I don't own Suikoden but you better believe that if I did, I sue Fanfiction.net for every red cent they have.

Can I get a show of hands, how many of you all thought I was done with this. Well I don't blame you for thinking that, I have been occupied and I have less free time. Why this is well I could say I was looking for collages, or maybe say I'm searching form gainful employment but those would be lies. Truth is I was playing Xenosaga for two weeks straight but enough about me.

Thank you all for your reveiws. Blondie, Marionette, Catherine Rain, Starza (I hate love triangles, they all look cheap and disparate no mater who makes them), yugiohchick, Myrmee, Sindaaraniel (long time but always a plechers), FEEL-THE-MYSTIC, tidus2529, Crimson Rogue, JC, Galthos, Squalldaman and Yojimbo

Much love to Blondie who beta read this for me.


Blood pain and forgiveness. Chapter 6


It's odd, we're so different form one other, but I love him.' Chris was musing early in the morning before Hugo awoke. Chris held him in her arms as he slept, the sheets twisted around their bodies. Chris didn't sleep much last night; instead she just watched Hugo sleep and thought about their relationship. Chris knew that she had to leave for Brass Castle and Hugo would have to go back to Karaya, so she didn't what to lose one second with him just so she could sleep.

That night Chris felt Hugo's chest rise and fall against her as he breathed. She could feel his heart beat and his soft hair brushing against her face. Chris was so taken with Hugo that she felt like singing to the world about how much she loved him, and you know it'll be a cold day in hell when Chris will sing about anything.

Soon Hugo began to wake up, so Chris closed her eyes and pretended to be asleep. Hugo awoke with his trade mark yawn and stretch. Hugo couldn't help but note how beautiful Chris was, laying next to him. Even with her hair mussed and still with an afterglow of last night, Chris was still stunning. He brushed some stray hairs off Chris's faces and kissed her.

You know Chris; you're not fooling me by pretending to be asleep.

Chris opened her eyes, smiled, and hugged Hugo harder.

Well I don't want to let you go quite yet. You're really warm and quite comfortable, Hugo.

This pillow talk could have gone on longer but, at that precise moment, Cecile walked into the room.

Good morning Chris. You should be happy to know that we finished mending your clothes and... ... ... I... ... ... got them... ... .... ... here?

Cecile stopped in mid-sentence, not quite sure what to do in this situation. Lord Thomas could be heard, calling out from behind her. Hey Cecile, what's the hold up? Did Nobel Hugo wake up?

Yeah, you could say that.

Thomas quickly pushed passed Cecile to get into the doorway. Then why are you just standing there? I brought Hugo his clothes... ... ... ...

They all stood there for a moment, all four of them too embarrassed to say or do anything. Chris tried to hide behind Hugo, while Thomas and Cecile found the floors incredibly interesting. Hugo was the first to get over his embarrassment and say something. Thank you Thomas... Cecile... ... ... ... ... You can just leave our clothes on the bed over there and, well, leave.

Thomas and Cecile quickly did as was told, muttering brief apologies as they left. A chuckle escaped Hugo's lips as the two left, Chris however didn't find any of this funny.

Well I'm glad someone found this funny. Chris had sounded rather cross.

Heh heh heh heh. I'm sorry Chris, but if Thomas blushed anymore blood would have come out of his ears.

Chris's response was throwing her side of the blanked over Hugo's head.

Hey, that's not funny Chris!

It's no joke Hugo! Keep your eyes covered while I dress!

Hugo sighed and thought to himself Yes, the mood is definitely gone.'

It took Chris a good fifteen minutes to get dressed, and until Hugo could open his eyes. You know Chris, I'm not too familiar with Zexen ways, but shouldn't I make you breakfast or something?

Chris sat on the edge of the bed and pulled her boots on. No, but thanks for offing Hugo. I need to leave now if I'm to make it to Brass castle by midday. You yourself should return to Karaya as soon as you can.

Yeah... ... .... ... ... ... ... ...I guess your right. There was no hiding the disappointment in Hugo's voice or the sad look of his face.

Just as Chris's hand was reaching for the doorknob, Hugo asked Are you ashamed to be with me, you know, because I'm Karayan?

Chris walked back to Hugo and sat next to him. You know, I don't care about your skin color or where your from.

Is it because I'm seven years younger then you?

Hugo, It's not that either. I'm not leaving because I don't love you, but because I have duties that out weigh my own personal feelings. As I'm captain of the Knights of Zexen, which takes first priority in my life, everything else comes second.

Hugo was about to say something, but Chris continued speaking. Try to understand Hugo. I could no more give up my command than you could give up being chief.

Hugo laid back into bed and turned away from Chris.

Come on Hugo, don't be like this.

Chris touched Hugo on his shoulder but he withdraw form her, almost as if her touch was burning. This only hurt Chris's feeling more, as she herself didn't really what to leave either.

I see how it is then. Good-bye Hugo... ... ... ... Hugo didn't even acknowledge what she said. Chris then left the room and Hugo alone.

****************************

Once out in the hallway, Chris could feel her eyes begin to water. I don't want to leave Hugo, but my duties as a knight say I have to. Still, he didn't have to act like he did. The least Hugo could have done was say good-bye'



Chris was so deep in thought that she failed to see Cecile standing right next to her. She quickly cleaned the tears from her eyes. Yes Cecile, what can I do for you?

Well, it's about you and... ... ... ...Hugo. I just wanted to say... ... ... ... ... ... ... ...

Chris swallowed the rather large lump forming in her throat.



Chris was now perplexed beyond belief as Cecile hugged her. I'm so happy that you found someone special Chris, and that Hugo has too. I can't think of how many girls gossiped over him during the war. I just know that Hugo will make a good husband for you.

Chris froze at that. She loved Hugo, that was for sure, but marriage? The image of her in a beautiful white gown next the Hugo at the alter, along with everyone in the grasslands, and Zexen? The Zexens and Karayans alike would disapprove of their union. How could they live like that, under the critical and disapproving eyes of every person?

Well thank you Cecile, but I need to see Master Thomas right away. Do you know where I can find him? I need the use one of his horses to get to Brass Castle.

I think Thomas is in his study.

Thanks again Cecile.

******************************

Hugo was still in his bed, having an internal battle between his heart and mind. Hugo's heart and mind... Why did I just let her leave like that? I should have tried too stop her.'

You know she wouldn't have listen to you. You'd have just made yourself look pathetic and weak.'

Yeah, but we should have said good-bye at least.'

You hate saying good-bye, remember?'

I'd hate to lose her more than that!'

... ... ... ...True.'

With his heart and mind as one, Hugo got out of bed to get dressed and hopefully reach Chris. Hugo was just pulling his shirt on when he saw a happy surprise hidden in his clothing.



Hugo's trusty knife was with his clothing as well. Thomas must have had someone look for it in the Yaza Plains. I didn't think I'd miss it so much.' Hugo then returned Luft to its rightful place in the sheath on his back.

If I hurry, I can still see Chris and say good-bye before she leaves.'

******************************

Thomas and Chris exited the main door, walking next to each other. Thomas had grown up in three years; he was now a bit taller than Hugo. The clothes he wore where not that different form his old ones: a good brown jacket over a red vest, along with light blue pants. It was a refreshing sight to Chris, other than the forms of the other rich Zexen man: with there purple or gold tunics and thick black belts holding back even thicker stomachs.

So Chris, you just need a horse to borrow in order to get to Brass Castle?

Yes, that's right. I just need one for the day and then I'll have someone bring it back to you.

Thomas looked a bit puzzled. You need one now?

Yes, is something wrong with that?

Well, I just thought that you would stay a little longer, you know, till Hugo gets better. It seems cruel of you to just leave him here.

Chris stopped and looked to Thomas. To be honest, she did feel a bit like a heel for leaving Hugo so soon. I know that, but I have my duties with the other knights to handle. I can't have them thinking I'm dead.

You don't need to worry about that; here come some Zexen knights now! I believe that's Sir Borus leading them.

Chris's gut inside her told her to be careful, but she knew Borus would never do anything to harm her. Yet, those were not her knights he was with, they were Zexen marshals. Marshals? They only work for the Counsel, and rarely do work with my knights. So why then is Borus with them?'

Thomas walked up to, and greeted, Borus. Hello sir Borus, what brings you to Budehuc Castle?

Borus had an intense look on his face as if his whole being was here for one peruse. I'm here on business from the Zexen counsels.

Just before Thomas could ask what business, Borus drew his sword and bashed Thomas's head with the pommel. Thomas fell to the ground with blood leaking form his right ear. Chris tried to help Thomas, but two Marshals had grabbed her arms. Borus just looked at the struggling woman and smiled sadistically.
*****************************

There was a lot yelling coming from the courtyard, resulting in Hugo and Cecile quickly running there to see what was causing such a commotion. Cecile screamed at the site of Thomas's form sprawled out over the ground.

Thomas! What have you done to him!?

Some of the marshals drew their swords and formed a shield around Borus. Borus simply shrugged off the girl's anger towards him. Don't worry, he's not dead. He's just knocked out from me brushing the pommel of my sword against his temple.

Borus then grasped a handful of Chris's hair and pulled her inside the Inn. He the forced everyone inside the Inn to leave: Sebastian, Martha and many guest where rudely ejected. The Zexen marshals then lined up in front of the Inn as a barricade to any intruders.

Sebastian and Martha joined Cecile and Hugo, and then they all gathered around Thomas. Sebastian was beside himself with worry. Oh my, what will we do? I... I... I just don't think I can take this!

Emily came running up the stairs from the bujutsu centre with a look of fire in her eyes. I'll tell you what we're going to do! I say we kick the living crap out of them! What do you say Cecile? I know that you want a shot at those bastards too! and to emphasize her plan, she cracked her knuckles slowly.

Cecile just shook her head. We can't. Even if we do defeat Borus, he'd most likely kill Chris before we can even get inside the Inn.

But... ... ... ...

The much calmer and tired voice of Juan called out from behind Emily. Cecile's right you know, even if I hate to admit it. To fight Borus openly would only result in all of Zexen asking for our heads. It's a lose-lose battle.

Damn it! Chris will be killed even if we don't try and save her!

While Juan was busy arguing with Emily, Martha cleared her thought to get everyone's attention. Listing, as I see it, the only way we can win is if we save Chris then fight Borus. I think that Hugo is best qualified for the job.

Do you know a way I can get in without anyone seeing me? Hugo asked in a hurry.

Yes, there's a back window to the inn, but you have to run around the castle to get to it. So, if your going to go, you better... ... ... ... hurry???

Hugo was long gone by the time Martha stopped speaking. Damn kids these days, always in a rush!

****************************

Borus threw Chris onto one of the tables in the common room of the inn. To her credit, Chris didn't cry, she just looked on as disbelief covered her face. Ever so meekly she asked him

Borus smiled sadistically and grabbed Chris by the throat. Why, you ask? My dear Chris, It should be obvious to you. I'm just here to see you reach the final level of your fame. You see, everyone in Zexen thinks your dead. If only you could see the morning and outpouring of love for you. Of course, that's not all. People are screaming for Karayan blood. This all works well with the counsels plans to take over all of the grasslands, and we can't have you stopping them just because your still breathing.

So that's it? They're using my death' as an excuse to start war with the Grasslands? There was a great deal of shame and sadness in her voice.

War you say? Ah ha ha ha ha ha, how small minded of you. We're talking about total genocide of the barbarians, and just think Chris; it will all be in your name. It's only logical you know: you were a knight who became an icon, then a hero, and now the only thing left for you now is a martyr.

How much did it cost Borus? Tell me how much money the counsel had to spend to buy your loyalty! I never thought I'd see the day when you sell yourself out like a whore.

Borus pushed Chris on top of a table with one hand and drew a knife with his other. Chris could feel the razor sharp edge of the knife against her neck. Borus then moved the knife down slowly, not cutting her, but enough to scratch her skin. He then used it to cut down Chris's blouse.

Borus grinned and his once hansom face was twisted into one of inhuman lust. He then leaned over Chris and ran his tongue across her face. What makes you think I'm doing this for money? I've chosen this job because of you, Chris. You're not like any woman I've ever met. It's your personality, like you're made of stone, which makes you different from every other Zexen girl. Even though I've been with a lot of women, I've never seen one who thinks she's so much better than me. Not like the way you do. Ever since I saw you at knights training, I've stayed up numerous nights fantasizing about you.

Borus ran his free hand over Chris's body, harshly groping her as he continued his verbal assault. I dreamed about what kind of expression you would have when we were in bed and how you'd act when you were horny... ... ... ... ... whenever I had the time I jacked off, thinking about you. What about you, Chris, did you ever touch yourself when thinking about me?

YOU WISH, YOU PERVERT! I'D RATHER SLEEP WITH A DOG THEN YOU!

Chris's defiance only enraged Borus further. If you know what's good for you Chris, you'll shut that mouth of yours. I'd hate to cut out your tongue before I got some use out of it.

Borus punched Chris so hard that she couldn't move or fight back. Chris then thought of a way out, she could bite her tongue off and bleed to death. That way she wouldn't have to live through Borus's twisted abuse. Just as Chris was deciding on whether or not to kill herself she saw Hugo enter the room.

Get away form her you son of a bitch!

Borus looked up at Hugo and sighed as if the Karayan warrior was only a small nuisance. Piss off boy! Can't you see I'm busy here?

Hugo charged Borus, while crying out with rage. Borus turned to face his new attacker and the two met with fists flying. Soon their fight took them into the lobby and, later, out the door.

Hugo's plan was working so far, he had gotten Borus away form Chris. Now all he had to do was make a plan to defeat Borus, but he was sure he'd come up with something.
*****************************

The Zexen marshals broke rank as their commander feel through the door, wresting with the flame champion. Both the marshals and the Budehuc Castle Guards did nothing to interfere with their fight.

Borus was stronger and faster then Hugo, so Borus was dominating the fight from the start. Any extra speed or strength Hugo had he'd lost in his fight with Chris, from which he still had yet to fully recover. Blow after blow landed on Hugo as Borus literally beat him into the ground.

Hugo could feel a cold armored hand tightening around his throat and lifting him to his feet. Borus had Hugo in a death grip as he pulled the beaten Karayan to his feet. With a triumphant smirk Borus said I don't get you savage. Why would you fight for Chris's sake? Does the weak little barbarian think he's man enough for her?

Hugo stopped fighting and let his body just go limp, but his eyes locked with Borus. In that few seconds, when Hugo held Borus's gaze, Hugo was given enough time to pull his knife free and cut Borus in one smooth stroke. Hugo had managed to cut deep into Borus's wrist, which caused him to release his hold on Hugo.

While Borus screamed and held his wrist in pain, Hugo dove past Borus on his right and quickly cut the hamstrings of Borus's right and left legs. Severely bleeding from three deep cuts, Borus fell to his knees cursing. Damn you Bastard, you set me up form the start didn't you?!

Hugo rose to his feet and nodded.

I can't believe this, years of sword fighting and I was beaten by a child. Well, this is not over BOY! You may have bested me, but your village and everyone you love will be put to the sword... ... ... ...

Hugo had enough of Borus's empty threats and silenced him with a knee to his face, while breaking his nose in the process.

It's over for you Borus Redrum, so spare me your dramatics and just grit your teeth and close your eyes. Final Flame!

Everyone has seen fire and knows that it's a part of nature, but no one at Budehuc had seen fire act like this. The magical flames engulfed Borus and, if you had a strong constitution, you could see that the fire was peeling Borus apart. His hair was first, then his lips and eyes, once pale skin was now burnt black like an over done turkey, but some how his screaming never stopped.

Finally, after what seemed like hours, Hugo let the chard corps of Borus fall to the ground. All it took was the hateful gaze of Hugo's cold eyes to convince the other Zexen Marshals to surrender. The Budehuc castle guards quickly rounded up all the marshals and led them away.

Hugo, being near death three times in a matter of days, slumped to the ground exhausted. A few minuets later Chris exited the Inn, she held her shirt closed and had a few bruises, but she looked no worse than before.

Chris walked over to the chard and lifeless body of Borus and knelt down next to it. Chris thought about her old friend, the old Borus, and she knew that whatever it was that made him act as he did was not his true self, and that he deserved another chance. Mother Ocean!

A blue bubble of magic surrounded Borus's body and soon he was restored to his former self. Borus had barely lifted his head before Emily tied him up with rope. Let's go Sir Borus! We got a nice eight by five cell for you to cool off in.

Borus struggled in his binding and called out to Chris When did it all get so bent out of shape? If you hadn't been such a cold bitch... if you had shown me an ounce of kindness, I wouldn't have acted that way. Honestly, I loved you. I really loved you, but you shoved me aside just because I came from a rich family. How could you be so prejudice of me just because I was better off then most? You always open up to Percival and Salome, but never me, why?

Chris walked away from Borus and over to Hugo. Chris hugged Hugo reassuringly while placing a light kiss, a kiss that Hugo lovingly retuned. This was salt in an open wound for Borus. Are you ok Hugo?

Yes Chris, I'm fine, but I haven't eaten in three days and with all this running around I'm starved.

Then I think we should go out and eat, I'll pay if that's alright. Just give me a minute with Borus.

Sure, no problem.

Chris turned her head to look at the tortured face of Borus and with little emotion, but a lot of honestly, said I never hated you because your family was rich; I just didn't like your ugly face.

Hugo then tried to rise to his feet, but fell back down. Then with a look of embarrassment, and a small smile, asked Chris Hey, my legs fell asleep, could you carry me to the restaurant?

Chris sighed and mumbled something about how childish Hugo was, but that was part of why she loved him so much. Chris carried Hugo in the same way a husband would carry his new wife over the threshold of marriage though, in this case, the roles where visibly reversed. Hugo wrapped his arms around Chris's neck and, just before they left, Chris turned to Borus and added Come see me if you ever get better. I can at least make you some tea for you broken heart.

As Hugo and Chris walked away, Borus couldn't help but wonder if death would have been less painful.


Authors notes.

Well it's not over yet I still have to make an ending chapter and tie this all together. No worries though, no big twist or fighting to the death. It's relay a sweet little fluff to end this WAFF of a fanfic.