Marron: *pads down the spiral stairs, rubbing at tired eyes, having been unable to fall asleep easily the night before*

Naruto: *appears in the entrance, near the desk and drops down on his back, unconscious*

Rion: *appears in the kitchen and looks about* Hmmm....well this came at a bad time. *sighs* I'll never be able to explain this to Pat.

Marron: *blinks at the sound of the body hitting the floor* Oh! *lightly pads over to crouch next to the still form*

Naruto: *appears to be dirty, but otherwise just unconscious*

Luel: *rushes into the kitchen, having just appeared outside it and heads straight for the sink, clutching his hand to his chest* Oh.. oh god, this hurts.... *fumbles with the cold water faucet*

Marron: *uses one hand to shove his long hair out of his face the other gently running over Naruto's skull carefully checking for a wound*

Rion: *blinks as Luel rushes in* Uhhhh, are you all right?

Naruto: *his head is fine, save a slight bump from hitting the ground at the Inne, which quickly disappears beneath Marron's touch*

Luel: *lets out a relieved sound as he gets the water running and moves his hand under the stream* Ahhh... well, now I will be... just a small burn.. nothing terribly serious.

Rion: *blinks* Right.

Marron: *frowns, puzzled, keeping his voice soft* Naruto?

Naruto: *makes no move to wake up*

Rion: No offense...but how the hell did you get burned?

Marron: *gives the other boy's shoulder a small shake* Naruto?

Naruto: *doesn't move for several moments until his eyes open and he sits up quickly* Huh? What? QueenBiggyChubbs: Hikaru: *fazes in his bed in his room, sleeping*

Marron: *places a restraining hand on Naruto's chest when he moves* You dropped in, you were unconscious. Are you alright?

Naruto: *relaxes a bit* Yeah...Yeah, I'm okay...*sighs* Stupid frog. Abyssinian56: Kou: *is launched from a portal in the garden outside the kitchen, flying past the window and landing with a loud thud before rolling several feet* Waaah!!

Luel: *looks up and blinks* Oh... well, I was being careless... I left one of my bunsen burners going, and completely forgot about it until I reached over for my book, and, well... *looks down at his hand and frowns a bit*

Marron: *puzzled* Frog?

Naruto: Yeah...damnit, I was so close to getting him to listen to me!

Rion: *looks down as well* Nasty burn? Abyssinian56: Kou: *lies there for several minutes before attempting to get up*

Marron: *skeptical* Mmmmhmmm... Alright then.

Naruto: *smiles a bit* I can show you...just not with Gama-Bunta, cause he'd kill me if I summoned him and didn't really need him.

Marron: *shakes his head, standing back up* Unneccessary.

Naruto: Oh...okay. You wouldn't happen to know how long I've been out, would you?

Luel: *opens his hand a bit so Rion can see, eyeing the angry, swelling red mark on his palm* Most likely... my own fault, though, I should really have been more careful...

Colbey: *streches from his position leaning against the building offering a hand to Kougaiji* Rough landing there, son.

Marron: No, you haven't been here long though... so I'm not truly sure.

Rion: *takes Luel's palm in his own* You should be more attentive. *gently traces the burn* Abyssinian56: Kou: *smirks and accepts the hand* I really wasn't expecting that. *gets up and brushes himself off* Thank you.

Naruto: Man, it would be bad if it was a long time...I don't want to miss my fight.

Colbey: No problem. Happens to most around here I'm afraid.

Marron: I'm sure everything will be fine.

Naruto: Well, not if I missed it. *gets up, dusting himself off* If I miss it, I can't be a Chuunin. Abyssinian56: Kou: *chuckles* At least I'm away from her for the time being.. *sighs*

Marron: I guess you won't know until you go home, then.

Colbey: *nods sagely* Enjoy your moments of respite then.

Naruto: I guess not...*sighs and keeps dusting himself off*

Luel: *hisses very softly at the gentle touch, a light flush on his cheeks as he pulls his hand back slowly* I should... I'm very easily distracted... when I'm working, I mean. Abyssinian56: Kou: *nods and smiles* Indeed. I think I may go to the library again.

Rion: *smiles at Luel* So it would seem. What were you working on?

Marron: No use inviting trouble, you should hope for the best. *looks about trying to get his bearings*

Colbey: A wise choice. It is a fine library we have, depending on the texts you read.

Naruto: Nah, it's not really trouble...*laughs a bit* Of course I could always lose...*sighs* But I hope not. For Hinata's sake. Abyssinian56: Kou: I was looking around last time and there is quite a selection. I'm looking for spellbooks in particular.

Luel: Just an experimental formula I'd discovered some years back and haven't looked at since... really nothing of importance... *glances around the room, looking for something to wrap his hand with*

Marron: I'm sure everything will go well for you.

Colbey: I'm not much for magic. Though there are others around here who are.

Naruto: I hope so...if it doesn't the examiner will let him kill me. Abyssinian56: Kou: I see. *nods and puts a finger to his lips in thought* I need to undo a sealing spell..

Marron: *shrugs* No need inviting trouble. *reaches a conclusion and starts down the hall towards the kitchen*

Colbey: I'm sure there's plenty of texts there that shall give you some idea.

Rion: Hold on, I'll look for a first aid kit.

Naruto: *blinks, confused and sighs a bit and sits down against a wall in the hall*

Luel: Oh, that's not necessary... I can find one on my own... *smiles a bit and starts searching cupboards in the room* Abyssinian56: Kou: I certainly hope so. *nods to Colbey* I'll be off then, thanks again. *turns and enters the Inne and makes his way to the library*

Rion: It's no trouble. *looks himself*

Marron: *glances over his shoulder* Giving up doesn't help either... here you are, and nothing at home is going to change while you're gone, what shall be, shall be... *frowns a little* Even I have had the pleasure of learning that.

Naruto: I'm not giving up, I'm just thinking...

Rion: *sighs and closes yet another cabinet* Hmmm, this is taking too long. *starts 'searching' by running his hand along the closed doors and scanning*

Luel: *tilts his head to the side a bit, curious as to what the young man is doing, but says nothing, continuing to look on his own*

Rion: *smiles when he gets an image of what he's looking for and kneels, pulling the kit out from under the sink* Here we are.

Marron: *looks seriously* As you will. *nods and starts back down the hall*

Naruto: *sighs and stares at the ceiling*

Luel: *reaches out to take the kit, setting it down on the counter and smiles a bit to Rion* Thank you... pardon me, but what exactly were you doing just now? *opens the kit and rummages a moment before pulling out some gauze*

Marron: *quietly slips into the kitchen, neatly avoiding the pale form floating out of it*

Rion: Looking for the kit.

Naruto: Ugh, what's wrong with me. *smacks himself on the forehead and gets up, grinning* That's better.

Luel: *chuckles softly as he begins wrapping his hand, his eyes fixed on his task* Yes, I'd assumed... but how? I sensed no magic of any sort... *looks up as Marron glides by, but says nothing*

Rion: I'm psychic

Marron: *shyly skirts around Luel and Rion towards the cupboards that he's learned hold the tea selection*

Luel: *nods a little, lips forming a silent 'oh' as he finishes dressing the burn and closes the kit, his eyes following Marron*

Rion: *looks over his shoulder* Being shy again, Marron?

Naruto: Hmm...what should I do...*smiles a bit, thinking*

Marron: *gets down a box of tea, holding it close and not quite looking up at Rion and the stranger* Maybe a little bit. *softly*

Luel: *softly, as he bends to put the medkit away again* I know the feeling... I'm not exactly very social, myself...

Rion: *shakes his head* So many shy ones in one place.

Naruto: Huh. *taps his head and walks upstairs, heading into the Patron's gallery, looking for something fun to do*

Marron: *quietly sets about making some tea* It can't be helped I suppose. Abyssinian56: Kou: *poofs*

Luel: I suppose not.. *smiles a little as he rises once more*

Rion: It's not a complaint. I like shy.

Luel: *flushes a bit and clears his throat politely* Yes... I... seem to recall...

Marron: *remembers Rion attaching himself to Kenshin and smiles a little, waiting for the water to heat up*

Naruto: *grins, remembering that people can live in these pictures, goes to Xanth's and tries to turn it up-side down*

**loud, booming voice echoes in the Patron's gallery, sounding very menacing* Hands off the merchandise!

Naruto: *calls out* Why?

Luel: *softly, as he starts moving for the door* I.. suppose I'll be off, then...

Rion: Going so soon?

Xanth's portrait: *tsks impatiently* Because, Naruto, this is *very* undignified.

Naruto: *giggles* So? *tilts the picture*

Luel: *pauses a moment* Oh... well, I've little other reason to stay here, and there's a myriad of things in this place I've been wanting to study in a bit more detail...

Rion: Exploring then?

Marron: *makes his tea and with the same stealth that he entered the kitchen with, slinks for the connecting door to the dining room*

Xanth: *appears behind Naruto and grabs him by the scruff, lifting him off the ground a little* So, displacing people isn't very nice, you know. *chuckles*

Luel: *shrugs one shoulder, watching Marron as he steals from the room* I suppose you could call it that...

Naruto: Awww, fine. *pouts a bit and fixes the picture* What's the worst that could happen? The blood would rush to your head?

Rion: *stands* Why don't I accompany you?

Marron: *curls up in one of the dining room chairs, sipping from the cup and setting it down on the table in front of him*

Xanth: *sets the young man back down and chuckles again* It's the principle of the thing, young man. It simply isn't polite to turn others upside down.

Naruto: *grins* Well you should know I'm not polite.

Luel: *looks down at his hands* Well... I suppose that's alright... though I'm not very interesting company.

Rion: *stands* I'm sure you'll do fine. *tips up Luel's chin* I'd like to see more of this place myself.

Xanth: *raises an eyebrow* Hmph.. and learning is impossible, then? I suppose manners aren't for everyone, but really, now.

Naruto: *sighs a bit* Alright, I won't turn your picture upside down anymore.

Luel: *gives a bit of a nervous smile as his gaze is directed back up, and nods a little* If you really want to, then... *glances over at the door to the dining room again, but turns to leave the kitchen*

Xanth: *pats Naruto on the head* Now, now, don't go looking as if I just ruined whatever fun you were having. I know for a fact there are more interesting things to do in this place.

Naruto: Yeah, but...*sighs a bit* I guess. *puts his hands in his pockets*

Rion: *chuckles* Thinking of following him?

Xanth: *looks down at Naruto, canting his head to the side a bit* But? Don't say something like that and fail to finish the sentence... you'll leave me in suspense.

Naruto: *gives him a bright, fake smile* Nah, it's really nothing. I'll go find something to do!

Luel: *gives a shy smile* Yes and no... I was just a little curious about him... he radiates an energy unlike I've ever felt before, that's all...

Rion: *tilts his head* Go on then. He's not going to come to you after all.

Xanth: *raises an eyebrow, obviously able to see through the feigned exterior* If you've really no interest to, feel free to mope about. You won't be the first one to do so.

Naruto: *shakes his head* Nuh uh...I don't mope..cause that's bad.

Luel: *shakes his head* Oh, no, I'm not about to bother someone like that... besides, with the way he was behaving, he really isn't wanting company.

Xanth: Angst, pout, sulk, sit in contemplation of the beautiful mystery of deep, human sorrow? Any of those sound appealing, then?

Naruto: *giggles* Nope...I try not to do those things.

Xanth: Even though you might be tempted to?

Rion: He's just shy...and trust me. He's a calm sort, he won't bite your head off.

Kenshin: *slips silently from his room, walking quietly for the stairs, and heading down with the intent of heading outside*

Naruto: *nods* Right! *smiles* Promised I wouldn't.

Shane: *fades into existance in the library, looking around and smiling a little* Good timing.... *heads for a bookcase*

Luel: Well.. I suppose it wouldn't hurt... but really, I've no reason to bother him. Besides, I don't know of many people who enjoy being bombarded with silly questions.

Hawk: *lands rather harshly across the front desk, the curse on his lips unable to form as the wind is knocked clean from him*

Xanth: *smiles a bit* Suit yourself, then. If it ever tempts you, though, there's many a place in here suited for long periods of wallowing in misery.

Rion: Just go say hello.

Naruto: Nah...you know, I don't need it...I used to do it all the time, but I got tired of it.

Kenshin: *comes down just as Hawk is dropped, hurrying over to the other man* Are you all right?

Luel: *looks at Rion and blinks, then slowly starts walking towards the dining room, pushing open one of the swinging doors and peeking in quietly*

Hawk: *slides from the desk and onto his feet, sucking in a hard breath* ...fine...I.. think...

Rion: *smiles in encouragement* /Good luck/

Kenshin: Just the wind knocked out of you then? *smiles a bit* This one is grateful for that...

Xanth: You got tired of it... and someone made you promise not to. Fairly convenient, I'd say.

Marron: *is still curled in the chair, fingers still loosely wrapped around the cup*

Shane: *finds a book among many and then finds a place to curl up and read*

Hawk: *rubs his chest, nodding* This one is too... for all my shodding luck with landings....

Naruto: *giggles* No...I just promised to myself. No one to promise to besides me.

Kenshin: It seems to plague some of those here...this one among them. *bows politely* Himura Kenshin. *straightens* And you are?

Luel: *looks up at Rion after hearing the voice in his head and blinks* ... thank you... I suppose. *smiles a little and moves into the dining room, approaching Marron hesitantly* E-excuse me...

Rion: *heads out of the kitchen, trying to decide what to do with himself*

Hawk: *smiles and nods* A pleasure to meet you. My name's Hawk.

Marron: *looks up at the soft voice* Yes? *smiles quite shyly*

Kenshin: *smiles back* A pleasure to meet you. I hope you won't think this one rude, but he was on his way outside and merely wished to make sure you were all right...

Hawk: *waves dismissively* Trust me, lad, I've seen much worse in the line of duty. Go on with you.

Kenshin: *Bows again* Thank you. *heads off and outside*

Rion: *does his mind scan again, and instantly recognizes the odd spark of innocence tinged with darkness he knows is Kenshin* [Perfect]

Kenshin: *not quite sure what he's looking for, picks a direction and begins to walk*

Xanth: *shakes his head and chuckles a bit* You must trust yourself beyond all reasoning to make that kind of promise.

Hawk: *turns immediately for one of the two rooms that he knows gives him solace, choosing the library even though a drink does sound better*

Shane: *looks up as Hawk enters the library, smiling a little* Hey there.

Naruto: *grins* No one to trust but myself either...well not until I met Hika here.

Hawk: *starts at the sound of Shane's voice and smiles* Hey... *heads over to where the other man is sitting*

Luel: I... thought it would be polite to introduce myself. *returns the shy smile* My name is Luel.. Luel Reinhardt.

Rion: *makes his way out of doors and starts following Kenshin's mental trail*

Shane: *marks the book and sets it aside gently, smiling a little more*

Kenshin: *turns onto a small trail, recognizing it and headed for the lake, hoping the serene place might give him some peace*

Marron: *sits up a little* A pleasure to meet you, Luel. My name is Marron Glace.

Hawk: *leans down and claims Shane's lips in a sweet kiss*

Shane: *moans softly into the kiss, reaching up to touch Hawk's cheek*

Rion: *speeds up a bit so he can catch up to Kenshin, but tries to keep his tread light*

Kenshin: *pauses along the way to adjust the sakabatou's weight slightly before starting off again*

Hawk: *breaks the kiss to lean his head into Shane's touch* Missed me, love?

Shane: *nods* Very much.... *shifts to make room for Hawk* Sit with me? *quietly*

Xanth: Sounds like a fairly lonely existance, young man... if you ever need a reason behind the fact that you're here, that would be it.

Rion: *starts to hover slightly as he gets within visual range*

Naruto: Nah, it's pretty much the same here...except for Hika.

Kenshin: *doesn't stop walking again until he reaches the lake, where he pauses at the end of the trail and lets his eyes take in the scenery*

Luel: *gestures to the chair beside Marron* Would you... mind terribly if I joined you?

Hawk: *slides into the seat next to Shane* Anything you want...

Xanth: It doesn't have to be that way, you know. There are plenty of beings about this place worth trusting.

Rion: *slows to a stop and ducks behind a tree to observe the samarai, doing his best to mask his thoughts*

Marron: *shakes his head slightly* Not at all... please do...

Shane: *cuddles up against Hawk, wrapping his arms around the other man's waist and laying his head on his shoulder*

Naruto: Well, I don't know...I'm like I usually am, or I ask them something serious like, and no one really sticks around...

Kenshin: *walks forward a bit, until the sounds of his steps is lost in the small expanse of sand at the edge of the lake and then he's perfectly still, letting his thoughts drift*

Hawk: *moves a little stiffly to wrap his arms around his lover, nuzzling the soft hair* Nice...

Shane: *smiles a little* You okay? *softly*

Rion: *watches the samarai with a guilty sort of pleasure, fascinated again by the odd mix of beauty, power, and innocence*

Hawk: *nods against the soft hair* Mmmhmm...just a little stiff... you know they've got a lovely firm front desk here...

Kenshin: *after a moment, walks back to the grass, and draws his sakabatou, movements coming instinctively as he begins running through various katas*

Shane: *chuckles very softly* Got an up close and personal meeting with it, huh?

Rion: *continues to observe the samarai, in awe of the grace and beauty of the katas*

Hawk: *smiles* Yeah, most definitely did.

Kenshin: *continues to move, but speaks quietly* You can come out....this one knows that someone is there, that he does....

Shane: *cuddles a little closer* How have things been back home?

Rion: *blinks, but does so* And here I thought I was hiding my thoughts well.

Hawk: It's Haven, Shane, you shouldn't even have to ask.

Kenshin: This one cannot read minds.....he merely sensed your presense.... *not breaking the rhythm of his movements*

Shane: *nods* Sorry...

Rion: Ahh, I see. Impressive. *the word seems to apply to several things*

Kenshin: *ceases the movements as fluidly as he began them, sheathing the sword* Not particularly.

Luel: *smiles a bit and takes the seat* Thank you... *pauses, social ineptitude robbing him of a way to start suitable conversation*

Rion: You're far to modest

Xanth: Perhaps you should ask your questions differently, then. Sometimes, if prodded correctly, you'll be given an adequate reponse. *gives a half-smile*

Kenshin: Perhaps.

Hawk: *hugs the other man tightly* Don't apologize... it's dangerous and it's lonely, and I don't really want to keep going on, but I do.

Rion: *walks closer, still smiling* You are.

Shane: *softly* I'm glad you do....I'd miss you terribly.

Naruto: Yeah maybe...but...I just wanted to know...kay, this guy said people who cause suffering should die. So I asked if people cause suffering, but aren't at fault, should they die?

Marron: *smiles sweetly* It's nothing... people are supposed to make themselves at home here.

Kenshin: Why did you follow this one and attempt to mask it?

Hawk: The people who keep me going are very few in number, and I'm holding one of them in my arms right now.

Rion: I wanted to look at you a while, but you're so shy. I doubted you'd sit still for my scrutiny.

Shane: *smiles a little* I'm glad for that... *the arms around Hawk tighten just a little*

Kenshin: Why would you wish to scrutinize this one?

Hawk: *softly* I need you like I need air in my lungs, Shane.

Shane: And I need you every bit as much.... *whispered*

Xanth: *ponders on that a moment* That's a very interesting question... one that would give even me trouble answering. *looks down at Naruto* What was the response you were given?

Naruto: They said they couldn't answer...and left.

Luel: *chuckles softly* So I've heard... but, then again, I've been chased out of doing so, so that leaves me a little perplexed.

Hawk: *kisses the top of Shane's head* I won't let the streets beat me, not as long as I have you to come back to.

Shane: *smiles and closes his eyes at that kiss, falling silent in his lover's arms*

Marron: *puzzled* How so?

Hawk: *cuddles Shane close for a moment* And how are things with you?

Shane: ....The Bureau wants to reactivate me to full duty again.....

Rion: *pauses* I....I'm not sure. I just seem drawn to you somehow.

Kenshin: *Smiles gently* This one is not very interesting....

Hawk: *softly* And what did you tell them?

Rion: I think you're fascinating

Shane: I...I didn't give them an answer....but I'm not sure they're going to give me a choice....

Kenshin: *blushes at that*

Xanth: *smiles* Well, considering the answer is very circumstancial, I'll not be able to answer you either, Naruto.... but I'm not about to dissapear, if that's any consollation.

Naruto: How come it's circumstatial? Tell me what you need to know to answer that?

Hawk: *frowns and tightens his arms around his lover* There's always a choice... but what do you want to do Shane... what is it that full duty is going to call you to do?

Luel: Oh.. well, I was informed that my usual pastimes were dull, so I might find different forms of entertainment... *fights back a fierce blush at the memory* ... so I'm not too sure about 'making myself at home' anymore.

Shane: *softly* It'll be the same kind of stuff I used to do all those years ago, Rupert....Getting shipped all over the world in order to deal with alien contact with Earth....I'll lose the life I have now, such as it is.....be assigned to a new team.... *sighs* And no, if they decide they need me back, I really *won't* have a choice in it....they can be...persuasive when they want to be.

Rion: *smiles at the blush* And those adorable blushes have quite the appeal as well

Kenshin: *chuckles very softly and turns to stare out over the lake again*

Rion: *moves within a hair of Kenshin's back, close enough to feel his body heat* It's lovely

Kenshin: *nods* Very peaceful..... *Softly*

Rion: You're lovely

Kenshin: *blushes softly* Perhaps your sight misleads you.....

Rion: My eyes work just fine. *chuckles* Better than most in fact.

Kenshin: Then you must be mistaken. This one is not so attractive.

Hawk: *frowns* Always a choice... sometimes it's not a pretty one, but if you don't want to go back, don't let them force you...

Shane: *softly* What other choice do I have, Rupert?

Xanth: I'd need to know exactly how this person was causing others so suffer.. and also the reasons they weren't at fault. Unless given specifics, I can see how this question would give others difficulty..

Rion: Beauty is in the eye of the beholder, and I say you're lovely to behold

Kenshin: *nods, unable to argue with that bit of logic*

Naruto: Well...people suffered because a lot of loved ones died. And this person...being there, causes suffering. But they didn't actually kill the people...something else did...

Marron: *tilts his head aside* What's wrong with making yourself at home... there's no one else around righ now.

Hawk: Run... I ran away from the Forest Kingdom you can run from the Bureau.

Shane: ....maybe....I-I just don't know where I'd go.....they have eyes and ears everywhere.... *breath hitches softly* They've got me so fucking paranoid I can't think.....

Rion: *brushes his lips against Kenshin's cheek* Have you considered my offer?

Kenshin: *gasps softly* You are...very persistent.....

Rion: What can I say...I'm stubborn.

Kenshin: So you are.... *softly* This one has pondered your offer....

Rion: *smiles* And?

Hawk: Shhsh... *rocks the other man gently, shifting to feather his lips over Shane's cheek* You're here with me, all the time in the world to think now...

Kenshin: This one is still uncertain..... *softly* ...and yet....he does not understand his hesitance....

Rion; *moves lips close to Kenshin's breath whispering across them* Then you're willing to give it a chance?

Shane: *arms around Hawk tighten again* I've....I've seen them do this to people, Rupert....they cut you off from everything until you really don't have any choices....They want me back because I have experience.....

Kenshin: *sucks in a tiny breath of his own* This one.....would like to....

Xanth: *frowns a little* Then, if the suffering was not caused directly by this person, why should he be put to death? Curious, though, how you mention his presence causes suffering.. how is that so?

Rion: Good. *completes the kiss, lips settling against Kenshin's with gentle but insistent pressure*

Kenshin: *gasps, a soft sound in his throat as he hesitantly returns the kiss*

Hawk: *nuzzles, voice drops to a soft level* Shhssh... no matter what they do remember no matter what they do I'll always be here.

Naruto: Well...uh...it's kind of complicated...because...this thing that killed people...exists inside him.

Shane: *clings to Hawk suddenly, sobbing softly, the stress evident from the tenseness in the blonde*

Rion: *murmurs his approval and carefully wraps Kenshin in his arms*

Kenshin: *after a moment, wraps his arms around the blonde tentatively*

Hawk: *growls softly wishing there was some other way to protect his lover* I love you... I won't ever leave you... no matter what happens back home... you'll come back here...

Shane: *whispered through his tears* As long as I have you.....as long as I don't lose everything.....God, I need you.... *sobs harder*

Luel: *chuckles softly yet again* True enough... I doubt you would have any objections to my demeanor. I suppose I'm not... enthusiastic... enough for some.

Hawk: *runs a hand through the soft locks* Never, ever gonna lose me... I'm yours totally and completely.

Shane: *calms considerably at that touch, his sobbing losing some of its almost frantic intensity*

Marron: *smiles* No I have enough enthusiastic behavior from Carrot and the rest back home.

Rion: *breaks the kiss a long moment later, and massages Kenshin's back* Very nice.

Kenshin: *gasps softly as the touch wanders over the still relatively new scar on his back*

Hawk: *continues to run his fingers through Shane hair, murmuring softly* No matter what happens... no matter what you do... I am yours, anything I can do for you consider it done...

Shane: This is what I need right now...Just...just to know I'm not going to lose you too.....I'll go crazy....I'll fucking lose my mind if I lose you.... *whispers*

Xanth: *shakes his head a bit and softens his voice* But they are not one and the same... the one who others would hate, and kill holds no responsability for what happened.

Hawk: *hugs Shane almost unbearably tight* It's yours, love. I'm yours... I'll never leave... Haven can't beat me... the Bureau can't beat you... we're together, we're gonna stay that way.

Naruto: I guess...I mean...I know they're not the same...but to kill this person would heal so many. Isn't it worth it?

Shane: *sobs all over again, clinging to Hawk just as tightly* Thank you.....

Hawk: *closes his eye, aching at his lover's pain* Don't thank me for this... this is yours without asking, I'm yours.

Luel: I understand you completely... it is rare when I can enjoy an uninterrupted moment of silence..

Marron: I'm not used to it... *yawns softly* It was too quiet... *looks at his cup, frowning* I was lonely...

Rion: Was that a good pain or a bad pain?

Xanth: How would it heal them? To know that retribution had been given to them for the loss of those they loved?

Naruto: *nods* Yeah...

Shane: I know....I'm sorry, Rupert....I'm not usually like this, but god....

Kenshin: *softly* It was just...sensitive....

Rion: Then good? *caresses the are again gently*

Kenshin: *moans softly* Yes.....

Luel: *spoken very softly, barely above a whisper* I'm glad I came back, then...

Marron: *blushes a little but smiles at Luel* I'm sorry you haven't met nice people here then...

Xanth: And what of the person who has been set as an outlet for their grief? They would believe him at fault, though it is plain to see he is not?

Rion: *purrs* Good. *continues to tease the scar as he latches onto Kenshin's throat*

Kenshin: *gasps, shivering at the touches as a soft moan rises in his throat*

Naruto: Yeah, I mean...this person's...existance causes everyone suffering because of this...thing...even though he's not at fault...everyone believes he's at fault...but he's really suffering too.

Hawk: *purrs* It's okay... don't apologize either... we all have rough patches...

Luel: *looks up at Marron* Oh... I.. have... just not many. And I'm sure that the others are nice people as well... just... not my type of nice.

Shane: *looks up and smiles a little* It's been a rough week....

Marron: *looks confused* There are different types of nice? Everyone has seemed quite nice to me... that one boy was too friendly but still...

Hawk: *kisses Shane's forehead* I'm sure it has... time for you to relax now.

Shane: *nods and smiles a little more* Yeah....

Rion: *gives Kenshin's butt a small grope as he gives the samarai's shoulder a playful nip*

Xanth: *walks over, putting his hands on Naruto's shoulders* Well, he isn't... he didn't ask to be given this burden, but he bears it now, and he is very strong to have endured it for so long.

Kenshin: *gasps sharply at the nip to his shoulder, pulling away with a soft, almost frightened sound*

Naruto: I guess...*hangs his head a bit*

Luel: *feels his cheeks redden considerably* Too friendly.. that puts it much better than I did... but I'm sure others would appreciate that... quality? Can something like that be considered a quality?

Hawk: *smiles* Good then... *hugs his lover*

Rion: *lets Kenshin move away, some of the lust fading from his eyes* Kenshin?

Shane: *hugs Hawk back tightly, sighing softly and smiling*

Marron: Oh? Did Naruto glomp onto you too? I'm sure there are others who don't mind that sort of thing.

Kenshin: G-Gomen ne..... *getting a grip on his composure again*

Hawk: *cups Shane's cheek and gives him another gentle kiss*

Rion: *shakes his head* No, I should be the one to apologize. I shouldn't have pushed so far so fast.

Shane: *relaxes at the touch, returning the kiss with a soft moan as a hand comes to slip into Hawk's hair*

Kenshin: *Shakes head* It's not that...gomen ne.....

Rion: Then what?

Hawk: *purrs softly, keeping their lips pressed together, rubbing the pad of his thumb over the warm skin*

Kenshin: *shifts his jacket to the side, baring the shoulder Rion had nipped, revealing another set of relatively new scars, these fitting the pattern of a human bitemark*

Shane: *purrs back just as softly, pressing closer to his lover*

Rion: *gasps at the brutal marks, marks that clearly meant for harm not pleasure* Who did this?

Hawk: *runs a hand down to rub at the small of Shane's back, lapping his tongue against the soft lips*

Kenshin: A maniac named Makoto Shishio. *calmly, pulling the fabric back to hide the mark* My newest scars are almost consistently his doing....

Shane: *parts his lips more than willingly at the gentle attention, muscles in his back relaxing at Hawk's touch*

Hawk: *cautiously dips his tongue inside the moist cavern, exploring slowly, continuing to gently massage Shane's back*

Shane: *moans, tongue sliding along its like, relaxing even further*

Rion: Is he here? *eyes seem to glitter dangerously*

Kenshin: *Shakes head* No....he's dead.

Hawk: *sighs softly, letting his tongue twine with Shane's, trying his best to let the other man relax*

Shane: *shifts slightly until he's straddling Hawk's lap, wrapping his arms around the other man more firmly and hugging him close*

Rion: *nods* Good. *gently kisses the bite marks* You shouldn't bear such ugly scars

Xanth: *softly* I wish I could give you a suitable answer, Naruto... but I'm afraid I am not the voice of those in your world... I can't show them the reasoning I just gave you.

Kenshin: *gasps very softly* There....are others.....

Rion: Others?

Luel: *tilts his head to the side* Naruto? Oh.. well, no, not him... *looks down at his hands, his words slightly mumbled* I was talking about... that young man from before, actually....

Naruto: Oh, I know...it's fair, I guess...in it's own way. *smiles a bit* Thanks though...for clearing that up.

Hawk: *can't help but chuckle as his lover moves, holding Shane tight*

Kenshin: *nods a little* It was...a rather involved battle....

Shane: *breaks the kiss gently, nuzzling at the side of Hawk's neck*

Marron: *blinks* Rion? But he was the one who was so nice to me... he got me away from that energetic young man and introduced me to such nice people...

Rion: Hmm...well maybe I can sooth the scars

Hawk: *turns his head away to encourage the attention* This always feels so good...

Shane: *smiles* Anything to make you happy.... *whispered*

Kenshin: *softly* Perhaps...

Hawk: *smooths his hands down Shane's back* I want you to be happy too... I need you to be happy too.

Xanth: *smiles, giving Naruto's shoulders a little squeeze* You're welcome... it's why this room is avaliable to the guests... and we *don't* run away if we're called upon for good reason.

Naruto: *smiles a bit* But I didn't call you for a good reason.

Shane: *purrs softly* You make me happy, Rupert...

Luel: *blinks* Oh... well... as I said, I'm sure he's very nice... I'm glad to hear that he really *is*...

Hawk: I just want to be sure... *rests his hands on Shane's hips and smiles up at him*

Marron: *frowns* What's wrong? Did Rion hurt you? I'm sure he didn't mean to.

Xanth: *laughs* No, I suppose you didn't... but, it's all forgotten... though don't take that as me giving you permission to turn my painting upside down. *gives Naruto a very light thwap upside the head and smiles*

Naruto: *smiles a bit and laughs* Yeah...I just feel kinda weird today.

Luel: *shakes his head* No.. he didn't hurt me.. I was just... *looks down at his hands once more, tugging a bit on the sleeve of his long coat* ...unprepared for his... enthusiasm...

Marron: *gently lays a hand over Luel's* What happened?

Luel: *laughs self-conciously* Oh... I'm overreacting, I know I am... but, well... he made.. advances toward me... *ducks his head behind the locks of blonde hair that remain unbound to hide his flushed cheeks*

Xanth: *chuckles* More's the better when you've been brought here, I'd say..

Naruto: Yeah? I don't know about that...just worried I guess about losing to Neiji...cause he'd kill me.

Marron: *shivers* Oh... I never thought Rion would do that... that's wrong for anyone to do... it's wrong for people to force themselves on you... *shivers again*

Xanth: *nods* A cause for anyone to be concerned... but I have faith in you, young one. *looks down at him and gives an encouraging smile*

Naruto: *smiles* Thanks.

Luel: *looks over at the mage, noting the slight tremors* Are... you alright, Marron?

Marron: *draws his hand back to his own lap, blinking* I'm fine... of course I'm fine.

Xanth: Quite welcome... believe in yourself, too, young man, you're stronger than you realize.

Luel: *very much unconvinced, but does not inquire further, and nods* A-alright.. if you're certain...

Naruto: *blushes and grins* Thanks...I'll try.

Marron: *tries to smile up at Luel* I'm certain... nothing to worry about.

Xanth: *smiles a moment, then frowns a little at something only he can hear* Well... as much as I hate to do this now, I'm afraid I must be going... domestic summons, and all... *pats Naruto on the head once more*

Naruto: Oh, okay. *smiles a bit*

Xanth: Come by again if you need anything... *gives Naruto a last warm smile before he blinks out, a shimmer of silver dust the only trace of his presence*

Naruto: *nods and slips his hands in his pockets as he leaves the room*

Luel: *softly* The look on your face tells me otherwise... but if you say so, I believe it. *smiles gently*

Marron: *shrugs* You don't have to worry about me, Luel. It's just things at home.

Naruto: *heads up to his room and closes the door behind him, going to bed*

Luel: *nods a little* I understand... and I won't pry. *looks over at Marron and smiles a little before returning his gaze to his hands*

Marron: Thank you... You're very nice. *smiles brightly* I've met so many nice people here...

Luel: *smiles* I'm glad to hear that.. I've met a few... though I haven't talked to many... I'm not really very good at dealing with others...

Marron: Neither am I, my brother is always the one who is so noisy and getting into trouble... but I'm all by myself here... so I can't hide as much as I'd like...

Luel: Neither can I... well, I suppose I really could if I tried, but... well, it didn't work last time, so I've been inclined to try socializing... to some extent..

Marron: No harm in that... sometime you meet the most amazing people that way.

Luel: *looks up at Marron and gives him a warm smile* I suppose that's true, isn't it...

Marron: *nods* It is... I met the nicest young man last night...but he was very sad I think... and lonely too... I think a lot of people here are.

Luel: *nods slowly, silently agreeing to Marron's words*

Marron: Are you lonely too, then?

Luel: *said softly, a tinge of longing in his voice* Sometimes... I... try not to think about it... I've no reason to be lonely.. I have my brother, and there's Nell... *tone takes on a wistful tone at the girl's name*

Marron: *hears the tone* Your sweetheart? *smiles gently, even as his subconscious directs him to touch his ring to reassure himself of it's solidarity*

Luel: *blinks and blushes a bright red, ducking behind his hair once more* Oh... no... she's not... not that I don't... want that more than anything in this world...

Marron: Does she know you feel this much for her? *leans in to try to get a clear look at Luel's face*

Luel: *shakes his head a bit, not looking up quite yet* Oh, no... no, of course she doesn't... if she knew she'd.. oh, she'd not be pleased at all...

Marron: *a bit shocked* Why wouldn't she be pleased?

Luel: She hates me... I annoy her, and I never say anything right when she's around, she's always yelling at me... and besides.. she's in love with my brother.. she'd never even consider someone like me...

Marron: Oh. Oh my. I'm so sorry. I don't know what to tell you....

Luel: *quietly* It's alright.. you don't have to tell me anything.. Luka tells me enough.. says that she's a spoiled little brat and that I could do so much better... but it's fine.. as long as I can be near her...

Marron: *quite firmly* Luka is right then. If you love her so much and she is that cruel, then you should listen to him.

Luel: Oh, but she's not always so abraisive... you should see her when she's speaking to Luka.. she's always so sweet and angelic... perhaps one day... *stops and shakes his head before sighing softly*

Marron: Luel... You deserve to have someone love you, not to chase after a...a... *fishes for a word* ...two-faced strumpet... like that...

Luel: I... I suppose... but I... there's really no one else I want.. besides Nell..

Marron: *softly* Sometimes... sometimes what you want isn't what you need... You need someone who loves you... maybe you'll find that... maybe even here... odder things have happened.

Luel: *gives a soft laugh* Oh? Such as?

Marron: *looks down at his hand* Knowing that you are loved beyond measure, but never remembering by who.... *looks up with a soft smile* At least when you find love, you'll be able to remember.

Luel: *returns the smile, though half-heartedly, and looks down at Marron's hand* Oh... so... someone gave you this ring, then?

Marron: *looks sadly at the ring* Yes... Someone did... and it kills me to not be able to see his face or recall his name, just remember the ache of not knowing any longer.

Shane: *buries his face at the juncture of Hawk's neck and shoulder, permitting himself to simply take comfort in his friend awhile longer.*

Luel: I'm... sorry to hear that... I.. hope you find him again one day...

Marron: Don't be sorry... even if I never remember, I have the comfort of knowing that I had something once... something that was worth making a promise for. *turns his hand to look at the smoky stone*

Hawk: *purrs softly, turning his head to kiss Shane's temple*

Shane: *raises his head a little* I'm glad you're here.

Hawk: *softly* So am I... You needed me... there's no place else I'd rather be.

Shane: *sighs and nuzzles Hawk gently* I'll figure out something.....I have to....

Luel: *smiles gently* That's true.. you should treasure that.. *starts getting a strange feeling in his stomach, and realizes he's starting to fade* Oh.. well.. I suppose this is goodbye for now, Marron.. thanks for listeni- *poofs*

Hawk: You will... I know you will, my love. *wraps his arms around Shane's waist*

Shane: *nods and hugs Hawk closer*

Marron: *blinks his surprise as someone disappears on him again and sighs softly, getting up and returning his cup to the kitchen*

Hawk: *softly* You seem fairly drained... You want to go hide in our room for a bit?

Shane: *nods again* Haven't been sleeping....

Hawk: *nods knowingly* I have long bouts of that... C'mon, love. *cradles Shane close as he shifts to stand up*

Shane: Okay..... *softly*

Hawk: *runs a gentle hand over Shane's cheek* I give you two options... either you walk or I refuse to let you go and carry you.

Shane: *smiles a little* Were you to refuse, I could hardly stop you at this point.....

Hawk: *chuckles* That a subtle hint?

Shane: *smiles* Maybe.....

Hawk: *shifts his lover to make the job easier as he stands up keeping Shane cradled agaisnt his chest* Best make up my mind now... cuz there will be no squirming and no fuss once I get out that door.

Shane: *Smiles* Won't be either....I think I can stand to be pampered a little tonight, if I'm not going to be too much a burden to you....

Hawk: *sounds thoughtful* Well, if my back ends up hurting tomorrow what are my chances of getting a hot bath and a pair of warm hands to work on the tense muscles? *starts the trek from the library up to the guest rooms*

Shane: *smiles* I'd say the chances are pretty good.....

Hawk: *nuzzles* Good because I think I undestimated how many stairs there were... *hugs Shane close as he reaches the level their room is on*

Shane: *hugs* So we'll indulge in a nice long soak tomorrow.....I'll give you a backrub and...just maybe I can get you to return the favor....

Hawk: Hmmm... sounds like a pretty good plan to me... *pauses* Maybe you, oh, pampered one, can get the door open for me...

Shane: *reaches into his pocket, producing his key and unlocking the door, turning the knob and letting the door swing open* I think I can manage that.

Hawk: *grins as he enters the room, hooking the door with his foot, balancing carefully to nudge it shut with a satisfing click* Much obliged.

Shane: No problem. *Smiles back*

Hawk: *heads over to the bed and lays Shane down, sitting down and toeing off the worn boots before crawling up next to his lover*

Shane: *cuddles close, not really wanting to be far from Hawk for even a few moments at this point* So scared I'll wake up and find out this is a dream....

Hawk: *wraps his arms around Shane holding him tight* Not a dream... I only have nightmares... and holding you is anything but... so it's gotta be real.

Shane: *relaxes considerably with Hawk's arms around him, shifting closer* That's good....I want this to be real....I need the time to think.....and I need you....

Hawk: *murmurs softly, rubbing his love's back soothingly* It's real... I'm real... I'm yours... no more thinking tonight... you sleep... I want to wake up tomorrow with you curled up in my arms... I will be here for you.

Shane: *nods* Yeah....okay, Rupert.... *already starting to doze off in Hawk's arms*

Hawk: *continues to murmur reassurances, hands still smoothing over Shane's back waiting for sleep to claim the other man completely before daring to relax himself*

Shane: *Whispers back replies for a time, drifting off slowly* I love you..... *whispered as his slips off into slumber, his breathing becoming slow and rhythmic*

Hawk: *smiles, kissing the top of the slumbering head* ...love you too... *closes his eye and sighs, focusing on the quiet rhythm next to him before subcumbing himself*