The Emcee: Here's chapter 3. R&R, enjoy.

Loss of Innocence: Chapter 3

Laying with Bankotsu in Bankotsu's bed was both calming and strange. Yes, Jakotsu had sometimes wondered what his friend looked like nude but, still. He'd never been so close to him and that fact made him a bit nervous. That and what happened a mere few hours ago. Sighing, Jakotsu turned over, facing the wall, trying to get to sleep. A pair of arms wrapped around him and he yelped slightly.

"Can't sleep?" Bankotsu's voice asked close to his ear. Jakotsu nodded and felt Bankotsu's hold around him tighten a little. "Cold?"

"Just a little," Jakotsu answered. More nervous than cold but, oh well, Jakotsu thought. The pair lay together like that; Bankotsu's soft snores reaching the other's ears. Turning in the embrace, Jakotsu laid his head against Bankotsu's chest. It's strange. I feel so calm now. He yawned and closed his eyes. I wonder why...

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The next morning, Jakotsu woke up to find the bed empty of Bankotsu. He sat up and yawned, trying to recall the events of the night before that lead him to this awkward position. I remember Renkotsu coming in my room. And I remember Bankotsu killing him. I also remember laying here with Bankotsu's arms around me. Or maybe it wasn't a memory but, a dream. I don't know... His thoughts were interrupted by the door sliding opening and Bankotsu stepping into the room.

"How are you feeling?" he asked.

"I'm good. A little foggy but, still good," Jakotsu said, smiling up at him. Bankotsu smiled as well.

"Good. Come, breakfast is ready." Jakotsu nodded and got out of bed. He and Bankotsu walked down the long hallway.

"Are we training some more today, Bankotsu no oo-aniki?"

"For the first part of the day, I was planning on having training session. Then, having off the rest of the day," Bankotsu answered.

"Ah, soo." They entered the dining room and sat down. Suikotsu, Mukotsu and Kyoukotsu were already there. The food was on the table and everyone was eating. Suikotsu first noticed their presence.

"Feeling better today, Jakotsu?" he asked. Jakotsu had to smile seeing the good doctor side of Suikotsu today, He sat down and grabbed a bowl of rice and chopsticks.

"Yes, I am," he said and began to eat as Ginkotsu came in. It was quiet all throughout the meal. No one spoke of what happened the night before and, Jakotsu had the feeling that Bankotsu told them not too. And for that, he was grateful. He didn't need anyone asking about what happened between Renkotsu and himself.Kyoukotsu got up and went outside, soon followed by Mukotsu and Ginkotsu. Only Suikotsu, Bankotsu and himself remained. The silence stayed for a few more minutes.

"Jakotsu, I'd like to check you over for any wounds and the like, alright?" Suikotsu spoke up, breaking the silence.

"Why?"

"Well, after what happened last night and the nights before, I think it'd be best. Just to make sure you're ok," Suikotsu explained. Jakotsu nodded, and put down his bowl and chopsticks.

"Alright. When?"

"Right after breakfast." Jakotsu turned to Bankotsu.

"But...What about training...?"

"I guess you'll have the day off, then," Bankotsu said, a slight smile on his face. Suikotsu got up.

"Well, if you're done, lets go," he said. Jakotsu got up and followed him, glancing at Bankotsu once more before continuing on.

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"Well, everything seems fine. You can get dressed now," Suikotsu said once the examination was over. Jakotsu got off the wood table and put on his body armor, then his purple yutaka. He turned to Suikotsu.

"You sure everything's fine?" he asked. Suikotsu turned to him, a smile on his face, and nodded.

"You couldn't be any better if you were alive. Everything is fine. Now, I must make lunch. Training is almost over."

"Oh! Can I help," Jakotsu asked excitedly.

"No. If you make the food, everyone will riot." Jakotsu pouted.

"That's not nice! No fair, no fair, no fair, no fair!" Suikotsu laughed.

"Looks like you're in a better mood."

"Yes, I am. And I'd been in a great mood if you'd let me help."

"No."

"Waaaahhhhh!"

The Emcee: I'm kinda excited today :P