Title: & Bunny – chapter ten
Author/Artist: Cheza-chan
Pairing/Characters: Kaburagi Kotetsu/Barnaby Brooks Jr.
Rating: PG-15 (overall R)
Genre: Alternate Timeline; science-fiction; superheroes.
Disclaimer: I do not own the characters, and I definitely don't own the sponsors that they wear.
Summary/Notes:Taking Ben's advice, Kotetsu decides to separate himself from Hero TV and the Heroes of Sternbild (deviated from the original storyline after ep. 16).


Barnaby felt himself grow irritated as he stared at Kotetsu's wide grin. He'd shown up, just as it had been asked of him.

"Yo, Bunny!" The brunet lifted two fingers in mock salute. "It's been a while, hasn't it?" Barnaby turned away without saying anything, heading back into the apartment. Kotetsu forced his smile to remain in place as he followed the young man; the door closed automatically behind him.

Barnaby stopped before they reached the center of the main room, spinning around to face Kotetsu, arms crossed over his chest. "If you plan to feed me excuses, then we can just end this right here. Frankly, I'm tired of everyone—"

"I'm losing my abilities."

"—calling me… childish…" Barnaby's arms fell to his side. His expression of shock was masked over with a glare. "What are you—what do you mean? That's not possible, is it?" Kotetsu showed him a painful smile and the blond felt everything fall into place, settling heavily in the pit of his stomach.

Kotetsu saw the realization in the emerald eyes and tried to lighten the heavy atmosphere with a laugh, waving a hand to dismiss it all. "It's not as bad as it seems! In fact… after thinking things over, maybe I should come back, to work, that is. Saito-san's suit does most of the work anyway." Kotetsu tucked a hand behind his head, laughing at his own expense.

"I'm sure… something can be done… to fix it!" Barnaby fisted his hands at his sides, trying desperately to keep his emotions in check. "And you just gave up and accepted it… I thought we were over this, Kotetsu-san. I thought we were partners…"

Kotetsu reached out, cupping the back of Barnaby's neck, drawing him forward. He tucked the blond's head against his shoulder, focusing on the flower design that decorated a segment of the otherwise naked walls. "I did it because you are my partner, and you deserve someone better."

"There's no one that can compare to you."

The older man laughed, ducking his head so his chin rested atop Barnaby's bowed head. "That's a loaded statement. I destroy more than I'm worth, so, of course, no one can compare to me."

"Stop devaluing yourself!" Barnaby struggled to free himself from Kotetsu's hold, glaring at the other man.

Kotetsu's eyes widened at the shimmer in the green eyes ahead of him. Be it tears of frustration, or something else, they were evidence that the young man truly cared for him. Or so he told himself. Kotetsu shook his head.

"Just come back," Barnaby rasped, slowly feeling his control slip away. "If we talk to Maverick-san, we can clear this up. I'm sure of it."

"I've been kidnapped, remember?" Kotetsu laughed, reminding the other of last night's press conference. He moved toward the single, lounge-like chair of the whole room, taking a seat. His hand bumped the computer there, bringing the wall monitor to life. It was decorated with an odd mixture of articles on Jake Martinez and themselves. Kotetsu, sitting as straight as the chair would allow, took it upon himself to sift through the confusion, moving aside the windows that headlined praises of their heroic feats. He wanted to understand why Barnaby was still researching the deceased NEXT.

"I sent you home, that day you came to collect your daughter." Barnaby wanted to ask how she was doing, giving everything that was unfolding, but he didn't. His hand covered Kotetsu's, temporarily controlling his movements.

Kotetsu looked away and up to the blond's face. He followed the hard glare to the monitor, watching as all the windows were tucked out of sight, thanks to their combined efforts. Barnaby's hand left his and his fingers curled inward atop the small table.

"Kriem-san died shortly after waking from her coma." Barnaby glanced down at the occupant of the single chair, his expression, cold, distant, and guarded as Kotetsu gaped up at him. "But not before divulging information. She told me that Jake didn't murder my parents."

Kotetsu shot out of the seat, hands gripping the younger man's shoulders. "Is that true? Bunny…" His mouth worked, but only fractured sounds came out. His brain was unable to form a coherent reply.

"I don't know what's true anymore, Kotetsu-san." Kotetsu felt Barnaby shift beneath his touch, but not in an attempt to escape. Barnaby reached back down to the table, playing with the controls. The lighting of the room changed; the reason: a muted and paused video shot of Jake Martinez, during his time of fame when he challenged them all. "The one thing I remembered, the one thing I thought to be true… doesn't even exist."

Kotetsu studied the still shot and his narrowed eyes widened. The tattoo. Jake Martinez did nothave a tattoo on the back of his right hand.

"Who killed my parents, Kotetsu-san…?"

I hope the past tortures you for the rest of your life!

Barnaby released a shuddering breath, allowing himself to be embraced. He stared blankly at the wall monitor, at the ghost that haunted his dreams, turning them into nightmares. Another ghost whispered to him, but he wasn't sleeping. Was this reality? Barnaby lifted a hand, meekly curling his fingers into the material of Kotetsu's shirt. The body pressed against his was solid; very real.

Kotetsu tightened his arms around the younger HERO, a crease marring his forehead as he gritted his teeth. "We'll figure it all out, Bunny… together. I promise!" Barnaby closed his eyes, a soft sound of agreement escaping him.

x x x

Though they had accomplished nothing by nightfall, Kotetsu left after promising to take Barnaby out the next day.

"It's the season again, we can retrace your steps… see if it triggers something that sets your memory straight!"

A weight felt as though it had been lifted from his chest, and he drove back to the Bronze Stage with a smile on his face. It was Barnaby's first night, in weeks, where he was able to sleep peacefully.


Sternbild's criminals didn't believe in sitting still for them to enjoy a day of peace; a day of remembrance. While he waited for the runaway armored truck to be detained, Kotetsu paid a visit to Apollon Media. Luckily for him, Maverick was in for the day, so a visit was in order.

The older, bespectacled man smiled at Kotetsu, indicating for him to take a seat on the only couch in the office. Maverick placed a cup of coffee on the table in front of him a few moments later, circling around the table to take a seat on the lone ottoman. He noticed Kotetsu's troubled stare and followed it back to the stand where he'd brewed the coffee. Maverick stood, retrieving the small pitcher of cream, and brought it back to the table.

Kotetsu stirred his coffee after adding the cream, lifting it to his lips. He took a sip, lowering the cup to grin sheepishly at the other man. "I apologize, for everything—for dropping in on you without making any appointments. You're a very busy man!"

"Don't concern yourself over something like that," Maverick said dismissively. "I'm always here to help in any way that I can."

Kotetsu placed the cup back onto the saucer, sighing deeply. "I was wondering… if it's possible… to get my job back as Wild Tiger." His hands became animated as he continued, gesturing wildly. "I know I was given the severance pay, but I haven't touched it! It can be transferred back, or you could even put a lock on my account!" Kotetsu grinned. "Or just go ahead and give it to Judge Petrov."

Maverick chuckled, setting his own cup down. "I was a bit worried about your sudden decision to quit, but I respected your wishes. If it is your desire to return, then so it shall be."

Kotetsu's eyes widened, his face lighting up, and he sat forward, hands pressed against his knees. "Really?! I mean… I have to be found and rescued, but… I can return, as Wild Tiger?"

Maverick smiled, nodding slowly. "We'll have you 'rescued' within the week."

"Thank you!" Kotetsu stood, extending his arm over the table, forcing the older man to do the same. They shook hands, sealing their verbal contract. "I am indebted to you, Maverick-san. I can't guarantee anything, but I'll try to be a better partner to Barnaby." Kotetsu grinned, tucking his free hand behind his head. "Thank you, again. Ha. I sound like Sky High. I'll go tell Bu—Barnaby the news." He bowed out of respect before excusing himself and rushing out of the office.

Rather than resume sitting, Maverick walked to his desk. He circled around it, facing the large window of his office. Slipping a hand into the pocket of his slacks, he removed his phone.

X x X x X

It was a quick trip to the Justice Tower, and Kotetsu sat, watching the remainder of the chase and capture as he waited. He glared at Rock Bison's image as it appeared on screen. Along with Sky High, both had captured the criminals. Kotetsu reminded himself that everyone would be coming back here before dispersing with their personal lives, so he could confront his so-called best friend about his behavior.

Dragon Kid was the first to arrive. Her face lit up after spotting Kotetsu, and she rushed to where he sat. Staff held behind her with both hands, the young NEXT leaned forward into the personal space of the man that had stood to greet her. "Are you back, Tiger-san—for good?"

"Yeah," Kotetsu laughed sheepishly.

Dragon Kid giggled, "I knew you couldn't stay away."

"You're cute even without the pin." Kotetsu called it as he saw it; her excitement and happiness caused her eyes to sparkle, and her cheeks were flushed. Dragon Kid blushed deeper, shaking her head, before rushing away to get cleaned up and to change.

Fire Emblem arrived next. "Tiger!" he exclaimed, clasping his hands. He separated them, spreading his arms wide. Kotetsu saw it as an invitation and crossed the room to the Fire manipulator. He smiled, patting the taller man on the back as he was enveloped in an intimate embrace. Thanks to the flamboyant man dragging him away so they could catch up, Kotetsu missed Antonio's return to the Tower. When Nathan finally set him free, it was another ten minutes before he found the unlikely duo in the training room.

After everything he felt towards his friend, Kotetsu couldn't bring himself to interrupt their conversation. From what he could see—he made sure he couldn't be seen through the glass entrance—Keith appeared to be uncomfortable. With a sigh, the Veteran Hero backed away from the glass doors, thankful that he hadn't set off the sensors to open the door. Now it was time to begin his search for Barnaby. Kotetsu found him, still in the bodysuit, in the locker room. "Bunny…"

The blond head snapped up, revealing the haggard face the suit's mask hid from HeroTV's cameras. "Kotetsu-san." Barnaby mumbled a soft apology, running his fingers through his hair. "We had… plans, didn't we? I'll change."

"We don't have to—"

"No," Barnaby interrupted, shaking his head.

Kotetsu took a seat on the bench beside the blond, placing a gentle hand to his shoulder. "Is this what you want?"

"I want the nightmare to end," Barnaby choked out.

Kotetsu turned at an angle so he could reach Barnaby's other shoulder. Barnaby allowed himself to be shifted and repositioned until his head was lying on Kotetsu's shoulder. How long would he have this? How long would this warmth make him feel at ease?

He's already left you once before, who's to say he won't leave again?

Barnaby frowned, freeing himself, and stood with his back facing the brunet. "Wait outside. I'll be out in a few."

His comfort spurned, Kotetsu did what was asked of him. True to his word, Barnaby joined him in the hallway, impeccable as always, except for the haunted look on his face. Kotetsu smiled reassuringly, patting the blond on the shoulder. "Let's make this day a success!"

X x X x X

Dark Star was on her fifth juice box. The wig was irritating, but Radboud had told her it was a necessity.

"They'll recognize you in an instant," he'd huffed at her.

She refused to change her attire—the colors, to be more specific—to match the season, but had changed from the skirt to a pair of black skinny jeans, tucked into boots that were adorned with buckles. Christmas was for Evelyn. The redhead had switched the green for red; a little red dress, with a white shawl wrapped around her shoulders, sheer stockings, and her feet were tucked into black heels.

Dark Star didn't see why she was so dressed up, but who was she to deny the girl. She sucked on the straw until it began making obscene noises in the empty box, then tossed it into the nearby trash bin. "Bored," she groaned, stressing out the word.

Evelyn smiled faintly, her eyes glued to the grand skating rink. She wanted to go out onto it, but they were here doing a job. Maybe she could convince Radboud to bring her back so they could enjoy a spin. Evelyn shook her head, banishing the thought.

Dark Star grinned, leaning forward where she was propped against the rink's wall. The blonde bangs of her wig were nearly trimmed to allow for easy viewing. Their prey had climbed onto one of the children's 'transport' toys, a mobile tiger. "Ironic," she laughed. He was on the phone, but his partner had walked up, and looked to be chastising him. "They're so cute."

Evelyn glanced her way, mildly surprised. "Barnaby-san?"

"No!" Dark Star spat, drawing a few gazes. "Not by himself anyway…" Her nose remained turned up as though the air held a foul stench. "Their interaction," she mumbled, refusing to admit she even had a modicum of 'like' for the King of Heroes. "Without Tiger… he's nothing."

The redhead looked back out across the rink, and to the other side. She couldn't afford to let her thoughts wander, and so she was a bit relieved when the 'signal' finally came for them to act; Barnaby receives a phone call.

Dark Star straightened up, rolling her shoulders to work out the kinks. She turned, glowering at Evelyn, who stared back almost blankly. She shook her head, shook out her hands in an attempt to loosen her fingers, and leapt over the wall and onto the rink. It was easy, gliding along without skates, and she avoided those who weren't able to avoid her, so there were no collisions. She made it to the other side without fail, and was glad to see that Barnaby had put some distance between himself and his partner. With a soft grunt, she leapt the second wall, and brought her acting skills to the surface. The King of Heroes was her target, and it would take a great deal of self-control to make this work.

Tossing the borrowed blonde hair over her shoulder, Dark Star exhaled deeply before letting a wide grin split her face. It wasn't the usual kind and felt foreign. She rushed up to the Hero, careful not to startle him, and giggled excitedly. "Barnaby Brooks Jr.?" Dark Star covered her mouth, bouncing on the balls of her feet. She dropped her hands. "Wow… it's really you. I'm sorry. You're probably…" She waved her hands in the air, bringing them back to clasp them in front of herself.

Barnaby shot her a quick smile, and she gritted her teeth to maintain hers. He turned away, apologizing to his caller, and then gave her his full attention after tucking his phone away.

"I'm sorry," Dark Star whispered, her smile shy.

Barnaby shook his head, oozing charm as he returned her smile. "I wanted to try and enjoy the season before it passed." A lie.

"Do you…?" She worried her bottom lip between her teeth, avoiding his curious stare. "I don't want to draw attention to you, but… can we…?" Dark Star turned away and Barnaby followed her gaze. His smile was bittersweet as the memory of being here with Maverick, taking a picture—like his fan was suggesting they do—resurfaced. "Sorry for being so forward," Dark Star rushed out in one soft whisper, ducking her head. The blonde hair fell forward, acting as a curtain that hid her face.

"No. Your request is simple and fair. We can take a picture together."

Dark Star's head snapped up, the borrowed hair flying out of her face, and she showed him her brightest smile of appreciation. Barnaby searched for Kotetsu, to let him know what would be taking place. The older man was still seated on the now immobile tiger, deep in conversation with whomever was on the receiving end of the call. He couldn't help but stare as Kotetsu laughed, drawn in by the sound. He shook his head, drawing himself back to his fan.

Dark Star smiled up at him, mentally smirking to herself. 'Oh? Eyes for the Tiger? You're competition for me now.' With a giggle, she followed him as he led the way.

The minute Barnaby stopped worrying about his partner, it was Evelyn's turn. The flower of the oleander plant was tucked behind her ear; the leaves had been burned to a fine dust and were clenched tightly in her hand. She just needed to get close enough. Uncurling her fingers, she sidestepped the toy, letting the momentum of her movement carry the plant remains on the slight wind that had been caused.

Kotetsu coughed, frowning as he cleared his throat.

Evelyn disappeared as a couple walked by, and Kotetsu returned to his conversation.

x x x

Dark Star groaned loudly, tossing the wig and the developed picture into the backseat of the car. "That was… ugh, my soul. How long?"

"As NEXTS, our body's immune systems are somewhat stronger than normal people's. I grew that particular plant myself, so it was more potent than the normal oleander. He should begin showing signs by this evening, if not sooner." Evelyn slipped into the passenger's seat after she had spoken.

Dark Star grinned, combing her fingers through her hair. "And I will have a new toy to play with." Chuckling darkly, she slipped in behind the wheel.

X x X x X

Kotetsu was a bit perplexed at why more than half of his fried rice remained on his plate an hour after he'd cooked it. He was not one for wasting food, so the leftovers were store away in the refrigerator. With a deep sigh, he stared over the counter at the television on the other side of the room. He would have enjoyed channel surfing in hopes of finding something interesting, but he suddenly felt like curling up in bed. Researching with Barnaby had obviously worn him out, a fact he was being reminded of now.

With another sigh, the brunet left the kitchen alcove, turning off the lights as he made his way to the staircase. After taking the first two steps up, a bout of dizziness washed over him so hard, he stumbled back down to stand flat on the floor, fingers tangled in his hair as he clutched his head. The nausea that had prevented him from finishing his dinner returned, with a vengeance.

Kotetsu let his back hit the wall, using it as support as he slid to the floor. It was becoming extremely difficult to breathe, but he panted harshly, trying to keep air in his lungs. His vision blurred, blacking out for several moments, before returning. Kotetsu squinted, brow furrowing as he tried to figure out what was wrong with his surroundings. Everything seemed brighter. 'I turned off…' Kotetsu coughed and his eyes widened as he remembered he'd done the same thing at the rink.

"I think… out."

There was someone in his home! Kotetsu scrabbled uselessly at the wall, searching for some form of purchase so he could return to his feet.

"Ah… don't… Tiger."

Kotetsu shook his head, but that made everything worse, and he slumped back against the wall.

Dark Star crouched in front of the panting figure, poking him in the forehead, tilting his head back. "Look at me," she whispered. Slowly, Kotetsu's eyes fluttered open, half-lidded. "Can you see me?"

The golden irises almost disappeared as Kotetsu squinted. Everything adjusted sharply, becoming crystal clear, and the last thing he saw was Dark Star's smirking face before everything went black.

Dark Star chuckled when the dark head lolled to the side. "You're being rescued, Wild Tiger."

X

Across town, in a secured room of Apollon Media, a small group of individuals were gathered for a celebration of Wild Tiger's "rescue".


A/N: I'm still going strong! …and I hope I'm going in the right direction... Nothing seemed out of place in the chapter—didn't set me off into trying to redo it 9001 times, so… I checked for errors, tried to toss it off on my "editor"—she didn't see anything wrong with what she could read; computer troubles—and now it's being posted. I do have a plan… *poker face*

Oleander – This shrub or small tree grows to about 9 meters (27 feet), with alternate, very straight, dark green leaves. Its flowers may be white, yellow, red, pink, or intermediate colors. The symptoms experienced from the ingestion of this plant are horrific and terrifying. These include nausea, stomach pain, dizziness, drowsiness, poor circulation to extremities, seizures, tremors, collapse, slowed pulse, irregular heartbeat, pupil dilation, bloody diarrhea, coma, death and suicidal depression.