The Whisperer

Disclaimer: "I do not own any of the official characters."

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Chapter 30

Nothing could be seen or heard in the silence of the pitch black apartment. You would have to be trained and less than a foot away to hear the low noises coming from the undecided mercenary. He was doing his morning stretches. He either did them elsewhere or had to wait until later before he could stretch, recently anyways. He wiped the sweat from himself with a towel once he finished. He looked around for the remote his innate senses and skills as good as ever. A low humming sound could be heard as the television was activated signaling his success. The low light coming from the box placed a dim cover across the room. Sousuke could finally be seen. His black beater was covered in sweat; his pants had stains of their own. His sticky hair stuck to his face as he removed a strand from his eye. He glanced at the television before switching to a news channel. He dropped the remote on the couch and made his way to the kitchen. As the light lit up the room it looked as if something new had been added to a small world. He looked around it examining the sink, utensils, and little things he could find. It seemed strange being able to do this. He remembered first coming back with Kaname. He had hardly any control of himself and almost did something he probably would have regretted right on the middle of the street. Another time in a hotel with their class around them. Either way he didn't think he should be doing it. But that was then. He had since gained control of himself, and had better experiences…mostly. He turned to the refrigerator. He didn't hesitate as he opened it and searched for a source of morning nutrients. He couldn't make to much noise or do anything that would startle Kaname. He grabbed the orange juice and decided a bowl of cereal would do. Actually right now he wished he had an MRE but that was one thing Kaname would not let him keep in her food storage. Once he prepared his breakfast he turned off the light and headed back to the living room. He placed the bowl and glass on the small table in front of him. He raised the volume to a hearable level but not loud enough to be heard from the room. He started eating as a reporter spoke about yesterday's events, and whatever else had come up.

"Another strange battle between the infamous devices known as arm-slaves broke out again yesterday. It did not look good for Mexico when unknown machines we actually assume were arm-slaves attacked a military base. Another group of arm-slaves appeared to fight the small group of AS. The battle ended in a victory for the group we assume were the good guys. Similar events have been happening around the world recently. We wonder if something is going on, and if the world leaders are going to do anything about it."

Sousuke roughly swallowed the next bite. He was unaware of another attack. Tessa, Leonard, Kurz, nor Melissa had been called back. He wondered why Mithril would not take back such valuable members for such battles. Perhaps they did not have time but he was sure someone would have been informed. He should have been informed. Ever since the discovery of his life he was an off member of Mithril again now that he had been betrayed. Kaname was less than pleased that he would be working for another organization again therefore meaning his absence occasionally. They would call when they needed him. Tessa had confirmed it with Mardukas. Sousuke remembered how badly he was scolded when Mardukas found out he was alive.

He drank some juice a she continued listening to the report. They basically knew nothing except that there was a battle. They only stayed on the topic for a few minutes before switching over to a recent murder. It was unfortunate for such things to happen but he wanted nothing to do with it. He was hoping his next few days would be a little more boring than usual. Hayashimizu had ruined that yesterday. He had slept on the couch last night. He got enough sleep. Not that he couldn't probably go forever without it. He planned on going to his own apartment when Kaname woke up. He knew leaving would startle her when she couldn't find him. He also knew he would probably receive some form of scolding. As well his apartment had two other mercenaries in there and accidents can happen especially when someone suddenly tries to enter in the middle of the night whether they live there or not. He looked at the floor. He was getting too accustomed to being here. He hardly slept at his apartment; hell he hardly spent time in it except when he had to retrieve things. It was okay one of his missions was to make sure Kaname readapted well, so being around her so much was not a problem he thought. At least for the most part. While some times it can be exciting and more intriguing then usual, it could also be dangerous for her, or for him. He was lucky Kaname hadn't overreacted and had been quite understanding considering his condition. His thoughts drifted to Al. Though only an AI he was special. It was not fair to leave him cooped up for too long but he could not approach him now. Sousuke's memory was still somewhat loose. He could not place exact detail to certain things anymore going against his usual photocopy memory. He would worry about that later for now he was still supposed to rest.

--

The sun rays barely crept past the edges of the curtains. Kaname shuffled a bit before regrettably opening her eyes. The room was dim but fully visible. She refused to look at the clock as she moaned and turned over shoving a pillow over her head to block out any light from reaching her eyes. Yesterday was thankfully uneventful for her at least. She was glad to have a break. She was glad her old life had been mostly preserved, getting back to school was a bit easier than she thought. Sousuke had mentioned some kind of negotiation about it. She guessed he somehow convinced them to let her back ahead of time. She was still not a morning person though. Nothing had really changed much. She turned away form the curtain trying to regain her sleep.

Suddenly a loud explosion was heard along with a slight tremor. She shoved the pillow down hard against her face as she screamed, knowing exactly who was the cause of the problem meaning she would have to stop him before something happened. She could hear voices coming from outside. She jumped out of the bed and ran to her balcony.

'That military otaku is going to pay.' She thought of what he could have done as she rushed over slamming the door open and running to the edge. Sure enough there was Sousuke standing next to something now unidentifiable which he obviously exploded. A large truck was next to him along with two other men. He had his gun pointed at one of the three sitting on the floor obviously wondering what they had done to deserve his wrath. "Sousuke!"

Kaname heard him say something low before looking up towards her. "What is it Chidori?" He kept his gun fixed on the man on the floor.

"What do you think you're doing?"

"Upon my return I noticed these men were searching through the trash cans perhaps looking for something, maybe something of yours they could use. They said it was their job so I assumed they had been hired to complete this mission. I destroyed the content of the cans to make sure nothing could be used."

Kaname's expression soured as she stared down at him. Suddenly he grabbed one of the men by their collar and pulled him up. He let him go when a large pot smashed into his head.

"So sudden…Chidori what was the purpose of that?" He focused his attention on her again.

"They're the garbage men it's their jobs to clear out the buildings small garbage cans!" He looked down at the three men.

"Is this true?"

"Uh-huh."

"Yep."

"Sure."

He lowered his gun. "I see my apologies. Though I still do not understand why you needed to search through the garbage, however it is an important service to this country and I will no longer keep you waiting. Carry on." The men quickly tossed in the trash then one jumped into the driver, and they took off. Kaname sighed wondering if those men would change routes or not. She looked down again to find Sousuke missing.

"Where did he-eek!" She jumped when she felt a hand on her shoulder. She grabbed a pot and smashed it into her attacker her eyes closed.

"That was…very effective Chidori. It may have knocked out someone of lesser skills. "Sousuke slowly rose holding his jaw. Kaname opened her eyes realizing who had snuck up on her. She stepped forward and cupped his cheek. "Are you ok?"

"Affirmative. You have done much worse."

"Good." She smiled before hitting him again.

"What was the big idea sneaking up on me?"

"I felt the quickest way back up was by climbing. The balconies provide an easy way up jumping from one to the next. I landed on yours and assumed you had known. Just in case I decided to make you aware of my presence but as you can see that did not turn out to well for me."

"Well of course I didn't see you come up. I assumed someone snuck up here while you were gone."

Sousuke tapped on the pot twice. "That is good. It is better to assume an unknown as an enemy rather then an ally."

Kaname sighed before walking back inside. Sousuke followed her both items that had struck him in hand.

"What time is it?"

"It is currently 1200 hours, so noon."

"Noon I see. WHAT?" She turned and grabbed him by his collar. "How could you let me sleep so long?"

"You went to bed late last night so I assumed you wish to sleep longer."

Kaname lowered her head. "I going to shower. Don't cause any more trouble while I'm gone."

"Not a problem I have to head to my apartment anyway. I will return later. Call if something happens."

"You got it." Kaname grabbed towel and prepared to shower. Sousuke was still standing there.

"Something wrong sergeant?"

"Negative."

"Then why are you still standing there? Waiting for something." She had a thought as she awaited his answer. None came.

"Oh I see. You want to watch me undress, is that it mister pervert." Kaname began unbuttoning her top.

"Uh…"

"So that is what you're waiting for." She smiled wickedly as she unbuttoned it completely. She held it closed but let one end slide down her shoulder. "Enjoying yourself." She smiled seductively as Sousuke stood before her sweating. She turned around and let the garment slide off her arms catching it in one hand before tossing it over her head. It landed on Sousuke's head the sleeves looking like long ears off the side of his head. She turned her head to look at him keeping her back towards him. She pulled her hair over her shoulder so that it hung in front of her exposing the back of her white bra, and herself. She reached back and began unfastening the hook keeping her face in a seductive expression as she watched him. Suddenly he pulled the pajama top off his head tossed it towards her clothes hamper and walked towards the door. "I must go. I will see you later." With that he exited and locked the door. She giggled as she finished undressing and tossed her pajamas and panties in the hamper before wrapping a towel around her and walking into the shower.

Sousuke breathed deeply as he stood by her door. He was going to leave but was thinking of something when she started to undress in front of him. He wanted to leave but his body would not move. The look on her face as well as the sight of her almost unclothed form captured him.

'This is a problem. A specialist should have more control.' Of course he was not a specialist in the least when it came to woman, relationships or anything actually normal.

He collected himself before walking towards the stairs to exit the building.

Kaname stretched as she walked down the street. Her and Kyouko were going to spend a couple of hours doing some things before they studied again tonight. She spotted Kyouko already waiting at the designated meeting place.

"Hey Kyouko." She waved as she walked towards her. Kyouko waved back.

"Hi Kana so what do you want to do?"

"Well I just woke up so let's get as much done as possible. I'm not exactly looking forward to sitting around that table again."

"Awe but you get to sit with Sagara-kun again."

"…"

Kaname glared at Kyouko. Kyouko smiled then pulled her along towards the entrance to the mall.

"Let's go shopping. It's almost summer vacation maybe you should get a new bathing suit."

"No thanks. I bought a new one for the school trip which was pointless because Sousuke was a jerk that day, and I didn't even get to finish enjoying the trip."

"You said you had a better time where you went though."

"I just didn't want you guys to feel bad for me."

"Well let's shop, and play some games. Maybe you should get Sagara-kun a gift. He did get you that mirror, and that bracelet on your wrist."

Kyouko pointed towards the item holding the stone on her wrist.

"Oh but I never told you where I got this."

"I figured it out. You know he really seems sweet. You two make a good couple."

"Yeah if you mean we're magnets to danger, I thought opposites attracted but we both do the same thing."

"But you're both very different. That's why you like him right."

"Yep. Now let's go we're supposed to be having fun not talking about that melancholy sergeant of mine. Besides he already has a gift I gave him."

"Whatever you say Kana."

Kaname looked at her as they entered a clothing store. "What's that supposed to mean."

"Nothing."

Kaname sighed as they began searching for a variety of things.

Meanwhile…

"Yes I am enjoying this vacation very much. I'm glad they finally let me leave the sub." Tessa spoke with Mardukas for her check-up. She was supposed to contact the sub every three days.

"That's good Madame Captain. As you know there was an attack in Mexico yesterday. The enemy was completely neutralized. We have not figured out their purpose yet. Though we are working with the S.O.W. organization they are lost as to the complete reasons of the enemy as well. The pilots of theirs were able to work well with us as well. They have taken place for First Sergeant Weber, Second Lieutenant Mao, and though he will not be working with us as often Sergeant Sagara."

"That's good to hear. How is everyone doing off the battlefield?"

"Excellent ma'am. The SRT members have not reacted badly to their new allies. We have had some problems. It is natural to be worried about making a partnership with another group after what happened but we will be okay."

"Is that Tessa?" Another voice came in from the background. Tessa heard them speaking but could not understand the words over the radio set.

"Hey Tessa. It's me Mac. How are you doing?"

"I'm doing well how are you?"

"Mardukas is riding me to be a good captain. But otherwise okay."

Tessa could imagine the look Mardukas must have been giving him now and had to stifle a laugh.

"That's good. Well I must go I hope you all have fun."

"Fun…here that seems impossible."

Tessa giggled. "Goodbye Captain."

"Bye." The link was dropped on both sides. Tessa walked out to the living room.

"Where is Leonard?"

Kurz did not look away from the TV as he answered. "He's out on a date."

"Again?" Tessa was shocked Leonard had been going out a lot lately. He had been trying to get over Kaname seeing as she would not accept him despite what he felt was his obvious superiority to Sousuke in looks and mannerisms. Part of this was also to attempt to make her jealous.

"Yeah the lucky bastard. Mao's keeping an eye on him though. I've got to wait here for a couple of hours. "

"Oh I see. Well I'll make us some lunch then."

"Really. What are you going to make?"

"I'm really only good at making a special type of spaghetti. Sagara enjoyed it once."

"Well Sousuke has questionable taste…when it comes to food anyway, he's good at picking women." Kurz suddenly realized what he had said. "Not that you're not a good choice just umm…"

"It's okay. I understand I'll go make lunch." She smiled then turned around.

Kurz lowly cursed as she walked towards the kitchen. He turned back and started watching the television again.

"Damn Melissa and making me stay here."

The apartment was silent for about ten minutes before he heard Tessa shriek. He ran into the kitchen to find she had burned herself. "Tessa you okay?"

"Yes I'm fine no need to worry."

Kurz smiled at the tough little captain. "I'll help you know sometimes it's fun when more then one person cooks."

"You don't need-"

"It's no problem c'mon. I know you can do it by yourself but it's better then sitting there watching TV." He held his hand out to help her up. She smiled as she took his hand and was pulled up. "Okay."

While making the food Kurz tried multiple times to cheer her up a little bit at a time. He was sometimes successful sometimes she gave him a look like he would be in trouble if he continued along that path.

After waiting for it to finish lunch was pretty much similar.

"That was delicious."

"I said it was my specialty."

"You weren't kidding."

"Well thank you for helping. I think I'm going to go out. I'm actually supposed to help some friends study for their final exams tomorrow, and for later in the week."

"Yeah yeah. Don't worry about cleaning the stuff. I'll take care of it. You go have fun."

Tessa thanked him then grabbed some things before leaving the apartment.

"I wonder what Kaname is doing?" Tessa walked towards the elevator deciding to drop by her once co-prisoner, and rival. The day was warm and bright when she stepped out onto the sidewalk evidence of the summer. Just as she reached the crosswalk she noticed the blue haired girl walking with her photo loving friend. They were carrying one bag each and Sousuke was nowhere in sight…good. Tessa called out as she walked over. Kyouko and Kaname waved as she approached.

"Hi Kaname, Kyouko." Tessa lightly bowed when she approached them.

They both greeted her with similar responses. She noticed Kaname's strange look.

"What are you two doing?"

"Well we just got back from shopping now we have to go prepare to study." Kaname answered. Tessa noticed the girl's unease stretch. She focused on Kaname. Kaname felt a strange feeling then glared at Tessa.

"You know you aren't supposed to do that."

"I'm sorry."

Of course she was talking about using her whispered powers in a link, trying to forcibly probe her mind.

They heard a troubled grunt come from nearby. It sounded to be high up though. They looked around but spotted no one.

"Let's talk inside." Kaname motioned for Tessa to follow them. Tessa silently accepted the invitation and followed them in. The walk to her apartment was quiet. Kyouko was confused the whole time wondering what just happened. Kaname froze as she placed her key in the lock. She thought she heard something inside. She slowly pushed the door open and peaked inside telling the two behind her to wait outside. She heard more noise not much very low but spotted no one.

She slowly crept inside making almost no noise. She spotted her bedroom door handle turn. She prepared herself to see the intruder. The door opened and she felt relief, and curiosity wash over her. Sousuke stood in the doorway an expression of surprise on his face.

"Chidori." "Sousuke." They spoke each other's names simultaneously. Tessa, and Kyouko walked in without waiting for Kaname's to call them in.

"What are you doing here?" Kaname asked him gripping the bag in her hand tighter. He stood trying to focus. His mind was going crazy right now with an onslaught of thoughts, and emotions from anywhere he couldn't tell.

"I was looking for a certain item."

"What?"

"A disc. I left it here the first day we returned but I have not even thought about it since then. Now I cannot locate it."

"So you couldn't tell me, or wait for me to get back. You had to do it in secret."

Sousuke was hoping she wouldn't mention that. He noticed the disapproving glances he was receiving from all three girls.

"Uh…" He had no answer. He did not intend to do it without her knowledge but she was not home and he needed to find the disc.

"Well."

"I thought I was allowed to freely come here. Perhaps I was wrong." Kaname tinged when she saw the look of guilt on his face.

"No you can come here whenever you want it's just you were going through everything without me knowing. In my room no less."

"I did not mean to but you were not home. I made sure not to go into unwanted territory, I only looked in places I may have left it. I have not touched anything personal."

"Oh, well then I'll let it slide this time but don't think you can go sneaking around my place while I'm gone."

"Understood. I'm sorry."

Kaname pouted then walked over to him. She put down her bag then took his hand and placed one hand on his cheek. "It's okay."

Tessa watched in awe at the way Sousuke listened and respected Kaname. The way he looked at her. She was also wrong in the way she thought Sousuke would be treated. She felt jealous of the relationship. She did not catch the rest of their exchanged words before Kaname picked up the bag and headed towards the room. Kaname placed the bag under her bed before returning to the living room.

"Okay well we need to get ready for another study. Sousuke since you're here this time get the table. We girls are going to have a talk."

"Roger." He went off to fetch the study table.

The girls all walked into Kaname's kitchen. "So what's up Tessa?" Kaname asked as she opened her fridge.

"I just came by to see how you were doing."

"Kana-chan's been fine. Everyone has been real nice about her coming back and all. You should have seen some of the things that had to be done to get them back in and have everything fixed to help them. He worked really hard on it. Plus he paid a lot. But Sousuke has been taking good care of her."

Kaname glared at Kyouko. Some rumors had gone around the school since the field trip since she returned but nothing major or serious came up. She suspected her so-called friends to be the culprits. But she was also curious as to the rest of her statement.

"What do you mean worked hard and paid a lot?" She locked her gaze with Kyouko.

"Well while Sousuke was rescuing he also paid quite a bit of money to pay for damage to the city, and school. Though it said anonymous I figured it out. He came by the school before as well about one month before you came back. Aside from paying money he did some things to get them to let at least you back. They weren't going to accept him but Hayashimizu spoke in his defense. He was only here a couple of hours and I'm sure no one noticed him. I had to spy on them just to find out what was going on. Sousuke caught me but left me alone. I was still scared of him then. In fact everyone kind of was worried with him. We still are. But just because we're worried of something ads bad as that time happening again. Most people act like he's not even a mercenary though. In fact no one does not even me. I guess it's silly."

Kaname looked sad, but with a serious understanding expression. She looked somewhat cold this way.

"No it's very understandable. I was scared of Sousuke before. It's strange to see so much battle, and horrible things packed into a simple package in this peaceful country. Though you have those feelings you have to think sometimes how he feels, and what he goes through."

Tessa felt guilty looking at Kaname. She had little details about Sousuke's past. Kalinin knew more then anyone but he was still an enigma to most people. She could see the understanding and emotion in Kaname's eyes thinking of Sousuke in such ways. She felt the jealous envy again. Kaname has gone through a lot with Sousuke so she understood him more than anyone. She could also see that Kaname tried with Sousuke and didn't just blame him for everything he did.

"Wow Kaname. Now I feel bad." Kaname smiled at Kyouko when she said this.

"I see. I think I understand." Tessa nodded taking in what Kaname had just said making sure to remember it. Just then Sousuke walked into the kitchen.

"The table is ready."

All the girls stopped and stared at him. Taking a moment to look at Sousuke with the knowledge just departed. Kyouko shrugged her shoulders.

"I don't see it." She smiled and glanced at Kaname meeting her gaze in the process. Kaname figured she was joking. Tessa soon caught on.

"Me neither." The girls all began a low giggle group. Sousuke raised an eyebrow as he stood before them.

Tessa looked at Kaname.

"I see your doing well." Tessaresonated with Kaname.

"Quite." Kaname smirked as she responded.

They stopped when they saw Sousuke step back and grip his head.

Sousuke placed one hand on his head as he felt the familiar pain. He felt as if thousands of knives were piercing his skull and mind and scraping away at his brain. He heard two faint but familiar voices exchange words. Suddenly the rush of thoughts, and emotions took him. He clenched his teeth as he felt worry, and fear strongest in his mind. That along with the thoughts and many other emotions assaulted his mind.

What's wrong? Is he okay? What's happening? I'm so happy. Damn her. Look at the stupid kid. Damn she hot. What a cute dog.

Multiple thoughts slammed into his mind the pain in his head strengthening. His vision blurred but he was able to see Kaname approaching. Tessa ran to get a glass of water.

'Why this has not happened since then. I thought I had this under control.' Sousuke thought as he held his balance on the table. Suddenly images flashed before his eyes. Cages, special containers, experiments, people, strange machines, information all this he assumed were memories as they flashed across his mind. He thought back to the cause of his problem. Schneider. He rememberedthe man's face, along with many other machines and horrible images. Sousuke concentrated trying to hold back the pain, and oncoming wave.

"I should go…"

"To bed yes. I'll go set you up then bring you something to drink, and do you need pain relievers? "

"But…" Kaname kept her gaze on him not flinching for a moment. Sousuke knew she would not let this go. He wondered if she remembered he had promised to let her take care of him in this case. Of course this was not the same case at all. This was something different. So it was invalid right. He was about to continue protesting when he felt something warm wrap around his hand. He felt Kaname tug him towards the room. He held his ground not moving at all as she pulled. She stopped after five seconds.

"What now?"

"I will be fine. This is not like those other times. Going to bed is probably not a good idea. I just need to concentrate. I will take a short walk and return when I am better."

"That could take awhile. You have 20 minutes to come back."

"Understood." Sousuke nodded before heading out the apartment. Tessa and Kyouko watched them both confused.

"What just happened?" Tessa asked.

Kaname shrugged her shoulders in an 'I don't know' gesture and went back to her fridge.

"Well I have to help some of my friends study as well so should be going. It was good to see you." Tessa said before heading towards the front door as well. Kaname followed her.

"See you tomorrow Tessa." Kyouko said as they walked away. "Bye." She said as the two continued walking. Tessa turned around and looked at Kaname with a look that demanded an answer.

"I don't know already." Kaname sighed as she closed the door on Tessa. She opened when she knocked on her door.

"Good bye then."

"Bye." The girls shook hands before Tessa went on her way. Just as she turned the corner Mizuki, Ono-D, and Shinji all appeared at the same time. Kaname lowered her eyebrows.

Right on time haven't they heard of being late. Did they plan this? Kaname thought as they approached. She grimaced when ten seconds after Maya, Ryo, Mizuki and Shiori appeared.

Oh yeah they did it on purpose. They waved as they approached her.

Note to self. Use someone else's place to study next time. Its because I live alone they take advantage of it. She faked a smile when they came close. She let them all in hoping they had eaten before coming over. She did not fell like cooking and she doubted she had enough food to feed them all. That was another thing she had to remember she had to go shopping for groceries as soon as possible. She closed the door as she followed them in.

His head felt still felt as thought knives were carving up his brain. The onslaught of thoughts, and random images not his kept coming. The people unknowingly pelted him with every thought in their head. This power as Schneider called it was an affect of some experiments. He found Sousuke was special for some special reasons which had actually happened to no one else but him in the entire world. Sousuke remembered the cruel treatment, and the fear of the people around him. He may have told Kaname some things but he wanted to keep others secret. He stopped walking having only ten minutes to return to Kaname's apartment. He took slow deep breaths getting himself under control. He wondered what triggered the outburst he had kept under control for awhile. He felt Kaname, and Tessa's presence strongly the moment her felt it. The first time when they were near. He guessed it may have been triggered by the resonations strong telepathic link. He stood there in the middle of the sidewalk not caring who looked at him as he breathed and concentrated until he was okay. The thought of every passerby faded slowly. Many of them dedicated to wondering what he was doing. He stayed like this 1 whole minute after everything stopped. Making sure it was over. When he was sure he headed back towards Kaname's. He had a lot of studying to do. He did not hurry back seeing as he circled the block the distance was not far. He entered the apartment with his key. He could see that since the group was larger they had to better accommodate themselves. Kaname smiled when she noticed him. Others noticed and caught on to his presence.

"What's up!" Ono-d called when he saw him. He received similar greeting from the others.

"So why are you late this time?" Mizuki gave him an accusing look.

"I was taking a walk." He was telling the truth but his reasons he preferred secret.

"Well while you're relaxing were all getting ready to study. You sure you can do this today."

"We haven't even started yet." Shinji spoke but received a glare from her.

"Come one Sousuke ignore her. You can sit next to me see." Kaname patted the spot next to her. She received oohhs, and awws from her friends. Kaname glared at them but they continued their antics. Sousuke silently took his seat beside her. Kaname leaned over to whisper in his ear. "You okay now?"

"Affirmative."

"Good." Kaname turned towards her friends. They all had suggestive looks on their faces.

"What'd you tell him? You have plans for tonight after we leave." Ryo leaned towards Kaname from across the table.

"Yeah like last night Sousuke was the last to leave." Maya added in.

"If he left." Shiori tossed in.

"I'm sure they were very busy when we left." Mizuki tossed in another one of her retorts.

"Yeah that's why he cause so much trouble so he has an excuse to stay longer when we leave so he can have some fun." Ono-d decided to join in.

"They do enjoy each other's company, very much. Want to see?" Kyouko pulled out her camera and a small disc.

"Sure let's see if Sagara-kun and Kaname are being bad." Shinji jumped in too.

Kaname's face was red and if this were another world steam would be coming out of her ears.

"Thanks Kyouko you're such a great friend. Jeez why do you guys always pick on us."

"Cause we like too." Maya smiled as she answered.

"You must be jealous. In many cases many people make fun of, or tease the source of their jealousy." Sousuke answered placing his chin on his hand. All heads turned to him.

"Jealous…of you two. Yeah right. Kaname has questionable taste in men. That Leonard guy was hot but she is hanging around you. Even Issei's better if he weren't mine he'd be a better pick." Mizuki scowled at him.

Kaname gave her a scowl in return. "Tsubaki doesn't even like you, and aren't you being a bit cold?"

"No way." Mizuki looked towards the rest of the girls.

"Well maybe. He definitely had that sexy guy look but he looks kind of like a girl. Sousuke on the other hand. He looks better now then he did then. I don't know what he did when he left but he's gotten better looking. Beats your Tsubaki." Kaname was surprised to see Maya speak in Sousuke's defense.

"Hey!" Was al Mizuki could get out.

"Yeah but Leonard's hot. His look has a type of sexy masculinity with his look. You're right about Sousuke but how much can one person change. He's better but not that great." Ryo held up her hands in gestures to explain the difference. Kaname could not believe what was happening.

"I like Sagara-kun better. He's been with Kaname longer and he's a good person." Kyouko spoke up this time.

"Good. He helped destroy part of Tokyo, and is always causing trouble. Even now he blows up things." Mizuki started counting off his flaws. Kaname wanted to rip her head off and tell them about Leonard's participation. Hell if Sousuke loses a secret so can he.

"For your information Leonard was the one who captured me, hurt Kyouko, and caused me so much trouble. So before you start comparing them get all the facts." Kaname's knuckles turned white as she gripped the edge of the table. The room fell silent.

Kaname let her gaze slowly slide over each one of them. She stopped when she reached Sousuke. His look was that of soft disapproval.

"Kaname you should not have told them that. Some things are supposed to be kept secret."

"Yeah but she was…"

"Thank you for defending me but that was unnecessary."

"Well they know your secret so it's alright to give away Leonard's right. Nothing's going to happen."

Sousuke looked over everyone. "Will you all promise to keep this secret? If not we may have problems with other people."

Everyone looked at each other. After a good 30 seconds of deciding he received a nod from everyone.

"I'm glad you all understand how important this is."

Everyone nodded to him. He turned to Kaname.

"I'm sorry."

"It's not a problem."

They stared at each other. His deep gray eyes focusing on her reddish chocolate mix.

"You two going to kiss now?" Mizuki asked returning the mood to normal.

They both looked away a little red in the face.

"Okay Okay Let's get to studying!" Kyouko clapped once as she said this.

"Sure." Kaname sighed. This was going to be one hell of a study session.

She looked over at Sousuke who was looking down at his book. She gripped his hand under the table and gave a light squeeze. He looked at her out of the side of his eye and gave a light squeeze in return. When they released he pointed towards his book.

"I do not understand this."

They all leaned over to look.

"What that's easy!"

--

The things that happened to Sousuke actually happened in the novel and anime. So it will be from the main story of the series.