The Whisperer

Disclaimer:"…"

Iori is an actual character that never had his name mentioned but is in the manga form of the series. Despite that this story is using characters from the various versions of the series; this story is a follow up to the novels and anime.

--

Chapter 32

It took three rings before the phone was answered. A deep voice answered.

"Hello."

"Yes we spoke before about a proposition. You helped me in a very bad situation." A voice not nearly as deep spoke. The caller sounded young.

"Oh yes I recognize your voice. How have you been?"

"Excellent, for the most part. I am having troubles with some people."

"That's a shame but what did you call for?"

"About our proposition. I would like to put it on hold. I may have some other assets I can use."

"Really… can you tell me about this? You know if you go off doing illegal things, and becoming a problem you will be turned into a prisoner or worse."

"I understand."

"Then please, explain."

"Good bye."

"Don't…"

The deep voice called but the caller already ended the communication. She man stared at the communication radio before hanging up the headset. He pulled out a cigar and lit it. The man's face wasn't visible in the dimly lit room.

"What could he be doing?"

--

"Come on, come on, hurry…" She kept her voice low as she repeated her chant. They had only five minutes left before school was over and they would officially be on summer vacation. She had all sorts of plans racing around her head. Beaches, maybe a party, fairs. She was planning on having the greatest summer of her life. Her last summer was ruined by a certain sergeant. She spent a couple of days doing nothing while he fought in Helmajistan, and then when he came back he tricked her into thinking they would be going on vacation, just for him to pull her to a military submarine, and almost get her killed. One of the things she wanted to do was spend more time with Sousuke. Even though they were together now, he was still getting into trouble. She still remembered the incident a while ago. Mika was a really perky girl, she could tell she liked Sousuke a lot. From the story he told her she caused him a lot of trouble though.

She was getting anxious, and losing her patience. She felt as though time were teasing her because this was one of the longest five minutes of her life. Most of the class was loud and talking to each other also awaiting the time to pass. She decided to distract herself as well. She turned to her recent source of happiness, and still trouble. Two days ago he used a grenade on an arcade machine over-reacting to her dieing in the game. Yesterday he had been called back to Mithril with Kurz to take care of a mission leaving Melissa to watch over Tessa, and Leonard by herself. Kaname had complained if he was going to miss the last day of school but it was a brief mission which he returned from at 4 am that night. Right now unfortunately he did not look too happy.

Sousuke eyed the clock as if it were a horrible enemy. He had been dreading this all day. He knew it was unavoidable but it was just one of those things you didn't want to do. He had made his decision. He would come back if he could. But what he planned on getting ready to do would be a lot of trouble, and very dangerous. He was unsure of exactly what would happen but he had to do it. He already had everything prepared to go. He made sure he had left his last day open. Suddenly he felt as if someone was watching him. When he followed the feeling he found Kaname. She blushed and quickly turned away. He felt this was suspicious, but she turned back and lightly waved at him. He nodded before turning back to the clock.

RING!

"Goodbye class. See you next year." Ms. Kagurazaka waved as she dismissed them. Sousuke remained seated as students rushed out of the classroom. Screaming and shouting as they made their escape. It sounded like a stampede was running down the hall as classes of students flooded out mixing the sounds of their feet. He waited until the sound had calmed down meaning students were walking again, and most of them were gone. He stayed seated preparing, breathing deeply, and preparing himself for the rest of the day.

"What's wrong?" He went to turn his head to look behind him but two arms rest on his shoulders interlocking on his chest, and something rested on his head. He recognized the scent, feel, and voice all too easily.

"Remember. I told you I would be going on a mission tomorrow. I am unsure of how things will turn out and how long I will be gone."

"Oh." She pressed a little closer leaning her weight on him a bit more. She felt him lean back against her to balance out the weight. "Well I'll be here when you get back."

Kaname really preferred him not to leave but she knew she couldn't stop him. When he had something he felt he had to do, he wouldn't stop no matter what. He wouldn't let anything stop him. That's why she was back.

"But I may not return."

"I will be here WHEN you get back." She made sure to emphasize that he would be coming back.

"Understood. I will hurry then."

"Good." She lifted off him using his back to push herself up. Sousuke immediately stood up, pushed the chair in and grabbed his bag.

"You two stay safe." Eri Kagurazaka said her good-bye as she exited the classroom leaving Sousuke, and Kaname by themselves. Kaname wrapped her arms around Sousuke's neck and pulled him down, as she rose to meet him. Sousuke held her waist. Their lips met softly. After a few moments they released each other. "I really do not wish to leave."

"But it's important right?"

"Affirmative." Sousuke lowered his head as he answered. He may have been displeased now but when he actually set out to complete his mission he would approach it with zealous.

"Well let's go before anyone gets suspicious that we're up to after school activities."

"I do not understand?"

"I didn't tell you? The girls are waiting."

Sousuke nodded. He preferred it this way. At least while he was gone she wouldn't be lonely. He did not feel safe leaving her alone but she should be okay. No more terrorist were after her. Sousuke followed her out the door. None of them spoke as they walked to the exit of the school. They saw small groups of friends gathered around to either make summer plans or say goodbyes for now.

They finally exited the school. Kyouko and the others were waiting for them by the steps as she said.

"Hey guys." Kaname said as she walked down the steps.

"Hey what took you two so long?" Maya said as she waved. The others did as well.

"Sousuke had some last second jitters about school ending." Kaname said as she approached them.

"Let's get a picture. Next year we'll be juniors, and since this is our most eventful year ever I think we should commemorate this occasion." Kyouko suggested. She bought a new camera just for the occasion.

"Sounds good. But don't take too long remember there's a party at Iori's." As Kyouko pulled out her camera and set up the very compact tri-stand. Everyone stepped into a suitable position. Hayashimizu, and Ren walked up.

"Hello. The school year is over, everyone seems happy for it. It is a shame to not see you for awhile."

"Awe. Don't worry Atsunobu we'll call. We hung out together last summer we can still do it this summer." Shiori flapped her hand as she answered.

"Well yes you are right."

"Wow you'll be a senior next year awesome." Ryo piped in.

"Well yes."

"He will also remain president for his time here." Ren finally stepped into the conversation.

"We can talk later why don't you two join the photo." Kaname pushed them over.

Tsubaki suddenly appeared out of nowhere. Mizuki was still following him.

"Sagara I challenge you. We finish this now."

"Negative. Today is not the day for battle. I do not have time."

"Our last battle ended in a draw. I cannot accept that."

"Listen just cool it and come join the picture." Kaname grabbed him and pulled him over. Tsubaki blushed and went baby eyed for a moment.

"Heheh, yes Kaname." Mizuki humphed as she followed, taking place next to Tsubaki. She gave Kaname a look as she went back to her position.

"Okay ready." Kyouko called out as she moved to join the group. Shinji and Ono-D walked up. "Hey wait for us!"

On the left stood Tsubaki, Mizuki next to him. Ono-D crouched in front of Maya, and Ryo. Shinji crouched in front of Shiori on the other end. Next to her Hayashimizu who was holding Ren. Kyouko, and Kaname stood in the middle. Sousuke stood in the back to the side. Kyouko did not let this go unnoticed.

"Hey Sousuke what are you doing back there. Don't you want be in the picture."

"I am in the picture."

"Not like that." Kyouko walked over and grabbed his wrist pulling him over.

"You should be here with us, with Kaname."

"That is not necessary."

Tsubaki clenched his fist. "Hey why does Sagara get to stand with Kaname?"

Kyouko gave him a hard look. "Because he's her boyfriend."

Kaname, and Sousuke blushed as he was pushed next to her. They could feel the smiles on everyone faces as they smiled at them.

"Ok now we're ready."

Now the picture had Sousuke on one end Kaname and Kyouko on the other. Kaname touched his hand which he then wrapped around hers. They heard the click as the picture was taken.

"Now let's get couples photos, and stuff." Kyouko said preparing to take the pictures herself now.

--

The music was loud, and the house was somewhat crowded. Sousuke, Kaname, and the gang were not the only ones to come to the party. Some of their other friends, as well as some of Iori's own friends had come. They did not spend much time with Iori but they did do a few things with him. He had gone with them to a new year's festival where Kaname, and Kyouko were cosplaying as maidens, but were really just working in a gift shop for some money. He liked to draw, and even had his own website.

Now he was hosting an end of the school year party which he expected them to attend. So they did.

Sousuke did not like what he saw as he looked around. Though the house was nice, and large enough to hold the amount of people here he did not like the idea of unsupervised high-schoolers drinking. He had bad experiences with alcohol before. Sousuke spotted Iori at the other end of the room. He must have noticed them too because he waved them over. They pushed through groups of people to get to him.

"Hey guys what's up?" Iori said stepping away from his conversation.

"Hey Iori how are you?" Kaname said.

"Me I'm great. How are you guys?"

"We're fine."

"Yeah we're great, and Kana-chan and Sousuke are together now." Kyouko shot in. Kaname turned to glare at her.

"Really that's great. Sousuke's a cool guy. Speaking of which did you bring your guns to the party?"

"Affirmative."

"Awesome but don't go crazy or anything. My and my parents' rooms are locked. So you guys have to use the guest room if you want to do anything. Same for everyone else."

"Roger."

"Hey wait a minute!" Kaname shouted realizing what he meant.

"So guys enjoy the party." Iori ran off before Sousuke realized what he meant as well. Kaname eyed Sousuke then turned to Kyouko.

"I didn't eat lunch today. Let's go see what they have to eat Ky."

"Sure. See you Sousuke be careful." Kyouko said as Kaname pulled her along.

Sousuke looked around the room. He spotted Tsubaki, Mizuki, Ryo, Ono-D, Maya, Shinji and Shiori each off doing something. Even Hayashimizu and Ren were here but he knew they would not get rowdy. Sousuke remained very serious and a bit more on edge. He was always serious about parties, and after what happened on the sub he felt he had good reason to be. His work for Mithril the other day was a simple task as well. A terrorist group was injured and was almost completely destroyed. They needed someone good with stealth, and of course a sniper in case, so they called in their two best men. The upgrades to the TDD-1 made the submarine much faster. They were able to go forwards and back in less than a day. The mission was a success.

Sousuke walked to a corner of the room to watch over the party goers. He would not be able to watch the people upstairs but he kept his ear open.

He listened to the music, as well as the sound of people talking, drinking, and eating. He heard a thumping coming from upstairs. People spoke about the end of school, summer ideas, and some people trying to pick others up. He could smell alcohol, perfumes, colognes, smoke. He would have reacted to it but he figured someone was probably smoking. It smelled like it was coming from outside so it was all right. He spotted Kaname talking with some friends, and people he did not recognize. Suddenly a boy's hand made contact with her rear. He moved instantly. He saw Kaname turn and glare at him. He made an apologetic look. None of them saw what happened next. Sousuke leapt on the young man, he placed his knife against his neck.

"What are you up to?" Sousuke pressed the flat end of the knife against his neck.

"Wha-what are you…what are you talking about?" the young man said flinching when Sousuke removed the flat end to place the sharp end of the blade close enough for the boy to feel it. Sousuke bent forward when he felt something smack hard against the back of his head. The party stopped with the sound of the loud thwapp. Everyone turned their attention to them. "Sousuke what are you doing?"

"I saw this young man touch you. He may have panted a bomb, or collected DNA, or prepared to make some kind of move to abduct you. Or worse."

"What? Nah man. I was just copping a feel I didn't know she was your girl." The young man told the truth hoping to save his life.

"See Sousuke. I'll take care of him myself. I'm a big girl you know."

"Understood but it is still my responsibility to protect. If anything now more than ever."

"Really why is that?" She knew she wasn't his mission anymore. In fact he came back from Hong Kong to protect her because he wanted to.

"Because… You are…the most important person to me."

Kaname looked at him thoughtfully. "Thanks Sousuke. I'm sure you scared him enough though you can let him go." Her voice was as thoughtful as his expression.

Sousuke nodded then turned back to the young man. He lowered himself to whisper in his ear. "Be grateful you have been saved."

Sousuke put the knife away letting the young man up. He apologized once more then looked wearily at Sousuke before quickly entering another room.

"I apologize for misunderstanding."

"No don't apologize. You're supposed to do that if someone gropes Kana-chan. Just next time do it a little more controlled without getting so much attention." Kyouko corrected him. Kaname looked at her friend who was taking things a bit seriously. Kyouko smiled at her innocently before going off herself. The party slowly restored itself as Iori walked up to Sousuke and Kaname.

"What happened some one told me Sousuke was gonna kill a guy!"

Iori said as he stuffed a small sandwich into his mouth out of nervousness.

"Don't worry about it. Some guy groped me and Sergeant here took care of it."

"Oh boy is he dead?"

"Negative. Chidori asked me to spare his life. I thought he was a major threat, maybe planting something on Chidori, or planning to act against her in some way." Sousuke answered honestly.

"Well if that's all… at least everyone knows you're off limits now Kaname-san. You two have fun but please calm down buddy."

"I will calm down but I will not lower security.

"Sure. See you guys later." Iori returned to where he came.

"So Sousuke what do you want to do?" Kaname said as she tugged his sleeve. He turned to her his usual expression in place.

"I am unsure of what to do. You know I have little experience in this field. Civilians engage in many activities I do not know which are specific to parties."

"I'm going to need to teach you to dance sometime. Let's sit down for awhile. I'm sure someone will bother us anyway though. If nothing interesting happens we can leave early."

"OK."

--

"Where am I? I've been here before. What is happening? I remember now. It happened again. I wonder how long it will take this time. If it ever ends. This place is so boring. It would be dangerous for to come here again. almost died last time. Maybe I can locate another out. I wonder if is alright. Maybe I will not escape this time. Maybe has a replacement. No, I must have faith. will come. I will wait. Oh look information. Making a video-game easier. Perhaps I will look into this."

--

"Hello Tessa." Mac said over the link. Tessa had communicated the TDD-1 to inform them of her return. Now that school was over, and she still had a sub to run and to make sure a new partnership went through she felt she had to return. Even if she was enjoying normal life.

"As you know I will be returning in a couple of days. First I will be preparing. Leonard will be returning as well. So how is Dana doing?"

"She fine. She isn't giving me trouble."

"That's good to hear. How are your people cooperating with mine?"

"We've had thirty arguments, two fights, and then some talking to explain things to each other. Their one big happy family."

"Wonderful." Tessa had a look of worried relief.

"Well I have to go I'll see you later." He did not wait for her goodbye as he hung up.

"Meanie." Tessa disconnected and put the headphones down. She had gone to a party at her friends house herself. She looked at the clock. It read 9 pm. Kurz, and Melissa would be back soon. She hadn't seen Leonard all day, and Sousuke hadn't dropped by for anything. She looked out the window. A light rain was starting which was surprising considering the huge down pour a week ago. She wondered what everyone was doing. Suddenly she heard a distant song. She walked into the kitchen to find her phone going off her ring tone playing. She looked at the caller I.D. before answering.

"Hi Shina."

"Hey Tess. Come to my house. Now that the party is over the girl's and I are going to have a sleepover. Can you make it?"

"Sure I just need to leave a note." Tessa hung up the phone and went in search of a piece of paper and pencil. She found it easily thanks to Sousuke's neatness.

When she finished she grabbed her things and ran out the door. She needed to hurry before the rain got worse.

A shadowed figure watched as the silver haired girl ran down the hall. A light smirk crossed his features as she turned the corner disappearing from his sight. He made no noise as he turned and reentered the darkness. "Perfect."

This figure watched as the silver-haired girl ran onto the sidewalk. He looked down upon her. She not once realized he watched her from above. She hailed a taxi and stepped inside. He grinned and placed something in his mouth before walking back inside.

"Too bad."

--

"Come on Sousuke!" Kaname called out from in front of him. They had left the party early and gone to her place. She changed her clothes while he went to his apartment to do the same. She put on a pink top with large flowing sleeves, with a white dress under and a pair of thick heeled wooden sandals. Sousuke wore a regular pair of black pants, shoes. He put on a black t-shirt, under his white button-shirt shirt. Now they were running through an empty park the light rain slowly dampening them, as sakura pedals lightly fell from the trees. Though it was not the season so not nearly as many pedals fell, only coming off from the breeze, and sprinkles of water.

Actually Sousuke was chasing Kaname. When they had entered the grove of trees she took off in front of him.

"Kaname please be careful." He called as he raced towards her. She span her sleeves, and dress flowing, the pedals dancing around her matching the color of her outfit. "Come." Her voice was soft as she called. Her fatal mistake was slowing down. Sousuke easily caught up and caught her midway. "You should not slow down when an enemy is chasing. If you are fortunate his stamina will most likely run out first."

"But you're not an enemy." She said as she placed her arms around him and rested against him. "Will you be staying tonight?" She pushed back a bit to look at him.

"Negative. I will be leaving tonight. I will not be able to stay."

"You can't stay. Just for the night."

"No. I'm sorry."

"It's ok. Let's make good with the time we have." She moved closer again. She felt bad saying those words. Not only was he leaving, he was slowly dieing. She hadn't forgotten just didn't think about it most of the time. Considering the circumstances she really did have to make all her time with him count. She rubbed her head against him before pressing closer. Sousuke wrapped his arms around her. He was finding it strange because this sort of thing was becoming natural. He felt her unease. That something was bothering her. He placed one hand on the back of her head.

"What's wrong Kaname?" She said nothing as they stood there. The rain had finally stopped, now they stood in the darkness of the park. Sousuke began rubbing her head. These things which he did not understand and saw no point in before started becoming a part of his life. Suddenly he heard her mumble something against his chest.

"What?" He moved back a bit.

"I'm sorry." She pushed him away a bit more. Sousuke was confused by her actions.

"For what? You have done nothing wrong."

He lifted her chin to force her to look at him. She looked to the side even as she faced him. After a moment she locked her gaze with him.

"Sorry. We're supposed to be having fun before you go. I'm just getting all mopy a little early."

Ba-dump. Sousuke felt a jump in his chest. He was staring at Kaname but not exactly. His face was frozen in amazing surprise. It still bewildered him how much she cared for him, and how he felt every time he was reminded of just how much. He couldn't help it he slowly pulled her close and kissed her. It still felt wonderful kissing her. It also confused him as to how such things could be.

Kaname slowly closed her eyes as they faces neared each other. The kiss was soft, and full of emotion. They didn't move. Nothing moved. They lost track of everything around them. Sousuke was about to pull back when he felt the loss of awareness but didn't. Suddenly the feeling was over. A material rubbed over his face he followed it turning around. "Let's go! I'm hungry. You're going to take me out to dinner tonight."

"Roger."

They walked silently through the dark park. It was still strange holding hands while walking. Despite the mood, the darkness of the night was comforting. They could see the lights coming from the street are of the city at the end of the park.

"Where would you like to eat?" Sousuke asked.

"Somewhere nice, but nothing too fancy." Kaname leaned against him as they walked wrapping her arm around his. Sousuke was surprised at first but moved into step. They were not far from the road now. After that they would just need to find a nice restaurant. They hailed a taxi from three passing by. They did not have a specific address but asked the driver to take them to a nice restaurant. Sousuke decided to be over specific in detail but the driver understood. They drove a few miles before the driver pulled in front of a restaurant by a manmade lake. The restaurant matched their specifications exactly. Sousuke gave the driver a tip then stepped back as he drove away.

"Nice man." Kaname said as she interlocked her arm around Sousuke's again.

"Yes."

The restaurant was definitely nice, but it was not one where you needed a suit, and dress to eat there.

"How many in the party?" A girl asked as they approached the counter.

"2 please." Kaname answered before Sousuke had a chance to say anything. The look on his face said he wanted to. He probably wanted specific placing for the most safety he could get form their seating but she did not want to take forever selecting a table. They followed the girl to a table in a corner.

"Here you are." The waitress left two menus before going back.

"You should have let me ask for a better location." Sousuke said as he pulled Kaname's seat for her.

"Thank you. We have a nice seat. A view of the lake and the city behind it." Kaname said as she sat down.

"But we are next to a window. An enemy could easily observe us." He said as he pushed her in.

"We're fine. You said no one was after me, and nothing has happened here personally."

"But Chido…"

"Ah ah ah." Kaname held her a finger up.

"Kaname, I have many enemies. Gauron is back as well."

"Don't worry about it. I can worry enough when you leave."

Sousuke looked at her for a few moments. He lost his focus when she blocked his view with a menu. "Here. Pick what you want to eat."

Sousuke took the menu and looked at her once more before opening it. They scanned the menus in silence. The waitress from before came back just as Kaname closed hers.

"May I take your order?" She said holding up a pen and notepad.

"Yes I would like the special soup, with a side of rice, and fish strips. That comes with the dipping sauce right?"

"Yes ma'am, and you sir."

Sousuke did not reply as he continued looking through the menu. Both of the girls waited 2 minutes before Kaname spoke up.

"Well Sousuke do you know what you want?"

"I will order the rice balls, a bowl of noodles, and some pork buns."

"Ok, and to drink."

"Water." Sousuke answered.

"Sousuke you want water. You can have that anytime you sure you don't want anything else?" Kaname said looking at him.

"Water is efficient and does not have unnecessary ingredients that soft drinks, and alcohols have."

Kaname looked at him hard a moment before smiling.

"You're the survival expert. Just water for both of us then." The waitress wrote down the order then went off.

"Thank you." Sousuke said.

"Huh, for what?" Kaname was confused.

"For not arguing this time, and agreeing with my logic."

"Your welc-hey! What do you mean this time. I don't argue with you all the time. I agree when your right."

"Sometimes. Most of the time you wish me to do things less efficient ways."

"You don't need to pull a gun out to do everything."

"I am not talking about those times."

"Hey I rode that stolen bike with you then didn't I. I also played bait for that pony guy. I didn't bother you much then."

"True but there are times where you have argued with me because you did not like my choice."

"Of course if I didn't like your choice."

"You should respect my choices."

"I do just… you don't need to blow up everything, and do some of the things you do. I respect you very much. If I did something to make you think otherwise I'm sorry."

"Thank you. I respect you as well Chidori."

"No problem now stop being such a baka. You were over-reacting a bit there."

"But I did not pull out my weapons or attack anyone."

"Good. Now keep it up."

The waitress walked up carrying a tray with the orders. "Here we are."

During dinner they spoke about times at school, and their friends. Kaname also told Sousuke what her plans for the summer were. Sousuke turned red when she offered to let him pick a new bathing suit for her when he got back. She enjoyed teasing him.

He paid the bill and they left the restaurant.

"Do you want to get a ride back?" Sousuke asked as they walked down the path to the sidewalk.

"No way. I want to spend as much time together as possible." Kaname said as she held his arm tighter. Sousuke did not reply. Kaname had changed a bit since her return. She had changed in certain ways that made her weaker but she eventually returned to normal over-time. Now she acted a bit differently because of their relationship. I was not so big a difference. She still hit him. She still got angry when he did something wrong. But she was more understanding, and forgiving. Heaven knows he needed. His body used to have a lot of bumps, and bruises. Right now he'd prefer if it was just that.

The walk back was silent. They stopped to browse a few windows as they walked. Sousuke didn't mind. He wasn't in a hurry, yet.

They walked mostly in silence. Exchanging a few words now and then. They would only briefly break contact at certain moments. It was strange for Sousuke. Soon he would be leaving this and going into back to battle. If it was a mission it would be fine but this could take him more then a few days. He sighed when they finally entered the neighborhood after a few hours of walking. He knew their time was coming to an end. So did Kaname because she tightened her hold on him. They walked for a few more minutes before finally reaching the front of her building.

They stopped and looked up at the building as though it offended them.

"I apologize for not yet being able to give you a proper summer vacation." Sousuke said as he continued looking up towards the building.

"Don't apologize. You've given me a lot of things no one else has."

"Understood." He looked down at her.

"You want to come in, or at least walked me to my door."

"Affirmative, but I cannot for if I do I will not be able to leave." Sousuke's aid seriously but Kaname giggled anyway, his confused expression afterwards made her laugh a bit harder. Even though he didn't understand why she was laughing he enjoyed hearing her laugh, and preferred this to crying. He knew she wouldn't cry though. She was too strong for that.

"Ok then. Please come back soon. I'll miss you." Kaname said.

"I will miss you too, very much." Sousuke cupped her cheek and slowly moved towards her. The kiss was soft. Kaname gave him entrance when his tongue ran along her lips. After several moments the kiss ended Sousuke stepping back.

"I have something I want you can carry with you. I can't trust you with the Bonta-kun so here take this." As Kaname said that she pulled up her hair and removed the red ribbon that was now hardly holding her hair at all. She held it out for Sousuke as her hair fell behind her.

Sousuke nodded as he took the red ribbon and examined it. He had no idea what to do with it. He could use it as a killing tool but that would ruin it and he doubted that was what she had in mind. He wasn't going to wear it in his hair. None the less he pocketed the item anyway. Sousuke looked at Kaname softly as he embraced her once more.

"I love you." Sousuke spoke softly, the words replacing a goodbye.

"I love you too. I'm serious about hurrying back." Kaname said wiping a tear from her eye and stepped back.

"I will. You have also given, and helped me more than anyone else I know." Sousuke said. "Don't forget if you are in danger have my phone. Though you will need to rely on yourself mostly because most likely I will not be able to return in time if at all." He added. Kaname placed two fingers over her lips then blew him a kiss as she walked into her building.

Sousuke stood silently as he watched her walk away. Perhaps for the last time, but he would try his hardest to make sure otherwise.

Kaname walked silently into the elevator. She did not cry which was good. Shedding a tear is fine but she did not cry. She took a deep breath as the elevator rose. She needed a 'pick me up' badly. The whole day had gone great.

'I wonder if Kyouko is free tomorrow.' She thought just as the elevator doors opened on her floor. She walked as though nothing were wrong to her door.

"He'll be back." She said as she grabbed her keys. She unlocked her door and stepped into the darkness of her apartment. She closed and locked the door behind her then turned to hit the light switch. Suddenly a terrible feeling ran up her spine. She lost her breath a moment, and her heart rate quickened. She slowly stepped back towards the door. She still had her phone but using it would make light and probably alert whatever was scaring her. It probably knew she was there because she came in. She wanted to call Sousuke. She hadn't felt this way since he left for Hong Kong. Her experience with Leonard had brought on a different feeling that still had not matched her fear of him being gone. Now she wished he had come with her. She knew the longer she waited the farther Sousuke got. She decided to make her way towards the door. There she felt it. It moved. She made a break for the door but was thrown back. She felt a tingling in her spine as he started to laugh.

"Well done. You almost escaped. You have been learning."

She recognized the voice. She knew who it was. Her suspicion was confirmed when he flipped the light switch. Her eyes widened when she was met with Gauron's twisted smile.

"Hello Angel. Happy to see me."

"You bastard!"

"Oh that's not very nice. What would Kashim think if he heard you saying such things?"

Kaname said nothing as she looked at him angrily. She stood up and slowly stepped back making her way towards her bat.

"Heh that doesn't matter though because Kashim is dead. Unfortunately I didn't get to do it personally."

Kaname's eyes widened. Not because the news surprised her but because they really had no idea he was alive. But then why would Gauron be here?

"He was killed in France. A bunch of new AS kicked his ass. It was a shame to hear about it." Gauron smiled at her walking towards her slowly as she stepped back. He looked at her confused when she didn't respond.

"What's the matter? You don't care that he's dead. Or does Kashim like you because you're a strong girl. Yes that must be it. Oh well it doesn't matter now."

Gauron pulled something from behind his back.

"You know this is cute. I've never seen one like this before it's very unique. One of a kind I think. Did you make it for him before?"

Gauron held up the custom made Bonta-kun.

"You asshole give it back." Kaname scowled as she continued moving back. She felt relief when she reached the wall and spotted her bat.

"You have quite a mouth. How do you expect to get it back if you're rude. Why don't you say the magic word. Maybe I'll give it back then. Or…" Gauron pulled a gun on the doll.

Kaname knew he was sick but threatening a doll. While she wanted to protect the doll she would not throw her life away for it. She lowered her head.

"May I have my doll back…" Kaname moved quickly. Gauron hardly had time to react as Kaname lunged towards him with the bat.

"PLEASE!"

The sound of metal banging could be heard as she smashed the bat in the side of his skull.

She was surprised when he didn't fall. Gauron turned and smiled at her.

"Smart-ass."

Kaname swung the bat again. Her eyes widened again when the bat stopped an inch from him, and vibrated a bit. She shrieked when the bat exploded, and she was sent flying back crashing through her balcony window.

"Nice move. That might have actually worked. You really are a smart girl. Kashim has rubbed off on you." Gauron smiled as he walked closer still holding the doll and gun.

"Wha-wha what was that?" Kaname asked shakily. She was having trouble moving, but still rose. She stood on her balcony. She hoped Sousuke would see what was going on and help her.

"I should shoot the doll but you did say please." Gauron smiled as he tossed her toy.

Kaname caught the doll and held it tight against her bosom.

"It was a nice conversation. But sadly I'm getting bored." Gauron aimed at her heart. Kaname moved to the side as he pulled the trigger. Little could be heard as the silencer made nothing of the shot's sound. Kaname winced, her arm stung from where the bullet had grazed her. She was even angrier that he ruined one of her favorite dresses.

"Hmm. You really have learned. It's a shame to ruin that nice dress. Since you won't stay still." Kaname looked shocked. Suddenly an incredible pain shocked through her body. She made small noises as she fell unconscious. Gauron pointed his gun at her again. He wanted her to see her death but he would take whatever. His finger slowly pulled on the trigger.

"Wait!" Gauron stopped and turned towards the intruder.

"What do you want?"

"Let us take her with us. We will return to the base and use her."

"And if I don't." Gauron pointed the gun at the intruder.

"How about I tell you some valuable information for her life."

"Heh, I doubt you could tell me anything worth my time."

"Sagara is alive."

Gauron looked at him hard, squinting his eyes at him.

"Kashim is dead."

"No he survived somehow. He's going away for awhile."

"How do you know?

"I have seen him, and it is not exactly the biggest secret."

"I see. Fine."

"Excellent will you please carry her. Be careful though."

"Fine. You better not be lying."

"Don't worry I'm not."

Gauron turned back to Kaname's unconscious form.

"Well Kashim what will you do now?"

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