Shit!"
Aiya went and lifted him, placing him on the couch before sending red healing light into him.
"The bomb hit him with some kind of beam before it exploded." Ryon watched anxiously. "He said he was fine, called the ambulance for me. Don't let him die, please."
Aiya nodded quietly and continued trying to heal him.
"I'm..alright. Stop panicking and drink your water." Ryu's eyes opened and glared at Ryon.
Aiya gave a small chuckle but continued focusing light into him to make sure he was really okay.
"You should not waste your power on me." He turned his gaze to her.
"Shut up, bat boy." Ryon muttered as he inhaled a water bottle from the several stacked on the table.
Aiya worked a bit longer before stepping away. "No one knows about this place, so you can hang out here for a while."
Ryon's scales glittered in the light as he shook his head. "We can't put you in any more jeopardy. If Nazikara finds out what you are, he'll try to grab you too. We're better off disappearing."
"This place isn't even under the name I go by. He can't trace it, it's a safehouse. If I just don't come back, he won't be able to find you here."
Ryu snickered quietly at Ryon's crestfallen face. "I knew it, fishboy."
Aiya raised an eyebrow at them.
"He's hot for doctor." Ryu tried to contain his laughter as Ryon turned red and scowled.
She looked down, "Not a good idea. You'll be safer if you just forget about me." She headed toward the door, "My number is on the fridge if you do need more supplies or anything. I'll have them sent over."
Ryon raced past her out the door as Ryu sighed. "Shit. I fucked up again."
She moved to Ryon's side in the blink of an eye, grabbing onto his arm, "You're not safe out here. Get back inside."
"I don't care. I don't even know why I'm trying anymore. I'll never have a normal life, so why not just give up?" He stared at the scenery sadly.
"I know how you feel.. but sometimes you just have to deal with what you're given. You'll find a new normal. Plus, you'll likely outlive the person after you so you can start fresh when he's gone."
"There will just be another. We've been on the run for ten years. We get to a new town, get established and bam! They find us and we have to disappear. I could escape by returning to the water, but I can't leave Ryu."
"You guys can rest here for a while. Not have to run."
"But not forever." His eyes were exhausted as he turned to her. "I'm so tired. Why can't they just leave us alone?"
"Who says you can't stay here forever? And if it's that much of a problem, I'll take care of this guy that's after you."
"It's the government! You can't..they'll hurt you." He dropped his eyes and wrapped his arms around himself. "Would you do something for me?"
"I've been hidden long enough. If I knew what they were doing sooner, I'd have been after them years ago." She sighed, "What is it?"
"Take care of Ryu? Help him? He's clueless about living outside and has a tendency to get in trouble because of it."
"You take care of Ryu. Stay here and just let me handle things."
He shook his head. "You've done enough for me." His eyes looked at her and a soft smile crossed his lips. "Ryu isn't wrong. I would have enjoyed trying to get a date." He started to walk away without another glance.
She stood there for a moment before grabbing his arm and pulling him around. She gently pressed her lips to his for a few moments then backed up, her breathing speeding up, "I'm sorry.. I shouldn't have.."
"I'm not complaining. That will be a nice memory." He chuckled softly.
"You don't understand.." she was shaking slightly.
"Hey, it's okay. It was just a kiss. Nothing happened. You're safe from whatever you're hiding from." He smiled slightly, raising her chin. "Just be careful. My last request." He kissed her this time, a faint brush of lips and then he was running down the street.
She searched her pockets, finding a syringe. Using her speed, she followed quickly, injecting it into him and watching him drop. She carried him back to the house before disappearing out the door.
Ryu sighed and shook his head, dropping his face into his hands.
Aiya did some research and found the facility they were talking about. She waited until nighttime, then snuck inside to see if there was anyone needing to be freed. After that, she focused her powers and set the building ablaze.
"Why is a Fallen destroying my target?"
She looked around for the voice.
Scales rippled around a set of bright blue eyes. He was swinging his legs as he sat on the top of a nearby building, a cocky smirk on his face as he waved a hand.
"Doesn't matter."
"It does when that target is my last chance to find someone." He jumped down as his voice hardened.
She looked him over carefully.
He was a little taller than Ryon, but the similarities were unmistakable.
She nodded, "I know where to find him."
"Who?" He tensed, his eyes wary.
"Ryon."
His face darkened. "How do you know him? If you've hurt him, I'll-"
"Shh, calm down. I just met him. I'm a doctor and I've been helping him."
"Is he alright?" The man's voice grew alarmed.
"Don't worry." She glanced at her watch. "He should be safe still. I gave him enough drugs he'll be asleep til morning."
"Causing trouble again?" His lips quirked up slightly, then he chuckled. "You can stop hiding now. She won't fry you."
"You're quite confident of that, are you?" A young man stepped out of the shadows, watching her intently.
"Ryon was insisting on leaving the safehouse I offered them, so I drugged him and figured I'd take care of his problems for him."
"Why would a Fallen help merpeople?" The new arrival cocked his head. "Why would a Fallen help anyone?"
"First off, the one Ryon is with isn't a merman. Secondly, again, doctor. I help people for a living. I don't have to explain my choices to you."
He blinked, but his expression didn't change. "So your brother is with him. This makes it difficult."
"Dammit, Yuto. I thought we'd settled that." The merman glared.
"I merely stopped arguing with you since it gets us nowhere. You know my mission. It has not changed." Yuto straightened and looked at Aiya. "Where is this safehouse?"
"Tell me your mission first."
"What importance is it to you? Does not concern one such as yourself."
She shrugged, "Then I'm not telling you."
He gave a tiny smile. "My mission is to eliminate the Nephilim."
"Then I'm definitely not telling where they are."
"I do not need your cooperation. It would however be much easier on you." His eyes began to glow as he stared at her.
"I help all people, nephilim included. I'm not putting him in danger." She took a defensive stance.
"I will have the information. Even if I must damage your mind to do it." He stepped closer.
She shook her head, "Do whatever you want to me, but you won't find them."
"Knock it off Yuto! This is my first lead in ten years. Don't fuck it up."
Yuto whirled on the merman. "This is my last chance, Yamae! You don't know what's awaiting me if I fail!"
"Is it orders from God or someone else?" Aiya asked quietly.
"God..I think." His eyes had stopped glowing, his shoulders slumped.
"Most that'll happen is you get stuck here," she answered. "Plus, why is God wanting to take out the nephilim anyway?"
"Do you not know what they are?"
"How old are you?" She asked in response.
"Human reckoning?"
"Overall in human years."
"I have existed for one thousand years. This appearance is that of twenty five."
"One thousand?" She raised an eyebrow before sighing, "I know what nephilim are. I still don't see why God wants to take them out."
"They are unnatural. Neither human nor angel, but both."
"They're living people just like those of God's creation. But he only cares about his precious creations, doesn't he?"
"I wouldn't expect a Fallen to understand." He scowled.
"No matter how much you love Him, he'll turn on you eventually. I know plenty of fallen that loved Him too much, and that's why they were kicked out. You'll learn eventually, but until then, I'm not helping you find Ryu."
Yuto looked sad for a moment, then his eyes widened. "Yamae! Get out of here!"
There was the screech of brakes and a spotlight suddenly illuminated their location.
"Capture them!" The voice of the man who'd visited the hospital rang out.
Yuto whirled, raising his hands as his eyes began to glow. "Go find Ryon! I'll keep them busy!" He fired a bolt of lightning at one of the cars.
Aiya closed her eyes a moment then as she opened them, the cars all burst into flame.
The government agents shouted, scrambling backwards.
Nazikara sneered, pulling a strange weapon and throwing it at Yuto. His eyes glowed red as he watched the angel.
Yuto stiffened as the weapon sank prongs into his abdomen, then convulsed and fell. A white substance began pouring out around the prongs, foaming like hot milk.
Yamae screamed Yuto's name.
Aiya worked on removing the device as quickly as possible, sensing someone approaching. She worked as fast as she could, finally getting him free.
Red wings suddenly appeared on her back as she lifted Yuto. She held out a hand and took Yamae's before lifting off the ground. She flew fast but something shot at her and pierced a wing. She continued flying the best she could, taking them to her house. She laid Yuto down and began trying to heal him. After a few minutes she pulled out her phone and called the safehouse's number.
"Yes?" Ryu's voice was quiet and guarded.
She sighed, still forcing energy into Yuto, "Look, things got complicated. The facility is down but Nazikara is still out there. Whenever he wakes, tell Ryon his brother is alive and safe but he's hanging with an angel who's after you, Ryu. I'm not telling them where you are though, so please just stay there and don't leave."
"Angel? Is his name Yuto?" Ryu's voice became frantic.
"Don't worry, he's not going to find you."
"Is he alright?"
Yuto's eyes opened slightly. "Pro..tect him.."
She raised an eyebrow but answered Ryu, "He's a little hurt at the moment but I'm working on helping him.."
"Please.. Save him." Ryu's voice pleaded.
Yuto smiled sadly as he heard the request. "If only.." He whispered before his eyes closed and he went limp under her hand.
She cursed, closing her eyes a moment and gathering as much energy as she could to push into him. She opened her eyes and forced it in rapidly before asking, "I'm confused as all hell. He wanted to eliminate you now you two are acting like you are friends? What the fuck?"
The line was silent for a moment. Then Ryu quietly responded, "He's my brother."
"Damn." She shook her head, continuing to heal Yuto. Red light surrounded him for a few moments before she moved to sit down. "So.. am I supposed to tell him where you are or not?"
"I'll come there. Give me the address."
She did, "Ryon's still asleep, right?"
"Snoring like a small earthquake. He won't wake for a while." The line clicked.
She sat and gathered energy a few minutes before going back to working on Yuto.
"He's dying, isn't he?" Yamae's voice was anguished. "He was protecting me.."
"Just give me some more time and try to relax." She eventually got the wound closed up before standing and swaying.
"Are you alright?" The merman steadied her in concern.
"I'll be fine," she answered before moving to sit in a chair.
"He doesn't really want to destroy Ryu. But he's terrified of losing everything." Yamae brushed Yuto's bangs back as he sat down. "He's already got a black mark for what his father did. And if God discovered his other transgressions, he'd end up so far down the pit you'd need a million years to find him."
She nodded, "If God really ordered him to take out his own brother, God is even worse than I thought.."
"Things are very black and white to Him. No shades of gray, no wrong that isn't done for anything but evil."
"I still can't believe I spent so many years loving Him.. Though he didn't used to be as bad, in my eyes anyway."
"Who doesn't love their father?" Yamae sighed. "Aside from my family, that is."
She sighed and stared at Yuto. "I don't know what I'm going to do. Another restart, I guess, since the government knows of me now."
"Nazikara isn't really with the government. They disavowed him." Yamae looked hesitant, biting his lip.
She unfurled her wings and began checking the damage over, "Why?"
"Because he was developing weapons. Made out of us."
She scowled then began bandaging her wing up.
"He's from the Pit. He's not human."
She growled, "Asshole."
Yamae couldn't help the chuckle.
There was a soft knock at the door.
Aiya got up and cracked it open.
Ryu's worried face met hers.
She opened it further to let him in.
He entered, then froze as he saw Yuto. "What happened?"
"He was hit with something Nazikara had."
The nephilim's eyes glowed, then he recoiled. "Nix.." He bent his head as tears began streaking his face.
"Hey, what's wrong?" She said softly.
Yamae took her arm and led her aside. "Nix is a demon poison. No antidote."
She sighed, "There has to be something we can do."
"No one has ever survived." Yamae forced his voice steady. "High fever burns the victim from the inside until his power self destructs."
Aiya went and took a sample from Yuto before analyzing it under a microscope. She began mixing human medicines and charging it with her powers before injecting it into Yuto.
Ryu stared at her. "What are you doing?"
"Trying to help him."
"You are truly kind. But there is nothing you can do." Ryu rubbed Yuto's hand gently as the angel's head tossed from side to side.
"Just let the medicine have some time to work and we'll see what it does."
The nephilim sighed, then glanced at Yamae. "Good grief, it's like staring at Ryon."
She nodded but her eyes stayed focused on Yuto.
"We will leave as soon as..it's over. You won't have to worry about your life. Nazikara will follow us and leave you in peace." Yamae stated firmly.
She shook her head, "I still think you guys would be safer at the other house. He won't find you there."
"But..we don't want to destroy your life." Yuto's eyes blinked open. "It is..not right."
"Don't worry about me."
The angel smiled slightly. "I was right.."
"About what?"
"You. You still care. You still protect.."
She nodded slowly.
"I..can leave Ryu in your hands." He arched his back, inhaling sharply against the pain.
She sighed and injected him with another dose of medicine.
His eyes closed again as Ryu bit back a sob. "Why? He doesn't even know me, yet he wants to protect me against Him.."
"That's what family does."
Yamae gently clasped Ryu's shoulder. "He knew what he was doing."
Aiya sat down again and continued to watch Yuto.
Moments later, a gold light streamed down from the ceiling and enveloped him. His eyes flew open glowing white and he shook his head. "Please! Don't!"
Ryu began to panic. "What's happening?"
Aiya winced, "He's falling."
Ryu froze. "No…" He covered Yuto with his own body, then screamed as he began to smoke.
Aiya quickly pulled Ryu away, "Shh, he'll be alright."
"I won't let him! He doesn't deserve it!" Ryu fought desperately as Yuto levitated off the couch amid a bright flash.
Aiya shook her head and sighed, moving quickly and flying up to try to stop the process.
The light suddenly blinked out, Yuto falling into her arms.
She gently laid him on the couch and began checking him over.
He was limp and unresponsive, his breathing almost non-existent.
She poured light into him until his breathing evened out in a more steady rhythm.
"Was that flash supposed to happen?" Ryu's voice was shaky.
"I don't know.. We'll have to see how he is when he wakes."
The doorknob began jiggling, making the men tense.
"What now?!" Yamae groaned.
Aiya shook her head, "Stay calm." She went to the door and cracked it open.
"Where the fuck is he?" Ryon was angrily fidgeting.
"Sorry, we've had kind of a long day," she opened the door to allow him in.
"Hospital security is a bitch." He entered the room, then froze. "Yamae?"
The other merman gave him a smile. "Long time no see, you reprobate."
Ryon's head swiveled to look at Aiya. "How?"
"We both had the same idea and ended up meeting."
"I've been looking for you. Missed you by days ten years ago. You're a real pain in the ass." Yamae enveloped his brother in a hug.
"Why? Father will throw you out too." Ryon asked quietly.
"Told him to go to the Pit. He's an asshole and I don't care." Yamae smiled wryly.
Ryon let out a sob, clinging tightly for a moment. When he released Yamae, he saw Yuto and swallowed hard. "What the fuck is he doing here?"
"Well, he was hanging with Yamae then almost died.. Now I'm not sure what is going on, honestly," Aiya admitted.
"He tried to kill us!" Ryon pulled up his shirt to reveal a burn scar. "He almost turned Ryu into a smear on the pavement three years ago! How the hell are you with him?"
Yamae looked down at the floor silently.
Ryu stood and stared defiantly at the angry merman. "He was trying to make it look good!"
Ryon's eyes narrowed.
"He wasn't really trying to kill me. We had to fake it so he wouldn't be punished."
"Why?"
"He's my brother." Ryu sighed as Ryon stumbled backwards in shock. "You got in the way, and I'm sorry you got hurt."
Aiya gently caught Ryon and sat him down before kneeling beside Yuto and checking his vitals again.
His temperature had stabilized and his eyelids were fluttering.
"Hey," she said softly, "Everything will be okay."
"Nazikara..is coming.."
"I'll take care of him."
"Leave me. Protect them." Yuto tried to rise, his eyes glowing again. "I'll buy time."
She shook her head and pushed him back down. "You guys are all going to stay here."
"No! He must not get his hands on any of you! Now let me go!" Yuto struggled against her. "You can't handle him. Now get them out of here!"
She sighed and injected him with something. "Don't tell me what I can't handle. Just let me take care of things."
He stared at her, then passed out.
Ryon started laughing hysterically. "This is just perfect. Guess it's my cue." He stood and headed for the door.
Ryu and Yamae exchanged worried glances, the other merman attempting to grab Ryon and recoiling as an electric shock jolted through him.
Aiya growled, "What part of, 'let me take care of things,' do you not understand?"
Ryon turned his head, his eyes sparking dangerously. "Not your fight."
"It is now, so just sit down, shut up and wait."
He ignored her, walking out of the house.
She quickly caught up to him and grabbed his arm, "Why are you so insistent on not listening?"
"I could ask you the same thing." The smile he gave her was unhinged, electricity crackling over his eyes.
"I'm just trying to help you so you can be safe with your friends. Is that such a bad thing?"
"You were dragged into this. It isn't fair." He gently removed her hand, then kissed her. "I really liked you." He turned as Nazikara appeared.
"Time to go." The demon's eyes flashed as a smile spread over his face.
"Your word they stay safe?" Ryon responded. "Your word or no deal."
"Of course." Nazikara answered, winking at Aiya.
"Alright." Ryon started toward the demon.
"Stop, Ryon. You have people who care about you that you need to stay with," she said quickly.
"This will keep them safe." He glanced back at her. "It's alright."
The demon materialized a rope, tossing it around Ryon and pulling him to Nazikara's side. "Say goodbye, Doctor-san."
She growled, eyes beginning to glow as she began shooting fire at Nazikara.
The demon laughed, batting the flames away. He touched Ryon's forehead and the merman lost consciousness. "You can't wait for me to return, is that it?"
"You're not taking him anywhere," her wings extended and she flew at him quickly.
"You think you can stop me?" A sword flashed at her unprotected torso.
She growled, producing her own sword, lightweight and tinted red. She stabbed out at him as she landed beside him.
He blocked, tossing Ryon to the ground as he advanced on her with a maniacal laugh. "You will be a wonderful addition to my army."
She shook her head and threw a hand out, shooting a burst of red light at him.
He snarled as it burned a hole in his side. "On second thought, I'm going to kill you slowly." He slashed at her.
She tried to dodge but the end of the blade ripped into her. She hissed and stabbed into him roughly.
He gasped, then stumbled backwards. "This isn't over." He vanished in a ripple of black flames.
Aiya slowly bent down and picked Ryon up, carrying him inside. Blood coated her shirt and she slowly tried making it to her room.
Ryu blanched and extended a hand, pink light flowing into her.
She shook her head, "Don't worry about me.. I'll be alright."
"Don't talk." He shook from the strain, finally getting the wound sealed.
"Thanks," she said quietly before going to clean herself up. She came back out and sat down quietly, looking at the four men in the room.
"What the hell was he doing?" Yamae was pacing furiously.
"Ryon? Trying to give himself up, like a dumbass."
Ryu snickered softly. "Once a dumbass, always a dumbass."
Yamae snorted, then glanced at the unconscious merman. "Is he going to be alright?"
"Now, yes? Once he wakes, I might slap him around a bit," Aiya admitted.
That brought full laughter from the nephilim, who bent double. "He's going to get his ass kicked by a girl."
Aiya rolled her eyes but gave him a small smile.
"You drugged me!" Yuto glared at her woozily.
"I do that," she answered with a shrug.
"Where is he?" The angel shakily sat up.
"Gone for now."
"You need to get somewhere safe before he comes back." Yuto carefully stood and looked at them thoughtfully. "I may be able to cloak you for a short time."
"I'm not going anywhere," Aiya stated.
"Do you have a death wish?"
"Doesn't matter, I'm staying and fighting him when he comes back," she said plainly.
"We're not leaving either." Ryu glared at his brother.
"This is my duty. Not yours. I must get rid of Nazikara before he accomplishes his goals. You four will only get in my way."
Aiya rolled her eyes, "And what if you're in my way?"
"You have no reason to fight. You are Fallen, not pledged to protect this world. You should go to your safehouse and take them with you. The demon is my responsibility. It is why I was spared from Falling."
"So just because I'm Fallen, I should run and hide like a fucking coward? I've spent my whole life dedicated to helping protect the people of this world, far longer than you've existed. You, on the other hand, haven't Fallen yet. You still matter. Plus, you have people here who care about you. Just stay with them and stay safe, let me take care of all this." She turned and headed to the door.
A bolt of lightning slammed into the wall beside her.
She ignored it and slipped outside.
The next bolt slammed into her like a freight train, paralyzing her.
She groaned and closed her eyes, trying to push through it.
Yuto calmly grasped her arm. "I'm sorry. You've left me no choice. You are needed here. That's why you were not thrown into the Pit. I am only necessary to remove Nazikara. It is my final task." He touched her forehead with a glowing finger.
She tried to stay awake and argue but soon fell unconscious.
He picked her up and brought her back inside. "Keep her here."
Ryu nodded, fighting tears.
Yuto gave him a smile. "It's alright. I'll always be with you." He turned and walked out the door, spreading his wings and disappearing into the sky.
Aiya groaned as she woke, sitting up and looking around.
Ryon was still unconscious, Yamae and Ryu dozing quietly.
She quietly got up and headed to the kitchen.
"Can I explain?" Ryu's voice was soft as he stood behind her.
"Explain what?"
"Why Yuto is the way he is?"
She sighed, "Alright."
"He was given a job when he was created. He did not agree, but refused to revolt against Him. It went badly and he begged for mercy. It was granted, but he was banished and forbidden to rest. He's in a gray area between full angel and Fallen. If he destroys Nazikara, he will be allowed to die."
She nodded slowly.
Ryu dropped his eyes. "He blames himself for you."
"What do you mean?" she raised an eyebrow.
"He was supposed to return your soul to Him. But he failed and got your lover instead. It's why you were not turned demon. He begged for you to live."
She closed her eyes as she tried to process the information, "He's the angel of death? And God didn't kill Tsuki to spite me...?"
"Your lover pushed you out of the way." Ryu backed away and bowed his head. "I will leave now."
She shook her head, "Stay.. I'm going to go get some air," she headed outside and sat on the steps.
Ryu stared out the window, his hands clenched.
"Give her time. She didn't fry you, so that's a good sign." Yamae hugged him.
Aiya stared at the ground for a long time, feeling numb as she thought about the past.
Yuto stared at the grinning demon across from him. He hefted his sword determinedly, saying a prayer for Aiya's safety before entering the battle.
Eventually, Aiya got up and started walking away from the house.
"Aiya! You can't!" Ryu ran after her. "You have to stay!"
"Why?"
"Yuto ordered me to keep you safe. I can't break my oath." The nephilim took her arm. "Plus, Ryon hasn't woken yet and I'm worried Nazikara did something."
"Don't worry about me," she said quietly before searching her pockets and glancing at the label on a syringe, "Give him this. It should help."
"Aiya..don't go." Ryu pleaded.
"What I believed for the last thousand years was all a lie," tears filled her eyes. "And I'm not even mad at Yuto for it. I just.." she shook her head and turned away.
"He wanted you to hate him. Why he told you he was going to kill me. Said it would be easier this way."
She sighed and took a deep breath, "He's in trouble, someone should probably go check on him."
"This is his fate. We can't change it." Ryu dropped his hand from her arm and took the syringe. "But you deserve to say goodbye." He walked back to the house and disappeared inside.
She stood there a few moments before taking off. After a while, she finally found Yuto.
He lay face down, blood pooled around him. His back was rising and falling erratically.
Nazikara laughed as he swayed. "Not a very good executioner, is he? Can only manage to kill innocents, never his target."
Her sword materialized before she rushed toward Nazikara.
The demon laughed harder. "You're going to throw away the mercy you were shown? You aren't smart enough for my army." He lifted his white coated sword and looked at it. "Pink will look good on this."
She slashed at him rapidly.
He stumbled back, surprised at her ferocity. "Then again, if I wipe your memories.." He charged at her, aiming for her heart.
She managed to block a bit, trying to push the sword away from her but it embedded itself in her abdomen. She let out a growl and ran her sword through his heart instead before stumbling backwards.
He froze, a scream erupting as he began to smoke. Fire flashed, the scream cutting off as he crumbled to ash and blew away.
Aiya knelt beside Yuto, pushing all her energy into him. She forced red light, slowly closing up his wounds, until she finally lost consciousness and collapsed beside him.
His eyes slowly opened, focusing on her. He reached out a hand, white light enveloping her. "Live..and regain what you lost.." The light burrowed into her chest and as it flashed, his hand fell.
Aiya slowly opened her eyes, looking around in shock.
"Welcome back." Ryon gave her a smile.
"How..?"
"My brother restored you. How do you feel?" Ryu asked softly.
"A little sore still.. Where is he?"
"Have your gifts fully returned?" He ignored her question.
"I don't know.. Where is he?"
"It may be a few hours still then. But you will soon be free." He gave her a sad smile as he rose. "May you have a happy life."
"Will you answer the fucking question?"
He clucked his tongue as Ryon laughed quietly. "Is that any way for an angel to speak?"
She growled in response.
"He will be free soon."
She sighed and pushed herself up.
Both men grabbed her arms, then led her to the next room.
Yuto lay comatose, his breathing slow.
"He traded his existence for your restoration. You are no longer Fallen." Ryu said quietly.
She shook her head and began pouring light into him. Her light was now white as it flowed around him.
"It..is my..decision.." Yuto murmured weakly. "Putting things right.."
She closed her eyes and said a silent prayer to God, apologizing for her actions and asking for the power to save him.
A warmth suffused her before dissipating.
"Stop..I.." He winced, his breath hitching. "I want to apologize for what I did..I didn't want to.." He reached a hand toward her. "Say you forgive me..even if it's a lie. Please.." He. began to struggle for air, his eyes dimming rapidly
She continued forcing light into him quickly, "I forgive you."
He gave her a grateful smile, then his eyes slid closed.
Ryu bit back a cry, his body shaking.
Aiya closed her eyes before sending a massive jolt of energy into Yuto's body.
He jerked, then stilled again.
She continued for a while longer before the light dimmed and then vanished.
Ryu composed himself, giving her shoulder a gentle tap. "Thank you for forgiving him."
She nodded slowly.
"Is there somewhere I can bury him?"
She closed her eyes again and gathered a final burst of energy and shot it into him before swaying.
"Woah.. Sit down." Ryon pushed her into a chair.
"You're..impossible to reason with, aren't you?" Yuto said tiredly.
"Sorry."
Yuto rolled his eyes as Ryu chuckled tearily.
She stayed quiet for a moment before standing and slipping out of the room.
Yuto sighed, his mind racing.
When Ryon and his brother had finally said their goodnights and left, he rose from the bed. He dressed slowly, wincing as his bruises complained. He looked around, noticing a picture album nearby. He flipped through it, then removed one and tucked it into his pocket before slipping out the door.
Aiya sat on the couch, dozing, an open book in her hand gone unread.
Yuto stood watching her for a moment, smiling softly. Then he silently opened the front door and went outside.
Aiya woke early in the morning, getting up and starting to cook breakfast.
"Are you going back to the hospital?" Ryon asked quietly as he came in.
"I don't know what else I'd do, honestly," she said softly.
"You are a healer, after all." Ryu leaned in the doorway. "Sleep well?"
"Yeah, I guess. What are you guys going to do now that you don't have to run?"
"I straightened things out with my station. Go back to work next week."
Ryu shrugged. "I have no idea. I do not exist, so I expect to be sponging off the detectives."
"You make it sound as if you're a burden, batboy." Ryon tossed a napkin at him. "I would never get out of the house if it wasn't for you."
"Only because I throw things. Why even have an alarm set if you're going to snooze it fifteen times?"
Aiya chuckled softly. "Do you guys have anywhere to go? You're welcome to keep staying here or at the safehouse until you do."
"We can't do that. Wouldn't be right."
"It's not a problem, you know."
"How much rent do you charge?"
"Don't worry about it."
Yamae chuckled and sat down. "Anyone check on idiot?"
Ryu's jaw twitched, but he didn't answer. Ryon pointedly stared at the table.
Yamae exhaled slowly. "Oh..nevermind then."
Aiya raised an eyebrow at them as she handed them plates full of food.
All three gave her smiles and began to discuss possible living arrangements as they ate.
She stayed quiet as she ate, keeping her eyes on her plate as her mind was busy trying to figure out what to do with her life now. She'd probably stay at the hospital, but she was free.. She could go home.. Her real home. But was it anything like she remembered?
"I refuse to share a room with Pigpen." Ryu stated firmly as Yamae rolled his eyes.
Aiya looked up at them for a moment before putting her dish in the sink and leaning against the counter as the water filled it.
"Hey." Ryon approached her. "You alright?"
"Just thinking about stuff," she shrugged.
"I'd imagine there's a lot to think. But I'm sure you will figure everything out. I'm happy for you, by the way."
She nodded, "Thanks.. I just don't know what to do now. The hospital is comfortable and I can keep helping people.. But do I belong there?"
"Only you can decide that." He gave her a quick hug. "We're going out. Since our place was destroyed, we have a lot to replace. Are you sure about letting us stay?"
She nodded, "Yeah, it's not a problem."
"We'll leave anytime you want." He waved the others out after they deposited their plates, leaving her alone.
After a while, she went to the room Yuto had been in, looking in with a sigh. She then glanced at the time and decided to go for a walk.
Yuto trailed her from a distance, his face impassive. His arms ached, but he resolutely shoved his hands into his jeans. It was better this way, less danger for her.
She found herself at a park and sat down on a swing, watching the few children play on the slides.
Yuto hesitated, then closed his eyes. He slipped behind her and lightly pushed the swing.
She looked back at him, unsure what to say.
He sighed, dropping his hands. "I'm going."
"Where and why?"
"Not sure yet. And I fear your wrath." He joked half heartedly.
"You don't have to go anywhere."
He dropped his eyes. "Not sure I should stay. You'd be in danger."
"If you haven't noticed, I don't care much about danger.. But why would I be in danger now?"
"My duties involve.." He fidgeted, trying to put the words delicately. "People who are not friendly."
She shrugged, "I don't care. Doesn't mean you have to leave."
"I hurt you in the past. Was unsure if you wanted me around." He wouldn't meet her eyes, idly staring at the grass.
"The past is in the past, okay? You're welcome to stay."
He swallowed hard. "How are you feeling?"
"Alright. You?"
"Tired. Little shaky." He pulled his jacket tighter over his left side. "Nothing much."
She sighed and pushed white energy into him gently.
He raised an eyebrow at her. "No need to wear yourself out."
"I'm not, just helping a bit."
He swayed, then looked embarrassed.
She stood and wrapped an arm around him, "We should get you home so you can rest more."
"Home.." He repeated the word. "I haven't had one of those for a long time."
"Well, you're staying at my place for now, so that can be your home."
He gave her a small smile, then winced. "Fucking demons..why can't they just go quietly?" One hand went inside his jacket, then came out coated in white. He quickly stuffed it into his pocket.
She led him back to the house and got him into a bed before working on healing him up more.
"You're going to get annoyed with me.." He said sleepily.
"Why do you think that?"
"Things like this..I don't know how to rely on people. I hide things." He shifted position, then chuckled ruefully. "I'm a mess."
"Well, at least I know now to look for hidden things. But hopefully you'll learn to be more open."
He gave her a soft smile, then drifted off.
The front door opened, laughter following.
"Didn't know you were that terrified.." Yamae was out of breath.
"Shut up!" Ryu sounded embarrassed.
"Now we know how to get him to obey." Ryon was chuckling.
Aiya looked at Yuto again before heading out of the room.
"Guess what? He's afraid of babies!" Yamae nudged a bright red Ryu with an elbow.
She chuckled, "Aw, really?"
"I'm not afraid! Just not..comfortable." He ducked his head as Ryon cracked up.
"You bolted off the elevator so fast, I expected flames.."
She smiled before updating, "Don't be too loud, Yuto's sleeping in the other room."
The men froze, shock on their faces. "He's back?!"
"Yeah, I ran into him while I was out."
"You look unhappy." Ryu watched her.
She shrugged, "He was hurt, but I spent some time healing him."
"Typical." Yamae snorted.
The three of them began sorting their purchases. Afterwards, Ryu headed for the kitchen and began to rummage through the fridge, getting out ingredients.
Aiya followed him, "I'll pick up extra groceries soon. Not used to having this many people in the house."
He gave her a smile. "Don't worry about it. We won't intrude. We figured you'd prefer us at the safehouse and not here. Just want to give you a nice meal as a thank you."
"I mean, I don't mind which house you stay at, if you'd rather stay here that's fine, but it's probably quieter at the safehouse, if that's what you want."
"You misunderstand. We don't wish to cause gossip or trouble for you."
She shrugged, "I don't see how it would cause trouble."
"Four men with one woman?" He raised an eyebrow at her as he chopped vegetables.
"I guess I see your point."
A phone rang, then she heard Ryon speaking a foreign language.
She raised an eyebrow but didn't say anything.
Ryu looked worried as he began to stir the food, his lips tight. He quickly schooled his expression as Yuto shuffled in.
"Feeling better?" She asked.
He gave her a shy smile. "Yeah. Sorry again."
"Don't worry about it."
Ryon entered, giving Yuto a grin. "Couldn't stay away, huh?"
Yuto turned red.
The merman laughed, then kissed Aiya's cheek. "Save some for me."
She raised an eyebrow, "What was that call about? Something going on?"
"Just a friend who needs some help. Nothing to worry about." He grabbed a bottle of water, waved and disappeared.
The front door closed and Yuto rolled his eyes. "He's a lousy liar."
She sighed and shook her head.
Ryu turned off the stove, sitting heavily in a chair and hanging his head.
"What's wrong?"
"My best friend is an idiot and is going to get himself killed. Nothing new. I should be used to it, right?"
Yuto narrowed his eyes. "That phone call was more than a friend in need, wasn't it?"
"Fellow merman. Trouble magnet. This time, he really sounded scared though."
"Should we go help them?" Aiya asked quietly.
"This is why we were going to leave. It's not right to drag you into situations like these." Ryu raised his head, his eyes sad.
She sighed, "I just want to help.."
Yamae's voice rose from the other room. "You bastard! Where is he?"
Aiya peeked in, looking at Yamae worriedly.
He slowly hung up his cell, trembling with rage. His eyes began sparking as he sank to his knees.
She went to him and put a gentle hand on his shoulder, "What's going on and how can I help?"
"Raen has Ryon and Caspian..he's taunting me."
"Let's get them back then."
"He said he'd tell me after they were dead.."
"We'll find them before that." She said assuringly.
"I can find them." Ryu stated.
"Let's go then."
"We must fly." He and Yuto headed for the door.
Aiya followed.
Yamae stayed on the floor, his eyes distant.
Aiya gave him a look, "Everything will be okay. We'll take care of things." Before heading outside.
The men unfurled their wings after checking the street. They rose into the air and waited for her.
She unfurled her wings as well, taking a moment to notice the white color before flying high.
Ryu raced to the warehouse district, heading for an rusty abandoned building before landing softly. "They're here." He looked at her quietly. "Raen is quite mad. He hates Ryon with a passion."
She nodded, "We'll get him back safe."
"Absolutely." Yuto pulled the door open, cringing at the sound of maniacal laughter.
"Not so strong now, are you? Feeling a bit dry yet?"
Ryu blanched, grabbing Aiya's arm for support. "No…"
Aiya steadied him before rushing into the room.
A man was standing above a barely conscious Ryon. He was illuminated by twelve high powered heat lamps aimed squarely at her friend and another motionless person.
Yuto snarled, unleashing a bolt of lightning.
The man dodged, turning and scowling. "Why are angels involved in this?"
"Friends..in high places asshole." Ryon replied slowly.
Raen gave an evil smirk. "No matter. You will all die." He sent an electric shock into Yuto, laughing as the angel flew back with a cry.
Aiya quickly shot light out at Raen as she tried to find a way to turn off the lamps.
He turned toward her. "You should not have gotten involved. This had nothing to do with you."
Ryu screamed angrily, the building shaking as his eyes began to glow.
"Once you hurt my friends, it involves me," Aiya said angrily. She shot more light out toward Raen.
He grunted, bending double as she scored a direct hit. He raised his crackling hand, then screamed as it exploded into flame.
The building continued to shake as Ryu levitated into the air. His eyes were glowing black, his wings beating the air violently. "YOU…"
Aiya worked on freeing Ryon and his friend.
"Stop.. Ryu." Ryon whispered weakly. "It's too late for us.." His scales were dull, cracking around his red skin. His lips were dry and broken, his eyes beginning to dim.
Raen continued to scream as the flames slowly enveloped him.
The warehouse began to come apart, the ceiling cracking.
Aiya thought quickly, focusing energy into them for a few moments before flying up and gently grabbing Ryu, "You need to calm down or else we won't be able to save them."
He stared at her, the dark orbs holding no recognition. A burst of black light slammed into her.
Raen's charred skeleton hit the floor, crumbling to pieces as the roof split in two and caved in around the two angels.
Ryu's hands began pulsing black as he raised them high.
Aiya pulled out Yuto, Ryon, and the other merman, then flew up to Ryu. She shot white light into him rapidly.
He screamed and went limp, the black light blinking out as he started to fall.
Aiya caught him and carefully placed him on the ground beside Yuto. She focused and summoned water, soaking Ryon and the other merman before pouring light into them as well.
Yuto blinked hazy eyes open, groaning as he tried to rise. "What happened?"
"Ryu.. went a little nuts?"
The angel looked at the remains of the warehouse with a raised eyebrow. "I'd hate to see what you call a complete meltdown." He looked at Ryon worriedly. "That bastard.."
She continued working on healing the mermen, "Why did he do this? What does he have against them?"
"I don't know. Yamae never mentioned him to me. Possibly only he and Ryu know." Yuto climbed to his feet and approached the downed nephilim, placing a hand on the young man's forehead. He winced at the heat radiating, then sighed. "We need to get them home before anyone shows up."
She nodded and worked on lifting Ryon and his friend.
Yuto carefully picked up Ryu, then rose into the air and headed for the house.
Aiya followed. Once back at the house, she continued working on helping them.
Yamae stood watching silently, his eyes haunted.
Yuto carefully laid Ryu down, mind racing. He put a cool rag on the nephilim's head, then sat down.
When the mermen were stabilized and doing better, she went to Ryu. She checked him over before injecting him with something to help with the fever.
"Are you alright?" Yuto asked quietly.
"Don't worry about me, I'll be fine," she answered. "How are you?"
"Feel fried, honestly. But I'll survive. More worried about all of them."
She nodded and finally sat down to rest for a few minutes before bandaging up her few injuries.
Ryon stirred, coughing harshly. "Water..."
She quickly brought him multiple water bottles.
Yuto helped him sit up, holding the bottles to his lips.
Ryon greedily drank, his eyes clearing.
"Slow, Ry. You'll get sick." Yuto took the water away as Ryon took a deep breath.
Ryu bolted upright, his eyes wild with terror.
"Hey, everything is okay, just calm down," she said softly.
"I..hurt you. I almost killed everyone..!" He was violently shaking, his breathing strained.
She put a hand on him gently, "It's alright. I'm fine, everyone is okay."
"It's not alright! This is why Yuto was supposed to kill me.." Ryu flinched and burst into tears. "I would have destroyed everything and felt no remorse.."
"Shhh, everything is okay. None of us are upset, we're just worried about you."
He lunged for the first aid kit, scrabbling for the scissors and attempting to stab himself.
Yuto was faster, knocking them away. "Ryu! Calm down!"
Aiya sent calming energy into Ryu as she gently rubbed his back.
He sobbed into her shoulder. "Kill me…"
"No. You don't deserve it."
"If I lose control again.."
"We'll deal with it."
"Ryu. Help me." Ryon held out a hand. "Need a bath."
Ryu took a shaky breath, then helped the merman to the bathroom.
Yuto scowled. "What a mess."
Yamae was propped up against the wall, his eyes closed. The other merman was still motionless where he'd been laid.
Aiya sighed, "At least they are safer now.. but what do we do about Ryu?"
"I wish I knew." He ran a hand over his face. "Did we screw up?"
"By what? Saving him?"
"By me not doing my job."
"I think we did good saving him. You shouldn't have to kill your brother."
"Might not have been a blessing." Yuto stood and moved to her side. He awkwardly leaned over and kissed her, then blushed and retreated.
She blushed, unsure what to say.
"I shouldn't have done that." He stared out the window reluctantly.
She stood and went to him, pulling him in for another kiss.
He returned it, then pushed away. "I can't..it's forbidden."
"Why?"
"Because I never know who my next target is. I can't be sure tomorrow He won't want you dead for some reason." He forced the tears back and took a deep breath.
She looked down, "I guess I don't want to cause you any trouble.."
A minute passed, then he was kissing back as if trying to inhale her. "I don't care if I Fall. I don't care about the Pit. He can strike me down right now.."
"I don't want you in trouble." She sighed but then kissed him gently, "but I like this.."
A broad smile spread over his face. "I love you.." He drew back when she didn't reply. "I'm sorry." He headed for the door quickly.
She quickly got to his side, "Don't go. You just surprised me."
"I must be mad. I killed your lover, caused you to Fall and then think I can be loved?" He shook his head at the floor. "I shouldn't be here.."
"Please don't go.. I.. I love you too. I don't care what happened in the past, I care about right now."
He looked up, searching her face. "Don't lie to me…"
The bathroom door opened, then just as quickly closed again.
"Look, it's been a long time since I've been with anyone but I know I have feelings for you. I have no reason to lie."
"I've never..I mean this is my.." He turned red.
She smiled softly, "It's alright. We'll just take things slow if that's better for you."
"Slow is for mermen.." He joked.
"I heard that!" Ryon yelled.
Aiya chuckled slightly.
Ryon opened the door and narrowed his eyes. "That's rude. Can I help if I'm an attentive lover?"
Yuto fought a grin. "First off, you shouldn't be eavesdropping, scaly. Secondly, taking eighty years to get to second base isn't attentive, it's ridiculous."
The merman stuck his tongue out and blew a raspberry.
Aiya laughed softly.
He grinned at her, then sobered. "Caspian?"
She looked over at the other merman, "He hasn't woken yet."
"Means he probably won't." Ryon looked away. "Thanks for trying. Where's Yamae?"
Aiya looked around, "Not sure where he went but I'll see if I can do anything more for your friend." She went to him and began pouring white light into him.
"Yamae's sleeping over here." Yuto called as he looked over at her.
Ryon came out and wrapped his hands over Aiya's. "I appreciate all you've done, but he's gone. Raen had him for a long time."
She looked up at him, "I want to keep trying. For just a little longer."
He gave her a sad smile as he stepped away. "I'm going to put Ryu to bed. He passed out on me." He reentered the bathroom, then came out carrying the nephilim. He went into the guest bedroom and closed the door.
Aiya continued pouring light for a long while before she finally stepped away sadly.
Yuto wrapped his arms around her.
She relaxed slightly, "I hate when I can't help a patient."
"Spoken like a true healer." Yuto answered. He opened his mouth to speak again, then froze. "Aiya…" He pointed to Caspian who had begun to glow.
She looked at him carefully, wondering what was happening.
Dark eyes shot open, staring at her in confusion. "Who?"
"Shh it's alright. We're friends of Ryon's."
Caspian sat up quickly, then winced as his scales cracked. "He's okay?"
She nodded, "He's okay. He's just in the other room."
"Thank god. Sorry if I caused any trouble. I'll leave now." He began to stand, gritting his teeth.
She shook her head, "Don't worry, just rest. Can I get you anything?"
"I don't want to impose. I need to get rehydrated, but I'll find someplace."
"Well, I have water bottles or a bathtub."
He stopped and looked at her. "Why are you helping me?"
"I'm a doctor, I help people."
He sighed. "I'm being a bit of an ass aren't I?"
She chuckled, "You're fine."
Yuto rolled his eyes and pushed a bottle of water into his hand and then shoved Caspian into the bathroom. "Go soak before I descale you."
Caspian's eyes widened, but closed the door silently.
Aiya sat down with a sigh.
"What?" The angel went to her side, his face concerned.
She shook her head, "Just a long day, you know?"
"Yeah. At least yours is done." He reached for his jacket with a sigh.
"You have to go?"
"I've got a job to finish. I didn't get my target. He got me as you saw. I'll be back quick, I swear."
"Do you want help?"
He gave her a soft chuckle. "You're exhausted. You need to rest."
She sighed, "Call if you need help though?"
"Yes ma'am." He saluted and laughed, then kissed her cheek and left.
As the door closed, Yamae rubbed his eyes. "Aiya? What happened?" He sat for a moment, then freaked. "Ryon! He was in trouble!"
"Shh, everything is alright. He's safe."
"Raen?"
"Gone."
He exhaled sharply, then jumped when the bathroom door opened.
"Miss?"
"Yeah? I'm Aiya by the way."
"Caspian. Can I impose for one final thing?"
"You're fine," she smiled softly, "What can I help you with?"
"Is there any leftover food you're going to throw out?"
She rolled her eyes, "Come on, let's find you something to eat." She headed to the kitchen and grabbed a few things out and started warming them up.
Caspian suddenly yelped in surprise.
Aiya looked back at him.
Yamae had him in a headlock. "Stop being such a wuss! She won't bite, but she will kick your ass if you don't knock off the timid act."
Aiya laughed before placing the items on a plate. "You hungry too, Yamae?"
"Starving. Sorry I freaked." He dragged the other merman to the table. "May I introduce you to my idiot cousin Caspian?"
She chuckled and handed them both plates before sitting down with her own. "Nice to meet you."
Caspian chuckled. "Likewise." His eyes widened at the food. "Are you sure about this?"
"Yeah, it's not a problem."
"Eat, moron." Yamae told him.
Caspian grinned, then inhaled the food.
The bedroom door opened and Ryon came out looking lost. "Can't sleep."
"Hey, everything is okay now."
Ryon kept his eyes down. "I appreciate the sentiment, but.."
"Ryon.. look up."
He raised his eyes and froze as Caspian waved at him while stealing food off Yamae's plate.
"How?"
Aiya shrugged, "Not entirely sure."
Ryon shakily sat down. "I don't know how to thank you." He paused and searched the room. "Where's Yuto?"
She sighed, "He went to get a target."
"After getting zapped? He's a damn moron." Ryu shuffled out with a yawn.
As if on cue, Aiya's cell rang.
She quickly answered it, "Hello?"
"Sorry to stand you up.." The words were pained, Yuto's voice faint.
"Where are you?"
"Currently hiding in the groundskeeper shed at the park. I just didn't want you thinking I ran away.." He bit back a cry.
"I'll be there as soon as I can, okay?"
"NO! I won't let you get killed too. Just take care of them."
Her eyes began filling with tears but she shook her head, "No, I'm not just going to leave you."
"Trazon would be overjoyed if he got you..Please stay safe. I lo-" He let out a scream, then the line went dead.
She bit back a sob before quickly heading to the door.
"Drag his ass home, okay?" Ryu looked at her.
She nodded and checked the area before taking off flying. She found the park and the building he'd been in and started for it.
A few feet ahead, a massive demon covered in knives appeared standing over a blood drenched and motionless Yuto. It looked up and grinned at her. "You must be his toy."
She growled and began shooting light at him.
He laughed and sped toward her, slashing his fist.
She managed to dodge quickly, shooting more light at him.
He lost the smile, a ball of black flame shooting from his palm. "I don't have time to play with you unfortunately."
She tried to dodge but was singed by it. She hissed before her eyes began glowing. White light shot from both of her hands into him.
He convulsed, the light burning holes in him. He screamed, then teleported away.
She went and poured healing energy into Yuto. After his wounds were finally healed, she flew him home, gently resting him on a bed.
"Is he alive?" Ryu looked anxiously at his brother's shredded clothing.
"Yeah, he was hurt really badly though."
"Have..to stop..him.." Yuto tried to push himself up.
She gently pushed him back, "Not until you're healed."
"I don't..matter. Only the target..I'm replaceable. The humans he'll kill aren't.." He shook from blood loss and shock.
"Shh, where can he be found?"
"You can't! I won't let you be hurt!"
"You're in no shape to be fighting him."
Yuto mumbled the name of a popular club before losing consciousness.
Aiya nodded and made sure he was stable before going to leave for the club. She changed and threw a bit of makeup on to blend in before heading to the front door.
She was waved in, the bouncer surveying her appreciatively.
She entered and scanned the place for anything suspicious.
A pair of gold eyes watched her from a corner table, their owner hidden.
A flashy looking man made the rounds of the dance floor, giving the eye to various women. He suddenly froze, looking up and locking eyes with Aiya.
She looked him over carefully.
He recovered, giving her a sadistic grin before disappearing out a side door.
Her eyes narrowed and she followed him.
He stopped in an alley, turning and shedding his disguise in one smooth motion. "You came back. Good. I have a score to settle with you."
She growled, "Why are you hurting people in the first place?"
"I'm a demon. It's what I do."
She sighed and shook her head before preparing to attack.
A blast of energy struck the asphalt at her feet. "He's mine."
She looked up at the speaker.
The gold eyed man stood on the fire escape, one hand outstretched. "You should go home." He turned to face the demon. "Trazon. Time to return to the Pit."
Aiya moved but didn't leave, watching to see what would happen.
The man swung a black rope around Trazon, making the demon cry out in pain. The rope began to crackle as the man began to chant in angel.
Trazon snarled, slicing through the rope with a blade. He grinned at the other's startled expression, then sent multiple knives to impale him.
The angel tumbled off the stairs, landing behind Aiya with a loud crack.
Aiya growled and summoned her sword, racing toward the demon.
He laughed and waved her forward. "Come and get me."
She stabbed into him before forcing white light through the sword.
He let out a high pitched scream, burning holes appearing in his body. He thrashed wildly, but was engulfed in light. His body crumbled around the blade, ash swirling in the breeze.
Once he was gone, Aiya moved to the other angel, checking him over and pouring light into him.
"Where..is he?"
"He's been turned to ash. Don't worry."
His gold eyes blinked slowly. "My task..is complete.."
She continued to pour light into him.
"I..must die. It is the rules.."
"Shh, don't worry about that."
He grabbed her hand. "Stay with me?"
"Everything will be okay," she said softly. "Just relax."
His eyes fluttered closed, his breathing slowing.
She forced more light into him to help steady his vitals before gently lifting him and flying him toward her house.
Ryu opened the door, one eyebrow rising as he saw the man.
She got him inside and laid him on a couch before sitting down with a sigh.
"Are you regretting staying involved?"
She shook her head, "Gives me some excitement. Just worried about him though. He was after the same target as Yuto. Not sure why they'd have two angels after the same person."
"Replacement.." Yuto answered as he pushed himself up. "When one of my designation is at death's door or completely dead, another in limbo is activated."
She nodded slowly.
Yuto glanced at the unconscious angel. "Should have known it would be Shin."
"You know him?"
"Let's just say we got in trouble at the same time. How bad?"
"I've gotten him stabilized but he still needs rest."
Yuto eyed the ceiling warily.
"Everything will be alright," she said gently.
"You're treading on thin ice, Aiya. There's rules to be followed. You keep breaking them." He gave her a tiny smile.
She smirked, "Do you know how many rules I've broken over the years, long before I fell?"
He rolled his eyes, then winced. "What happened to big and ugly? Did he escape again?"
"He's dust."
"Congratulations. You just vaporized a millennium old demon."
She chuckled, "A millennium is nothing."
He laughed softly, then swayed.
She went to his side and forced light into him.
"I'm glad you're alright." He blinked as he fought unconsciousness.
"Just rest and relax, okay?" She said quietly before kissing his cheek.
He gave her a soft smile, laying his head on her shoulder and allowing his eyes to close.