Born to be Broken.

Disclaimer: Don't own it loves. Perhaps this is a blessing, considering some of the screwy stuff I come up with.

Note: Well loves, it's been a while aye? I must apologize for my absence, but there is a perfectly plausible excuse. You see, I am right smack dab in the middle of exam period and with the subjects I'm taking I need as much time as I can scrape together! However, I have put apart this time especially for updating my next chapter so that it doesn't worry on my brain during the exams that I'm taking and my readers won't despair! (She says ever so modestly.) Well, now that I've made my excuses, onto my thankyou reviewer notes!

Purple Witchy Angel: Sorry about not mentioning you, hun! As I put in my responses in the last chapter, I apologized to any of my reviewers that I did not address, being that they didn't respond before I wrote the fifth chapter. So I'm sorry! This address can count for both then, kay? Thanks as always for the positive comments! And um... I think Akito's been quiet for long enough, it's about time he got in character, don't you agree? (Winces before Kyou-kun) Please don't beat me up... I have children! Granted they're goldfish that died five years ago but still!

Puppet in the Corner: I left you speechless? Cool! You think it's the best Ayame/Shigure out there? Well thankyou very much for saying so, I don't get sick of getting compliments! (Giggles hornily) Yeah, Akito's my hot little psychopath alright! I'm planning on having some more smutty type scenes with him in it later so stay tuned! (To be honest, I thought that what I did with Ayame was kind of... silly. But as long as no one else thinks so!)

SniperKitty: (Joins in the spazzing out) WHEE!! You lika my ficcy!! (Dances around with you) I didn't want to try and make Akito look good, even though I'm a fan. I want people to sympathize with him for genuine reasons and not because I've cleaned him up. I want him as badass as he is on the show and that's pretty damn badass! But of course he has that vulnerable whimpy side we didn't get to see until episode 26 that I'll be delving deeper into. Man... Akito's one psychological character so he's really giving me a workout! (Gets all hot and bothered over the idea of Akito giving her a workout.) You wanna have my babies? You love me? (Thinks.) This is all happening kind of quickly but what the hell! Let's get married! Where should we have the wedding? Do you want to wear the dress or should I?

Demeter1: My caramel-chocolate Akito fic! (Squeals with happiness) You seem to be really getting into this! I'm glad, I want my readers to stew over it and try and figure things out themselves. That's the whole point of it being a mystery after all. Mystery for everyone! Now, your review was kind of long (not that I'm complaining!) so I'm going to address each section that you remarked on. You liked Akito's dream, huh? I was worried it was kind of overdone but you seemed to have gotten the general gist of it. All that rhyming crap that each zodiac member was carrying on about is partly a deconstruction of Akito's characteristic's and partly to give him clues about his next moves. There was a reason I chose those particular Jyuunishi to appear in that scene but you'll all find out why later! Right now Akito's not so much trying to figure out how to end the zodiac curse or even to discover where it originated, but you're right. That's the direction he's heading. I'm really honored the way that you're trying to uncover the story line before I reveal it myself! Nice to see you got all the 'lucky' puns, though it's not quite used in the context that you probably think it will be. It's quite interesting actually, what the whole 'luck' thing pans out as. As for the woman in his dream, you suggested that it could either be a scene from Akito's past that he is blocking out or a scene from when the zodiac curse was born. One of those is right, so good job! (Applauds) Though I won't give away just which one it is. The whole Kureno being an elder thing was something I initially did on a whim. Though there is a whole massive point behind that and the fact that Akito doesn't know. As Hatori put it; "-but there are many dark secrets within the House of Sohma. -An evil shadow looms over this family. That is the nature of our curse." (Man I love fanwanking my own stuff!) I love Kureno as a character so I wanted to give him more of a personality than was revealed in the manga. I kind of see him as a less serious, warmer version of Hatori if that makes sense? Hari .Jr? Oh and I'll take note of my paragraph chunking from here on in! There'll be much more Akito coming up!

faith b: Can't say how much it means to me that you are enjoying it as much as you are! You say you find it overwhelming? I'm flattered! Truly flattered that you think that! My dear, you simply must get around to seeing those last two disks of Fruits Basket because they reveal so much more about Akito, especially episode 26. His character really comes to light there and you just want nothing more than to reach into the screen and rescue him! Does it really make you want to cry? Oh my... If it makes you sad now I can't wait to see your reaction to the fics ending! That's going to be a real Kleenex fest! Yeah, even though Akito's a 2-D character, he is the most psychological, sad, depressed, complex drawing on a piece of paper I have ever seen! And since we don't hear anything about his past on the show or manga, I've taken it upon myself to fill in the blanks as realistically as possible. Though I still have a lot to unveil, it 's nice that reviewers find his plight a sad one. I know that I always did. (Blushes) You say I offer insightful perspectives of life and a philosophical interpretation on the whole subject of Akito/the Sohma family and it's nice that you have been able to find this in my work. I've put a lot of effort into doing these chapter's, adding those bits and pieces here and there hoping that those who were willing to look for it will find it. I feel blessed that you enjoy my fic so much and I'm sorry for the late update! I hope that this next chapter will make up for it! (My fake nails are causing somewhat of a hinderance however!)

That's enough thanking now! Oh, before I begin though I have one question to ask all my reviewers in general. It's really been bothering me... Is Akito's hair plum colored? Some websites have said that it is and I went off of my nut, because I'm convinced that it is black. Though I was watching the show just a while ago and I thought to myself; "Hmm... his hair does have a purplish tint to it..." N E one who would like to help me unravel this particular Mini Mystery is more than welcome! Now, on with the fic!

They prepared for the ritual in absolute silence. Silence, if you did not take into account the consistent tapping of Akito's fingernails against the floor. Shigure looked over at the family master, wishing there was some way he could define the slender young man in his thoughts, in a way that was not negative. Arata, Sho and Nobu worked briskly, setting the out the various tools necessary for the eviction, lighting candles and incense and occasionally pausing for a moment of hurriedly uttered prayer. Kureno sat by Akito's side, unremitting in his expressionless guise. His hands were balled into two loose fists and rested on the tops of his bent knees, eyes closed in contemplation. At least that is what Shigure assumed. Kureno had always been difficult to decipher and he continued to grow even more mysterious with each passing second. Ayame, calmed by whatever magic Akito had worked on him, had rolled over lazily onto his back, hands raised in the air and bobbing listlessly at the wrist as if he were uncertain of their purpose. His white unseeing eyes moved to focus on Shigure for an instant and through the mouth came a malignant hiss. It's intent clear, though the body lacked the ability to follow through with its threat. Shigure turned away, unable to watch. He instead looked at Akito, lying comfortably on the floor, with one hand propping his head up and the other pressed against the floor, whereupon he tapped the wood with his long nails. He was tapping out a tune, though it was unidentifiable, at least to Shigure. Yet, despite the situation itself, Akito continued to observe the events surrounding him in an indifferent manner. His thin lips, though drawn straight across his face, seemed to carry with them the hint of a smile just beyond the surface. His black eyes danced in the depths as though they were privy to a hidden truth that no other was aware of. Shigure knew this was exactly how Akito perceived the other zodiac members and by extension mostly everyone he came in contact with. Though whether this was a defense mechanism, or the unveiled limits of his dark personality was yet to be seen. That sort of deconstruction was best left to people who knew what they were talking about. Like Hatori. Shigure tilted his head, thinking about his friend and wondering if he was all right. The wound to his leg had been severe and he knew for a fact that human bites were prone to becoming infected. Not to mention whatever additional damage the thing that was Ayame had done.

Akito was watching him benignly, a placid smile on his face. Shigure realized that he had been staring and made a point of clearing his throat and looking away. He didn't like Akito's smarmy attitude, especially when a loved one was in danger but he was even more uncomfortable by the gentle look the family master was giving him. Whatever it's meaning, Shigure couldn't help but think that it was an expression intended for sympathy should Ayame fail to be restored. And that was not a thought he was willing to entertain.

Kureno too noticed the look, through the one un-bruised eye that he held slightly ajar. It was a skill he had learnt many years ago whilst serving Akito, to sleep with one eye open and to always be aware, even when you were trying to disillusion others into thinking that you were not. So Kureno saw, and he knew the purpose of the smile. Akito wasn't exactly a social creature and his skill's in interacting with others was shaky at best but Kureno had a fair understanding of his expressions and gestures. The look he sent Shigure was one of encouragement. Out of all the Sohma's it was both he and Shigure that Akito trusted the most. He would say that he viewed them as friends but Akito didn't believe in the term and wholly more, didn't trust friendships. 'That's kiddy stuff.' He had told Kureno once, when the rooster had asked whether he considered him a friend. Whatever his words, Kureno knew that the family master denied many of his own feelings for the sake of producing an appropriate appearance. Even the feelings he had once developed for Shigure. Though the desire for him had long faded, there was still the essential fondness present in the way Akito addressed him and more so, trusted him. When Shigure had wanted to move away, Akito had let him. Though whether it was because of that previous longing, or some other entirely separate factor, remained to be seen. But Kureno knew very well the reason why Akito had fallen for Shigure. It was a memory. A memory that lingered of another; who was so very much like he...

But Akito would never know that.

Arata spread the candles in a circle, not to far from where Ayame lay. Before lighting each of them, she delved her fingers within a small bag around her waist and withdrew a pinch of some hidden substance that the others could not see. With it, she rubbed the wick of each candle and then, moving anti-clockwise, lit each of them. Shigure watched, mesmerized, as each flame slowly rose to life; a startling blue rather than the expected orange. With a start he realized that within each flame, there floated a tiny sexless face, the mouths moving slowly in the manner of a brain-damaged fish. He turned and looked sharply at Kureno, seeking answers. Though his eyes were apparently closed, the rooster shook his head when the dogs gaze sought him out. Shigure was confused. Had they not called Susumu- Kureno- to perform the Eviction Ceremony himself? Why was he merely sitting by, doing nothing?

Nobu held up a piece of chalk in his bent arthritic hands. "Alas, my eyes are too old and my hands too bent to scrawl the symbol myself..." He observed in a dry, husky tone. "Perhaps Master Kureno, would be so kind as to come draw it for me."

'Of course!' Shigure thought, cursing his stupidity. 'Akito doesn't know about Kureno being a Family Elder, so they have to be careful about his inclusion in the ritual or else his cover will be blown...'

Kureno's eyes snapped open as though he had been woken from a daydream. Of course the reality was far from this as he had been fully aware the whole time. He gave a subservient bow and rose to his feet, taking the stem of chalk from Nobu's extended hand.

"What is it that you want me to draw?" Kureno asked, playing his role down to the ignorance of the humble servant boy. They answered just as he knew they would, The kanji that made up the word Sohma, written within the circle of candles. As Kureno bent down the write the words, Akito sat up straight and stretched, his robes falling about his slender form revealing large patches of pale skin. As he relaxed, the kimono's collar slid down to his upper arm on the left side, leaving little to the imagination. Shigure, being nothing if not a gentleman (...) turned to look away, when something caught his eye. There was an irregular purple and red bruising on Akito's neck. Shigure was very well versed with this particular marking, as it was common to find on his very own body after he had spent a night with Ayame. It was a hicky. Akito noticed the aim of Shigure's gaze and pointedly pulled his kimono back up to perch upon his shoulder, his eyes accusing the dogs curiosity.

"I fell in the shower." He said as explanation.

"Oh." Shigure replied, disbelieving. He knew a hicky when he saw one and that was a hicky. Though who in Hell would be brave enough to get that close to Akito to deliver it was beyond him.

Kureno was whispering to Sho and making vague circular movements with his hands. The older woman nodded and together the three Family Elder's- plus one undercover- made their way over to Ayame.

"What are you doing?" Shigure asked, forgetting Akito immediately. The Family Master watched in silent interest as the two men and women, each stood in a rough circle around the possessed snake, moving to kneel beside him. "I said, what are you doing?" Shigure asked again, insistent on being heard.

"Peace Shigure, we're not going to hurt him." Kureno said soothingly, placing his hands on the tops of Ayame's arms. "We're just going to move him into the center of the circle for now. That's where the Family Elder's have created a barrier, see? To expel the evil spirit." He indicated the circle and it's faced-flames, the white chalk seeming to glow with an ethereal light.

Akito yawned, as though the slow proceedings were boring him. "I still think that he is better off this way. I already have enough trouble from migraine attacks, it would certainly be less of an imposition were he to tone down his antics a little."

Shigure wanted to scream at him to shut up, but feared more for the consequences it may bring down upon Ayame, already scrutinized by the rest of the family. The snake was considered the most malignant of the zodiac animals, second only to the cat, which was the segregate outside of the family itself. It was only a matter of luck that they were helping Ayame now and he wouldn't dare risk impeding that, simply to defend him. His safety came before his pride, though Ayame might argue differently.

"One-two-three- HEAVE HO!!" Kureno shouted, as the Family Elder's hefted Ayame up onto their shoulders. Akito snickered, thinking that it was a very appropriate choice of words, considering whom it was. You didn't have to know Ayame Sohma personally, to know that he was quite promiscuous by nature. To say the least.

The circle was wide enough for the Four Elders to move Ayame within it without difficulty. The tailor remained calm throughout his transfer and continued to remain passive when placed within the candles.

"The blood." Sho said, once they were all standing outside the circle again. As Kureno moved to retrieve the blood, Sho turned to Shigure and Akito, her yellow eyes dark, despite the festive color. "Stand back you two. This is where matters become complicated."

Akito's only response to this was a slight frown. Though he did move away as requested, toward the door and pushed it ajar slightly so that he could stare out. The sun was setting outside, but he could see what a beautiful day it had been. How he wished he had been out there enjoying it, instead of being cooped inside. Shigure moved to stand beside him, but his eyes never left Ayame.

Kureno returned to Sho's side with a long flat box, carved with ornate symbols on the lid. He bent one knee back and bowed slightly, allowing his forehead to touch the woods surface before straightening up. Sho nodded in return and ran her straightened palm in a semi-circle above the box, uttering an incomprehensible prayer. Once complete, she slowly raised the lid and revealed a row of tiny medicine vials, each one firmly topped and labeled. Shigure wasn't close enough to see, but he could count the number and there were thirteen, which made him assume that the blood was a sample from each of the cursed Sohma's. It wasn't surprising. After all, he'd had many blood tests in his time so it would be feasible to assume that Hatori had supplied the Elder's with these vials. Sho's long fingers trailed across the row of vials, before coming to a stop on one in particular. Shigure guessed that it was Ayame's blood. With no further hesitation she removed it from its' slot and nursed it against her palm, nodding once at Kureno. The rooster bowed and closed the boxes' lid, returning it to the supply bag.

Shigure was momentarily distracted by Akito humming. He turned to look at the petite man, leaning his weight heavily on one side of the door, his fingers pressed between the gap. The tone of his voice, the expression on his face made him appear vulnerable and Shigure had to remind himself again, just how young the boy was. Sometimes he forgot.

"Akito?" He said softly and the humming ceased immediately. Akito didn't look at him and made no acknowledgment that he had heard him. He just continued to stare off into the yard beyond, though his thoughts were a million miles further.

"Sorry..." Shigure whispered; though he didn't feel as though he had an obligation to apologize. "I just want to hear what they're saying."

Once more, no reply. Only a slight shifting of his head and the deference of weight to the other side of the body. Akito seemed weary and weak, even more so than before. Shigure remembered Hatori's words and how the Family Master had little time left. Looking at him in that very moment, it was very easy to see the truth in the other man's words. The boy truly was on Death's doorstep.

His attention was diverted back to Sho, who was moving about the circle clockwise with the open vile in one hand. Using her finger, she dipped the nail into the blood and allowed a drop to fall upon each candle-flame, causing the blue to change to an unnatural red. Ayame was beginning to stir, aroused by the groups' efforts. His back arched off of the ground and a guttural cry erupted from his throat, hands flapping uselessly back and forth through the air. But try as he might, the containment of the Sohma name held the body practically immobile and no amount of effort would allow him to break free. Once the last candle had been tipped by blood, Sho paused at the top of the circle, where Ayame's head had been placed. Without word, the other elders assembled in symmetry, Kureno by his feet, Nobu on the right side and Arata on the left. Sho took a deep breath, clearly out of practice with the proceedings. Her voice trembled as she spoke.

"We now must confront that which has caused trepidation unto one of our own. Within the barriers of the circle, it is bound to follow the commands we set for it. Outside of the circle we are protected from it's physical and non-physical threats. By the blood from it's own body, may we suppress the adversary and deliver the child from the depths into which it has been plunged.... Bow your heads with me and together we shall pray."

"Excellent job, my dear." Arata said bowing her head. The two other Elders also bowed their heads and Shigure too felt compelled to do so. Though it was only lowered enough so that he could still see what was going to happen to Ayame. In all retrospect's, he would have been better off not seeing at all.

As Nobu, Arata and Kureno slowly mouthed a silent prayer Shigure was unfamiliar with, Sho crouched and reached out slowly to Ayame. His eyes never moved from her hand, following the slow approach. Finally, as her fingers came to rest under his chin, he struck, rearing up to snap at her arm. But she had been expecting it and her hand withdrew even faster, tangling in his hair and using it to smash his face against the floor. Ayame hissed in primal pain as the process was repeated three times until blood dripped from a steady cut on his head.

"Steady on!!" Shigure yelled, outraged.

To her credit, Sho ignored him and Ayame, stunned, made no reaction when she twisted his head back and poured the rest of the blood into his mouth, holding his nose and forcing him to swallow the fluid. Kureno, unseen by both Shigure and Akito, made some wave like motions with his hand, fingers pointing at the ceiling and floor and a complex kanji symbol. Sho moved away, releasing Ayame who flailed aggressively, clutching at his throat and crying wordless screams. The Family Elder's knew what to expect, yet even they were shocked as the circle burst into a semi-transparent wall of blue fire. Ayame writhed within it, not burning, yet screaming as though he were. Shigure's reaction was as expected.

"HOLY FUCK!" He screamed, darting forward and shoving at Kureno's erstwhile form. Rather than fall aside as he expected the slim Sohma to do, the roosters' body was solid and unyielding. Without even shifting his position, he managed to turn the upper half of his torso about and constrict Shigure within his arms, all in a matter of seconds. Shigure struggled, but the muscles hidden beneath Kureno's loose black sweater were as firm as the knots in a rope. It was pointless. "Kureno, let go of me! AYAME!!" He called desperately.

"Shigure calm down. Take it easy!" Kureno hissed, planting his feet further apart to steady his stance. Physically he was stronger, but Shigure's determination to reach his lover seemed to enhance his strength. It took all his power to hold him steady. "It'll all pass in a second! Be still!"

Akito watched wide eyed from beside the door, his mouth drooping open slightly with no conscious thought of his own. Despite being Family Master, he had never seen such a spectacle unfold. Such... magic. He was frightened and the fear only grew when he felt the choking restriction that had availed him earlier that day, return. He clasped at his throat, crying for Kureno who was unable to hear his calls above the roaring sound of the blue flame and Shigure's shouting.

Arata, Sho and Nobu all raised their hands in succession and chanted something over the crackling roar of the fire. Shigure was close enough to know that he should have been able to feel heat but his skin didn't register the warmth that flame should bring. It was as though the fire was purely something designed to burn the supernatural essence alone, the creature that writhed within Ayame. As the three Elder's finished their prayer, the fire flared up suddenly, highlighting their features in unearthly blue light and then faded away to nothing. The candles flickered dimly then snuffed out one at a time. Not even a trace of smoke remained to show what had just occurred. Within the circle, Ayame rolled onto his side; arms wrapped protectively around his midsection and emitted a faint squeaking noise. It was tepid and pathetic, but it was definitely Ayame.

"Aya?!" Shigure cried uncertainly. He tried once more to break free of Kureno's grip, but the rooster resisted. "Let go of me you damn bloody chicken!!"

"It's not over yet..." Kureno whispered, hefting Shigure to the side with one rough turn of his body. He shook a finger in the inu's face. "You can go to him when I tell you too, but there's still danger. Be mindful of that."

To Shigure it was heartbreaking to stand so close to his lover and not comfort him as he sobbed. His determination was rekindled when Ayame softly called his name and he would have vaulted the candles had not Kureno held him back again. He was grateful to him a few seconds later however, when a hazy blue light appeared, hovering over Ayame's skin like an aura. The glow dissolved upwards, filtering in small granules towards the ceiling. Akito made a very attention grabbing; coughing screaming combo that forced them all to turn around. The blue lights were traversing into him and as the glow around him increased, the pressure in his throat strengthened until his face too had also taken on the color. The blood cells in his eyes expanded until they bulged from his head and with a despairing grunt, he fell to both knees, pitching forward completely onto the floor with a wince worthy crash.

"Akito!" Kureno cried, releasing Shigure in his hast to reach his fallen master. Shigure wasted no time leaping into the circle and pulling Ayame into his arms. The tailor was coughing and seemed kind of disoriented, but otherwise fine. His eyes were back to their usual beautiful shade of green.

"Ayame, say something, sweetheart." Shigure murmured, running a hand through his friends' hair. "Goddammit- say something!!"

"Something-" Ayame said typically. Shigure managed a slight smile as he pulled the other man against his chest, holding the back of his head and rocking him gently back and forth. "Shigure... what happened?" He whimpered as tears leaked from the corners of his eyes. "How did I get here?"

"Aya I..." Shigure couldn't figure out what to tell him and the situation with Akito was distracting him. The Family Master was down on all fours, his back arching and heaving in the manner of a cat with a hairball. Kureno knelt down and grabbed him around the middle, pulling him up tight against his chest. Akito made a rasp spluttering noise of protest, his arms battering at the air.

"Stay calm." Kureno said, his voice no affirming neutral in his suggestion. "Come on Akito- I'm right here, I won't let anything happen to you now- come on... Just keep breathing." When Akito failed to comply, Kureno lost his cool. "Could someone get me a paper bag?!" He shouted at the stunned faces surrounding him. Arata turned to Sho.

"Do it." She ordered, giving the younger woman a push in the shoulder to prompt her. "Go to the kitchen; check the drawers. There should be some there. Make haste!" She added as Sho dashed away, her long kimono trailing behind her.

"S-Shig-ure..." Ayame whimpered, clutching a hold of the inu's shirt and squeezing the material tight. Shigure grasped his hand within his own. "What's going on...?"

"I don't know..." The dog replied honestly, his eyes focused on the heaving form of Akito. The boy was flailing, his face as blue as the fire had been and his hands clenched into the shape of claws, the veins risen bulbusly through the pale flesh. Shigure watched as Kureno settled back against the floor, pulling Akito between the space of his legs and lifting his head up to try and clear his airways. The rooster's forehead was a mingled mess of sweat drops, his expression panicky. Though his actions portrayed confidence, Shigure couldn't help but think that Kureno was unaware of the particular's of the situation; why the Eviction had resulted in one of the master's panic attacks. For a moment their eyes met and Kureno bit his lip, knowing that Shigure had seen it too.

"Akito, grab my knees in your hands. Dig your nails in." The rooster said, turning his attention back to his master. Akito did as he was told, grasping a hold of the rounded caps of Kureno's knees and digging his nails into the pant material, piercing the skin beneath. It hurt, but Kureno endured it, knowing that this minor pain was a fraction of what Akito had to endure every day. "That's it. That'll keep your hands busy. And now you can release some of the tension, every time you feel pain you grip my knees as hard as you can and ride it out. Everything will be okay... It'll be all right, baby booties." He soothed.

Through the midst of the pain, Akito was able to comprehend what Kureno had called him. Baby booties. That was the nickname Kureno had given him that when he was only little. It was an affectionate name for small children, a name that he had not referred to since he had been a child himself. It was... comforting in a way to be reminded of that human element. That connection two people shared together. There had been another nickname that Akito had as a child... Small Hodgers. Another cosy name for small children, Scottish in origin he figured. But someone else had called him that... it hadn't been Kureno...

He may have stinted on that thought a while longer had not Sho returned with a paper bag at that moment. Without hesitation, Kureno snatched it and slapped it to Akito's face, no doubt bruising the boy in his haste. He held it in place as Akito breathed quickly into it, eventually moving his hands and placing them over Kureno's. He needed that touch, that warmth of human flesh against his own, especially when he was so fearful. Kureno seemed to understand this and used his other arm to wrap gently around Akito's shoulders, pressing his face against the side of the boys and rocking him, much in the same way Shigure was now rocking Ayame. This made the dog wonder, if perhaps the two were lovers. It would explain the strange mark on Akito's neck...

At long last, Akito's breaths evened out and his body relaxed. He impatiently pushed the bag away and run both hands up his face, sighing deeply.

"Are you all right...?" Kureno asked softly, brushing his hand over his head tenderly. Akito gave a slight nod, lowering a hand to press against his frail chest. Beneath the arch of his ribcage he could feel his heart thumping erratically, trying to ease the rest of his body into the usual systematic rhythm it was used to. Two panic attacks in one day was not a good sign. And what if the next time it happened, he was unable to recover from it? The pain was terrible for him and to procrastinate on the idea that it could one day increase to the point that it would kill him was terrifying. It didn't bear thinking about. So he turned his mind back to the matter that he had been pondering only earlier. That of Kureno. He looked up at the loyal servant, whose brown eyes were set on him with the grace of dignified concern. Thinking only of Akito, trying to keep him safe. Akito felt a moment of guilt; guilt that he had ever doubted Kureno's loyalty toward him. It was there, plain as anything, right before his very eyes. In Kureno's face he saw only dedication, commitment and care. Beyond the bruises and the cuts that Akito had inflicted on him, this man was still trying to protect him, even though he had done nothing but cause him pain. There was certainly some love in that, even if it wasn't plain to see.

"Kureno..." He said softly, reaching up slowly to trace the scratches carved about the roosters throat. His fingernails were able to follow them perfectly, being what had inflicted the wounds. Kureno continued to watch him, not even wincing at the touch of the man who had caused him such injury. "I'm... I'm- sorry." The words were rushed as though Akito were embarrassed and he bowed his head whilst he said them so they were nearly inaudible. But Kureno understood them. Though he had never heard Akito say the words before, he understood. He smiled tolerantly.

"Never mind Akito." He said, bringing his arm around the slim man's shoulders and pressing one hand protectively to the crown of his head. Akito whimpered as he was brought to rest against Kureno's chest; the older man's chin pressed into his still slightly damp hair. He wasn't used to this sort of personal contact; in all honesty, it made him acutely uncomfortable. Yet with his body as weak as it was now, there was little use trying to break free. And on the offhand, it felt sort of safe. Though he did his best not to let this feeling show.

"It would appear... that the ritual was a... success." Sho stated the obvious. Nobu and Arata both nodded together and Sho set to work clearing up the candles. Ayame and Shigure, still in the circles center, watched her move around them the inu still rocking his lover gently.

"Thank God you're okay..." He whispered to Ayame, bending his head to kiss the snake's sweat pricked forehead. "But... what the Hell happened? Ayame... what happened to you?"

Ayame met Shigure's eyes with a bleak sense of weariness, the long lashes drooping at the corners until they nearly caressed each respective arch of his cheek. He felt the compelling need to simply regurgitate as much as he could tell Shigure all at once but beneath that urge lay dormant the basis of fear and confusion. His very thoughts could be compared to the delicate intertwining of a ball of wool, in which the string looped around itself continuously but no end to the pattern could be found in sight. Such was his pondering. A tangled mess of barely comprehensible assumptions, theories, procrastination's and images all wound around each other so tightly that there was no way of discerning one from another. But beyond that he felt the touch of Shigure and that was all he wanted to focus on right now, lest it be drawn into the mess within his mind and wound into the tangle.

All he was able to answer to his lover was; "I can't say... I don't know Shigure..."

Shigure clearly was not satisfied with this response. He may have tried to press more information from Ayame had not Hatori entered stage right. Despite his injury, he had rushed back. Leg bandaged up to the knee and walking with the aid of crutches. His complexion looked better, though he was still slightly pale from blood loss, Shigure noted. The dragon quickly surveyed the room taking everything into account; three family elder's milling about, one with an armful of candles, Ayame and Shigure cuddling on two large chalk kanji on the floor and Kureno and Akito curled up together near his feet at the door. He raised an eyebrow uncertainly.

"I've seen Monty Python films less strange than this..." He muttered offhandedly, then with the gentlemanly air of compassion in his voice, addressed Ayame. "How are you fairing?"

"We should be asking you that very question, Hatori." Kureno remarked, leaning his head back to gaze up at the family physician. "I see the anti-venom did the job it was supposed to. That's good. The wound should heal in time, like all wounds. Even the wound of an aching heart can be healed by the passing of time."

Kureno's comment was soft and non-provoking, but Hatori didn't approve of his lack of discretion. He rarely discussed Kana and never in front of Akito, cautious of the impact that could result. He turned his eye towards the rooster; meaning to express this in a glare but noticed that the other man was not focusing on him. He had a far off glazed look on his face as though he were thinking of something else. The moment passed and the expressionless mask returned in full, angled toward the boy resting in his arms. Hatori made a slight noise in the back of his throat, denoting his affirmation more so to himself than anyone else and turned back to Ayame.

"Yes. Wound's certainly heal." He said in a somewhat dry tone. Ayame, who had been staring questioningly at Hatori's leg and crutches, squeezed Shigure's hand and looked to him.

"What happened to Hatori?" He asked innocently. The inu bit his lip and glanced at the Family Elder's then at Akito, asking silently what course of action was he to take. Was he allowed to fill Ayame in on what had happened? And what damage would this information cause his beloved when he found out that it had been his teeth that had caused the damage? Ayame adored Hatori, admired him. He would be devastated to learn of something like that, if he was not devastated already.

Akito spared Shigure the trouble. With a long-suffering sigh he managed to drag himself from the warm grip of Kureno's arms and push himself to his feet. He wobbled there, unsteadily for a moment before Kureno returned his cane to him. Akito pressed his hand against the wooden handle and leant against it, back straight and tall like an upper class gentleman. Though his manner was of definitive elegance and self-possession, Shigure couldn't help but see the weak links in Akito's facade that he was unable to hide in his state. The pinched manner of his usually handsome face, the arch of his shoulder bones painfully pressed upward against the skin, the tender wobbling of his legs. There was something... tragically beautiful about him, ill as he was aside. But there was still the strength of his personality beneath it all and it seemed to animate the body, pushing it to beyond its physical capabilities. Though Shigure had difficulty at times finding the things in Akito to like about him, there was the factor that was most easy to see. That forceful will to persevere, even if it was done in a dark, dreary, depressive way. But that was essentially Akito too.

He reminded Shigure of a spider. Spider's lay concealed in their webs and didn't attack unless something disturbed them. Akito too only attacked if something disturbed him; if the people around him acted in a way that dissatisfied him. Thinking back to the day that Akito had finally struck out at Tohru, Shigure contemplated that even his actions were spider like. The precision in which his hand had snagged her hair, the slight hiss he had emitted before the action was exacted. Spiders lunged in such a way, snaring their victims between their legs and then... killing it.

Dangerous, beautiful, perfected in the art of sanctioning. That was Akito Sohma to Shigure. And the Family Master continued to surprise him more and more by the second, just as Kureno was. There were so many secrets within the house of Sohma, and all of them appeared to be coming to light only now.

What more was in store for them?

Akito tapped his cane against the ground twice as he considered. A moment passed and he seemed to have come to a decision.

"Kureno, Hatori..." He said eyes hidden behind his hair. "Take Shigure and... -the snake- to one of the spare rooms to rest. Everything will be explained to them in due time."

"Yes Sir." Kureno replied immediately. He gave a slight bow to Akito then made his way over to Ayame and Shigure, extending his hand to them. "Come." He said gently, persuading them to stand. As Hatori moved to join them, he felt Akito gently snag his jacket sleeve. He knew what was coming even before the family head had spoken and regardless, the decision surprised him.

"Erase their memories." Came the smooth cool order.

Hatori blanched. "For what purpose? There's no reason to do that Akito and it's a rash decision to make!"

"I hope that you are not disobeying my orders for the second time running." Akito's voice was dark, his expression revealing nothing. It was carefully neutral. Hatori was not as concerned with allowing his feelings to show, but he was conscious of keeping it concealed from Ayame and Shigure. He kept his voice low.

"Akito, with all due respect, we have no idea what has caused Ayame to do this." He attempted to put forth a rational argument. "Now, I'm a doctor and what he is suffering from right now is post-traumatic stress. After some rest he may be able to tell us what happened and then we can-"

"What?" Akito asked sharply. He allowed his eyes to meet the lone visible one of Hatori's and his expression was oppressive. It was difficult, even for someone as substantial as Hatori, to hold his gaze. "Just what is it exactly that we can do Hatori? You saw the man did you not? Something unholy writhed within him of which no insanity of his own could have aspired to. Whatever caused that, I believe that the Family Elder's are fully aware of its identity, for they were able to expel it. Were they not?" For a moment he smiled and the expression was so believable that one might have been fooled into thinking that he was actually happy. Yet there was no cheer in his voice; his dark words betraying the gentle smile on his face as they followed from his lips, one after the other. "Now. I have little much invested in the snake, unlike you so do not get me wrong. But... this act is not out of my own interest. Amazingly. It is for his and Shigure's. Though I was uninformed of this... relationship that they have formed it is quite obvious that there is essentially something there. Shigure spoke a little of what occurred and he mentioned something that best remain hidden. What this is, is none of your business and neither is it any of his. In fact, I would go so far as saying that it is also none of my business either. Now something is going on here and whatever that is, I don't want it leaving this house. Were you not able to erase Shigure and Ayame's memories Hatori I may even request that you kill them to keep that information from leaking outwards like the ink from a blotted pen."

"Such things you say..." Hatori whispered, shocked. Akito continued on, intent on being heard. He felt somewhat emboldened now and raised his head haughtily, surveying Hatori down the curve of his nose.

"As such, you do have the power to take their memories from them and that is what you will do Hatori. Mainly because I do not want this information to spread beyond the walls of this house and also in part... because of the impact it will have on them." He leaned close. "Think about it: What do you think this event is going to do to them? Are you foolish enough to believe that they will simply go on living their care free existences and leave this terror behind them?" His voice contained pure dripping skepticism. He scoffed. "Don't be so stupid Hatori. You remember your precious Kana, how she was wrenched from end to end by her memories of love for you. The torment of knowing, Hatori, the memory, is what poisoned her. And should you allow it, it will poison your friends too." For a moment he appeared sympathetic; such a rare show of emotion for Akito. He reached out slowly and rested his hand on Hatori's chest, registering the beating of his heart through the shirt fabric and moved close so their bodies touched. For all his pretences, Akito liked to be close to people out of a selfish human desire for the touch of people. There was such beauty in his poise however that Hatori couldn't help but take his hand within his own. Perhaps it was but another of Akito's clever rouses to twist him around his finger; in fact he was near to certain that it was. But still... there was something there. A sense that maybe... somehow, the emotion was genuine. When nothing in Akito seemed genuine but the sadness and the rage, it was truly difficult to find the compassion. Yet Hatori felt that it had to be there. He was human after all.

"I know... it's hard..." Akito said sounding as though he was unfamiliar with how to place the appropriate words. He trailed his hand down Hatori's chest to rest on the slope beneath the dragon's ribcage, bringing Hatori's hand with it. He was trying so hard, Hatori realized. So hard to fit the expectation he assumed they all must have wanted of him. Yet, the decisions he had to make didn't make him a good person and he realized that what he was asking of Hatori was not going to make him a good guy. When you were the Head of the Sohma family, there was very little you could do to make yourself look kind. It wasn't a flattering occupation. "But... you- you must think of the alternative. Of Shigure and the s- of Ayame. They will hurt. Hatori, they are innocent. They shouldn't be made to suffer."

"Shigure and Ayame are hardly innocent." Hatori deadpanned looking over at his two friends as they were supported by Kureno. The rooster called his name and made a gesture with his head to suggest he join them. With a sigh, Hatori consented to the inevitable, feeling as though his own inner emotions were slapping like waves at his physical strength. The inevitability made it hard for him to remain standing. It was always like that when he had to erase a person's memory. "Very well." He said at last. "I shall do as you say."

"And that is one thing I can always count on from you." Akito said softly, moving his hand to gently stroke Hatori's cheek and then stepping back so it fell to his side. He smiled ironically for a moment. "With one exception."

Hatori didn't respond to this, for there was truly no point. All he could do now was to take Shigure and Ayame somewhere private and steal from them the memory they wouldn't even know was stolen. That Hatori would live the rest of his life knowing he had stolen. But that therein was his own curse. Just as the secrets of the Sohma clan were Akito's.

They made their steady way towards the hallway, Kureno generally carrying both Ayame and Shigure whilst Hatori limped along beside them. As they moved further away, Akito remembered what it was he had initially come downstairs for and called out to Kureno. The rooster turned his head slightly to imply that he was attending.

"After you have relieved yourself of Shigure and Ayame, come find me." The family master said with a slight wave of his hand. "There is a matter I must discuss with you."

"Of course." Kureno replied with obvious interest. It had been years since he and Akito had engaged in a decent conversation and he had to wonder just what might have prompted Akito to decide to now. Perhaps he still retained some guilt from that morning and wanted to amend his feelings. Putting his thoughts on hold, Kureno returned to the matter of hand and continued to lead Shigure and Ayame to the best possible room he could think of at the moment. His own.

When Akito was positively sure that there were out of immediate hearing range he turned his attention back to the Family Elder's.

"Well." He said.

"Well." Arata replied, folding her hands before her waist. It was obvious that she was not concerned with Akito's presence or the less then impressed expression on his face.

"I want answers." The boy said simply, barely moving his body as he spoke. This cool countenance barely masked the seething pit of confusion and anger boiling beneath. It was all he could do the keep from hitting someone and right now, Arata and her placid face was looking the most inviting.

Arata appeared confused by the question. "And what answers would those be, my love?"

"Don't call me that." Akito sneered. "You have no love for me and I am not naive nor desperate enough to try and persuade myself that you do. I drove myself crazy for years before I figured that out." His voice lowered another nuance until its darkness seemed to delve within the shadows that crept along the floor. "I remember being the master of this family... I'm sure that isn't some beautiful fairy tale I made up to keep myself entertained. Therefore I demand answers. Answers to these secrets that you so scandalously conceal. You performed some act of magic here today, magic of which I was unaware even existed. Curses I can understand but this..." He shook his head. "There are strange things happening all around Arata. Nobu, Sho. I can feel it all over... all over my body and inside where I hardly feel anything..." At this he lifted his kimono gently from his shoulders and allowed to slide sensually from his fine frame. The bruising inflicted to him in the shower only earlier shone a ghoulish purple in the light that bounced off of his bare skin. He shivered and spoke with tears welling in his eyes. "Please... tell me what's happening..."

The Three Family Elders' were unable to answer for a few moments for they were too invested in their inspection of Akito's body. Sho's mouth was opening and closing at random as her eyes roved over the multi-colored flesh. Nobu was starting to look pale.

"Oh my God..." Sho whispered walking up to stand behind Arata. She rested a hand on the other woman's shoulder and covered her own mouth with her hand. "Arata... Arata it's... it's..."

"Don't speak the name..." Arata hissed, her eyes full of something that resembled hatred, only deeper. "To speak that name would be a curse unto itself... that is all this mis-color of bruising is."

"It is a sign Arata." Nobu stated, coming up on her other side. His eyes hadn't left Akito. "We scorned its words, we ignored its cries and now... it has shown us that we were wrong..."

"Oh God..." Sho was whimpering, backing away ever so slowly. "It's going to get us... it's going to come back to get us just like it said it would. It said we would never be rid of it and it's true! Oh God we're going to die!!"

"Shut up Sho." Arata said harshly.

But the other woman wouldn't listen. She refused to listen. "'You'll never be rid of me! I'll come back!' That's what it said!! Oh God, Oh God, Oh God, Oh God- it's gonna get us! It's gonna get us!!" He bent forward violently at the waist, clutching her head shaking and sobbing. Akito pulled his robes back on, confused by this erratic display. He couldn't understand why the revealing of the bruising had such a violent reaction, considering that he hadn't even explained the particulars. His eyes locked on Sho and he sensed that her resolve to keep these secrets was weaker than the other two.

"What's are you talking about?" He said clearly, enunciating in such a way that should be able to get through to her. She answered, practically screamed through the mess of her hair, yellow eyes wild in barely contained insanity.

"BANE!!" She shrieked digging her nails into the sides of her face. "The bane is upon you!!"

SCENE CHANGE

Ayame had never been in Kureno's bedroom before. Considering that the two of them were hardly what you would call close and the fact that he avoided visiting the Main House on the best of occasions, he supposed that he really shouldn't have found this fact all that surprising. In different circumstances he might have enjoyed looking around and there were a most alluring stack of drawings on a table in the corner that would have been worth a browse. But now was not a different circumstance. Now was the worst of circumstances he could think of.

He moaned against Shigure's side, letting out a shrill whimper of despair as the inu was tugged from his grip and deposited roughly on the bed. A second later, Kureno moved Ayame beside him and watched the snake desperately turn himself in towards Shigure, seeking out the warmth giving body that gave him the most comfort. Shigure conformed and wrapped his arms around Ayame's lithe shoulders, pulling him in tight so that the entire length of their bodies aligned. Kureno watched interestedly, noting to Hatori as the doctor dragged himself into the room with much difficulty.

"Now there is a love that anyone would long for just once in a lifetime." He uttered as the two lovers curled together on the bed, comforting hands attempting to soothe over the fear and the confusion binding each and every moment. Hatori made a dismissive noise.

"I knew what such love was like. Once." He said blandly, noting the very bitterness he felt was ever so apparent in his speech. Kureno turned to him abruptly, eyes begging pardon.

"Forgive me. Sometimes I lack tact." He said with a small bow. "It was not my intention to dredge up painful memories for you Hatori."

"It's alright, I know you didn't. Besides... I think it's quite apparent that you yourself feel love for someone."

Kureno raised an eyebrow, intrigued. "What has brought you to that conclusion, might I ask?"

"The way you were holding him. There was tenderness in that, albeit he tries to hide it I'm sure." Hatori moved his head so that his bangs would not obscure his view of Kureno. He wanted to see the other man's expression.

There was merely a placid response, a silently mouthed 'oh' and the impression of mild amusement.

"Ah... you mean Akito?" He asked rhetorically, then chuckled. "Though one eye may not serve you fully Hatori, it is plain to see that you out of all the Sohma's see's the most." He tapped the skin beneath his eye as though to verify this and then winced as he made contact with the bruise. "Well that was smart Kureno... Oh anyway... do not get the wrong idea Hatori, about Akito and I. I was given to Akito as a servant from a very young age. I have been socialized to serve him, you must understand this. And after so many years naturally I have developed love for him. Love for the way he depends on me and love for the little parts of him that no one else is able to see. But that love is paternal Hatori. It is not the love shared between our two friends here." He gestured to Ayame and Shigure, embracing tightly on the bed, unaware of everything else going on around them. "Truly... there is something magical about this. Something one can't help but feel jealous of, if you know what I mean?"

He didn't wait for an answer, but stooped at the base of the bed and effectively relieved Ayame and Shigure of their boots, lining them up neatly against the wall. They shifted somewhat at the disturbance but made no move to assist Kureno in his task or hinder it. They appeared lost in one another. Or lost in their individual thoughts and merely clinging to one another as an life support into reality, to keep themselves treading water in the turmoiltuous sea of their hidden contemplation's.

"The poor dears..." Kureno murmured as he stood up, shaking his head sadly. He gave Hatori a pat on the back, his tone cheering up slightly. "I'm going to make some tea. Do you want a cup?"

"Would it be possible to get a coffee?" The doctor asked, feeling as though the caffeine would do him good. Kureno smiled and nodded.

"Of course, it's no trouble at all. Just keep an eye on them until I get back." With that he disappeared up the hallway and back the way they came. Hatori was left alone with his two best friends and the terrible task he had to complete. He sighed and brushed back his bangs, feeling like today had been the longest day in a long time. Everything seemed to be moving so slowly, each bad feeling intent on being dragged out to the agonizing maximum. And he refused to let this one be carried on for any longer.

He glanced over at Ayame and Shigure again. To his amazement, he found that they were asleep. Shigure undoubtedly was exhausted from his tiring run from the Old Road back to the Main House and Ayame was probably worn out from his short possession or the Eviction's affect on him. One or the other was probable. This actually made things easier as the Erasing could take place whilst an individual was asleep and it meant he wouldn't have to witness Ayame and Shigure's betrayed expressions when they realized what it was he was doing.

Hatori made his way over to the bed and as gently as he could sat down on the edge of it. He was thankful that Kureno was not a big fan of futon's as that would have made the act of seating himself twice as difficult. For a moment he watched the peaceful expressions on his friends' faces. Ayame's lips parted slightly and the breaths were drawing in and out with barely the minimal of sound. His hands were pressed into the small of Shigure's back, locked around him as securely as the clasp on a diary with no intention of every being broken. Shigure's face was buried in Ayame's mass of hair and his breathing was labored. Heavy. But he seemed content regardless. But sleep had taken that agony away from them and in the light of the next day, it would all be too real again. And then, as Akito had said, the poisoning would begin and Hatori couldn't bear the heartbreak again. The sorrow alone of seeing his two dearest friends waste away as Kana had and ultimately the inevitability that they would not be able to remain together. The memory of the terror would be further enhanced by the presence of each other. Yet Hatori couldn't seem to fool himself into believing that he was saving them, despite knowing this. But what Kureno had said, about his love for Akito, reminded him of the love he had for Ayame and Shigure. He would not allow them to suffer. And if the cost was the memories that would tear them apart from inside than that was a sacrifice that he was sure they'd be willing to make.

Hatori lightly touched Ayame's cheek and settled his hand over the closed eyes. Ayame mumbled softly at the contact made didn't wake up. There was moisture in Hatori's eyes as he held his hand in place, focusing his energy on the erasing process.

"Everything will be all right..." And they came. The words that always came whenever he was about to erase someone's memory. They were of a comfort to him somehow. "In the morning, it will all be nothing but a bad dream. One more nightmare you can forget about."

But some nightmares can't be forgotten.

SCENE CHANGE

When Kureno made his way through the entranceway of the Main House no one was there. He supposed the Family Elder's had returned to their daily duty's and that Akito had gone on his way. The only evidence of their ritual was the large white smudge where he had drawn the Kanji. He was pleased that the Eviction had gone as planned but many a great deal of things worried him. Though they were exemplary at hiding it, Kureno could see that it was of some concern to the other Elder's as well. He made a mental note to speak with them as soon as possible.

Kureno had the door to the kitchen part way open when he was distracted by the sound of music. He turned his head, trying to judge where it was coming from. The Music Room was a couple of doors away and he guessed that this was the most likely explanation. With that in mind he put the coffee and tea on hold and decided to follow the music. As he made his way up the hall it was clear that someone was playing the piano. And playing it quite well at that. The notes were clear and concise. Falling together in beautiful synchronized fashion, in such a heartbreakingly perfect way. Kureno peeked his head around the door to the music room, expecting to find one of the Elders at the piano or even a servant who had given into the temptation to play the magnificent oak instrument. Which was why he was so stunned to see none other than Akito sitting before the piano, his long fingers playing skillfully over the keys. Kureno couldn't help but move closer, mouth gaping slightly ajar at the magnificent melody the Family Master was tapping out. His fingers flew along the keys quickly but accurately, up to one end of the piano then back. The tune was mournful yet beautiful. It seemed to speak of all the feelings Akito embodied. Indeed as he played, he appeared to be lulling himself into a delicate sense of personal intimacy with the piano as if the somber notes were indeed the autobiographical tale of his sufferings. Kureno felt his eyes well with tears. Truly he had never witnessed such pulchritude in the art of music. Such splendor and beauty.

Akito's fingers paused on the keys and he turned his head slightly so he could see Kureno. A delicate smile played on his lips.

"Come in." He said, gesturing to the space beside him. "I've been waiting for you. There's something I would very much like to show you."

"There's already so much you have showed me." Kureno whispered, unable to keep the emotion from his voice. He simply longed to shower Akito with kisses; his face, his cheeks, his lips... It was as though the dusky essence that poured from the piano was making love to him and it was Akito conducting each and every arch of ecstasy. Of course he had heard people playing the piano before with exceptional skill but nothing that rivaled this. There was the art of making music alone and then there was the art of making love to that music.

Akito smiled a little coyly. "Thankyou."

Kureno made his way over and sat down beside him, focusing his gaze on him with an unwavering admiration. It was shameful, the adoration he felt for his master at that moment. It border lined embarrassing. Truly at that moment he may just have agreed with Hatori that there was love of an intimate nature for Akito. His brown eyes spoke of this and Akito was acutely aware of it. And enjoyed seeing the effect his spell had over the older man.

"I was unaware that you were able to make such music." Kureno admitted, sliding his hand up over the keys to rest on Akito's. Their fingers intertwined and Kureno's thumb lightly sponged the fleshy part of Akito's thumb. The younger man seemed surprised at the attention but used it to his advantage. One of the most dangerous things about Akito was his sex appeal and he was prone to using it to get his way more often than not. Now though, there was really nothing to gain from playing up to Kureno's actions. Only the thrill of flirting and that was something Akito was not used to receiving himself. Particularly not with Kureno. The only real... well, friend he had. He couldn't let that be ruined. With a tepid sigh he pulled his hand away, but in way that didn't look deliberately offensive. Kureno didn't seem offended, he simply continued to look at Akito in that perma amazed way as though the boy had sprouted angel wings from his shoulder blades. The Family Master cleared his throat and forced a smile.

"I don't remember who taught me... but I learnt. And for as long as I can remember I practised." He played a few notes as though to support this statement. "When no one could see me or hear me. Late at night if I had to."

Kureno shook his head. "I don't believe it."

"I'm good at hiding things."

Akito continued to play an unfamiliar melody, as Kureno observed, soothed by the passionate sound of the notes. He had never known Akito to be passionate in anything and this was thrilling to see as well as hear.

"Is this what you wanted to show me?" He asked as the Master's fingers traveled across the black keys like the articulate brush strokes of a painter. Akito immediately stopped playing at these words and he grew deadly serious. Yet there was no malice detectable in his voice, such as there normally was when he was serious. Only a cold certainty and a trace of respect deep within.

"Kureno... a little while ago I... I had a dream..." He said, immediately berating himself for how stupid this sounded. There was no sure-fire way to convince someone of something than telling them that it 'came to you in a dream.' "I know that this probably sounds like folderol but... there was a woman in my dream and she was singing. It's strange... but... in that moment I felt as though the words she sang, the tune, everything... it felt familiar to me somehow." He chuckled suddenly as though suddenly ashamed of himself. "Call me crazy but I... I felt like maybe somehow you'd know the song. It was like this woman who was singing it was here at some point and I figured that since you've been around a tad longer than me, you might just recognize it."

Kureno considered. "Can you play it? Remember the words?"

"That's just the thing; I can!" The boy declared, setting his fingers against the keys in renewed determination. "It's almost like they're flowing through me even as we speak. The tune, though I've never played it. The words, though I've never spoken them... but Kureno... it's not like I can really sing you know..."

"You'd be surprised." The rooster said with feeling, making himself as comfortable on the piano stool as he could. "Besides, I'm not one to judge. And I may just know this song if you think you've heard it before. If it sounds familiar you've most likely heard it while you were a child and you've simply suppressed the exact knowing of its origin."

"Do you think?" Akito wondered.

Kureno nodded. "I wouldn't be surprised. In any event, play it for me and sing the words. I may just be able to tell you."

Akito gave a nod in reply and gazed down at his hands as if to make sure that they were in the right places. When he had affirmed this, his fingers began to flow across the keys and the music came. Soft, lulling and sweet. And then Akito's voice joined it and there was the essence of hope and longing within the words. Kureno couldn't believe the power of the voice Akito was revealing. Despite having something of a scratchy edge to it when speaking, the act of singing seemed to smooth his voice out so that it flowed like the sweetest of honey through a warm breeze. It was gentle, though feminine in it's properties, so much so that it may have been mistaken it for a woman singing. And it was this that concerned Kureno, because the first time he had heard this particular song being sung, it had been by a woman. And there was little discerning difference between her voice and Akito's.

"I was so happy when you smiled

your smile breaks through the clouds of gray

Far from the sunny days that lie in sleep

Waiting with patience for the spring

When the flowers will bloom renewed again

Knowing there's more beyond the pain of today

Although the scars of yesterday remain

You can go on living as much as your heard believes

You can't be born again although you can change

Let's stay together always

Whenever you cried I cried for you

I'd always remain to dry you tears

So I could see into those eyes I longed to look into

And the day that you turned and walked away

I cried 'till my eyes began to burn

Praying for the day whenever you'd return

But now you've gone, you've flown away

Heaven's called you back to where you came

You can't be born again and nothing will change

We'll never have together anyway

I was so happy when you smiled

Your smile broke through the clouds of gray

Lifting me up from winter's icy touch

I waited with patience for the spring

When you'd come home to be with me again

Hoping there'd be no more pain beyond today

But the scars of yesterday remain

And I will go on living because my heart believes

I won't be born again but I still can change

I'll wait forever always."

Akito finished the final note and lowered his head, eyes closed to savour the song in everything it was able to give him. He waited for Kureno's reaction; silently hoping the rooster would be able to reward him with the answer he wanted. The older man leaned close to whisper something, his voice guarded.

"We've got company."

Akito immediately turned to the door, climbing to his feet so he was better able to face the intrusion. He wasn't prepared for who it actually was however.

"Uh... Excuse me!" Ritsu cried, bowing reflexively at the Family Master and nearly upending the large suitcase that he was dragging with him. "I'm sorry to disturb you like this! It must be such an imposition, I apologize!"

"I'll get rid of him." Kureno nominated grimly as he got to his feet. Akito raised a hand to indicate he cease his actions and turned his attention back to the chestnut haired monkey of the zodiac who seemed too fearful to even raise himself from a bow. Though he didn't know the boy very well Akito had heard a few interesting stories about the reclusive Ritsu Sohma. The most obvious being that he cross-dressed because he felt less pressured to conform to masculine standards. Today however there was no sign of a lacy ribbon or feminine garment in sight. The boy was wearing a conservative pair of jeans and a designer shirt with small black vines encircling up around one shoulder. His long hair was tied back in a ponytail with longer bits loose at the front. Apparently he was only a year older than Akito, a fact that amused to the Family Master to some point. He seemed much younger by confidence standards.

"You can stand up." Akito said, feeling it was pretty generous of him to allow the monkey the privilege. Ritsu balked a bit at the address and then straightened up, stammering awkwardly the whole time.

"T-thankyou." He stuttered, lowering his head so he wouldn't have to meet the intimidating Family Master's gaze. His hands were folded demurely in front of him, gripping the handle of the suitcase so tightly his knuckles had gone white.

Kureno set his hand against his hip, cocking an eyebrow at his fellow zodiac member. "Mr. Ritsu, what are you doing here?" He asked, not bothering to hide his annoyance. Ritsu jumped again and looked as though he was about to burst into tears.

"I... I-I'm sorry! I know I'm such a bother!"

"You'd be less of one if you would be so kind as to answer the question." Said the rooster irritably.

Ritsu nodded, feeling his face burn with embarrassment. How he wished that there were someone else standing beside him so that he would not feel so intimidated!

"Yes! I'm sorry." He repeated, despite Kureno's obvious hint to him ceasing the incessant apologizing. "You see I... well I c-came down from the Hot springs to see Ayame on Saturday and... I just stopped in at the Main House to inform everyone that I was here and whether there was a room available for me to stay in and... I heard the piano and- I'm sorry! I just wanted to come see who was playing! The music was beautiful!"

"Thankyou." Akito said modestly with a nod of his head. "Yet that doesn't excuse the fact that you're a sniveling little busy body now does it?"

"You're right! I'm sorry! I'm so sorry!!" The monkey sobbed, bowing as many times as he could handle it without getting dizzy. "I'll go away now! I'm sorry, I promise I'll never bother you again!!"

Just as he was about to make good his escape, Akito raised his hand again, this time to him.

"Don't run away." He said in a scolding voice, seating himself back down on the piano stool. "I'm flattered that you liked my music. Perhaps the song reminded you of something?"

Ritsu paused in his act of retreating and gave a hesitant glance in Akito's direction, questioning the genuine nature of this question. It seemed to be, so he turned back around and took a step into the room. This must have been Akito's idea of small talk, he figured.

"Well... actually... it did remind me of something... sir..." He affirmed blushing. It was nerve-wracking speaking with the family master like this! He was glad now that he'd gone to the toilet as soon as he'd gotten here; otherwise he may just have wet himself!

Akito leaned forward anxiously, long hands pressed to the bony contours of his kneecaps. He was practically dying to know!

"What does it remind you of?"

Ritsu considered it for a moment. "When I was very little... and my family stayed at the Main House for whatever the reason... I remember always being afraid to go up those stairs to where your room is now."

"Why?"

"I was... frightened... Because every time I'd go near and so much as look up, I'd hear this- woman singing... singing the saddest song I'd ever heard." Ritsu shivered as he thought back to those memories as a child. Memories he hadn't stinted on for years. "I don't remember exactly... but- I believe it sounded something like that song you were just singing right now sir... beautiful... but heartbreaking... I'm sorry." He added pointlessly, afraid that he had offended somehow. But Akito was deep in though, thumbnail pressed to the upper arch of his lip and eyebrows furrowed.

"A voice that frightened you... from my room?" He repeated. Ritsu nodded. "So then... that room has always been used by family master's. It couldn't have been anyone else but one..."

"Simple when you think about it, is it not?" Kureno said disconnectedly from his side. He turned and met Akito's eyes with his own and there was pity there. And remorse. Remorse at the truth that had been unveiled. "Perhaps this dream of yours told of the past after all Akito. For it was your mother, Tamiko, that wrote that song- thirteen years ago."

Authors note: Hoo boy I love my cliffhangers! Sorry, I know I was supposed to reveal the secret about the floorboard in this chapter but it was already long enough as it was and I thought it could be best put to use in the next chapter. Uh so... R and R but no flammies for the record. Spoiler for next chapter: The secret about the floorboard will be revealed, Ayame and Shigure will have some lemon and much wangst will ensure. For a change. Join me next time if you need an overload of angsty junk that may possibly make your think philosophical thoughts of the Universe and how everything is made from the same essence. Stay tuned!