*** Okay, we all should know the drill by now... Right? This is a Yaoi story, it is graphic, contains mature themes and language. WARNING!! This chapter will deal with the aftermath of Rape. If that sort of thing bothers you, then don’t read. If you’re not old enough to watch this stuff in a movie, then ya shouldn’t be reading this! I don’t own the Troopers, so don’t sue me. I’m broke! ***

Chapter Three

“Hey, there they are!” Shu, Ryo and Nasuti hurried towards the main waiting area, still reeling from the shock of it all, anxious to find out the status of their friend.

Shin, his wife Lorelei, and Touma had been asked to wait there while Seiji’s parents and grandfather had been escorted up to the surgical floor to wait for any word on their son. Touma had desperately wanted to go up with them but decided against it when the elder Date had shown up. Seiji’s grandfather still did not know that his grandson was gay, nor was he aware that Touma was more then a friend to Seiji. Now wasn’t the time for any of that, all that truly mattered to Touma at the moment, was Seiji.

“How’s Seiji?” Ryo’s eyes were still red from crying. ~He and Nasuti had been the ones who had found Seiji beaten and bloodied, lying face down in the woods. Their armor orbs had led Ryo to him and not a moment too soon. Both were mildly shocked to find Seiji still alive, though just barely, given the condition he was in.~

Ryo just couldn’t get the image of Seiji’s face out of his mind. He had been beaten so badly it had taken Ryo several long seconds to realize it was he. ~All Ryo could do was cradle Seiji in his arms as his tears flowed down his cheeks, begging him to hang on. The wait for the ambulance to arrive seemed like an eternity. ~

“He’s in surgery. They say his heart stopped twice on the way here. That’s all we know at the moment. His parents and grandfather are up on the surgical floor.” Shin’s voice cracked. “We saw them bring Seiji in, God Ryo he looked awful.” His eyes still held the remnants of the tears that had been flowing since they had arrived.

“Oh dear God.” Nasuti exclaimed and Ryo immediately pulled his wife closer to him, burying her head in his shoulder she wept. Nasuti just couldn’t believe that one of the guys could be hurt that badly. They had battled a whole Dynasty, Evil Mashos, Arago and more yet none of them received injuries so severe as to put them at death‘s door. No, it took a mortal to bring one of them down and that both terrified and angered her.

“Hey, Seiji is strong; he’ll pull through this.” Ryo rubbed her back and kissed the top of her head. He was trying to put on a brave front but was failing miserably as his own tears came streaming down his cheeks. Seiji was his friend and it pissed him off that someone had hurt him this badly.

Upon seeing Seiji and the injuries, Ryo had made a silent vow to find those responsible and to make them pay for what they had done. None of the guys would try too hard to stop him, he was certain of that. Shin would try the most but even he had his limits, and Ryo was no stranger to just how angry the bearer of Torrent could get.

Nasuti had seen the anger blazing in Ryo’s eyes as they had waited for the ambulance and had spent the whole ride there making him promise not to seek revenge.

He promised her... For now.

“I’m worried about Touma.” Shin whispered. “He hasn’t said a word since we got here. He just sits there staring out the window.” Giving the archer a quick glance. “I know he’s in shock but not even Lorelei has been able to get through to him.”

That statement shook Ryo a bit. Lorelei was one of the few people, besides Seiji, who could get Touma talking, even when he didn’t want to. “That’s not good. Man why is this happening?” Ryo felt the tears fill his eyes as he stared at Touma.

“I’ll try and talk to him.” Nasuti said as she wiped at her own tears. Composing herself she walked slowly over to where Touma was. He looked so lost to her as he sat there just staring into the night sky.

“Touma?” She put her hand on his shoulder. She gasped slightly as she moved to stand in front of him. The once vibrant midnight blue eyes that held so much life were now dull and listless. “Touma look at me.” She said softly.

“Nasuti?” His voice sounded distant as his eyes met hers. His mind had shut down the moment he caught site of Seiji as he was wheeled into the emergency room.

~ Touma, Shin, Lorelei and Seiji’s dad had gotten there a few minutes before the ambulance had arrived. Touma insisted on waiting at the doors until Seiji had been brought in even though Seiji‘s dad tried to get him away. Mr. Date already knew that his son was in bad shape and he wanted to spare them from further grief. ~

~ When Touma caught sight of Seiji’s bloodied face he collapsed. “OH GOD NO!” He had screamed. “Seiji, oh gods Seiji.” Shin too burst into tears shocked at the almost unrecognizable swordsman’s face. Mr. Date helped both men into the waiting area. It was at that moment that he finally realized just how much his son was loved by this tight circle of friends ~

Nasuti did the only thing she felt she could do, she pulled Touma into her arms and held him. At first he resisted but then welcomed the embrace as the wall broke and his deepest emotions flowed forth. “Oh Gods Nasuti! I’m so scared, he’s hurt so badly. I can’t lose him, I just can’t!” He sobbed into her shoulder. He cried harder then he ever thought he could, the pain in his heart was enormous.

“Shhhh, it’s going to be okay. Seiji is a fighter; he’ll pull through this. We won’t lose him.” She tried her best to comfort him as her own fears set in.

“I love him so much. Seiji is everything to me. I keep seeing his bloodied face and it hurts to think of all the pain he’s going through. I...” Touma cried out. Shu caught him just as he collapsed.

“Let’s get you to a chair buddy.” Shu’s voice cracked with emotion. He hated seeing any of his friends in pain and seeing Touma like this was tearing at his heart. Anger also flowed through him and he knew that this horrendous act would not go unpunished.

Shu helped Touma to a seat as Lorelei took the one next to Touma with Nasuti on the other side of him. Ryo, Shin and Shu gathered around him as well.

Gently taking his hand, Lorelei turned so she could meet his eyes as her own filled with tears. “Touma! Listen to me. You can’t keep doing this to yourself. I know you’re hurting, we all are.” She reached out to touch his cheek. “Seiji is going to need you but if you make yourself sick, you won’t do him any good.”

Touma nodded. He knew she was right, but still it didn’t wash away the fears building inside him. He was scared to tell them that he hadn’t been able to link with Seiji since this afternoon. It was as though Seiji had purposely cut him off and that had Touma feeling so lost and empty.

One minute Touma was entering Seiji’s mind, then everything went dead. Right before it happened he heard Seiji ask for him to forgive him. Forgive you for what Seiji? For being over powered? For not staying home? What dammit? All he did know was that Seiji was scared and in pain.

“Lorelei is right. We all have to remain strong; we have to believe he’ll be okay.” Nasuti spoke softly. “Seiji has never been one to just give up, and neither must you. Got that mister?” She smiled when Touma’s eyes gave off that familiar spark, even if it did only last for a second.

“I know guys, I really do. It’s just that I love Seiji more then life itself.” He drew his knees to his chest and rocked on the chair. “I just don’t know what I’ll do if he doesn’t live. Oh GOD I don’t want to be alone anymore. I don‘t think I could go on living without him. I wouldn‘t want to.” Touma’s whole body shook with the force of his sobs. Five individuals gathered around their friend, doing their best to comfort him.

“You’ll never be alone, Touma.” Ryo squatted down in front of him. “We promise.” Ryo cried as each one of them offered their promise to always be there for Touma and for each other. The bond that had formed during those early years was now stronger then ever before. Ryo got the feeling that Touma was going to need their strength and the security of that bond.

******************************************

Mr. Date nervously paced the floor of the waiting room he and his wife had been led to. Seiji’s grandfather sat with his daughter trying his best to comfort her. Mr. Date watched them. He knew there was one person missing from this setting, but now was not the time or the place to reveal such secrets. He wasn‘t too happy with Seiji‘s decision to keep his grandfather in the dark about his lifestyle, but he understood his son‘s reasons. The Elder Date was set in his ways, tradition was very important to the man. Seiji’s grandfather still expected his grandson to carry on the Date name and to do so meant finding a wife and having an heir. Seiji didn’t have the heart to spoil that, at least not yet.

“Mr. and Mrs. Date?” Mr. Date jumped at the calling of his name. Dr. Kobe stood in the doorway looking quite exhausted. Taking a deep breath he walked over to them and sat down.

“How is he? How’s our son?” Mrs. Date sobbed. She reached out to take her husbands hand.

“He’s a very lucky man, that’s for sure. It was touch and go there for awhile, but your son is a fighter.” The Dr. sighed. “He’s not out of the woods yet. The next twenty-four to forty-eight hours will be the most critical. What helps is that your son was in great physical shape to begin with.”

He waited for that to sink in before continuing. “As you may have heard, when he arrived he was having trouble breathing. That was due to a broken rib that punctured a lung causing it to collapse. The trauma team inserted a chest tube immediately, that helped to relieve the pressure and inflate the lung.”

“Dr, I saw his face when they brought him in. How bad?” Mr. Date asked, more worried about head trauma then facial scarring.

“There’s a great deal of bruising plus several lacerations. He also had both cheekbones cracked, but no real damage to the eye area. His jaw received a hairline fracture but that‘ll mend on it‘s own. His nose was broken and he does have a concussion with some slight swelling in the brain. That‘s normal though, we‘ll keep that closely monitored.” He paused then went on. “Our biggest concern are the internal injuries, they were more extensive then we originally thought.”

“How bad are they? Dr I do not take kindly to half-truths so be honest and straightforward.” The elder Date spoke up.

“Okay” Dr Kobe swallowed hard. Seiji had spoken about his grandfather many times so Doctor Kobe was prepared, though this man was still intimidating. “He suffered lacerations to his liver and spleen, It was touch and go for awhile but we did manage to repair the damage and stop the bleeding. We will have to watch him for infections, which could mean more surgery to clean out the area.” He paused again not for them, but for himself. It was never easy doing this, and it was even harder when it was a colleague.

“His kidneys suffered quite a bit of trauma so in order to give them time to heal; we are placing him on a dialysis machine temporarily. I know that sounds bad, but the machine will help speed up the recovery.” Looking to the floor he tried to prepare himself for what was next. This was the one thing he was dreading but they had every right to know. Seiji was going to need his family’s support to help him deal with what had happened to him. Doctor Kobe hoped that they could handle it and not do what most do... Pretend it didn’t happen.

“Dr Kobe, as a parent this is not an easy thing for me to ask, but as a police officer I have to anyway.” Mr. Date spoke up. “Was my son raped?” He heard his wife gasp as she cried out. “I’m sorry honey, but we have to know.” She nodded and squeezed his hand tightly. All three turned to the doctor for a reply.

“I’m sorry...” He started, he was a little relieved that the family brought the subject up first. “I wish I could answer the other way, but I can’t. Yes he was raped, quite brutally in fact. His injuries both external and internal are massive. I know this is hard for you to hear and I apologize but I suspect that foreign objects were used on him during the rape.” He waited until he was sure they had grasped what had just been said.

“The good news is he won’t need any type of external apparatus for bodily functions. Dr Morimoto made sure of that; he spent a great deal of time repairing the damage. He didn’t think Dr Date could have accepted it, if it had gone the other way.”

Their sobs filled the tiny room and Kobe wished like hell that he could have spared them from this. He was still having trouble dealing with it himself. Never had he seen so much damage to a body from a rape. The pain Seiji endured had to have been overwhelming, there was no doubt about it.

Mr. Date hugged his wife as she wept; the doctor’s words were still ringing in his ears. The bastards, I’ll get them for doing this to my son. His eyes blazed as he got a brief image of his son and the agony he had to go through. I’m so sorry my son, forgive me for not protecting you. Tears flowed down his face and his heart cried out to his child.

“Dr Kobe, can we see him? Please?” Mrs. Date turned to look at him, the hurt evident in her eyes. It was bad enough hearing that her only son had been beaten to within an inch of his life, but then to hear that he’d also been violently raped, well it was more then she was willing to bear. She was a strong woman, but this was her baby boy, and so she wept... for him. His pain was her pain, she was his mother and he her son.

“Yes, by all means. He’s in ICU so please keep it brief. I must warn you that your son’s appearance will be frightening but the injuries, machines and tubes are only temporary. You’ll have to look past all that, he needs your love, support and strength if he’s to pull through” Dr Kobe sighed softly.

“We understand and thank you doctor for all you’ve done.” Mrs. Date stood and shook his hand. “Our family will do whatever it takes to bring our son around.”

“Those who know are all praying for Dr Date. He’s a gifted doctor and a great colleague. I myself have assisted him many times and have come away thoroughly impressed.” Dr Kobe stated. “I know that as the word gets around many more staff members will be adding their prayers as well.”

“Doctor, it may be in Seiji’s best interest if certain things are kept quiet though. We are a prideful family and my grandson wouldn’t want his honor compromised.” The Elder Date stood and headed towards the door. “If there’s nothing further Doctor, I would like to see my grandson now.”

“Uh sure, nurse Kaga will show you the way.” Dr Kobe motioned for the nurse.

“You two go on ahead, I’ll be there in a minute. I need to get a little more information from Dr Kobe for the police report.” Mr. Date told them.

“Mrs. Date nodded and left with her father. Mr. date turned to Dr Kobe once he was sure they were out of earshot. “Did he regain consciousness at all?” He asked.

“Yes, but only briefly. Seiji insisted that only his parents and grandfather be told exactly what had happened to him. In fact we had to promise him not to say anything within this hospital.” Doctor Kobe explained. “He was very adamant that no one else should know about the rape. This is a natural response from most victims; they’re embarrassed and ashamed. We will have a therapist come in and talk to him as soon as he’s stronger.”

“Was he able to tell you anything about the attack?” Mr. Date asked. He really didn’t want to know the details, having handled enough rape cases to know they can be horrific.

“Just that there were five men and that he had been drugged.” Kobe shivered. “We did take semen samples as well some blood tests to determine the drugs used on Seiji.”

“Thank you. I want to be notified as soon as you have the results.” Mr. Date instructed.

“Mr. Date, I know so much has already been dumped into your laps but you should be aware that we also did an AIDS test. It’s standard procedure here when surgeries are involved but since Seiji was raped... Well, we thought it best to do the test.” He felt awful having to tell him all this. “Once the men involved are found we can test them and as long as they are all negative there shouldn’t be anything to worry about.”

“It would seem that my son has quite a few hurdles to clear.” He didn’t know what else to say. He hadn’t given it any thought, till now. His mind held that word within its clutches searing it into his brain as he tried to control the rage building inside. My god! AIDS? He could see his son survive this horrible ordeal only to watch him slowly die from its aftermath.

“Mr. Date, I have to ask you this. Is your son involved with anyone at the moment? It’s not an issue now, but she should be careful when near any open wounds Seiji may have.”

“Huh? Yes. My son has a companion. A male companion. I can’t exactly tell him about this when Seiji has asked that no one be told about the rape.” Mr. Date looked up at the doctor hoping for an answer.

Doctor Kobe was momentarily caught off guard by his statement, he would have never guessed that Seiji was gay. If this gets out, there will be a lot of bummed out nurses. “Other then being careful around his wounds, you shouldn’t have to worry.” Kobe finally answered.

“And after that?” Mr. Date questioned. He still was reeling from all he had been told.

“Seiji will have to eventually inform his partner of this before the two engage in any type of sex and that goes for oral sex as well. Hopefully all this will all be for naught if we can test those who raped him and they are HIV negative.” Kobe stood there silently, enough had been said already.

“Thank you for your help Doctor. Would you tell my wife that I’ll join her shortly? Several of Seiji’s friends are waiting down stairs for some news on him and I should let them know something.” Mr. Date knew how hard this would be on Touma, even without being told about the rape. The poor guy had been a mess since this all started.

“I surely will sir. I’m very sorry that this has happened. Seiji is highly respected here. I will personally make sure that certain details are kept private concerning his injuries. Dr Date deserves that much from us.” Dr Kobe took a deep breath, he was tired and right now he just wanted to finish up and go home to his family.

“Thank you Doctor Kobe, you’ve been a tremendous help. He shook the other’s hand and the two men silently parted ways.

Slowly Mr. Date made his way to the others, going over it all in his mind. Trying to figure out just how best to break the news to them without putting them through any more heartache. It was a no win situation, at least he could spare them some of the details, Seiji had seen to that.

*******************************************************

“Man what’s happening up there? Why haven’t we heard anything yet?” Ryo nervously paced around the floor finally walking over to a chair to sit down. He was so tired, they all were. They had been there all night waiting and worrying. Ryo threw his head back and covered his face with his hands. “Somebody tell us something!”

“Hey, I’m sure that as soon as Seiji’s family knows, they’ll come down and tell us. This can’t be easy on them you know.” Shin said as he sat down in the chair beside Ryo handing him a cup of coffee.

“You’re right.” Ryo gladly accepted the offering. “Thanks man, I really need this right now.” Ryo took a sip then set it down.

“It’s not the greatest, but I guess it’ll do.” Shin chuckled slightly as he looked around the room.

Nasuti, Lorelei and Touma were curled up on chairs dozing. He frowned slightly knowing that his wife should be home resting in bed not in some waiting room chair. Forgive me love. Hearing an all too familiar snore brought a smile to his lips. Shu was on the floor fast asleep and looking quite comfortable. Some things never change. Ming must either be a saint, or she owns a good pair of earplugs.

Shin yawned and stretched, the fatigue was getting to him as well. He had tried to get a little sleep right after Touma dozed off but it had eluded him. His mind kept going over something that had occurred hours earlier. Shin had felt Seiji reach out to him through the link. He had briefly felt Seiji’s pain and terror but when Shin tried to reach out to him through the link Seiji cut him off abruptly. Whatever was happening to Seiji at that moment was so traumatic that Seiji felt it necessary to shut his link down. What was it that Seiji was sparing them from? The beating? No there was more; he could feel it. Shin had wanted to ask Ryo if he had felt it too, but didn’t want to upset him farther.

“Hey I’m sure that we’ll find out what exactly happened.” Ryo said. Shin jumped a bit, he hadn’t realized that his link was open and that he was sending out his thoughts. He just wasn’t as good as the others at turning off the link. He was a virtual open book when it came to emotions.

“Sorry about that.” Shin leaned over to Ryo. “Did you feel anything from Seiji yesterday?”

“Yeah, but just for a moment, then it was gone. I haven’t been able to sense anything since. What I did feel really gave me the willies man.” It was very rare for one of them to cut their minds off like that, but when it happened the others would feel an emptiness, like a part of themselves had been taken away. Ryo had done it shortly after they defeated Arago, and then Seiji cut them off after the incident in New York.

“Shin could it be a head injury that’s shut the link down? When I found him he did have a pretty nasty head wound. I don’t know what else to think.” Ryo felt so frustrated, they had more questions then answers.

“I don’t know Ryo. I just don’t like this empty feeling. It’s too weird.” Shin frowned. Being the most perceptive had its drawbacks. “If Seiji has shut us out do you think he’s done the same to Touma?”

“Good God Shin, Touma must be going crazy, their bond is even stronger then ours and if it‘s broken...” Ryo put his head down into his hands, too upset to think about anything else.

Before Shin could say anything else he caught sight of Seiji’s dad heading towards them. “Guys, you’d better wake up.” Shin said.

****************************************************

Silence filled the room while Mr. Date explained Seiji’s injuries. Tears flowed freely, soft sobs were heard and friends clung to one another for support as the details were given. He told them as much as he could without betraying his son‘s wishes. If they were going to find out about the rape, it would have to be from Seiji’s own lips, not his.

“How long must he remain on the dialysis?” Nasuti asked, clinging to Ryo for strength.

“They said he’d be on it until his kidneys heal and can function on their own.” Mr. Date replied. He could see the fear hanging in Touma’s eyes and quickly went over to him. “Hey, he’s alive! That’s the most important thing here.”

“I’m sorry sir, I don‘t mean to appear so weak.” Touma sat up straight and wiped at his tears.

“Not at all, son. There’s no doubt in my mind that you are just what Seiji needs. It’s obvious that you love him very much, your sorrow tells me just as much.” He hoped that Touma and Seiji could survive this ordeal. More so, he hoped that if and when Touma did find out about Seiji being raped, it wouldn‘t change how he felt. There were many tales about relationships dissolving and marriages crumpling over something this traumatic.

“I do love Seiji, very much sir. He means the world to me, I just feel so helpless right now. I want to help him any way I can and if there was a way, I’d gladly trade places with him.” Touma looked to the floor. He still felt awkward at expressing himself around people, other then Seiji, yet here he was, telling Seiji’s dad no less, how much Seiji meant to him.

“Listen, I’ll see if I can get you into see Seiji. You deserve that much for your dedication to my son. All of you have been through a lot together, more then most people could ever imagine. Those events have formed a bond and it is very strong. I can feel that in each of you right now.” Mr. Date was well aware of the armors, and that Seiji, Shin, Ryo, Shu and Touma were the bearers of those armors, chosen to protect this world from evil.

“Thank you sir; that would be great. You‘re right about that bond, currently Seiji seems to have shut down the link. We haven‘t been able to reach him since yesterday. We thought it may be due to his injuries, but now I’m not so sure.” Ryo spoke up. His tiger blue eyes were red and puffy, dark circles were forming under them from lack of sleep.

“Okay then, let me get the doctor and see what strings I can pull but I want all of you to promise me one thing.” Mr. Date stood and turned to face them.

“What‘s that?” Touma asked, anxious to see Seiji and see for himself that he was indeed okay. Touma desperately needed to touch him to make some sort of connection with Seiji, since the break with the link had left him feeling scared and lonely.

“I want all of you to go home and get some sleep. You all look like hell!” His face broke into a smile.

“Now that’s a deal I can live with.” Shu stretched and smiled.

“And you mister...” Mr. date pointed at Shin. “Just what do you think you’re doing? Having your wife here in her condition, sleeping on these chairs and eating this crap they call food... Well, that cannot be healthy for her.” He folded his arms and waited for a reply.

“I‘m... Well... I’m sorry sir, but Lorelei is very stubborn and.....”

“...He couldn’t have kept me away even if he had tried.” Lorelei finished Shin’s sentence. She walked over to her husband who wrapped his arms protectively around her. “Seiji has always been like a brother to me, that goes for all of these guys and I would have gone crazy waiting at home for news about him.”

“Seiji spoke very highly of you young lady. My son was right, you are strong. He once said that he honestly thought you could go toe to toe with his grandfather and I tend to agree.” Mr. Date smiled then leaned over to place a kiss on her cheek. “Thanks for being such a wonderful friend to my son, that goes for all of you. Now, if you’ll excuse me I’ll see about visiting privileges.” He walked over to the nurse’s station while the others waited.

“Uh Shin? What did Seiji’s dad mean about Lorelei’s condition?” Ryo’s stare could have burnt a hole right through him.

“Sorry about that guys. We were going to tell you; it’s just that with everything that was happening, we just pushed it off. It didn‘t seem appropriate for us to be celebrating this while we worried about Seiji.” Shin said. He looked into Lorelei’s eyes then back to Ryo. “Guys, Lorelei is pregnant. We‘re finally going to have a family.” Shin beamed.

Everyone but Touma gathered around the happy couple; he already knew the happy news, now all he wanted was to see his Seiji.

“How far along?”

“Boy or girl?”

“Have you picked any names?”

“Hey Ryo’s a great name for a boy.”

“RYO!!!”

“Why didn’t you tell us sooner?”

“And what’s wrong with the name Ryo?”

“RYO!!!”

Shin and Lorelei fielded questions till Mr. Date returned. They could tell by his smile that he had been successful in getting them into seeing Seiji. As a group they headed up to the fourth floor and the Intensive Care Unit.

“Okay, according to Seiji’s dad, Seiji’s mom and grandfather went home for awhile so we can go in two at a time. Touma and Shu can go in together and then Shu can come out to allow Touma some time alone with Seiji. Is that okay?” Nasuti said, hoping it would meet their approval.

“Shin can you try and help Seiji just a little? We can’t do too much here, but maybe just enough to speed up Seiji’s own healing power. Mr. Date has already given his approval for us to intervene.” Ryo whispered. Shin nodded as he took his wife’s hand since they would be the first to go in.

All eyes watched the room as they saw and then felt Shin’s power; the soft light blue light peeked momentarily out from under the door. Once the light faded they relaxed to wait their turns.

When Shin and Lorelei emerged from the room they all noticed how Shin seemed to be supporting Lorelei a little more then normal. Her face was buried in his shoulder as she softly cried. Shin just nodded then waved to them; his face spoke volumes. Everyone stood stunned as they watched the couple head for the elevators.

Touma caught the whole scene as he stood frozen in place, his body began to tremble and once again the tears flowed. Shu walked over to him and placed a large hand on his shoulder. “Hey all pregnant woman get very emotional. Something to do with their hormones.” Shu tried to keep Touma from losing it. “Ming was like that when she was pregnant with SinJin, don’t let it scare you.”

“Thanks Shu. I guess I just need to prepare myself that’s all. They did say he was in bad shape, we saw proof of that last night.” Touma’s voice cracked he wasn’t sure just what he’d find on the other side of that door. He was sure of one thing though; no matter what, he loved Seiji, heart and soul.

Touma and Shu talked until Ryo and Nasuti came out of the room and even though the couple tried to hide their pain, they couldn’t completely erase it from their faces. “I figured he would look pretty bad, but your faces are telling me I may have under estimated things.” Touma felt the pain searing in his heart like he was being branded.

“Like his dad said, He’s alive, that’s what’s important.” Ryo spoke softly; afraid his voice would betray his true emotions. “There are a lot of machines and stuff, it makes things look worse then they actually are.”

“Touma, Seiji’s dad said you shouldn’t rush out, stay as long as you like. He had to leave to fill out paper work but would be back later.” Nasuti held back her tears for now. “Do you want to stay at our place tonight?”

“Naaa I’ll be fine. Thanks though.” Touma just wanted to get into that room, he wasn’t even thinking past that point. “Just seeing Seiji should help. I’ll be okay guys; after all, I’m all grown-up now.” He arched his eyebrow at them then turned towards Seiji’s room.

“Hey Shu, ya coming buddy?”

Touma took a deep breath as Shu opened the door and the two stepped inside. Shu was the first to see Seiji and couldn’t stop the gasp that escaped from his throat. He stood frozen in place and for the first time since this had all begun Shu realized just how close they had come to losing Seiji.

“Man Oh Man! Seiji...” The words died on his lips, too shocked by the image before him. Seiji lay still in the bed; a ventilator was helping him to breath and several IV’s hung above him as their tubes snaked down to disappear into the already bruised flesh of his hands. Touma placed a hand on his shoulder to let him know that is was okay. “It just took me by surprise, sorry about that.”

Touma walked passed Shu, his tears stung as they fell, his mind was still trying to convince him that this was Seiji. Seiji’s face was swollen and ugly purple bruises covered his cheeks, chin, nose and eyes. He could also see bruises and marks on Seiji’s neck, collarbone, arms and hands.

“Oh Gods Seiji. What have they done to you?” He cried. Standing beside the bed, Touma carefully reached for Seiji’s hand. It felt so cold to him as he cradled it in his own. Seiji’s hands were always so warm and comforting yet right now they were cold and lifeless. Tears streamed down his face as stared into the sleeping face of his best friend and lover.

“God they really did a number on him, those animals.” Shu broke the silence his voice filled with hatred for the men who had hurt his friend. Shu saw Touma’s shoulders shake and quickly stood beside him. “Come on man, he’ll pull through.”

“I hope so, Gods I hope so. I love him so much.” Touma leaned down to rub his cheek on the hand he held. He reached over to further view a wound on Seiji’s collarbone. “Damn them Shu, they bit him!” Touma lightly traced what could only be identified as teeth marks that had gone deep into the skin. Touma felt a wave of nausea hit as he thought about the pain Seiji must have felt from it.

Shu was appalled at the wounds and he too felt sick to his stomach. Not even in their battles with the Dynasty had any of them received injuries this sickening. God no man should have to endure that much pain. It was all so hard for either of them to image and even harder to fathom how Seiji got through it. Shu stood back so that Touma could be as close to Seiji as he wanted but stayed within an arm’s length in case the archer needed him.

“Seiji? I don’t know if you can hear me but I’m here my love.” He gently brushed the hair from Seiji’s face and lightly traced each bruise and cut that he found on the swordsman‘s face.

Leaning down Touma placed a light kiss on Seiji’s lips being as careful as he could since they were swollen and bruised also. His Tears fell silently as he put his lips close to his lover’s ear. “Please don’t leave me, I need you. I love you so much; you’re my world. Seiji, you mean so much to me, I‘ll never leave your side.” The ache within his heart grew, wanting more then anything to see Seiji open his eyes and to know that he was there for him.

“He’ll get better. Seiji knows how much you love him, and I bet he senses your presence right now.” Shu said to him. He felt Touma’s body shake as he wept. “Touma, we’ll also find the ones responsible for hurting Seiji, and we’ll make them pay. Someone is going to regret messing with one of us.” Shu’s angered voice rose slightly.

Touma spun around to face his friend, his face wet with his tears. “NO! Don’t you or anyone else even think of taking the law into your own hands! Promise me Shu; promise me that all of you will allow the police to handle this.” Touma had his hands on Shu’s shoulders and was practically shaking the life out of him. “It’s obvious that these people are dangerous and I don’t want to see anyone else hurt or worse still.... Just promise me!” In one swift move Touma pulled Shu into a hug, holding onto him as though his life depended on it. “Please Shu. I can’t risk losing my friends.”

Shu was a bit stunned by Touma’s reaction but hesitantly agreed to Touma‘s request. “Okay, sure. I promise you Touma.” Touma released him and Shu saw for the first time just how much pain and sorrow Touma carried deep in his soul. They all knew that Touma’s life hadn’t always been the greatest. Now Shu could see in Touma’s eyes just how deep that pain ran.

“Thanks man. I know that it’s what Seiji would want as well.” Touma returned to Seiji’s side, recapturing the hand he had held moments before. “Listen anytime you want to leave, you can, I’m all right now. I want to stay with Seiji for as long as I can.” Touma’s voice took on that monotone sound Shu had been hearing since last night.

“If you don’t mind, I think I’ll stay for a bit longer.” Shu replied then walked over to the other side of the bed and began talking to Seiji.

Ten minutes later Shu decided it would be best if he left Touma alone with Seiji. “I’m going to head out now. Ryo and Nasuti are waiting for me. Are you sure you’re okay?” Shu walked over to stand beside Touma.

“I’m sure.” Touma replied, never taking his eyes off his lover.

“Okay then, but you call us if you need us. I’ll keep my link open just in case okay buddy? I‘m sure that the others will have their links open as well.” Shu put a strong arm around Touma’s shoulders.

“Thanks. Would you ask Ryo and Nasuti to stop at the house and feed Orion, I think I may have forgotten.” Touma sniffled. “Ryo knows where the spare key is hidden.”

“Sure thing. I’ll talk to you later then.” Shu squeezed Touma’s shoulder before turning to leave.

Without letting go of Seiji’s hand Touma pulled a chair closer to the bed and sat down. He held the now warming hand against his cheek as the tears trickled and dropped from his eyes. “I’m here to stay love. If they want me to leave they’ll have to drag me out kicking and screaming.” Touma lightly caressed Seiji’s arm. “God how I love you. You mean so much to me, so... very... much...”

Touma laid his head down keeping Seiji’s hand against his cheek. He listened to many sounds that filled the room Bleeps of the machines that monitored Seiji‘s vitals. Beeps from ones that sent precious fluids and meds into his weakened body and the hum of the ventilator that was pushing air into Seiji‘s lungs. He listened to them all, memorizing what sounds came from which machines, a single tear fell and splashed onto the back his lover’s hand and Touma knew in his heart that no matter what, his love for Seiji would remain steadfast and true.

The fatigue was finally wearing him down, and now that he was with the one person he loved, he allowed it to wash over him. “I’ll always love you Seiji.” As he drifted off he felt Seiji’s fingers tighten briefly around his own. Touma smiled sleepily, kissing the fingers softly he whispered. “Thanks my love, I knew you wouldn’t leave me.”

******************************************************

“Should I wake him up doctor?” The nurse stood and watched as the blue-haired man slept, still clutching the other’s hand.

“No, let him go. The family has told me that he may stay as long as he wants.” Dr Kobe replied. The nurse finished and walked silently toward the door. “Oh Miss Kaga?”

“Yes Doctor?” She turned to look at him.

“What goes on in this room, stays in this room. Got that?” He narrowed his gaze to reinforce his statement.

“Yes sir. I got that.” She smiled nervously as she walked out. Dr Kobe continued his exam of Seiji, being careful not to disturb the sleeping form. Once done, he pulled up a chair to make notations in the chart. It was almost five in the morning, and he still had several more hours to go before he could go home. The few hours he had spent at home getting some rest had helped but his body needed more.

Dr Kobe observed the sleeping form clutching Seiji’s hand; he was twitching and moaning in his sleep. He had refused to leave when the nurses had told him to. A call to the family fixed everything. Soon the movements became more pronounced and Dr Kobe knew he had to do something to prevent injury to his patient. Walking quietly over to the man he lightly touched his shoulder trying to awaken him.

“Excuse me? Are you okay?” He asked quietly.

Touma, startled by the voice, jumped and as he did he pulled on Seiji’s hand causing an IV monitor to beep. “Wh... What’s going on?” Touma asked still a bit disorientated. His heart was pounding madly as panic took over.

“It’s okay. Calm down. These things are very sensitive; a wrong move sets them off easily.” Dr Kobe explained as he pushed a button to quiet the machine. “I’m so sorry to have startled you. My name is Doctor Kobe. I‘m Seiji‘s physician.” He extended his hand.

“That’s okay. I’m sorry I set the machine off. I’m Touma Hashiba.” Touma shook the hand that was offered to him, he was still trying to shake the sleep from his eyes and his mind. “What time is it?”

“It’s five o’clock in the morning. Mr. Date informed us that you could stay as long as you wanted, so we just let you sleep. It looked like you really needed it.” Kobe responded.

“Doc, is he going to be okay? I mean really okay?” Touma turned to Seiji and lightly touched his cheek. He could feel the tears welling up again but forced them back down this time. Okay Touma, enough with the tears already.

“Well, he made it through most of the night, which is good. I’m actually amazed. The nurses say he has been resting comfortably since he came out of surgery.” Dr Kobe replied. “I don’t know how but he seems to have stabilized rather quickly. It must be a record here.”

Touma let out a sigh as he turned to look at the doctor. He knew that it was due to Shin’s healing touch but he couldn’t tell the doctor that. “Any idea about when he’ll wake up?” Touma asked.

He just wanted to go back to holding onto Seiji but was unsure how this doctor would take it. Yeah he had seen him sleeping there, clutching Seiji’s hand; lots of people probably did that. This was where Seiji worked and Touma could never do anything to cause a scandal so he stood there keeping his hands at his sides.

“Well that’s entirely up to him. I’m hoping that it’ll happen within the next 24 hours.” Dr Kobe thought for sure that he’d be out for another two to three days due to the blood loss and extent of the injuries, but his heart rate and other vitals were telling him differently.

“Just keep talking to him letting him know you’re here, that should help.” Doctor Kobe noticed the looks Touma kept giving Seiji and started putting things together. “I truly believe that people hear to some degree, when they are in this state. I also strongly believe in the power of touch, whether it’s holding someone’s hand or light caresses. Why don’t you give it a try?” Doctor Kobe saw the smile spread across Touma’s face as he quickly took his seat again. I thought so. Kobe now realized that Touma was indeed more then just a friend to Seiji. Hmmm blue hair, Dr Date is just full of surprises.

Touma took Seiji’s hand in his; softly he stroked it with his thumb, tracing the veins that stood out on the back of it. God how he loved those hands, smooth and so delicate on the back while his palms still held calluses from using his swords, yet even they were soft to the touch as far as Touma was concerned. Touma traced a vein that started on his hand and coiled its way up Seiji’s arm. This very body was so familiar to him, he knew every line and angle, he knew Seiji’s body better then he knew his own.

“Ya hear that Seiji? You have to want to wake up. Okay?” Touma ran his hand across Seiji’s forehead sweeping hair from the sleeping warrior’s eyes. Lightly he ran a finger over the few creases that lay there. Touma memorized every thing about his lover that he could, a vow he made that very day when Seiji finally found the courage to tell Touma how he felt. ~ I’m falling in love with you Touma. ~ Such simple words; yet their strength was undeniable. That day Seiji walked into his heart, and Touma vowed he would never let Seiji walk out.

“Maybe you just need a little more sunshine in here.” Touma walked to the window and opened the blinds fully. “It’ll be another hour or so before the sun rises, but when it does Seiji, it should fill this room and touch you with its warmth.”

Dr Kobe couldn’t help but smile at the way the young man seemed to handle things. It was quite obvious that Touma‘s love for Seiji was deeper then anyone could imagine, it almost seemed magical to him. Too bad more couples can’t be this devoted to one another, straight or otherwise.

“Touma, when was the last time you had anything to eat?” Kobe asked though he had a feeling he already knew the answer.

Touma just shrugged his shoulders, he really couldn’t remember. “Not sure doctor.” Eating had been furthest from his mind and now he couldn’t bring himself to leaving Seiji alone to go get something even though his stomach was growling.

“I figured as much. Why don’t I have something brought to you? I doubt you’d listen to me if I told you to scoot and get something to eat.” Kobe laughed.

“Hey thanks, I really appreciate that. I just can’t leave him right now. I want to be here in case he wakes up. I need to see his eyes and know that everything is okay.” Touma smiled at Kobe then went back talking to Seiji as though he was awake.

Doctor Kobe winced slightly, he knew that Seiji’s family had not told anyone about the rape, and now as he watched Touma he could only wonder how things would be when Seiji does wake up. I just hope that their love is strong enough.

Dr Kobe listened for a few minutes as Touma started reminiscing about a time when someone named Shu had dashed off to the bathroom only to discover that there was no toilet paper. “...Remember how we just let him scream for almost 10 minutes before Shin took pity and got a new roll from upstairs. Only Shin couldn’t get it to him cause you locked the door from the outside and then hid the key. Poor Shin, he was getting so upset, and Shu was getting angrier by the minute. Gosh you and I laughed till we had tears in our eyes and our sides ached.” Dr Kobe slipped out of the door leaving the two lovers alone.

************************************************

“Are you sure you’re okay?” Ryo asked Touma as he looked down at Seiji who seemed better today. “Shin worked his magic huh?”

Touma took the duffel bag that Ryo gave him. “You bet.” He smiled and Ryo was relived to see some of the old Touma spring forth. “Thanks for picking up this stuff and checking on Orion.”

“Hey no problem. I think White Blaze may be getting too protective of that fur ball. He actually growled at me when I was playing with Orion. Must have thought I was hurting it or something.” Ryo laughed. “Anyway, we need to go get WB, he and Orion curled up together and fell asleep and we didn’t have the heart to wake them up.”

“Papa Blaze huh? Well just make sure he doesn’t eat my cat, or I’ll serve up grilled tiger at our next cookout!” Touma laughed for the first time since this whole ordeal began and it felt so good. Twice he had felt Seiji tighten his fingers while he held his hand. The nurses said it was a normal muscle reflex, but he knew better.

“Touma, if there’s anything else you need... Well you know, just give us a buzz.” Ryo said as he gathered up his things. “Oh Shin and Lorelei send their best as well. Lorelei has been experiencing morning sickness... Actually the way Shin put it... Morning, noon and night sickness, or else they’d stop in. Shin said he might drop by later on anyway.” Ryo smiled and his tiger blue eyes sparkled.

“Thanks. I’ll call Shin and Lors later. Gosh I hope that she’ll be okay. She’s a real trooper though. I just hope she can put up with Shin’s mother hen routine.” Touma walked over to Ryo and hugged him tightly. “Thank you Ryo, all of you have been a great strength to me. I don’t know if I could have gotten through this without you guys.”

Ryo was a bit shocked by the hug. Touma wasn’t one to be openly affectionate, but then again Touma had displayed more emotion over the past day or so then he had the whole time Ryo had known him. “He’s coming back to us Touma. I can feel it.” Ryo responded by hugging Touma back.

“Yeah Ryo, he is. Thanks buddy.” Touma held Ryo for a second longer then let go. He resumed his vigil by Seiji’s bedside as Ryo said his goodbyes to go find Nasuti who had gone to grab a coke from the vending area.

Touma watched as the morning sun danced across his lover‘s bruised face. Wincing as each mark, each purple bruise and each cut was highlighted. “I‘m so sorry that you got hurt. That‘s why you have to wake up and get a little better and then you can use Korin to heal some of the injuries.”

Touma began what would become his special ritual; a light caress to Seiji’s face followed by soft kisses. This was his Seiji, no matter how bad he looked. “I love you very much Seiji and I always will.”

*****************************************************

The day wore on and Touma true to his word kept his place right beside his love. Nurses came throughout the morning to check monitors, take vitals and empty a collection bag that hung discreetly along one side of the bed. Touma made sure to pull the blanket over it after the nurses would leave. He knew how embarrassed Seiji would be if it were left in the open. He also made sure that Seiji was properly covered at all times. Even though he was tempted, he refrained from checking to see how far down the blonde warrior’s body, the bruises went. The ones he could see upset him enough, the rest could be left for later.

Some nurses stopped and chatted with Touma while others gave him quizzical looks. These were staff members who had heard about Seiji and quickly stopped in to see him. There were two particular nurses that Touma didn’t like at all, they had come down from another floor and caught Touma placing a kiss on Seiji’s lips. After spending a few moments offering words of encouragement to Seiji they turned to leave.

“I didn’t know Dr Date was gay! What a waste.” One told the other.

“At least he could have had better taste in partners. BLUE HAIR? Really!” The other responded. Both nurses giggled as they walked away.

They never saw Touma flip them the finger. It was then that he decided to speak to the doctor about all the traffic coming and going in and out of Seiji’s room. This is ICU for crying out loud! Thankfully the Doctor had agreed and put the word out to the staff.

That night Seiji’s parents stopped in along with Seiji’s grandfather. Seiji’s parents had been in and out all day, but his grandfather had stayed to run the dojo but now with it closed for the day, he was there. Touma politely excused himself and left the room for awhile. Dr Kobe had made arrangements for Touma to use the Showers in the Doctor’s lounge, so he headed there. He didn’t want to leave Seiji, but he also didn’t want to deal with the Elder Date’s questions.

A shower was most welcomed by Touma, and a change of clothes helped to boost his spirits a little. He quickly dried off and slipped into clean jeans and a t-shirt. He smiled at the shirt because it had been from Seiji who had bought it in the US and sent it home to Touma.

~ While in the states Seiji had driven down to Washington DC to see the capitol. Since he was there, Seiji had decided to stop into the Smithsonian’s National Air & Space Museum, taking pictures and gathering info and a few books and such for Touma. He had seen the t-shirt and knew it was perfect for Touma. The black t-shirt had a pretty space scene on it that had Touma quickly claiming it as his favorite shirt. ~

Slowly he made his way back to Seiji’s room, letting out a sigh as he walked in to find the room empty. He smiled when he caught sight of a little bag with cookies in for him, sitting on table beside Seiji‘s bed. A note left by the bag quickly told him that they were from Mrs. Date. He munched one down as he grabbed the pitcher and headed into the bathroom to fill it. Seeing how it still contained quite a bit of ice, he figured there was no sense in disturbing a nurse to fill it. Touma hummed to himself as he set about completing his task.

*******************************************

He could hear a voice humming in the distance. Its tune was familiar and comforting. Trying to follow the sound he found it hard to move, something was holding him down. It was so dark, too dark in fact and he hated that. His limbs felt like leaded weights as he struggled to move them.

“Must get out of here.” He told himself. He tried to open his eyes, but he couldn‘t; his heart began pounding harder. “What’s going on? Am I dead? Why can’t I move?” He struggled to get up, but a searing pain in his abdomen stopped him. “Oh God help me.” He tried to speak but there was something in his mouth that snaked down his throat. Fear set in and he began to struggle harder. Seiji Date screamed in his mind for the one person he knew would surely come to help him. “TOUMA!”

********************************************

TOUMA! Touma felt the scream enter his head, sensed the fear it held, heard the voice who called to him. “SEIJI?” Dropping the pitcher, his heart practically beating it’s way out of his chest; he raced back into the room to find Seiji thrashing around in a blind panic. Quickly he ran to the bed trying to hold the swordsman down with one hand while pressing the call button with the other.

“Seiji calm down, it’s okay. Seiji!” Touma saw one IV tear from the already tender flesh and he began to cry. “Shit where are those friggin nurses? SOMEONE HELP!” He shouted.

“Gods Seiji settle down, you’re safe now. It’s me, Touma, open your eyes love. Please?” Touma was getting scared; his tears fell harder as he struggled to keep Seiji still.

“Shit Seiji you‘re hurting yourself” He could see blood seeping through the bandage on Seiji’s abdomen. “Fuck! You’ve torn your stitches. Come on Seiji, oh God please.” Touma cried, his tears slid down his cheeks.

Seiji tried to scream out, tried to open his eyes, tried to figure out who was touching him, who’s voice was calling him, but nothing made sense to him. No, don’t hurt me anymore, please! Let me die, I want to die! Too ashamed to go back. I’ve dishonored everyone I love. Not worthy anymore. Seiji’s mind screamed.

Touma heard what sounded like flesh tearing, and saw more blood ooze from the bandages. “NOOOO, Oh God, NOOOOO. Don’t you dare die on me dammit! Open your eyes Seiji. OPEN YOUR EYES!” Touma cried out his voice was hoarse from his shouts and the sobs that shook his body.

Seiji’s eyes flew open upon hearing the scream. His vision was blurred and he felt disorientated, but he knew hands were touching him trying to pin him down. He tried to speak but the tube in his throat stopped him and he began to panic again.

“ Seiji, please, it’s me love.” Touma spoke softly as he watched another IV come undone. He did his best to hold him down, trying not to hurt him any further. Finally 2 nurses along with Dr Kobe came rushing in. One of the nurses rushed past Touma to help hold Seiji down. The other nurse pushed Touma out of the way as she helped to hold Seiji in place.

“SEIJI, it’s okay. You’re in the hospital. Seiji, it’s Dr Kobe, look at me.” Scared and unsure about what was happening he continued his struggle.

“Seiji, listen to me! You are in the hospital. You’re going to be okay. I need you to settle down or I’ll have to give you a sedative.” The very thought of having more drugs pumped into his body was all Seiji needed to hear to bring an end to his thrashing. Dr Kobe watched as Seiji’s body relaxed a bit. “Good, now we’re getting somewhere.

“Seiji, you have a breathing tube in. I’ll get respiratory therapy up to remove it in a little while, but first things first. You must lie still, and remain calm.” The Dr spoke softly to him. “You know the drill. Yes and No questions. Blink once for yes and twice for no. Got that?” Seiji blinked once.

“That’s it Seiji, just relax. Now I need to check your stitches.” Seiji stiffened when he felt hands lifting the hospital gown and he could feel his mind beginning to panic. Seiji tried to pull away from the intrusion. Dr Kobe stopped when he realized what was going on. Nice going Kobe. The guy’s been raped and here you are lifting up his hospital gown. He looked Seiji in the face, and spoke calmly as he explained what he was doing, step by step.

This seemed to satisfy Seiji enough so that he relaxed once again. “Just as I figured, you’ve torn almost all the stitches. Luckily the incision hasn’t opened up too much. It looks as though it’s already trying to heal. I’ll get a tray in and repair them myself.”

Touma stood frozen to the spot he was standing in, crying softly. He let out a sharp groan when he heard the doctor mention the stitches. “I’m so sorry Seiji. I tried to help... I’m sorry.” He didn’t mean to say it so loudly, but Touma found it hard to control his emotions at the moment.

Seiji heard Touma’s voice and turned his head to look over at Him. God he looks horrible. Seiji thought. He must think he hurt me. I have to help him. I have to even if I don’t deserve him. He felt so confused, wanting the warmth of Touma’s touch, yet repulsed at the thought. So many memories to bury, so much to forget. God Touma, I don’t know if I’m strong enough to do it.

Touma felt the hot tears slide down his cheeks. He saw Seiji’s eyes lock onto him. His eyes looked wild, there was so much fear written in them. Touma wasn’t sure about what to do since Seiji looked so confused. He wanted to help him, make him see that everything would be okay. Touma took a deep breath and began to step forward, watching Seiji’s face for any sign of fear. He practically flew right to him when he saw Seiji gently lift a hand towards him and soon their fingers touched.

A single tear slipped from Seiji’s eye and slid down his face. I’ve failed you Touma; I’m the one who’s sorry. He spoke to his silent mind. How could you ever want me again?

The nurses and Dr Kobe stood back and watched as the scene unfolded before their eyes. Dr Kobe held his breath and watched for signs of rejection from Seiji. He tried to think of something he could say to Touma if that would happen.

“Oh God Seiji. Oh Gods.” Touma leaned down to place Seiji’s hand near his lips kissing it gently. “You gave us quite a scare but everything is okay now. You’re going to get through this, you hear?” He watched Seiji’s eyes carefully. They were still slightly swollen but with a bit of effort Seiji blinked once. Touma smiled and brushed the hair out of his face. “That’s the spirit love.”

“Seiji, I’ll go make the call to get that tube out and those stitches repaired. You take it easy and after the tube is out and you’ve had a chance to rest a bit, we’ll talk.” Dr Kobe patted his arm as Seiji blinked once. “Keep him quiet, okay? Don‘t let him move around too much, the bleeding has stopped for now, but any wrong moves and it could start again.” Dr Kobe instructed Touma and then left with the nurses.

Touma immediately turned his attention back to Seiji. He saw more tears sliding down Seiji’s cheeks and reached out to wipe them away. Seiji flinched at his touch. Touma just thought it was due to his face being sore.

“Sorry Seiji. I didn’t mean to hurt you. Touma put his hands on the bed rails. He felt sad that a light touch appeared to be agony for Seiji. You’re going to be sore for quite awhile, guess I’d better use an even lighter touch. Right?” Seiji blinked once.

“Are you in a lot of pain?” Seiji blinked twice, closed his eyes for a second, then blinked once.

“Do you want me to see if they can give you something for the pain?” Eyes grew wider and Seiji quickly blinked twice.

“Listen, if you’re in pain you should...” Two blinks, a pause, two more blinks. Seiji seemed quite frightened now.

“Okay... This would be easier if you’d open the link; we could talk that way.” No response.

“Seiji, why don’t you want to open the link?” No response again.

“You want me to drop the whole subject?” One blink. Touma’s heart sank. Seiji was keeping him at a distance and that scared him. “Don’t push me away, I love you. Seiji, you are so special to me, I only want to help you, to make things better. Please, let me help you.”

Seiji wanted to say yes, he wanted Touma’s love more then anything, but he knew too much had transpired and wasn’t sure if he could return any of it now. Seiji decided not to respond. He had to begin training his mind to forget, forget the abduction, the beating and the rapes. He had to for his own sanity, though he doubted he could totally forget the vile feel of those hands on his body.

Touma saw the lack of response he got from Seiji and it scared him. “Oh Seiji, my love. What happened to make you so scared?” He whispered. His head lowered as the tears fell faster then he could wipe away. Touma began to shake, he felt confused, scared and slightly unsure about what the future would hold for him and the man he cherished.

“I’m sorry Touma. I can’t let you into my mind. I can’t let you touch me. I’m too ashamed. How can you say you love me? I’m no longer worthy of your love. God why didn’t they let me die? WHY?” Seiji could feel the tears flowing from his eyes, and he turned his face away from Touma. He could hear Touma’s sobs and it tore his heart into pieces but he just kept his head turned. He was too afraid of what Touma would see in his eyes. Until he could get his emotions under control he had to avoid Touma’s gaze, or risk Touma finding out everything.

Both men cried their own tears.

Touma, who even though was worried about Seiji’s reaction to him, was just happy to have his one and only love back.

Seiji, who despite his desire to want Touma’s love, feared he may have just lost something he would never get back.

Okay, I know, I’m cruel! What can I say? This just seemed like a good stopping point for this chapter. I just hope that this wasn’t too lame. Hang in there though, Chapter four is already in the works, and hopefully it’ll get better for our guys (or will it?). Can you tell I love watching “The Iron Chef?”

** Please feel free to drop me a line and let me know what you think of the story thus far. Authors love feedback ya know. I’m always open to suggestions or to talk about my favorite duo. (or any of the troopers)**