A World Away

by ripitupgenki

Years after Mu's defeated the courageous seven have settled into their new lives. What happens when Genki hides a deep secret from the rest. How will the others react? How will they deal with his world and his problems when he finally tells them? Warning: Lots of drama and dark themes. Main pairing is GxH & TxGR; there will be HxGR and GxGR as well throughout this story.

7. Understanding

AAN: More progress towards a resolution between characters this time. Next couple of chapters should solve that. I hope you are enjoying everything thus far. Also warning this chapter will contain sexual content. I am trying to keep it tactful though.

---

Understanding

The next few days flew by for Genki, he had somehow found time to slip the ring to his father that he a picked up for him, taking care to keep his mother out of the loop. As the week progressed he had taken to doing more yoga and meditation then he normally would have. Working on his stress levels, things at work had thankfully settled down after his rejection of Rika. He had admittedly been very worried about that, but after his first day back, that fear left him. He did his presentation to the upper management of the postal service who had purchased the machine software. Though it was something he hated doing he was able to do it without too much trouble, even if it stressed him out. They stated that they would be in touch for a second contract for a different machine. Genki was happy to work on miscellaneous code for a while, big projects were a nightmare to deal with at times and he needed some rest mentally from that right now. Hiro noticed he seemed off and pulled him aside, saying he needed to discuss something with him. Genki walked into the office with him and had him close the door.

"What did you need to know Hiro?"

"Well first… did we deliver on the machine well enough to get the second contract?" Genki quirked a brow, he hadn't known that any other the others were aware of that possible second contract.

"They seemed to be very happy with the end result, and said they would be in touch about the second contract soon. Though they never stated what that might be or when." Hiro seemed thoughtful,

"I would assume it's for a larger machine…"

"It's very possible though I can't say for sure that it is."

"Say… what is going on with Rika and you? Both of you are acting weird this week…" Genki sighed, Hiro watched him as he seemed to be having trouble deciding how to go about this discussion.

"Rika… has always had a crush on me. I have never encouraged her in anyway as I really don't like her that way. She jumped me last Thursday, pinned me against the wall and kissed me. When I pushed her back and told her to stop she practically threw herself at me. Offered to bed me… she apparently thought that's what I wanted." Hiro seemed to be in a state of surprise,

"I think I understand now… you're the leader so you can't avoid her but you want to make sure she understands your decision is final. I got to say you have great restraint for someone in your position."

"What are you talking about?"

"A lot of guys would use their position to bed women…"

"Hiro… I am not someone who abuses power. That's not who I am, nor will I ever become like that." Hiro chuckled,

"Kasumi offered the same thing, didn't she?" Genki seemed unsure of how he knew that.

"She did and I refused."

"I figured she might. You really are something special Genki." Genki shrugged,

"I'm just doing my job." Hiro shook his head still chuckling. He then approached the other issue he had sensed,

"Genki… if you don't mind my asking... you don' have PTSD do you?" Genki shook his head,

"No, why do you ask?"

"Because you are acting like you are on the verge of a panic attack that's why." Genki eyed the older man a moment, searching his gaze before he sighed.

"That's because I am, I have anxiety. It's usually not an issue though this past week has caused a bit of a flare up." Hiro studied the young man a moment before nodding.

"Let me know if I can help. I'll take on more work if it will keep you stable."

"Honestly it's mostly personal stuff causing the issue." Genki sighed, "but if there is anything I need help with I will ask. I'm hoping after this week things will settle down so I can relax for a bit."

"Does Desu know?"

"About my condition?"

"Yeah."

"Yes, he is aware of it. I told him about it when I hired in, it's never been an issue until now."

"I'm sorry I made it worse for you by picking a fight when you took over as leader." Genki shook his head,

"It's fine. Let's just move on and get our work done."

"You didn't want it did you?"

"The promotion? No, I didn't but I wasn't given a choice." Genki shrugged, Hiro nodded his understanding.

"Let me know if you need anything or if you are going to have an attack." Genki nodded,

"I will… thank you Hiro." They both exited the office and went back to their desks to finish what they were working on.

---

When Genki returned home he found Granity and Holly chatting quietly at the kitchen table. He smiled seeing them both there, he noticed some food on the stove and knew Holly had likely made a meal for him. She and Granity had been doing what they could to help him, though he usually did his own cooking, it was after all very relaxing for him. He placed his things down and walked over where they were, he smiled to both women as he took a seat.

"You look tired."

"I am, final presentation of the machine was today. The client was very happy, looks like we will be getting a second contract with them. For now, I have my team working on some smaller projects from the help line. It's a good change of pace, it lets the team relax between projects." Holly made note of his very professional looking clothing, though didn't ask about it. She assumed it was due to the presentation with his client today.

"I'm glad you all get to relax, you all seem to work very hard." He smiled,

"How did things go with Rika?" He had mentioned her to Granity the other day due to his anxiety of returning to work.

"Alright… I still have to interact with her as leader of the team but I have put her with two of my other members to keep her away from me. Hiro apparently figured out something was up and asked me about it today. I explained things to him and he said he would assist me in keeping her in line if anything further were to happen. I also made my boss aware of the issue though I told him that I believed it was taken care of at this point." He saw them both nod; he knew they both enjoyed hearing about his life and how things were going. They had both proven that the past few days, Holly tried to visit each morning (night for Genki) so that she could get to know him better again. Holly had risen and gotten some warm water, she set about cleaning and redressing his wound as they had spoken. When she finished Genki rose with a smile and walked over to get himself something to eat, he wasn't surprised to find something new each time he came home to a meal. This time is was some form of goulash, though he wasn't certain when Holly had learned such a recipe. Though he knew she tended to make American or European like food, it was something he had noted his first time in the monster world.

"Genki I was asked to deliver a question to you by Colt." Holly spoke as he got his food,

"Oh? And what is her question?"

"She asked if it would be possible for her to visit your world? She was really excited at the prospect and wants to learn more about it." He raised a brow at that inquiry, he hadn't thought much of her visiting until now. * Though… I can see her fascination… *

"I don't see it being an issue as long as she can behave herself."

"Tiger also would like to jump a crossed… do you think it's safe for him to try?" He sat back down at the table and looked over at her, she was entirely worried about his jump a crossed he could see it.

"At this point my theory on the portal seems to be holding… I don't see why it would vary now. However, I can't guarantee what the portal will do… form wise. It could make him into a normal dog or wolf, which we have here; or it could make him human. As far as safety goes, it shouldn't hurt him even if it changes his body on the way a crossed." He smiled, "As long as he is prepared to have to try and walk on two legs then I would say he will be fine." Granity chuckled at that thought of him trying to do so and failing.

"So you believe it will choose human?"

"I think it will yes, we are the only sentient species in this world. It's my theory that it would pick that due to his intelligence." Granity then started laughing making Holly share a glance of confusion with him,

"Sorry… the image of Suezo trying to hop around instead of walk in human form just popped into my head." Genki smiled as Holly giggled thinking about such a thing.

"I'm sure he would have a very difficult transition." He went about eating his meal as the girls continued to giggle.

"Speaking of Suezo… which day did you want to try talking to him Genki?" Genki seemed to be thinking a moment.

"Saturday would work I guess… It'll give me time to get things done on Sunday." He saw Holly nod,

"I'll make sure he knows… I'm assuming you will pop over in the evening?" He nodded as he ate,

"It's my hope that it shouldn't take more than a couple of hours to deal with him… though you never know with him."

"He can be a handful yes…"

"Holly, have you ever discussed this topic at all with him?" He asked as he continued his meal, he wanted a rough understanding before they spoke.

"Sort of… I have told him my feelings are more akin to family for him and that I wouldn't feel comfortable having sex with what in my mind is my brother. It never seemed to deter him though…" Genki was silent a moment as he thought, it was Granity who asked an unexpected question.

"Did you tell him you physically can't do that with him?" Genki glanced to her in confusion as Holly shook her head.

"We never spoke about the physical side of things no…"

"It might have helped."

"Perhaps you are right."

"I'm going to assume... he would cause physical harm attempting to have sex with you then?" Genki gave Holly a look that told her he was defiantly out of his depth of knowledge on such things. She nodded,

"Yes… it's not possible for us to … mate without physical injury…" Genki shook his head,

"Would have defiantly helped to mention that I think…" Granity decided to fill Genki in since Holly seemed reluctant to discuss it.

"Genki… I assume you don't know what his cock looks like by your question."

"Haven't a clue what it's like or where it is… I assumed it must be internal like a dragon since I have never seen it." Holly had turned colors by now and was silent, Granity just smiled in amusement as Genki waited for her to continue.

"I figured as much. Yes, it is internal, it's not a size issue like a dragon though it's the shape. It's a hook shape, it's actually in the middle of his tail, just below the bend point." Genki nodded his understanding,

"I can see that shape being not only painful but dangerous." Genki now remembered a time where Golem stepped on him making him scream like a banshee. * well now I know why he was screaming like a girl… * Genki sweat dropped at the memory. He then glanced to Holly,

"I'm assuming he has shown off to you or was that in one of those breeder books?"

"Both… unfortunately. I never wanted to see it but he was proud of his first erection." Genki and Granity sweat dropped at that, sharing a look of 'seriously?!' before returning to Holly who was mildly embarrassed. "He was so happy to be an adult… at the time I wasn't sure what to do with him."

"Did it continue?"

"Yes… until I told him I didn't want to see that. He told me he could please me… I told him no and left it at that. I suppose in retrospect I should have told him why."

"Right now he believes it's because he's a Suezo… He feels betrayed… You have to explain things to him. Holly does he know what a human vagina looks like internally? Or has he only seen the outside?" Holly was scarlet at this point making him raise a brow * seriously Holly you need to get over this stuff… no wonder he never learned anything from you. *

"As far as I know he only knows what the outside looks like… I have never seen him with any anatomy books." She managed to answer the question though deeply embarrassed by it. Genki heard Granity sigh, he figured she saw the same issue he was seeing.

"Granity question for you since I'm not familiar with monster anatomy. Are pixies able to adapt to their male partners when it comes to mating?" He glanced to her as she looked mildly surprised by the question. Genki noticed Holly was now hiding her face in her hands but chose to ignore her for now. Granity nodded,

"Yes we can adapt to any male. It wouldn't cause any issue for me to breed with a Suezo." He nodded,

"I thought as much, but I wanted to be certain. The main issue is since you look just like a human female from the outside he is assuming a human can adapt just like a pixie can. He has no idea that a human female would be in a lot of pain and or suffer physical damage from such a union." He sighed, "It seems an anatomy lesson is in order to fix this issue." He noticed Granity was soothing rubbing Holly's back now,

"You alright Holly?" Granity seemed concerned though Genki thought Holly really needed a push to get her over such things.

"Yeah… sorry… that got way too… in-depth all the sudden." Genki sighed,

"Holly two things, One I need you to bring me a breeder book on Suezos. I'm going to need the background knowledge on them if I'm going to get him to understand things. And two, I would recommend that before our discussion happens that you spend some time alone with Granity. If you can't discuss this without locking up due to embarrassment then we won't make much progress. Get yourself relaxed beforehand please." She stared at him unsure of what to think for a moment. * does he know? Did she tell him or did he figure it out? * Granity looked just as shocked so she decided it wasn't Granity that had told him.

"Genki… how did you… know that I'm…" She was having trouble finishing that but he did it for her.

"That you're aroused? Simple after you are with Granity you can speak freely about such things without turning red. It's obvious that you have some pent-up sexual energy that you need to release. You really need to stop suppressing it." He smiled gently to her as he stood to place his dish in the sink. Holly buried her face in Granity's shoulder as she dealt with things. Granity whispering in her ear,

"See I told you he would accept you." Genki heard that and nearly snorted in amusement but managed to hold it back. * She seriously thought I couldn't accept her high sex drive? After all the BDSM she heard about from me? * He shook his head in disbelief * What are they teaching in that world for sex ed? Well if its like our old school world, they are shaming them into not being active at all. Though I never thought they would do that in her world, I never saw any indication of it anyway. Perhaps I need to talk to her father for a bit after I speak to Suezo. * After Holly finally recovered she looked over to find Genki placing some tea before her. He sat down after giving Granity her cup.

"Genki… you are very observant… I never realized how observant until now."

"I do try to pay attention. It's not like you don't do the same thing to me." She nodded as she sipped her tea, he knew it would help her calm down.

"You don't mind that I have a high sex drive?"

"No, why would I?" He chuckled, "After everything you heard about the whole BDSM thing, why would you ever think I would be bothered by something as mundane as a high sex drive?" Holly thought a moment about that. * Why did I think he couldn't accept that… come to think of it he has done a lot weirder things sexually than I ever have… *

"I… don't know… I guess I just thought… you were the same as some of the others…" He looked concerned now,

"What are you talking about?" She seemed to need a moment, Granity placed a hand on her shoulder for support.

"I was told only whores have high sex drives… when I was young… I was caught masturbating once… I was punished for it…" Genki was upset now, * what the hell?! *

"Who told you that and punished you?"

"A woman in my village who was like a mother to me… after mine passed." it was only after she answered that she looked up and was startled by the look in Genki's eyes. * Why is he so upset? * He seemed to need a minute making Granity look a bit concerned.

"That woman was completely out of her mind for EVER saying that or doing that to you. I hope she was not a mother herself. Both sex and masturbation are completely normal and natural. Science has proven over the years that it is healthy to masturbate as it releases tension and stress. This is especially true when we are going through puberty." He seemed to grumble a bit after his statement as he returned to sip his tea. He was furious with that woman, * No wonder she feels shame and suppresses everything. Stupid bitch, she was probably jealous or a religious prude! I really hate that behavior. * Granity knew well enough by now that he hated when people forced others to do what they believed on a personal level. She had spoken to him more than once on the subject over the past few days.

"I take it you hate that kind of…"

"Indoctrination? Yes, nothing pisses me off more than stupidity like that. I may hate the fact that my sister sleeps around but not because she is being sexually active. What I hate is the fact that she uses her looks and her body to goad others into doing her bidding. She only sleeps with them for what they can give her not because she wants sex. That is my cut off point, I don't like liars or those who manipulate others for their own gain. She's also very reckless… there are much worse consequences for sleeping around the way she does than just being labeled a whore." He seemed to need a moment so Granity gave it to him, Holly seemed shocked by his rage over the whole matter.

"Genki… are you saying that you wouldn't care if she slept around if she was careful and wasn't trying to get things in return?" Holly seemed uncertain of his opinion,

"That is exactly what I am saying. I really don't care who she sleeps with as long as it's not for manipulation purposes. Believe me she has always had an issue with manipulating others, ever since we were kids she has done that. And that was long before she knew anything about using her body to get what she wanted." He shook his head,

"So, she has done it to family as well then?"

"All the time, always trying to get favors or stuff, always trying to bribe people. She really has no morals when it comes to that." Both women looked completely uncertain of how to react to his sisters habits,

"Does she have a disorder?"

"Probably though she has never been tested. In fact, she refuses to be tested. Which makes me think she knows she has something wrong with her and won't try to fix it. It will catch up with her eventually, it's only a matter of time." Granity decided to change the subject as both she and Holly at a loss for what to say. She wasn't sure how Genki dealt with these issues so easily but then he had grown up having to deal with them so perhaps I was just that he was used to them.

"Anyway, Genki have you made any progress on your chakra blocks? You said you were working on your root chakra yesterday."

"Some yes, though not as much as I had hoped. I was able to get some release on that chakra though. Still a bit of work to do before I'm ready to move to the next one."

"I'm glad you got something to release. You seem calmer the past couple of days."

"That's because I am. I feel better now that a few big stressors are out of the way. I know I still have things I have to do but most of the week should be fairly relaxed for me." Granity smiled hearing this, he defiantly needed some time to relax. Genki heard his phone go off, looking down at his watch he looked confused, "Restricted… not many numbers are restricted…" He rose and walked to his phone answering it.

["Hello?"]

["Hi this is the Edogawa Police station. I have a call for a mister Sakura, Genki from a miss Sakura, Rei. Will you accept the call?"] Genki sighed, pinching the bridge of his nose as he shook his head.

["Yes, I'll accept it."]

["Alright, I'm connecting you now."] Genki heard the call connecting and ringing, soon his sister picked up.

["Genki?"]

"I'm here what do you need?" He spoke in English throwing her off. He had placed the call on speaker phone so Holly and Granity could hear it.

"Why are you talking to me in English?"

"Because I have company over. Now what do you need?"

"I need some help… I know you won't believe me but I they hauled me in for something I didn't do." He sighed,

"What are the charges?"

"Murder…" His eyes widened at that, "And some drug charges."

"I'm not even discussing the drug stuff. You and I both know you did that." He sighed, "What do you remember happening?"

"How'd you know I was high?" She seemed unsure of how he had known about her drug usage.

"I'm not stupid Rei. Now answer the question."

"Well… that last thing I remember after I got high was banging some dude. When I woke up some other guy was dead… I was covered in blood from being on the floor nearby… No sign of the guy I was with though." Holly saw Genki roll his eyes,

"Do you know the guy's name you were fucking?"

"No… he was just some guy I met for drugs…" This made Genki's jaw tighten, he sighed again.

"Did you recognize the dead guy at all?"

"Never seen him before…" Genki seemed to be thinking for a moment,

"Do you know what killed the other guy?"

"Stabbing… the blade was left at the crime scene."

"You didn't touch it did you?"

"No, I'm not that stupid."

"Anything else?"

"Well… I'm covered in bruises… not sure what happened though. I don't remember anything."

"What were you on?"

"Heroin..."

Genki seemed uncertain what he could really do, then he got an idea.

"Alright, I can't help you myself as this is out of my expertise but I know a friend who can; Hei, Kenshin. He's a lawyer and a very good one at that. We can get the murder charge dropped easily enough, they don't really have anything on you from the sounds of it. BUT you must be completely honest with him so that he can do his job, do I make myself clear?"

"Yeah… I understand."

"If you want a lighter sentence on the drug stuff then roll on your supplier. Generally, they would rather go after the supplier than the user. You will still get some jail time for it though, there is no way around that."

"And get myself killed by the Yakuza? Are you mad?"

"It's up to you, but I highly doubt your supplier is connected to the Yakuza. They generally don't deal in small time drug operations. I'm sure Kenshin will agree with me is you ask him. He's been in criminal law for years."

"Alright, I'll consider it."

"Where are you being held?"

"The precinct near Edogawa station."

"Alright I will call Kenshin and have him handle your case. Behave yourself please, we don't need any more charges while you are in jail."

"Oh, like I'm going to try to bribe the police… seriously…"

"I am more worried about you mouthing off or getting into fights with other prisoners actually."

"I won't don't worry…" she was silent a moment, "Can you tell mom? I'm not sure if she will care but…"

"She will care yes, just as I do. Yes, I will call her."

"Is she alright?"

"She will be."

"Thanks, love you brother." Genki seemed uncertain of her intentions with her declaration of love. But he returned it regardless, he wasn't heartless even if he was cautious with her. She often used love to manipulate others.

"I love you as well. I will talk with you later." He heard her hang up and the officer get back on the line.

["Were you sending a lawyer?"]

["Yes, I will have him call you tomorrow. Hei, Kenshin from Shibuya district."]

["We will be expecting his call. Thank you and good night."] Granity sat their amazed at how fluently he shifted between the two languages. She never realized how easy it was for him. He could see both women we worried and uncertain of what to say.

"It seems her nonsense finally caught up with her."

"You don't seem worried or surprised." Granity probed,

"I'm not. I knew it would happen eventually. I will hire her a lawyer for the murder charges but she will still go to jail regardless. Might do her some good actually." He shrugged, he took his seat again. "I'm sure Mom and dad will be annoyed. I will wait to call them, I don't want to ruin their 25th anniversary, they have been looking forward to this for too long."

"So, you think she needs some time behind bars?" Granity looked uncertain,

"It's the only way she will learn I think. She is too stubborn for anything else."

"This won't stress you out will it?"

"No, I'm not going to get involved directly with this nonsense. I'm only going to hire someone for her, that's all." He shrugged, he sipped his tea as he waited to see how they handled his indifference,

"Why didn't she call your parents?"

"She had only one call… there was a very good chance they would not have answered her. It's not her first time in jail, usually it was petty crimes. They stopped answering, I'm the only one who will answer even when I don't want to. She knows that, she also knows that my parents wouldn't be likely to assist her in anyway. Though this might be the one exception, it was still a safer bet for her to call me."

"I think I understand… you hate what she does… but you still love her." Holly spoke now, giving him an earnest look.

"Exactly Holly."

"Does she always have sex with guys she doesn't know?"

"She tends to yes… to get drugs or other stuff. Names aren't important when you are after stuff apparently. Would have been helpful if she had a name, as it was probably the guy she had sex with that killed the other dude. There is no way with as high she was that she could managed it, plus if she has bruising it means someone got rough with her. Whether that was from a fight or sex, who knows."

"Could she have been raped?" Granity asked making him look over at her,

"It's possible… though it's hard to tell considering her state at the time. I will mention it to Kenshin, they can have a someone examine her and see if there are signs of a rape. Or even another guy having sex with her. She probably won't remember it either way."

"She seems reckless" Granity comment at length,

"She has always been that way. I'm actually surprised her luck has held out this long."

"Hopefully she will learn from this." Holly stated hoping to put him at ease, sure he said he wouldn't be involved but it was stressing him to a degree.

"We can only hope." He finished his tea then noticed how late it was. * I really need to meditate before bed… * "Holly can you bring me the breeder book I need in the next couple of days?" He saw her nod,

"I'll bring it tomorrow." He smiled,

"Thanks, I'll have to find an anatomy book so I can teach him. This will likely be a difficult lesson for him." She nodded,

"I understand… I'm sorry… I should have taught him back when he was younger… I just…"

"I know… you felt uncomfortable especially after what happened to you. It's alright, we will take care of it now. Just promise me you won't run from this anymore."

"I promise Genki. I want this to be resolved… I'm done running from things." He smiled and nodded,

"Are you stay with Granity for a while?"

"If you don't mind?" He saw her blush,

"Not at all. I need to meditate anyway." He saw the ladies nod, "Granity can send you back when you wish to leave. I will head to bed after I finish my meditation."

"Genki I need to talk with you in the morning about something." Granity stated as she rose from her chair.

"I'll make time for a chat it the morning then." He saw the ladies head to the basement as he walked upstairs. He knew Holly needed some time alone with Granity after such a discussion. It was obvious she had a lot of pent up sexual frustration at this point. * I wonder if Granity can even get her to release it all? I can only hope she can release enough of it before we talk to Suezo that she can actually hold a decent conversation. * Genki headed to his room to change out of his tight work clothes, once he was in his loose fitting shorts he went to his yoga room to meditate.

---

Downstairs the girls were just getting into things, Granity was holding Holly close asking her a question she had been curious about since Holly had confessed to Genki upstairs.

"Holly… why didn't you tell me that woman punished you for masturbating?"

"I… It's a hard memory for me… I honestly only remembered it recently after our conversation."

"You blocked it out?"

"Yes…" Granity held her close,

"Holly… was she abusive with that punishment?" Holly was silent a moment, considering the question. She hadn't thought about it in that sense, Granity waited knowing that this was something she may not have considered.

"Yes… very abusive… now that I look back on it. Maybe that's why her daughter ran away…"

"She was a mother?"

"Yes… though not a good one from what the rumors around the village were. Her daughter ran away from home, no one knows where she went. I hadn't thought about that till now."

"What did she do to you?" Holly seemed to stiffen at this question, "just whisper it if you can't say it out loud." Holly complied whispering it into Granity's ear. Granity's eyes widened, soon she was looking very concerned. Holly buried her face in Granity's chest after the fact, Granity held her a she sobbed. * How dare that woman abuse her like that! She was getting off on it I bet. No wonder Holly understood what I went through… * "Holly… she was abusing you… it never should have happened. I hope this wasn't a routine thing."

"No… she only did it that one time. After that I never saw her again. She and her husband left to find their daughter…"

"So, they were gone when Mu's troops attacked?"

"No, they had returned a few days prior to the attack. They never found their daughter."

"Sounds like she didn't want to be found." Holly nodded, Granity was relieved the woman was dead. * Bitch deserved that… for what she did to her. No wonder her daughter left. * "Holly did you masturbate after she left the village?"

"Yes… I couldn't help it… I found a really good hiding place that no one knew about. No one could sneak up on me either. I always carried a book with me so they would think I was reading if they did find me."

"Well I'm glad you got some relief despite what she did to you. Did you father know about the abuse?"

"No… he wasn't aware of it… neither were my grandparents. Grandmother was the one who told me to masturbate after she noticed how moody I was. She explained to me that is was natural… when I asked about the whole whore thing she laughed and said that was untrue. I guess I should have listened to her…"

"You should have told them what she had done to you…"

"I know… but I was ashamed of it…"

"Holly… the only one who should have been ashamed was that woman." Holly nodded, she relaxed under her lover's touch.

"Granity… I want to be free from this… I don't want to keep feeling shame for enjoying sex."

"Then let Genki and I help you. We both love you and we both want you to be free of this Holly." She nodded,

"I will Granity… do you think… Genki will want to be with me? I mean he's been hurt really bad by me… I felt his pain… it was nearly unbearable… in fact it was far worse than I ever imagined."

"Holly, he still loves you. He does want to be with you yes, it will just take time for him to open up again. Being open with him is helping him, the more you are honest and open with him the more he will relax with you." She felt Holly nod, she then smiled as her hands wandered over Holly's body making the young woman moan softly.

"Granity… will you make love to me?" Her voice was soft an embarrassed,

"Gladly. Will you let me do a few new things to you this time?"

"Like what?" Holly was curious what she wanted to do, her body shivered as Granity whispered.

"I'd like to do oral sex tonight. Will you let me?" she felt Holly's heart rate pick up after she asked that question. Holly was silent a moment before replying softly,

"Yes… just… ease me into it please." Granity chuckled as she kissed Holly's neck causing another shiver to run through her lover's body.

"I will don't worry, I plan on pleasuring you for while tonight." Granity smirked as Holly moaned under her touch again, she guided Holly to the bed ready to please the young woman in every way.

---

By the end of the week Genki had managed to relax himself enough to deal with Suezo. He had gotten Kenshin to deal with his sister, told his parents about the fiasco after their anniversary was over, spoken with the police about his brother's case, bought an anatomy book for Suezo, and read through the breeder book Holly had brought him. While he was busy doing all these things Granity was working with Holly to get her to unwind and relax. Genki was currently driving home from work, Holly's blade tucked in a bag beside him. He had received it from Akame that afternoon when they met up for lunch. Akame had probed him, trying to see if he was going to date Holly but hadn't expected to get reamed by him for disclosing information she shouldn't have. He told her it was not her concern whether they dated or not, refusing to address the topic again. He sighed, * I know she means well… I just didn't want Holly to know that right then. This is something we have to take on slowly… neither of us really trust each other anymore. I know Holly was hiding her pain but once I felt it… it's hard to imagine why she wouldn't just admit she was wrong sooner. Perhaps I'm missing something still. * As he pulled in the driveway he wondered if Granity would be open to do anything tonight, yes he would need to let Holly have her before they met up with Suezo but he really needed some company. * I hope she is willing to keep me company tonight… * He walked in the house to find it quiet, he looked around confused. Nothing had been made for dinner and the two women were no where to be found. * Did something happen or are they downstairs? * He shrugged and put his stuff away before investigating. He wandered downstairs and saw the door was closed to 'their room', the light was off and he didn't hear anything coming from there. *Ah… they probably fell asleep after the fact. Well I guess I'll be alone again tonight. * He sighed slightly disappointed but walked back upstairs. Soon he began to make his dinner, making some fried rice out of left overs. After eating he decided to play a game before bed, he wasn't sure why but he felt very emotional all the sudden. Shrugging it off he walked into the living room and turned on his TV, flipping it to the correct mode he turn on the console and started up a bright and cheerful game. * Maybe this can improve my mood… * He played his game a for a couple of hours before he finally decided he should head to bed, he would meditate before he slept. Looking at his arm he grimaced, * I guess I'll have to try and do this myself… I really don't want to disturb them. * Genki walked into the kitchen and grabbed everything he needed. Carefully he unwrapped his arm, it was still oozing and the bandage was stuck once again. Carefully he worked it loose with the use of some warm water. Once done he forced himself to clean it despite the pain he felt, after he finished he patted it dry. He took a break for a moment to deal with his pain. * I seriously doubt this will heal up in the next week… three weeks my ass more like six weeks at this rate. I'll have to call my doctor I guess and get another ointment prescription. This won't last past the three week mark. * he sighed heavily as he began to carefully apply the salve, it was hard to apply the salve evenly as he couldn't see what he was doing. Wrapping it would prove to be extremely hard but he some how managed to do it nonetheless. It didn't look or feel as good as when Holly did it but it was clean, that was all that really mattered. Rising he put away his medical supplies, he wrote the girls a note letting them know he had gone to bed. He would give Holly her dagger tomorrow, for now he needed rest. Making sure the door was locked, he turned the lights out and walked upstairs. He would meditate briefly while in his bed before he rested, still he couldn't shake the feeling of utter loneliness. * Damn… why do I feel this way all the sudden? It's not been an issue all week. Why now? * Genki changed into his night wear and got into bed. Sitting up with his legs crossed he began to do his breathing exercises, trying to let his emotions and stress go. Eventually he began to meditate, as he did he worked through his loneliness letting it go. As his emotions flowed, tears ran down his cheeks but this was the only sign of his emotions while he meditated. When he finished he felt slightly better but still couldn't shake the need to be with someone. Still he forced himself to sleep, knowing he would need the rest if he was going to deal with Suezo.

---

When Granity finally woke she realized it was really late, nudging Holly awake she rose to put her bikini top and bottom back on. Holly looked confused a moment before she seemed to realize how late it was.

"Did we really sleep for 5 hours?"

"Yeah we did, Genki probably already went to bed. I'll go check though." Holly looked a little upset now.

"I should have been up, his wound needed to be tended…" Granity turned to her,

"He'll be alright, let me go see if he's still up. Get dressed." Holly did so while Granity walked upstairs. Finding the house dark, she turned the light on. Some pans on the stove told her he had already made a meal for himself. She found his note confirming this and that he went to bed. Granity sighed, * why do I feel like I need to go to his side right now? I feel like something is wrong… * Holly walked upstairs to see Granity with note in hand.

"He went to bed, didn't he?"

"Yes, he made some food as well. Apparently, we were either dead to the world or he was very quiet. He changed his own bandage somehow. I saw a discarded one in the trash, looks really bad still." Holly looked extremely worried,

"He needed help…"

"Holly… please don't feel bad. Both of us were out cold. He could have woken us if he wanted, he choose not to."

"Granity… am I the only one that feels something is wrong?" Granity looked startled then shook her head.

"No, I feel it too… I'm going to check on him. If I'm not back down in ten minutes then come upstairs." Holly nodded, she walked over to make some tea as Granity ventured upstairs.

---

Granity made her way upstairs to his room, she heard him moaning in what seemed to be pain as she approached the door which was ajar. Opening it she found he was breathing hard, struggling in his sleep from what seemed to be a nightmare. Granity went to his side immediately to wake him. "Genki wake up! Come on wake up!" she shook him, after several attempts his eyes flew open, he grabbed her unsure of what was happening. She had expected this and didn't resist him, instead she spoke softly. "Genki it's alright, it was just a bad dream." Genki released her arm, he seemed shaken his eyes showing fear though she wasn't sure what he had seen. His body shook slightly as he dealt with things, Granity guided him into her arms just holding him. Eventually he broke down, tears falling as he held onto her. Granity just held him whispering over and over that he was safe and that it was alright. *What did he see? Why did both Holly and I know he was having a nightmare? Now I feel bad for not being there for him when he got home. We really messed up… we are supposed to be helping him. Yet… we have been focused on each other most of this week. * she sighed, she would discuss this with Holly later but for now she just held him. Holly ventured up after Granity hadn't returned, she saw him clinging to Granity as he sobbed. Holly's eyes met her lovers and she could tell something was wrong, Holly came over and gently rubbed his back, hoping to comfort him. It took another five minutes before he calmed down, his eyes still holding a hollow yet fearful look to them. Holly noticed the look in his eyes, she had never seen him like this before. After a few more minutes Granity spoke softly to him, "Genki are you alright now?" it took him a moment to answer, he shook his head. "What did you see? You were having a nightmare when I came up to check on you." instead of answering he rested his head on her shoulder. Holly looked extremely worried now, the way he was reacting was not normal even for someone having a nightmare. * Did he take his medication or something? * Finally, he responded to her question in an unexpected way.

"It wasn't just a nightmare…" Holly and Granity shared a look of confusion,

"Then what was it?" He pulled back shaking his head,

"I can't… not right now…" Holly placed her hand on his back and gently projected some calm into him, his fear was intense but it was when she connected with him that she felt his loneliness and what seemed to be hopelessness. It confused her but then she wasn't sure what he had seen. He felt her trying to help him, at first, he wanted to reject it but he forced himself to accept the help. Granity realized what her lover was doing. * He can't talk about it while he's this upset so she is trying to relax him. Still what did he mean it wasn't just a nightmare? * When he finally relaxed, Holly smiled to him and spoke softly.

"Do you feel better?"

"Yes, thank you…"

"Genki can you tell us what happened?" she gently probed still projecting to him. He seemed guarded and uncertain of what to do. * I have never discussed this with anyone… yet when I told my brother of it, he seemed alright with it. Should I tell them? I'm still uncertain of Holly… but… her pain was real… and so is her love… I felt it while we connected. Yet… I fear this so much… * he was shaking again making Granity pull him close once more.

"Just relax. If you can't talk right now it's alright. We just want to help Genki, but if it's too much for you we both understand." After a few more minutes he sighed,

"I've never discussed this with anyone…" his words caught both women off guard.

"Discussed what Genki?" Holly was soothing stroking his back again as Granity held him gently. He sighed heavily finally giving in.

"For a very long time I have… been having visions periodically. As far as I can tell they are basically someone's memories that I'm forced to live through. Nearly all of them are… bad memories. This one was no different." Both women exchanged a look of surprise, neither expecting that answer.

"What did you see that scared you so much?" Holly spoke gently, while Granity continued to hold him. She would let Holly coax him into talking, she was far better with delicate things.

"What I saw or should I say lived through was my brother's rape…" his voice was soft but they heard him. They both shared a looked of both shock and worry.

"Genki… will you be alright?" Granity asked softly,

"In time… I need time to process this. I probably won't be sleeping anymore tonight…" He sighed and leaned against Granity again, she held him close letting him relax. She felt his body shake slightly, it was obvious he was still upset. "I understand perfectly why my brother tried to take his own life… That was far more... brutal then even I imagined." Holly looked extremely concerned now, she spoke softly her voice filled with concern.

"Can you release it or do you need help?" He seemed to hesitate, he looked deep in thought for a bit before answering.

"I'm not sure… the visions… are different then my own experiences… they are far more powerful emotionally speaking. It's like they are being amplified somehow. It's not as simple as releasing it Holly." Granity decided to probe a little now,

"Can you process what you saw on your own?"

"I can… it will take time. This isn't the first… vision like this I have dealt with." She shared a look of deep concern with Holly now. * his ability is making his condition worse… I am really surprised he hasn't tried to kill himself again… *

"How long have you been having these visions?"

"Since I was thirteen… They are sporadic… I have no control over when they happen or if they do."

"Would it help if I stayed with you tonight?" Granity asked gently,

"I doubt I can sleep after living through that memory… even with someone next to me."

"You need rest Genki…"

"This won't be my first all-niter Granity… don't worry about it so much…" She sighed as Holly decided to try something different. She knew he was being stubborn and needed some time to unwind before he could sleep again.

"Why don't we have some tea down stairs and see if we can take your mind off of it for a while. I'm sure Granity can give you a massage to help you relax." He nodded, slowly he let go of Granity and move to stand.

---

Granity made sure he was alright and then three went back down stairs. Granity took him to the living room, having him sit next to her on the couch while Holly fetched the tea. Genki leaned against her as they waited for Holly, Granity decided to wrap an arm around him hoping to provide comfort. He seemed to need her touch right now and she wouldn't deny him. * Damn… I really should have been up when he got home… *

"How did work go? You said your boss had an announcement for everyone this morning, right?" Holly brought the tea in as she asked this. She smiled to Granity, appreciating that her lover was trying to distract him for his traumatic vision. He accepted his tea from Holly before answering the question.

"Well apparently since we have been getting a lot of large jobs that pay well lately, he is giving us a week off work so we can go to some of the festivals. He wants us to be refreshed and ready to work on the new projects that come up." Granity looked intrigued,

"Is that normal?"

"Some businesses do this practice but not all; in fact, this is new for us. Our business has grown over the past year. We are pulling in larger contracts then we ever have before, which is why he wants to thank us. Plus, I think he can tell all of us are experiencing burn out now, we need time to relax in between large projects other with the projects with suffer as a result."

"So, when does your week off start?"

"I will need to work another week before I get my week off. We have a few things to push out the door before we can relax for a bit. We will likely get set up for when we come back before we take off. I know a lot of my coworkers with definitely be headed to some of the festivals. I usually try to make one each year, not sure which one I'll attend this year though." Genki sipped his tea as he tried to calm himself down, he knew he wouldn't be able to sleep tonight, even with help. * Well I better find something productive to do… I don't want to dwell on this all night after all. Though knowing Granity she will press the issue of my getting some rest, or at least attempting to. * Holly decided to bring up a new topic with Genki, she knew they would have to keep him distracted for a bit if there was any hope of him getting sleep tonight. Though embarrassed to even bring it up she decided it was best to get it out there before they spoke to Suezo.

"Genki… something occurred to me that will likely come up when we talk to Suezo."

"Oh?" he glanced over at her, she could see he was intrigued.

"Well… if Suezo finds out that his body will be changed coming through the portal… he will likely try to use that as an excuse to have sex with me…" Genki looked concerned and thoughtful both, * She is right… he would try that, he is desperate to make love to her… *

"Then we will have to drive home the fact that he is a brother to you. Holly was there any other sisterly figure in his life growing up?"

"Yes, Pink Eye looked after both of us."

"Was he ever perverted towards her?" Holly seemed to be thinking now, * He was definitely perverted around her… but towards her… I don't remember him ever doing that. *

"Not that I can remember. Anytime he was perverted around her she was always quick to scold him."

"Then we can use that as an example. If he truly felt that she was a sister to him, then he should find the idea of sex with her repulsive. Just as you do with him as your brother." He smiled gently to her as she nodded and returned the smile. Granity decided that since he had finished his tea that she would give him a massage. Gently she moved into position and began to work his shoulders. She could tell by his reaction that he was really sensitive again, she spoke softly to him.

"Just try and relax, I'll be gentle though I can't do this properly without being firm in my touch."

"I know… thank you…" He seemed to relax under her touch, his felt very good to him and he was once again holding back moans. Holly left briefly to make some more tea for them, while she was gone Granity whispered into his ear.

"Don't hold your feelings back, there's no need. Just let everything go Genki." He heard her and knew what she was talking about. He was hesitant to moan in front of Holly. "You accepted her… let her accept you." He heard her whisper, he understood its meaning. * I guess I should trust her… she knows Holly well enough to know that she will be OK with this. Holly knows I'm sensitive… I can only hope it won't bother her too much. * When Granity worked his lower back, he couldn't resist any longer. She knew this was where he felt the greatest release, where all his tension was stored. A moan escaped his lips as Holly walked back in the room. She glanced over in confusion as Granity just smirked at her. She could see Genki was experiencing pleasure from the massage somehow. She heard a few more soft moans of pleasure escape him as she sat the tea pot down on the table. Holly took a seat as Granity finished up with Genki. She heard a few pops from his spine and guess that he had been very stressed out earlier today. She poured the tea for them then took a sip of her own while she waited. * I didn't realize his sensitivity made things feel good as well… apparently, I've never triggered that but then I wasn't giving a massage at the time. I hope he can get some sleep before we speak to Suezo… still… witnessing an event like that first hand… it's got to be rough on him. I wonder if there is anything I can do to help him process that or if he has to do so on his own? * When Granity finished Holly noticed a faint blush on Genki's cheeks as he relaxed against the couch again. He glanced to Granity who smirked at him making his blush worse briefly,

"Thanks… I feel much better."

"I wasn't expecting so many pops tonight. You stressed yourself out again, didn't you?"

"It was a trying week to get everything handled… besides my vertebra pop a lot anyway." He took a sip of his tea trying to ignore the whole moaning in pleasure aspect of it. Granity chuckled at him while shaking her head. Holly decided to see if she could understand things better now,

"Is that normal to have vertebra do that? Or did you injure them?" Her voice soft as she gently probed him. He glanced over at her noticing she seemed alright with what had just happened.

"It's normal, though mine move more than most due to injuries. It generally doesn't hurt when they pop, they just move slightly. The popping noise is actually coming from air pockets near the discs that cushion the spine. So, it's just air and fluid moving around." Holly nodded her understanding, she seemed to thoughtful for a moment.

"So, the injuries make them more likely to move?"

"Yes, they do. Though I have a few that don't like to move as well. Those discs are damaged which is why they resist movement. The middle of my back near the curve has some damaged discs."

"Is that why you carry all your stress there?" Granity asked, she had been just listening as Holly probed him. He nodded,

"It's one of the reasons yes. The discs in that area have actually deteriorated to some degree. That area doesn't just experience stress, it can get down right painful sometimes. My job also tends to put a lot of stress on that area since I'm sitting at a desk all day. We did get new desks that are convertible so we can raise the height and stand for a while but that still doesn't always help. I often go for walks when I get stuck on a problem, it helps release that stress so I can refocus on my work." Holly looked slightly worried but he knew she was always worried when it came to his injuries.

"Does it cause you a lot of pain?"

"Not a ton, it's pretty sporadic on when it acts up actually. It's just when it decides to act up it can get pretty bad."

"You should rest then."

"Resting makes it worse actually. The only way to relieve it is through working the area either with exercises or a massage. Though I have tried a couple of medical procedures they never seemed to have any lasting effects."

"What were those?" Granity asked wondering if she could help him.

"Acupressure and acupuncture. They are both well known in my country for relieving pain, though they aren't for the faint of heart." he chuckled, as Granity gave him a look of intrigue.

"What do you mean?" Holly probed, she seemed every interested in learning new things.

"Acupressure is basically using pressure points within the body to relieve stress. It can be… painful when they first start depending on how bad things are. In my case it was bad enough that my vision dimmed during it, though it did help it was far too… painful for me to want to try that again. Acupuncture is similar though it uses special needles that are inserted to relieve tension. A lot of people get very nervous about getting those put into them around their spine. It seemed to help some for me but not enough for me to continue using it." Both women shared a look of uncertainty,

"Are they both safe to use?"

"They are yes, and work very well for certain problems but not for everything. In my case the damage responds better to stimulation through massage therapy and exercise."

"You don't get massages, do you?"

"I haven't done so in a while Granity… due to complications with my anxiety." Holly decided to use the opening to probe a bit more.

"You mean because of your sensitivity?"

"Yes… it makes things difficult…"

"I would assume it makes some things feel extremely good and others really bad?" He could see what she was angling towards.

"Yes, release of stress feels incredibly good leading to some… embarrassing moments for me. I haven't felt like going after getting laughed at the last time." He averted his gaze while blushing, deciding that his tea needed his focus. Holly's gaze softened as she realized that he had little control over such things. Gently she rested her hand on his arm causing his gaze to meet hers again.

"It's alright, I'm glad that at least something still feels good to you… I was afraid everything became painful while you were that sensitive." She smiled gently to him, "you don't have to worry about me judging you for that Genki." She could see his surprise, he sighed then nodded.

"Thank you… I was a bit worried…"

"Why?" He sighed,

"I know you think I'm weird after all the BDSM stuff among other things. I didn't want to add to that weirdness with my moaning…" She looked confused, * is he… insecure? That doesn't seem right… Unless… *

"Genki I thought you told Thomas that you don't care what others think of you?" He sighed again as he mulled over how to explain.

"Normally I don't care… this is a bit different." He paused a moment before continuing, "In this case… I didn't want to overload you with new things all at once. I mean… I was never planning on tell you everything all at the same time. I wanted to give you time to understand each thing before moving to the next. It didn't work out the way I had planned but that doesn't mean that I still didn't need to pace things out a bit." He glanced her way; still seeing confusion on her eyes he spoke once more, "Sometimes overwhelming someone can cause misunderstanding that wouldn't happen normally. I was trying to avoid such misunderstandings between us." It took a moment before he saw her smile, she reached out and gentle placed her hand on his cheek catching him off guard.

"Genki… I know you were embarrassed it's alright. I'm not going to judge you for how you are. Yes, I am a little confused by everything but I'm not overwhelmed. You are different from how I remember you but that's to be expected. We stopped talking about things, so now we both have to learn about each other once more. Don't be afraid to tell me things… you aren't going to scare me off I promise." She spoke softly to him as her thumb caressed his cheek. She could see his relief as she accepted this weird side of him. * He is only worried because he loves me… that's what he really meant to say. What I think of him matters… he's less concerned about others. * She smiled to him and gently rested her forehead against his,

"Thank you, Holly...I'm glad you are OK with everything you've learned so far."

"I like learning these things Genki, I want to know you better again." Genki let her be affectionate with him, his hand moving to her side. Granity watched them silently, she wouldn't interfere; this was too important for them. * I'm glad he's relaxing a bit, after all they need to learn to trust one another again. * After a few minutes Holly withdrew to look into his eyes, she could see he felt better even if the vision was still haunting him. She knew it would be awhile before he felt completely relaxed with her but for now this was a good start. She smiled gently to him before asking a new question,

"Genki would it be alright if we spent some time together during your week off? I'd like to learn more about your world." He seemed slightly surprised by the request but he soon smiled,

"I don't see that being an issue. What about your chores though?"

"I think I can get most of them done early and see if someone will cover for me on the ones I can't. I know my father will cook for the guys." He nodded his understanding as she gently guided him to lean against her. He did so relaxing physically as she took his hand, interlacing their fingers as she provided comfort for him. After a few more minutes Granity broached the topic of sleep again.

"Genki, you really should try to rest. Even if you don't fall asleep it would still help you to rest." Granity took his other hand as she spoke softly to him. His eyes shifted to her for a moment,

"I can try… I doubt I'll get any sleep though. This isn't something that will just… go away if I don't think about it."

"I know that… perhaps I can take your mind off of it?"

"If you are offering what I think you are I don't see that being… possible right now. I told you before that when my disorders act up I don't have any desire for such activities." * Though logically a good sexual experience could replace this bad vision it won't change how I am feeling… The only thing it might help with is the loneliness. *

"Genki… do your disorders affect your sex drive?" Holly probed gently a slight blush on her face, she knew he hadn't told her everything yet. In fact, she was betting he was still hiding some things, afraid to talk to her about them.

"Yes, they do affect it. It's hard for me to get aroused when they are acting up. If I take my medication, then that becomes impossible for me, another side effect of the meds unfortunately."

"Is it possible for you to get aroused at all when your disorders are acting up?"

"Yes… but it takes a lot to get me there." He could see Granity was plotting something,

"Would you let me try to pleasure you?" Granity asked, she was being blunt again something Genki was getting used to. He was silent a moment,

"Are you certain you are ready for such things? We only started our bond a week ago." Genki's voice was soft and challenging something Holly hadn't expected. She had thought they would be intimate by now but it seemed that was not the case. * Is he resisting or does he think that things are moving too fast? Granity and I… were lovers fairly quickly yet he seems to not desire such a relationship. * Holly hadn't realized how well Genki controlled himself until now. * Though honestly if I had witness or felt a rape I wouldn't want to have sex either. * Granity seemed surprised by his challenge but merely smirked at him,

"Genki I know what I am and am not ready for, I wouldn't have offered if this was going to bother me." He was silent again for a moment,

"I'm just concerned with the speed is all, it feels like we are moving a bit fast to me." He closed his eyes as he thought things over. * Perhaps monsters move faster at this… I really need more knowledge of such things. Still it feels wrong… she was abused and yet everything seems to lead to sex with her… is she reclaiming her sexuality from him by choosing to have sex? Is that how she is choosing to heal? * His mind tried to work through it, though it seemed counterproductive to him it seemed to be the answer. * Perhaps I should ask… I don't know how women feel about such things. Or if that is what she is doing… * It took Granity a moment to respond, she was trying to find the words to explain things to him.

"Genki I would assume you know little about monster mating habits."

"I don't know much no. It's not something I ever looked into."

"Monsters move much faster than humans, we don't have issues with mating early on in our relationships. It comes naturally for us, generally we understand that about each other. I suppose I should have made sure you understood that before asking you to do such a thing."

"I can understand that I guess… but that doesn't explain why you… suddenly want it with me now. I would have thought your prior experiences would have slowed that process down, making mating a little harder for you." She chuckled at him making him stare at her in confusion,

"Normally you'd be right… and at first I was scared of such a union. When we first started bonding and sharing gentle touches I was too afraid to mate with you. However, as our bond grew that fear faded, I trust you Genki and I want to finish our bond. You feel it already, it's strong between us now and I know that you are still a little uncertain of things. I should have realized there was a reason behind your resistance especially since you have been very sexually active in the past. I know you aren't shy when it comes to that, I should have asked what was going on." Holly noticed he seemed deep in thought again, she would let them settle this but she would provide some comfort to him. She gently rested her head against his, her hand giving his hand a reassuring squeeze. * Perhaps she is misunderstanding him, he isn't shy no but he is cautious. He said he'd have to make an exception for her… it's obvious he doesn't usually sleep with those he doesn't love. In this case the love is different, it's not what he is used to and I think it's making him hold back. He does love her and care for her but he's uncertain of it. His bond with Mocchi was platonic; this one is not. I think he's not ready to for this step due to his emotional state. * as Holly finished her thought Genki finally replied deciding to just bluntly ask Granity what she was doing,

"Granity, are you healing by reclaiming your sexuality from him by choosing to have sex?" His eyes connected with a very caught off guard pixie, he could see by the look in her eyes that he had hit the nail on the head. * So that is what she is doing… * He waited for her to tell him verbally but he knew the answer now. Holly was absolutely shocked by his question, she had never heard him so bluntly ask something like that. * Did he decided to be blunt because she always is? Moreover, is he right in his assessment? I never really thought about why she would be eager to have sex. * It took Granity a moment to recover, a small smile played upon her lips as she spoke.

"I should have known you'd figure it out. Yes, Genki that is what I am doing… I don't want this to control me anymore. I already tried to abstain from sex, avoid it in an attempt to heal. That didn't work so I'm trying this method now." Genki didn't respond right away but then finally nodded his understanding,

"I understand…" He seemed to hesitate a moment, "If you want to try to pleasure me then you can but I can't guarantee that it will work with how I feel right now." He glanced over at her to make sure she understood him, he saw her nod.

"I know you might not get aroused, that's alright. As long as I make you feel good that's all that matters. Besides you seem lonely again… I want to fix that." He sighed, he knew she had felt it through their bond. He nodded,

"I do feel lonely again yes… that you may be able to help with."

"You wanted me at your side tonight, didn't you?"

"I did but I wasn't going to disturb the two of you over that. Especially since I was feeling… extremely emotional when I arrived home. I tend to get… moody with people when I'm like that." He took a sip of his cooling tea, he knew she would fuss over his unwillingness to wake her. It wouldn't change his mind on the matter. The last thing he wanted to do is wake them up to just be snippy with them due to his emotional state.

"Do you know why you were emotional?"

"Not really… it's something that happens from time to time. I tend to be short with people when I'm like that, I don't like being that way with others so I stay off by myself till that passes."

"You don't think it could be because of your pain, do you?" He locked eyes with Granity upon hearing her question.

"I honestly don't know Granity… it could be because of anything at this point. I don't understand everything I experience but the mood did precede my vision so perhaps it was something to do with that." He shrugged,

"Has it happened before when you had a vision."

"Once yes, but I don't remember if it did with the others. The last vision was very emotional and traumatic as well. It is possible that I'm sensing it just before it occurs but I don't know for certain."

"What was the last one?" Genki could feel Holly squeeze his hand in an attempt to help him.

"I saw someone being murdered… well felt it really." He sighed, "I did some research and found out it… was very accurate. I was going to speak to the authorizes about what I witnessed but there was no need. They caught he guy responsible without my help."

"Did you know them?" Holly asked softly, he shook his head.

"No, I had never met them." Genki could see she was concerned, "If I had been able to control my ability… I was planning on helping people with it."

"Wouldn't that make things worse for you though?"

"Maybe, maybe not. If I can help someone it usually helps me as well. It's part of how I deal with things. Sure, the events are intense but if I don't know the person directly they usually don't affect me very long. I'm able to deal with them far easier if they are just strangers." The ladies shared a glance before Granity decided to try pushing him into sleep again.

"I think I understand…" She waited a moment before speaking again, "Genki we should see if you can rest, it's very late. I don't want you to be exhausted before you have to deal with a certain eye stalk. Especially since he's libel to throw out accusations as you grill him."

"I wasn't planning on grilling him, more mentoring him but I would like to know what he has been saying that has you flustered." He raised a brow, Holly sighed now making him glance her way.

"Let me re-wrap your arm and I'll tell you what he has been saying." Genki nodded and let her do so, his bandage was coming undone despite his best efforts. As she worked on his bandage she began to speak, "The other day he accused you of watching Akame and Mai be intimate, saying you get a good show. He also accused Granity of being a whore, sleeping around with just about anyone. He has been throwing insults at me as well in passing. The others seem to be upset over his accusations but aren't willing to do anything at this point." He was silent a moment before sighing,

"He's scared and he's lashing out…"

"Is that what you call that?" Granity gave him a skeptical look,

"Fear makes us do irrational things. He's not thinking clearly at this point. I will do what I can to calm him back down… just ignore his jabs for now."

"I'll try… it's hard when he's throwing things out there like my sex life with Granity though. At this point the others think he is just jealous… they don't realize it's the truth." Genki could see fear in her eyes, he knew she was too afraid to tell the others the truth.

"I will get him to stop I promise. We will solve this, I won't leave it without a resolution." Genki sighed, "Can you hang on till we talk to him? Or is the bond too far gone?" he looked very concerned,

"I'm not sure he can change… he has always wanted a physical bond with his trainer. He said it was a dream of his." Genki was silent a minute,

"You didn't answer my question, is the bond too far gone?"

"No… it can be salvaged… but I don't think he can do it." He nodded,

"Has he always had that dream? To be that close to his trainer or is it just because it's you?"

"A little of both… he lusts after me… he has since I was a teenager. But he mentioned his dream shortly after he was unlocked, stating he wanted to physically bond with a trainer."

"Did he say with a trainer or with you specifically?" Holly stopped, she suddenly realized what he was asking. Thinking back, she gasped,

"He just said with a trainer… I'm not sure why he would…"

"Holly has he ever shown interest in having a second trainer?"

"Yes… but he only said it once. After our village was gone it never came up again… neither did his dream."

"There may have been someone in your village he was considering…"

"You may be right… he refocused on me because we were the only survivors." Genki seemed to be thinking for a moment,

"There may be an easier way to solve this… it all depends on how he reacts tomorrow. We will have to see how bad things have really gotten before I can say for sure. Right now, just try to relax and make sure you are ready for what's to come. It might get ugly for a bit before we break through his walls." He saw her nod, "Pop back over beforehand so you won't feel so… embarrassed during the discussion." He saw her nod again blushing slightly at the implication, "I will try to rest but I will be awake for our discussion even if I have to binge on some coffee." Holly gave him a gentle hug before standing, he rose as well smiling.

---

He walked to where he had placed her dagger and retrieved it. He presented it to her as she got ready to return home, she looked at him in confusion at the leather wrapped item. Granity in the meantime was calling Tiger to get Holly an escort.

"What's this?"

"Akame dropped this off to me earlier. She finished it yesterday, after dealing with a forge issue earlier this week." Holly took the item and began to unwrap it. She gasped at how simple yet beautiful it looked. Her dagger was exactly the shape she wanted but the details are what surprised her. Genki had told Akame of both the phoenix and magic stone. Those two elements had been incorporated into the scabbard and hilt of the blade. A beautiful tear drop shaped, emerald green gemstone cab was embedded in the center of the hilt on each side of the blade, the pommel had a round cab to match; the scabbard also had a tear drop on each side. A golden phoenix was engraved into the ebony scabbard and blackened steel guard of the dagger, with a beautiful black and burgundy ray skin covering the handle. Holly drew the blade to see a beautiful raindrop pattern on the Damascus blade. Granity was looking very impressed from where she was, * He definitely told Akame to add those details. It's stunning, I feel a little jealous but this is his way of telling her he still loves her. * Holly's eyes shown with wonder and warmth,

"This is amazing… it's perfect. You told her to add these details, didn't you?"

"Yes, I wanted it to be special."

"This must have cost a lot Genki…"

"The cost is not an issue. This is my gift to you since I missed your birthday earlier this year." Holly's eyes widened,

"Genki, you didn't have to do this, I understood you had to work. I didn't want you to feel guilty." He shook his head,

"I should have been there regardless. I could have taken time off had I not forgotten. This is my way of making it up to you." He could see in her eyes it meant a lot to her that he was being this thoughtful, he soon found himself in another hug. He returned it, enjoying their closeness. Despite his fear and pain, he had always enjoyed her company, always liked holding her. After she pulled back she placed her new dagger down for a moment, removing his grandfather's dagger from her belt she gave it back to him. He smiled to her as he took it, he would put it back in its rightful place soon. For now, he held it as she put her new dagger in the frog on her belt. With it hung properly she smiled to him again and he nodded, he took a moment to go return his grandfather's blade to the library. When he returned he saw Granity smirking at him, he just smiled in return.

"I will be back later… I'll need to spend some time with you" She glanced to the pixie breed who nodded, "Genki… let her help you. You need it after what you saw, I know it's haunting you." He looked unsure of how she knew that,

"I will don't worry. I will see you in a little while." She nodded then smiled to him.

"Head upstairs, I'll be up after I send her home." Granity spoke softly, he could see a mischievous look in her eyes and wondered what she was thinking. He obeyed as she and Holly walked into the office.

---

Genki sighed as he sat on the bed, part of him still thought it was too early for this kind of thing but he understood this was something Granity needed. * Well she will have to be dominant for a while… till I feel she is ready for more. I only hope this will actually help her heal… I mean she was put through a lot when she was young. * he glanced at the clock and realized he'd likely have only a few hours of sleep at the most. Shrugging it off he then began to think about his own feelings, * Am I really ready for this type of relationship? It feels so… strange to be doing this… like I'm doing something wrong yet… I know what I'm doing is OK according to both Granity and Holly. Perhaps I just no longer have any desire for sex… after all that activity with Akame. I can't let that stop me from helping Granity… besides I really could use some release myself… if I can get it anyway. I seriously doubt she will arouse me without using her allure… wait I never asked about that did I? * as he mulled this over Granity walked into his room, she closed the door quietly and came over to sit next to him. She noticed his expression and knew he was deep in thought. Gently she began to touch him making him sigh softly at the contact.

"What's bothering you?"

"I was just thinking over some things for later. Though something did occur to me that I wanted to ask you."

"What is it?"

"How does a pixie's allure work? Is it something you control consciously?" He could see she hadn't expected this question, soon she smiled gently to him.

"Yes, it is something I can control. My allure basically seduces people, making them do my bidding even against their will. You could say it's a type of mind control."

"Does it arouse them though?"

"It can yes… are you thinking of having me use it? Or are you worried that I will?"

"I was thinking we could use it actually. If it would help with my arousal then we could give that a try."

"I'd rather try to do that without using my allure… I don't want to force you Genki. You didn't say it but I get the impression you aren't ready for this… despite what you have been claiming." She saw his eyes shift to her just then,

"I won't lie, a part of me is not… I was mulling over that as well. I'm… not really sure why I feel that way for certain. My best guess is that because I have only allowed myself to make love to those I was intending to marry later… it's causing me to feel uncertain and unready for this step. I've never had sex outside of that purpose even when I really wanted it. It's been one of the standards I've always held myself to." He glanced away for a moment to find his words, "I think that once we get going I will be alright, I just need a little push is all. I trust you Granity, I want to complete our bond just as much as you do." his eyes connected with hers again, he could see her searching his for answers.

"You're certain this is what you want? That you can handle this?" She seemed uncertain now, * I hadn't realized that perhaps he wasn't ready… He was hiding that by masking it with concern for me. Was he embarrassed? Or perhaps he didn't even realize until now what he was doing. I can't use my allure… it would be far too intense and invasive for him at this point. I never imagined that he… held himself to such a high standard despite his sexual activity. Perhaps that is something I need to explore more to understand him fully. *

"Yes, I'm certain. It's not that I don't want to make love to you Granity, I do. Things are just complicated with my emotions right now. I need to let go again, I want…. No, I need you to do this." His eyes showed her what he truly needed and she smiled understanding him now.

"Alright, thank you for being honest with me." He smiled,

"I will never lie to you Granity. I have no reason to lie." She embraced him for a moment before leaning forward to whisper, "Strip down to your boxers for me." Genki nodded and stood to comply with her request. While he did so, Granity turned down the covers of the bed so they would be out of the way. She would go slow with him, let him show her he was alright with things before they got into anything major. Tonight, would be about him anyway, she wanted to help him relax and unwind. * I can only hope I can get him aroused so he can feel some release. With the way he is feeling that may be difficult… * After he was in his skivvies he slipped into bed with her, she smiled and gently began to caress his chest.

"If you want me to stop then tell me Genki…" He nodded his understanding, she learned forward pressing her lips to his. He relaxed under her touch, as she continued to caress his upper body. Her hand moving to touch him sensually, using the areas she knew were erotic for him. Soon he was moaning, their kiss becoming more heated. When she broke the kiss they were both panting, her hand softly caressing his abdomen watching him shutter and moan under her touch. After she was sure he was relaxed, she moved and took one of his nipples into her mouth, sucking gently on it, teasing it with her tongue and teeth. Her hand slowly moved down to his hips and thighs, caressing him carefully. She felt him tense briefly then moan as she continued her ministrations. After a little while longer she moved to kiss him again, his mouth eagerly met hers as her hand moved over his groin; caressing him through his boxers. She felt his body respond and shutter again, she could tell he was starting to get aroused. * It might take more than a hand job to get him erect. I'm not sure what he will allow me to do, I will have to play it by ear I guess. Though I doubt he'd turn down anything like Holly has done. Still I don't want to force him, not after what he saw tonight. * After a few more minutes she felt him relax fully under her touch, she waited a little longer letting him get used to the sensations before she gently slipped her hand into his boxers. His reaction was immediate, he moaned loudly as his body tensed for a moment. She broke their kiss and whispered, "Does this feel good?" He shuttered again as her fingers moved over and around his member. It took a moment for him to find his voice,

"Yes… it's just a bit intense…"

"Do you want me to stop?" He moaned again briefly before he answered,

"No… just give me time to get used to what I'm feeling…" She smiled, kissing his neck she continued to caress him, she could feel he was about half hard right now. * I wonder if the intensity affects how well he can get it up? If it's overwhelming I would imagine it'd be hard for him. * She waited awhile before making her next move, she gently took hold of his boxers and pulled on them. He understood and lifted his hips so she could remove them. And blush covered his face as he moaned again, she was now able to target specific parts of him easier with the last obstacle gone. Granity moved to kiss him once more as she continued to work his member, she felt it responding slowly but it seemed to reach a point where it couldn't fully get erect despite the stimulation. Deciding he needed something more she broke the kiss again, slowly she kissed down his body. Taking time to play with his nipples again along the way. He understood before she reached her destination what she was planning. Soon a very loud moan escaped him as he felt her trying her new tactic. Despite what he had thought beforehand, he felt himself become fully aroused by what she was doing. The feeling of her mouth around him and the sight of her going down on him was enough to bring him close to the edge, far closer than he had gotten in a long time. When her hand joined her mouth in working his body it was the push he needed, crying out her name he felt the release he had wanted to feel for weeks; his body continued to spasm for a few minutes after she had finished. She moved up to hold him as he came down off his high, he held her close just trying catch his breath. * I have never felt anything that intense… how was she able to do that? * he decided against asking, since he didn't want to spoil the mood. All of the tension he had felt prior was gone, his body fully relaxed after such a powerful experience. After a few minutes he managed to speak to her,

"That was amazing Granity… thank you, I feel much better." She smiled, kissing him gently for a moment before responding.

"I'm glad I could help. You haven't managed to masturbate in a while have you?"

"Successfully? No, though I have tried to do so. It's been quite a while since my last release." He felt her nuzzle into him,

"I thought as much. I will be happy to do that any time Genki, just let me know when you need it." He smiled gently,

"Don't think this is one sided, I would be happy to return the favor. I know that must have aroused you." His voice was soft and gentle as he spoke to her. He would let her decide if he was allowed to touch her that way yet. He heard her chuckle,

"I am aroused yes; can you manage to stay awake that long?"

"I can, will you let me pleasure you in return?" He saw her pull back to meet his gaze, she smiled and nodded.

"Yes, just be gentle." He smiled and leaned forward to whisper,

"I will always be gentle when we make love." He felt her shiver as he moved his hand over her side, soon his hand moved to her belly. Her flesh shuttered and a moan escaped her as he touched her, "If you change your mind you can stop me at any time." he whispered as his hand played along the edge of her bust, not yet touching her there. He felt her shiver in delight again before her soft voice reached his ears once more.

"I won't change my mind… I want this Genki." He smiled as he leaned in to kiss her, she met him eagerly as his hand moved over her impressive bust. A moan escaped her as he began to caress and massage her there. Waiting for her to relax into the sensation before he moved his hand under her top, his hand gently continuing to massage her wondrous full flesh. Her moans became louder as she deepened the kiss, her tongue entering his mouth. Genki would take it slow just to make sure she was alright with proceedings. His finger and thumb found her nipple and began to play with it as his other hand slipped under her top. After a few moments of intense kissing they parted, panting heavily. His voice softly came to her ears,

"May I?" she smiled and nodded, "Clasp is in the back, right?"

"Yes, two of them. Back of the neck and middle of my back." He nodded, briefly removing his hands to undo the clasps. With her halter like top free, he pulled it away revealing her upper body to him. Instead of staring though he leaned in to kiss her again, his hand gently caressing over her belly and chest before he went back to massaging her. His reactions to her were far different from what she was expecting. * I'm surprised he didn't look me over, even Holly did that the first time she removed my top. He's so different than I expected, very respectful and focused. * a moan escaped her as his fingers toyed with her nipple again. * This feels amazing and we only just started… I guess all that experience really pays off. * He broke the kiss softly and kissed down her neck, slowly making his way to her chest. Soon she felt him take her nipple into his mouth and apply gentle suction as he pleasured her. His hand still working her other mound, teasing its peak from time to time while he massaged her. He switched sides after a while, giving each side some stimulation. Her moans told him she enjoyed every bit of what he was doing. Soon his hand wandered over her belly moving to her side then down to her hips and thighs. He kept a slow pace to allow her time to adjust to what he was doing, and time for her to protest if she decided she couldn't do this. When he felt her fully relax into his touch he carefully moved his fingers up her inner thigh. Using just his finger tips to caress her there, he felt her body tense and shutter under his touch. He knew this area would be sensitive and sensual for her, it was for all women. After he was certain she was comfortable he moved his hand to the juncture between her legs, tracing over her bikini bottom. He heard her gasp and then moan as he did so, he moved up from her chest to kiss her once more. Her hand came to his jaw to hold him there as they made out. After a little while his hand made its way inside the last article of clothing, his fingers caressing over her. Her moan was loud as she broke the kiss to catch her breath, her body shivering in response. He rested his forehead against hers as he continued to touch her; whispering to her softly,

"Are you enjoying this?" He wanted to make sure that she truly wanted this, just as she had done for him. He knew by how her body was reacting that she was feeling pleasure from it physically. She panted and moaned again before responding,

"Very much so…" He smiled as his lips found hers again, she eagerly kissed him in return as his fingers moved with purpose, she moaned into the kiss then deepened it once more. Their tongues danced as he gently tugged on her bikini bottom, she easily let it slip off of her. His fingers found their way back to her soaking wet core, delving within to pleasure her more. He easily found her hidden gem and the nerve bundle within her. She broke the kiss panting and moaning loudly as he kissed his way down her body once more. Stopping to play with her breasts before descending further. Granity showed no signs of wanting him to stop so he took it as a sign that she was truly ready for this. Soon his mouth replaced his hand, Granity arched her back as she felt the pleasure he had in store for her. She was getting close to her climax now, her breathing telling him as much. Soon his fingers entered her once more as his tongue teased her sensitive bud. It was all she needed to be brought over the edge. He felt her body tense up as she loudly moaned his name, her legs shaking slightly from the intensity. When she relaxed again, he moved back to the side to hold her gently. Granity leaned into him panting, her body still coming down off of it's high. * Oh, Phoenix that was intense… I haven't had an orgasm like that in a long time. * it took her a moment to recover, in the meantime Genki pulled the covers over them both just holding her close.

"Thank you… that was the best orgasm I've had in a long time." Her voice was soft but he heard it, he was a bit surprised by her statement but decided to ask about it later. * What does Holly not get her off or something? *

"I'm glad I could please you so well."

"Genki… can we talk about some intimate things after you are done with Suezo?"

"Sure, I don't see that being a problem." He felt her snuggle with him, a smile spreading across his lips. He could see her in the moonlight that was shiny through the window. She too was smiling,

"Thanks… lets rest. You need some sleep." He chuckled, before tenderly kissing her. He then settled in to try and get some rest, he noticed she was already asleep. * Between Holly and I we must have worn her out… perhaps we do need to talk a bit. We need to discuss how we want to proceed from here. I know she wants me to make love to her but not how she would like that to happen. * He decided it could wait and closed his eyes to let himself drift off again as well, his vision forgotten for now.

---

Meanwhile

Holly had returned to find Tiger waiting, he was always a reliable escort. He saw her dagger and smiled to her,

"So, you got your new blade huh? Looks like Genki made some modifications of his own." She nodded,

"He did yes. I wasn't expecting anything like this… it's beautiful. I can only imagine what he paid for this." Tiger chuckled,

"You know he doesn't care about the cost, he wants to make you happy. That has always been his focus." She looked over at her canine friend confused,

"What are you talking about?" He smiled to her,

"Even when we were journeying to fight Mu and find the Phoenix he wanted to make you happy. He went out of his way to do so on many occasions. He has always cared for you Holly, even if he never said anything back then." Holly seemed to be deep in thought for a bit before a soft smile appeared on her face.

"Thanks Tiger."

"For what?"

"Confirming something Granity told me. She said he always loved me and always would." He chuckled,

"She's not wrong. How are those two doing by the way?"

"If you mean their bond, they are doing well. It's almost fully formed now, she has been trying to understand him better by staying with him. Though somethings are still confusing for her, it seems to be working for them." He nodded,

"How is his brother?"

"Stable, though more happened then Genki originally thought."

"So, he knows why his brother tried to kill himself then?"

"Yes, he has done what he can to help him but as he said 'I can only do so much'."

"Can you tell me what happened?" Holly sighed, she knew the others were likely to ask as well. * He has never told me to keep it to myself but still… * She glanced over to see him worried,

"Let's wait till we get back, I'm sure the others will want to know as well… I don't feel like explaining it more than once." He could tell it must have been something bad by her reaction. He nodded before asking his next question,

"Is Genki holding up alright?" She had mentioned his attack earlier in the week when they were alone gathering herbs.

"Sort of, he seemed OK until he had… night terror. Whatever he witnessed was really bad. Granity was trying to get him to go back to sleep when I left. I'm sure she will stay with him, whatever he saw… was defiantly haunting him." Tiger wasn't sure what to think now, but he had only one concern.

"He won't relapse, will he?"

"No, he seemed alright when I left. I didn't sense anything like that from him while I was connected to him briefly. Granity will watch over him I'm sure." He nodded, they arrived back at the house.

Holly entered and found the others discussing their supplies at the table. Holly's father immediately noticed her dagger, his brow raising in inquiry seeing how ornate it was. He knew his daughter hadn't ordered it like that. Hare was the first to ask about it though, his eyes trained on the beautiful blade.

"Holly, is that your new dagger?" Holly nodded to the rabbit monster,

"It is, Genki received it today." Holly removed it from her belt to let the others see it.

"You didn't order it this way, did you?"

"No, Genki apparently told Akame to add those details to it." Hare drew the blade and looked at it in awe, he had never seen a pattern in a steel blade before.

"Wow… this is amazing. I wasn't aware you could do that to steel."

"Neither was I until I saw it." Her father decided to ask something now,

"Did he tell you how much it was?" She shook her head,

"He said it was a gift, that he wanted to make up for the fact that he missed my birthday this year." The others all stared at her now. Her father smiled at this, * So he still loves her… I thought as much. I just hope they can learn to trust each other again. *

"That would explain the extras he added. He must really care about you to do such a thing." Holly met his gaze for a moment, after a moment she nodded.

"He does yes."

"I'm so jealous! You two have something really special." Colt blurted out making Holly blush slightly and smile. Colt pouted off to the side while the others sweat dropped.

"Have you two spoken?" Her father asked after the outburst.

"Not yet… Things just got settled with his brother this week and he had to deal with his sister."

"How is his brother?" Hare asked, he was now curious as to what happened.

"He is stable, apparently recovering just fine. Genki got him a friend to talk to, it seems to have helped. Genki has done all he can for him at this point."

"Did he find out why he tried to take his own life?" Her father probed gently, she nodded.

"Yes, he did though it wasn't what he was expecting." She could see they were all curious, even Colt who had only just learned of what had happened. "This stays in this house." She saw them all nod, she then continued. "His brother was badly beaten and raped." They all looked shocked, Colt was the first to recover enough to respond,

"I didn't think guys could be raped…"

"They can… in his case it was anal… they actually damaged some of his internal organs. Genki suspects the culprits were using objects to do so."

"Did they catch them?" Tiger asked growling slightly,

"Yes, they have been arrested and are awaiting trial." She could see this was difficult for them, "From what I know, his brothers' injuries were able to be repaired and he's healing well."

"Why would anyone do such a thing?" Colt asked, "I mean… what did they have to gain? Or did they just hate his brother for some reason?" Holly sighed as she mulled over how to tell them,

"From what Genki was able to find out, the guys that did this did indeed hate his brother. I guess they felt threatened by Kai in some way, even though he would never hurt anyone."

"So… his brother Kai was targeted by them over this?"

"Yes… apparently these men were a part of a small minority group that has issues with anyone different from them. Genki said they usually are just loud about their protests, they don't normally resort to criminal behavior." Yosho knew his daughter was dancing around something, her wording was far too careful.

"Kai was different from them how? What would cause such hatred?" He could see she was carefully choosing her words,

"His brother is gay, apparently these men took issue with that. Even though Kai hadn't even done anything at the time. He's very shy and hadn't even tried to date at all." She could see her father was thinking things over. Holly knew he disliked same sex relationships, he saw them as morally wrong; But he would never try to harm or kill someone over it.

"Didn't you say it was normal there?"

"It is, but there are apparently small groups that don't agree with it. They a very vocal about their disdain but usually don't harm others. In this case the men wanted to kill Kai, just for being gay. I'm pretty sure Genki would have killed those men if he could without going to jail, he was quite… angry with their behavior." Yosho looked like he was mulling this over as Colt decided to ask a question,

"Does Genki care that his brother is gay?"

"No, he said he knew long ago he was, before he even admitted it. He saw the signs as they were growing up."

"What signs?" Colt was defiantly curious,

"His mannerisms were different apparently, the type of porn he looked at, that type of thing."

"How does he know what porn his brother was looking at?"

"He apparently walked in on him… they created a way for that not to happen again after that accident."

"Has Genki looked at porn?" Holly gave her a look that said 'why do you need to know that?' before shrugging.

"He never said anything though I would assume so at some point." Holly wasn't discussing such things with them, that was not something they needed to know and not from her.

"Told you he was a pervert…" Suezo mumbled making Holly glare at him.

"Suezo…. What did I say about accusations?"

"Oh, like you have room to talk! You and Granity are just as bad! You're probably making all those visits just to…"

"ENOUGH!" Holly yelled at the eye stalk, his eye widened as he realized his error. Holly got her anger under control as the others glanced to one another uncertain of what to do. Holly almost never snapped at people, so they knew she had to be upset. "You and I will be dealing with this behavior this evening. Genki will be assisting both of us. I do not want to hear anymore accusations out of you tonight, do I make myself clear?! If you decide to keep this behavior up then I guess we are done and you can leave. I am not going to stand by and let you lash out at everyone like this." Suezo gulped and shrank back as Tiger came over and gently nuzzled Holly's side. Holly took a few moments to regain her composure. Yosho looked between the two quite unsure of what had just happened. * Why is he been lashing out at them so much? He has always been annoying but not vindictive. He never tried to hurt Holly before. I hope they can settle this, it sounds like Holly is at her wits end with him. * After Holly recovered she smile gently to Tiger in thanks, he was there helping her as much as he could lately. Tiger decided to change the topic, hoping for a better outcome.

"What about his sister?" Holly looked confused a moment before glancing over at the others,

"His sister is in jail... again… apparently she has a habit of getting in trouble. He got a call from her while I was over earlier this week."

"She wants him to bail her out or something?"

"Something like that, she wanted help actually. She was hauled in on a murder charge, she claims she didn't kill anyone. Genki seemed to believe her after finding out she was high on drugs. He hired someone to help her remove the murder charge, though he instructed them to let the drug charges remain. Said it might do her some go to be in jail for a while."

"Why'd he believe her about the murder charge?" Hare asked,

"Because of the drugs she was on. Apparently, he knows a bit about them; because of her condition at the time she wouldn't have been able to kill someone. He said later that he doubted she could even walk let alone have the coordination to stab someone."

"Does she do that a lot?"

"Unfortunately, yes. He said she has always been in trouble even when she was young."

"Does she have a disorder too?" Tiger inquired,

"Genki suspects she does, but she refuses to be tested for one. He seemed uncertain of what to do at this point."

"What about his folks?" Colt asked,

"They no longer assist her at this point, Genki is the only one who will even answer her calls. Deep down she is still his sister and he loves her, but he never agrees with her."

"Is she older then him?" Her father asked, Holly nodded.

"By a few years yes."

"Then I would suspect she isn't planning to have a family."

"He said he doubted she would ever settle down. She's not the type, and he wasn't sure he'd trust her with children." His brow raised at that comment but he said nothing further. Holly decided to leave out her sleeping around, she didn't want to deal with Suezo again right now. Mocchi had been quiet for most of the discussion, he was confused by some of what he heard but he understood things were hard for both his friends right now.

"Holly chi?"

"What is it Mocchi?" He looked a little tentative,

"Genki's brother and sister have disorders?"

"His brother is confirmed to have some yes, he only suspects his sister does due to her behavior." Mocchi met her gaze with his curious one,

"Genki doesn't have a disorder does he chi?" Holly's eyes widened at his question, everyone else looked shocked as well. Holly seemed uncertain of how to reply. * Do I tell them? Or do I act like I don't know? This is not an easy thing and Genki isn't ready… I will have to lie for now… I hate it but I can't betray his trust again. *

"Mocchi… that is something I can't answer. You would have to ask him that question." she would leave it at that, make is seem like she didn't know the answer. She had never imagined he would be the one asking about this though. * I wonder if he senses something is wrong through his bond with Genki? * Hare bailed her out with his next words.

"Come on Mocchi, do you really think he could manage to hide something like that? It sounds like these disorders are noticeable. We'd know if he was having a problem."

"He's really sad chi…" the others looked around in confusion,

"What are you talking about?"

"I feel it chi…" he placed his hand on his chest over his heart.

"You mean through your bond Mocchi?" Holly asked, she saw the young monster nod. "He is sad yes, it has been a hard week for him. He will be alright though."

"Will you help him chi?"

"I will try, I can only do so when he lets me. Things are… rather complicated right now. We have a lot to work through." Holly wasn't sure about mentioning his vision to the others even if it would explain things. He had been hesitant to even say it to her and Granity and they knew all of his issues.

"Has he said anything about when you two will talk?" Hare inquired, he seemed worried. Holly nodded,

"After we have our… discussion with Suezo. He wanted to do that first, though he didn't say why specifically." Suezo looked confused now but decided to say nothing. He doubted Holly wanted to speak with him right now anyway. Yosho was trying to figure out the young mans motive for waiting as well. * Perhaps there is something more going on with those two then I know of. I know she doesn't tell me things, even if I wish she would. Whatever it is maybe stressful for her and possibly Genki as well. That's the only thing I can think of as a reason behind his request. *

"If you need to spend more time with him let me know, I can cover some of your chores while you do that." He said to his daughter who looked very surprised by the offer. She smiled,

"Thank you father… I would like that. Genki has some time off in another week. I would like to spend some time with him then. I doubt we can sort through everything in just one week, so I imagine we will need time then to talk things out as well." He nodded,

"I imagine it will be a slow process. I would like to talk with him tonight though. I have a few questions for him." Holly looked suspicious now,

"You aren't going to interrogate him are you?" He chuckled,

"No, I just wanted to ask a few things about his world is all. Things you may not have asked about at this point."

"I will let him know." Holly was still worried about what he wanted to talk to him about but would leave it be for now. She could always ask Genki later. Colt piped up now,

"Hey, did you pass on my question?"

"Yes, He said you can visit if you can behave. He also thinks Tiger should be safe for a visit as well." She glanced to Tiger with a smile,

"Sounds good, does he know what the portal will do though?"

"He thinks it it'll turn you into a human on the way through. That's what happened to Granity. He said worse case it will keep you at a canine form but lose all the monster traits."

"So it will transform me back on the my return trip?" He tilted his head,

"Yes, that's what Granity's experience has been." He nodded as Colt spoke up looking a little offended,

"What did he mean by 'If I can behave'?" Holly giggled at her before answering,

"I believe he means not hugging him to death or hitting on him." Colt went back to pouting muttering, "I'm not that bad", making the others laugh at her.

"So he doesn't mind us visiting?" Hare asked curiously,

"No, he said any of you can come over for a visit. He just wants to know ahead of time." Holly smiled to him before she glanced to the clock. "Were you all discussing our inventory for he winter?"

"Yeah, we have the list for medical supplies hammered out I think. We do need your input though, I don't know what you might need for births? I figured you'd know best since you have helped with so many." Hare confirmed then gave her a look of uncertainty.

"We only have two ladies who are expecting. So we shouldn't need a whole lot. Here let me look over what you have." He handed her the list and she took it. She knew she'd need to make lunch and get her chores done before evening so she could jump over briefly before her meeting with Suezo, it would be a long day. * though it may be longer for Genki considering he won't get much sleep. * She resolved to try and make their discussion with Suezo efficient as possible, she was worried about him.

---

Granity woke to the sound of Genki's alarm going off, she rolled over to shut it off. When she looked back she noticed he hadn't moved at all. Chuckling she gently shook him,

"Genki wake up, we need to get ready." He groaned, mumbling 'five more minutes' before trying to sleep again. Granity laughed at this, she knew he was tired but he needed to get up. She leaned over and captured his lips with her own. Slowly she kissed him, her hand caressing his cheek. She felt him respond back slowly, his own hand moving to hold her there. After a minute or so she parted from him, giving him a gentle knowing smile.

"So I have to wake you up like that huh?" She jokingly asked, poking him with her finger a little. He looked up at her groggily, a small smile appeared on his face as he responded.

"You don't have to but it is nice." She laughed at him and playfully swatted him on the chest,

"Get up mister, you have promises to keep." He sighed and nodded, but before she could pull away he grabbed her and kissed her once more. She hadn't expected him to do that but she welcomed it. After a few more minutes of heated kissing he pulled back, smiling at her.

"Now I can get up." was all he said leaving a very confused pixie in his wake as he rose to put some clothes on. She got a nice view as he did so, * He's defiantly not shy… * soon she joined him, finding her clothing on the floor nearby. She redressed, taking care to see if she needed to wash anything after dealing with Holly. She knew she would need a shower by then. "I'll give you something to wear later and we can wash your outfit then if you like?" Genki stated as if reading her mind.

"Can you wash it while I deal with Holly?" He nodded,

"Yes, I can. You want one of my shirts for use after you are done with Holly?" She nodded,

"I'll get you one. Just put your clothes outside the door."

"I don't care if you see me naked you know." He chuckled,

"I know, that doesn't mean you shouldn't have privacy if you want it." She smiled at this, he was being a gentleman.

"I know, I'm fine with you watching really…It's not like Holly hasn't seen me naked as well."

"I don't think Holly would do well with you naked and me there too. She would probably just about pass out from embarrassment." He quipped making her laugh,

"You maybe right." After dressing they went down stairs to eat something. Genki threw her outfit in the wash before he returned to help make breakfast. Granity noticed he needed a lot of coffee and realized he must be exhausted * I really need to make sure he rests well tonight. It's not going to be an easy day for him. * When Holly asked if they were up she chuckled, she knew by her tone Holly wanted to escape again. Holly had briefly told the others of Genki's wound needing extra attention, that it seemed to not be responding to the ointment he had. Golem had helped her gather herbs and she made a salve that she would put on his arm before he popped over. It was a good excuse for a quick visit.

"I hope you can get her off quickly, that excuse of hers won't work for a long visit." Granity glanced over at him with a raised brow,

"Are you doubting my prowess?" She smirked at him, he chuckled.

"I'm doubting Holly being able to relax. You know how she is when she is tense, she is liable to suppress her orgasm." Granity laughed and shook her head.

"Don't worry, I have my tricks to deal with that. I'll make sure she is relaxed for you and yes I can do it in a short time." Genki nodded, and went to throw her outfit in the dryer. Granity left to help Holly jump a crossed, meanwhile Genki got his medical kit out so they could quickly deal with his arm. He hoped it would take only a few minutes so Holly could have the rest of the time alone with Granity. Holly looked rather upset when she arrived, Genki raised a brow at this but didn't ask. She did a double take after seeing Granity in his shirt.

"Mine is being washed" Genki chuckled and corrected her.

"It's being dried now actually…" Holly shook her head and headed for the kitchen. He let her get to work on his arm, she noticed it was still oozing badly as she got to cleansing it. Granity looked concerned,

"Genki this looks really bad still."

"I plan on contacting my doctor on Monday. I'll have him take a look at it, he may figure out something else to use on it."

"This salve should help as well but you may need more than just a simple salve or ointment." Holly spoke softly. He nodded as he held back a whimper of pain, it was really sensitive and the abrasive cloth was not helping. After she finished cleaning it and patting it dry she waited a moment before applying the salve. She knew this had been very painful for him and wanted to give him time to recover. Soon the salve forced a hiss of pain out of him, it stung bad, Granity could feel it in his grip on her hand. She helped him through the pain as Holly wrapped his wound.

"Kami that smarts…" He commented as he tried to deal with it, * It must be infected * he decided as he waited for it to pass. Holly touched his shoulder gently hoping to help him. "I'll be fine Holly. Just go with Granity, you don't have much time unless you want to answer a lot of questions when you get back." The girls looked at each other then both nodded,

"You sure?"

"I'll be fine… I'll leave your outfit outside the door for you Granity. It should be done in a few minutes." The ladies nodded and headed downstairs, it was after they did they Genki hissed in pain again. "Damn this hurts bad…. I hope it stops before we get to the village…" Genki took his pain medication then settled down to read hoping it would take his mind off the pain. When the dryer finished he took Granity's outfit downstairs and placed it by the door. He briefly heard some load moans while he was there, he headed back upstairs quickly not wanting to disturb them. * I guess she can get her off quickly… well that's good. Still what did Granity mean by 'the best she's had in awhile' last night? Does Holly not get her off or not get her off very well? Maybe I will inquire about that later… she did want to have some intimate conversations after all. * When the girls re-emerged, Granity was wearing her usually outfit and Holly looked a bit less tense. He saw them both get some water and sit down a moment. He noticed Granity seemed just as out of breath as Holly and gave her a look of inquiry. She smiled to him as Holly looked unsure of what to say,

"Why do you look like you ran a marathon?" Was all he asked,

"It was a mutual experience…" He barked a laugh then nodded going back to his book as they recovered. It took a few more minutes before they were no longer breathing hard, the pain in his arm had dulled but was still present. He hoped it would at least stay dulled so he could concentrate. When Holly rose Genki put his book down, they all went to the office and he opened the portal once more. Genki grabbed a messenger bag he had prepared before hopping though the portal.

---

Genki popped through first, both ladies following close behind. He saw Tiger waiting for them, he looked concerned.

"Sorry Tiger… that salve hurt more then expected… it took me a bit to recover." He would cover for the girls as he knew they didn't want the others knowing at this point.

"You sure you're OK Kid?"

"I'll be fine, I'll talk with my doctor when his office opens on Monday." Tiger nodded, then turned to lead them back.

"Holly did you mention Mocchi's question to him?" She shook her head,

"No I forgot."

"What are you talking about?" Genki looked between the two, Granity looked confused as well.

"Mocchi asked me last night is you had any disorders." Both Genki and Granity looked startled,

"Why would he ask that?"

"I told them about your brother and sister." Genki looked surprised then torn as to whether that was OK or not. Tiger noticed his mood change and looked uncertain what to do. * So she never told him? Seriously this is not going to endear him to you… * he decided to rescue her a little hoping it would explain her reasoning to some degree.

"Genki… She ended up telling us because the others were pressing her after they found out what happened between you two. They wanted her to speak to you right away… she told us she couldn't not with everything going on with your brother. That it would be too much for you to deal with at the time." Genki seemed to think it over then sigh,

"I never told you not to say anything so that is my own fault… What did you say in response to Mocchi?"

"I told him that I couldn't answer that, he would have to ask you himself." Genki sighed, he did not want to deal with this right now. "He could sense something through your bond… that's why he asked." He looked unsure of how to deal with that. * Why wait until now to ask? If he could feel it all along, why not ask when I was hurting the most? * Granity touched his shoulder gently, he glanced her way.

"The bond you have with him may only let him feel things at certain times. It might not happen all the time… I don't know how strong it truly is between you." The fact that she had answered his question made him raise a brow but he nodded.

"Are you a mind reader now?" She laughed at his quip,

"No more than you are with your comment this morning." He chuckled then nodded knowing what she meant. Holly and Tiger looked confused but shrugged it off after a moment, Genki looked back to Holly now.

"I will handle Mocchi… and the others if they ask." He saw her nod, he then looked to Tiger, "I assume she told you my other issues?" He nodded,

"Yes, though she hasn't talked to anyone else about them. You OK with me knowing?"

"It's fine… not like I didn't confess to you on my own. I don't mind you knowing."

"Genki… My father wants to speak with you after we finish with Suezo."

"Did he say why?"

"Only that he had some questions about your world." He nodded, * Yeah right, he has questions alright but I doubt it's just about my world. Given Suezo's comments he might ask about my bedding his daughter. * He sighed,

"As long as I'm still awake by then that shouldn't be an issue."

"Did you even get any sleep?" Holly looked worried,

"Some… not nearly enough though."

"Don't let a night terror get to you Kid. I'm sure you'll feel better tonight." Genki glanced to Holly who gave him a soft smile. *So she didn't tell them about that huh? Interesting… *

---

When they arrived they saw Colt running after Suezo with her zapper gun trying to hit him with it. The four all sweat dropped just watching,

"Do I even want to know what he did this time…?" Was all Genki said as he walked over to where the others were watching.

"What's with Colt?" Tiger probed as they watched the show before them.

"Oh Suezo stole her notebook then threw it on the roof… Golem retrieved it but she's out for blood it seems." Genki raised a brow, he glanced at Holly.

"Do me a favor, go look at that notebook."

"Why?"

"Just do it." Holly shrugged and did so, Granity heard Colt scream about him being a pervert then glanced to Genki.

"Not a notebook?"

"I don't think it is no." Holly looked quite flushed when she returned, she shook her head.

"Not a notebook, a dairy." Was all she said, Genki sighed and shook his head.

"So he's reading diaries now…" Holly flushed again, he chuckled. "I hope you hide yours Holly." He could see she was embarrassed, he then decided to end the issue. Walking over he manged to grab Colt and get her to shoot at a metal farm tool which then felt over and hit Suezo on the head stopping him dead in his tracks. He lay on the ground with a spiral in his eye as everyone else looked on in amazement, unsure of how he had timed that so perfectly. Colt was looking very confused, looking between her gun and where the knocked out monster was. She was about to protest when Genki went to grab him, he interrupted her calmly stating. "I need him alive, you can kill him later." Genki then walked over grabbed his tail and dragged him off. "Let's go Holly… he'll wake up shortly." Holly followed after him with a sigh as the others stood there completely unsure of what to do. Hare finally burst out laughing as the pair walked off towards the barn.

---

Genki sighed as he sat down in the barns storage room, it was a small walled off area that would provide some privacy for them. Holly closed the door as they waited for Suezo to wake up, Genki could see he still had stars in his eye.

"I never thought he'd read another persons diary…" she stated quietly, still blushing.

"I take it there was something that you read that turned you into a tomato?" She stared at him before nodding, "well just forget about it for now. Though I do hope he doesn't know where you keep yours…"

"If I know him he probably went looking for it…"

"I don't doubt that." He notice Suezo finally moving, he chuckled. "Did you finally wake up?" Suezo popped up and looked around frantically.

"What… where…"

"We managed to save you from Colt though she might kill you later. What made you think it was a good idea to read her diary?" Suezo's pupil got tiny as he stared at Genki, before he finally recovered enough to answer.

"I didn't know it was her diary… it looked like one of her notebooks…"

"You still read it." Now he was sputtering trying to come up with a rebuttal. Genki sighed, "Seriously, you should have threw it back at her the moment you realized what it was." he shook his head, "Regardless we have a few things to discuss I believe." He glanced at Holly who had calmed down now, she nodded. Suezo could see she was ready to talk though he wasn't sure if she was still mad at him from earlier or not. Suezo hopped over to crate and hopped up on it to take a seat. He was facing Holly who had a spot across the room from him. "Alright Suezo, I spoke with Holly earlier this week. She agreed to discuss things with you, though I heard you were being quite a pain earlier. Making accusations of sexual conduct for not only her but Granity and I as well." Suezo frowned, he nodded before speaking.

"Yeah… what of it? It's not really accusations if it's true…" Genki sighed seeing the eyeball already getting stubborn.

"Do you have any proof that any of these occurred?"

"I saw her and Granity."

"And the other stuff?"

"No… I don't have proof…"

"Then you can't know that it's true. And even if it is true, her sex life are none of your concern. The same goes for Granity and I. Seriously you are making things worse with these accusations." Suezo eyed him before sighing, "Moving on from that, I think you both need to talk and release this tension between you. It's only making things worse for everyone." Suezo could see Holly was still upset but she hadn't moved, which told him she would listen. Genki could see neither wanted to start, he rolled his eyes and decided to prompt them. "Suezo, when we spoke you said you could feel the bond between you weakening. Why don't you tell Holly why you have been lashing out all week?" Suezo eyed him a moment before sighing, he refused to look at Holly but he did start talking.

"I know you probably don't care now but I'm tried of being treated differently than the others… Your bond with Tiger and Granity is much strong then ours has ever been. Do you no longer want me?" Holly was surprised by his question, she felt slightly guilty that he now thought he was unwanted. She sighed then spoke softly,

"Suezo… it's hard for me to trust you right now. You have tried to grope me on numerous occasions even before Tiger and Granity chose me. You never let me decide what I want to do with my life, who I want to date, or even dance with. My bond with Tiger and Granity is stronger because they trust me to make my own decisions. The bond is about trust between us, of course it is weakening with the lack of trust we have. Of course I still want you, I would never kick you out Suezo. I'm just tried of you lashing out over jealousy. Why didn't you come to me and talk to me about this before?" Holly's voice was even but Genki could see the stress in her again.

"Oh like you would talk to me about this. You avoid any topic that makes you uncomfortable." He muttered making her raise a brow,

"I do not avoid topics just for the reason alone Suezo. You haven't even tried to talk to me about our bond in years. I always hear you out, no matter what topic it is." He sighed, he knew this was true.

"You told me you would never have sex with me… that we didn't need a physical bond like that and yet you did just that with Granity. Phoenix knows if you snuck off with Tiger as well…" His words caught her off guard, it took her a moment to reply as she tried to rein in her emotions.

"What happened with Granity was not intentional… it just sort of happened as we bonded. I'm not sure if it's because I felt… more comfortable with another woman or if it was due to her being a pixie. I didn't set out wanting that kind of bond with her, I only wanted a soul bond. I wanted to help her recover from her pain, something she can't do alone." She could see he was attentive even if his eye was elsewhere, "As for Tiger, our bond is not physical that way. I have never had sex with him and I doubt he is seeking that." Genki waited to see how Suezo would respond, he knew this was a sore spot for the eye ball monster, his pride had been injured.

"Yet I'm seeking it and you have denied me! It's because I'm a Suezo isn't it… you only fuck beautiful monsters, is that it?!" Suezo blurted out, his heart was aching hearing her confession. A few tears leaked out making Holly really consider her next words. * I never meant to hurt him like this. * though their bond had weakened she felt his pain. She sighed as she tried to find her words,

"Suezo… it's far more complicated than you just being a Suezo. You are not ugly so I'm not sure why you are always putting yourself down, you are just different."

"Then why?!" Genki moved now to help the sobbing eyeball, he had been waiting patiently but realized that Suezo was too emotional to really be listening right now. He soothed him gently something that surprised Holly, who had never seen Genki assist the eyeball monster before. After he calmed down a bit, he nodded to her to continue.

"There are two reasons." She looked to him to make sure he was listening, he was so she continued. "Firstly, you are a brother to me. I could never have sex with someone who I consider to be my sibling Suezo, emotionally it feels wrong for me."

"That's just an excuse…" he mumbled, Genki now intervened as Holly reigned herself in emotionally.

"Suezo would you have had sex with Pink Eye?" Suezo stared at him dumbfounded, when he finally recovered he shook his head no.

"No… she was my big sister…"

"You weren't related by blood, yet you felt that way. Now you know how Holly feels." He seemed to mull this over for a moment, he glanced back to Holly who spoke once more.

"The second reason is something I should have told you years ago. I was too embarrassed to talk about it at the time. Physically if we were to have such a union it would cause me a lot of pain, if not cause internal damage. I know you think humans are like Pixies… we aren't, we can't mate with just any male. My body won't… adjust like a pixie's would and it would cause some tearing internally." Suezo's eye got huge, he hadn't expected that. Genki pulled out the anatomy book he had and brought it over for Suezo to look at. He opened it to the correct page and showed it to him, Suezo seemed to look it over and read through it a moment. Holly hadn't even seen the book so she was unsure of it's contents, but she trusted Genki. She could see by his frown that he understood now. He could see how upset Holly was, she wasn't looking at him at the moment but her posture spoke volumes. He had known her for so long he could read her like an open book.

"Why didn't you tell me this before?" Suezo asked softly, he was confused as why Holly couldn't talk about it. Holly sighed, she seemed to be unsure of what to say.

"I was too embarrassed… sex isn't an easy topic for me. Explaining the physical side would be much harder especially since I know you have never seen any anatomy books until now. I'm still not sure I could fully explain it on my own, I asked Genki for help because of that."

"I know you have a hard time with it… but why is sex such an issue for you? It wasn't when you first unlocked me." Genki looked mildly interested now, * must have been before her 'punishment' * he thought as he waited to see if she would tell him. Holly sighed closing her eyes,

"Suezo do you remember Laura?"

"The wench that abused her daughter? Yeah I remember her why?" He seemed very unsure of where this was going. Holly sighed heavily, she seemed to debate on how to talk to him about this.

"Laura caught me… masturbating as a teen. She told me I was a whore and I was… punished for doing such an act. It was just before she and her husband left the village." She refused to look at him, "Ever since then I've had problems talking about sex." Genki walked to her side to gentle rubbed her back, he could tell she was holding back tears. Suezo also saw this, but he felt rage building inside him over what that woman had done. Genki could see his anger and knew what was about to happen, he decided to just let it play out rather then calm the eye stalk down.

"THAT FUCKING BITCH! HOW DARE SHE HURT YOU LIKE THAT!" he went off into a tirade after that outburst over how he was so glad she died in Mu's attack and that her daughter escaped. Genki could tell it would be awhile before he calmed back down. Genki moved in front of Holly to get her to look at him. He could see her pain, he gently pulled her into an embrace, just holding her. Holly gave in and sobbed into his chest.

* Holly you should have told someone what happened years ago… I know you were scared but still. I'm betting that woman abused her based on the way she acts. That woman did it to her own daughter for Kami's sake, I don't see her holding back with Holly. * He gently soothed her as Suezo came down off his rant, he could see Holly was extremely upset. He felt her pain through their weakened bond, it was like a knife in his heart. He frowned,

* What have I been doing to her?… over my jealousy… she has been hurting this whole time. Laura was abusive I'm sure. She was caught more than once abusing other children. I'm really surprised they were even allowed back into the village at all. * Suezo let Genki help her as he waited patiently. He knew Genki could help her, though he was unsure if either of them would ever be together. * Is this why she feared a relationship with Genki? Or was it something else? I understand what he was telling me now. He helps her even though he's in pain, because he loves her. * After a few more minutes she calmed down again, Genki returned to his seat waiting to see what they would do now that the air had been cleared a little.

"You should have told Grandmother, you shouldn't have let her get away with that."

"I know… I was so scared back then… and ashamed. I thought I had done something wrong…" Her voice told him she was still scared.

"You didn't do anything wrong…"

"I realize that now Suezo… Granity has been helping me deal with this." His eye widened, he hadn't realized that this might be the reason she was wanting to be alone with Granity so much.

"I'm sorry for thinking you were… only wanting to be alone with Granity for physical needs." Genki could tell he was trying to be delicate but that phrasing made him cringe. * Suezo… tact please… * Holly seemed OK despite the phrasing though, much to Genki's relief.

"We both have a lot of emotional baggage Suezo… we need each other at this point. It was never just about sex…I haven't been able to express myself freely in years. I always feel some sort of pressure to conform to what is expected of me. Granity is helping me deal with all that and express myself again." She wasn't sure she wanted to tell him she was bisexual. He had told everyone about her and Granity making love, the trust was no longer there for her. Suezo frowned he hadn't realized how much pressure she was under.

"You feel pressured to have a family right? Because of your age?" She nodded,

"Yes… it's not normal for a woman my age to be single still…" He looked uncertain of what to say now. He knew she was right but he had never agreed with that sentiment. Genki decided to intercede on his behalf, sensing the eyeball monster was at a loss.

"We often feel pressured by society, fighting against that can be hard especially if our family joins in with the societal norms. All we can do is find peace with ourselves and seek those who truly care about us. If the love is real then they will understand and support us even when they don't agree with us." Genki's voice was soft as he spoke, Holly looked up startled by his words. Suezo eyed the young man before asking,

"I take it you feel pressured as well?"

"My pressures are a bit different. Most in my culture don't marry until they are 26 to 28 years of age though we do date before then. However, I am pressured to stay long hours at work. Typically most Japanese men work six days a week and stay long hours. It's expected by the companies that employ us, though I have been lucky with my boss. Even when I have a family that expectation will remain the same, as a result most fathers are absent as their children grow up. My father was gone most of the time when I was growing up, he still is due to his job. There are times I'm expected to join coworkers after work at a bar or restaurant, even though I'm not paid for this it is expected by society. Being part of a job in my country is becoming part of a family and it is expected you show some loyalty to that family. It's something I have to balance against everything else I have going on. On top of that most are expected to put the needs of their immediate family above their own needs. My parents have always been extremely lenient on this but my grandparents were not. I remember many times where I was very sleep deprived due to something going on with my grandparents." Both Holly and Suezo looked shocked at this, he smiled sadly before he spoke again. "I have made it a priority of mine to not just give in to such cultural norms, but to balance them against my own needs. It's not easy and I will face ridicule for it but it's something I wanted to do; though society will see it as selfish on my part for doing so." Suezo couldn't believe what Genki had gone through, he had never imagined being pressured like that. He frowned thinking of how hard things must be for him trying to balance everything. * How much more pressure do we put on him? I mean if he is supposed to work long hours and come over here with the time difference… he does look very tired actually. * Suezo sighed and looked back at Holly, who seemed unsure of what to do. He could see the guilt in her eyes as well, telling him she felt bad for Genki. He glanced to Genki again,

"Is that why you disappeared for a few months all those years ago? It wasn't just your fight was it?" Genki sighed, Holly looked unsure of what to say.

"Suezo are you going to not go blabbing everything you are told anymore? Can I trust you to not tell everyone what we say to you in confidence?" His eyes met a startled monster who looked confused,

"I haven't told them anything you said to me, not even Holly."

"You told the others all about Holly's sex life." He sputtered a moment, he saw Holly looking to the floor again. He approached her gaining her attention,

"I'm sorry Holly… I let my emotions and jealously get the better of me. I shouldn't have said anything about that to them…"

"I was never intending to hurt you Suezo… I needed someone who understood me and what I was going through. Granity understands in a way you can't."

"You mean because she is female?" Holly nodded, he sighed nodding his understanding. "Can you forgive me Holly?" She looked up startled then smiled softly,

"Yes… we have a lot of healing to do though… our bond will have to be rebuilt." Genki smiled seeing the two make amends, Suezo carefully hugged her and Holly returned it gently. He let them be for a moment, they needed this after all the stress they had put each other through. After a moment he commented to them,

"You know you used to have a physical bond when we were journeying Suezo. I remember many times where you two would share touches with out a second thought. A physical bond doesn't have to be about sex after all." his voice was soft an even, both of them looked startled but soon Holly smiled.

"I suppose you are right…" she could see Suezo understood now as well, "Granity taught you that didn't she?" He nodded,

"She has taught me a lot over the past few weeks. Both about the bonds and about the pixie breed. Something I knew little about before now." Suezo sighed then spoke again,

"I'm sorry for making you out to be a pervert Genki…"

"Don't make anymore accusations then. Especially since you really don't know what's going on." Suezo nodded, Genki then sighed. "As far as your question, no it wasn't just our fight that kept me away. There were many factors to my disappearance. Our fight was just one of them." He could see Suezo was curious,

"Was your family a problem?"

"A bit yes, my grandparents always had high expectations of their grandchildren. It definitely lead to my brother's massive problems with his anxiety. He never felt that he was ever good enough, there were times I felt that as well. I had my own issues with my grandparents but I was still close to them despite our… difference in opinion."

"So you were helping your brother?"

"At the time, no. I was trying to recover myself…" Genki paused to think of how to tackle this subject manner. * If they know about my brother it will make it easier I guess… *

"From what?" Suezo looked confused, Genki glanced briefly to Holly who seemed unsure of what to do. Genki sighed again,

"After my fight with Holly… I had my own mental breakdown. I tried to commit suicide. Akame found me, she stopped me from doing so and gave me the outlet I needed at the time." He looked away now, he could see Suezo's jaw was hanging open, he sighed again closing his eyes. "Holly told you of my brother and sister. I didn't escape from the family issue with disorders. I have my own demons I have to fight as a result. It's not an easy thing to do alone, especially under certain circumstances. I never said anything because I didn't think you could understand. So I stayed quiet, just hoping my issues could get by unnoticed." He waited to see how the eyeball monster responded, Holly hadn't moved from her position but she could see Genki was anxious. * He never escapes the pressure does he? Here or at home… it's always something. I need to help him… * Suezo took a moment to recover, he never imagined Genki of all people would try to commit suicide.

"Mocchi was right then? About you having a problem?"

"Yes, though he doesn't fully understand it. He felt it through our bond apparently." Suezo glanced to Holly now,

"You knew?" She nodded, "Then why lie about it?" he frowned.

"I never lied. I said I couldn't answer that question, not that I didn't know the answer. He told me these things in confidence, he wasn't ready to tell everyone else yet. I wasn't going to add that stress onto him and break his trust again. I have enough to make amends for as it is… if I can make amends for it." Genki sighed, he knew she felt bad but he didn't want her to feel hopeless like this.

"Holly, I told you I forgave you. Let it go. I'm not going to hold this over your head and hurt you with it. That's not who I am. Yes our trust has to be rebuilt but that doesn't mean I will not try to rebuild it with you. I don't want you to act out of guilt." He spoke softly then shook his head, his eyes connecting with hers. Suezo realized now that these two had a long road ahead if they were ever going to be together. He frowned, * I don't see them getting through this anytime soon. They defiantly weren't sleeping together like I thought they might be. Why did I ever think Holly would do that? She avoids sex… was it only because of Granity? Why was she willing with a female though? I mean that shouldn't be easy for her either… * He looked to her again and decided to ask, * She said she couldn't express herself freely… what was she suppressing? *

"Holly?"

"Yes, Suezo?"

"I realize now that you two weren't sleeping together… I'm sorry for insinuating that." Holly nodded,

"We have too much to work through for that to be happening." He nodded then continued,

"Can I ask why you… were willing to have sex with Granity? What have you been holding back?" Holly looked torn now,

"Promise me you won't tell the others…" He nodded,

"I promise, it'll stay between us." Holly sighed, her eyes connected with Genki's for a moment. His eyes telling her to trust him, to make the jump to start healing. She gained confidence from him then looked back to Suezo.

"I'm… Bisexual… I have always felt attracted to other women to some degree. It's something I've had to suppress… here that is forbidden. You saw how the others reacted to Akame and her girl. My father has made it clear that his stance is that it's immoral and that's it. I can't be myself… even when I want to be." She closed her eyes, her hands tightly clenched in her lap. "I know that someday I have to settled down and have a family… I do want children and I can't do that with another woman. That doesn't change how I feel though… Right now I'm working through things with Granity. Not everything is about sex, we don't always make love even if we do cuddle a lot. She understands that I feel… trapped. I'm still not sure ultimately what will happen but I don't want to feel trapped anymore." Suezo was shocked once more, this was the last thing he was expecting from her. While he processed this Genki moved to Holly's side once more. He gently held her, soothing her without words. He knew this was a very hard thing for her to admit to anyone, let alone someone she was having trust issues with. Genki firmly believed Suezo wouldn't betray her anymore, that everything had stemmed from that misunderstanding of their bond. When Suezo recovered a bit his frown deepened, * She has been hiding this her whole life… believing we would all leave her because of how she feels? * he shook his head, * No wonder she won't talk to us about anything sensitive… we all act like being bisexual or homosexual is a plague. Especially Yosho who has literally called her immoral. Would he still say that if he knew though? Hard to say with him…* he glanced to Genki now, his gaze softened seeing how he consoled her, she was terrified he could see it. And yet the young man was doing very well at keeping her from freaking out. * We hurt both of them… Genki couldn't trust us with his problems… Holly couldn't trust us with hers. And then they hurt each other as well… thank phoenix Granity could give them some relief. * Suezo spoke gently to her now,

"Holly… I'm sorry you felt so alone and sacred. I should have been there for you, not been so selfish. You shouldn't feel ashamed because of how you feel. If you are bisexual that is fine with me, I don't want you to hurt yourself just because some idiots here can't accept that." Holly looked startled, she hadn't expected he would be OK with it. He could see tears in her eyes, after a moment she jumped forward and wrapped her arms around him. He caught her with his tongue and held her as she cried. Genki stood back letting Suezo comfort her, he smiled seeing his acceptance. * I told her before… love doesn't demand change. It accepts us as we are and encourages us to improve ourselves. I'm glad he accepted her so easily. The other monsters will probably follow suit… her father is the real problem. * He mentally groaned, * why are humans always the problem? Seriously… ingrained nonsense… * It took several minutes before the pair separated.

"Suezo it means so much to me that you are alright with this. I thought you would be against it…"

"Holly the last thing I want is for you to feel trapped. Especially after everything you have gone through." He smiled, "I'm sorry for interfering so much with your dating life… I won't bother you anymore. Date who you want, dance with who you want; it's not my decision to make."

"Thank you Suezo!" he received another tight hug and a kiss on the forehead. The eyeball monster blushed looking shy. Genki rolled his eyes, * this from the monster wanting to bang her… * Once he was certain they had patched things up he moved to grab his bag, he hissed slightly catching Holly's attention. Genki looked to see his bandage oozing, Holly came to check his arm as Suezo watched. "Genki… this is really bad…" He sighed and nodded,

"I have some salve left. Let's get back to the house so I can clean this again. It's definitely infected…" He nodded again,

"Before we go, Holly I want you to do something for Suezo." Both looked confuse and curious. "I want you to promise to not take his porn away anymore. He needs something to give him release. He doesn't interfere with your sex life, you don't interfere with his." Both looked very surprised at the request but after a moment Holly smiled and nodded her understanding. She glanced to Suezo,

"I promise to leave your stuff alone… I just don't want to see it OK?" Suezo nodded,

"I can agree to that." He glanced to Genki, "Thank you." Genki nodded,

"Just a little advice Suezo, porn doesn't replace a real person. Find someone to date yourself. Don't rely on that porn if you don't have to." He picked up his bag and walked to the door, "Keep the book, you may have need of it sometime. It has a lot of information in it." He opened it and walked out, Holly followed close behind as Suezo looked on confused. He picked up the anatomy book and began to hop after them both.

---

Back at the house Holly usher Genki into the kitchen, she spotted Granity and caught her attention.

"Can you heat up some water? I need to work on Genki's arm again…" Granity looked worried now but nodded. She began heating some up for use and Holly disappeared to get some bandages. Tiger spoke first,

"You OK kid?"

"My wound seems to be oozing again… she's worried about it." They all could see his bandage was soaked through.

"She has every right to be." Granity spoke bringing the water to the table. "It wasn't oozing this bad before."

"Have you ever heard of the phrase 'it'll get worse before it gets better'?"

"I have." she nodded,

"I think this is one of those cases. Oozing can mean many things, it is a bi-product of my body trying to cleanse the wound and heal it. Yes it could mean an infection or it could mean there is dead flesh it is trying to eliminate." Holly walked back in about the time he answered them,

"If there is dead flesh it needs to be removed…"

"Probably, though on a wound like this it wouldn't be easy to do so… with conventional means. I will talk to my doctor and see what he thinks." Yosho took a seat at the end of the table as Holly moved a chair to where Genki was. She slowly unwrapped the wound, this time it wasn't stuck at least. Those who hadn't seen his wound before were caught off guard by it's size and how it looked. Holly took her time cleansing the wound this time, Genki gritted his teeth as he dealt with the pain. Granity knew he was in extreme pain, she could feel it. Mocchi seemed to sense it as well, he was looking very worried. Yosho watched as Holly carefully dealt with the young man's wound. * This must be why she is always wanting to visit. She is worried about his arm… I never thought it was this bad. That is a nasty burn he received and it's going to take her time to cleanse it properly. I hope his doctor can help him. * After Holly had thoroughly cleansed his wound she gently dried it. While Genki recovered Holly grabbed the salve from her bag and brought it over. She sighed, she knew this would hurt him. Granity had moved over by him now, taking his hand she nodded to Holly who returned the nod. As she applied the salve Genki let loose a strangled yelp of pain followed by a hiss. His grip on Granity tightened, though he tired not to hurt her. She gently rubbed his shoulder with her other hand hoping to provide some comfort. After Holly had wrapped his wound it took Genki several minutes to recover when he did he looked exhausted.

"You alright?" Granity asked,

"Yeah… just give me a minute." Mocchi come over and placed a hand on his leg. Genki looked down seeing his monster looking very worried. "I'll be alright Mocchi." Mocchi hopped into his lap and he held him close with one arm, letting the young monster cuddle with him. Mocchi often cuddled with him as a form of comfort, and it was comfortable for both of them. Yosho could see the exhausting in him, * Perhaps I should wait. He is already exhausted… I hadn't realized how bad his wound truly was until now. * Holly made Genki some tea with honey in it, she touched his shoulder gently. He glanced her way as she sat the cup down.

"Drink some of this, it should help you recover." He smiled and nodded, Mocchi shifted so Genki could drink his tea but remained in his lap. Though he hated sweet tea he accepted it for the time being, he knew he needed something. After a few more minutes Hare decided to start some conversation,

"So… did things go alright with Suezo?" Suezo had gone upstairs after seeing Genki's wound, he felt bad for the young man and realized now that Holly would be making frequent jumps until that wound was healed. Holly glanced to the rabbit monster and nodded,

"Yes… we worked through a lot of things. He shouldn't be causing anymore issues. Though we do have a lot of… healing to do at this point." Hare nodded, he seemed happy with that news,

"Thank Phoenix. I thought I might have to electrocute him if he insulted us one more time." Granity commented with a smirk, Genki chuckled at her comment.

"I doubt he will apologize to you directly Granity, he is scared of you, but he did apologize to both of us. I believe he now understands that most of his comments were unfounded and that he was misunderstanding things. He was extremely jealous, that's why he was lashing out." Genki's voice was soft and even as he rested against his chair.

"Why was he jealous?" Tiger asked, tilting his head in confusion. Holly sighed,

"He was jealous because my bond with you and Granity is much stronger then my bond with him right now. I think he forgot that the bond is about trust."

"Seriously?" Tiger sounded annoyed now, he snorted when Holly nodded yes. Granity rolled her eyes looking just as annoyed. Yosho had noticed that his daughter seemed more relaxed now, even if he could see that she had been crying.

"Hey Genki?"

"Yes Hare?"

"Are you still willing to… date Holly?" Holly literally face palmed as Genki looked over at him with a raised brow, "What?" Genki could see the others wanted to know as well.

"Hare it's not as simple as that. If you asking if I still love her, then yes. That has never changed despite everything that has happened. We have a lot that we need to work through before we can even consider dating at this point."

"You mean so you can trust her again?" Hare continued to probe,

"Not just that Hare, yes the trust is a big issue but we also need to assess if we can make the double world thing work. We will both have to come to an agreement on that."

"It can't be that bad…"

"Hare remember the drivers license I told you about?"

"Yeah what of it?"

"All citizens have a card for identification in my country, it is required by law. Though it doesn't have to be a drivers license specifically."

"You can get one for her right?" Genki sighed,

"It's doable yes, through immigration. Though that will get tricky since my world is completely unaware of your worlds existence. I know a few people who can help me with that but it will still be a complicated mess." He wasn't going to go into the fact that it would never be 'legal' as it were. They would have to lie to make it happen.

"They are that anal about tracking people?" Tiger bluntly asked,

"Yes, especially on the immigration side. I told you before they keep track of everyone, partial for tax purposes." He could see the wolf monster mulling that over, "It's not impossible, its just difficult due to government nonsense. Believe me the government doesn't know how to do 'simple', it's like that word doesn't exist in their vocabulary." He chuckled, both Holly and Granity looked unsure of what to make of that. Granity smiled, * Well he said it wasn't impossible… they will have to fight for it I guess. * She could see Holly wanted to ask more questions but didn't want to do it with the others around. Genki could see it as well, * I will tell her everything later… once we start talking things over. * Yosho could tell the young man was exhausted, he decided to speak to him now and ask if he was still up for a talk.

"Genki, I can see you are tired. We can postpone our conversation if needed." Genki glanced his way,

"I can manage a quick conversation." Holy took his empty cup and refilled it for him. He smiled to her gently understanding as he waited for her father response.

"As long as you are sure, I don't want to over tax you."

"I'm sure." He drank his tea and Yosho motioned or him to follow him. Genki nodded, gently he placed Mocchi in Holly's lap. He was worried still, "I'll be alright Mocchi. I'll be back soon OK?" the young monster nodded and Genki followed the older man outside to speak in private.

"Wonder what Yosho wants to talk to him about?" Hare pondered,

"If I had to guess, probably the whole sexual behavior stuff Suezo was spouting off about. He probably wants to know what was really going on with that." Granity commented as she took a cup of tea from Holly. Holly sighed,

"It could be that… though he said he wouldn't interrogate him."

"True but he might ask about it." Tiger commented, "Still I hope his doctor can do something about that wound of his." Holly nodded,

"I will make sure he doesn't forget to see his doctor. I know he gets really busy." Granity nodded,

"He does… he works really long hours sometimes. Though his boss might notice too and bug him if it keeps oozing that way."

"So what have you learned of his world?" Hare probed now intrigued, Granity chuckled and took a seat at the table. She would leave out anything she didn't fully understand but explain what she could. Holly too settled in to listen as she spoke of the world away from their own.

AAN: OK kinda an awkward ending there but I needed to stop somewhere… this was nearly 40 pages. More Holly/Genki scenes next chapter. Hope you all enjoyed this one.