TAINTED LOVE

By Zoey andOlduvai Gump

No, he thought. Psychopath, yes…heartless, no. He could remember a time, before the battles, before the folly that had started the whole thing, when he and the blonde bishonen had shown quite different sides of themselves…

Upon entering the throne room, Nephrite was greeted first by a raised eyebrow from Kunzite, and next by an icy glare from Beryl. He swallowed.

“Nephrite!” Beryl snapped. “You should know better than to try my patience! I expect all Senior Generals to come when I call, and not a second later!”

Nephrite knew the futility of trying to argue, so he merely bowed his head and replied “Yes, my Queen.” Then, under lowered lids, he shot an irritated look at Kunzite. The older general ignored him and looked at the queen.

“Now that all of the parties have arrived, Majesty, may I ask why this assembly was called?”

The annoyance on Beryl’s face diminished slightly as she looked at her favored general. “Kunzite,” she said approvingly. “I’m glad at least one of my generals knows how to show the proper respect.” Nephrite clenched his fists as Kunzite bowed his head. Beryl continued. “I have called the two of you here because I have an assignment for you.”

At this, Nephrite perked up. Beryl loved pitting her officers against one another, and he was always on the lookout for the chance to show-up his icy rival. He turned his attention entirely to the queen.

“I wish for the two of you to personally train a couple of students from the Academy,” Beryl announced. “Both have shown extreme promise, and I am hoping that one of them may have what it takes to become my newest General. At the end of the training period, there will be a contest in which the next General will be chosen, if in fact either of the students qualify.” She narrowed her eyes. “I am counting on the two of you. Do not fail me!”

Nephrite hid a smile. This latest plan of Beryl’s was, to say the least, transparent. She had obviously cooked up a way to kill two birds with one stone....test the skills of her two strongest warriors, and gain another in the process! He saw from the look of amusement on Kunzite’s face that the other general had seen through Beryl’s thinly veiled words as well.

Beryl smiled at the looks on her Generals’ faces. If they knew that it was to be a competition, so be it! The end results would be even better. Without another word, Beryl motioned towards the doorway behind the men. Two figures stepped into the room, and Nephrite felt his smile (among other things) growing. It was two hot little female Academy students, a redhead and a blonde. This really will be a challenge, he thought to himself. A challenge to keep our hands off of these scrumptious little dishes. The redhead, a girl Nephrite knew and had had numerous encounters with, came and stood next to him…the blonde, next to Kunzite.

“So,” Beryl said, “These are your pupils. Nephrite, you will be training Carnealite. Kunzite, you will be taking Zoisite. Now, I expect only the best from the two of you, and.....”

As Beryl rattled on, Nephrite took the opportunity to admire the blonde, Zoisite. She had a flawless face with bright green eyes, framed by wild coppery hair which had been pulled back into a ponytail. But as Nephrite’s gaze traveled the length of Zoisite’s body, he soon noticed that something wasn’t quite right. He blinked as he realized that the person he was looking at was not a woman at all, but a young man so slender and beautiful that he could hardly be blamed for his mistake.

As Nephrite stared in fascination, Zoisite glanced over at him and their eyes met, cool brown to flashing green. Zoisite held his gaze for a moment before smiling silkily and returning his attention to the queen. Shaken, Nephrite did the same, forcing his eyes to stay put for the remainder of Beryl’s speech.

When the queen was finished and they were dismissed, Kunzite turned and walked out of the room, and Zoisite followed without a backwards glance. Once Nephrite had led Carnealite down the hall and away from the throne room, he turned to her.

“Well, this is certainly an interesting turn of events,” he said. Then he smiled. “It’s good to see you again, Carnealite.”

Carnealite’s sapphire eyes lit up as she smiled, and Nephrite almost lost his breath. He’d forgotten how beautiful this one was. Seconds later he really did lose his breath as Carnealite pulled him against her and began to kiss him passionately. I think I’m going to like this assignment, Nephrite thought to himself as his hands began to rove the girl’s leanly muscled body.

“Now you know all the principal rooms of the Dark Kingdom. From this day on, I expect you to teleport, and not walk as we did. Understand?”

Kunzite’s deep and smooth voice was still echoing in Zoisite’s ears as he answered, “hai, Kunzite-sama.”

“You know how to teleport?” asked Kunzite.

“Yes, Kunzite-sama.”

“Good. I don’t like to train beginners,” Kunzite murmured.

Zoisite lowered his head. He was a beginner, even if he did know how to teleport and perform a little magic.

“What is your trademark?” asked Kunzite after a moment of silence. Zoisite quickly raised his head and looked at his superior in confusion. “Yes,” continued the arch-general. “Surely you have a special attack of your own, an attack that, when anybody looks at it, they will say ‘Ah! It is Zoisite’s special attack!’” Zoisite flushed. “Yes? Then go!” the silver-haired man shouted. “I don’t have time to waste with children.”

As much as he respected his superior, Zoisite would have liked to kill Kunzite for calling him a child. But he restrained himself. He had to show good form, especially on the first day. He raised his hand, aimed at a target on a wall, and shouted “ZOI!” A flurry of cherry blossom petals hit the wall, leaving scorch-marks across it.

That fits for a pansy-boy like Zoisite, Kunzite thought. Flower petals...but I must admit that it’s quite good for a beginner. “Yes,” he said. “That’s quite amusing. Is that all you can do?”

Zoisite flushed harder, turning bright red. Kunzite had to hide a snicker. “Yes, that’s all Kunzite-sama.” Zoisite lowered his head and clenched his fists. How miserable he looked beside Arch-General Kunzite! Kunzite saw Zoisite’s anger.

“Zoisite,” he said calmly. “We will continue tomorrow. And never show your anger. Emotions are a sign of weakness. Goodnight.” With that Kunzite teleported in a flash of purple energy, leaving Zoisite alone in the Training Yard.

Meanwhile, in another part of the Dark Kingdom...

Carnealite curled into Nephrite’s arms as she slid into a deep sleep. Nephrite kissed her soft hair and rubbed her naked shoulders. This girl was truly a blessing in his life. She was pretty and intelligent, soft but rather savage. And such a good bed-warmer! He could feel her curved form pressed against his body, and he felt himself hardening as he thought about the last hour he had spent with the red-haired girl. Cupping Carnealite’s chin in his hand, he raised her lips to his and kissed her passionately. Carnealite blinked her eyes then closed them again, totally savoring the moment. She stretched, exposing her firm, round breasts. Nephrite bent to suck them, and she let out a little moan as the auburn-haired general caressed her soft skin.

“I guess this will be a long night,” she said.

“I think so too,” murmured Nephrite. He rubbed her clit, feeling her wetness and making her moan louder. “You are just so ready for me,” Nephrite said in her ear.

“And so are you,” Carnealite answered, caressing his hard, throbbing member.

They melted into each other’s arms, kissing passionately. Nephrite bit her ear as he entered her, and she screamed in pure ecstasy. She didn’t care about being noisy. She was now Nephrite’s pupil, the protégé of one of the most powerful men in the Dark Kingdom. Nobody would dare to hurt her or insult her as long as she stayed with him. Nephrite’s hard dick rode her harder and faster and she let out deep, loud moans, shouting his name over and over.

“Oh Nephrite! That’s so good! Ahh!”

“You drive me crazy, my love!”

Carnealite’s eyes lit up. He had just called her his love! “I love you too Nephrite,” she said. “Now gimmie more! More!”

Nephrite took her buttocks in his hands to drive his shaft deeper inside her. It was almost hurting her, but the pain mixed with the incredibly good feeling drove her to a strong orgasm. She felt Nephrite’s semen fill her lovebox. Then they held still in each other’s arms, listening to one another’s heartbeat.

“I love you Nephrite,” whispered Carnealite.

“You’re the best thing that’s ever happened in my life,” answered the auburn-haired man. The two cuddled together as they fell asleep.

Then suddenly, his smile faded. What was he thinking? Women were meant for a good time, nothing more! His face grew bright red as he remembered what he had said to Carnealite the night before. Why, he must have been insane with desire! To think that he, Nephrite, had actually told a girl that he loved her? Dropping the lock of hair back on the pillow, Nephrite jumped out of the bed and began to put on his clothes. As he was buttoning his pants, Carnealite’s eyes blinked open, and she smiled lazily up at him.

“Morning my love,” she sighed. “It’s cold in here. Won’t you come back to bed?”

Nephrite glared coldly at her. “No, I won’t. It’s late, and we need to start your training. You should have been up hours ago. Do you want to win Queen Beryl’s competition, or do you just want to lie in bed all day?”

Carnealite looked around in confusion as her eyes began to water. “But–but I thought...”

Nephrite cut her off. “That’s the problem. You’re not supposed to think. I’m supposed to do the thinking for you. Now, get out of that bed. We have work to do.”

Carnealite’s eyes narrowed, and she glared angrily at Nephrite. “Fine,” she said. “Since you put it that way. May I get my clothes, General Nephrite, or would you prefer that I train in the nude?”

Nephrite’s lips curled into a sneer. “What I would prefer, little girl is that you keep your mouth shut and do as I say. Now get dressed and meet me in the Training Yard in no more than 5 minutes.” With that, he disappeared in a flash of blue energy.

Once he appeared in the Training Yard, Nephrite stood silently and tried not to feel like a bastard. Much as he wanted to convince himself that he didn’t care, he’d hated hurting Carnealite that way. Oh well, he thought. It’s for the best. I can’t train the girl if she has some stupid crush on me. But he couldn’t shake the rotten feeling that it gave him.

When Carnealite showed up, it was in a burst of fiery orange energy. In the new training uniform she had been given, she looked slender, sexy....and angry. Not just mildly pissed off, but mad. Her eyes were narrowed to slits, and her gorgeous mouth was pursed in an alluring scowl. Nephrite actually found it unbelievably exciting. At that moment he wanted nothing more then to bury his hands in Carnealite’s hair and see for himself what that sexy mouth could do. But getting close to this woman was too dangerous, as he’d already proven. Instead, he mentally doused himself in cold water and put on a scowl of his own.

“6 minutes,” he said.

Carnealite’s fists clenched. “I apologize, my lord.But I had trouble finding my uniform, as your eminence threw it under the bed when he carried me into the room last night!”

Nephrite smarted from this attack, but he refused to show it. “Your possessions are your responsibility. This is not the Academy. Here we do not cater to whiny little girls when their late-night activities make them unable to perform the tasks given them!”

Carnealite gasped at this, momentarily losing her composure. Nephrite felt genuine pain looking at her, her eyes full of tears and her air of defiance cracked. The fact that the feelings of this girl mattered to him only served to anger him further. Twisting his face into a sneer, he looked at her.

“You’d like to attack me, wouldn’t you?” he asked. Carnealite didn’t answer, but her spine stiffened and the look of anger returned to her face. “Well, go ahead, by all means,” Nephrite continued contemptuously. “It’s my job to train you, and what better opponent could I provide? Besides, I’m very interested to see what talents you possess...out of the bedroom.”

That did it. He could tell. Carnealite’s face twisted, and Nephrite prepared himself for the blast that he knew was coming. But nothing could have prepared him for the sheer ferocity of the attack. The girl had some talent indeed! He had never seen an Academy student this strong before. But he couldn’t let her know that.

“Good,” he growled. “For a youma. Now I want to see some REAL action! And you must learn to fight while being fought.” Nephrite gathered up energy and sent a small blast at Carnealite, just to let her know that he meant what he said. She recovered quickly, tossing her hair back, and concentrated on her own attack. She ended up sending a volley of fireballs at him, which he dodged easily. He could see her confusion and frustration, and it tore at him. To fight the pain, he sent an even stronger attack at her. This time it knocked her to her knees, and she had to pause a moment to catch her breath. Nephrite threw back his head and laughed.

“Is that all you can take? What kind of General do you expect to be?” He was so busy fighting to appear hateful that he didn’t see Carnealite’s eyes narrow as she looked up at him. He also didn’t see her struggling to gather energy, but he definitely saw the beam of fire shoot from her fingertips with unbelievable speed to just narrowly miss the crotch of his uniform. Shocked, he looked up to see her smiling savagely at him. Blind fury took over. Using all of his pain and anger, he gathered up his energy and shot it with all of his might towards Carnealite.

As soon as the energy had left him, so did the rage. He gasped, horrified by what he had done. Carnealite lay some 30 feet from where she had been, crumpled like a paper doll. She wasn’t moving.

“Oh God, what have I done,” Nephrite whispered over and over as he ran to her. Taking her in his arms, he rocked her against him. “My love. I’m so sorry! Please wake up.” To his relief, she suddenly gasped and began to cough. Brushing her hair back, he looked into her beautiful face and stood up with her, cradled unconscious in his arms. “Don’t worry my love, it will be all right. Please forgive me. I’ll make everything all right.” Then, still looking into her face, he teleported both of them out of the Training Yard and into his own chambers.

Damn! What have you done, you bastard? He thought. Carnealite groaned in his arms as her lips twisted in pain. Nephrite started to unbutton her uniform to see the wound he had caused. He was too busy to see Carnealite’s eyes slowly light up to a brilliant navy blue. She frowned as she realized what Nephrite was doing.

One second later, Nephrite was thrown to the opposite wall of the room by one of Carnealite’s powerful blasts. She rose up slowly from the bed. Her face showed pleasure and pain, the pleasure from her victory over Nephrite. She prepared another blast. Nephrite saw the pre-cursor of what was to come, and involuntarily raised his arms to protect his face and head....or maybe he just didn’t want to see her blast him into oblivion. Carnealite was stunned. Why doesn’t Nephrite rise up and protect himself with his magical powers? She wondered. Nephrite read her thoughts.

“Because...because I realized that I hurt you too much, and I suppose you have the right to hurt me too. I just don’t know what to think about this....about these....” It took all Nephrite’s will to say the word. “Emotions! They burn my soul each time I look at you.”

Carnealite didn’t respond. Nephrite really had hurt her, and she was not the kind of girl who forgave easily.

“In fact,” continued Nephrite, “I care for you too much. As a normal member of the Dark Kingdom, I should have just left you on your own after I shot you. But as you can see, it was impossible for me to do so.” Nephrite walked toward the red-haired girl and took her hand in his. “Let me have a look at your bruises now.”

Carnealite lay back on the bed and raised her uniform, showing him her tummy. Some lines of dark purplish-red blood were running down her perfectly shaped abdomen. Nephrite gently caressed the wounds, and they disappeared. Even the simple sight of Carnealite’s flesh was a turn-on for him. He would have liked to take her right away, right there, but suddenly she rose up off the bed and teleported. Nephrite was stunned. Now where did she go?

Gracefully, the slender boy raised his arm and shouted “ZOI!” Carnealite jumped in surprise at the scream that followed Zoisite’s shout. Looking to where the blast was aimed, she saw a youma lying on the floor, completely burned. Even the wall behind the youma was printed with its silhouette. Zoisite gave Carnealite a look.

“Would you like to be my next practice target?”

Carnealite looked at the large purple circles under the man’s bright green eyes. Surely the poor boy had been studying all night long. Nothing surprising about that, for he was Arch-Lord Kunzite’s pupil. The silver-haired general had the reputation of being quite severe with all of his students, making them train until they fell from exhaustion. When the students were too tired, Kunzite would say to Queen Beryl that they just weren’t worth it. Zoisite had heard about it, and wanted to prove to his mentor that he was much more then a feminine pretty-boy. Carnealite responded to Zoisite’s question with a slight “no.”

“Suit yourself,” said Zoisite. He then turned his back to her and prepared another attack. “Say, you’re Nephrite’s student, are you not?” he asked.

“Yeah, so?” snapped Carnealite. She just didn’t like Zoisite.

“Just making sure.”

Then, in a sudden flash of purple energy, Lord Kunzite appeared. Zoisite bowed. Carnealite was too stunned. Lord Kunzite really was a specimen! Of something to be afraid of, she thought.

“You should bow in front of Kunzite-sama,” hissed Zoisite. “Now, be nice and mind your own business.”

Carnealite blushed. How dare that little faggot insult her in front of Arch-General Kunzite! Furious, she vanished in a flash of orange energy and burst into Nephrite’s room. Nephrite was on the bed, thinking of what he could do to regain Carnealite’s confidence. Carnealite ran into his arms and burst into tears.

“Someone insulted me in front of Lord Kunzite!” she managed to shout. Nephrite caressed her hair.

“Shhhhh,” he soothed her. “If I know Kunzite, he is not thinking about you. I’m pretty sure he doesn’t even know your name.”

“I was presented to you, and he was there!” Carnealite wailed.

“Yes, but as I said, Kunzite only cares to pay attention to what is important to him. Meaning Queen Beryl’s favor, his cape, and his hair.” Carnealite giggled at Nephrite’s joke, and her sweet giggling soon turned into a laugh. Nephrite took the opportunity to hug her. “I am truly sorry for what I’ve done to you,” he whispered. “Please, forgive me.”

As an answer, she kissed him passionately. “I guess we won’t start my training today,” she moaned as they curled into a tight embrace.

Zoisite lowered his head. “I won’t do this again, Kunzite-sama.”

“Fine,” he answered coldly. “Now, let’s practice something else....how about fireballs?”

“I think...” started Zoisite.

Kunzite quieted him with a slap in the face. “I do the thinking!” he shouted.

Zoisite felt ready to break down and cry. He was so tired! He had been studying and practicing all night long. As much as he respected Lord Kunzite...Zoisite clenched his fists. A moment later, Kunzite barely avoided a powerful fireball directed at him. He turned his face toward Zoisite. “Is that what you wanted, Kunzite-sama?” he asked sarcastically. Kunzite grinned. He concentrated a little over Zoisite, and the slender man began to choke. He put his hands over his throat, looking for air. He looked in horror at Kunzite, who just smiled.

“Looks like you are a little less proud of yourself!” retorted the arch-general. He grabbed Zoisite by the arm and pushed him against the floor. His hot breath caressed Zoisite’s face as he pushed his strong body against his. “Now. Listen to me. Try that again, and I’ll just let you choke to death before my eyes as you beg for pity.”

He released his power from Zoisite. The copper-haired man breathed heavily and coughed. He curled up on the floor, still searching for fresh air, and clenched his fists.

“Zoisite...” said Kunzite in a warning tone.

Zoisite hit the ground with his fist, swearing. He heard Kunzite laugh. Zoisite raised an eyebrow and had a look at Kunzite.

“You are an open book Zoisite,” Kunzite said. “It’s too easy to predict your attacks.” Zoisite remained silent, lying still on the floor. “What you just don’t know Zoisite, is that you could be quite powerful. But first, we will have to work on that nasty temper of yours.”

Kunzite walked toward Zoisite. “Raise up on your knees,” ordered the silver-haired man. Zoisite did as he was ordered and raised his blonde head to Kunzite. “What a little misfit you are....” Kunzite started. He cupped Zoisite’s chin in one of his hands. Zoisite felt his heart beating very fast, as if it would break into millions of pieces. Kunzite brushed Zoisite’s lips with his thumb. Zoisite started to tremble, and an erotic feeling started to build in his loins. The touch of another man always turned him on. What is he doing? He asked himself. Why do I feel like this....he’s my superior! What game is he playing?It was too much for Zoisite. In a flash, he bit Kunzite’s finger. Kunzite, unprepared for the attack, screamed in pain and smashed Zoisite’s pretty face with his fist. As Zoisite fell to the ground again, Kunzite rubbed his thumb.

“Vicious...sharp...treacherous...malicious...traitor...liar...killer.....” Kunzite enumerated. “I guess those are good qualities for a general.” Taking Zoisite’s collar, he pulled him to his feet. He smiled as Zoisite rubbed his wounded face. “Here,” Kunzite said. He conjured an ice-crystal. “Look at that. Rich, rare, and beautiful. No curves, as sharp as a razor blade. Beautiful, but treacherous. That’s what you are, Zoisite. I strongly suggest that you meditate on that.” He smiled. “Have a nice day.” With that, he disappeared in a flash of purple energy.

Zoisite was too stunned to move. He looked at the ice-crystal Kunzite had given him. Beautiful, but treacherous. That’s what Kunzite-sama said.

Nephrite concentrated his energy, and the large glass doors opened silently. He stepped out into the chill night air. The figure at the end of the terrace hadn’t moved. As Nephrite got closer he was able to make out narrow hips and a slender, slightly defined body. When he got close enough to recognize the copper hair blowing wildly in the breeze, he stopped.

“You should be asleep,” he said. “Resting up for tomorrow’s training.”

Zoisite turned halfway and glanced at him out of the corner of his eye. “Isyour pupil asleep?” he asked with soft implication. Nephrite was stunned. He hadn’t expected such a brash response from the new student. Zoisite sighed and returned his gaze to something that he was holding in his hands. Nephrite leaned closer and opened the other man’s fingers. Inside was one of Kunzite’s ice crystals. He looked at Zoisite.

“Kunzite gave this to you?” he asked. Zoisite nodded silently. “Well then, he meant for you to learn to use it. I’ll tell you a secret. Kunzite never does anything without a purpose.”

Zoisite turned slowly to face him and as he did, Nephrite’s eyes rested on the dark bruise covering the younger man’s cheek. He grimaced.

“Kunzite should not treat his pupils so harshly,” he said.

For a moment, Zoisite’s eyes burned with anger. “I did it to myself,” he spat out. “By failing to please my lord Kunzite-sama!”

Nephrite sighed. “He’s pleased with you, no need to worry,” he said. At Zoisite’s look of confusion, he continued. “If he was displeased, he wouldn’t be pushing you so hard. He would have left you to fend for yourself. Believe me, I’ve seen him do it before. It is the ones he is most pleased with that he is the hardest on.”

Upon hearing this, Zoisite’s eyes lit up with tears and Nephrite was struck once again by the beauty of the boy’s perfect features. He gestured to the bruise on Zoisite’s cheek.

“It is a shame to mar such a beautiful face,” he said before he had thought. Zoisite looked up, as shocked by the comment as Nephrite himself. Removing his glove, Nephrite raised a hand towards Zoisite’s face. The younger man shrank back slightly. “Don’t worry,” assured Nephrite. “I’m not going to hurt you.” He placed his hand on Zoisite’s cheek. Closing his eyes, he concentrated healing energy over the wound. When he opened them again, the bruise was gone and the flesh underneath was pink and whole once again.

Still, Nephrite’s hand lingered, marveling at the silky smoothness of Zoisite’s skin. He had never seen another man so soft before. It confused him, made his thoughts go crazy. Almost without thinking, he brushed his thumb over Zoisite’s lips. The boy closed his eyes and let out a soft breath. Slowly, Nephrite moved in and brushed his lips to Zoisite’s. The fact that it was a man making him feel this way excited him in a way he couldn’t explain. Burying his other hand in Zoisite’s hair, he deepened the kiss.

Suddenly, Zoisite sucked in a breath and pulled away. Confused, Nephrite looked down and saw the reason. Zoisite must have been clenching Kunzite’s ice crystal too hard. His hand was covered with blood, and the crystal had shattered into sharp fragments. Zoisite looked at his hand then back up at Nephrite, his eyes going cold.

“Thank you, Lord Nephrite, for your assistance,” he said stiffly. “I must be getting back now. As you said, I need to rest for tomorrow’s training.” He then stooped to gather up the pieces of crystal that had fallen, and walked quickly from the terrace.

Left alone, Nephrite wondered what the hell had come over him. He knew that Kunzite sometimes enjoyed the company of men, but he himself had never been tempted. Especially when he had such a warm, enticing woman as Carnealite to go to! That image roused him. The insolent little pansy really got under my skin, he thought to himself sourly. I’ll just have to avoid him from now on. With that thought in his head, he headed back towards his chambers and Carnealite’s waiting arms.

Damned ice crystal, had to go and ruin everything! He put the sharp weapon away in a drawer. Kunzite’s words echoed in his ears. Beautiful, but treacherous...does that mean Kunzite-sama thinks I’m beautiful? And what Nephrite said about him...does Kunzite-sama really think I’m...Zoisite felt his head spinning. The urgent need for sleep was overwhelming his body. He lost his balance and fell on the bed. Seconds later he was sleeping, flashes of auburn locks caressing his dreams.

The next morning, Kunzite was the first to appear in the Training Yard. A few minutes later, a flurry of cherry blossoms burst near him. Zoisite saw his mentor and turned bright red.

“I’m sorry for being late, Kunzite-sama!” he begged as he bowed deeply. Kunzite didn’t answer, and it made Zoisite feel more uncomfortable.

“Fine,” Kunzite said after what seemed like an eternity. “Do not do this again.”

“I won’t, Kunzite-sama,” Zoisite replied shyly.

Kunzite smiled. In fact, he was the one who had come sooner than usual. “Today,” started the Arch-general, “I have to attend an important meeting with Queen Beryl.” He paused. Zoisite didn’t say anything. He didn’t want his mentor to smash his face again. “Nephrite will train you today,” continued the silver-haired man. Zoisite’s eyes lit up, but Kunzite didn’t remark on it. “Now we will wait for him.” Kunzite crossed his arms and turned his back to the pretty boy. Zoisite, a few meters away, did not hear his breath or see him move at all. Kunzite was like an ice statue.

A few minutes later, blue and orange energy signatures appeared. Nephrite and Carnealite were laughing together. They stopped immediately when they saw Kunzite facing them. Nephrite bowed slightly, more in a symbolic way then out of any respect for his superior. Kunzite’s face remained cold. He looked at Nephrite. The auburn-haired general automatically walked to him. Carnealite followed. As she passed, she gave Zoisite a look full of hate. The copper-haired man returned it with a smile.

“I’m taking your student today,” announced Kunzite.

“But...” Nephrite started. The Arch-general cut him off.

“No buts,” he said. “It’s the Queen’s orders.”

Carnealite was really afraid. In the Academy she had heard numerous stories about Kunzite. Her colleagues called him Ice King, or Mr. Freeze, for he was as cold as ice, exterminating without pity. There were even rumors that Kunzite was poisoning his students. She squeezed Nephrite’s arm.

Kunzite turned around and wrapped his cape around himself. “Would you care to follow me, miss?” he asked coldly.

As Kunzite walked away, Nephrite took the opportunity to reassure his lover. “As I said, he doesn’t even know your name. Don’t be afraid, it’s just a normal meeting with Queen Beryl. Tomorrow, you will be back with me.” He smiled at her. Carnealite smiled back and followed the silver-haired man in silence.

Damn! Nephrite thought as he was left alone with Zoisite. I had wanted to avoid that beauty, and now I’m stuck with him all day! Zoisite hadn’t looked at Nephrite. His attention was fixed on the point where Kunzite had disappeared. He didn’t hear Nephrite’s footsteps approaching him.

“Show me your hand,” Nephrite said.

Zoisite jumped and gasped, then turned to Nephrite. The auburn-haired general was amazed at how bright Zoisite’s green eyes were. His pink lips were opened slightly. Unsettled, Zoisite removed his eyes from Nephrite’s magnetic gaze and looked at his hand. His white glove was still tinted with blood. Zoisite removed it and held out his hand.

“Good,” Nephrite said. “You know how to heal yourself.”

Of course I know how, thought Zoisite. Who wouldn’t? Nephrite was just too overwhelmed with Zoisite’s beauty. He could smell a sweet fragrance–cherry blossoms–coming from the younger man. His hair seemed so soft, too...he needed to touch it once more.

Nephrite removed his gloves and buried his hands in Zoisite’s copper mane. Grabbing the back of his neck, he leaned him closer. Zoisite gasped in surprise as Nephrite’s mouth covered his own. This beautiful boy will be my damnation! Nephrite caressed Zoisite’s face, enjoying its softness. He wasn’t able to believe that this man was turning him on so much. He could feel his member growing and urgently pressing against the fabric of his uniform.

Zoisite didn’t think about anything. This feeling was so new to him! All of the boys at the Academy had called him a faggot, and none had ever approached him as Nephrite was doing right now. He felt Nephrite’s arms wrap around him as the older general teleported them both.

Nephrite threw Zoisite down on a pile of cushions and bent over him. He traced the green rims of Zoisite’s uniform, then unbuttoned the top. As soon as the flesh was exposed, Nephrite kissed his neck, making Zoisite gasp with pleasure. Nephrite sought out Zoisite’s body and caressed the slender angles, savoring the amazingly new sensation under his fingers. He had never experienced such soft skin, even among the numerous women he had bedded.

Zoisite felt Nephrite’s hardness against his thigh. He knew that he had to free himself in some way also. To speed up the process, he slid his hands under Nephrite’s jacket and played with his rock-hard nipples. The auburn-haired general groaned and nibbled delicately on Zoisite’s chest. He removed Zoisite’s jacket and left a hot trail of kisses down his chest, all the way to his pants. He started to play with the belt, feeling Zoisite’s muscles contract under his fingers. Zoisite ran his fingers through Nephrite’s thick hair and moaned slightly. He massaged the strong shoulders and closed his eyes. He was unable to breathe normally. All his breath was coming out as gasps and moans.

Nephrite concentrated his energy. In a blue flash the remaining garments disappeared, and both men lay naked. The older general bent over the copper-haired man and kissed him deeply, pressing his large shaft against Zoisite’s hard member.

Take me Nephrite! Zoisite urged with his mind. Nephrite grabbed Zoisite’s hips and brought them up to meet his own. He caressed his partner’s cock, playing with the little blonde locks surrounding it. The slender man arched his back and threw back his head, gasping for air. Nephrite wet a finger in his mouth and caressed Zoisite’s anal opening. Zoisite let out a small cry of pleasure as he anticipated what was to come. As he expected, Nephrite slid the finger inside him, feeling his tightness. That’s so tight! Nephrite thought.I’ll have to be careful not to harm him. Nephrite met Zoisite’s begging eyes and leaned in for a kiss. As he did so, he pressed the tip of his penis against Zoisite’s opening, entering him slowly. Zoisite clapped his hands over his mouth to muffle his scream. Tears ran down his burning cheeks, but Nephrite quickly kissed them away. He remained still inside Zoisite, giving him a chance to adjust to the pain. Then slowly, he began to ram his dick inside Zoisite, who let out loud moans as the pleasure overtook the pain. Nephrite had never felt such tightness around his cock. He wished he could release himself right away, but he wanted to give his partner pleasure too.

Taking Zoisite’s penis in his hand, he began to masturbate him. The pretty boy had to bite one of his knuckles to keep from screaming. His sweet cries were enchanting music to Nephrite’s ears. Soon Nephrite could not take any more, and increased his pace. He groaned as he splashed his hot semen into Zoisite’s ass. Panting heavily, he slowed down his thrusts and continued to rub Zoisite’s cock, massaging his balls. He felt Zoisite’s muscles spasm around him as the slender man ejaculated over his belly.

Nephrite fell over Zoisite. They remained still for a while. Nephrite concentrated his energy, and in a flash they were both cleaned. Their breathing returned to normal. Nephrite went to kiss his beautiful lover and realized that he was already asleep, a contented smile upon his lips.

“Well, I suppose we should work on something.” he said. “We wouldn’t want to make Kunzite unhappy with you.”

Zoisite’s face paled at the thought. “No, we wouldn’t.”

Nephrite walked to Zoisite and took his face in his hands. “Listen to me,” he said softly. “Kunzite is a difficult teacher. The harshest teacher to ever take on students in the Dark Kingdom. But I don’t think you have anything to fear from him. You are a remarkable student, both talented and beautiful. He’s lucky to have you.”

Zoisite’s eyes filled with tears, which Nephrite quickly kissed away. Then his mouth moved to Zoisite’s lips, and he kissed him deeply. But when his hands began to travel Zoisite’s lean body, the boy pulled away.

“Training, remember?” he asked with a small smile.

Nephrite sighed. “Okay, show me what you’ve learned so far.”

Zoisite went through everything he knew, blasting numerous targets with dead-on accuracy and strength. Nephrite was amazed at how quickly Zoisite was learning. I’ll have to work harder with Carnealite if we are going to beat this one, he thought to himself. When Zoisite was finished, he looked at Nephrite expectantly.

“Very good,” Nephrite remarked. “Anything else?”

Zoisite smiled. “Just one thing,” he said. Then he held out his hand, palm upwards, and closed his eyes. His face became strained as he concentrated. Slowly, a blue light began to shine above his outstretched palm. Nephrite bent forward, intrigued. The blue light dwindled and sharpened, until a perfectly-shaped ice crystal hung suspended over Zoisite’s hand. Nephrite whistled.

“Now when did you learn to do that?” he asked. “I only just saw you with Kunzite’s crystal last night.”

Zoisite smiled devilishly. “I worked on it this afternoon while you were sleeping,” he answered.

Nephrite’s eyebrows arched and he advanced on Zoisite slowly. “I see,” he said in a low voice. “You are quite the clever one. Kunzite had better keep his eye on you.” When he had reached Zoisite, he wrapped his arms around the other man’s hips, pulling him closer until he could feel Zoisite’s semi-hard shaft pressed against his own. He looked into his eyes. Their lips were so close that Zoisite could feel Nephrite’s breath. He smiled.

Then suddenly there were two bright flashes of energy, one purple and one red. Zoisite gasped as Nephrite jumped back, pushing him away. He looked up as Kunzite and Carnealite approached.

“My lord Kunzite-sama!” Zoisite said hastily, bowing to one knee.

Carnealite fairly ran to Nephrite, who put an arm around her. “How was the meeting?” he asked casually.

Kunzite walked over to stand in front of Zoisite. “Queen Beryl was not in a good mood,” he said. “Rise, Zoisite, I am anxious to see what you have learned in my absence.”

“Yes, Kunzite-sama,” Zoisite answered. He stood and opened his palm. The crystal appeared over it. Zoisite bowed his head and waited for Kunzite’s response. The arch-general didn’t say anything for a moment. Then he reached out and took the crystal, looking it over.

“Nephrite taught you this?” he asked suspiciously.

“He....helped me, Kunzite-sama.” Zoisite answered.

Kunzite let out a breath angrily, causing Zoisite to jump. “I am losing patience!” he said sharply. “Is that all you learned today Zoisite?” .

Zoisite looked to Nephrite for help, but the auburn-haired man had turned his back to him and was holding Carnealite, whispering something in her ear. Zoisite’s eyes narrowed. He held out his hand, concentrating all of his energy. The crystal flew out of Kunzite’s hand and back to Zoisite’s, causing the silver-haired man to blink in surprise. Then Zoisite whipped his hand out, pointing with two fingers at the couple. The ice crystal flew between them, just narrowly missing Carnealite’s throat, and the two jumped apart in shock.

Zoisite smiled smugly and held out his hand. The crystal spun in midair and returned to his waiting palm. Kunzite threw back his head and laughed.

“Ahh, my tempestuous little Zoisite!” he said. “Not bad.” Zoisite beamed. But just then Kunzite grabbed him by the back of the neck and pulled his head forward until their faces were only inches apart. “However,” continued Kunzite menacingly, “I fear you have forgotten your place. Lord Nephrite, although he may not act like it, is a General. If you ever tried something like that on me, there would not be enough of that beautiful face left over to gloat. Do I make myself clear?”

“Yes, Kunzite-sama!” Zoisite gasped.

Still, Kunzite did not let go of the back of his neck. His eyes searched Zoisite’s face, and their lips were nearly touching. Zoisite felt his heart start to pound as the silver-haired general looked into his eyes. Then suddenly, Kunzite released him. Zoisite was so surprised that he almost fell backward. When he regained his balance, Kunzite stood a few feet away, his back turned.

“Go to your chambers,” the Arch-general said. “You are finished training for today.” Then he disappeared in a flash.

Carnealite, having recovered from her shock, clenched her fists and charged at the beautiful young man. Nephrite caught her mid-stride and grabbed both her hands in his.

“No!” he commanded. “Zoisite is far too strong for you right now. Let it go!”

Carnealite’s mouth twisted in hatred. “I’m going to kill that pansy-ass!” she swore.

Nephrite didn’t answer. He looked over at Zoisite, who’s eyes were fixed on the spot where Kunzite had disappeared.

“What are you doing here?” he asked angrily.

“I needed to see you,” Nephrite answered.

Zoisite’s eyes narrowed.. “Where’s your little female?” he inquired.

Nephrite watched him. “Carnealite is practicing in the Training Yard,” he said. “After seeing what you can do, she’s determined to beat you in Queen Beryl’s competition.”

Zoisite snorted, but said nothing.

“I don’t like you threatening my student like that,” Nephrite continued. Zoisite turned to him angrily.

“Then why are you here?” he demanded. “Why don’t you just go back to your precious little student and train her like you’re supposed to? Why don’t you leave me in peace?”

Nephrite moved closer, a smile on his lips. “Because,” he said. “Watching you use your power like that turned me on more than you could ever imagine. You have no idea how exciting that temper of yours can be.”

Zoisite turned away. “I have no desire to share you with a weak youma. If you want me, you need to want me as more than just a plaything.”

Nephrite put his hand on Zoisite’s face, turning it back to face him. “It’s not a question of wanting,” he said deeply. He moved his face to within inches of Zoisite’s. “I need you, Zoisite. I can’t look at you without needing to touch you.” Moving his hand into Zoisite’s loose curls, he brought his lips forward and kissed him passionately. When he pulled back, they were both breathless.

“Nephrite...” Zoisite breathed. He reached out his arms. In a flash, Nephrite’s clothes disappeared. He stepped into the bath. The water was hot and steamy, and brought his skin to tingling life as he sank down. Leaning forward, he sucked at Zoisite’s chest, running his tongue around the small nipples. Zoisite sighed, burying his fingers in Nephrite’s hair. Nephrite began to kiss his way down Zoisite’s body, when the boy stopped him. Nephrite looked up in confusion.

“It’s your turn,” Zoisite whispered. Smiling, he pushed Nephrite back until he was once again sitting on the edge of the bath. Zoisite delicately pushed Nephrite’s legs wide apart, his mouth watering at the sight of Nephrite’s bulging member. Taking it in his hand, he flicked his tongue lightly over the swollen head. Nephrite groaned in pleasure. Zoisite ran his tongue up the length of the shaft, then covered the entire thing with his mouth. Slowly, he began to move his head up and down, alternately licking and sucking. Nephrite was going crazy. He let out a cry as Zoisite took his entire member, right down to the base, and started to massage his balls. Grabbing either side of Zoisite’s head, he began to fuck the pretty boy’s mouth. Zoisite adjusted the movement of his hand to Nephrite’s rhythm, and sucked long and hard every time the general pulled back. Nephrite couldn’t take it any longer. He began to speed up his pace, supporting himself with is arms as Zoisite rode up and down with the movement of his hips. The tip of Nephrite’s shaft was bumping the back of Zoisite’s throat, but the younger man didn’t mind. As Nephrite came with one last, violent thrust, Zoisite swallowed every drop of semen that the auburn-haired man pumped into him.

Nephrite collapsed back onto the side of the bath, exhausted. As Zoisite moved up Nephrite’s body, the general wrapped his hands in Zoisite’s curls and kissed him deeply. Zoisite loved the feel of Nephrite’s hands in his hair. His own cock was screaming for attention. Desperately, he began to rub it up and down on Nephrite’s thigh. Nephrite pulled his face away from Zoisite and smiled.

“Now, you didn’t think I’d forget about you, did you?” he asked, his voice husky. Zoisite moaned in anticipation as Nephrite lifted him out of the water and carried him to the bed, throwing him onto the pillows. Zoisite’s moans grew louder as Nephrite proceeded to lick every drop of water from his trembling body. When he was done, Nephrite returned to Zoisite’s lips and kissed him deeply, their tongues flicking across each other. With his fingers, he felt for the rim of Zoisite’s anal opening, massaging and teasing it until the younger man was crying out for mercy. Throwing Zoisite’s legs across his shoulders, he thrust into him. Zoisite screamed with pleasure as Nephrite began to ride his ass. Taking Zoisite’s fully-hard member in his hand, he began to jack him in time with his thrusts. Zoisite cried out again and again as Nephrite’s thrusts got deeper and harder. Nephrite kept himself and his partner at the brink of release, slowing down and speeding up accordingly, until he could no longer stand it. Grabbing Zoisite’s hips, he plunged into him one last time, emptying his load into Zoisite’s ass. Then he waited until Zoisite began to thrust his hips, seeking his own release, before taking the other man’s cock and jerking up and down as fast as he could. Zoisite came with the power of a freight-train, screaming Nephrite’s name. With a smile, Nephrite licked the semen off of his fingers with his tongue, then bent and kissed Zoisite as hard as he could. The taste of himself on Nephrite’s lips excited Zoisite tremedously, and he held the kiss until the two of them were breathless.

Finally, Nephrite collapsed on top of Zoisite, who wrapped his slender arms around the auburn man’s back.

“How did I ever get along without you?” Nephrite whispered into Zoisite’s ear. Zoisite smiled as he and his lover fell asleep in each other’s arms.

Upon arriving, he saw a bright red flash and automatically hid behind a column. Peeking around, he recognized Carnealite’s hair. The pretty woman was practicing her fireball attacks, violently smashing practice targets. Zoisite looked at her face. She was concentrating hard, her eyebrows furrowed.

“Pansy-ass,” she whispered. Zoisite had to stop himself from laughing out loud. Carnealite threw one last fireball, stronger than the others. “We’ll see who will win, Zoisite!” she yelled. Zoisite couldn’t handle it. It was unbearable!

“Ooh, I’m terrified!” he teased.

Carnealite spun around and gasped as she saw the feminine boy sitting cross-legged in the air. She wanted to attack him, but quickly reeled herself in. “Get out of my way, faggot!”

Zoisite giggled sweetly and started to play with his blonde locks. “Is it just me, or is your teacher better in bed than he is in the Training Yard?”

Carnealite blushed furiously. Then she shook herself and snickered. “Hmm...” she said. “I forgot that fem-boys like you were only into men. Am I right? That may explain why you are so attached to your Kunzite-sama! Speaking of which, maybe you have some feelings for Nephrite too? I heard numerous stories about you back at the Academy. You were called ‘The little bedwarmer!’” She paused and looked into Zoisite’s darkening face. “Oooooh! You look angry, Zoisite! Have I discovered one of your secrets? Everyone in the Dark Kingdom has heard about you being Kunzite’s pupil. I can add, without a doubt, that many bets have already been placed on Queen Beryl’s competition—in my favor, of course!”

Zoisite was about to blow.

“Ahah!” Carnealite continued. “Red is not a color that suits your pretty face, Zoisite!”

Zoisite would have liked to kill her, but he knew how displeased Kunzite and Queen Beryl would have been. He restrained himself. “You’re a dead woman,” he said calmly, his eyes glowing green. Then he teleported back to his quarters.

When he returned he saw Nephrite, still asleep on his bed. He stood near the bed and looked down at Nephrite’s handsome features. I’m just a playmate for him, he thought bitterly. A little bedwarmer....He felt a tear run down his cheek. Walking to his drawer he picked up Kunzite’s ice crystal and disappeared.

Zoisite teleported back to the balcony where Nephrite had first kissed him. The night was cold and dark. He clasped the ice crystal to his chest, cradling it like a baby. He could feel his eyelids closing of their own accord, but he didn’t want to go back to Nephrite. The cold air chilling his body was almost euphoric. His soft lips were turning blue, but he didn’t care.

“You will catch pneumonia if you stay out here,” said a deep voice behind him. Zoisite jumped as two hands placed a heavy white cloth over his shoulders. Turning around, he gasped.

“Kunzite-sama!!” He bowed automatically in front of his superior.

Kunzite didn’t say anything. He turned his back to his pupil. “Come inside,” he said.

Zoisite noticed something different about Kunzite. His cape was missing! Zoisite then realized that Kunzite’s cape was over his own shoulders. He quickly followed his mentor inside and removed the cape.

“Your cape, Kunzite-sama.” He held it out. Kunzite turned back and looked into Zoisite’s bright eyes as he took it.

“Thank you,” he said calmly, without removing his eyes from Zoisite. He saw that his pupil was holding the ice crystal. “What are you doing with that?” he asked as he sat down in a large armchair.

What to answer? Zoisite wasn’t even sure himself. “I...I don’t know, Kunzite-sama.” He bowed his head.

“Were you practicing?”

Zoisite shook his head and his blonde curls moved from side to side. Kunzite was amazed at how warm and soft Zoisite looked. He stood and moved over to him. “Here,” he said. “Turn around, I want to show you something.”

The young man turned reluctantly, expecting the worst from his master. He closed his eyes tightly, but then opened them in shock as he felt Kunzite’s body press against his back. Two strong hands took his own. Zoisite was breathless. How could he be this close to his lord Kunzite?

Kunzite clasped Zoisite’s hands together. “Now,” he said. “Close your eyes.” Zoisite did as he was ordered. “Imagine fire,” continued the silver-haired man. “Streams of fire passing from one hand to the other.”

The only fire Zoisite could think of was the one which was running down his spine. He didn’t notice that his hands were separating, and red-hot flames were escaping his palms. Zoisite’s heart was beating fast, and his head began to spin. Suddenly, he lost his balance. In his half-conscious state, he felt Kunzite’s strong arms around his waist.

“I guess that was too much for tonight,” Kunzite said in his ear. “We’ll practice it another time.” Zoisite could feel the arch-general’s breath on his hair. He tried to wrestle out of Kunzite’s arms before he went crazy. He managed to walk only a little way before he fell again. For the second time, Kunzite’s arms imprisoned him.

“You’re not yet strong enough for this kind of magic,” Kunzite said. His rich, warm voice echoed in Zoisite’s ears. Zoisite could not slow down his heart, which was running like hell. Just trying to stand up correctly was making him breathless. Involuntarily, he wrapped his arms around his master’s neck. Against his back, he felt Kunzite’s heartbeat accelerate a little, but he was too stunned to know what was going on around him. All he knew was that Kunzite was there. Kunzite. He could almost feel the taller man’s mouth over his skin, and his piercing eyes roving his body. Zoisite felt his member growing in his pants. He gasped as Kunzite moved one of his hands. Zoisite couldn’t take it anymore. Slowly, he turned his trembling body to face his mentor, who looked down at him.

“Take it easy,” Kunzite whispered. His mouth was so close to Zoisite’s. The young man tilted his head back and pulled Kunzite’s face to his. As their lips met, he kissed him passionately. With his tongue Zoisite explored Kunzite’s mouth, caressing every part of it. He savored its taste, memorizing all the new sensations. He played gently with Kunzite’s silky hair, twisting it around his slender fingers.

When they parted, both were breathless. Kunzite looked at Zoisite, confused. As the young man opened his eyes, he realized what he had done. He gasped in shock and felt his eyes watering, then escaped from his master’s arms and ran away from the room as silent tears ran down his face.

When he reached his bedroom, Nephrite was gone. Zoisite fell on the bed and sobbed. How could I do that? Kunzite-sama will kill me now!....but then, who cares if I die? Life without Kunzite-sama.....Zoisite stopped mid-thought and blinked. Why do I care about him so much?

“There, there, that would just be pointless,” he said.

“He’s a plague on my existence!” she shouted.

“What has he done this time?” Nephrite asked.

“He insulted me. Again!”

Nephrite sighed. “Don’t you think this is getting a little childish, my love?”

Carnealite whirled to face him. “Are you defending him?” she demanded.

Nephrite’s eyes narrowed. “You know I wouldn’t do that,” he answered. Then his face softened. “Aww, Carney...” He hugged her tighter. “I know what would be good for you,” he whispered in her ear. She giggled as he began to lick her ears and suck on her neck. His hands found their way under her jacket and cupped her firm breasts. She pushed him away. Nephrite looked at her with confusion on his face. She gave him a kinky look, then kneeled. With a click of her fingers, Nephrite’s belt unbuckled by itself. She played with his trousers then pulled them down, exposing his rock-hard dick. She kissed the top of it, then delicately brushed her tongue over the length of the shaft. Nephrite gasped and threw back his head as she engulfed the entire thing in her mouth. He was very pleased with this new home life.

“You’re too good to me, Carney, my love.”

Carnealite’s sapphire eyes lit up. “What does my lover want now?” she asked.

“The same as you,” Nephrite answered.

“All right then.....” Carnealite stood up and stepped away from him. Slowly she started to caress her own body, massaging her breasts and her cunt. She unbuttoned her jacket and threw it onto the floor. Her black bra gave her skin a milky tint. She unclasped her pants. Black panties were revealed to Nephrite’s eyes. He smiled slowly at her.

“May I have permission to taste you?” he asked. Carnealite quickly nodded. Nephrite pulled down the remainder of her sexy underwear. Pushing her legs apart, he urgently brought his tongue up to her most sensitive parts. He greedily drank in her love juice, circling her pink bud with his tongue, making her moan loudly. She wrapped one leg over his shoulder and put one hand on the wall to keep her balance.

“What an uncomfortable position for you to be in!” exclaimed Nephrite. Taking her in his arms, he laid her on the bed. Immediately, he returned his attention between her perfect legs, sucking on her clit as he finger-fucked her. He could feel her muscles tightening around his fingers.

“Nephrite!” she cried. “That’s so good!”

She screamed as she came, squeezing her breasts between her hands. Nephrite drank her precious love juice, running his tongue along her opening in long strokes to clean every last drop. Carnealite fell back breathlessly on the bed, her eyes closed.

“Sleep well, my love.” Nephrite kissed her passionately and curled up tightly around her.

Zoisite looked up at Kunzite, eyes already full of tears. Kunzite looked tired. No, it’s just my imagination. Zoisite thought. Kunzite-sama is too strong and proud. He would never show any sign of weakness.

“Forgive me, Kunzite-sama,” he managed to say, his throat closing on the last word. Kunzite walked toward him. Zoisite closed his eyes tightly, so that he would not flinch when his master killed him. He waited for the fatal strike, but it didn’t come.

“Zoisite...” started Kunzite.

He was interrupted as two people materialized nearby. It was Nephrite and Carnealite. Carnealite shot a deadly look at the slender man. Seeing his eyes full of tears, she decided to take advantage of the opportunity and insult him.

“What’s wrong, Zoisite?” she taunted. “You don’t look as proud as you did last night, do you?”

“Nephrite!” Kunzite cut in immediately. “I would appreciate it if you would teach your pupil to keep her mouth shut in front of superiors.” Carnealite’s eyes widened.

Just then Queen Beryl’s voice rang in Kunzite’s mind. *KUNZITE! PRESENT YOURSELF AT ONCE!*

“The queen calls me,” Kunzite said to his student. “No training today. Go back to your chambers and try to meditate on what you learned last night.” With that, he vanished. Zoisite looked in disbelief at the place where he had just been. He began to walk away in order to follow his mentor’s orders, when a hand grabbed his wrist. He spun around.

“You’ll pay for this!” Carnealite hissed. Disgustedly, she threw Zoisite’s hand away. Zoisite looked up at Nephrite. The general’s cold glare sent chills down Zoisite’s spine. He narrowed his eyes and in a burst of cherry blossom petals, disappeared.

Back in his chambers, Zoisite sat on his bed. Kunzite wanted him to meditate on what he had learned last night. He tried to remember, but in his mind all he could see was Kunzite: his gaze, his arms, his hair, his mouth....his clasped hands....He could feel Kunzite’s hands over his body, touching him intimately as his hair brushed Zoisite’s pretty face. He could feel his member begging for urgent release.

Zoisite opened his eyes in shock. Red streams of fire were dancing in his palms. Perfectly. Red, orange, and yellow, twisting together. Stunned, Zoisite watched his hands as the fire passed from one to the other in a continuous circle. He concentrated a little more. Between his gloved hands there was now a huge ball of fire. Zoisite shouted and threw the ball to the opposite wall of his room, smashing his bureau into pieces. Still sitting, he looked at what was left of the bureau. He extended his hand, and a new bureau appeared, an exact copy of the original. He smiled in satisfaction. Then, exhausted from the energy he had just spent, he collapsed back on the bed and fell asleep.

When he awoke, Nephrite was sitting beside him. Zoisite blinked but remained silent.

“You look beautiful when you sleep,” the auburn-haired general said.

Zoisite caught a whiff of alcohol on Nephrite’s breath. “You’ve been drinking,” he remarked.

Nephrite’s face darkened. “What do you expect me to do, having to deal with both sides of this childish battle between you and Carnealite?” he demanded.

“Leave me alone,” Zoisite said as he turned his back to Nephrite, eager to get back to his dreams. Nephrite moved beside him and pulled his body against his own. Gently, he began to caress Zoisite’s ass. Zoisite delicately removed Nephrite’s hand from his body and put it aside. “No,” he said. Kunzite. It was Kunzite who was overwhelming Zoisite’s mind. The little bishonen felt his mind drift back to sleep.

“I want you, Zoisite,” Nephrite murmured in his ear.

“Hmm....Kunzite,” Zoisite moaned.

Nephrite’s eyes narrowed. “What did you say?” he demanded.

Zoisite came fully awake again. “Nephrite?” he said. “Please leave me alone.”

Nephrite crawled on top of Zoisite. “I can’t do that,” he said. “I want you!” He covered Zoisite’s mouth with his.

Zoisite shook his head away. “No!” he shouted. “Not now! Go and get your female!”

Nephrite frowned. Zoisite tried to get up, but the older man pulled him back. “I’ve put up with your shit long enough Zoisite,” he warned. “When I say now, I mean now!” Zoisite pushed him away again. Nephrite lost his patience. He grabbed both of Zoisite’s arms.

“Let me go!” the younger boy screamed. “You’re hurting me!”

Nephrite didn’t listen. He pushed Zoisite down on his back against the bed. The general blinked his eyes, and Zoisite found himself naked.

“Nephrite, no!” he shouted again. In desperation, he brought his knee up hard into Nephrite’s stomach. The general grunted. Zoisite took the opportunity to try and get away, but Nephrite threw him back on the bed and smashed his face with his fist. Zoisite tasted blood mixed with tears. Before he could recover, Nephrite flipped him onto his stomach, spread his legs apart, and violently shoved in his dick. Zoisite gasped in pain, not even able to scream. As Nephrite began to thrust into him, Zoisite tried to escape. Nephrite held his arms firmly, twisting them behind his back. Each of his thrusts brought a muffled cry from Zoisite. Zoisite bit his lower lip to keep from screaming. He didn’t want to give Nephrite the satisfaction of hearing him scream. Then in a groan, Nephrite shot his load into Zoisite.

The young man decided to try his magic. He concentrated as best he could, and a powerful blast hit Nephrite in the back. The older man collapsed on top of Zoisite, making him choke for air. Nephrite rubbed his back, then pulled Zoisite violently up and threw him onto his back.

“You wanna play rough?” he snorted. Pressing his knee into Zoisite’s ribcage, he pushed with all his weight. There was a loud crack sound, followed by Zoisite’s screams of pain. Nephrite removed himself and grinned.

“I guess Kunzite didn’t teach you enough about who the masters are here,” he sneered. Conjuring some clothes for himself, he vanished.

Zoisite gasped and clenched his fists. He couldn’t breathe properly. He tried to stand, but fell back, unconscious, onto the bed.

*Zoisite, report to the Training Yard at once.*

There was no answer from the bishonen, but Kunzite could feel something....not quite right about his student’s energy signature. Frowning, he gathered his energy and teleported to Zoisite’s chambers.

At first, nothing seemed unusual. Zoisite was nowhere to be seen in the main room, or the entrance hall. Kunzite stepped into the bedchamber, and froze in shock. Zoisite lay on the bed, naked and unconscious. The boy’s beautiful face was bruised and covered in blood, and he was wheezing softly. There was also a growing pool of blood staining the sheets beneath him. Kunzite’s eyes darkened frighteningly. It didn’t take a genius to figure out what had happened to his pupil.

Wordlessly, Kunzite crossed to the figure on the bed. Unhooking his cape, he threw it over the boy’s prone body. Zoisite’s eyes slowly blinked open.

“Kunzite-sama,” he whispered. Uselessly, he tried to get up. Kunzite pushed him back down gently.

“What do you think you’re doing?” he asked softly. “Lie back. Everything will be alright.”

Zoisite started to cry. “I’m sorry, Kunzite-sama!” he choked. “I know I should be training, but...” then he began to cough too hard to talk. A fleck of blood landed on Kunzite’s cape. Kunzite’s face tightened in pain as he looked down at his student. Even hurt like this, he is worried about pleasing me.....

Pushing a lock of white hair out of his eyes, Kunzite bent down to work. Zoisite was fading fast. Using his hands, Kunzite felt lightly over the other man’s body, checking for internal injuries. Zoisite’s problems breathing, along with the blood he had coughed up, indicated a problem with the lungs...Kunzite placed his hands on either side of Zoisite’s chest. Closing his eyes, he felt with his mind to the source of the problem. Two of Zoisite’s ribs were broken, and one of them had punctured the lung. Concentrating, Kunzite sent wave after wave of healing energy into the other man’s body. Beneath his hands he could feel the bones knitting back together into their original places. Kunzite concentrated his energy on the lung itself, and slowly Zoisite’s breathing returned to normal.

Kunzite was sweating, but he refused to stop. He placed a hand gingerly on the side of Zoisite’s face, healing the bruises. Then he waved his hand again, cleaning off the blood and tear-stains. Zoisite’s face was beautiful once again, but still pinched in pain. Kunzite considered how to best help the last problem, then sighed. There was only one thing to do. As carefully as if he was handling a baby, he turned Zoisite onto his stomach, with his lap across Kunzite’s legs. Zoisite whimpered. Kunzite bent down and whispered softly in his ear.

“I’m sorry.”

Then, as gently as he could, he slid a finger into Zoisite’s opening. The younger man cried out in shock and pain. Kunzite closed his eyes and concentrated a stream of healing energy into Zoisite. After a while, Zoisite’s muscles relaxed, and the bleeding stopped. Kunzite removed his finger and turned Zoisite back over. Zoisite looked up at him, dazed.

“Kunzite...” he whispered. Then he started to cry. Without a word, Kunzite wrapped his arms around his student, and Zoisite clung to him as he sobbed like he would never stop. When he had exhausted himself, Kunzite delicately picked him up, cradling the slender man to his chest, and teleported to his own quarters. There he laid Zoisite down on the bed and covered him with blankets. Zoisite looked at him in confusion.

“Kunzite-sama, what....”

“I thought that perhaps another bed might be more comfortable for you” Kunzite soothed, the unspoken implication not going unnoticed by Zoisite. The copper-haired man smiled slightly.

“Thank you Kunzite-sama,” he whispered. Then his head collapsed back onto the pillows, and he was asleep.

“Thinking about me?” asked Nephrite with a smile.

The red-haired girl gasped and opened her eyes in shock. Then she sighed in relief as she saw that it was her lover. “Oh, Nephrite, it’s you.”

“Disappointed?” he asked.

“Not at all.” She gave him a kinky look then blew a kiss. Nephrite smiled. How sweet Carnealite was. So different from that little Zoisite. Nephrite’s face darkened as he thought about what he had done in the last hour. Carnealite saw his expression. She sat down behind him and started to rub his back. As soon as she touched him Nephrite arched his back in pain. It still hurt quite a bit from Zoisite’s blast. Carnealite quickly removed her hands and laid them on his shoulders.

“Nephrite, love, what’s wrong?” she asked.

Nephrite’s eyes narrowed. “I think I’ve done something real bad, Carney.” His eyes were fixed on nothing.

Carnealite giggled. “We are in the Dark Kingdom. It’s normal for you to do bad things, no? What have you done you bad, bad guy?”

“I intentionally hurt Kunzite’s student,” Nephrite answered simply.

“That little faggot?” Carnealite exclaimed. “He deserves it, the fucking pansy-ass! Is he hurt badly?”

Nephrite took some seconds before answering. “More then he really deserved, I think.”

“Did you kill him?” questioned the girl.

Again, Nephrite was unsure of how to answer. Should he tell his lover the truth? She would never forgive him if...

The general’s thoughts were interrupted as someone knocked on the door. Another blonde general entered.

“Jadeite,” Nephrite said. “What are you doing here?”

Jadeite bowed. “I have a message from our Queen.”

“Yes,” Nephrite prompted. “I’m listening.”

Jadeite had a quick look at Carnealite, then continued. “The competition between your student and Kunzite’s will be held in ten days.” Jadeite bowed again and turned around to leave. Nephrite stopped him.

“Does Kunzite know about this?” he asked.

“I don’t know,” the blonde man replied.

“Don’t tell him,” said Carnealite.

Jadeite frowned. “I don’t take orders from you,” he answered her. “Anyway, I have no orders to inform Kunzite.” With that, he bowed and disappeared.

“Why would the Queen tell you, and not Kunzite?” asked the red-haired girl as soon as Jadeite had disappeared.

“It must be because Kunzite already knows,” Nephrite answered thoughtfully. “Now, you go to the Training Yard and practice. I have something I need to do.”

*KUNZITE! REPORT TO THE THRONEROOM AT ONCE!* Queen Beryl’s voice rang in Kunzite’s head. He brushed Zoisite’s hair a little.

“I’ll be back soon,” he said softly.

Zoisite clutched at his hand. “Don’t leave me,” he begged.

Kunzite almost melted at the sight of those bright green eyes filling with tears. “I’ll be back soon,” he repeated.

“Kunzite-sama,” Zoisite whispered. “I don’t want to fight anymore.”

Kunzite would have liked to kiss those sweet pink lips. He bent down a little. “Shh, we’ll talk about that later.”

*KUNZITE! WHEN I SAY NOW, IT’S NOW!*

Reluctantly the silver-haired man straightened, then with one last look at his student, vanished in a purple flash.

He was surprised to find himself in Kunzite’s quarters, which he recognized as the richest and most beautiful in all of the Dark Kingdom. Before going any further, he searched with his mind for Kunzite. He’s not here, but Zoisite is. Walking to Kunzite’s bedchamber, he softly opened the massive wooden doors and instantly spotted Zoisite’s copper hair in the large bed.

Zoisite stirred as he felt a presence near him. Through his long eyelashes, he saw a thick mass of auburn hair. His eyes opened in shock.

Nephrite crossed his arms as he looked down on him. “Remember what will happen every time you disobey me,” he said. Then he looked around. “You didn’t make out so bad,” he commented. “Kunzite is taking good care of you, it seems.”

“You.....” Zoisite tried to move away, but his face twisted in pain.

“Don’t even try to get away you treacherous little rat, you’ll just hurt yourself.”

Zoisite swore. He couldn’t stand to be in this situation!

Nephrite moved closer. “I do hope you’ll recover soon,” he said softly. He began to caress Zoisite’s hair and the back of his neck. “There are still a lot of pleasant times to be had, wouldn’t you say?”

Zoisite’s eyes narrowed in hatred, and he shuddered away. “I don’t think so, Lord Nephrite.”

Nephrite removed his hand. “Well, I wish you a swift recovery anyway,” he said. “The competition is in ten days, and I wouldn’t want Carnealite to kill you in the first round.” Then he turned and vanished.

Alone, Zoisite clenched his fists. You’ll pay for this, he swore. You and your little female! Zoisite’s eyes glowed as he began to smile and grin demonically.

“Zoisite, what do you think you’re doing?” Kunzite demanded, running over to lift the slender form in his arms. Zoisite’s body was drenched with sweat.

“Please, Kunzite-sama, let me go!” he urged. “The competition is only ten days away, and I will win!”

Kunzite’s eyes narrowed. “Who told you about that?” he demanded. Zoisite only shook his head.

Despite the smaller boy’s protests, Kunzite lifted him up and back into the bed. “Zoisite, it is madness to attempt training in your condition!” he insisted. “You need to rest for a while, and give your strength time to rebuild.”

Zoisite looked up at his master with some of the old fire in his eyes. “Please, Kunzite-sama!” he pressed. “I cannot do this without your help!”

Kunzite studied his pupil, amazed at the change in him. Zoisite’s eyes had cleared, and the old willful look was back on his face. “What happened while I was gone?” he questioned.

Zoisite smiled “I rediscovered my motivation,” he answered softly.

Kunzite gently wiped the sweat from Zoisite’s face as he considered. “All right,” he said finally. “Rest for tonight. You’re exhausted. Then, in the morning, I will help you, but only if you do as I say and rest when you need to. You’re still quite weak, and the last thing we need is for you to hurt yourself again.”

Zoisite closed his eyes and smiled. “Thank you, Kunzite-sama,” he whispered. Then his head nodded and he fell asleep.

Kunzite looked down at his student for a long time. What could have happened to make him so determined? he wondered. Gently, he placed a hand on Zoisite’s forehead.I hate to do this, he thought. But it’s the only way....Closing his eyes, he felt with his mind for the wispy tendrils of Zoisite’s thoughts. When he touched them he searched back, as delicately as he could, for the young man’s memories of the last day. Zoisite began to moan softly on the bed, and Kunzite lightened his touch. Through Zoisite’s mind’s eye, he saw the events of the past day, and his eyes sprung open in shock.

Nephrite! He thought angrily. I should have known that wretch was behind this! Zoisite moaned again. Ashamed, Kunzite removed his hand from the boy’s head and began to brush his hair back softly.

“I am sorry for that intrusion,” he whispered to the sleeping Zoisite. Then he sent a wave of soothing energy into the smaller man. Zoisite immediately stopped moaning and lay still. “Sleep peacefully now,” Kunzite prodded. Then he moved away from the bed and sat himself in a large armchair, never taking his eyes off of Zoisite.

*NEPHRITE! BRING YOUR STUDENT AND REPORT TO THE THRONEROOM AT ONCE!!*

Nephrite sighed and rubbed his eyes. So much for a relaxing morning, he thought. Carnealite was still sleeping peacefully, a contented smile on her lips. Nephrite watched her for a moment, then reached out and shook her gently. Her sapphire eyes slowly blinked open. When she saw Nephrite, she smiled and stretched. Nephrite ran a finger lightly down her nose, and she giggled.

“Wake up sleepy-head,” he murmured. “The Queen demands our presence.”

Carnealite wrinkled her nose, “Me too?” She asked. “What for?”

Nephrite stood up and quickly began to dress. “You never know with Queen Beryl” he said, rolling his eyes. “But I do know that we should not keep her waiting. Now, up.”

Carnealite sighed and stood up, exposing her perfect body to Nephrite’s hungry gaze. She smiled as she saw him looking at her. “Ah ah ah,” she teased. “We mustn’t keep the queen waiting.”

Nephrite smiled and walked over to her, taking her in his arms. “I only pray that she keeps the meeting short,” he said. Then he kissed her deeply.

*NEPHRITE!! RIGHT NOW!*

Reluctantly, Nephrite pulled away. “Come on,” he said. “We don’t have time for you to change.” Closing his eyes, he conjured Carnealite a uniform. Then, wrapping his arms around her, he teleported them both to the throneroom.

For once, he arrived before Kunzite. The silver-haired general appeared seconds later...alone. As soon as he saw Nephrite, his eyes darkened and he immediately turned his attention to the queen. Nephrite was startled. Does he know? He wondered. Fortunately he was distracted from worrying about it by the queen’s voice.

“Kunzite!” she snapped. “I ordered both of you to bring your students. Where is Zoisite?”

Kunzite bowed deeply. “My student is...ill, Queen Beryl-sama.” Carnealite shot a look at Nephrite, but he quickly looked away.

Beryl narrowed her eyes. “I see,” she replied. “I trust he will be recovered in time for the competition?”

“I hope so, my queen.”

“Good. Until then, I have been hearing reports that some people think I have set the competition too soon. I want you to know that it will take place when I say, regardless of how prepared your students are. I suggest that you devote the rest of your time to training for it.”

The generals bowed their heads. “Hai, Queen Beryl-sama” they said in unison.

“You are dismissed,” said the queen.

Nephrite peeked at Kunzite from under lowered lashes. The silver-haired general looked perplexed, almost anxious. With one last narrowed look at Nephrite, he disappeared in a flash of energy.

Nephrite managed to avoid Carnealite’s eyes until the two were back in his chambers, but once there she pulled him around towards her and looked him square in the face.

“I’ve never seen Lord Kunzite behave that way before,” she started angrily. “I want to know what you did to Zoisite, and I want to know now.”

Nephrite’s eyes narrowed. “I already told you!” he said. “I hurt him. Badly. I guess he’s still weak,” he added softly.

“Why did you do it?” asked Carnealite.

Nephrite knew that he couldn’t tell her the whole truth. “Because he disobeyed my orders,” he said finally. “I got angry.”

Carnealite’s eyes widened. “The little pansy dared to disobey you?”

Nephrite decided to take advantage of her outrage. “Yes,” he said. “And I blasted him for it. Unfortunately, I’m afraid it was too powerful a blast.”

A smile began to spread over Carnealite’s face. “But he’s weakened now?” she asked.

“Yes, he must be. Kunzite would never dare to risk the queen’s anger. He would have brought Zoisite if he was able.”

“So, if Queen Beryl decided to hold the competition sooner then planned, I would have a greater chance of winning?”

Nephrite smiled slyly, catching her meaning. Why did he ever get involved with Zoisite when he had this clever little minx to return to? He wrapped his arms around her. “I love the way you think Carney,” he said. “Wait and see. You’ll be the queen’s next general, I swear.”

“Then we’ll always be together,” she replied happily. She kissed him deeply, then pulled away. “Now, let’s train!” she said excitedly. “I want to beat Zoisite in the first round!”

“Kunzite-sama!” he exclaimed. “What happened? Did you see them? Did you tell them?”

Looking into the avid face of his pupil, Kunzite laughed. “Don’t worry, my impetuous little Zoisite. As far as they know, you are wilting away in your deathbed right now.”

A slow smile spread across Zoisite’s face. “And as long as Nephrite thinks I’m too injured to fight, his guard will be down.” Suddenly, he threw his arms around his master. “Oh, thank you Kunzite-sama!” he whispered.

Kunzite stood for a moment, startled. Then slowly, he wrapped one arm around the slender man’s shoulders. “Let’s begin,” he said. He led Zoisite gently to the armchair and sat him down. “Last night you were strong enough to conjure ice crystals,” he said. “Now I want to see if you can use them.”

Zoisite nodded and closed his eyes. Slowly, a crystal formed above his outstretched palm. Kunzite went and stood behind him.

“Now, try to make its movements follow your command.”

Zoisite opened his eyes and stared at the crystal. With little flicks of his fingers he was able to make it rise, fall back to his hand, float, or spin.

“Faster!” Kunzite commanded.

Zoisite gritted his teeth. The crystal began to spin quickly, a swirling point of light growing faster and faster.

“Now!” ordered Kunzite. “The wall!” At the same time, he sent a flash of energy to scorch a tiny hole into the wall, creating a target.

Zoisite narrowed his eyes. “Zoi!” he shouted, pointing toward the wall. The crystal flew away from him, still spinning, and embedded itself deep into the wall, impaling the very center of the scorch mark.

Kunzite smiled. “Good,” he said.

Zoisite was panting heavily, and sweat dampened his brow. “Kunzite-sama,” he whispered, slumping down into the chair.

Kunzite placed a hand on the back of Zoisite’s soft hair. “It’s alright,” he said. “You’re doing well.” Then he closed his eyes, sending waves of energy into the other man. Zoisite’s panting soon stopped, and he sat up straight in the chair. “Feeling better?” Kunzite asked.

“Yes, Kunzite-sama!” Zoisite answered a little breathlessly.

“Then let’s continue.”

The day wore on. Kunzite took Zoisite back through every attack he knew, relentlessly. Whenever the boy tired, Kunzite pumped him full of healing energy and pushed on. By the end of the evening, both pupil and master were exhausted. Kunzite held up a hand.

“No more training for today,” he announced. “You need to sleep.” He led Zoisite over to the bed and laid him down, covering him with blankets.

Zoisite looked up at his master. Kunzite’s white hair was matted to his forehead, and he looked like he could fall down at any second. “But Kunzite-sama,” he exclaimed. “You need to sleep just as much as I do.”

“Don’t ever tell me what I need,” Kunzite snapped. “You forget, I’m much stronger than you. I assure you, I’m perfectly fine.”

“Yes, Kunzite-sama,” Zoisite whispered. Kunzite looked down on him, with almost a smile on his face.

“Get some sleep now,” he instructed. “We have another long day ahead of us tomorrow.” Zoisite was so tired that he fell asleep almost as soon as his head touched the pillow. Kunzite started to walk away when a sudden wave of dizziness washed over him. Taken by surprise, he had to clutch the bedpost so he wouldn’t fall over. Keeping Zoisite from passing out all day must have taken more energy than I thought. He looked down at the bed for a moment, considering. Then as another wave of dizziness hit, he shrugged out of his jacket and collapsed onto the bed, curling up beside his pupil.

Zoisite gasped in shock when he realized that he was resting on a bare, muscular chest. Kunzite-sama! Zoisite recognized the strong jaw and silky silver strands of his master. He reached out and delicately brushed a lock of hair away from Kunzite’s closed eyes. Then he froze his hand in the air, afraid of waking his master. When his arm began to ache, he lowered it, resting his hand on his mentor’s jaw. He enjoyed the smooth and perfect shape, tracing the jawline with one slender finger. He’s so beautiful, Zoisite thought. Against his will, memories of the evening on the terrace with Kunzite flashed in his mind. He remembered the taste of Kunzite’s mouth, the softness of his lips, his silky hair, the way he caressed Zoisite’s body.

The young man felt his desire start to grow between his legs. He raised up a little to better admire his master. Suddenly, it was too much. He bent over Kunzite. His entire body was shaking, and his lips were trembling. He moved his face towards Kunzite’s and brushed his lips against his, almost gasping with relief when their lips touched.

Kunzite took him by surprise. Strong hands cupped Zoisite’s face as Kunzite’s hot lips covered his mouth, grazing his lips with his tongue. Zoisite was too stunned to really realize what was going on, but he soon let go all of his restraint towards his master. Their tongues met and danced together. Zoisite ran his hands over Kunzite’s chest and through his hair. Kunzite grabbed Zoisite’s neck for a deeper kiss.

“You really thought I would be asleep?” Kunzite managed to say between hot kisses.

“I’m sorry Kunzite-sama,” gasped Zoisite. Kunzite only groaned and ripped off Zoisite’s jacket. He played with the hard nipples, sucking and biting gently. His hands slid down to Zoisite’s firm ass, massaging it. Every movement sent electric shocks through Zoisite’s body, making him moan lightly. He gasped and dug his fingers into his master’s hair as Kunzite began unbuttoning his pants.

Kunzite, unable to wait any longer, closed his eyes. Zoisite’s pants disappeared, leaving the young man naked. Kunzite rolled him over onto his back and trailed hot kisses down his body. He kissed Zoisite’s hard member and gently licked the top of it. The copper-haired man quickly removed himself from Kunzite’s embrace. The arch-general looked at him in confusion.

“It’s...it’s wrong, Kunzite-sama. You should not do that to me.” Kunzite started to protest, but Zoisite interrupted. “I should be the one to please my Kunzite-sama,” he said. Then he smiled and bent down over Kunzite. He waved his hand over Kunzite’s pants, leaving the general naked too. Then he engulfed Kunzite’s big shaft in his mouth, making its owner gasp.

“Isn’t it better this way?” asked Zoisite. He started to move his mouth up and down around Kunzite’s member. The general took his student by the arms, pulling him up until they were face to face.

“It’s a game Zoisite, and there must be at least two players.” His soft breath caressed Zoisite’s face, then he kissed his student passionately. Zoisite lost his balance and bent over Kunzite’s arm. The general held him steady, and wrapped his mouth around Zoisite’s hardness, making him scream in sweet ecstacy. Kunzite worked Zoisite with his lips and tongue, while with one hand he massaged the younger man’s balls. It didn’t take very long for Zoisite to feel his climax approaching.

“Kunzite-sama...” he moaned. “Please don’t....”

“I want to drink you, my little animal.”

“Kunzite-sama....” Zoisite moaned louder and louder, then screamed Kunzite’s name as he came. He remained in Kunzite’s mouth as the general drank every drop of his semen. Zoisite turned his body around and faced his master. He snuggled into his chest, and Kunzite’s arms wrapped around him tightly. He felt sleepy for a few moments, but restrained himself. Kunzite-sama must be pleased too, he thought. He raised over his master and looked down at him.

“Now it’s your turn, my lord Kunzite-sama.” Taking Kunzite’s rock-hard dick, he directed it to his opening. When Kunzite discovered what his student was about to do, he stopped him.

“No, Zoisite. That will only hurt you more!”

Zoisite smiled. “I am not a wimp, my lord.”

Kunzite shook his head. “No. I will not hurt you like that.”

Zoisite bent down and kissed Kunzite softly on the lips. “You could never hurt me like that, Kunzite-sama.” Then he sat up and impaled himself on Kunzite’s hardness. He bit his lower lip to keep from crying out, and began to move up and down, making Kunzite gasp. Zoisite felt himself hardening again as Kunzite began to stroke his penis. His light cries soon turned into loud moans. He felt Kunzite increasing his pace, so he sped up to match his master, tightening his anal muscles around the general’s cock

. “Zoisite....” Kunzite murmured. “Zoisite....ahh!” With one last gasp, Kunzite came and splashed Zoisite’s tight ass with his semen. Both were breathless. To Zoisite’s surprise, Kunzite took his dick in his hand and started to jack it. “After your efforts,” he said huskily, “you must be rewarded.” Under the general’s skilled hands, Zoisite cried out in pleasure. He needed release again, release from all of his passion. He moved his hips with Kunzite’s strokes and closed his eyes. As he came for a second time he grabbed the headboard, splashing his cum onto himself and his master. Slowly, Zoisite opened his eyes. He felt Kunzite’s strong arms lift him off the bed.

“We need to clean off,” Kunzite whispered in his ear, nuzzling softly. “There are still so many possibilities for us.”

“Yes, that’s it.” It was a voice that Kunzite recognized as Nephrite’s. He hadn’t realized that he was right beside the Training Yard. He stopped and looked in at the two people who were there. Right away, he spotted Carnealite’s flashy hair. Manipulating fire with precision and dexterity, Carnealite gracefully waved her hands as powerful flames danced around her. Kunzite’s eyes widened. This girl was truly strong and skillful!

Nephrite felt Kunzite’s presence but didn’t move. He smiled to himself, thinking about Zoisite. “Say Kunzite,” he said. “Will your little pupil be ready for the competition?” He turned around to face the arch-general. Kunzite crossed his arms and didn’t answer.

“I went into his quarters today,” Nephrite continued. “He wasn’t there. Is he still weak?”

“Maybe” Kunzite answered, hiding a smile.

“I strongly suggest that you revise your methods, my friend.”

“I’m not your friend Nephrite,” Kunzite responded calmly. “And maybe it is you who should revise your methods.”

Kunzite left. After all, Nephrite may be right. Zoisite was still too weak to fight, and Carnealite really was good....if only there was no competiton to prepare for.

Queen Beryl’s voice rang in both men’s minds. Both also teleported automatically to the throneroom. Queen Beryl had an impish smile on her lips. She tapped her fingernails on her throne as her two best generals bowed in front of her.

“You called, my queen?” inquired Kunzite.

“I did Kunzite, yes.” Her smirk grew. “I hope that you both are well prepared, along with your students. I plan to hold the competition....this afternoon.”

Kunzite’s eyes widened, but he quickly restrained himself. He clenched his fists. NO! Zoisite is not ready. He is still too weak....damn Nephrite to the light!

“You are both dismissed,” was all Kunzite heard from the queen. He bowed, then quickly teleported to his quarters. Zoisite was still asleep in the big bed. Kunzite looked at him, and for a moment all his problems vanished. Zoisite was a real Sleeping Beauty. Long eyelashes, blushed cheeks, lips slightly opened. Kunzite gently caressed the copper hair. He sat down on the bed beside his lover and student and began to rub his naked shoulders. Zoisite opened his eyes.

“Kunzite-sama....I’m sorry! I was sleeping!” Zoisite raised in the bed. He looked into Kunzite’s concerned face. “Kunzite-sama...what’s wrong?”

Should I tell him?

“Zoisite....Queen Beryl said that the competition was to be held....”

“This afternoon, is that it?” Zoisite cut in. Then he smiled.

“You knew?” asked Kunzite.

“I sensed it....” Zoisite’s face turned vague and dreamy for a few seconds. Then he blinked his eyes, and his body was covered with a grey uniform. The boy jumped off the bed, then walked to the door. He turned around to face his mentor. “I won’t fail you, Kunzite-sama!”

Kunzite could read the determination on Zoisite’s face. He smiled back at his lover. “Let’s go then, my little animal.”

A gong sounded and the crowd silenced. Queen Beryl raised and everyone bowed. She looked at Nephrite, then at Kunzite.

“Kunzite,” she said. “Where is your student? Is he still sick?”

Nephrite grinned. He and Carnealite exchanged satisfied glances.

“He will be here your majesty,” answered Kunzite.

As soon as he said it, a flurry of cherry blossom petals appeared behind Kunzite. Zoisite elegantly walked towards his master, never removing his eyes from Nephrite.

Nephrite had to conceal his shock as the slender man came to stand beside Kunzite. Zoisite looked just fine! In fact with that devil-may-care smile set on his beautiful face, he looked nothing less then perfectly confident. Was it all a trick then? He thought, anger beginning to show on his handsome features. Beside him he heard Carnealite give a little gasp, and her hand squeezed his arm. He patted it reassuringly, never taking his eyes from Zoisite’s smiling face. When Zoisite reached Kunzite’s side, he turned and bowed deeply to the queen.

“I apologize for keeping you waiting, my queen. I was...indisposed.”

Beryl raised her eyebrows. “Fine, Zoisite. I trust you are quite recovered?”

Zoisite bowed again. “Yes, majesty.”

“Good. Then let the competition begin!” Beryl clapped her hands, and all of the youmas around the competition area bowed as she began to speak.

Next to Nephrite, Carnealite was trying her best to keep her composure. Zoisite, that little snake! He was supposed to be on his deathbed, and here he was looking as if he didn’t have a care in the world! She noticed that the copper-haired boy’s gaze kept returning to Nephrite, and she leaned closer to her lover.

“Nephrite....” she whispered.

He squeezed her arm so the rest of the assembly couldn’t see. “Don’t be afraid my love,” he whispered. “This is probably just a front. He can’t possibly be fully recovered yet.”

“He looks pretty recovered to me,” Carnealite breathed.

Nephrite turned to face her. “Listen to me” he said, quietly but with an intense edge to his voice.

“You’ve been training hard the last couple of days, and it shows. Even I never expected you to do as well as you have. You’re stronger than you think Carnealite, almost frighteningly strong. And in the event that the little pansy does win, it won’t matter. You may not be a general, but Beryl will certainly put you in a top position of her armies.” He looked her in the eyes. “No matter what happens today, you and I will be together. I promise.”

Carnealite smiled as tears came into her eyes. “Thank you Nephrite,” she whispered. Then her sapphire eyes flashed. “I won’t fail you!”

Nephrite smiled. “That’s my girl.”

Across the arena, Zoisite watched their exchange with a smile on his perfect lips. Kunzite leaned over and whispered in his ear.

“What are you thinking about, my little rat?”

“Nothing at all, my lord.”

Kunzite followed his student’s gaze to the figures opposite them. “Not trying to come up with ways to get back at Nephrite, are you?”

Just then, Beryl called for the two opponents to come to the center of the arena. Zoisite turned and smiled at his master. “Don’t worry,” he said as he started to walk away. Then he added mentally, *I already have*

Kunzite watched as his student strolled calmly to the center of the arena. I only hope he’s as strong as he looks,he thought.

When Zoisite and Carnealite were standing face to face, Carnealite’s eyes narrowed. “Too bad you don’t look quite as confident as you’re trying to Zoisite,” she hissed. “What’s the matter? Did Nephrite finally give you the punishment you deserve, and you couldn’t handle it?”

Zoisite smiled icily. “Nephrite thinks much more of his abilities than he should,” he replied. Then his smile grew. “But I’m sure you already knew that.”

Before Carnealite could respond, Beryl’s voice shot through the throneroom.

“Begin.”

Carnealite’s eyes flashed, but before she could prepare an attack Zoisite sent a flurry of sakura petals at her which lifted her clear into the air and dropped her about 20 feet away. Zoisite had to suppress a giggle as he looked down at her. Then he heard Kunzite’s voice in his head: *Careful, Zoisite. Don’t celebrate yet*

Zoisite narrowed his eyes and concentrated. A burst of petals flew from his hands toward the girl, but she rolled quickly out of the way. In the same movement, she jumped to her feet and threw her arms in the air. Waves of bright orange fire exploded all around her, seeming to extend from her outstretched hands.

With a shriek, she started to throw wave after wave of fire at Zoisite. The boy just laughed and teleported, dodging each wave she threw at him. Then all of a sudden, Zoisite faltered. He felt a pain in his lungs, and mentally called out to his master. *Kunzite-sama!* Kunzite’s eyes widened as one of Carnealite’s blasts hit Zoisite square in the chest, knocking the beautiful boy backward.

Nephrite smiled as he saw his love’s attack hit home. He had seen Zosite gasp and clutch his chest momentarily. I knew he was still weak! He thought. No way he can keep this up for long. Mentally, he called out to his lover: *Carney! We were right, the little bastard is still weak! Don’t be soft with him....give him what he deserves!*

Carnealite laughed and readied another attack. But before she could deliver, Zoisite leaped straight into the air and disappeared. Carnealite looked around in confusion, but was unable to see Zoisite reappear directly behind her.

“Zoi!” Zoisite shouted. A blast of sakura petals hit Carnealite in the back, knocking her forward. It was obvious that the attack weakened her. Zoisite smiled and stepped closer, preparing another blast. When Carnealite saw him approaching she gathered her power and sent a fireblast at him. It was a feeble one, but it knocked Zoisite to the ground. Then Carnealite pressed her hands into the earth, creating a crack which moved quickly towards Zoisite. Beneath him the ground exploded, lifting him high into the air and dropping him painfully to the ground. He swore, clenching his fists. I cannot fail my Kunzite-sama! He thought furiously. What would my master do?

Suddenly, Zoisite’s green eyes flashed as he remembered a certain attack...his head snapped up and he glared at Carnealite. Then he whipped an arm out toward her and closed his fist. At the same time, Carnealite conjured a flame spear. Zoisite’s eyes widened. She was heading right for him, ready to strike. A cold sweatdrop ran down the beautiful boy’s face. Why isn’t it working?! He thought to himself furiously. He clenched his fist harder, his nails digging into his palm.

In front of him, Carnealite began to gasp and choke. With a final effort, she threw the spear at Zoisite, and he let out a groan as it embedded itself in his side. Ignoring the pain, he concentrated on his fist and the spell. His side began to bleed freely from the amount of straining in his body, and bright red drops spattered the floor.

Across from him Carnealite fell to the ground, clutching her throat, and turned shocked eyes on him. The copper-haired man smiled in triumph. The audience exploded into cheering as Carnealite fell to her knees, one hand clawing towards Zoisite. It was over. Above the sound of the audience, Zoisite heard Kunzite’s mental sigh of relief.

Queen Beryl stood up from her throne. “Carnealite?” she asked. There was no answer from the red-haired girl. “Carnealite is immobilized. I declare Zoisite the winner!”

Zoisite’s eyes narrowed. He dropped his hand, releasing Carnealite. She pitched forward, gasping for air. The crowd was roaring. Zoisite calmly strode over, holding his wounded side, and grabbed Carnealite by the arm, pulling her to her knees. She was still gasping and coughing. Zoisite placed a hand on her chest. The crowd was too busy celebrating to notice. Zoisite looked straight at Nephrite. Their eyes met, and Zoisite smiled.

Nephrite recognized the glint in Zoisite’s eyes and began to push his way through the hordes of youmas, throwing them aside in his desperation to get to the two figures in the arena. “Zoisite!” he shouted. “Please, stop! Don’t!”

Zoisite just smiled. His eyes never left Nephrite’s face. A brief flicker of concentration passed over his features. Then Nephrite saw Carnealite’s eyes widen in shock, and a strangled gasp escaped from her lips. Time stood still. It seemed an eternity that they remained frozen there, three figures, with Zoisite’s green eyes taking up the entire field of Nephrite’s vision. Then a thin trail of blood trickled down from beneath Zoisite’s slim white hand. Nephrite stared in horror as Zoisite removed his hand, revealing the tip of the crystal shard protruding from Carnealite’s chest.

Beryl followed the direction of her general’s gaze, catching her breath in surprise when she saw the scene below. Zoisite was smiling grimly. Now that’s what the Dark Kingdom needs, she thought triumphantly.

Kunzite, still standing calmly in his place, secretly smiled.

Nephrite pushed his way through the remaining crowd as Zoisite, with one last look, dropped Carnealite disdainfully to the floor and sauntered away. Nephrite let him go, all of his attention focused on the crumpled body at his feet. She was alive, but he knew that it would only be for a few more moments. He fell to his knees beside her.

Carnealite felt his presence, and her eyes blinked open. “Nephrite...” she managed to say. She began to cough, a trickle of blood running out of her mouth, and Nephrite pulled her into his arms. He said nothing, simply stroked her hair softly.

“You failed me, Nephrite” she murmured. Nephrite’s heart broke into a million pieces. Carnealite’s gaze was fixed on nothing. Slowly, his entire body shaking, Nephrite bent and kissed her lightly. He could taste the blood in her mouth, as well as her tears. She moved against his lips, kissing him back with all the energy she had left. When he pulled back her eyes were looking up at him with both anger and pain, and tears were flowing in earnest down her cheeks.

“You failed me,” she repeated in a whisper. Then she let out a small, final gasp as her head fell against Nephrite’s arm.

For a long time, Nephrite held her while her warm body turned cold. From some far away place he could hear the assembly around him dispersing, but he paid them no attention. The room emptied. Still, he didn’t move. Nothing mattered anymore. He felt an overwhelming desire to simply stay there, holding on to his beloved, until his body was as cold and unyielding as hers.

After a while, he sensed a presence above him. He followed shiny black boots up to the strangely somber face of Zoisite. The younger man held his wounded side and looked down at him with no trace of the smug smile Nephrite would have expected.

“Please.....stop......don’t,” Zoisite said in a murmur. “These words sound familiar to me, my lord.” With that, the copper-haired man turned and walked away. In the shadows behind Zoisite, Nephrite thought he caught a glimpse of shiny silver hair. But it was only an illusion. The boy disappeared alone. Bowing his head once more, Nephrite gathered the body of his lover to him and felt his heart slowly turn to ice.

Nephrite took his lover’s body, then disappeared into the darkness.

He heard a whimper beside him and turned his head to look into the tear-bright sapphire eyes of Naru. What was left of his breath caught in his throat. She looked so much like Carnealite, this little one. He felt a stabbing pang of remorse that her innocent life had been shattered like this, all because of him.

Well, he thought ruefully, not all because of me. His face twisted into a grimace as he thought of Zoisite…After Metallia-only-knew how many years, it seemed the copper-haired bishonen had finally won the battle. Nephrite had never admitted it, but he knew that the battle had been won that long-ago day in the arena. Now the grace-period was up. He wondered what Zoisite was doing now. Probably celebrating his victory in Kunzite’s arms. Nephrite wished them the best. They deserved each other. But none of that mattered anymore.

Once again, he turned his eyes to Naru. At least Zoisite hadn’t gotten this one. Nephrite had prevented that. She was sobbing as if her heart would break but she was warm, and alive, and her friends were near. She would be fine. A small smile touched Nephrite’s lips as his eyes closed. This time Carnealite, he thought, I didn’t fail you.

Then the shadows faded and there was nothing but light.

FINIS