The Twin Thrones

Kato slept through the evening meal and through the first rays of sunlight. His eyes felt gritty and he rubbed them, slowly focusing on the huge blob that became Noberu. The large man sat in a wide, high back chair, his right ankle crossed over his left knee. How did caveman managed to look alert and bored at the same time?

Kato took in his surroundings. He didn't remember making it to his bed. Noberu must have brought him here. He breathed deeply. On the exhale, he drew the sheet and numerous thin blankets from his overly warm body. He looked down. He didn't remember changing into loose pajamas either. He stood and wobbled a bit. Noberu started to stand and Kato waived him off.

He still felt drugged, but he could freaking walk. Noberu shrugged and stayed sitting, straightening his legs in front of himself. Kato watched him for a moment. “Thank you,” he murmured, meeting Noberu's eyes. The larger man nodded but was silent. Kato was thankful for that as well. He didn't want to talk about it. He didn't need to be reminded about murdering siblings. He didn't want to feel weak again. He needed something to distract him.

He wobbled to the bathroom. Kato relieved himself. He crossed the room and stood in front of the sink, looking at himself in the mirror and turned on the faucet to wash his hands. He didn't know how long he just stood there, uncertainty gnawing at him, while warm water rushed over his trembling hands. The dark circles under his eyes looked like smudged makeup on his pale face. His hair must have been damp when he laid down. It was curled and poking out at weird directions. He looked like shit.

He finished washing his hands, shut off the faucet and turned, leaning against the cold, long granite sink top. His hands were still wet. He eased his wet hands behind himself on either side of his hips and leaned back even further, letting the coldness seep into his bones. He didn't want to leave the safety of the bathroom. It was the only place he did not have an audience.

A tentative knock surprised Kato and his slick hands slipped out from under him, making a sharp squeaking sound that filled the large bathroom. He fell hard against the unyielding granite, striking his elbows roughly. The familiar sharp numbness raced up his arms and he bit his lip, a little too hard, to keep himself from crying out.

“Kato,” Redaku's voice was low and hesitant, “You've been in there a long time.” Crap, did he lock the door?

The door started to open slowly. Kato leaped forward to shut it, but his arms and hands were still too numb. He misjudged the distance and whacked his right hand on the door knob. It barely shuddered as Redaku entered the room to find him gently shaking his right arm and grimacing.

“Why are you bleeding?” Kato frowned. Redaku gently touched two fingers to Kato's bottom lip. Kato repressed another grimace. Redaku drew his hand away, twisted it around and held out two red-tipped fingers.

Kato groaned. Wonderful, he couldn't even take a piss without hurting himself! His arms were throbbing painfully now. He could feel his heart speeding up a little. He really just wanted to be left the fuck alone.

“I wouldn't have hurt myself if you hadn't barged in,” Kato retorted.

Redaku shook his head. He moved past Kato, ignoring the glare, and washed his fingers under the water. He calmly dried his hands and turned to face Kato. “You need to make yourself presentable.”

“Why?”

Redaku didn't look happy either. “You missed evening meal. They are worried about you and have been asking about you. I can't put them off anymore. I told them you'll join all three of them in one hour.”

Kato seethed. He could feel his face darkening. He was really fucking tired of people telling him how to dress, how to act, what to think. He wasn't a child and didn't want or need anyone to “protect” him anymore. He wanted to hit the man but settled with growling, “Get out.” He watched Redaku's face and knew the older man was going to protest. Kato moved quickly to the door and jerked his head towards the opening before Redaku could sputter a reply. Redaku's lips thinned, but he left without another word. Kato flung the door closed and locked it.

It was silent. He waited. He knew Noberu would remain in his bedroom. He couldn't tell if Redaku did. Kato released the breath he didn't realize he was holding. He wasn't in any hurry. He didn't make the arrangements. He looked around and tried to decide what to do next.

There were two elaborate, grass-woven baskets on the granite sink under the hanging towels. A smaller one was perched on the short cabinet next to the toilet. Kato searched through them. They held several fragrant oils, lotions and bath salts. Kato had never used any before and couldn't imagine using them now.

He walked over to the four-person, oval-shaped tub. Sleek black granite columns anchored either side of the stairs leading down into the tub. He moved closer. There were two large faucets on either side of the columns. He studied one before turning it and tested the water. He crossed to the other side of the column and started another. The room quickly filled with warm steam. It felt nice. He studied the other knobs until he found what he wanted. Multiple jets turned the clear water white and frothy.

Kato pulled his pajama top off in one quick, smooth motion and flung it away from himself. He slowly ran his hands along the inside of the elastic band on his pajama pants until his fingers graced each hip. He eased them off of his thin hips until they puddled at his feet. He was a little surprised he wasn't wearing anything underneath. He stepped out of them.

Running his hand along a column, he enjoyed the coolness of the granite column and rested his forehead against it. It helped clear his mind. He had enough of reality for a while. He breathed in the steam and then slowly eased his feet down the steps, careful not to slip.

The churning water was hot but not burning. When the water reached his knees, he stopped on the staircase, waiting until he was accustomed to the heat. He grasped the sturdy thin railing and turned. Kato couldn't hear anything over the dual faucets and churning water. The mirrors across the room were foggy and condensation ran in small thin rivulets to pool on the white granite top.

Kato eased his way further into the submerged tub. Using his feet as a guide, he found the raised section and slowly eased himself on to it. The tub was deeper than it appeared but sitting, the water barely reached his crotch. At this rate, it would fill within fifteen minutes or so. Kato pushed himself backwards until his legs were nearly horizontal and his back hit the back of the tub. It was surprisingly cold compared to the heat around him and he shivered.

Moving his hands through the water, he reached his legs and brushed the tops lightly. He could feel his heart racing already in anticipation. His breathing quickened and sweat dotted his forehead. He searched through the oils and scented fragrances until he found one that promised few bubbles. He squeezed a small amount of pearly fluid into his palm. He set the bottle aside.

Closing his eyes, Kato remembered Shinko's eyes, darkening with lust. He felt his dick twitch. Bad thought. Bad dick. He wasn't going there. Kato remembered how the muscles in Fusako's legs twisted and flexed while she turned in the air. Her rear was flexing, twitching for his fingers, when she landed. He imagined grinding their groins together before she dropped to her knees. Her eyes were dark when she raised her face. Her ruby lips twisted before she slowly ran a pink tongue across her plump lower lip.

Kato wrapped his hand around the base of his hardening cock and stroked lightly, teasing the weeping tip with his thumb. He drew a ragged breath as he imagined Fusako licking the tip of his straining erection. He gasped when she swallowed him whole. He stroked harder and faster, squeezing until it was almost painful and shivered for an entirely different reason.

He could already feel the familiar tension in his balls and eased off a little, slowing his hand. He wasn't ready yet. The water was churning and reached the tops of his legs. His dick was partially submerged now.

Kato squeezed his eyes tighter and imagined Fusako licking along the throbbing veins of his cock. He imagined forcing her head into his crotch. He enjoyed watching his cock move in and out of Fusako's stretched mouth. He groaned loudly and actually felt himself harden even more.

His left hand tightened into a fist. Kato could see his hand twisting the man's silken hair, wrapping it around his thin hand and forcing himself deeper into the warm cavern. He timed his strokes with the bobbing of the man's head. The heat was almost unbearable now. Strong muscles ripples along the man's shoulders and Kato flexed his hips, driving them up.

Beads of moisture and sweat gathered on his reddened face, neck and chest. Kato's strokes were growing wilder and faster, churning the water erratically. Water reached his stomach now, increasing the friction until it was almost painful. The lube was mixing with the water. He licked his lips, tasting salt and copper. His toes were beginning to curl and the muscles in his abdomen tightened painfully. He wasn't certain what he cried out as his seed pulsed into the water, mingling with the churning water around him.

Kato collapsed against the back of the tub, breathing heavily. He felt lighter now. He really needed that. He waited for his breathing to slow down.

He opened his blurry eyes and jumped. He slipped and went under the churning water. His head broke the surface. Kato coughed and sputtered, “What the hell!” He wiped the hair and water out of his eyes, blinking rapidly. Great. Now not even the bathroom was a refuge. “How the fuck did you get in?!” How long had he been standing there? Kato wouldn't ask that. He was too hot and could feel the familiar warmth burning his cheeks. He was beginning to feel lightheaded. He covered his groin.

Noberu frowned.

The caveman knelt and shut off the remaining faucet. “You only locked the door.” Sweat was beginning to form on his forehead. The big man straightened. “You didn't answer me.”

Kato blinked. “I didn't hear you,” he said, still panting lightly. He was really hot.

“Obviously,” the tone was bland. Kato didn't need to ask now. The perverted ape obviously saw him jerking off. Considerate of him, waiting for him to finish. Fucker!

He really wanted to just drown. He was a man. He had needs. Why was he so embarrassed? Kato dropped his eyes. Not looking at the big man made talking to him easier. “What do you want?” he forced out.

“Your father has requested a conference with you.” Kato looked at him sharply. “Now.” Noberu's features were smooth, giving away nothing. He knelt down again and turned several knobs and pulled a lever up. The jets stopped abruptly and Kato heard the familiar groan of a drain. Noberu stood and turned, grabbing a large, plush towel. He walked over to the stairs, holding the towel, and waited for Kato.

Grinding his teeth, Kato resisted the urge to scream. Why the hell was that damn ape still here? They were both men, but Kato hadn't seen the big guy stroking himself to completion. It was damned embarrassing! It was a private moment. The man had no right to just stand there, watching him. Now he acted as if nothing happened. Fine. Kato could pretend, too.

Kato moved quickly and reached the bottom of the stairs before the dizziness returned. He grabbed the railing and held on. He shook it off and claimed three steps before he had to stop. He was panting again. He was even hotter now. The sound of the drain started to fall away. He heard the big man say something to him but it was muffled like he was still under water. It took a while but he managed to look up. Kato marveled as the color left the big man's face along with everything else in his vision.

____________________________________________________________________

Noberu never liked getting wet. He had no choice but to catch the youth before he drowned. He should have known it would happen. The drugs were only meant to calm him, but they kept him down through the afternoon and evening. The kid was still wobbly after he woke. The last thing he needed was to sit in a sauna surrounded by churning water.

At first, he thought Seshimora's confession was more than the kid could bear. Kato had many shocks already, maybe this was one too many? The kid knew enough about the planet's history, it shouldn't have been more than he could bear. Hadn't Noberu bitched out Redaku for thinking Kato was weak and now he himself was underestimating the kid?

He felt guilty. For many things.

He should have entered the bathroom sooner or maybe he should have said something before he walked into the bathroom. He probably could have knocked. He was pretty certain he should have given the kid a few minutes of privacy after he found the youth stroking himself.

At the time, Noberu tried to remind himself he was working. The kid was pretty, but he was a professional, and yet, he just stood there like a voyeur. He always liked porn, he enjoyed watching others enjoying themselves. It wasn't much of an excuse.

He felt really guilty.

He had watched the dark-haired youth at the back of the over-sized tub, head was thrown back, panting with his eyes closed. His hair was wet, clinging to face. Noberu felt his own dick twitch when the kid licked his lips, drawing in the moisture and blood collecting on his lips. Blood? He wasn't certain why there would be blood on the kid's lips and didn't care much at the time. He could tell the kid was close. His hand was moving erratically, churning the water even more than the jets. Noberu blinked when he heard the kid cry out “Shinko” when he finally came. Noberu was dripping with moisture and suddenly felt like he'd be doused with cold water.

That's about the time he remembered his job. Fuck. He was glad he was able to smooth his features and talk to the kid without reacting to his nakedness and embarrassment. Of course, it wasn't really helping him now.

Noberu wrapped the towel around the kid and dragged him out of the receding water. He picked the kid up and brought him over to the sink. It was awkward, but he managed to wet a small towel with cold water and keep the kid from hitting the floor. He wiped the kid's hair away from his forehead and dabbed the kid's face and forehead. It was still too awkward. He carefully set the kid onto the long granite sink top. Noberu turned him around until the kid's back was resting against his chest. The large towel had gotten twisted and most of the kid's bits were showing. He groaned.

This was fucking stupid!

That's about the time Redaku chose to return. The older man gasped. Apparently one of his fears was coming true. Great. He threatened the man last night and now he looked like he was molesting the kid.

These things never happen to him.

Before the man could accuse him of anything, Noberu grunted, “He fainted. He was taking a bath, if I hadn't been here, he would have drowned.”

The older man had the sense to keep his damn mouth shut. Noberu was acutely aware that Kato was naked, he came just a few minutes ago and now he was unconscious nestled against Noberu's thick chest. The kid felt really warm.

It looked pretty bad.

He shook his head and cursed. He needed to cool the kid off. Redaku didn't move. His mouth was opening and closing. He obviously wanted to say something but fear choked him.

Noberu didn't feel guilty or ashamed now but he was starting to get pissed off. He wrapped one arm around Kato's back and another under his knees. He picked the kid up with ease. “Move,” he barked.

Redaku jerked and quickly stepped out of the way. The door was left open. Noberu kicked it the rest of the way. The towel was tangled in Noberu's legs. He kicked it out of the way, too.

The cold air was unpleasant. He quickly carried Kato to the bed and gently laid him down. He looked over at Rato. The man's eyes were as big as saucers. Wonderful. He finally got a reaction from the man. Figures it would be something this fucking stupid!

“Get the medical staff back. He's not reacting well to the medication.” Rato recovered quickly. He nodded and used his communication devise. He moved off into the background.

Gripping the kid's face in his large wide hands, Noberu gently patted the kid's cheeks. “Kato,” he said and then repeated himself a little louder. The kid didn't even twitch. Noberu was starting to get worried. He couldn't stop frowning.

Redaku joined them on the bed. He pushed Noberu's hands away gently. He met Noberu's eyes and was silent. Noberu drew the thin sheet up to cover Kato's bits. They sat in silence and waited for the medical staff.

____________________________________________________________________

The test results weren't back yet. The medical staff started pushing intravenous fluids as soon as they arrived. Then they did little else except take blood samples and check the kid's blood pressure, temperature and eyes every thirty minutes. His breathing was normal and the redness in his cheeks lessened within an hour. Kato had woken up a couple of times but wasn't coherent and immediately dropped back into unconsciousness.

Noberu left Redaku earlier that morning. He hated feeling useless, so he found a few things that needed doing. Rato was left to watch the kid. He'd brief Rato when he had time later this evening.

At this point, he didn't really trust many. Redaku was able to circumvent him. He identified the remaining men on his detail who needed to be replaced. Their loyalties obviously lay elsewhere. He would start weeding them out in the next few weeks and bringing his own men in. He left a message with his superior and requested the next group of men start their sixth month assignment early. They were men he trusted.

He'd taken all the precautions he could and still something had happened to the kid. It might have been completely accidental or not. It did nothing to bolster his ego.

Noberu realized he and Rato were stretched too thin and he needed at least one more person who could make better decisions when he wasn't present. Basang was a loyal man, but one of the biggest assholes he'd ever met. Of course once Kato had the procedure, things would start to happen very quickly. He had little choice. He made the request and would just have to wait.

He returned a couple of hours later to find Redaku had not moved from the kid's side. He was still looking desperately for signs of improvement. The kid's short, dark locks were curled, clinging to his cheeks and forehead again. Noberu placed his hand gently on the older man's shoulder. He felt him stiffen.

“King Miyazaki is waiting,” Noberu murmured.

Redaku ignored him. The man's concern over Kato was overshadowing everything. They could do nothing more to help the kid. The older man moved several of Kato's damp locks away from his face. He cupped the kid's face with his hands, the same gesture as Noberu earlier, and murmured Kato's name several times. The darkened lashes flickered but did not open. He should be conscious by now. Was Kato more delicate than he led them to believe?

They couldn't afford to take chances with him. The kid had no living siblings. No one could fill his place. If this didn't work, it would might mean war. Twin planets with two sets of rulers, two separate societies, too many groups who did not have the same goal in mind would reduce each other to quivering pools of cooling meat.

The UP would let them. They was still tracking the many jump points this wormhole had. There were so many possibilities. If the experts could be believed, they expected this wormhole to be one of the most stable they'd ever seen. It was worth more than a few lives. It was worth the destruction of every living thing on both planets.

Noberu waited a few more minutes. The advisor obviously loved Kato. Maybe Kato replaced his own son in the older man's heart. He saw Kato's first steps, heard his first words, probably saw the firsts of everything. He knew this wasn't easy for the man. Hell, it wasn't easy for any of them.

Noberu leaned forward and gently drew Redaku's hands away. Shockingly, Redaku allowed him to and then frowned. They met each other's eyes before Noberu cleared his throat. “He's in good hands,” he said without frustration coloring his tone.

He wasn't looking forward to the meeting. He knew damn well how awkward it was now. He was fully expecting Redaku to demand that he be removed from his position. It wouldn't happen. That was the uniqueness that was him. He earned quite a reputation as the man who had no limits, no line he would not cross. The UP wouldn't allow him to be replaced. It didn't matter what he did.

He was fully expecting some sordid version of the truth getting back to his superiors. They would expect him to influence the kid by any means necessary. After being seen carrying a naked Kato from his bath, well, it didn't take a genius to know what line they would expect him to cross. It was so fucking stupid! Why couldn't Redaku have found the kid instead? Of course, the man would have knocked and Kato wouldn't have heard him. Redaku wouldn't have picked the lock and the kid would have drowned.

There was a slight tightening around Redaku's eyes. “I haven't forgotten,” he said angrily. He withdrew his hands and stood. He followed Noberu and several guards. He lingered at the door, turning back to catch one last glimpse at Kato before following Noberu.

The walk was long. Redaku appeared to withdraw into himself as they transversed the length of the palace. Noberu was beginning to become worried. The advisor should be handling all of this better.

Noberu opened the door, moving far enough away to allow Redaku to pass. He stationed two men outside of the room. He made a point to remind them to only interrupt if something was learned about Kato's condition. They nodded their understanding and stood at attention, eyes panning back and forth. Noberu entered the room and closed the door behind him.

"I do not need a babysitter," Redaku said calmly. He would have pulled the look off had his left eye not twitched erratically.

"Kato said the same," Noberu replied with a wry grin, "And he would have drowned had I not been there."

He knew he was a hypocrite. He threatened the man yesterday and was now claiming Redaku needed to be watched for his own safety. Kato would suffer without the comfort and familiarity Redaku offered. Noberu didn't want to have to take that away.

Redaku shuddered and glared but wisely dropped the subject. Noberu pulled a creme-colored suede swivel chair out from the elongated black table. He waited patiently until Redaku finally sat down. He shrugged when Redaku jerked the chair away. Noberu took his place to the right of the man. He remained standing.

The low hum of the seventy-five inch computer screen filled the uncomfortable silence. Normally it would be annoying, but Noberu considered himself lucky – it was better than listening to Redaku bitch.

The communication link was a pain to set up. Noberu ended up having to locate a device procured from a quaint place in the Milky Way. He located it nearly three months ago and was now pleased he'd taken the time to. The device was extremely effective at scrambling signals bounced off of public satellites while using little to no energy. With the low energy signal, it was impossible to trace and equally impossible to hack.

They waited a little over fifteen minutes before the screen hiccuped and a whirling sound grew louder. Noberu adjusted the signal. Slowly an image became clearer.

He had a quiet intensity. Dark brown hair, with the gray threaded through it, stopped at his shoulders in sleek waves. His face was narrow like Kato's but much longer and ended with double impressions on either side of chin. He was obviously much taller than Kato as well, six feet and some change. He wore a dark shirt with sliver highlighting the narrow collar. The silver in his hair and collar complimented each other. His black pants were sleek and pleated. King Miyazaki smiled warmly at Redaku though his gray eyes were colder. He smoothly lowered himself into a wide, elegantly carved black lacquered chair. He rested his arms comfortably on the glass table top.

"How is my son?" The man ignored niceties and went straight to his greatest concern. If the man was surprised at Noberu's presence, he didn't let it show.

"He's still fading in and out of unconsciousness. His fever is down and his breathing and heart rate are finally normal. The blood tests aren't back yet. It's too early to suspect anything. It's probably a bad reaction to the mild sedative he was given last night," Redaku said though he didn't sound as if he believed it.

King Miyazaki nodded, distracted, as if in thought.

"Perhaps our medical team should come now. Even though our physiology is similar to Kitsurins', it's not one hundred percent identical. Kato hasn't been under their care for his entire life." Redaku's voice was neutral. He had wanted to call their medical team the minute it was clear something was wrong with the kid. Noberu wouldn't allow it yet. He explained several times the medical team on Kitsurin was cleared. There was no reason to suspect any of them. One person on it was from the Radekoun team and would report anything suspicious. Redaku obviously didn't believe him.

Pursing his lips, Miyazaki shook his head. "We cannot. It would look suspicious. It's being reported on both planets that Kato had a mild allergic reaction. It's important for appearances."

Redaku's eyes widened and he blurted out, "Surely, you're overreacting?" Redaku didn't seem angry. He took a deep breath. The man wasn't handling the stress well. "Are appearances more important than his well being?" He said, shaking his head.

Miyazaki smiled fondly at his advisor. "You've let the brat get the better of you, my friend.”

Redaku winced. "I've said the same of you for many years," he murmured.

"I know," Miyazaki said just as softly. "Redaku there have been some complications. I had planned on including Kato in the discussion, but it can't wait." Redaku nodded and settled back into his chair. He stopped as if remembering something and glanced over at Noberu.

Noberu wanted to groan. It didn't matter what either of them thought, he would remain. His role was simple: Do everything in his power to bind the twin thrones together. Right now it meant marriage and children. It could change. It wasn't wise to add that though.

Miyazaki frowned. "Mr. Haitatsu can remain if he chooses to."

Redaku looked at Miyazaki sharply. He seemed hesitant to say anything but he plodded on, his voice was a little high and quivered slightly, "I have some concerns about Mr. Haitatsu's methods, especially regarding Kato's well being." It sounded like he added something under his breath, but Noberu couldn't make it out clearly.

"My friend, Mr. Haitatsu comes highly recommended. The UP chose him specifically for this position," he said stressing the word "specifically". "The UP has made it clear Mr. Haitatsu's involvement remains contingent with their cooperation as arbitrators and, of course, induction consideration.”

Redaku looked over at Noberu, his eyes widening, as if seeing Noberu for the first time. Noberu kept his face smooth and expressionless. Redaku was getting tiresome.

“It is in Mr. Haitatsu's best interest Kato remain unharmed in every sense," Miyazaki added seeing Redaku's shiver. Redaku dropped his eyes and shook his head slightly but was silent. He obviously wasn't happy with Miyazaki.

"You have something to add?” asked Miyazaki calmly.

"You didn't see Kato...naked in that,” Redaku said angrily jerking his head in Noberu's direction, “man's arms. He...." Redaku shuddered. Really – was that necessary? Please, the older man was obviously playing up to his audience.

"What? I already told you," Noberu grumbled and couldn't help but sound annoyed. The man needed to beaten for his own good.

"Yes, you did," Redaku grunted. He turned to face Noberu again, swiveling the chair violently. "But I saw the bruises,” he said pointing at Noberu. He was shaking his head. “ Kato didn't have them before he went into his bedroom yesterday morning. I saw them when you were holding him...when he was naked...," the man seemed at a loss of words. Now. Noberu had to work to keep his features smooth. He really wanted to hurt the man. He totally forgot about the bruises though.

Miyazaki turned calm gray eyes to Noberu and waited for an explanation.

"I told Kato something he didn't like. He attacked me. I stopped him, easily," he said shrugging. He looked over at Redaku, frowning. "I didn't hurt him. He needs to understand his limitations," he added returning his eyes to Miyazaki.

Miyazaki nodded. His hands were as relaxed as before. He twined his fingers together and rested them before himself. "Kato has a temper,” he murmured more to himself. “He acts before thinking. Yes, he got many things from his mother," he finished with a tightness around his eyes. It passed quickly, as if it hadn't even been there. "Redaku, the man won't harm Kato. The UP needs this union. We want the same thing."

Redaku shook his head. "You...you don't know him," he breathed. Now he inched away from Noberu. He glanced over at him apprehensively. "He threatened me."

Miyazaki nodded. He either approved or understood. He didn't seem surprised.

"I want to be clear,” Noberu said, measuring the man in front of him. He felt himself relax. This he could do in his sleep. “Redaku does something to jeopardize joining the twin thrones and he'll be removed one way or another," Noberu added calmly. Miyazaki nodded again. Apparently this man understood. Noberu turned his attention back to Redaku. "You need a babysitter," he said not unkindly.

Miyazaki blinked. He looked between the two men. "Redaku," Miyazaki murmured.

"NO!" Redaku stood abruptly. "You don't understand what he's capable of. You haven't seen his eyes," he choked out. "Kato needs more protectors from Radekoun. You must listen to me." He was breathing heavily, his left eye twitching erratically.

"My friend," Miyazaki murmured. "I do understand," he looked over at Noberu before returning to watch his advisor. "If he has extended his protection to you, you should consider taking it. Do you understand?"

Redaku's eyes grew stricken. His fists were shaking on either side of his body. His breathing was uneven. He was only looking at his life long friend now, hurt clearly clouding his eyes.

"For now, Kato is in good hands," Miyazaki said clearly, sounding as if he actually believed those words.

Noberu nodded, his face expressionless.

"Please be calm. Have a seat. We have much to discuss," Miyazaki said gesturing to his advisor's chair.

The older man remained standing, his heavy breathing was even louder than the hum of the large screen. Miyazaki's smooth features and cold eyes did not waiver. Noberu moved slowly to Redaku. He moved the chair closer to him and held it for him as Noberu did after they entered the room. Redaku stared at him and then at the chair. His face was flushed. He was struggling to control himself.

"Redaku," Miyazaki said coldly. He seemed to be growing impatient. "Take. Your. Seat," steel was threaded through his voice.

Redaku shook himself and sat heavily, blowing out a huge breath when he landed. He took another shaky breath before leaning back into his chair. “I'm listening,” he said his voice clear and unwavering.

Miyazaki nodded. “Administrator Counsel Member Hitoruson was found dead in his study yesterday evening. Authorities estimate his death early afternoon, a single shot to the back of his head. No one heard anything, no signs of forced entry. Two hours ago, four bombs were coordinated to explode at the same time. They destroyed a private business that housed a daycare, the largest law firm in the capital city, a law enforcement training center and a day spa where the largest landowner, Wakai Rohito, happened to be using.”

It was silent.

"You believe both acts are related,” Noberu said, settling into a chair next to Redaku.

“Don't you?” Miyazaki glanced over at Redaku. Redaku nodded, rubbing his eyes. He pinched his temples hard.

“Wakai Rohito practically bought Hitoruson's seat and later his bid as Administrator. Someone is certainly sending a message to the rest of the counsel,” Redaku said quietly. He finished rubbing his temples. He looked up to meet Miyazaki's eyes and watched Miyazaki nod his approval.

“Who stands to gain the open seat on the counsel?” Noberu asked, scratching his forehead. It was already starting. Politics. And something that is always inevitable when dealing with politicians. Killing.

Miyazaki took a breath, chewing on his lip absently. He pushed his streaked locks behind both ears. “There are four: Botan, Kisho, Shinichi and Yasuo. Botan carries favor with many counsel members. It will be ruthless now while they sort it out. As royalty, I cannot interfere. Checks and balances,” Miyazaki murmured.

“If something happens to you and Kato, who is in charge?” Noberu asked.

Both Miyazaki and Redaku looked sharply at Noberu. Neither spoke. “Who is in charge,” Noberu asked again quietly. Noberu assumed it was the administrator and not the man in charge of their military forces. That would be insane.

“The Administrator...of the counsel.” Miyazaki said beginning to worry his lips again. Kato didn't get much from his father, neither his looks nor his temperament, but he definitely got this nervous habit. Redaku remained quiet. He was beginning to rub his temples with the tips of his fingers with both hands.

Noberu leaned back for a moment. If Miyazaki was removed from the throne, one way or another, Kato would automatically take the throne. Of course, because of negotiations with Kitsurin, Kato would remain on Kitsurin during each of his pregnancies. Kato would be unable to rule from Kitsurin. The Administrator would rule in this place during all of his absences.

"Have any counsel members suddenly come into large amounts of money?” Noberu asked following another line of thought.

A loud knock at the door startled them all. Noberu rose quickly and crossed the room. He slowly opened the door. A short doughy man with stringy hair stood in front of him. Noberu recognized him. “Mr. Haitatsu, I was told you wanted to be interrupted when we learned more about Prince Kato's condition.” Noberu nodded. He moved back and allowed the man to enter.

“Doctor Bankuson,” Noberu said as an introduction and gestured to his now vacant seat. The man jerked a little, but quickly took his seat. He set a file in front of himself and gripped the edges nervously. “What have you learned?"

"We identified a very small amount of a neurological toxin in Prince Kato,” the small man said clearly without any nervousness now. “The ground, dried bones of an endangered sea creature found only in the seas of Kitsurin is considered an aphrodisiac and was fished nearly to extinction. There are a few medical uses with the substance found in a gland in this creature. The Kitsurin government regulates these waters carefully. It can be traced.”

“Will there be any permanent damage?” Redaku asked. He seemed to be holding his breath.

The small man shook his head. “No, advisor. The amount Kato ingested was negligible. You may have noticed a reduced reaction time, maybe minor issues with his coordination, maybe nothing unless you were looking for it. With a little more of the toxin, he might have appeared drunk.”

“So why is my son still unconscious?” Miyazaki asked, annoyance entering his tone.

“The sedative reacted with the toxin, Father King. It was the equivalent of giving Prince Kato double the amount of sedative. We are lucky it did not kill him," the little man said, sighing while his shoulders twitched. “By early morning, the sedative had metabolized and left his system, leaving only the toxin. During his bath, it must have moved through his body quickly. It moves faster when the heart rate and blood pressure increase. We've given him the antidote. He should wake soon.”

"How is it administered?” Noberu grunted. He was getting pissed off. He needed to take even more precautions. He was already running through the kid's schedule over the past two days in his head. If it was consumed, all of the food tasters would need to be tested. If it was absorbed or airborne, he shuddered to think of all of the changes needed.

The doctor frowned. "It can be absorbed through the skin or consumed. There is no test for that. It has no smell and is tasteless. It works much slower being absorbed through the skin. If it was absorbed, he could have been contaminated twenty-four hours before the sedative was used. It depends on how much a person weighs, how fast the metabolism, increased blood pressure or heart rate will activate it and it will move much faster through the body after activated. If it is consumed, symptoms can be observed hours afterward.” He looked around to each man. He was beginning to wrinkle the edges of the file, kneading it.

"Why use such a small amount?” Noberu asked softly, as if talking to himself. He looked down at the Doctor who swiveled in the chair to face him. “What is this toxin used for if not to kill?" Noberu could feel his eyes narrow. He thought he knew where this was going and hoped he was wrong because it made even less sense.

"In large doses, it does kill," the man said. He grimaced and said quickly, "With the right dose it can make a person appear drunk. It can lead to unconsciousness. There is memory loss..."

"You've already said that,” Redaku snapped. The smaller man turned slightly to look at the advisor. “What aren't you saying?" The good doctor paled. He seemed unwilling to answer. He looked at his file as if to open it.

"I believe the good doctor is saying it's used for rape," Noberu's tone was flat, matching his bleak look. Redaku gasped and jerked to stare at Noberu, his mouth gaping. The small man nodded, obviously relieved someone else said it. His hands were trembling.

"I expect all of you to be discrete. The public has already been given an explanation, nothing more needs to be said. You are dismissed Dr. Bankuson." Miyazaki said coldly.

The doctor appeared relieved and rushed to exit the room. They waited until the door closed. Noberu remained standing.

Turning to Noberu, Miyazaki stood. "This is unacceptable."

"I understand. It won't happen again, but I expect complete cooperation."

"And you aren't getting that now?” Miyazaki huffed. “What more do you want?”

"I'm changing the guard. I know several were chosen from your own guard, but they have not acted in the Prince Kato's best interest. I will remove them and replace them with men I trust,” Noberu said glancing briefly at Redaku.

Miyazaki frowned. He looked to Redaku apparently expecting an explanation. The man's advisor looked at his hands resting on the table in front of him. Miyazaki raised his left eyebrow. "I see – what has happened?”

"Your men allowed Prince Shinko into Prince Kato's room overnight without my consent or permission. I will not tolerate this. I make the decisions regarding Prince Kato's safety.” Noberu said clearly, glancing at the advisor.

Redaku looked embarrassed. He said nothing and wouldn't meet Miyazaki's cold gray eyes. Perhaps allowing Shinko access to the kid's room wasn't at Miyazaki's order after all. Now he trusted the older man even less. Maybe the kid wouldn't miss the man for long?

"Do what you need to do to keep my son safe. He is a target until several children are born. You have my cooperation – for now," the man added. He seemed to be saying something more. Noberu understood. The man would cooperate as long as he needed to. He would put his faith into Noberu out of necessity: They had a common goal. Miyazaki looked down at his friend and advisor sadly. “I've read your file Mr. Haitatsu,” he said keeping sad eyes on Redaku. “Kato is in good hands,” he said softly.

Redaku made a weird muffled sound. He was rubbing his temples again, staring at the floor.

Noberu was annoyed. The man just didn't know when to stop. Before he could help himself he growled, "Do you have something to add?”

Redaku shook his head. He still wouldn't meet his oldest friend's eyes.

“I want to be contacted when my son wakes. I expect information to be shared between us,” said Miyazaki, as if in warning. Noberu nodded looking at Redaku. The screen abruptly went to static. Noberu walked across the room and shut it off.

“Do you realize just how dangerous it was letting Shinko into the kid's room now?” Noberu struggled to keep the anger from coloring his voice and filling his face. He wanted to release his anger somewhere and the man had earned it. The man jerked away but he didn't say anything. “You were lucky, he just wanted to fuck the kid.”

The older man shuddered. “You don't understand,” he whispered in a small voice.

Noberu sighed. He needed to change tactics. “I won't if you don't explain it,” Noberu agreed, sitting across from the advisor and watched him flinch. “I know you love him. Why did you do this? Did the kid ask you to?”

“Kato is not a whore!”

Noberu simply looked at the man. He waited until the older man's cheeks turned crimson. Hypocritical bastard! That is exactly what he was counting on when he let Shinko into the kid's room. He waited long enough for the silence to become uncomfortable before he said quietly, “The kid is a hormonal teenager with needs.” Noberu had to shake his head to shake the image of Kato's heated cheeks, his head thrown back as his seed pulsed into the churning water. “He does seem to like Shinko,” Noberu forced the words out, shrugging. He didn't want to admit it. He personally didn't care for the man. Shinko was a whore. “Shinko wouldn't need to use a rape drug, would he?” Noberu's tone was flat. He wasn't expecting an answer.

Redaku seemed to shrink into himself. He rested his elbows on his knees and leaned forward. His stringy dark hair hung limply. He eased his hands through it, kneading his forehead. “He promised to protect Kato, his interests. Kato doesn't deserve to be just a wife. I think his spirit would whither...if he just made babies,” the older man said quietly talking to the floor now.

Noberu suddenly had a thought that made his stomach queasy. “Is that the only time you're expected to let him see Kato without my presence?”

Redaku closed his eyes, his face wrinkling. “I'm so stupid,” he said, covering his face with his hands. Noberu grunted his agreement. Fear can make a lot of decisions for a man. They were always bad ones.

---

Author's Notes: This is the Prince For Peace. Got to the forum at http://www2.adult-fanfiction.org/forum/index.php?showtopic=16179 for notes. Thank you for your patience.