A Different Fate

by Musal

What if Train didn't know Creed killed Saya? What if he believed it was Chronos? What if Train helped Creed create the Apostles to get revenge on Chronos? What happens when Train learns the truth? CxT

44. The Other Shoe

Disclaimer: I do not own Black Cat or its characters.

In case anyone was ever wondering and reads more of my other stuff, I often put music in my work. This chapter is not exception. I do that because I'm actually a music teacher and musician, so music speaks to me :)

CW: Character death.

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Creed glanced over his shoulder at his beloved, a knowing smirk on his face as he rolled his eyes.

He doesn't think I see what he's been doing…

"Train, if you keep eating all the food, we won't have any left to give to Anastasia or anyone else for that matter."

Train felt his face drain of its color as his partner giggled. He had half of a bar of food stuffed in his mouth and took a big bite as he removed the half that wasn't in his mouth. "The package said it was an ice cream bar and I wanted to be the judge of that!"

Creed laughed at his lover again as he taped up a box of canned soup. "That's dehydrated food, Train. I don't think it'll taste very good."

Train frowned and squinted at the bag he was holding up to Creed. "It says it's an astronaut ice cream bar…"

Creed nodded his head, his face still highly amused as he responded. "Yes, I know, my love. I got those in case of an emergency and so when we changed hideouts there would be something to eat."

Train nodded his head. "I know that. But, that doesn't change what my curiosity was when I consumed this…"

Creed cocked an eyebrow at him. "And what about the rest of it?"

Train looked around himself, noticing the amount of empty wrappers surrounding his body that he had left on the ground as he organized the food with his lover. They were trying to put similar foods together to make it easier for the organizations they were donating them to. Creed had taken care of the canned and boxed foods and Train was supposed to work on the dehydrated foods. The problem he was now facing was the fact that he started reading almost every package he picked up, got curious, and decided to try it. He figured because there was so much of each item, it wouldn't hurt to eat just one of everything.

There's still so many! It shouldn't be a problem.

Train grabbed the pile of wrappers and shoved them in Creed's face. "Why did you ever think we would eat all this food in one lifetime anyway?!"

Creed laughed and grabbed some of the empty wrappers from his love and threw them in Train's face. "Because I know you can out eat anyone on this planet. Besides that, we were living with not only the Apostles at the time, but all those servants as well."

Train gave his lover a mocking sweet look. "Aww, that's nice. You thought of the help as well."

Creed sighed, sensing the sarcasm in his beloved's voice as he turned to the next empty box he was about to fill with more canned foods. "Well, at the time I wanted to make sure they were taken care of so they would take care of you. But now, I realize that was selfish."

Train could hear a bit of sadness in his Stallion's voice and frowned. He turned away from his pile of food and wrapped his arms around Creed's waist, hugging the silver man from behind. "You're not selfish like that anymore and even then it wasn't your fault. You weren't fully yourself back then."

Creed sighed blissful as he leaned back into his beloved. That hug was exactly the reason why he wanted them to organize together. Not just because he didn't think Train would do it properly, but he wanted to make sure he was close to his Kitten the entire time. They hadn't found a place to live yet, but they knew they couldn't stay at the mansion for much longer, so they had to go back to the sweeper hideout for a while. However, they found a way around that by packing up all the old Apostles hideouts. They both knew it was going to be a long task that would require them to be out of the sweeper house for a while, which meant they got more time alone together.

It also doesn't require electricity as long as we do it during the day, so we can leave everything turned off. It's a relief the weather is getting warmer so we don't have to worry about the heat, but it's also not hot enough yet for the air conditioning. But this is the second mansion we packed up and the last one we can stay at. The other one's aren't located somewhere we can stay at for long.

They stayed as long as they could at the mansion before it was too long, but unfortunately a month and a half wasn't enough time to find an apartment. Other than not living with their friends, their lives had pretty much gotten back to normal. They were still doing sweeps with Sven and Eve, but instead of going home with them, Train flashed them back to their 'Honeymoon Suite', as Creed liked to call it, and they spent their time there. Besides separating from their friends after missions, everything was relatively the same.

Only relatively because now we have the added benefit of being lovers again. These last seven weeks have been even more amazing than I remember. It's like we didn't skip a beat, yet somehow that beat has gained more rhythm and speed.

Their relationship was just as amazing as Creed remembered it, but now it felt stronger and more impregnable. Creed didn't feel any self-doubt, guilt, or possessiveness that he felt when they were first together and Train felt more reassured in their love. The trust they had built up tenfold and their love felt more honest and healthy. Creed didn't feel like he had to threaten anyone that looked at his Kitten and Train didn't feel like he had to constantly remind Creed that he loved him. They were more secure in their feelings for each other and their relationship showed absolute signs of lasting the long run no matter what life threw at them.

Other than one of us dying, I can't see anything coming in between us and I know neither of us will let anything come between us.

Creed smiled when he felt Train kiss the top of his head and returned his beloved's gesture by kissing his hand. He realized that he had gotten lost in his own thoughts while he was in Train's embrace, which was something that happened to him often in the last seven weeks. Every time his love held him like that, the rest of the world around him slipped away and all he could do was think about how happy he was. His life had become Heaven since Train told him how he felt and what he wanted of their relationship.

He loves me and wants to spend the rest of his life with me. He's even helped me look for apartments! It's just been difficult to find the right place with how busy we've been.

Not only were they still joining Sven and Eve in every one of their sweeps, but Creed was also helping Anastasia at the school again and she had been working him more than usual. He was concerned that meant she was rushing him to learn everything about every part of her business because she didn't think he had much longer. Creed also couldn't help but notice how much she had been deteriorating the last month and a half. It had been wearing on his mind non-stop and had become a common topic with Train. He needed someone to talk to about it, and obviously he didn't keep anything from his lover.

I feel like Train knows something about her health that I don't, but I have a feeling she told him not to tell me. It doesn't matter, though. Whatever it is doesn't matter because no matter what it is, it's killing her.

Creed felt himself getting sad all over again and since he wanted to enjoy the day with Train, he decided to force himself to change the subject to something else in his mind. "Did you know there was powdered milk as well?"

Train blinked and looked down at the silver man in his arms. "Really?"

Creed giggled at his beloved's intrigued voice, amazed at how just hearing one word from Train could lift his heart and make him forget any pain or sorrow he had. "Really. It's in those tubs over there."

Train followed where his partner's finger pointed, then finally released Creed to inspect the tub. Creed watched his Kitten with love in his eyes as the Black Cat turned the tub of dehydrated milk in his hand, reading the instructions on how to make it. Creed laughed again and took the milk from his love, walking over to the sink to pour Train a cup.

"I'll make a glass for you. I'm much farther ahead on my organizing than you are."

Train frowned at his lover, then compared the work Creed had done to what he had done. "You shouldn't have given me the interesting, edible food. You should have given me the canned goods."

Creed looked over at Train as he poured the correct amount of water into the class and smiled warmly. "Maybe I just wanted to see how cute you looked eating all that food."

Train widened his eyes and pointed an accusing finger at the swordsman. "YOU SET ME UP!"

Creed laughed again and rolled his eyes. "Set you up? Set you up for what?"

Train pouted and turned back to his task, moving a little faster as he dumped packages of food into a box. "Set me up for failure! You know the packing has gone slower because of me, and you gave me a job you knew I'd go slower at on purpose!"

Creed shrugged his shoulders. "True. But that's mostly because I wanted to make sure we could spend more time alone together."

Train's back was facing Creed when he said that, but he still smiled warmly at his partner's sentiment and felt his heart flutter. "Guess I can't be mad at you for that…"

Even though Creed couldn't see his beloved's face, he knew the loving look Train took on and felt butterflies flap in his stomach. "I didn't think so."

Train sighed as he taped up a box and started another one. "Still, you could have just told me that instead of making me look like a fool."

Creed frowned as he poured himself a glass of water and walked towards his beloved. "I didn't mean to make you look like a fool…"

Train heard the whine in his Stallion's voice and rolled his eyes as he glanced over his shoulders at the man. "You know what I mean. You could have just told me you wanted to spend more time alone together. You know I wouldn't have turned that down."

Creed sighed peacefully as he handed Train his glass of milk, kissing his Kitten lightly on the lips before taking a sip of his water. "Maybe that was all just a set up so I could hear you say that."

Train blinked. "Seriously? Now you're manipulating my words?"

Creed winked at Train, then pinched his cheek playfully. "I think you know I can manipulate you into doing a lot."

Train smirked and wrapped his arm around Creed's waist before the man walked away and held his glass to the side so he could pull his lover against his chest. "But you know you don't have to manipulate me anymore, right?"

Creed collapsed into his beloved's embrace, relishing the way Train's arms felt around him every time the gunman showed even the smallest amount of dominance. "I know. But it's still fun."

Train's smirk got wider as he lessened the distance between their lips. "Okay, but I'm sure it's more fun when I just give you what you want, right?"

Creed felt the heat in his chest rise as he rested his forehead against Train's. "And how do you know what I want? Are you a mind reader now?"

Train rolled his eyes, knowing Creed was trying to manipulate him again and pressed his lips against his partner's. Creed returned the kiss immediately, deepening it instantly as he slipped his tongue into the golden man's mouth. Using his unoccupied hand, Creed slid his arm up his love's back and gripped at his shoulder tightly, pressing their chests so they were flushed together. Train took a step closer to Creed, squeezing his arm around the swordsman's waist as he twirled his tongue around his lover's. As they tasted every inch of each other's mouths, they lost themselves in the embrace, momentarily forgetting around the chores they had set for the day.

After a few minutes, Train finally broke the kiss, let go of Creed, and pushed him away a little. "Don't think I don't know what you're trying to do."

Creed blinked, then frowned as his beloved stepped away from him to go back to packing boxes. "What am I doing, Train?"

Train gave the silver man a mock glare from over his shoulder. "Trying to distract me from finishing this arduous task with your provocative temptations."

Creed's frown changed to a smirk. "And just how did I tempt you just now?"

Train hardened his fake glare. "By existing."

Creed licked his lips and approached his beloved, wrapping his arm around Train's waist and fingering at the hem of his pants. He pulled the cat's back against his chest and brushed his lips against Train's neck as he spoke. "We don't have to finish this now, you know… We can distract and entertain each other in more...sensual ways."

Train moaned a little as he leaned back into his lover. When he felt Creed's finger slip down his pants, he slid his empty hand up and down his partner's arm, resting his head against the silver man's as he shut his eyes. It was incredible how easy it was for him to get lost in his partner's touches, but he knew they didn't have a lot of time to finish packing up the kitchen since their friends would be there soon to pick up boxes.

As he gently rubbed Creed's arms, he leaned his head to the side to allow the swordsman room to kiss his neck. "We don't have time for this, Creed. They'll be here any minute."

Creed smiled seductively when he heard his beloved moan at his lips' caresses and used that for his encouragement to nibble on Train's sweet skin a little. "Who's going to be here any minute?"

Train opened his eyes and frowned, realizing Creed didn't remember the phone call he had with Eve earlier that morning. Knowing it was going to upset his lover to hear that he forgot having a conversation with someone who was very close to him, Train knew he needed to comfort the silver man before he told him. Train leaned forward a little to place his glass on a stool that was standing next to him, then reached over and grabbed Creed's glass of water, placing it next to his milk. He could tell by the eagerness of his lover's lips against his neck that Creed thought Train was setting their drinks aside so they could bring their embrace to the next level.

Train sighed and trailed his fingers along Creed's arms, spinning himself around so his chest was flushed against his lover's. He continued sliding his hand up Creed's arm until it finally landed on the back of the swordsman's neck, his other hand resting gently on the back of his partner's lower back to pull him a little closer. When he felt Creed's kisses get a little more intense, Train choked back a moan and pulled his head away from his lover, forcing the silver man to look up at him. Train's frown deepened when he saw the confusion in Creed's eyes, knowing his Stallion was going to become even more upset when he told him he had forgotten something again.

The Black Cat rested his forehead against Creed's and made eye contact with him since he knew that never failed to relax his lover. He moved his lips a little closer to Creed, but made sure his partner knew it wasn't to give him a kiss. However, he still brushed them against Creed's as he spoke, holding the man stronger in his arms as he pressed his body closer.

"Creed…" Train made his tone sympathetic and loving, trying to let the man know he didn't want to upset him. "You had a conversation with Eve this morning. She's coming by with Sven, Rinslet, Lin, and Anastasia to collect boxes. They're each bringing them to a donation center. Do you remember?"

Creed's smile turned to a frown and his blissful state at being held by Train turned into anxiety. "Wh-what?"

Train sighed again and held Creed a little tighter. "You spoke to her for quite a while and she told us they'd be here around noon. It's eleven forty-five now, so they'll be here soon."

Creed felt himself growing more anxious as he tried to remember the conversation with the bio-girl, but try as he might, he couldn't remember anything from that morning except for waking up next to Train. "O-oh…"

I remember having a conversation with E to update her on our situation, but not with Eve. I guess that's because it pertained to Train and the conversation with Eve had to do with something else.

About a month ago, they went out to buy Creed a new phone, since they knew his other one was long gone. Eve's number was the first one he took from Train's phone and messaged her right away asking her to look around his room for a piece of paper with a phone number on it. He remembered speaking with her and writing it down, but he didn't know where he left it. Luckily, Eve was able to find it and text him her number. It was a huge relief when he sent the woman a message and explained their situation without giving away the battle they had with the Apostles since he had been thinking about what was going on with her non-stop. The last thing he wanted was for her to think Creed blew her off or worse, than Train blew her off.

She was really understanding and we were able to set up another make-up date for-Wait, what day is it?!

Creed reached into his pocket and pulled out his phone, checking the date along with the messages from E. He explained to the woman without giving her too many details that she would have to remind him constantly about when they would be meeting so he wouldn't forget. He was pretty sure he'd remember since it was for Train, but that date with E was too important for him to forget, so he made sure to go out of his way to make sure he wouldn't forget. He even set an alarm on his phone for the day before, the morning of, the afternoon of, and a few hours beforehand so he wouldn't forget.

But did I somehow forget that too?! If I can't remember this conversation with Eve, it's hard to believe I didn't mess up with date with E as well.

After checking his calendar, he sighed in relief, then scrolled to his recent calls to see Train was right. He stared at his phone, feeling himself growing a little cold that he could forget speaking to the girl since she was one of the people he cared about more than anyone else in the world. Creed clutched his phone tightly, his hands shaking a little as he tried to desperately remember the conversation with Eve. He stared at her name on his phone as if that would help, but it didn't.

Dammit… I'm so useless…

Train watched as Creed panicked and pulled out his phone, giving the man a minute to see for himself he had in fact spoken to Eve that morning. However, as soon as he felt the man tremble in his arms and saw his eyes obsessing over the bio-girl's name on his phone, he grabbed the device from Creed and put it back in his lover's pocket. When he finally had his Stallion's eyes back on him, he smiled warmly and wrapped his arms around Creed's lower back, pulling the swordsman against his chest and making sure their eyes locked onto one another again.

Train smiled warmly and kissed Creed lightly, allowing his lips to linger in hopes that would pull his partner out of his self-pity. After a few seconds, he felt Creed's body relax in his arms and return his kiss as the silver man's arms slid around Train's neck to deepen it slightly. Train allowed his partner to slip his tongue between his lips and inside his mouth, pulling Creed a little closer as he tasted the other man. Their tongues swirled around each other for a few minutes as Train gave his lover time to calm down and hopefully forgive himself for forgetting.

After a few minutes, Train finally pulled away, locking eyes with Creed again as he smiled cordially at him. "Remember what we said a few weeks ago?"

Creed returned Train's smile, remembering every single detail of the time he spent with his Kitten and nodded his head. "If all we have to deal with is my goldfish memory, then we should consider ourselves lucky."

Train chuckled and flicked Creed's forehead playfully, then kissed the spot that he hit. "That's right. You're alive and well and we're together. That's all that matters, right?"

Creed sighed peacefully at Train's words as nuzzled his face next to his love's as he spoke. "Together?"

Train's smile deepened, knowing what Creed wanted him to say and not waiting a second to say it. "Always…"

They remained like that for what felt like only a few seconds, but turned out to be several minutes. The only thing that broke them out of their loving stupor was the clearing of someone's throat. Train jumped a little at the sound and turned his head to see his friends standing in the doorway. Sven was the one to clear his throat, the green man leaning his back against the wall, arms folded against his chest as he smirked knowingly at the duo. Next to him was Eve who seemed to be annoyed at Sven interrupting them, but did not say or do anything to correct him. Anastasia and Aimee were next to Eve, the old woman smiling proudly, as if she were watching her son finally find his happiness and the girl seeming to not really care what she saw.

Train did not pull his arms away from Creed, nor did he pull his partner away from himself as he greeted his friends, his first comment directed at Eve. "Lil' Princess, you're getting so tall!"

It was true. Even though he had seen her during the last seven weeks on their missions, there was something about seeing her standing still and next to Sven that really showed how much taller she had gotten since he and Creed had left the hideout. When he first met Eve, she barely reached the green haired man's waist. Now, she stood about at his shoulders, making Train think it was only a matter of time before she was taller than her guardian.

I know the nanomachines are speeding up her growth, but this is getting ridiculous! She needs to slow down. I'm not ready for her not to be our Little Princess anymore.

Eve smiled slightly as she looked up at Sven, realizing how tall she was, then removing the smile as she turned back to Train. "You've only seen me in battle lately, so you haven't noticed."

Sven looked down at her sadly and patted her head, ignoring the annoyed sound the girl made. "I keep telling her to slow down, but she claims she can't help it."

Eve rolled her eyes and pushed Sven's hand off her head. "I can't. Like I said, it's the nanomachines."

Anastasia laughed and squeezed Eve's shoulder along with Aimee's. "I have to say, they are both turning out to be fine young ladies. And they're both already taller than I am!"

Train couldn't help but laugh, his arms still around Creed who was now snuggling his head deep into his neck. "No offense, but that's not really a hard task, Anastasia."

The old woman glared at Train, then leaned heavily on her cane. "You callin' me short, Cat?"

Train shrugged his shoulders, smiling down at Creed as the man settled himself further into his body. "If the shoe fits…"

Anastasia noticed her student's heavenly smile and secured position in Train's arms and couldn't help but smile warmly at the couple. She gestured towards Creed as Aimee retrieved a chair for her to sit on. "Does he even know we're here?"

Train smiled and turned back to Creed, kissing the top of his head before he spoke. "Probably not. He had a moment before you guys got here."

None of them needed Train to explain what he meant since it had become his way of explaining to them Creed forgot something. It was hard for the silver man to accept what had become of his short term memory, so instead of being blunt about it, which was normally Train's style, he tried to be more subtle in his explanations of his lover's short comings. Even though Train didn't see it as a shortcoming.

If Creed didn't get so upset about it afterwards, it'd be rather endearing. Maybe I should tell him that. If he knows I think it's cute, it'd probably change the way he saw it. But, I guess it's hard for me to see anything he does as anything less than adorable.

Train made a mental note to mention that to Creed the next chance he got. He was about to speak again, but was interrupted by Rinslet as the woman turned into the room, stopping when she saw the position the men were in. Train frowned at her, knowing Creed still hadn't noticed they entered the room since he was too busy breathing in the scent of the gunman to forget his earlier stress.

The thief glanced over her shoulder, then back at Train with a worried look. Train had a feeling he knew what she was trying to hint at and frowned, deciding he had to untangle himself from Creed in order to spare his ex-lover's feelings before he walked through the door. Lin had still been accompanying them on sweeps and even stopped by the mansion a few times to visit Train, but ended up almost always catching them in some kind of intimate embrace. While Train didn't think he should have to constantly cater to Lin's feelings, he knew he could at least spare him the pain of seeing the gunman hold Creed like that.

And it seems like Creed has calmed down enough. Besides, we need to get these boxes loaded and out of here. There's still more mansions to work on.

Train gently pushed Creed off him, kissing his lover one more time on the lips before turning to grab his milk again. It was perfect timing as Lin walked through the door with a dolly, Sergey walking in with him as the men engaged in what appeared to be some sort of friendly conversation. However, as soon as they stepped in the room, they seemed to forget all about each other when they saw the men they loved standing in the next room.

Train glanced at Creed to make sure he was okay and seeing that he was, decided to greet Lin. "A dolly? Really?"

Lin's smile at seeing Train turned to a slightly confused frown. "I knew we were going to have to move a lot of boxes so I thought this would help."

Train rolled his eyes, an amused smile on his face as he used his Tao to lift one of the boxes, float it over to Lin and place it lightly on the dolly. Lin blushed at his sweet love's smirk, adoring the cheeky look Train had as he shrugged his shoulders. "You're still using it, aren't you?"

Train rubbed his face and brought the glass of milk closer to his lips, speaking before he took a sip. "I have other methods of getting the boxes outside."

Sergey rolled his eyes, unimpressed by the cat's Tao. "Yeah, but it's still a lot to move."

Train shrugged his shoulders and floated another box towards himself. He wrapped his arm around it, then lightning dashed towards his friends, placing the box on top of the one that was already there, then dashed back without spilling a drop of his milk.

When he went back to his partner, he put his elbow on an adoring Creed's shoulder, leaning against his lover as he gave his friends a cheeky smile. "I'll manage."

Sven sighed as Lin giggled at the cat's antics. "Why did you even ask us here if you were going to just show off your Tao?"

Train shrugged his shoulders again and smirked, bringing the glass of milk to his lips again. "Because you all have cars that can bring them to the various locations."

Rinslet spoke next as she shoved Lin with her elbow, trying to break her friend out of his loving stupor as she walked into the room to grab another box. "Can't you just flash yourself to the locations?"

Train shrugged his shoulders again, once more being distracted from drinking his new verison of milk. "I could, but doesn't this just give us more time to spend together?"

Lin's heart skipped a beat at that, even though he knew Train didn't mean it the way his heart was taking it and glanced at Rinslet. "Train's right. I'm actually looking forward to it."

Rinslet rolled her eyes. "Geeze, I wonder why…"

Lin gave the woman a knowing look as she glanced over her shoulder at him, still making her way towards the couple. "Anyway, can we just get started already? I don't want to spend all day here and it looks like you still have a lot of packing to d-"

Her sentence was cut off as Train spat a mouthful of milk at her. She froze, blinked, then looked down at herself, trying to process what just happened.

Train wiped his mouth and stepped away from Creed, pointing an accusing finger at the man. "Are you trying to poison me?! I thought you loved me!"

Creed frowned at Train, knowing his beloved was kidding, but not happy that the gunman didn't seem to like the drink he made. "You don't like it?"

Train shook his head and rubbed his tongue with his fingers. "NO!" He glared at the cup, then slammed it down on the counter next to him, almost shattering the glass. "This is a glass full of LIES!"

Lin tried to stifle his laughter at Train's dramatic words and even Sergey's lips twitched in amusement. As much as he disliked the Black Cat for keeping Creed from him, he couldn't ignore how entertaining and adorable Train was. However, when he saw Creed grab some paper towels from the counter and dab at the golden man's lips, his jealousy came back and he approached the lovers, pulling out a handkerchief from his pocket as he moved closer.

"Maybe next time don't get any on the goods…"

Creed narrowed his eyes at the Russian man as he began dabbing the very small bit of milk that landed on his shirt. He smacked the man's hand off and harshened his glare on him. "I'm fine. Watch your hands."

Sergey sighed and put his hands up, walking away from Creed as he stepped over to what looked to be a full box. While Creed was distracted by Sergey, Lin had made his way over to Train to finish the task the silver man started, wiping the cat's face clean. Creed felt the urge to protest, but since he knew that Train was his, he allowed his beloved the space he needed to let Lin down easy. He watched as Train sighed and gently pushed Lin's hands away, smiling kindly at his ex-lover.

"I got it, Lin. Thank you, though."

Lin moaned quietly at the slight contact with his Sweetness, his heart dropping when Train let him go. As that scene unfolded, Rinslet stood there in shock, not sure what to say or do. However, when she saw Lin walk over and try to clean Train off, something clicked in her mind as she finally found her voice to yell at the men.

"HEY! I'M THE ONE THAT GOT COVERED! THROW SOME TOWELS MY WAY!"

Her request was granted as Train used his Tao to float the paper towels Creed was using on him to the woman. When they hit her in the face, Rinslet grabbed them and glared at the cat who seemed to already forget her problem. She looked around the room to see the rest of the occupants also didn't seem to care about her strife as they slowly began to gather full boxes. Anastasia was the only one who wasn't carrying boxes, but she still didn't seem to care about the thief's state which Rinslet wasn't surprised at in the least. Knowing it wasn't going to be worth yelling at anyone anymore, Rinslet began drying herself off.

As he did so, he felt someone take the towels from her and dab lightly at her face. She blinked at the new hands, then sighed at the man behind them. "Took you long enough to get here…"

Jenos frowned at the thief as he dabbed lightly at her cheek. "It's only twelve oh seven…"

Rinslet rolled her eyes. "Yeah, and I said noon. And don't give me that Chronos crap. I know you didn't have any missions today."

Jenos narrowed his eyes slightly at the woman, then pinched the cheek he was cleaning. "Nice to see you too, Rins."

The thief blushed and smiled slightly, then shook her head and pushed the man off her. "Shut up and take a box."

"KURO-SAMA!"

Everyone in the room stopped what they were doing and turned towards the teen that was running towards Train at an alarming speed. As she ran past Rinslet, she knocked the thief over who was caught by Number VII. Train was too surprised at the girl's sudden appearance to react in enough time and he found himself being shoved away from Lin who had managed to find a working spot next to him. The cat was knocked to the ground with an adoring Kyoko sitting on top of him, trying to get in a kiss Train was desperately trying to avoid.

"UGH! GET OFF! WHAT ARE YOU EVEN DOING HERE?!" Train glared at Sven with last words since the question was directed at him.

Sven shrugged his shoulders as he picked up a box and walked away. "As Sergey said before, there's a lot of stuff and we know there's more than one place like this. We need all the help we can get."

Train felt the color drain from his face. "Does that mean…"

"GET OFF OF SUGARPLUM! HE DOESN'T LIKE YOU!"

Train was relieved to have the girl removed from his chest, but then yelped when another girl about the same size replaced her. Aliane sat on his chest, crossing her arms against her chest as she glared at Kyoko. Train groaned as he looked over at a confused Creed who seemed more concerned at Aliane being there than Kyoko. The cat blinked at his lover, then frowned when he pieced together the same thing Creed had.

Sven told them about this place? Does that mean they know what the mansions used to function as? Most importantly, did they see me use my Tao just now?

Train sat up and pushed Aliane off him, ready to voice his concerns to Sven who was helping Nica pick up a box, the woman smiling warmly at the sweeper who blushed slightly at the small contact their hands made. Just as Train was about to open his mouth, Eve walked up behind the two of them, waiting for Aliane to walk away and fight with Kyoko before she spoke.

The bio-girl watched as Creed helped Train stand up. "We told them this place was owned by Creed's grandfather who recently passed away and we're helping you pack up. That's also how we were able to describe your extended absence." Seeing the worried look on Train's face, Eve rolled her eyes. "And I'm positive they didn't see you use your Tao just now. Calm down. We know you want to protect them from that part of our lives."

They both sighed in relief and nodded at the girl. Sephiria didn't want them to know about their Tao, the Apostles, or Chronos because she didn't trust them, but they did it purely out of care for their friends. They knew if they entered the world of the Apostles, that meant they would also enter the war with Chronos which is something they would do anything to keep from happening. The last thing any of them wanted was for innocent people to enter a bloody war.

Creed brushed Train off and straightened out his shirt, really just using it as an excuse to touch his love as he spoke to Eve. "Did you also tell th-"

"-Yes, I told them you were back together. Kyoko and Aliane weren't happy about it, but I told them to accept it and move on. Really, Creed, do you want me to just get a mega phone so you can announce it to the world?"

Creed giggled at Eve's joke, then put out an expectant hand towards her. "I mean… I know you can make one with your Nanomachines, so…"

Eve rolled her eyes and smacked his hand away. "Not in front of the others."

Creed smiled merrily at her, then turned back to his beloved so he could rest his forehead against Train's for a second longer, wanting to enjoy the way his lover's eyes gazed fondly into his own before they went back to the tasks at hand. "That's a good cover story, Eve. Thank you."

"I don't think that was a good idea…"

The three of them turned to see Lin holding a box, walking towards them so he could whisper as he watched their new friends uneasily. Seeing they were confused by his statement, he clarified. "Sephiria still doesn't trust them and this was a safe place. Now that they know where this place is, you have one less safe place."

Train frowned at the shorter man, then glanced at Nica who was brushing something out of a beet red Sven's hair. "You've spent more time with them… Do you really think they're Apostles?"

Lin watched as Aliane and Kyoko fought, but carried boxes out of the door nonetheless, then looked back at his Sweetness. "It's not for me to say, Train, and you know it. I just follow orders and Sephiria says we can't trust them."

Creed sighed as he began to fill another box with canned foods, happy to see Sergey walk over to Aimee to help her carry boxes to Anastasia's car, allowing them to speak freely. "We understand your orders, Lin. But I think Train was asking for your opinion. Not Sephiria's."

Lin frowned at Creed, then looked back at Train who was giving him a pleading look. Number X's heart lifted when his dark eyes locked with his sweet love's golden ones, wanting nothing more than to throw himself at the man he loved, but he restrained himself. Instead, he smiled warmly at Train. "If you trust them, Train, then I trust them. But, my orders are my orders and you know I need to inform Sephiria that they've been here now, right?"

Train sighed and ran his fingers through his hair. "I know… But, it comforts me to know you at least trust me enough not to scold me."

Lin's smile got warmer as he watched Train help his partner pack up a box. "I trust you more than anyone else in the world, Train. You know that…"

He made sure his words were quiet enough that neither Train nor Creed heard them since he didn't want to disturb the couple as they began another loving conversation. Lin sighed wistfully as he watched Train for a few more seconds, his heart breaking when he saw Creed playfully shove the cat, which earned the silver haired man a kiss on the cheek. Just as he felt a tear about to fall from his eye, he felt someone grab his elbow and pull him away.

Lin jumped a little as he tried to settle the box in his arms, then frowned at Rinslet who was dragging him across the room. "Give me a little bit of warning next time."

The thief rolled her eyes as she pulled Lin as far away from Train as possible, bringing him over to where she, Aimee, and Sergey were gathering boxes. "Is that my thanks for saving you from heartbreak?"

Lin blinked at her, then glanced over his shoulder and felt like weeping when he saw the look Train was giving Creed. He sighed and gave Rinslet a grateful smile. "Thanks…"

She winked at him, then let go of his arm since she knew he would willingly follow her.

Eve waited for them to walk away, then turned to Creed again, trying to catch his attention so she could speak with him alone for a second. It was a difficult task to accomplish since the swordsman had said something to Train that earned him a kiss, dazing her silver friend for a moment.

The bio-girl rolled her eyes and pinched Creed's shoulder, making him turn to give her a harsh look. When he saw her gesturing for him to follow, he sigh and kissed Train on the cheek, then stood to walk after his young friend.

As soon as they were far enough away from the others, Eve reached into a bag she was carrying which Creed only just now noticed. He wasn't surprised since he was too preoccupied with his beloved to fully take in his surroundings. That happened all the time when Train was around and he didn't sense an imminent danger.

"Are those Train's birthday presents?"

Eve nodded, not surprised that Creed was able to remember what it was since it had to do with Train. "Yes. And I didn't want to give you them in front of him. Do you want me to put them somewhere?"

Creed shook his head. "No. I'll take them. This is our last night in the mansion, so I'm going to give him the ukulele tonight."

Eve nodded and handed the bag over, watching as her friend stored them in a cabinet. She frowned. "Do you need me to remind you about it later tonight?"

Creed froze, realizing Eve was trying to be kind about what she said, but her words stung nonetheless. "Yes, please. Around six? I'll set a reminder in my phone as well."

Eve nodded and did the same with her phone, then locked it as she put it back in her pocket. "How are you feeling otherwise?"

Creed shut the cabinets and looked over his shoulder to make sure Train wasn't looking at him. He smiled as he watched his beloved open another dehydrated ice cream bar. "Wonderful…"

Eve heard the loving tone in Creed's voice and smiled. "Good."

Creed rolled his eyes as Aliane jumped onto Train's back, Kyoko screaming at the teen as she tried to pry the oboe player off the cat. "Where's Kenneth? Isn't he not allowed to be alone?"

Eve nodded as she watched Train yell at the both of them to leave him alone. "He's napping at the hideout. And you know how long he naps for."

Creed nodded and sighed beautifully as Train pouted and ate his dehydrated ice cream bar, trying to ignore the teens arguing over him. "Yes, but is that wise? What if he wakes up and wanders off?"

Eve smiled proudly. "I covered that by putting a lock on the outside of his door and window. He can't get out and there's nothing in the room he can use to hurt himself."

Creed unwillingly pried his eyes away from the adorable scene of Train sulking over a box of food he was trying to pack and smiled at Eve. "You're such a clever girl."

Eve shrugged her shoulders as she walked away from Creed. "I know."

Creed blinked at her confident answer, shocked to hear the girl say something so assuredly about herself. As she walked away, he was able to see what Train was talking about her getting taller. It became more clear how much older she was getting as she scolded her students, making both the girls lower their heads as they walked away from Train. The cat smiled cheekily at Eve, thanking the 'Little' Princess as she rolled her eyes and chided him for eating the food instead of packing it. Creed giggled at the similarities he shared with the girl, sighing as he watched her help Train organize the food.

She's as tall as Kyoko and Aliane are, but what's more astounding is her maturing personality. A year ago, I don't think I'd expect her to speak so confidently of her own abilities. But now, she seems to be able to find pride in even the smallest things she does.

Creed smiled at the girl as she tucked some of her golden hair behind her ear, ashamed that he had forgotten the conversation he had with Eve and praying he wouldn't forget that moment.

I know Train says we're lucky it wasn't worse, but… if I forget watching her grow up, I won't be able to forgive myself.

He sighed and walked back towards his friends to continue helping them pack.

---

Train was laying in the rose garden waiting for Creed and decided to pass the time by staring up at the evening sky. He had his hands resting behind his head, ankles crossed as his eyes scanned the coral heavens for any clouds that might have taken the shape of something he could recognize. It didn't matter what it was, as long as he could put a name to it. He was wearing black pants and a button up shirt that he left open so he could feel the setting sun warm his chest and the sultry wind brush against his slightly tanned skin. He also knew Creed wouldn't mind the view when he got there and he enjoyed teasing the man.

Even though he knows he can have me pretty much any time he wants, it's fun watching him sweat.

Train laughed at himself. He wasn't sure why his lover had asked him to wait specifically at that spot, but he had a feeling it had something to do with his birthday. Creed hadn't let go of the fact that he didn't get to shower Train with the gifts he so meticulously picked out and the cat had known his partner long enough to know when he was planning something for the evening. Train continued to tell him to let it go because the best gift he could have gotten was being with Creed again. But, no matter how happy that sentiment made the silver man, he claimed he still needed the golden man to know how much he was loved.

After everything we've been through since the day we left Chronos any reasonable person would know his feelings for me. Scratch that, from the day that we met he's been doing nothing but showing me time and time again how much he loves me.

Train smiled warmly at the thought. When they were partners in Chronos and even for a while when they ran the Apostles, he didn't care much for Creed and the man's loving gestures only annoyed and confused him. Now, he found himself craving whatever attention he could get from his lover, and Creed was more than willing to give him anything he wanted. Creed stated over and over again that if he could give Train the sun, stars, and moon, he would.

I know he found out he could name a star after me, but he said that was too high school romance and no stars were 'worthy of my name'. And now I think he's looking into naming a planet after me. But, I'm pretty sure you need to discover the planet in order to name it.

Train smirked at the idea of Creed using a telescope to search the skies for a new planet and he didn't doubt that's what the man would be doing every night if he had the means. The cat even began to contemplate the idea of buying his lover a telescope or at least find a place where he could have access to it mostly so Creed would stop obsessing over finding something in the universe that he deemed worthy enough for Train.

It would also just be amusing to watch. And maybe even fun for us both to gaze at the stars together. It's one of our favorite pastimes.

Train felt his heart lift at the idea and decided to put a pin in it for later. For now, he decided to watch the run slowly set over the horizon. Their friends had left hours ago and taken various boxes to different locations. Anastasia, Sergey, and Aimee brought clothes and food to the foster care organization the old woman adopted Aimee at and Sergey went with them to help carry boxes. Rinslet, Jenos, and Lin went to several homeless shelters to disperse more food and clothes to those in need. Nica went through and collected whatever clothes she felt her family could use, then the rest of their sweeper friends split up to various locations to donate whatever they didn't take. They had been packing up and working on that specific mansion for several days which meant that it was not completely empty.

Which also means tonight is our last night. That's probably why Creed wanted to try and set up this romantic scene. Even though he didn't really have to set it up. All he had to do was tell me to wait at this spot during the most ideal time of the day and nature did the rest.

As Train watched the sun slowly set, he knew his lover had accomplished the task of setting a corny, yet maudlin scene. The spot Creed told him to wait was at the top of the hill of the garden, giving him a perfect view of the sunset. The time of day positioned the sun so it was half above and below the horizon, giving the sky an orange-red tint. The listless clouds had spread out perfectly through the air, although Train knew the sunset and time of day didn't have anything to do with that. That was just luck. The roses danced casually in the slight breeze, a few petals falling off and floating adroitly through the zephyr, occasionally brushing against Train's face and body in a whimsical manner. In the distance, Train could ever see the moon peak out from behind the setting sun, letting him know the day had some to its end.

And so has our time alone… Although, I guess there are three other mansions we need to clear out. I know we can't return to the first one, but maybe we can extend our time alone together by staying at the other mansions.

Train decided to bring that up with Creed the next chance he got. As much as he missed his sweeper friends, spending all that time alone with his partner turned into the most amazing seven weeks of his life. After being apart from him for so long, they both agreed that they had a lot of lost time to make up for.

Spending time at the other mansions will not only give us more time together, but more time to find a place of our own. Then we don't have to worry about going back to that crowded house.

His ears perked when he heard footsteps approaching from behind. Train tilted his head back so he could see Creed standing behind him, smiling brightly when he saw his lover gazing adoringly down at him. From the position he was in, he could only see Creed's face since the swordsman was bending slightly to get a better view of Train. The way he was positioned allowed the sun's rays to lighten up his already light skin, his blue eyes shimmering slightly in the orange sky, making Train's heart skip a beat. His silver hair almost looked white from the position of the sun and sky, yet somehow the new shade made Creed look younger. However, Train thought that may have been from the sweet, innocent smile his partner was giving him.

All those years at Chronos and all that time during the Apostles... how did I never see how handsome he is?

Creed smirked when he realized his beloved was memorizing his face the same way he had done for Train's every chance he could. "Enjoying the view?"

Train blushed, aware Creed wasn't talking about the sun, sky, or roses and chuckled nervously. "Y-Yeah. You picked the perfect time of day to sit up here."

Creed chuckled and stood up straight, hands behind his back to hide something from Train. "You know you don't have to be embarrassed about finding me attractive, right? Nor do you have to worry about me catching you enjoying how I look. It only proves how much you love me and it makes me happier than you know."

Train smiled lovingly at Creed as he sat next to him. As soon as his lover was situated on the ground, Train leaned forward, placing his hand around the back of Creed's neck to pull him in for a kiss. Creed accepted the embrace immediately, his hands still behind his back to keep whatever he was holding still. That didn't stop the swordsman from welcoming his love's tongue into his mouth, twirling and swirling around Train's smooth muscle. When he felt Train's hand land on his thigh and caress him gently, Creed knew he was going to forget his primary reason for making his Kitten wait here if he allowed the kiss to continue.

After a few minutes, Creed decided to regretfully break them apart, snuggling his face against Train's as he spoke. "You never fail to take my breath away…"

Train smiled and ran his index finger along Creed's face, shutting his eyes as he pressed the side of his head against his partner's. "Is that a problem?"

Creed shook his head slightly, but not enough that he would push Train's hand away from his face. "Not as long as you promise to give me yours as well."

Train laughed quietly and rested his forehead against Creed's. "You have that and more." His golden eyes flicked to behind his Stallion, cocking an eyebrow at what Creed was holding. "What's that?"

Creed smirked and pulled away from his love, presenting Train with the ukulele he brought two months ago. "A birthday present."

Train rolled his eyes and sat up straight so he could see Creed and the instrument better. "I told you to stop with the birthday gifts. I already have everything I want."

Creed sighed blissfully. "And I told you as happy as hearing you say that makes me, I still need to convey how much I love you. Besides, I already bought it and I don't feel like using up any time I have with you to return it." Seeing Train frowned slightly at him, Creed rolled his eyes and pinched his Kitten's cheek. "Just accept my love, will you?"

Train deepened his frown, but did not push his partner's hand away. "Fine, whatever. That doesn't answer my question though. What is that?"

Creed pulled his hand away from Train's face and placed the instrument on his lap. "What does it look like?"

Train scrutinized the instrument. "Well, it looks like a little guitar, which probably means it's a ukulele."

Creed smirked and poked Train's nose. "Bingo."

Train playfully tried to bite Creed's finger, then eyed the ukulele again. "You know I don't know how to play that, right?"

Creed shrugged his shoulder and began tuning the instrument. "I know. But look at the design. How could I resist something that so obviously needed to be with us?"

Train took that moment to really scan the instrument and knew immediately what Creed meant, then chuckled. "Guess that makes sense…"

Creed turned to Train as he tuned the last string. "Besides that, I can teach you."

Trainl rolled his eyes. "I doubt it."

Creed giggled. "If I can teach you the piano, I can teach you the ukulele. It's far easier. A child could learn it."

Train pouted at his lover. "Are you saying my intelligence equals that of a child?"

Creed frowned, then tickled Train's side slightly, smiling adoringly at the cute noise his beloved made. "If you listened to what else I said, you'd know I also complimented you by teaching you the piano."

Train pushed Creed's hand away before it could tickle him again and glared slightly at him. "That didn't sound like a compliment to me. That sounded like a statement. Besides that, you were the teacher which means you did all the work. Which also means the compliment was aimed at you. I'm sure if it was anyone else teaching me, I wouldn't have learned a thing."

Creed's smile turned even more adoring at his love's words. "Keep talking like that and my heart is going to explode."

Train smiled cheekily and leaned back on his hands. "It's true. You are a great teacher. I'm sure you'll do Anastasia proud."

Creed sighed and strummed quietly at the ukulele. "I don't plan on teaching. I plan on running the business and keeping the current teachers on staff."

Train shrugged his shoulders. "You don't know for sure what will happen. You may end up following in your teacher's footsteps and taking in strays who need music to help them get through life. If anyone knows the power of music, it's you."

Creed laughed quietly and moved himself closer to Train. "You're too sweet, Kitten."

Train watched in confusion as his partner positioned himself so he was behind him, the silver man pulling the cat between his legs and pressing his back against his chest. Before Train could question what he was doing, Creed put Train's hands on the ukulele, left one of the neck of the instrument and right one against the body. Creed gently placed his hands on Train's forearms, helping his cat position himself so he was holding the ukulele correctly.

"You ready?" Creed said as he rested his chin against Train's shoulder.

Train gave his lover a strange look. "Ready for what?"

Creed rolled his eyes. "For your first lesson."

Train frowned. "Right now?"

Creed nodded. "Yes, right now. What better time for it?"

Train deepened his frown. "I just thought you'd want to spend our last night together doing something other than teaching me how to play an instrument."

Creed smirked. "There's plenty of time for other activities. Besides, what's more romantic than performing music in the setting sun surrounded by roses in the arms of the person you love?"

Train felt his whole body get hot, unable to fight with that logic. He nodded his head and strummed a loud, crude, non-existent chord. "Alright, what do I do?"

Creed smiled and positioned Train's fingers on the frets. "The song I want to teach you has nine chords in it, but we'll stick with whatever you can remember. The first chord is C which is very easy. Just put your third finger here."

Train nodded as Creed's hands positioned his fingers, then looked at his lover for approval. Seeing Creed nod, Train asked a question. "Do I strum now?"

Creed checked his love's fingers and seeing that they were not touching any incorrect strings or frets, he nodded. "Go ahead."

Train did as he was told, but a little too roughly making the chord sound horrific. The cat frowned at Creed's giggle and gave him a stubborn look. "Why did that sound so terrible?"

Creed kissed Train's cheek lightly. "Because you did it too hard."

Train rolled his eyes. "You didn't tell me that could happen…"

Creed's laughter did not stop as he rested his right hand on top of Train's. "Use your middle finger and gently caress the strings, like this."

Train watched his partner's fingers, then nodded and mimicked the man. Seeing Creed's approving smile, Train smirked and leaned back into him. "What's the next one?"

Creed kissed Train again, then moved his love's fingers to a different position. "F. First finger here, second finger here, then strum the same way."

Train did as he was told again, then again and again for the next four chords. When he got to the fifth one, Creed made him stop and repeat those same five chords over and over again, until his fingers felt more comfortable switching. He was still moving slow, but with Creed's fingers guiding him, he was able to get the hang of it. As he spent more time getting used to switching, Train slowly relied less on Creed's help and was able to do most of it by himself.

However, when Creed taught him the sixth chord, Train growled a little in frustration. "Why do these two fingers have to be so close together?"

Creed laughed loudly. "Because that's how the chord works, Train."

Train growled at the instrument as if it had done something wrong. "Well, I don't like it. It feels awkward."

Creed snuggled his face into Train's neck. "It'll get easier the more you practice. Honestly, with the chords you already know, you should be a rockstar at the ukulele."

Train cocked an eyebrow, practicing the new chord over and over again until it didn't feel as weird. "Then why are you teaching me so many?"

Creed rolled his eyes and lifted his head. "I told you, because the song I want to play with you requires these chords. Just learn what you can and I'll do the rest."

Train nodded, then stopped as a thought occurred to him. He wanted to make sure he said his words as kindly as possible so as not to hurt his lover's feelings. "How… How did you memorize all these chords? Did you know how to play the ukulele before?"

Creed froze a little, then relaxed when he felt Train kiss his cheek. He sighed and wrapped his arms around his beloved's waist, pulling him in for a tighter hug. "I taught it to myself before the fight with the Apostles. However, other than memories that involve you, music doesn't seem to be something I can forget."

Train smiled and kissed Creed again, then turned back to the ukulele he was holding. "In that case, what's the next chord?"

Creed returned his love's smile and nodded, teaching him the last two chords. He made Train switch between those ones a few times until he was comfortable, but had a feeling that wouldn't happen since they were harder chords to play. After a few minutes, he made him go back to the first one, then through all nine of them in the correct order until he felt like Train was ready enough to perform. He didn't expect his Kitten to get it perfectly, but since he already knew the song they were about to play by heart, he knew it wasn't necessary. Just like when he taught Train the piano, Creed planned on taking the lead.

"Alright, I think we're ready to perform. Do you mind if I sing?"

Train blinked at his partner. "You're going to do what now?"

Creed giggled. "Sing. You've heard me sing before. Why is it so surprising? Do you not like my voice?"

Train shook his head wildly. "No. Your voice is incredible. That's not the problem. I'm not a good singer." He paused and looked at Creed wearily. "Do I have to sing?"

Creed smiled and kissed Train lightly on the lips. "No. You won't know the words anyway. Just follow my lead."

Train smirked and looked back down at the instrument in his hands. "I always do."

Creed sighed blissfully, then helped Train position his fingers correctly for the first chord. They strummed the first chord a few times for the introduction to the song, then when they played the next one, Creed began singing.

"Wise men say

Only fools rush in…"

Train smirked, beginning to recognize the song right away and couldn't help but laugh at the corniness of it. Creed felt his love smile and heard his chuckle, smiling warmly at his cat enjoying the moment, even if it was cheesy. He continued helping Train strum and move his fingers in time with his words.

"But I can't help falling in love with you…"

Creed's voice was a little quiet for that part of the song, helping Train move his fingers back and forth on the strings, making sure his fingers stayed in the correct location as he whispered the words to the song in his ear. Train felt goosebumps go down his body, smiling fondly as he watched his lover's hands guide him through the song.

"Shall I stay?

Would it be a sin

If I can't help falling in love with you?"

Train felt his heart skip several beats at those words, especially because Creed had pressed his lips against his cheek, allowing the cat to feel his breath and his skin brush beautifully against him. His smile grew even more, noticing his hands were able to move more freely on the instrument. He wasn't sure if Creed was taking more control or it was getting easier to play, but no matter what, he knew the man holding him was distracting him enough that he didn't feel like he needed to concentrate on what he was doing as much anymore.

"Like a river flows

Surely to the sea

Darling, so it goes

Some things are meant to be…"

The next part of the song only required him to play the chords once, which allowed Creed to quickly grab his head and turn it towards him, making Train's eyes lock with his own. Since that part of the song was easier, Train was able to fully focus on the passionate look Creed was giving him, the silver man's smile wide and adoring, his eyes shining with nothing but love and devotion for the cat as he nuzzled his face against the gunman's. Train returned Creed's quick kiss, then turned his head back to the instrument for the next part of the song.

"Take my hand

Take my whole life too

For I can't help falling in love with you…"

Train watched as Creed's hand took his gently, squeezing it slightly as it continued guiding him through the song. His soul was more at peace than it had ever been, yet somehow his heart still managed to race so fast he was sure Creed could feel it beating through his back. His entire body was ablaze with a pleasant, earnest warmth. It was a feeling he had come used to feeling when he was around Creed, but right now it was stronger than ever. He didn't know if it was the setting sun, the roses surrounding them, the way Creed held him, the way his voice rang melodically in his ears, how his breath felt against his skin, or the music they were performing together, but something in that moment made Train feel like he had become even more complete. He felt more fulfilled than he ever had in his life.

"Like a river flows

Surely to the sea

Darling, so it goes

Some things are meant to be…"

The song repeated, but now it was slower. They strummed once for each chord and now Train was able to predict it, so he was ready when Creed tried to turn his head. Instead of waiting, Train turned his own head and kissed Creed deeply, stopping him from singing for just a second as their lips met. As soon as he pulled away, Creed continued singing, his voice laughing slightly as they finished the song together.

"Take my hand

Take my whole life too

For I can't help falling in love with you…"

Creed slowed their playing down, stopping the music for a moment as he prepared them for the end of the song. He rested his head against Train's, smiling wonderfully as he squeezed his beloved in his arms, taking that moment of the song to memorize how his cat felt in his arms, as if he was never going to feel him again. Creed kissed Train's neck and shoulder gently, relishing the goosebumps that blessed his Kitten's perfect skin, then pulled back and adjusted Train's hands on the instrument again, singing the last word of the song to the man he loved more than anyone else in the world.

"For I can't help falling in love with you…"

Creed milked the last few words for all they were worth, holding out each chord with a new strum he hadn't taught Train as he whispered the words into the cat's ear. Train pressed the side of his face against Creed's lips, earning him a kiss on the ear as the silver man held on to the word love, then finished the moment with a sigh and a smile.

They sat there for a moment, the sun almost completely replaced by the moon, enjoying the way their bodies fit perfectly together. After a few minutes, Train spoke with a quiet voice. "That was so corny…"

Creed giggled and moved the ukulele to the side so he could hold Train more comfortably. "Is that a bad thing?"

Train shook his head and settled himself into Creed's arms. "No. And I guess I shouldn't expect anything less from you at this point."

Creed nodded and kissed Train's neck. "That's right…"

Train tilted his head so Creed had a little more room to work and as soon as his partner's kisses became more lascivious, he slipped his hand to the back of the silver man's neck and pulled him closer. Creed took that as the signal to keep going and did as his beloved requested. He licked and nibbled up and down Train's neck, then down to his shoulder and repeated his motions there. When he heard his Kitten moan, he slipped his hands under Train's pants and boxers, outlining his lover's shaft delicately as his lips continued sucking at his skin.

"Creed…" Train whispered as he leaned his head back into his partner, spreading his legs so Creed had more room to work. "I love you, Creed…"

Creed felt his heart burst into flames when he heard Train say those words and wrapped his fingers around his cat's member. "And I love you, Train. Ti amo più di quanto tu possa mai sapere…" (1)

Train gasped and let out a silent cry of pleasure as Creed moved his hand back and forth, his hips moving up and down in sync with his lover's as he spoke. "Lo so, perché è quanto ti amo in cambio." (2)

Creed smiled and nibbled at Train's earlobe as his other hand undid his beloved's pants, slipping them along with his boxers down enough that his partner's ass was exposed. Creed had more intended for their time in the garden, so he came prepared and pulled his hand away quickly so he could take a bottle out from his shirt pocket and properly grease himself up. While he did that, Train removed his pants and boxers completely, tossing them to the side as he reached behind himself to search for Creed's member which was still hidden in his pants.

Creed chuckled as Train moaned with want and kissed his neck eagerly. "Give me a minute, Kitten."

Train made an annoyed sound, then moaned as Creed sucked at his skin, forgetting what he was upset about just seconds ago as the silver man worked magic on his neck and shaft. Knowing Train didn't need his fingers to prepare him for love making anymore, Creed slipped his own pants down, skillfully kicking them along with his boxers off and to the side. That motion allowed his cock freedom from its confines which Train took advantage of immediately as he lifted himself up onto Creed's lap.

They let out a loud moan and gasp together as Train lowered himself onto Creed's penis, the silver man entering him slowly so they could enjoy the way they felt becoming one with each other. Once Train was all the way in, the Black Cat relaxed his back into Creed, adjusting himself slightly until he found that sweet spot deep inside him. Creed allowed Train to move himself around, his fingers gripping tightly at his beloved's chest and stomach, his head resting against the back of the gunman's as he lost himself in the way Train's entrance squeezed and moved against him.

"Oh, Train…" Creed whispered, biting his love's shoulder as the golden man moved back and forth on top of him. "Non ci sono parole per descrivere quanto ti senti fantastico…"

Train moaned as he adjusted himself, gasping loudly when he finally found the spot inside his body. Creed felt Train's ass clench up around him and he gasped with his love, thrusting his hips up inadvertently at the feeling as he squeezed Train's body tighter in his arms. Train grasped at Creed's knees when he thrust up, arching his back slightly as his partner hit his sweet spot with a loving force he had become captivated by over the last seven weeks. Creed moved his hips up again and again into his Kitten, moving slow so they could enjoy their moment with one another.

Train cried out breathlessly with each one of Creed's thrusts, his eyes glazed over as he watched the sun turn into the moon, the roses curving down the hills disappearing in the night sky as the man behind him made sweet, gentle love to him. Train arched his back again when Creed's cock pressed firmly against his prostate, making the cat see more than just the stars slowly forming in the sky. Fireworks began to explode underneath his skin and he sparked his body with electricity so Creed could feel the same pleasurable brusts that he felt. When he heard Creed gasp and cry out his name, Train tightened his ass even more, his body flickering with a blue hue that matched the twinkling of the stars above them.

"Creed…!" Train cried out as Creed moved a little fast, his motions still gentle, yet somehow powerful as he continued pulling in and out of him. "Oh, Creed…!"

Creed thrust up a few more times, reveling in the way his cat tightened around him, the way the dark sky, bright moon, and shimmering stars framed Train's body. Every time his beloved twitched and flinched, every time he called out his name, Creed moved even faster, holding Train securely in his arms as he thrust his shaft in and out of the man he loved. The warm breeze brushed against his face causing his silver locks to block the beautiful view of his Kitten thrashing lightly on his lap. Creed groaned in frustration and tucked his hair behind his ear. He continued thrusting in and out of Train, the heat in his groin growing as he knew he was almost ready to climax.

Before he did that, he wanted to make sure Train was properly enjoying himself. Creed gently pushed Train forward so his beloved's chest was pressed against the ground, the cat's arms sliding out in front of him as the silver man leaned over him. From the new position, Creed was able to get a better view of the moon, noticing for a second how large and vivid it was before he turned his eyes down to Train. The Black Cat was clawing at the roses beneath him eagerly as Creed thrust himself deeper into the cat, his cock hitting the golden man's pleasurable spot a bit more forcefully. Creed smirked and pulled himself in and out of Train again, making sure to never miss his mark.

"Train…" Creed moaned as the heat grew and grew, watching as his love trembled sensually underneath of him. "Train… Train… Train…!"

As Creed said his name over and over again, Train cried out loudly and shut his eyes, the stars still visible behind his eyelids which confirmed that the stars he had been seeing were not the ones in the night sky. He screamed again as Creed poked and prodded at his prostate, picking up speed and power as he allowed his body to slide against the flowers and grass, not caring how dirty he might get.

"Oh… God!" Train cried out again, the heat growing and growing with each thrust Creed made. "Oh, Creed!"

Creed heard the level of love and lust in Train's voice and moved his body closer to his cat. He began kissing the back of Train's neck and slid his hand against the one that the gunman used to cling to the roses. Creed tangled his fingers around Train's as he continued thrusting in and out of him, knowing they were going to cum soon and wanting to feel as close to the golden man as he could.

"Train…" Creed moaned into his love's neck, his cock ready to explode as he moved even faster into Train. "Oh, my Kitten…"

Train gasped, moaned, and cried, feeling a bit of pre-cum leave his penis as he squeezed his lover's hand tightly. He moved his face so his lips were pressed against Creed's fingers, biting them slightly as he cried out again and again. Every thrust Creed made into him was better than the last and the heat inside of him was begging for release. Train held on a bit longer, not wanting the night to end just yet, but knowing he wouldn't be able to keep in the love he felt for the man inside him for much longer.

"Creed!" Train cried again, pressing his face harshly against the silver man's fingers. "Oh, God! Faster, my Stallion!"

Creed followed Train's directions and moved faster. He bit down harshly on Train's neck, his lower body about to burst as Train's ass clenched even tighter around him. "Ti amo, Train…" (4)

Train screamed again and again, the fire in his abdomen ready to come out, but he was able to keep it inside to return Creed's words. "Ti amo, Creed…"

Creed pressed his forehead against the back of Train's head, leaning on the ground with the hand that was holding his love's fingers tightly, panting wildly as he thrust in and out of him over and over again. His other hand was wrapped around his cat's waist, holding Train as tight to his body as he could as he continued making sweet love to his beloved. Train squeezed Creed's fingers and felt the heat boil over, the cum dripping out of him slowly as he tried to hold on a little longer. However, as Creed picked up the speed and the strength of his thrusts, each one hitting their mark dead on, the fire in his groin became too savage to control. Train threw his head back and screamed Creed's name wildly into the air, his cock releasing its semen, staining the beautiful flowers beneath them. Creed felt Train's ass clench around him which evoked the cum out of him, calling out his love's name in response as he released his seed into the golden man.

Once Creed was emptied of his essence, he fell against Train who was laying flat on the ground. They stay like that for several minutes trying to catch their breath from the intense love making they just experienced. Every breath Train took in was filled with the sweet scent of roses mixed with the warm night air and Creed's nostrils were continuously welcomed with the luscious aroma of his exquisite Kitten.

Creed refused to remove himself from Train as he kissed the back of his neck over and over again. "Was that corny?"

Train laughed and kissed Creed's fingers that were still wrapped around his. "No. That was amazing…"

Creed chuckled and nuzzled his nose against Train's neck. "I know I keep saying this, but… I love you, Train."

Train smiled and shut his eyes, his body exhausted from the sex and ready to fall asleep with the man inside of him. "I love you too, Creed. And I'll never get tired of hearing it or saying it."

Creed sighed and wrapped his arms around Train and rolled them so they were both on their sides but making sure he was still inside the man he loved. He was determined to stay one with Train until his body no longer allowed him to keep that position. Creed kissed Train's neck again and again and squeezed him tightly in his arms as he fell asleep. The weather and the company was too perfect to even think about leaving their surreal location. Instead, they settled into one another arms, allowing the harmonious, soothing sounds of each other and the nightlife to lull them both to sleep.

---

Train spun around in Anastasia's desk chair for the hundredth time as the old woman read through a pile of sheet music quietly on a couch nearby. Amiee sat next to her, a stack of books between the two, courtesy of Eve. Based on how many were, Train had a feeling the bio-girl must have given Aimee a few of the books Creed left behind as well.

Wonder if Creed knows that.

Train shrugged his shoulders, realizing his partner would have offered to give them to the girl anyway. He loved sharing his books with others, especially if they were young and eager to learn. Train couldn't help but smile at that thought.

Creed says he won't make a good teacher, but I actually think he would. He loves knowledge and is more than eager to share that knowledge with others. Based on how quickly he was able to teach me piano and ukulele, I don't know why he doubts himself. If he can teach me, he can teach anyone.

The smile on his face got wider as he thought of the memory, continuing to spin around in the chair as he allowed his thoughts to wander to his lover. Every time he spun around towards Anastasia and Amiee, he kept his eyes on the old woman, making sure his head stayed steady as he studied her frail figure.

She hasn't been looking good… Should I ask her how she's feeling? I'm sure she won't give me a direct answer.

Train opened his mouth to speak, continuing his spinning as he did so, but fell out of his chair as Anastasia threw a thick book in his direction. She glared at the area the cat had fallen behind her desk and spoke in an annoyed tone. "Would you stop spinning like a child?! You're making me dizzy!"

Train sat up quickly behind the desk, rubbing his head that hit the floor rather roughly, noticing Aimee didn't seem to care that one of her books had been thrown. "No one said you had to watch me doing it!"

Anastasia narrowed her eyes at him. "I can see you doing it out of the corner of my eyes."

Train pouted at her as he rested his chin on the desk. "I'm just so BORED! Don't you have anything to do around here other than playing music or reading?"

Anastasia sighed and set her sheet music down. "What do I look like? You're mother?"

Train smirked at her from behind the desk. "No. She was a lot taller."

He yelped again as Anastasia launched another book at him, ducking behind the desk and watching as it crashed against the wall behind him. Train looked back over the desk, seeing the old woman smiling proudly as she went back to her pile of papers and directed his question at the girl sitting next to the old woman. "How many books do you have?!"

Anastasia's smile changed to a smirk as he answered on behalf of her daughter. "I think the better question is how many more books am I willing to throw at you. And the answer to that is: As many as Aimee allows me."

Tran frowned as she patted the pile next to her, noting how Aimee glanced at her mother, then at the cat, then at the pile of books, and shrugged her shoulders as if she still didn't care.

Train's frown changed to a cheeky smile. "I'm just happy to see in your old age you're still able to throw something that heav-"

His sentence was cut off as he had yet another book launched at him, one that was bigger than the first two as it nearly put a hole in the wall behind them. Train blinked at the spot, then looked over at her again. "Are you really prepared to destroy your office just to hit me?"

Anastasia shrugged her shoulders. "Maybe."

Train frowned again. "Creed won't like it if you hurt me."

Anastasia laughed loudly. "On the contrary! I actually think I'm the only one that can hurt you without him getting angry! As much as he loves you, he's too scared of me to ever truly be angry with me."

Train rolled his eyes at the true statement, then smiled. "I think scared is the wrong word. He admires you too much."

Anstasia brushed his words aside and sighed. "What time did Creed say he was going to meet you?"

Train glanced at the clock on the wall. "He wasn't specific. He just said around lunch time. But he made me swear I'd be here just before noon. He said I needed to be here early for the surprise."

Anastasia cocked an eyebrow at the cat. "That's not like Creed to be so vague."

Train sighed and nodded in agreement as he sat back in the spinny chair. "That's what I said to him, but he said he had his reasons and couldn't necessarily predict when he'd be here since part of the surprise could be running late."

Anastasia frowned. "Is this more belated birthday crap?"

Train nodded as he spun in the chair again, but slowly now so as not to anger the woman again. "I think so. I keep telling him to stop, but he refuses."

The woman sighed and glanced at the clock. "Why did he want you to meet here? Why not at the sweeper hideout? Or even that hotel you've been staying at?"

Train shrugged his shoulders. "No idea. I don't usually question what he does since there's usually a good reason for it and he's never let me down."

Anastasia smirked at Train's loving smile, then went back to marking her students' sheet music. "Have you found a place to live by yourselves yet?"

Train frowned and shook his head. "No…"

He brought up the idea of staying at the other mansions instead of going back with their friends, but Creed pointed out they were extremely far away which would make it impossible for them to stay in contact with everyone else since cell phone coverage would be scarce. The one they were staying at was already an inconvenience, but if they stayed somewhere else, it'd be even more difficult to keep their sweeping missions with their friends.

Train pouted. "What does the distance matter when I can just flash us wherever we need to go?"

Creed smiled adoringly at his Kitten and pinched his cheek. "First of all, our cell phones might not even have a signal out there and we'd have a weak internet connection. Those locations were only set up as a worst case scenario. I didn't intend on using them unless absolutely necessary. And even if we did have to use them, I didn't intend on staying there long. It's hard to live in those spots in the modern day. Especially if you have friends you want to stay in contact with."

Creed giggled at Train's childish puff and continued. "Second, need I remind you how terrible you are with getting us to the right location? We missed several sweeps because of your awful inner compass."

Train growled and smacked his lover's hand away. "I'm getting better! And that last mission was not my fault! Sven gave terrible directions."

Creed giggled and shrugged his shoulders. "Those aren't the only reasons, Train. I know you well enough to know that the other locations would drive you insane."

Train cocked an eyebrow at his partner. "Why?"

Creed sighed and leaned against his beloved, running his finger up and down Train's chest as he spoke. "Because they're in the middle of nowhere."

Train frowned as he wrapped his arm around Creed's shoulder, pulling the man closer to him as he looked around the garden they still laid in, the sun beginning to rise as they pressed their bodies close to each other. "They're all in the middle of nowhere…"

Creed chuckled and kissed Train's shoulder. "Yes, but the other places can't be located on a map. While I know they're safe, I think you'd go insane with how quiet they are."

Train's frown deepened at his words. "I like quiet…"

Creed rolled his eyes and tickled Train's side, laughing at the adorable yelp his love let out. "I know, but I also know with how secluded the other locations are, you'll start clawing at the walls within a week."

Train blocked Creed's hand from tickling him again and rolled over so he could see the silver man better, wrapping his arm around his lover's waist so their bodies were still close. "We won't know unless we try."

Creed sighed, smiling warmly at his Kitten as he rested his forehead against Train's. "As much as I love how badly you want to be in a secluded location with me, I really am thinking of you when I tell you it won't work."

Train made a frustrated sound at the thought of being confined in a small house with almost half a dozen other people. "Don't we have to empty those locations as well anyway? Wouldn't it be easier to stay there while we do that?"

Creed rolled his eyes and began running his lips along Train's exposed collar bone. "We stayed at the other mansion too long. If we start the electricity on a new spot, especially somewhere as closed off as those locations are, it will start to raise alarms."

Train moaned a little as Creed's tongue danced lightly against his skin. "I still don't understand why that's a problem now, but it wasn't when we were with the Apostles."

Creed sighed and nibbled a little at his love's skin. "Because we were bad guys back then."

Train laughed. "Oh, right…"

Creed could still hear the despondency in his beloved's voice and pulled away enough so he could see Train's face. "Just try me when I say we can't do it, okay?"

Train stared into Creed's eyes, then sighed and nodded, relaxing as the silver man's fingers moved up and down his arm. "Okay, fine. Guess Lin told Sephiria about Nica and the other's knowing about the mansions anyway and now she doesn't want us to stay at them anymore. And I really don't feel like having another argument with her. Especially when I know I'll lose since you're not on my side for once."

He felt Creed stiffened and realized his lover had forgotten that conversation happened. Train sighed sadly and lifted his partner's chin up so their eyes met. Once he saw Creed's blue orbs gazing longingly at him, Train smiled, caressed his chin with his thumb, and gave him a sweet, lingering kiss. He kept his lips where they were until Creed was fully relaxed again, then pulled away and ran his fingers through the silver man's hair.

Train smiled, then shivered in delight as the swordsman's other hand slid up the back of his shirt and tickled his lower back. "Has there at least been any luck in the apartment search?"

Creed sighed and leaned into Train's embrace as the cat pulled him closer, pressing their bodies so they were flushed against one another. "No. But if you really don't want to go back to the sweeper hideout, we can get a hotel room for a while."

Train thought about that, then smiled as Creed kissed his jawline. "Okay. Let's do that. Nothing fancy, though."

Creed paused his kisses and blinked up at his love. "Really?"

Train nodded and ran his fingers through Creed's hair, his kisses traveling to the swordsman's neck. "Yeah. Are you saying you want to be stuck in a small house with five other people, two of which are teenage girls that do nothing but argue and molest me all day?"

Creed didn't even need to think about it, but he smiled and sighed as Train's hand slid to his cheek and cupped it gently, the cat's lips never stopping their gentle magic against his neck. "No. I just don't know how I feel about spending our money on a hotel room when we're saving up for our own place…"

Train thought about that, then smiled as he kissed the spot just below Creed's chin. "How about this: We get a hotel room for two weeks, and if we still haven't found a place by then, we'll go back to the sweeper hideout. And we'll make sure it's something cheap so we don't spend too much money. Deal?"

Creed's heart lifted at the idea of Train wanting to work so hard to be alone with him. He wasn't sure how much he liked the idea of spending anything on something that wasn't a permanent residence for them, but he also knew he couldn't say no to Train.

Creed placed his hands on the back of Train's head, pulling the gunman closer to his neck to encourage the cat to kiss a little harder. "Deal."

That was three days ago and they were staying at a hotel not far from Sven and the others. It was small and cheap, but neither of them cares as long as they could be with each other. The first day there Train even found a way to the roof that didn't require them to jump from the outside. Since the weather had been so nice, he ended up spending more of his time up there with Creed. With how much time they spent outside, Train was beginning to wonder if they even needed a roof over their heads.

Anastasia watched the peaceful look on Train' face, knowing he was thinking about his life with his lover and smirked. "You're starting to act more like Creed."

Train jumped a little at her words, taking his feet off the desk as if he just remembered she was still in the room. "How so?"

The woman rolled her eyes. "Daydreaming about the man you love all day? Complaining just for the sake of complaining because he's not here to keep you company? I guarantee you if Creed was here, you wouldn't be nearly as bored and whiney as you are right now."

Train rolled his eyes and spun the chair around again. "Creed would give me something more to do…"

Anastasia sighed. "Sorry I'm not a leaned muscled, silver haired beauty. Guess you'll just have to settle for a short brunette with wrinkled skin and flaccid flesh."

Train smirked as he stopped the chair, leaning his elbows on the table as he stared at her. "Aww, come on, Anastasia. I'm sure you were a heartbreaker in your days."

He yelped and spun the chair away from her as another book was thrown at him, except that time was from the girl sitting next to Anastasia. The one Aimee threw hit the back of the chair and Train turned back around to see the old woman's proud face as she patted her adopted daughter on the head.

She smirked at the cat's cheeky smile and spoke in a teasing tone. "Sorry to say, you wouldn't have been my type."

Train frowned at Aimee, then shrugged his shoulders and went back to his listless spinning. "If that's the case, I'm not sure how I would have gone on."

The woman laughed and looked back at her papers. "You would have managed once you met a certain piano player." A thought occurred to her and she voiced it to Train. "Why don't you practice that song Creed taught you?"

Train sighed. "I did. I almost have it memorized with how much I've played it. And I can play both hands together now!"

Anastasia gave him a proud smile. "How wonderful. Why not learn a new one then?"

Train frowned as he spun the chair around again and again. "I don't know how to read music…"

The woman sighed. "Creed didn't teach you that?"

Train shook his head, but did not stop spinning. "Nope. He said I didn't really need to if I wasn't going to learn more than just the one song."

Anastasia frowned. "Do you want to learn more songs?"

The cat shrugged his shoulders. "I don't know. He gave me that ukulele so I feel like I should get better at that first since I can carry it around with me."

Anastasia blinked and then finally noticed the stringed instrument sitting on her desk. She made an angry noise and glared at the cat. "Are you telling me you had that sitting there the whole time and you didn't think to use that to occupy yourself?"

Train stopped his spinning and stared at the instrument, then at her. "Maybe…"

She rolled her eyes and was about to throw another book at him, but stopped when he pulled up the ukulele to block it. The old woman narrowed her eyes at him and placed the book down. "Why did you bring it with you if you didn't intend to play it while you were waiting?"

Train shrugged his shoulders and fingered the instrument's case idly. "I don't know… I just sort of started bringing it with me everywhere…"

It brings back good memories…

Train's thoughts wandered back to the night three days ago when Creed taught him a few chords and then made love to him in the garden. As many times as they had slept together, that one stuck out in his mind since Creed had gone so out of his way to create such a romantic scene. As much as he wanted his partner to stop showering him with late birthday presents, Train couldn't deny the one in his hands was by far his favorite.

Well, as of right now it is. He says today I'm receiving the last two and they'll be the best of all. Hopefully he's telling the truth and he'll be done after that.

Anastasia noticed Train was getting lost in his thoughts of Creed again and cleared her throat. Once she had the cat's attention back on her, she gestured towards the instrument. "Why don't you play us what you know?"

Train blinked at her, then at the instrument and blushed. "I'm not that good…"

The old woman rolled her eyes. "No one is at first. That's why you practice."

Train frowned. "Creed is good at every instrument he plays the first time."

He yelped as he avoided another book, holding the ukulele protectively to his chest as he did so. Anastasia glowered at him as she spoke. "Don't compare yourself to that freak prodigy! He's the exception to the rule, not the rule itself! We both know Creed's a genius in many ways, so don't beat yourself up just because your lover is a perfect specimen of a musician."

Train's frown slowly turned into a smile as he nodded and took the instrument out of its case. Anastasia watched as he tuned it, blinking in surprise as he did it correctly. "Did Creed teach you how to tune it?"

Train nodded. "Yes. He even gave me this thing to help."

Anastasia looked at the tuner attached to the top of the ukulele and nodded. "That's used for a lot of string instruments since they need to be tuned constantly. After a while you, might not need it anymore."

Train sighed. "Creed said that too, but I doubt it."

The old woman smiled at him. "You'd be surprised." Seeing he finished tuning it, but didn't start playing she sighed. "Well?"

Train blushed again. "Can you… look away or something? Like I said, I'm not very good…"

Anastasia rolled her eyes and looked back down at her papers, gesturing with her hand for him to proceed. Since Aimee pretty much never paid attention to Train or anyone else for that matter, she didn't bother changing what she was doing. Once Train saw she wasn't looking at him, he strummed a few chords to warm up his fingers, then began playing the song Creed taught him. It was the only one he knew and since it was attached to something that had quickly become such a fond memory, Train played it every day since he got the instrument.

As he played, he went over the events of that night in his head, remembering the way Creed's lips felt against his own, the way his partner's arms and hands warmed his body in more ways than one, the way his Stallion smelled and tasted, and most of all the way Creed felt being inside him. He could hear the swordsman's voice singing the song in his ear, making Train smile serenely as he played the last few chords, his body burning with desire to see Creed again despite the fact he had only seen him a few hours ago.

When he finished, he heard Anastasia clapping and noticing Aimee's attention was on him for once, which made him blush again as he spun away from the pair. "Th-that's the only one I know…"

The old woman snickered. "Was that Elvis?" Seeing Train nod behind the chair, she tilted her head. "How long have you had it?"

Train plucked idly at the strings as he kept spinning the chair. "Three days…"

The woman blinked. "Wow. That was actually pretty good for only three days."

Train smiled a little. "I had a good teacher… Plus, it helps me relax, so I've been playing it a lot."

Anastasia nodded in understanding. "Music does that to people. And the ukulele is known to be a relaxing instrument. Did you know you can easily look up how to play more songs on the internet?"

Train stopped spinning and looked at her. "Really?"

She nodded. "Really. Use that computer there and see for yourself."

Train set the instrument down and did as he was told, then frowned at the password entry option. "Password?"

Anastasia smiled. "My wife's name."

Train returned her smile and typed the name in, since he already knew what it was. Once it was unlocked, he opened a search engine, thought about what to type, and then hit enter. His eyes widened at the videos that popped up, overwhelmed by the amount of links he could click.

"Wow, there's so much!"

The woman rolled her eyes as she flipped through her pages. "You say that as if you've never been on the internet before."

Train stuck his tongue out at her, then began clicking on links, trying to find a song he might like. Once he found a few, he opened them up in new tabs, playing through them one by one until he found one he thought was easy and fitting for his feelings for Creed.

As he strummed through the chords of the new song, he sighed sadly. "Wish I could sing…"

Anastasia looked at him curiously, knowing he didn't mean to say that outloud, but not caring if she was about to embarrass him. "Why's that?"

Train's face turned beet red at his outspoken thoughts, then shook his head. "N-no reason…"

The old woman smiled, knowing the cat most likely wanted to perform a song for his lover the way Creed had performed songs for him many times befores.

It's adorable how much he wants to make up for rejecting Creed so many times. I wish he'd realize Creed doesn't need any of that as long as he has him.

A knock at the door brought everyone's attention towards it, making Train pause the video he was watching and Anastasia set her papers down. "Come in."

They were surprised to see Nica enter the room, her face looking happy as always as she opened the door tentatively. "May I enter?"

Anastasia rolled her eyes. "That's why come in means. What brings you here? Aliane doesn't have a lesson today."

Nica nodded her head as she stepped into the room, making sure the door was wide open as she smiled kindly at Aimee and Train. "I know. She left some books here yesterday and I wanted to ask you which room she was using so I could look."

The old woman smiled and gestured at Aimee. "Aimee can show you the room. Aimee, be a dear an-"

Her sentence was cut off when a flash of bright blue light appeared in front of her as Train dashed from behind the desk and caught a dagger that was aimed at her forehead. He had it pinched between his fingers, bleeding slightly from the clumsy reaction since he wasn't prepared for the sudden attack. Train swiped his hand to the side as another was thrown at Aimee's head, using the air around him to push it aside as he caught a third one in his other hand. The forth one was aimed at his chest, which managed to stop by controlling the air around it.

Anastasia and Aimee froze, staring up in shock at Train not only protecting them from almost being stabbed, but also at the fact that they were suddenly attacked by an invisible enemy. Train stayed where he was, looking behind Nica since she had clearly not been the one to throw the daggers, but noting her unusually calm nature at the encounter. He leaned to the side slightly, knowing the daggers had come from behind her and were specifically aimed at everyone except her.

Train flipped the daggers in his fingers, holding them tightly in his hand as he grabbed the floating one and aimed them forward. He didn't fight with daggers, but that didn't mean he didn't know how to. "Show yourself!"

Train blinked when the daggers disappeared from his hands. He immediately reached for Hades, but was shocked to see it wasn't there. He patted himself down to feel if maybe he had placed it somewhere else on his body, but upon seeing it was nowhere to be found, he felt his heart begin to race a little faster. Despite his powerful Tao, he was never without his precious gun and he felt a bit naked without it. His ears perked as he heard a giggle, feeling as though he recognized it and turned around to see Hades seemingly floating in the air on top of a tall bookshelf that was tucked away in the corner of the office. It spun around in a circle, as if someone was twirling it on their finger.

"It's such a pleasure seeing the Black Cat in action for real! Oh, this is going to be so much fun!"

Train heart dropped when he heard that voice since he knew it all too well. "Aliane…?"

Aliane revealed herself on top of the bookshelf, her legs crossed as she spun Hades on her index finger. She winked at Train before she spoke. "You're even cuter when you're mad…"

Train mind froze as he stared at the girl, not sure what to make of the situation, but not having the time to process it as another dagger was thrown at his face. He swiped it to the side along with the next one then turned around and grabbed Anastasia in one hand, Aimee in the other. Before he could run off with them, a cloud of purple smoke circled him, blurring his vision slightly as he felt his body wobble. Looking over his shoulder, he saw Nica's eyes glowing a bright lavendar, a sinister smirk on her face as his eyes followed the cloud surrounding him that led back to the woman.

Train growled as he sparked his body with electricity, burning the purple gas around him and regaining his senses. "What the hell is going on?!"

Aliane sighed half in disappointment, half in happiness. "My Sugarplum is cute, but dumb… Have you really not figured it out yet?"

"Maybe we need to be a little more blunt with him, dear daughter…"

Train pulled Anastasia and Aimee against him, picking them up slightly as he prepared himself to run when the owner of the new voice revealed himself. Watts stepped through the door behind Nica, whose entire body was still glowing with a purple hue. Watts smirked as he swiped his hand in the air, making several daggers appear above his head.

Train glowered at him, but somehow managed a smirk despite the slow realization that he was caught in the middle of a betrayal. "Can't say I miss seeing that mug of yours…"

Watts returned his evil smirk and flicked his wrist so the daggers were aimed at Train and his friends. "The feeling is mutual."

Train pulled both Anastasia and Aimee to the ground, allowing the daggers to soar above their heads and crash through the window behind them. He sparked his body again to burn the purple cloud that tried to capture him once more, then wrapped both his arms around the women he held. As he jumped through the window, he flicked his fingers to replace the broken glass with a thick sheet of ice, knowing that wouldn't stop his foes, but praying it would at least buy him some time.

As soon as they were outside, Train flashed them all to the ground. When they landed, he set the ladies down and Anastasia collapsed immediately, coughing wildly as she began to dry heave. Aimee was at her side in an instant, looking her over with worried eyes before turning back to Train with a knowing look.

Train cursed under his breath and clenched his fists. "That's right, I can't transport her that way, can I?"

Aimee shook her head and blinked at Train, as if trying to ask the man what they were going to do. Train gritted his teeth and clenched his fists.

I can't leave her alone to get Aimee out of here. There's no way I'd make it back in time before they do something to her.

Train scooped Anastasia up bridal style and knelt down for Aimee to climb on his back. The girl was confused at first, but when she saw the look in the cat's eyes, she knew what he wanted her to do. As soon as she was settled, Train stood up and began to sprint down the street they landed on, heading towards the main road that led to the entrance of the music school. The school was in a pretty secluded location, fairly far away from the city so he wasn't worried about civilians getting caught in the fight. When he reached the front lawn on the building, he stopped when he saw Kenneth standing there, cackling wildly at him.

Train growled. "You too?!"

Before he could start running again, he felt the earth beneath him begin to shake. Train looked down and widened his eyes as he watched the ground in front of him shoot up in the air, blocking his path forward. He turned to the side to run another direction, but that too was blocked by another tall wall of Earth. The same thing happened behind him and on his other side, trapped them in a cubicle of dirt and grass. Train squatted down and looked up, prepared to launch the three of them high in the air when he shouted another curse as the sky was blocked by more of the ground. The sides curved around and entombed them in a dome of dirt.

Kenneth continued cackling wildly as Aliane joined him. She was the first one to arrive since she could float through the walls of the building. Using her sight, she could see Train setting his companions down and beating at the walls as if that would help him escape.

She giggled and sighed blissfully, getting a twisted enjoyment out of the fact that her crush was trapped. "This may sound messed up, but… I kind of like seeing him so helpless."

Kenneth cackled even louder as he pushed his hands together, making the walls close in slightly on the trapped trio. He did it a few more times, his laughter only getting louder the smaller he made their confides.

Alaine gasped as she saw Train struggling against the walls, trying to keep the women trapped with him safe.

This is no longer endearing.

When she looked at Anastasia, Aliane noticed she looked as though she was about to pass out. She turned to the old man and slapped his hands. "STOP THAT! We don't want to kill him, remember?!"

Kenneth laughed at her. "Trapped cat is like a trapped rat!"

Not sure what he meant, Aliane turned her arm invisible, then slipped it through and inside the old man's. Using her own strength, she pulled his arm away, making sure he couldn't continue pushing the earth around their captive enemies. "We're not killing any of them yet!

"She's right, Kenneth. We need to take the Black Cat alive." Nica said as she approached from behind, Watts following close behind her.

Watts glared at the woman as they approached their comrades. "I told you you shouldn't have knocked! We should have just barged in there and killed the old bat!"

Nica returned his glare. "Knocking at the door wasn't what made him get away…"

Watts fumed. "What are you implying…?"

"I'M THE ONE WHO KNOCKS!" Kenneth yelled as he pulled his arm free of Aliane's control and pushed in the walls of the trapped trio again.

Aliane screamed at him to stop again and Watts looked at the giant dome of dirt in front of them. "Is the Black Cat in there?"

Kenneth cackled again as Aliane took control of his arms once more. "Schrodinger's cat!"

Nica blinked at his words, then at the dome. "Well done, Kenneth. But, I think we all know that's not going to hold the Black Cat fo-"

Her words were cut off as a giant explosion came from the dome, bits of earth and rocks raining on top of them forcing the Taoist to protect themselves with their arms. Aliane turned herself indivisible so nothing would hit her and watched as her comrades were shoved away by a forceful blast of air coming from the Black Cat. She watched as her partners flew through the air, each of them grabbing onto trees, bushes, or whatever else they could grab so as not to be pushed away by Train's powerful Tao. They could all hear thunder rumbling around them, knowing full well it came from the man floating in the air in front of them.

Aliane looked up at Train since she was the only one that could and gasped at the sight. The Black Cat looked nothing short of a god, his body sparking with a bright blue electrical tinge, his golden eyes mixing with blue and white flares as he glared down at the Taoists. His arms were outstretched and his fingers were glinting a ferocious bright blue of lightning. Lost in the glory of the powerful man for a minute, Aliane didn't notice when the gunman threw his arms down, launching three lightning bolts down in the directions of her comrades. Each one of them missed, but they all had a feeling that was on purpose since Train refused to kill.

Nica screamed as Train launched another lightning bolt, that one scorching the side of her face and drawing blood. She was clinging desperately to a tall tree, her fingers turning white as she tried to hold on and fight through the powerful winds the Black Cat was creating. Watts bit back a curse as the second lightning bolt seared his back, ripping his shirt and burning his flesh as he wrapped his arms around the only telephone pole on the street. Kenneth laughed when the bolt aimed at him, sliced his side, tearing his jacket sleeve, and causing a trail of blood to pool down his shoulder. He was hiding inside a bush, holding tight to the small branches as he too tried to make it through the storm Train was causing.

Train growled angrily and launched a sheet of ice at Nica, twisting his arms around his body to trap her in the roll. He repeated that gesture with Watts who tried to throw a dagger at it only to have it thrown back at him by the wind. It sliced his cheek, cutting his face open as he too succumbed to the prison of ice. Kenneth saw what happened to his partners and since he knew Train was repeating the same motions on each of them, he used one arm to shoot up another wall of Earth, causing the ice to shatter upon contact.

Kenneth cackly loudly as he threw up another wall, shielding himself from the wind as he caught his breath. "IT'S RAINING CATS AND DOGS!"

Train was too angry to respond to the man's word and instead threw another lightning bolt at the wall protecting the old man, breaking it and revealing the old man who was still clinging to the bush. Kenneth tried again to throw up another wall, but screamed out merrily as Train burned the other side of his body with another lightning bolt. His jacket fell to the ground in tattered pieces, his arms pinned to the side as he too was wrapped in Train's icy embrace.

The Black Cat looked around the area, trying to find Aliane and growling when he did not. However, when a purple cloud began to surround him again, he quickly forgot about the girl and burned the smoke trying to take control of him again. The gunman turned his glare on Nica who cursed under her breath, trying to make herself look brave even though she was sure they were out matched.

I knew he was powerful, but who would have thought he was this powerful?! We even got the drop on him and he's taking us out like we're nothing but aunts!

Nica knew then and there why the Doctor desperately wanted to experiment on him and control him. The Black Cat was on another level. A level she knew was beyond human.

Train scooped his hand up, bringing Nica into the air and closer to him. Once she was close enough that she could hear the cat, Train glared madly at her. "Are you with the Apostles?!"

Nica smirked, but did not answer. Instead, Watts answered for her, his voice mocking as he spoke. "Aliane wasn't kidding! You really are dumb!"

Train turned his glare on the man and clenched his fist, causing the ice to slither further up his body and cover the sides of his face. "I'M NOT TALKING TO YOU!"

Nica flinched at the Black Cat's angry tone, wondering if she was currently catching a glimpse of the murderous man the underworld feared. "Charden sent us in to get close to you and your friends in order to capture you."

Train looked back at her and laughed bitterly. "Yeah, that seems to be going well, doesn't it?"

Nica shivered at the look she was getting, positive that she was experiencing the Black Cat's notorious death stare even though she knew he wouldn't kill her. She growled and clenched her fists. "We're not done yet!"

Seeing the woman try to escape, Train couldn't help but frown, his heart breaking as he thought of his sweeper friend. "What about Sven? Was that all an act too…?"

Nica froze in her struggles, then felt the color fade from her face. She glanced over at Train, seeing the hurt in his eyes and knowing then that all his anger stemmed from the pain he was feeling at being betrayed by these people that he considered friends.

Stop it! Don't feel guilty! That was the whole point of this! You knew what you were getting into when you met them! You shouldn't have gotten attached…

Nica did her best to smirk even though her heart was breaking at the thought of ruining what she just started creating with Sven. "It's all part of the job, my dear Black Cat…"

Train felt a tear fall from his eye and clenched his other fists, making the ice crawl further up her face. As it reached her cheeks, Nica bit her lip to stop herself from crying out, not wanting to show any weaknesses to her enemy.

"DID YOU FORGET ABOUT ME, SUGARPLUM?!"

Train stopped what he was doing and looked down at Aliane. She was standing behind Anastasia holding one of Watt's daggers to her throat. There was another small dome of Earth next to them, leaving Train to believe Aimee was trapped in it. He looked back at Kenneth and Watts, seeing they had slowly been able to free themselves as the ice melted from the heat of the sun. Train was too distracted by the woman in front of him to remember to keep the ice around them strong or have an eye on the people he was protecting. While he had mastered his Tao and his abilities were strong, it was hard to maining more than one weather condition at once.

Train cursed and dropped Nica, the woman falling to the ground as the ice shattered around her. Watts was next to her in a minute, making sure she was okay, but the woman merely brushed him aside. "Stop fussing and get the Black Cat!"

Watts nodded and threw a dagger at Train's back which he managed to dodge without even looking back at the man. With a flick of the gunman's wrist, Watts was thrown to the side and against the wall of the music school. As he slammed into the brick, he felt himself spit up a bit of blood as he bit down on his tongue, nearly severing it from his mouth. As Train began to run at Aliane, Kenneth tried to stop him by throwing up another wall of Earth in front of the cat. The old man laughed wildly as he watched Train easily leap over it and kick himself off on the other side, flying gracefully in the air towards the friends he was determined to protect.

"I thought it was pigs that flew, not cats!"

Nica growled and pushed her hands forward surrounding Train in another cloud of smoke and shouting out to him before he could burn it up again. "IF YOU WANT TO PROTECT THE OLD BAT, THEN I SUGGEST YOU STOP YOUR ATTACKS!"

Train froze as Aliane pressed the dagger further into Anastasia's neck, the woman barely conscious as she tried to figure out what was happening. She was already weak from her illness, and Train's transportation didn't help. Not that any of that mattered anyway. Even in her best shape, she wouldn't be able to fight off the young woman that was holding her still.

Aliane smirked at Train when she saw him suddenly realize every step he took towards them only drove the dagger closer to Anastasia's neck. "That's a good kitty… Now, if you just come with us, we-"

"SHUT THE HELL UP! THERE'S NO WAY I'M GOING WITH YOU!"

Aliane frowned at the man's shout, turning both herself and Anastasia invisible to avoid the ice, lightning, and wind attack Train threw at them. When he was done, she made them both visible again and pouted. "Rude! You didn't even let me finish my sentence! I was going to say if you come with us, we'll make sure the woman and the girl are safe."

Train seemed unconvinced, but his vision was beginning to blur as the purple smoke around him thickened.

She can just avoid all my attacks that easily? And she can transfer her powers to Anastasia? That's ridiculous!

He clenched his fists and fought to stay upright, his body growing weak each time he ingested the gas. "...Why should I believe you?"

Nica was the next one to speak. "Because you know the Apostles want to take you alive, but we have no orders about anyone else's fate. We're simply here to escort you back to the group you helped found."

Train tightened his fists, trying to be careful with his breath so he wouldn't continue to breathe in the poison. It was difficult to do since his adrenaline was racing and his lungs were begging for oxygen. "Fuck you…"

Nica smirked as she stood in front of Train. "Oooh, Kitty got claws! However, I think I'll leave that task to Creed."

Train's eyes widened as he realized Creed was supposed to be there any minute.

I just need to hold out until then. I won't let them take me and I definitely won't let them kill Anastasia or Aimee.

He looked at the old woman, watching as she coughed, more blood falling from her throat as she looked around the area. "A-Aimee…? A-Aimee, where are you?"

Train's rage grew and he heard thunder rumbling around them, knowing that was a clear sign he was starting to lose control of his emotions and therefore his powers.

Stay calm! Just wait for Creed. He'll know what to do.

Watts jumped in front of Anastasia, snapping his fingers as another ten daggers appeared in front of him. He aimed all of them at Anastasia's body and Train was able to tell every single one of them was aimed at a vital point.

The cat widened his eyes and tried to jump forward. "NO! STOP!"

For some reason when Aliane threatened the woman, Train wasn't as worried. There was a look in the girl's eyes that told Train she didn't want to hurt Anastasia, but Watts' eyes told a different story. His entire demeanor screamed that of a wild animal who had been changed up too long and he was finally released. The look he was giving Train told him that he was waiting for the cat to say or do anything that would give him an excuse to end the woman's life.

Watts smirked, eager to kill someone and reveling in the helplessness of the Black Cat. "You know what you have to do to get us to stop…"

Train screamed again as Watts slowly pushed all ten of the daggers in, causing the old woman to scream out agony. He could also hear Aimee screaming in the dome next to them, her words unintelligible as she banged uselessly at the wall. That seemed to make Watts even more eager and his perverse smirk grew as he pushed the daggers in even more, the poor woman's clothes slowly staining with blood.

"STOP, PLEASE!" Train yelled as he coughed on the smoke, barely able to stay upright as he unwillingly breathed in more toxic air.

Watts laughed along with Kenneth, Alaine biting her lip as she pulled her dagger away. She knew they had to do what they were doing, but there was something about seeing Train's demeanor go from deadly to desperate so quickly that made her heart sink. Besides that, it looked like Watts had decided to take over the hostage situation. With that in mind, she stepped away and locked eyes with Nica, who seemed to be fighting her own internal battle at the moment. Aliane was sure it had something to do with the sweeper she had finally and only recently claimed as her own.

Watts ignored both the women and dug the daggers in a little more. "What'll it be, Black Cat? Your freedom or her life?"

Train glared at the man and gritted his teeth, his eyes burning with tears from the pain of being betrayed by people he considered family and the purple fog that relentlessly clouded his vision. He coughed again and fell to one knee, punched the ground as he tried to stay strong. His legs and arms were beginning to shake and he knew if he stayed in that spot for much longer, he was going to pass out and he wouldn't be able to save Anastasis or Aimee.

Where the hell are you, Creed?!

Train looked up and locked eyes with Watts behind the fog, his body wobbling back and forth as he spoke. "Was this the plan all along?! To get close to us and use our friends against us?!"

Watts smirked and poked his nose. "Bingo. Honestly, I'm just shocked at how easily you trusted us."

Train growled, coughed again, then felt the Earth move beneath him. He watched in hazy shock as the ground wrapped around his ankles, rooting him to the ground and making him fall forward on his hands. Train looked over his shoulder to see Kenneth still cackling at him, pulling the ground further up his ankles and to his knees.

Kenneth smirked as clouded, golden eyes locked with his. "Dogs are better than cats because they can be trusted."

Train had a feeling he meant that he was trapped in the ground because the old man didn't trust him not to break free of the poison. He laughed bitterly, then coughed again. "Smart man…"

Watts cleared his throat, bringing Train's attention back to him. "Are you forgetting where the real danger is?"

Train cursed loudly as Anastasia cried out again, her eyes shooting open as she tried to search for her daughter again. However, instead of finding Aimee, she found Train. She smiled warmly at the man, coming out of her daze and putting together quickly what was going on. When she saw the look in the gunman's eyes, she knew what he was thinking and tried to talk him out of it.

"Train… Don't do it. You can't abandon Creed like that."

Train growled at her, feeling a bit of strength return as he tried to free himself from the smoke that was growing thicker by the minute, but left space for his eyes to see the woman slowly dying. "YOU CAN'T EITHER, YOU OLD BAT!"

Anastasia laughed, coughing up a bit of blood as she spoke. "He's prepared for me to leave and he'll be fine without me… But I can't say the same if he loses you."

Train growled loudly and tried to pull his feet free. "DAMMIT! LET ME GO, YOU BASTARDS!"

Watts blinked as Train actually ripped his foot out of the ground, shocked that he was still conscious with all the smoke he had ingested, let alone able to move. He turned to Nica and gave her an accusing look. "Are you going easy on him with the smoke?!"

Nica returned his glare and spat out her words. "Does it look like I'm going easy on him?!"

Watts looked her up and down, seeing she was sweating profusely and her face had turned a dark shade of purple. He could tell she was poisoning herself slightly just to keep the Black Cat in place.

Is… Is this really the strength of Train Heartnet? Is this really what the Black Cat is capable of?

Watts was thrown out of his thoughts as Train released his other foot, cursing as he shouted at Kenneth. "OLD MAN! MAKE IT STRONGER!"

Kenneth complied and wrapped a thicker layer of Earth around Train's legs, making the gunman fall back to his knees and cough even harder on the smoke. Watts sighed in relief when he saw the weakness return to Train's eyes, praying he'd just give in soon so Nica could let go and completely knock him out.

"From what I understand, every bit of blood in this woman's body is precious considering her condition. The longer you wait, the longer she suffers and the more blood she loses." Watts pushed the daggers in even more so they were about two inches into her flesh. He smirked at her screams then turned back to a scowling Train. "What exactly do you think is going to happen?"

Train gritted his teeth and fought back a cough, knowing if he responded he was going to pass out.

Creed… Creed, where are you?

Train watched as Anastasia's eyes turned wistful and she looked into the distance, as if she saw something no one else could see. His heart dropped when he recognized what that look was and matched the volume of Aimee's screams behind the earth dome. "NO! ANASTASIA, IT'S NOT YOUR TIME!"

Anastasia did not look at Train as she spoke. "But it is… And I'm ready." She smiled sadly as a tear fell from her eye and whispered her next words. "I'm ready to see her."

Train's heart shattered as the woman didn't react to the daggers being dug deeper into her, his consciousness leaving him as he clenched his fists and screamed his next words. "STOP IT! I'LL GO WITH YOU! JUST LET THEM GO!"

Everyone was quiet for a minute, then Train watched as the daggers were slowly pulled from the woman's body. The earth surrounding Aimee was slowly released, but not fully. The girl was able to peak her head out to see her mother, tears streaming down her face as she tried to climb out of her prison. Kenneth did not allow it. Each time she almost made it out, he would push the wall up higher so she would stay in place.

Nica did not remove her cloud from around Train and she stepped in front of him, grabbed his chin harshly and pulled his head up. "Are you ready to return to the life you truly belong to, Black Cat?"

Train could barely see the woman behind his clouded eyes, but he nodded his head. "Y-Yes… Just let them go… Please…"

Nica smirked, then turned to Aliane and nodded. The girl pushed a button on her phone, sending a message that Train could only assume were their leaders. He was proven right as seconds later a portal appeared on the side of him, but the smoke did not leave him. When Nica let go of his face, Train fell to the floor in a heap. He used whatever strength he had left to make sure Anastasia and Aimee were alright, and sighed in relief when he saw the old woman was kneeling on her knees, bleeding terrible, but alive.

I'm sorry, Creed… I'll be back before you know it. I promise.

However, just as he felt someone lifting him up onto their shoulder, Train's eyes widened when he saw Watts snap his fingers and make another dagger appear. The man turned to Train, winked at him, then stabbed Anastasia straight through the heart. Train screamed and flailed on the large person who was holding him, something or someone hitting his head repeatedly to get him to stop struggling. It wasn't enough as Train felt blood fill his mouth from the blows, reaching out trying to reach his partner's mentor.

"NO! ANASTASIA, NO! YOU SAID YOU'D LET HER GO!"

Watts twisted the dagger in the woman, then looked back at Train again, his eyes glowing with malevolent darkness. "I lied."

Train screamed and fought the people holding him still, not sure who it was, but also not caring. They carried him to the portal, but Train didn't register what was going on with himself. All he could see was Anastasia's dreamy smile, her eyes locking onto Train's as she spoke her last words.

"Take care of Creed…"

Train watched as the woman looked into the distance again, reaching out her arms to a woman only she could see. She smiled peacefully, then fell to the ground with a soft thump, her eyes shutting as Train watched her soul leave her body. The last thing he saw was Aimee being released from her prison and clinging to her mother, tears falling down her face as she rocked the lifeless body in her small arms. After that, all Train saw was complete and total darkness.

---

Never in a million years did Creed think he would be late because of the woman standing in front of him. While he did believe a woman would be the cause of his tardiness to meet with his beloved, he thought it would be a different woman.

"...Ms. Parass. To what do I owe this pleasure?" Creed had his Imagine Blade drawn and poked at the woman's neck, alert and ready for anyone else to come out.

She appears to be alone… But why?

Echidna put her hands up slowly, closing the portal behind herself as she attempted to lock eyes with her former leader, but he seemed too focused on taking in their surroundings, waiting for someone else to attack. "I came alone."

Creed looked her up and down wearily, his blade never moving from its spot against her neck. "Why?"

Echidna sighed, not sure how to broach the subject with her former love interest and leader. "Because I don't want to fight."

Creed tightened his grip on the hilt of his sword, narrowing his eyes at the actress. "I'm sorry, that didn't answer my question, so I'm afraid I'm going to have to ask it again. Why?"

Echidna wanted to glare at the man, but she knew that would only make him more eager to fight and she knew she couldn't take him by herself.

This was a dumb idea. What the hell is wrong with me?

Then, she thought of Charden, reminding her of the resolve she found to help her partner find himself again.

I'm doing this for him.

She took in a deep breath and spoke again. "I want to talk."

Creed's look grew more bewildered, but he still did not falter his fighting stance. "Talk? You want to talk? What on Earth could you possibly want to talk to me about?!"

Echidna looked down at her feet, hands still raised as she spoke. "About something only someone like you could understand…"

Creed frowned at the woman, extending his blade a bit so it poked at her pearly skin. "What the hell is that supposed to mean?!"

Echidna could see the anger rising in his face and locked eyes with him again. "Feel free to check my body. I'm unarmed."

Creed blinked, his angry thoughts halting at her statement since she sounded so truthful. Her tone did not quiver in the slightest and judging by the unmoving state of her pupils, Creed could tell she was telling the truth.

Echidna was never one to lie. Even at her lowest, she always made sure to tell the truth.

Not wanting to get any closer to her, Creed used his blade to push her coat aside, checking all the normal spots he recalled her pulling grenades from and seeing nothing. Next, he checked her shoes, again using his Imagine Blade to poke and prod around her ankles and heels, but saw nothing fall out. He then curved the blade and patted her back, making the woman stiffen slightly as the sword nearly broke skin, but still saw nothing fall out.

Creed was only mildly convinced and he made sure she knew it. "That doesn't mean I'll back down…"

Echidna rolled her eyes. "That's fine, but we both know you won't kill me. You've grown to… soft for that lifestyle."

Creed glared at her. "There's nothing in the sweeper handbook about not maiming an enemy…"

The woman sighed and shrugged her shoulders. "Sure, Creed. Do what you'd like with me. Cut my arm off, gouge my eyes out, or even stab be through the chest. All I ask is that you hear me out."

Creed frowned, his stance faltering slightly at the look she was giving him.

She looks like how I looked when I lost Train… Did something happen to Charden?

Creed looked around again, then decided to voice his question. "What happened to Charden?"

Echidna blinked in confusion, not sure how the man was able to read her so easily. "H-How did you…?"

Creed rolled his eyes, but kept his sword up. "I know what it looks like to lose the person you love. Is he dead?"

Echidna glared at him, but kept her hands up. "NO!"

Creed sighed. "Captured by Chronos?"

I'm sure Sephiria would have told us immediately if that happened. Echidna also wouldn't be coming to me if that was the case since she knows I wouldn't help.

Echidna gritted her teeth. "No."

Creed glared at her. "Then what the hell do you think I can help you with?"

Echidna was quiet for a second, trying to think of how to word her predicament to the man without giving away that her lover was in danger of losing his soul.

He already knows it has to do with Charden, but he doesn't need to know exactly what's wrong.

She took another deep breath and locked eyes with him. "What would you do if you felt like Train was losing his humanity?"

Creed jumped a little at her blunt, yet vague question. "What do you mean?"

The actress looked down at her feet, her hands beginning to shake with how long they were standing up for and tried to rephrase her question. "If… If Train was physically with you, but emotionally he was gone or… or was turning into something you didn't recognize… what would you do?"

Creed frowned at her, not sure why she was asking him that question and not sure what it had to do with Charden. "What kind of a trap is this…?"

Echidna gave him a pleading look as her eyes shined brightly with unshed tears. "It's not a trap, Creed!"

Creed was shocked not just at her sudden outburst, but also the use of his first name. It then occurred to him she was referring to Train by his first name as well, which she never did even when they were running the Apostles. Still, he didn't understand what she was talking about or what any of her fake scenarios had to do with Charden.

Unless he's falling off the edge like I did… Running a terrorist organization will do that to you.

Creed tried not to think about that. It could be good news for them if Charden was slipping, but there wasn't anything he could do about it in that moment, nor could he confirm it was true or not. He needed to concentrate on Echidna and his surroundings in case anyone jumped out at him. As he watched the woman's normally perfectly poised body slum in a defeated manner, he felt a pang of sympathy for the woman.

After all those years of her needlessly pining for me only to have her advances scorned at every turn, I can't help but pity her. And if anyone can empathize with feeling like you're losing the person you love more than anyone else in the world, it's me.

Creed sighed and lowered his sword only slightly so she could lower her hands a little. "I guess it would depend on what you mean by 'emotionally gone'."

Echidna looked up at the man, grateful that she was permitted to lower her hand. "What?"

Creed glanced back and forth again, double checking that they were alone before he elaborated. "Well, I have seen Train go through several changes over the years I've known him. And he's seen me go through many as well. However, none of those changes ever affected our relationship in a negative way. In fact, our personal growth has made our partnership and relationship stronger than ever."

Echidna growled a little at the reminder that his relationship with the Black Cat was powerful. "You don't need to rub in my face how perfect you and Heartnet are. We can all see it."

Creed chuckled. "There's the angry actress I remember recruiting. But, if you'd allow me to finish, I might actually be able to answer your question."

Although I'm not sure why I feel the need to…

He knew the answer to his hypothetical question already since he answered it earlier. Creed felt bad for her and even a little bit guilty at hurting her all those years ago. After knowing what true heartbreak felt like, Creed didn't like the idea he put anyone else through that. Whether it was someone he considered a friend like Sergey, or an enemy like Echidna, that didn't change that they were humans capable of feeling the same pain he did.

Look at me being all compassionate. Certainly different from what I was at Chronos or the Apostles. I only thought about myself and Train back then.

Seeing Echidna was waiting for him to explain himself, Creed went on. "Despite all the trials and tribulations Train and I have been through and despite how strong our bond is, I don't think I need to remind you he did emotionally leave me for far too long. And do you remember how I handled it?"

Echidna sighed and nodded her head. "You were a mess…"

Creed chuckled. "Yeah, but I got through it, didn't I? And now, I'm better than ever and Train and I are better than ever."

Echidna rolled her shoulders, her arms getting tired as she asked another question. "But… How did you do that? After what you did to Train… How did you get him to be with you again?"

Creed blinked in confusion since her words completely erased his earlier thoughts of Charden slipping over the edge.

Did he leave her? No. No, he'd never do that. I've seen the way he looks at her and I know what he did for her after we left the fight at Jollin's party. He loves her and, as much as I hate to admit it, they work together beautifully running the Apostles. They make a great team.

Seeing she was waiting again, Creed answered. "Patients."

Echidna glared at him. "That won't work!"

Creed sighed and lowered his sword a little more. "Well, then I don't know what to tell you, because that's what I did. I waited until Train was ready and made sure to remind him how much I loved him."

Echidna frowned, realizing he was right, but it didn't really pertain to what her actual question was.

How do I make him understand what I'm asking without letting him know how much trouble this also puts the Apostles in?"

She could tell she was quiet for far too long since Creed's Imagine Blade rose again, as if warning her he wasn't going to hesitate to battle. "But… What if there was something happening to Train that… changed who he was as a person? Something that didn't just make him emotionally unavailable, but something that…" She stopped as she thought of the perfect way to put it. "...Something that turned him back into the notorious killer Black Cat."

Creed didn't skip a beat with his answer. "I'd do whatever it took to bring him back to the light."

Like he did for me.

Echidna locked eyes with the man, seeing the seriousness in the blue depths and asked another question. "What if what you had to do would change your entire world? What if to do that, you had to give up your goal in life."

Creed chuckled. "My goal in life is to be with Train, so if Train was returning to the darkness, my goal would not change. I'd give my life and more for him to be happy. There's nothing I wouldn't do to make sure he had the peace and freedom he has now."

Echidna could tell his last statement was a slight threat, letting her know he still didn't fully believe she didn't have some kind of scheme cooked up. "But what if-"

"-No. There are no 'what ifs' in this scenario. I would do anything to make Train happy. I left Chronos knowing full well they would try to kill me for turning on them and I did it because it was what Train wanted. And as twisted as it is, I murdered hundreds on the off chance that it would make him smile and stole thousand and thousands of dollars worth of material items so he would be comfortable. I built the Apostles so he would be happy and then abandoned the organization I made for him because I knew it wasn't what he wanted anymore. Because I knew it wasn't who he was anymore. And now, I'm going to destroy that same organization so he can be free from both you and Chronos. I'm going to end your reign of terror because I know Train will never truly be free until the Apostles are gone. Because I know you all remind him of something he never wanted to be in the first place."

He watched as her face slowly seemed to reach an understanding, but he wasn't done with his statement yet. "I was willing to take down Chronos for him because it had turned him into something he wasn't. Because they broke him completely. I don't care what my goal or my role outside of Train is because if that goal ever does anything to change who he is as a person, and I can tell he's not happy, I wouldn't hesitate to end it. No matter the cost."

Echidna stared at her former leader, taking in every one of his words and slowly realizing something.

No… No, I can't do that… He wants it more than anything else in the world. Even if he's changing, he wouldn't want to give up all the work we've done to reach our goals…

Still, she could already feel Creed's words haunting her and she had a feeling she'd be playing them over and over again in her dreams. She knew she had a lot of thinking to do and she couldn't stay there any longer.

As she opened her mouth to speak again, her phone began to vibrate in her jacket pocket, making both their eyes lock onto it. Echidna froze, rising her hands up even higher as she tried to explain herself. "I-I need to go."

"DAMMIT, WAIT!"

Creed yelled as he leapt forward to try and catch her, but it was too late. She opened a portal before he could react in enough time and jumped through it. Creed noticed she didn't use her fingers to summon it, telling him she could call portals with only her thoughts now. However, he didn't want to follow her into the Apostles layer by himself. No matter how important it was to know where they were. It was a foolish idea and he wasn't going to do it.

It might have also been a part of their plan. She was also right that I wasn't going to kill her which is why I didn't attack. It's not right to fight her by herself when she's totally unarmed. Even at my lowest I wouldn't have done that.

He cursed and put his blade away, attaching it to his hips in such a way that it wasn't visible to anyone. After Jollin's party, he learned to be extra careful about where he put it. He stared at the spot she disappeared to as if that would bring her back, frowning deeply as he thought of the conversation they just had.

What the hell was that all about? Well, whatever it was, I need to tell Sephiria and Train immediately.

Creed sighed and ran his fingers through his hair, a habit he was starting to realize he picked up from his beloved which only made him want to do it all the more. He pulled out his phone to dial Sephiria since he was on his way to meet Train. He also knew his beloved wouldn't mind him telling Number One first especially since that might change their plans for the day.

What am I talking about? Of course it's going to change our plans. In fact, after I call Sephiria, I'm going to have to call her next.

"Who the hell are you yelling at?"

The voice stopped him from completing his call as he put his phone away. Creed turned around in the alley he stood in, looking at the entrance to see the woman he had told to meet him here.

Wanting to make sure they were still alone, he looked back over his shoulder where Echidna had gone.

Seeing that she was truly gone, he spoke. "No one… Just stubbed my toe."

From what Train's told me, she doesn't know anything about the Apostles or our history with Chronos, so I'm not going to tell her that. I don't want her to get involved.

E put her hands on her hips and looked at Creed's foot. "Is that so? And who were you about to call?"

Creed frowned as he realized the woman saw him take his phone out. "Actually… I was going to call you to reschedule today's lunch…"

E stared at Creed for a second, then stepped towards him. Once she was in front of him, she reached out and grabbed his shirt with both of her hands and shook him back and forth. "WHAT THE FUCK FOR THIS TIME?!"

Creed allowed the woman to shake him since she was fully within her rights to be angry at him for constantly rescheduling their date with Train. "I-I'm sorry! Train just messaged me and said he wasn't feeling well, so I-"

"NO!" E shouted as she stopped shaking him and pointed a finger in his face. "Don't give me that bullshit! All your excuses have been half assed! Does Train want to see me or not?!"

Creed blinked down at the woman, seeing the bit of hurt in her eyes and realizing she meant what she said. "That's not it… Of course he wants to see you again…"

E crossed her arms and turned away from him. "How do you know that if it's a surprise?"

Creed sighed and frowned at the woman's back. "Because I know my lover…"

E smirked and looked over her shoulder at him. "How long were you waiting to work that into the conversation?"

Creed blinked. "What? It's not a surprise for you. I told you the last time we spoke."

E sighed in annoyance. "I know, I was just making a joke." She eyed Creed wearily, then spoke again. "Is Train really not feeling well, or are you just making up another reason not to have me see him because you're worried I'll steal him away from you?"

Creed chuckled at the woman. "You said it yourself, you can't compete with me. Besides, if that's what I was worried about, I wouldn't keep reaching out with you to reschedule."

E glared at him. "Unless this is your way of making me get over ever seeing him again."

Creed smirked deviously at the older woman. "If that was the case, I'd just threaten you to keep you away."

E rolled her eyes. "Yeah, like a guy as nice as you is capable of scaring anyone."

Creed laughed at the irony of her statement.

If that's really how she feels then I have a bridge to sell her.

Creed brushed her words aside. "Besides all that, I never would have tracked you down in the first place if it was only to make sure you stayed away from Train. Why would I welcome competition back into his life?"

E narrowed her eyes at him. "You really don't think I'd ever have a shot with him, do you?"

Creed smiled and shrugged his shoulders. "I mean, have you seen me?"

E couldn't help but laugh at his statement. "Okay, okay, you got me. When are we rescheduling for this time?"

Creed frowned and pulled out his phone, noticing Eve was calling him but decided to ignore it for now. He would call her back soon. "Probably sometime next week. Train should be feeling better by then."

E nodded and looked at her calendar on her phone. "Sounds good. I'm free as a bird next week." She put her phone away and looked behind her at the city Creed had her come to. "Since I'm already all the way out here, anything a single girl can do for fun?"

Creed smirked, knowing exactly what she meant and laughed a little. "Try downtown. You can kill a lot of time there, if you know what I mean..."

E gave him an offended look. "Are you trying to point me in the direction of a hooker, good sir?! I'll have you know I'm a lady! An escort will do just fine."

Creed laughed loudly and ignored another call from Eve. "There's a few food day bars down that way. I'm sure with your personality you'll attract the right crowd in no time."

E turned around quickly and waved at him. "You don't have to remind me. I'm excellent at making quick friends."

Creed chuckled again and waved at her, frowning at his phone as Eve's name popped up again. It was also then he noticed he had unread texts from Aimee, which was something he never got from the selective mute girl. The only reason he even had her number was for emergencies. However, Eve's phone call blocked his easy access to the messages, so he decided to answer her first. For some reason, his heart froze as he swiped up on his phone, placing it next to his ear to greet the girl.

"Eve? Is everything alright?"

Eve's voice was panicked as she spoke. "No. You need to come to the music school now."

Creed felt his body go cold, but he wasn't sure why. "Why? What's wrong?"

Eve's voice sounded frustrated as she spoke, which made Creed even more concerned. "Just get over here NOW!"

The phone hung up and Creed was left staring at it. Eve always was the calm and collected one so the fact that she sounded so scared and angry made Creed feel like throwing up.

Did something happen to Train? What could possibly have happened with him at the music school? Doesn't Chronos always have eyes on them just in case the Apostles strike?

Creed took a deep breath at that, realizing it was true and there was no way it was the worst case scenario. That didn't change the urgency in Eve's voice and he knew the girl wasn't the type to make a big deal out of something small. He left the alley way quickly, dialing Train's number as he made his way to the school.

---

As soon as Creed got to the school and saw the scene before him, he froze. There were several trees that were knocked over and a telephone pole was nearly dislodged from the ground. The bushes along the music school were torn to shreds and there were a few windows shattered. The lawn was destroyed as well, several sections of high walls made of earth stretched up into the air and there were burn marks at several locations as well. Debris was thrown everywhere, but otherwise the area was desolate. However, the most horrifying thing he saw was Aimee cradling Anastasia's limp body in her arms.

Eve was the first one to see Creed approach and she ran over to him. She said something to him, but Creed couldn't hear her over the ringing in his ears. Seeing that the silver man wasn't reacting to her, Eve reached up and slapped him in the face. Creed blinked and touched the spot the girl hit and tried to form a sentence.

"Wh...What the hell happened?!"

Eve stared up at the older man, then hugged him tightly as she buried her face into his chest, showing the most emotion she had ever shown in her life. "Creed… Anastasia's dead."

Creed stared at Aimee as the girl cried with his teacher against her chest, rocking back and forth slightly. All he could think about was getting to her to make sure what Eve said was true. He pushed Eve off him and ran over to the woman, falling to his knees next to her as he gripped the ground tightly. Aimee noticed the man's approach and lessened her hold on her mother, allowing Creed to see her face.

Creed stared at her lifeless eyes, reaching out to stroke her cold cheek. "No…"

He felt a tear fall from his eye, staring at her face with an intent look, trying to will her back to life. "No… No this can't be happening… She… It wasn't her time yet…"

He reached out his other hand and cupped her other cheek, shaking her head slightly as if that would wake her up. "Come on, woman! WAKE UP! Give me some more unwanted sage advice! Yell at me for being dramatic or for being an idiot! Hit me with your damn cane! Whatever you want to say or do to me, I don't care, just WAKE UP!"

He squeezed her tightly as he heard Aimee sob next to him. Creed growled as if the crying was making her stay dead and he turned a bit too angrily to the grief stricken girl. "STOP THAT! She's not dead! It's not her time yet!"

Creed turned back to his mentor and tried to check for a pulse on her neck, but his fingers were shaking too much. He cursed loudly and touched her wrists, but felt nothing. He screamed and grabbed the dead woman's shoulders tightly, ignoring the peaceful smile that would forever grace her inert face.

"WAKE UP, YOU OLD BAT! DIDN'T YOU HEAR ME?! IT'S NOT YOUR TIME YET!"

It was then he realized all the blood covering her, identifying the stab wounds right away and knowing immediately it wasn't supposed to be her time. Realizing that, he felt something snap in him and he brought the woman to his chest, squeezing her as tight as he could.

"You said you would outlive us all… You said you weren't ready yet…"

Creed stopped his words, knowing they weren't true as he began rocking back and forth with the woman. "...I'm not ready yet…"

He stayed like that for several minutes, hearing Eve approach from behind him along with Aimee's sobs next to him. He couldn't even appreciate it was the first time he had ever heard the girl make a sound. He was too distraught by the woman he was cradling in his arms.

No… No, this can't be right… This has to be a nightmare… I'll wake up any minute in Train's arms and-

That was when he realized what the burn marks in the ground were. He turned around to address his question at Eve. "Where's Train?!"

Eve blinked. "I… I don't know. He's not with you?"

Creed shook his head wildly, but didn't let go of Anastasia. "No, but I told him to meet me here. And this-" He pointed to the wounds on his teacher as he spoke. "-Wasn't an accident! And it wasn't something Train would let happen! Where is he?!"

Eve was at a loss for words, but wasn't able to speak anyway as Sven approached and dropped a dead Chronos spy next to them. He wiped his forehead, his eyes clearly red from tears he had been shedding as well and pointed at the man. "Creed's right. This wasn't an accident. This was a planned attack. And I can't think of anyone else who would want to attack us in such a malicious way."

Creed's body went cold again and he felt his hold on Anastasia lessen. "Do… Do you mean…?"

Sven nodded, his face grave as he looked between the dead woman and her grieving child. Aimee had curled herself into a ball and he could tell she was disassociating from the situation. When she called Eve in a panic, it was the first time he had ever heard her speak, yet he didn't understand a word she said. All they got out of the conversation was to come to the music school right away. When they got there and noticed Creed wasn't there, Sven had a feeling the silver man wasn't answering Aimee's calls and she decided to call the bio-girl since Eve had become her closest friend.

She also probably knew we were the next best option other than Creed and Train.

Sven's thoughts reminded him of the cat and couldn't help but notice he wasn't with Creed. He pulled his eyes unwillingly away from Aimee and to Creed. "Where's Train?"

Creed glared up at Sven, pulling Anastasia away from him a little as he screamed at his green friend. "I DON'T KNOW, SVEN! THAT'S WHAT I'M TRYING TO FIGURE OUT!"

Sven jumped at his outburst, then looked back at Aimee who seemed to be trying to form words again. Her normally calm, composed eyes turned a bright shade of red, emotions seeming to both leave and flood her as she spoke. Her voice was quiet and shaky, almost a little squeaky but they were unable to tell if that was how she normally sounded, or if her emotions were getting the better of her.

"They… They took Train…"

Creed's body went even colder and the entire world slipped away from him. If he could feel anything other than numbness, he would have felt grateful for Sven speaking on his behalf.

"Who? Who took Train?"

Aliane stared at Sven, then Eve, then finally at Creed. "It was Nica and them… They… They…"

Sven felt his heart drop at the name and kneeled next to the girl. "Nica? Is she okay?"

Aimee looked up at Sven, her eyes panicked at hearing the woman's name. "She… She was here… W-with the rest of them…"

Sven frowned. "What do they have to do with this?"

Aliane swallowed thickly and faced Sven fully. "She… a-and Aliane… and Kenneth… a-all of them… they… they lied to us… they…" She choked on her last words and locked eyes with Creed again.

As Creed stared at her, he knew exactly what she was trying to say. He didn't need her to finish her sentence since he could tell by the look in her eyes what had happened, but she did nonetheless.

"No… No, they couldn't have… No! TRAIN WOULDN'T-"

"Creed…" Aimee cut him off, her voice light and airy as she spoke, her lower lip trembling in fear as she replayed the scene that just folded in her head. "Creed… The Apostles took Train."

---

Translation:

(1) "I love you more you could ever know…"

(2) "I do know, because that's how much I love you in return."

(3) "There aren't words to describe how amazing you feel…"

(4) "I love you, Train…"