The Twin Thrones

Kato sat at his usual place next to Bankuson. The white room always hurt Kato's eyes. He didn't understand why it had to be this white. Was it because it had to appear clean? It just seemed devoid of personality, cold and uncaring. Kato's could feel his heart racing and the strength of his glare increased as he loosened each button on his long-sleeve shirt. He pushed it out of the way angrily.

How could his caveman think he wouldn't know? The man was stupid.

“What did I do this time,” Noberu asked in exasperation as Bankuson placed medical pads on Kato's naked chest, tummy and pale neck. They were cold and felt strange against his skin. He didn't like wearing them. They appeared to be made of cloth but were cold like metal.

Bankuson shook his head, indicating that Kato needed to be silent until he could get accurate readings. Making an unhappy sound in the back of his throat, the man turned to Noberu, “Stop upsetting him.” He made a few adjustments to his equipment. The halo pad near Kato sprang to life. A three dimensional image of Kato's heart, lungs, and other organs appeared. Kato jerked in surprise and the image jumped. His heart and lungs seemed to be working pretty hard now. Bankuson turned to Kato, “Do you want him to leave, Prince Kato?”

Shaking his head, Kato's lips thinned. He knew they could have this conversation later, but he was mad Noberu hadn't already talked to him about it yet. Did he really think he and Redaku didn't talk? The man was like an uncle to him.

“Why did you think it was okay to hit him,” Kato asked in a calm voice. The man once told him to say what he meant. He could do that. He thought giving the man angry glares and sighing periodically might get the man's attention. The big guy just frowned and watched Kato more carefully. How could a man who came this far in the ranks of the UP be this dense?

“I didn't think it was okay,” the big man said lamely, watching Bankuson out of the corner of his eyes. “He's not totally innocent either,” Noberu grumbled.

“Are you serious,” Kato asked in amazement, turning to face the big man. “You punched him in the face,” Kato said in a flat voice. He shook his head, remember Redaku's raw looking lips. “He looks like he lost a fight to a cheese grader. What could he possibly do to justify that?”

“Squirt-”

Kato pulled the pads off of his chest, tummy and neck, thankful he didn't have hair on his chest. The three dimension image sputtered and a loud noise buzzed. He flung the pads on to the halo pad and was shocked at the static, grating interference, that rose. The image turned white and the sound changed to screeching.

Bankuson shut the program down. He watched tip-lipped as Kato buttoned his shirt. He knew Kato's mood and apparently didn't see a need to argue. He watched Kato hop off of the examination table. “Stop upsetting him,” he called after as the door closed behind Kato and Noberu.

“You're an ass,” Kato bit off each word. He stopped in the hallway with another guard following them. He stopped and turned quickly. “I can't believe you,” Kato murmured to himself. “You're a fucking bully.” He turned and started down the hallway. He had no idea where he was supposed to be, so he just walked.

Noberu's wide hand stopped him from taking more than three steps away. “You're little Advisor isn't as innocent as he'd like to pretend,” Noberu growled at him.

Trying to shake him off and failing miserably, Kato hissed, “What!? What did he say?” Kato tried to kick him in the shin but the man shifted, obviously expecting it. His foot met air. He didn't bother trying again.

“He's been trying to convince your father we're lovers,” he said far too loudly and Kato froze. “He threatened to tell King Yoshi I've been pimping you out to Shinko. Apparently I'm keeping you away from Seshimora.”

Kato's mouth hung open. When Redaku admitted he'd threatened the big man, he had no idea how serious those threats were. Interfering in Ascension could bring a death sentence. He shook his head, Redaku wouldn't actually do it would he?

Redaku's words rose in his mind, “I will sacrifice everything to keep you safe, Kato.”

Fuck, who was the bully here? He had no idea Redaku had it in him. The man was always so mild-mannered. Kato chewed the inside of his cheek.

Taking a deep breath, Kato shook Noberu off and the man let him go. Noberu looked confused at Kato's expression. They were both adults. He decided to let them be. He turned and started down the hallway

“You should have hit him harder,” he murmured into shocked silence and smiled when two sets of footsteps stumbled after him.

____________________________________________________________________

“Boy's not my type,” the large man in black said from behind dark glasses. “He's too submissive.” Noberu was angled away from Kato, but the other man's twin mirrors captured his relief.

What the hell? Who did this guy think he was?

Kato stiffened. He'd never seen the guy, never spoken to him. Was the man just trying to get a reaction? The guy didn't know Kato well enough to make smart-ass comments like that. Kato looked the man up and down slowly, as if measuring him.

The guy was a few inches shorter than Noberu, but he made up for it in width. The man's legs were like massive tree trunks. His neck was enormous, thick veins bulging even while at rest. He was dark-skinned. His wiry, dark hair was longer in front but cut tight against his temples and the back of his head. A mass of dark hair peaked through the top of his dark shirt. He reminded Kato of black bears from Radekoun. Frankly, the guy reeked of testosterone and Kato immediately didn't like him.

The man appeared to be ignoring him. Funny, since Kato was here to meet the newest members of his detail. Noberu introduced the man as Basang, an old friend or something. Figures his friends would be assholes, too. The big guy was obviously trying to get a reaction.

“Fuck you, too,” Kato said, showing too many teeth, “Pretty boy.”

Submissive his ass. He couldn't change how looked. Kato smiled sweetly when the man turned to him. He didn't blink when the man slowly grinned, his white teeth almost blinding against his dark skin. Basang's face was wide and rough and he needed a shave.

“Too delicate,” the man noted, nodding to himself. This time it was his turn to check Kato out. He took his time. “But I like his mouth,” he laughed when Kato glared at him. He looked over at Noberu slyly. “He's definitely your type though,” the man's voice was low and rough, like raw sugar. The man leered at Noberu even though he had to duck his head to avoid Noberu's fist. He moved with ease, as if he was accustomed to dodging quick fists.

Kato nearly laughed. The man wasn't baiting him, he was baiting Noberu. He knew he wasn't Noberu's type. He might not like the guy, but he could appreciate anyone who could piss Noberu off this quickly. Moving with more ease now, Kato backed out of the way when Noberu took another swing at the wide man. Kato settled against one wall with the newest members of his guard. Kato frowned. Basang was laughing freely. Neither man looked particularly upset with the other.

Noberu managed to pop Basang in the mouth once. The man reeled back and grunted, “Shit.” He backed off and held his hand to the corner of his thin lips. There wasn't any blood. “What the hell was that for?” His voice was nasally. He didn't give Noberu a chance to answer before dropping quickly and thrusting his leg to take Noberu's feet out from under him.

“You owe me a hell of a lot of money,” Noberu grunted out, hopping and moving backwards to avoid Basang's sweeping leg. He moved in closer when Basang's body was twisted away from him, still level with the ground

“That's what the tape was for,” Basang grunted out. Standing and twisting his body in one fluid motion, he completed a roundhouse. He seemed disappointed Noberu was no longer standing in the same place. “Do I have to do everything for you?” The dark face said with exaggerated exasperation, obviously trying to bait the taller man closer.

“Can I leave now,” Kato asked no one in particular.

He needed at least one guard to leave with him. Everyone seemed riveted to the floor show of male bonding. No one was paying attention to him. Kato spoke louder now. He'd get their attention. “Cause...bored now,” Kato managed to say with indifference while rolling his eyes.

“Little busy here, just-” Noberu was cut off as Basang's foot glanced off the side of his head. He rolled in the air and landed roughly. Noberu stood shakily and staggered out range, shaking his head as if to clear it.

Kato instantly felt nervous. He was stealing Noberu's concentration. He didn't think they'd actually hurt each other. He watched Noberu shake his head again. Noberu glanced briefly in Kato's direction. He gestured to Kato's left. Kato looked around not understanding what the man was trying to tell him.

Basang took the opportunity and moved in just as Noberu's attention returned. Noberu's head whipped backwards after Basang struck the bridge of his nose with a quick jab. Noberu stumbled and Basang's grin grew wider, almost vicious.

“Fucker,” Noberu grunted out. He moved out of Basang's range and shook his head. He brought his hand to his nose, but there wasn't any blood. His nose wasn't broken, but it looked like it was going to start swelling soon.

Kato's brow raised. He thought these two were friends. What the hell was wrong with them? He wasn't too alarmed yet, but he was getting there. He moved closer to Rato.

He could tell from the ease of their attacks and the control they exercised, they weren't really trying to hurt each other, not seriously anyway. They had both missed opportunities to break bones. Even on his own planet, it wasn't unusual for palace guards to test themselves and blow off steam like this.

Maybe this really was just their way of bonding? Or is this how they worked out their differences? Kato did question why Noberu would have made money off some tape or why Basang owed Noberu money in the first place. There appeared to be a lot more going on here, but nobody seemed to be asking any questions. Maybe it was old news to everyone else?

Kato glanced over at Rato. The man was grinning, obviously enjoying the show. He didn't seem to be cheering for either man though. Kato vowed not to interfere again, but he didn't feel a lot of sympathy for Noberu either. Hell, he'd given Redaku worse just yesterday. The man earned his swollen nose. Kato relaxed against the padded wall for a moment and watched everyone around him.

Now Noberu's choice of rooms made sense. Kato thought it odd that he didn't simply meet his guard in his rooms or in the audience hall. The practice room was a large space. One entire wall was a transparent thick polymer, used as a room divider, separating the practice room from the weight room. The entire back wall, covering both spaces, was a mirrored surface. It was designed specifically for these kinds of spaces. It was flexible but not built for comfort. It would give when a hand, foot or body was thrown against it, but would not shatter. The floor and the wall opposite Kato were black and padded for comfort.

The few others in the room were already calling out wagers on who could draw first blood or break bones. Kato looked over at his guard. They lined two walls of the practice room. They all looked amused. A few seemed down right happy even. Most of them were young. Although, even the seasoned guards seemed to be enjoying themselves. Noberu had to believe in their skills or they wouldn't be here. Kato shook his head.

Kato didn't see any point in hanging out. He already met the new members of his security detail. It was obvious the two men needed time together to be assholes. He reached over and tapped Rato's arms. The man looked over at him and Kato motioned towards the door. The man looked disappointed. Kato shrugged, almost apologetically. He glanced over to the the heaving big men and rolled his eyes.

“Since you ladies are bonding, I'm leaving.” Kato called over his back as he led Rato from the room. “Save some tea and cookies for me.”

Kato stiffened when he heard the crack behind him. He was in the doorway and turned. Noberu had Basang in choke hold. The frames on the man's expensive shades were bent, dangling from his face. Basang wasn't smiling anymore. The thick veins in his neck were throbbing in time with his gasping. His face was red and splotchy and he looked pretty pissed off now.

Noberu grunted out, “No more livestock for you,” he squeezed tighter, his breath harsh, “No tail either.” His face took on a look of extreme concentration as he tried to squeeze the life out of his “friend.” His arms were trembling with the effort.

Livestock? Kato has to talk to Noberu about this guy.

Basang shifted, bending at the waist trying to draw Noberu with him. Noberu pushed his knees forward into Basang and leaned backward, his body pulsing with the effort until Basang threw his head back. Noberu seemed to anticipate it but was unable to keep his hold on the wider man. He pushed the man forward, hard. Basang caught himself immediately. He threw his arm out straight, turning his body with force towards Noberu, trying to catch the man in the throat. He missed.

“It was just one,” the man yelled bringing a leg up and kicking out towards Noberu's knee, “fucking cow!” Basang was wheezing now his voice harsh.

Noberu tried to side step Basang's foot, but he wasn't fast enough and went down. He rolled away, his face was red now, too. Rato lightly touched Kato's wrist. Kato frowned. He hadn't realized he stepped into the room. He knew it was a bad idea. He could be hurt now if he remained. Rato cleared his throat. Kato looked over at him and backed into the hallway.

Neither man seemed to be having much fun now.

Watching the two behemoths throw hard, muscled limbs at each other was physically intimidating. Not knowing if they were actually trying to kill each other made it worse. Kato didn't know Basang. Although he already knew he didn't care for him at all, he didn't want the man harmed.

Kato realized he didn't like Noberu being hurt. Noberu was a stupid ass, but he was here for Kato. He wanted someone to call a truce. He looked over at Rato as the man spoke.

“They have some stuff to work through, Prince Kato. They'll be fine,” Rato said, grimacing when Basang went sailing through the air.

There was a flurry of movement, arms and legs, torsos moving rapidly, as guards threw themselves out of the way. Basang stopped mid-flight when he met the transparent surface. Kato cringed at the sound of bone cracking. Maybe it was Kato's imagination, but the man's body seemed to hang motionless in the air before actually bouncing against the padded floor. Men were untangling body parts and heaving themselves off the floor, away from the walls, and putting more distance between themselves and the big man's wide body before Basang stirred.

“Bloodied and a little broken, but fine,” Rato amended, shrugging. He still didn't seem too concerned.

Kato was unsure. How was this working anything out? Who won? The last guy standing? The one with fewest broken bones? He glanced over at Rato again, chewing on his lip in indecision. The man was looking at the two now wrestling on the floor. Noberu seemed to be getting the upper hand, but of course, he hadn't just sailed into a wall.

Was this some kind of fucked of lesson for Kato? Why was he here? Noberu never did things without purpose. He wanted Kato to see this. Kato had no idea what he was supposed to learn from this. Noberu told him once to say what he meant. The man needed to take his own advise. Kato glanced at Rato again looking for some kind of answer.

Rato really seemed unconcerned, like this was normal everyday behavior. Kato knew the man had worked with Noberu for several years and probably this Basang guy, too. He would know. Kato shrugged and led Rato out of the room. He only took a few steps before he heard the distinct whooshing sound as air was driven painfully out of someone's lungs. He heard a groan and the unmistakable sound of a body hitting the ground.

Kato had only gone a few feet down the hallway when silence filled the room behind him. He slowed, worried now. He was about to turn around and return to the room when he heard more wagers being shouted and someone yelling “fucker” several times. He could make out Noberu grumbling about a “damn tape” and “nightmares” before Kato finally decided he didn't want to know and didn't care if they beat the crap out of each other.

If this is how they worked stuff out, he hoped he'd never see them actually angry. He heard Rato sigh and realized Rato probably knew what “tape” and “It was just one fucking cow!” meant. He smiled and walked off to find a nice space to interrogate the man. He still owed his stupid caveman one hell of an embarrassing moment – with witnesses.

____________________________________________________________________

Kato really didn't want to be there even if he appreciated being outside. He refrained from cursing Seshimora when the big man politely badgered him into sitting underneath the small canopy. He tried to tell him he wasn't affected by the sun as much anymore, but the big man wouldn't listen to him. Something about him having poor judgment about his own welfare.

What a load of crap!

Though there was little wind, occasionally it would whip from the South, dragging the faint scent of chlorine from the triple fountains. He was seated too far away to feel the spray. Kato slumped in the deep-seated gray chair. His legs were too short to sit all the way back comfortably.

When Seshimora invited him out, he thought they might actually do something. Instead he was sitting in an uncomfortable chair, watching Seshimora complete several Katas that Kato didn't recognize. If he wanted to watch big men flex their muscles he could have stayed and watched Noberu and Basang beat the crap out of each other. It wasn't the most comfortable thing to watch, but at least it wasn't boring.

He could appreciate the time and dedication it took to achieve the big man's physique. He didn't appreciate being ignored. He wasn't a girl and wasn't impressed. He was bored. He tried to make polite conversation, but Seshimora politely asked for silence.

Why was he even here?

Seshimora finished his last form and stood. He walked over to Kato and stopped. He gestured to the chair next to Kato and Kato nodded. Sure, take a seat. He was so freaking bored he'd talk to the guy. Anything to relieve the boredom.

The large man's arms stretched out over his head and out to the side as he took a deep breath and released it. Once again Kato was impressed with the man's size. He watched the dark, lose shirt rise high enough he could see thick hair running along with man's stomach, circling his belly button. The man's abdomen was tight and well developed, too. The black pants were loose and hung low on the man's thick, tight hips.

Kato wasn't certain why Seshimora wasn't wearing any shoes. It seemed a little odd with the uneven surface of stone underneath them. The big man settled himself into the deep-seated chair that seemed a little narrow for him.

Kato found himself smiling. He might have snickered. The man looked like he was sitting on children's furniture. He wondered if the chair would stick to Seshimora's ass when he stood up. Kato eased back into his chair and swung his legs lightly, his feet not quite touching stone. He took a deep breath and kept smiling. He watched a flock of dark birds circle something far off.

“You miss being outside,” Seshimora said seriously.

“That obvious?” Kato thought about taking his own shoes off. He took another deep breath and wondered if he could commission a boat. He might not able to do much but sit and look, but he could still find something to do.

“You smile more out here,” Seshimora said, gesturing around him. Kato shrugged.

Seshimora nodded and said, “You are moving with more ease. You seem to be healing well.” Kato shrugged again. Seshimora hesitated. “You will be ready to bear young sooner than expected, I think.”

Kato stopped swinging his feet and slowly brought astonished eyes to Seshimora.

What the hell?

“Why do you do that?” Kato asked quietly. He wasn't really angry, just surprised the man had so little tact. First, he dragged him out to watch some “impressive” floor show. Now, his polite conversation estimated when Kato would be ready to receive his seed? The man couldn't be this dense.

Seshimora blinked. “Do what, Prince Kato?” The man seemed confused.

The man really didn't understand. Kato sighed. Why shouldn't he be surprised? For Kato, Seshimora was the hardest of the Kitsurin royalty to read. Why couldn't the man understand Kato was a little scared about the whole thing? Who could prepare for another round of show off Kato's less manly bits to the general public?

Conception would be another public display for a multitude of planets. Kato still hadn't seen footage from the first procedure. He was dreading his next performance. It was embarrassing as hell. How could the big man talk as if was nothing? He couldn't be this dense, could he?

“Never mind,” Kato said, staring off at the circling black birds again. He wished he was given the same medical report his father and counsel received each week. He probably wouldn't feel any better though. He regretted coming here.

Kato kicked off his shoes and folded his legs underneath himself. He started picking at his sleeve. He shifted his shirt, feeling naked for some stupid reason. Since his surgery, Redaku allowed him to wear clothing that didn't hug his hips, leave his chest exposed or show off his ass too much. He was relieved to be wearing a loose-fitting, cotton shirt and slacks.

He looked over at Seshimora again. The man was staring. His expression looked pained. Did the guy have indigestion or something? Kato raised a brow and dared the man to say something. Finally, Kato had had enough. “You're staring again,” he said angrily.

The man nodded, but didn't look at all embarrassed. “I can't seem to say the right thing,” the man said, sounding upset now. “I am sorry.”

Kato shrugged and went back to watching circling birds. He was starting to wonder what kind of birds they were and if there was something dying out there. It got him thinking about hiking. He might not get to hike, but he might be able to convince Shinko to take him on a ride to see more of the palace grounds. That might be a nice diversion.

“Prince Kato,” Seshimora said again. The man's voice was pained.

The big guy was making it difficult to ignore him. “Look, I can't seem to talk to you right either,” Kato said with a sigh and then mumbled. “I don't understand half of the stuff you say.”

“I am a simple man,” Seshimora said seriously, without a hint of amusement.

Kato glanced at him out of the corner of his eyes. “Right and I'm not a crazed, hormonal mess,” Kato snorted. He rolled his eyes and stretched his legs out in front of him. He wasn't wearing any socks. He pulled his arms over his head and wrapped them together, each hand gripping the opposite elbow and rested them behind his head. He wiggled his toes. Kato breathed in the faint spray of chlorine again.

”Ah,” Seshimora said, a quiet hiss of steam. “You do seem somewhat more....emotional now.”

Kato cocked a brow at Seshimora. “That obvious?” He rolled his eyes again. He watched the bigger man try to get comfortable in the new chairs. He didn't understand what happened to the other set. He wiggled his toes again. He would have preferred to feel the sunlight but he'd take this.

Seshimora gave him a small smile and said quietly, “I will endeavor to be more understanding, Prince Kato.” He tried to sit back in the chair and only looked more awkward.

“What happened to the other set of chairs? You fit in the other one better.”

The bigger man was rubbing his forehead like he had a headache. He turned his head to Kato and looked embarrassed. “The other chairs were contaminated. They had to be destroyed. I can find others if you prefer.” Kato must have looked confused because Seshimora continued, “The toxin covered both of our hands and small traces were found on both chairs, among other things.”

Kato froze and made an “O” shape with his mouth. He shrugged and stretched his feet out again, widening his toes.

Unfortunately, their poisoning got Kato thinking about Ascension and Princess Fusako. There had to be a way to keep her out of it. It wasn't her fault she couldn't be considered to take the throne. Surely, there had to be some situations where the King could exempt participants? He planned on talking with King Yoshi, but none of his discussions had ended well with the man. Shinko seemed uncomfortable talking about it. Speaking with Fusako just made him want to cry. Seshimora was his only option.

“Prince Seshimora,” he paused staring at the big man, “Has anyone ever escaped, abdicated before Ascension?”

“Of course not,” the man said as if shocked Kato would even ask.

It's not her fault she can't take the throne. Be a man and give her an out, thought Kato, but he said, “This is an usual situation, surely concessions can be made? Can't your father do something?”

The big man looked constipated. He frowned at Kato and stared but was silent. Well, that was an answer of sorts, just not one that Kato wanted.

Huffing probably wasn't terribly diplomatic. Calling the man an asshole wouldn't help. Kato settled on being miserable and staring off again. If the man wasn't going to talk to him, he shouldn't have asked him out here.

Dammit, what was wrong with these people? Fusako can't Ascend. She'd never take the throne. Why couldn't she just walk away? She was smart, resourceful. She'd be fine on her own without her father or brothers.

She's just a kid.

Kato stopped squeezing his fists when he felt moisture. He opened them painfully and stared blankly at four blood-shaped crescents on each palm. Kato looked for his shoes and started to slide forward from his chair. He didn't need to stay. He didn't need to have anything to do with this man until after he murdered Fusako and Shinko.

Seshimora made a strange sound from the back of his throat. He wasn't looking at Kato now. The big man stood suddenly and moved to the triple fountains. He held his hand up to the spray when a gust of wind sent the spray towards him. Kato set his shoes down in front of himself, preparing to leave.

“I wanted him to flee.” He glanced back at Kato. “Takimore,” Seshimora's voice was soft and gentle, like the faint rustle of leaves moving in the cool breeze.

“Then how could you kill him?” Kato asked just as softly. He ignored his shoes and followed the larger man to the fountain. He reached out and touched the larger hand. His eyes caught Seshimora's and held them. “How?” He breathed.

“ He wanted me to save face...with our father, my men, everyone. He knew everyone saw his weakness...and mine. He said I had to challenge him,” Seshimora barked a humorless laugh and added, “or he would simply bring a sword to morning meal and take my head.”

“I don't understand.”

Seshimora withdrew his hand. He turned his body towards Kato. His eyes were soft.

“It is not my place to challenge Princess Fusako. Prince Shinko and she have the same birth mother. They have been close. They are each others' greatest weakness,” he said, watching Kato's look of horror spread. “Shinko will appear weak if he does not.”

Kato could do nothing but stare. The silence stretched while Kato's mind worked out possible scenarios where nothing bad happened to the small dark-haired beauty. Nothing useful was coming. Desperation set in.

“What if she was kidnapped and just disappeared?” Oh God, did he just say that out loud? He flinched from the coldness in Seshimora's face.

“You will not shame her, Prince Kato.”

Kato blinked. He stepped back from the man and just stared blankly. Not shame her? That was worse than death? If she left, she could have her family. She could have babies. She could have her happy ending. She could lead the life she dreamed of between each cover of her thirteen books.

Seshimora seemed to understand Kato's confusion and added, “She has chosen a warrior's death. It is a good death. She will forgive him.”

Kato closed his eyes. He hadn't thought of it that way before. He did understand that. He didn't like it though, but he understood. He eased himself down on the edge of the fountain and sat. He concentrated on the cold stone beneath him and the spray of water against his back. He felt like he was choking on the scent of chlorine. He dropped his head and brought his hands up to massage his eyes. He barked a quiet laugh that sounded more like a muffled sob.

“You will not interfere?”

Kato didn't open his eyes but did shake his head twice. His eyes felt gritty, like dry sand. He rubbed them again. His headache was returning with a vengeance.

“Prince Kato....”

“It's fine,” he said and froze. He sounded just like Seshimora again. It wasn't fine, but this was her decision to make. She has earned it. Kato raised his head briefly and gave Seshimora a sickly smile.

Her words came back to Kato. “It's a gift...One that I will never know...I don't know if I'm strong enough.”

Fusako was only fifteen. True, she was small like Kato, but she was so confident, strong and had a such a sick sense of humor, it was hard to remember how young she was. She was one of the most forward persons he'd met, much like Shinko. He shuddered. She could run, flee just about anywhere, but she was choosing death, just like Takimore...to protect the one she loved.

Kato had a sudden thought. He raised his head too quickly and was glad he was sitting. The headache was growing worse. He pushed the nausea down and spit out, “Why are you telling me this now?”

“I know you didn't care to watch me perform my Katas,” Seshimora said with a faint smile before it faded. “I wanted to give you an opportunity to prepare.”

Kato frowned. Something was tickling his memory. Something that Shinko said. “It was quick work.....And televised. All direct challenges are.” Kato shook his head before Seshimora spoke again. “No,” he said firmly, still shaking his head.

“We will be expected to be in attendance, Prince Kato,” Seshimora said gently as Kato's eyes grew wider. Kato shook his head again.

“Do not shame her.”

Kato glared at the bigger man, which was difficult since he had to look up so far. He leaned backwards and asked angrily, “When?”

Seshimora looked uncertain. He sat next to Kato and craned his head oddly to stare at Kato. “Prince Shinko made his announcement to Princess Fusako and father during first meal.” Kato nodded, urging him to continue. “Tonight, Prince Kato. Challenge is tonight.”

Kato nodded. He knew this was coming, just not this soon. He turned his body away from Seshimora, sliding his rear against the rough stone. He brought his legs up and dropped them into the circle with the largest fountain. His feet barely skimmed the surface. He dipped his toes into the cool water and shakily breathed in the strong chlorine smell again. He didn't know what he felt. He decided he was passed the point where much could really shock him.

It wasn't uncomfortable to sit in silence with Seshimora. They always seemed to struggle with words. Kato was grateful for Seshimora's silence now and he enjoyed the sun on his face and arms, even his naked feet. He stretched his legs out and widened his toes to catch the spray from the fountain. He leaned backwards, easing his arms behind himself, palms flat and elbows locked. He watched Seshimora out of the corner of his eyes.

The big man was facing the opposite direction from Kato. He seemed relaxed, his feet crossed in front of himself, his hands resting on either side of his body. He stared off, somewhere near the maize. Kato watched the man take a deep breath, his body relaxing further. Kato eased his feet into the water again, running his widened toes through the cool water. He was tempted to enjoy the silence and wait until it was time to leave. Hell, he was tempted to lose himself in the maize and just wait it out, but something tickled his curiosity.

“Why did you invite me out here? You could have told me anytime today,” Kato murmured.

Seshimora didn't answer at first. Kato was ready to leave when he felt the heat and weight of a larger hand on his own. He glanced down in surprise. The man rarely touched him. He always had a purpose when he had in the past. It never seemed sexual or even comforting.

“I know you do not understand our ways.” The larger man shifted and Kato turned to look at him. Seshimora gave him a small, weak smile.

He expected some explanation he hadn't heard from all of the royal family. He expected an apology. Maybe even a history lesson. What he should have expected was something that was purely Seshimora.

“I saw the joy in your smile, in your eyes when you bested me. I saw it again in a photo,” he said, watching Kato frown. “You were holding a fish.”

What the hell is that supposed to mean? Was he making fun of him?

Kato couldn't explain why, but his stupid body chose that moment to spread a thin layer of blood beneath the pale skin of his cheeks and ears, spreading to his neck and lower. He wasn't embarrassed for enjoying the time he spent with either man. He tried to will the heat in his face and neck away and failed. Kato cleared his throat and looked away. His body was always embarrassing him like this. What the hell was wrong with him? He jerked slightly when he felt the pressure on his hand increase.

He met the soft look in the older man's face and felt...anger. He wanted the man to be mad at him, to be outraged and rage at Kato. He didn't want pity. He didn't even want understanding. But the damn man was calm and Kato couldn't stand it. He wanted to say something hurtful.

It was stupid, and yet Kato found himself asking, “Was it worth it,” in a soft voice, contrary to his own tense face and rigid limbs. He watched Seshimora blink and he added, “Murdering someone you love...so your family line continues to rule,” in a voice filled with so much venom he nearly choked. And immediately regretted it when he saw the sadness in the lines around Seshimora's eyes, a weariness that never quite left the big man's eyes since Kato met the man.

“I nearly forgot my duty,” Seshimora said quietly, and looked down where their hands were touching, his hand nearly crushing Kato's. Seshimora withdrew his hand and watched Kato rub his own lightly.

“I didn't-” Kato tried to apologize, feeling awful now. The man tried to give him an opportunity to relax and prepare before something awful happened. Something he could neither stop nor change and this is how he repays the man?

“Takimore reminded me of my duty,” Seshimora said gently. He looked off towards the maize again, an odd look coming over his face. Kato turned to face him, crossing his legs in front of himself and drew them to closer. He was nearly touching the big man. He waited until Seshimora's quiet voice continued.

“He said I have a responsibility to the people of this planet. I cannot place the life of one, even someone I love, over billions. When your role, Prince Kato,” he paused turning to watch Kato again, “became clear, my responsibility grew to include the welfare and stability of all of those who live near the jumps points of our wormhole.”

Kato's breath left him so suddenly, it felt like a physical blow. Seshimora moved to help him and he frantically waived the man off. Kato's hands and eyes dropped to his own lap. He could feel the big man hovering close, in case he was needed.

His pant legs were wet and Kato traced his hand along one, staring into his lap, desperately wishing the earth would just swallow him whole. Didn't he have this conversation this morning with Redaku? He thought Redaku was wrong. That man refused to fulfill his duty, refused to do what was right. Seshimora was forced to make a difficult choice. He placed the welfare of others higher than his own needs and did his duty. Kato found himself respecting the man and hating himself for it. He felt like he was betraying Redaku.

His grandfather would have liked this man.

“I don't want you to hate him,” Seshimora's voice was a few feet a way now.

Kato slowly raised his eyes until they met Seshimora's kind face. He didn't trust himself to say anything. So far he'd only proven to them both, he was stupid and cruel. He waited until the man explained himself because he knew how expressive his face was and he was confused.

“Prince Shinko's duty is clear. He has the same choice as I did, Prince Kato.”

He couldn't stop the misery rising off himself. He backed away snagging the fabric of his pants on the rough surface of the fountain. It wasn't the same choice. Not now. Not with the interference of Redaku and politicians from his planet.

“I know you do not understand our ways.”

“You didn't answer my question,” Kato said, drawing his legs up and wrapping his arms around his knees. “Was it worth it,” he asked again, this time gently.

“Yes.”

Kato nodded, watching the pain flicker across the bigger man's face. There was a stiffness to Seshimora's shoulders now. One that Kato knew he put there. For once, Kato understood what the man must think.

His grandfather would have respected this man.

A large shadow covered Kato and he shivered again. The sun was lower on the horizon. Summer on Kitsurin was slowly making way for fall. It wasn't as warm now, but the mild wind was dying. Shadows grew longer and the dampness of the fountains was beginning to chill Kato.

“I don't hate you,” Kato murmured, shivering, his voice was soft like his eyes.

Kato watched the big man slowly walk towards him. Seshimora looked relieved, not pleased or even happy, just relieved. Kato eased himself forward. He gripped the extended hand and let it slowly draw him up. He stood looking up into the big man's face and offered reassurance. He took the man's arm and smiled inwardly, feeling silly for being helped back to his chair and not caring this time.

They walked slowly. Kato liked the sturdy feel of warmed stone under his naked feet. Soon the sun's heat would leave and so he enjoyed the warmth as long as he could. He moved even slower, allowing his toes to grip the worn edges in the circular pattern beneath him. He liked the spongy, dampness of the lichen that grew in between the stones near the fountains. He hadn't noticed it before.

Kato eased himself into his chair. The height of the chair was awkward and he had to lean forward farther than he was comfortable with to reach his shoe. Seshimora crouched in front of him and picked up his left shoe. Kato nodded. He lifted his left leg, bending it at the knee and watched as the big man slowly slipped the shoe on, careful of Kato's toes and heel. His right shoe went just smoothly. The big man helped Kato to his feet and offered his arm.

A wry smile greeted Seshimora's gentle offer of aid. Kato shook his head as he took the man's forearm again. The clicking sound of someone's shoes was distracting. He gripped the man's forearm a little tighter as they entered the palace.

He understood why the big man chose to walk without shoes today. He understood why he had to concentrate in silence and practice his Katas outside today. He understood why it was so important for Seshimora to have this talk with him. He understood what the big man needed from him.

Seshimora lost himself in the sleek movement of muscle and limb while shifting from one movement to the next in his dance. He enjoyed the silence. He enjoyed the warmth of the sun, the smell of earth and moisture and the textures of earth and stone and life beneath him. He sought a few quiet moments to himself to prepare.

This quiet man had watched both Shinko and Fusako grow and mature, becoming the people they were today. He was the oldest. He had nurtured, taught and been a role model for his siblings, all younger than himself. He would have to watch and do nothing while his siblings painted the foundation of their home in red as all Kitsurin royalty have in the past.

But most of all – Seshimora sought reassurance that he wasn't evil, wasn't loathed for making a choice that ate at him a little each day.

One or a billion?

Choosing one would have been the ultimate selfish act. This man would carry that weary, sadness with him every day of his life. For the first time, Kato felt sincere empathy for this quiet man, this strong man. Strong men were often lonely and chose solitary lives. Kato knew Seshimora would be no different and it filled him with sadness.

Kato followed Seshimora, lightly clinging to the man's arm. There could be worse places for him to be. He stole a glance at Seshimora. The man moved lightly with quiet confidence. Kato sighed, steeling himself.

He would not shame her.

Or him.