The Trials Of Love And Life

I do not own Beyblade or any of it’s characters. Any side character belongs solely to me and will not be used by another.

Summary: Review to chapter 1.

Writing Style: Review to chapter 1.

A/N: The Second chapter was majorly long, and this one is no different, maybe longer, if I feel like it. This one will have many confrontations. Kai/Tala (again), Miguel/Max (I don’t know but I find them to be so cute as a couple), Claud/Tyson and a lot of Kai/Ray action going on. Thank you too ShinRigel for Hilary’s last name. Now, if anyone can tell me Kenny’s last name I’ll be all set.

Sorry for any spelling mistakes or errors, but I’m sure you people can deal with it... if you can’t... well... that’s sad.


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Chapter 3.


“OUCH – what was that for?” Tyson barked, glaring up at Ray’s clenched fist which had knocked him relatively hard on the head.

“You know, Tyson,” Hilary said, startling Ray to look at her. “I don’t doubt that you didn’t deserve that.”

“Shut up Hilary,” he muttered, turning back to look at Ray. “What was the fucking head injury for?”

“I didn’t hit you that hard,” Ray said, smirking while also glaring. “And, yes, Hilary is right, you did deserve that.”

“Why?” Tyson growled.

“For making me worry about professor Hiwatari so much,” Ray snapped. “You were saying he was so dangerous and blah, blah, blah...”

“He is,” Tyson interjected.

“Then why, may I ask, did he give me another chance at self defense?” Ray asked lightly, giving Tyson’s shocked face a wide smirk.

“What... how?” Tyson breathed.

“I just asked him and he said sure,” Ray said with a genuine shrug.

He knew more than just that had definitely gone down, but he wasn’t about to blurt out his whole conversation with his professor. It wasn’t like he had spoken much anyways. He had been to far lost in how good professor Hiwatari had looked he was always either stumbling over his words or just nodding his head and blushing like a little school girl.

‘School boy,’ he reminded himself. ‘School boy.’

“So Hilary, how was the rest of your day?” Ray asked, remembering how out of breath she had been.”

“It was good. Tiring, but good,” she said smiling before rounding on Tyson. “Before you even start to ask we have second class together every Tuesday and Friday, Tyson.”

Ray looked at the confused navy haired male beside him, seeing the revelation kick in as he nodded his head in understanding. Tyson went back to swirling his fork in his pasta, Hilary staring at him and then angrily telling him not to play with his food. He, in turn, picked up a rather large amount of pasta and shook it in her face.

“Mr Granger...”

Tyson froze, staring wide-eyed ahead of himself as the smooth voice flowed over him and he turned stiffly, a wide embarrassed smile plastered across his face.

“Professor Ivanov,” Tyson said, almost fearfully.

“I think you should listen to your dear friend,” the professor, in which Ray found to have the most amazing flaming red hair, said. “It is not polite to play with food.”

“I... I know sir,” Tyson mumbled. “Sorry.”

“No need to be sorry,” professor Ivanov said with a smile. “I was actually wondering if you knew where Mr Tate is?”

“He has a late class, wont be getting out for another five minutes, “ Tyson said casually, almost like talking with another student.

“No matter,” professor Ivanov said. “Just give him this term assessment sheet.”

“Alrigh–”

“Tala.”

Tyson almost screamed, and Ray was about to gasp as they both watched professor Hiwatari making his way toward the redhead. The other professor merely smile at the approaching slate-haired teacher and turned back to Tyson, watching as beads of sweat began to form along his brow line.

“Thank you, Mr Granger,” professor Ivanov said, smiling back at Tyson before heading toward Kai. “Yea, yea, I’m coming. Your so impatient sometimes.”

Ray watched with a slight blush as professor Hiwatari’s eyes caught his before he focused on the redhead with the most gentlest of smirks and rolled his eyes. The pair made their was from the cafeteria, professor Ivanov – laughing and smiling at the other professor – punched him gently in the shoulder before they disappeared through the double doors leading out into the main hallway.

“Close call,” Tyson breathed, slumping against the table.

“What do you mean?” Ray asked as Hilary stood up and bade them good-bye. “See you on Friday, Hilary.”

“Yea, see you.”

“I swear, those two professors got it in for me,” Tyson said, placing his fork full of cold pasta into his mouth. “Laz ear day shaid tha...”

“Seriously, Tyson, swallow your food,” Max sighed, shaking his head as he sat down at the table, a sandy haired, very good looking blonde joining him. “I tell you over and over again.”

“Hey Max,” Ray waved casually. “You look like you had better days.”

“Yea,” Max sighed, pushing his tray of food away. “I’ve been looking for professor Ivanov. He has an assessment sheet I need to fill–”

“Oh, hey,” Tyson yelled, holding out the paper he had been given. “He was looking for you, too. Gave me this and said to hand it too you.”

Max grabbed it from Tyson’s tomato-pasted hands and looked it over with a sigh of relief as he leaned into the sandy-haired, very handsome looking man beside him.

“Oh, yea,” Max said, blushing. “Sorry, Ray, forgot to introduce you two. Ray, this is Miguel, my boyfriend.”

The pair shook hands. “I’ve heard a lot about you.”

Ray blushed at how soft and silky the voice came out. Not only was Miguel seriously hot (well with having the most amazing hair; a light brown at the back and very icy light blonde in the front), he had the boy band look down completely: Light cloudless blue eyes, a tanned complection and very well built-body (though it barely rivaled professor Hiwatari’s).

“I heard about you too,” Ray said, smiling as he watched Miguel pull Max to him and kiss his hairline.

“So when are you guys planning on having your anniversary party?” Tyson asked after swallowing a large mouthful of pasta.

“Well... actually,” Max said, blushing and looking to the table.

“Oh, God, you guys aren’t breaking up are you?” Tyson gasped, wide-eyed.

“What... no, Tyson–” Max interjected.

“We were thinking of just going out to dinner and then spending a night to ourselves,” Miguel explained.

“But the party is a ritual,” Tyson whined.

“Maybe for you Tyson,” Max said, looking at his plate of food. “But me and Miguel barely have time alone anymore. What with classes and all.”

“Well, then, I say it’s a good idea,” Ray said, smiling at the pair. “What anniversary is this, anyways?”

“Our third,” Max whispered, blushing.

“Fine, no party,” Tyson grumbled.

Max frowned at the plate of food, and Ray, for the first time, saw how pale Max actually looked. His eyes were much duller than yesterday, and his skin seemed almost tight and lifeless. His eyelids drooped and then snapped back open as Tyson and Miguel started talking about Claud and Tyson’s relationship and that they would have a large party then.

Ray watched as Max slowly swayed and shook his head, eyes still on his plate and face placid and eerie-looking. Max’s tongue flicked out a moistened his dry, cracking lips as he raised a shaky hand and pushed the food tray away a second time, further than before. Now the neko was seriously worried.

“Max, what’s wrong?” Ray asked, leaning forward and placing his hand over the blondes.

Miguel heard this and immediately turned to the golden haired male beside him. His cloud blue eyes became darker with worry as he watched Max look up slowly and give Ray only a half-hearted smile. Tyson was also focused on his friend, worry etched across his usually always happy face.

“I’m fine guys,” Max whispered. “Honestly.”

“You don’t look fine,” Claud said as he joined the group, sitting beside Tyson.

“Max – baby – what is it,” Miguel whispered, holding the blonde closer.

“Nothing, really,” Max practically whimpered as his hand snaked from under Ray’s and wrapped around his small torso. “Just a little tired. Stop worrying, I’m okay.”

“God, your burning up,” Miguel gasped, feeling Max’s forehead as the golden haired male leaned almost lifelessly into his cloudy eyed lover.

“Miguel, you should taking him back to the dorm,” Tyson said, worry etched all over his form. “I’ll go to his teachers and tell them he wont be in class and get the homework assignments.”

“Want help carrying him?” Claud asked.

“No, I can do it,” Miguel said, standing slowly and pulling a now whimpering Max into his arms. “But could you go to my classes and get my work as well. I think I need to stay with him for today.”

“You got it,” Claud said, getting up immediately and giving Tyson a kiss on the cheek. “Well hang out after classes.”

“I’ll help you, Tyson,” Ray said, watching Max with worried eyes as Miguel whispered softly to him.

“Thank’s Ray, I think I’ll need it,” Tyson said. “Okay, Miguel, we’ll be their in a few.”

With a nod, Miguel practically ran from the cafeteria, Max clutching his shirt as tightly as he could, his face buried in the sandy blondes chest as he closed his dull blue eyes. Ray watched them go, worrying why Max was suddenly so ill. He heard Tyson sigh beside him and turned to see the stormy eyed male looking out at the doors.

“Does this happen often?” Ray asked softly.

“No, never,” Tyson said. “Max barely get’s sick.”

“I sense a ‘but’ coming on,” Ray said, looking from Tyson to the doors.

“When Max was younger he got really bad pneumonia,” Tyson said softly, his storm coloured eyes softening. “He was only three weeks old and almost died.”

“Poor Max,” Ray whispered. “Will he be okay.”

“He’ll be fine in a week,” Tyson said smiling. “His body just got a little weaker, that’s all. The doctors told his parents that he would have a tougher time fighting off viruses like the flu or a cold, and then if one did actually start to spread, he would get sick quickly.”

Ray didn’t know what to say. He could barely tell by the way Max acted that he was somebody who suffered in a way no one else did. Having gotten pneumonia so young must had really damaged the blondes interior self-defense structure. Ray snapped out of his far-off stare as he heard Tyson continue.

“... It was funny at first when he and Miguel started dating,” Tyson laughed, though it was half-hearted.

“What do you mean?” Ray asked as the pair ascended the stairs to the upper classrooms.

“Well, he thought Miguel wouldn’t like him because of his... well, what he calls it... condition,” Tyson laughed again. “I couldn’t believe it when he told me.”

“You mean, just because he can get sick easier, he thought Miguel wouldn’t like him,” Ray said, smiling and holding back his own laughter.

“You said it,” Tyson sighed. “After he told Miguel about how easily he was able to get sick, and that he didn’t want it to compromise their relationship, Miguel just laughed and said that that didn’t matter to him.”

Ray just smiled, listening intently as Tyson continued.

“It’s so sweet what Miguel calls him,” Tyson whispered, smiling and looking at the ground.

“And that would be?” Ray asked.

“His fragile angel,” Tyson hummed, blushing a little. “A perfect name for our little Maxie.”

“They really are in love, aren’t they,” Ray said, his voice soft and caring.

“Yea, they are,” Tyson said, smiling, then frowned. “I just hate having to wait.”

“Huh?”

“Oh, sorry Ray,” Tyson laughed, patting him on the back. “Maybe I should tell you.”

“Tell... huh... what?”

“Miguel wants to propose to our little Max,” Tyson whispered.

Ray stumbled, eyes bulging as he slapped a hand over his mouth and stared at a very wide smiling Tyson.

“You mean... he wants to get engaged,” Ray gasped, suddenly beaming with happiness. “That’s so awesome.”

“Yea, I know,” Tyson said. “Only one problem.”

“And that would be?” Ray asked as they continued down the hallway.

“Miguel’s father and mother are homophobic,” Tyson sighed.

“You’ve got to be kidding,” Ray blurted, glaring ahead of himself down the hall. “What kind of parents wouldn’t respect their sons decision.”

“The kind that disowned Miguel,” Tyson mumbled darkly. “He was kicked out when he went home with Max for spring break. He had announced it so happily, but his father got so angry and tossed Max out.”

“What about Miguel?” Ray asked, still glaring at the end of the hall.

“He tried to reason with his parents,” Tyson said, his voice dark and angry. “His mother had gone off to her room crying, saying she had a disgusting son. His dad...”

Ray watched as the pits of burning rage snapped in Tyson’s eyes. He stopped in front of one of the many classrooms and knocked on the door before entering. They heard a teacher call to them but Tyson didn’t move. His hands clenched at his sides and he practically burned the door with the fire burning hatefully in his eyes.

“Maybe... maybe I should get this one,” Ray said, trying to ease Tyson out of his anger. “And you don’t have to tell me... it’s none of my business.”

“Thanks Ray,” Tyson sighed. “Maybe Miguel will tell you at some point... or Max, if he doesn’t break down into tears like... like last time.”

Ray nodded in understanding and walked into the classroom. The teacher understood almost immediately, handing Ray a pile of homework that almost broke his arms and he gave the woman a strained smile as he walked back up the stairs. He and Tyson walked to the many different classrooms, getting the work they needed and headed out into the campus toward their dorm.

“Is the second year actually this stacked,” Ray gasped, his arms heavy with school work and books.

“Let me take some of that,” Tyson said, grabbing a stack. “Yea, it is. But let’s remember, this is a weeks worth.”

“Right,” Ray said, nodding. “I almost thought it was a days. If that was so, I would have so failed.”

“So would have I,” Tyson laughed, pulling out his key.

Before he could even place it in, the door swung open and Claud appeared. He smiled at his boyfriend and grabbed the pile of books, allowing the two inside. He led Ray into the kitchen and they placed the pile of assignments on the table. Ray swiped a hand over his brow, collapsing into a chair and letting out a heavy breath.

“How is he?” Tyson asked, sitting down beside Claud.

“I dunno,” Claud said truthfully, grabbing Tyson’s hand and lacing their fingers. “Miguel let me in and then disappeared into his room after I handed him his assignments.”

“Think we should check on him?” Ray asked, looking out the door through the kitchen arch. “Just to see if he needs anything before we go to class?”

“I think he’ll be fine,” Tyson whispered, also looking to the door. “Miguel will probably stand guard over him until he’s well enough to open his eyes.”

Ray smiled, though the worry still sat within him. Suddenly, he remembered Tyson trying to tell him something in the cafeteria before Max had told him to swallow his food. He would have told the navy haired male the same thing, but Max had gotten to him first. And, truth be told, he barely understood a word said... actually... he didn’t understand a thing.

“Tyson, what were you trying to say in the caf?” Ray asked, looking away from Max’s bedroom door.

“Oh, right,” Tyson said, also turning from the door. “I was telling you about professor Hiwatari.”

Claud seemed to find interest in this and listened in.

“Last year, when I had his class, I wasn’t great at all with any of the skills I was supposed to know,” Tyson said, leaning forward on the table. “He got so angry with me because I’d slow the class down. After while I got really annoyed with professor Hiwatari and told him to shove it.”

“Oh, God,” Ray said, sighing and shaking his head.

“I swear I saw hells fire blaze in his eyes,” Tyson said, shivering at the memory. “When he spoke to me it was the calmest voice I ever heard, but I could hear the deadly lethal tone that he was enraged.”

“You’re smart, you know that babe,” Claud said sarcastically.

“Shut up,” Tyson grouched, punching Claud gently in the arm. “He told me I wouldn’t be able to continue in his class because I wasn’t good enough and kicked me out. I thought I’d have to leave the university until he called me to his class and said I had to write the terminology paper about Self Defense if I intended to pass.”

“Did you?” Ray asked.

“Barely,” Tyson groaned, remembering his mark. “I just got a C- and I swear he looked so pleased that I had almost failed.”

“Well maybe if you hadn’t told him to ‘shove it’ none of that would have happened,” Claud said, smirking at his lover.

“Every time he sees me now he glares that same dark glare he gave me when he kicked me out,” Tyson said, looking back over at Max’s room. “I’m just glad I decided to change my courses around so I wouldn’t have to take another of his classes.”

“Did you ever have him Claud?” Ray asked.

“Yea, he wasn’t bad with me,” he said, pulling Tyson against his chest. “But I did see him get angry with a lot of students who wouldn’t had homework in on time.”

Everyone turned abruptly when they heard Max’s bedroom door open, Miguel appearing through the crack and closing it quietly. He sighed and ran a hand through his hair, walking down toward the waiting group. He smiled warmly at them and poured himself a cup of coffee and joined the table on Ray’s side.

“So?” Tyson asked quickly.

“He’s fine for now,” Miguel sighed. “He had some soup and fell asleep.”

“More like passed out,” Claud said, staring at his best friend. “I haven’t seen him sick in forever.”

“Especially this bad,” Miguel said nodding. “Last time this happened he collapsed and I had to drive him to the hospital.”

“Are you serious,” Ray gasped and too his surprise, so did Tyson.

“Why did you not tell me,” Tyson blurted.

“We tired to tell you,” Claud said honestly. “But we couldn’t reach your cell.”

Tyson lowered his head. “I remember Max coming to see me and he looked a little drained but he said it was just fatigue.”

“He didn’t want to worry you Tyson,” Claud said, rubbing his lovers back.

“Yea, I know,” Tyson whispered. “Come on Ray, we better head to class.”

“I’ll be here,” Miguel said. “So don’t worry about him, he’s in my care.”

Tyson smiled and leaned down, kissing Claud deeply as Miguel picked up his mug and headed back into Max’s room. Ray grabbed his bag from the floor and waited for Tyson. The navy haired male appeared with Claud at his side and the three of them headed down to class, their conversations never lasting more than a minute as they kept returning their thought sto Max and how he was.

“I’ll come and get you after your last class,” Claud said, kissing Tyson once more before moving off toward the Crescent Moon building.

“See you back in the dorm,” Tyson said, giving Ray a quick wave before running off to the Defenses and Court building.

Ray sighed, looking up at the blazing sun overhead and wiped his brow. He sulked off to class, not wanting to see professor Hiwatari at the moment and wanting to be their for Max. He opened the door and sighed, cool air washing over him and breathing in the coolness. With a long, slow sigh, he made his way toward class, and the rest of the day awaiting him.

*~*~*

Miguel heard the door click shut, the others voices fading out as he leaned away from the door and sat down on the edge of Max’s queen-sized bed. He watched with worry as his golden haired boyfriend whimpered in his sleep, his head tossing one way and then the next, forehead glistening with sweat. He didn’t look good, not with his face flushed almost completely white, his lips purple and trembling and his body ablaze with head.

Slowly, caressing Max’s pale cheek, Miguel leaned down and squeezed out the rag within the bucket of icy cold water. He dipped it inside the bucket, squeezing gently again and made sure it was damp enough – but not to damp – to place on Max’s forehead. He leaned over his boyfriend and placed the wet rag on his lovers forehead, dabbing at his steaming head.

“Oh Max,” he whispered.

Another whimper escaped the blonde’s mouth, his lips cracking open barely as he took in a deep, shallow breath. His chest rose and fell heavily, his eyes squeezed tightly shut. Miguel dabbed the rag down to his right cheek, feeling the rag warm under th hot skin. He leaned down, dipped the cloth again, and again squeezed it out and splayed it across Max’s forehead.

“Get better love,” he sighed, leaning down and pressing his cool lips to Max’s hot cheek.

“M-Miguel,” Max whimpered.

“Shhh, it’s okay baby, I’m here,” Miguel whispered.

“I d-don’t feel g-good,” Max shuddered, leaning closer to his lover.

“I know Max,” Miguel hummed, petting Max’s blonde hair. “You’ll get better, it’ll just take some time.”

“My body hurts,” Max groaned, opening his eyes a crack to stare blearily at his boyfriend.

“Do you want me to get you some tea?”

Max lifted a hand from under his duvet, reaching up and placing his quivering fingers against his lovers cheek. He smiled weakly, leaning forward as Miguel leaned down, their lips greeting one another slow and soft. They pulled apart, Miguel straying a hand and lacing his fingers into Max’s hair. He smiled and placed his own cool forehead against his boyfriend, the heat making him frown with worry.

“Don’t worry about the tea,” Max whispered, ghosting his lips over soft puckered ones. “All I need is you here with me.”

“Max,” Miguel whispered, pressing their lips together more passionately.

*~*~*

His hands felt clammy and rough. He paced the floor, his shoes clapping loudly on the ground. They were the only ones in the courthouse, waiting for the judge to call them in and tell them when the court date was. Crimson eyes laced with grey followed a pale, redhead, getting less and less annoyed of the frantic pacing and more and more worried about how pale his friend had become.

“Tala, please,” Kai said exasperated, startling the redhead. “Just sit down.”

He did, a little to quickly and fell against the slate-haired professor sitting beside him, resting his head on his toned shoulder. He let out a shuddering breath and jumped when the two doors to the courtroom swung open, the marshal stepping out to greet them.

“Mr. Ivanov?” the man asked.

“Yes,” Tala said quickly, standing shakily.

“The honorable judge Hiwatari will see you now,” the man said.

“Yes... right,” Tala muttered and turned to Kai. “Are you coming in with me?”

“And miss seeing my dear sweet grandfather,” Kai said in a dark sarcastic tone. “Of course I’m coming in.”

Tala smiled at him, but his face fell when Kai leaned down, placing his mouth next to Tala’s ear and whispered to him.

“You think I’d let you do this alone,” Kai said, standing up tall and placing a hand on the redheads shoulder. “Come on, let’s go and say a nice big hello.”

With a shuddering nod, Tala turned and followed the marshal into the courtroom, his face going even paler as they neared the judge, his dark grey eyes focused squarely on Tala and then moving to Kai, going darker still att he sight of his grandson. He gave them both the fake-est of smiles and picked up his notes on the case.

“Ivanov,” elder Hiwatari said, smirking darkly. “It’s been a while.”

“Y-yes sir... it has,” Tala mumbled.

“Cut the crap, Voltaire,” Kai hissed, standing protectively in front of the redhead. “Just give us the date so we can get out of here.”

“My, my, my,” said elder Hiwatari, shaking his head. “Kai, I thought I’d get more respect out of you seeing as you’re my grandson.”

“A grandson you disowned,” Kai snarled. “Give us the date, Voltaire.”

“Yes, yes,” he said, shaking a hand at Kai. “Mr Ivanov, your court date is set in four months. This should give you enough time to set up a case.”

Kai could see the smirk plaster across his grandfathers sullen features. He hated the old man more than he hated hell itself. Ever since he had told his grandfather he like men, the old man had had it in for him. When he started dating Tala, Voltaire did anything and everything to break the almost inseparable pair apart... and he had succeeded. Not to his fullest, oh no; they still stuck together. Kai would do anything to protect Tala... and he meant anything.

“Don’t worry, Voltaire,” Kai said very quietly. “Well have a case... and your little masquerade will go down the drain.”

With that said, Kai grabbed Tala’s upper arm and lead him from the courtroom, smirking at the dark scowl his grandfather sent the pair as the doors closed behind them. He released Tala’s arm and sighed, walking ahead of the redhead, expecting him to follow. He stopped when he didn’t hear Tala’s feet following him.

“Tala?” Kai whispered, turning around to see the redheads head down. “What’s wrong?”

Tala looked up slowly, hot tears running down his cheeks. He turned away form Kai, shaking his head and collapsing onto the bench outside the courtroom. His shoulders trembled as he cried, his hands over his eyes to hide his embarrassment. He felt Kai sit beside him and to warm arms encircle his shoulders. Immediately he leaned into the warmth, letting the tears flow scolding down his cheeks.

“I’m scared Kai,” he whispered. “What if he wins?”

“He wont, Tala,” Kai whispered, resting his cheek in the warm flaming hair as he felt the other shudder and more tears spill down his cheeks. “I promise I wont let him get you.”

Tala sniffed deeply, pulling to arms length and looking into Kai’s sincere eyes. More tears flowed down his cheeks and he wrapped his arms around the others waist, resting his head on Kai’s chest as he continued to cry, the fear slowly melting away into warmth.

“Come on, Tal,” Kai whispered, using the pet name he had given the redhead. “Let’s get back.”

With a slow nod, Tala stood with Kai and allowed the skate-haired other lead him from the courthouse. His heart was still heavy and fear was etched into every fibre of his being. He leaned his head on Kai’s shoulder, trying to enjoy the warmth. The stepped out into the sunlight and toward Kai’s truck.

“You’re going to be late for your class you know,” Tala said, reading the clock as Kai revved the engine.

“I asked Mr Gao to sub for me while I was with you,” Kai said, looking out the back window as he pulled out from his parking space.

“But this is your class for the rest of the day?” Tala said, dabbing his eyes with a tissue from the box on the floor.

“I know,” Kai whispered, putting his truck in drive and pulling out of the drive. “I plan to spend it with you... my best friend.”

Tala smiled and leaned on the open window, letting the cool breeze rustle the long red tousles of his hair. He felt Kai squeeze his hand and returned it, knowing that his best friend would definitely be at his side... no matter what.

‘No matter what,’ Tala thought happily.

*~*~*

Ray sighed and pulled on his sweater, tugging it down over his loose mane of hair and flopping down onto his bed. The computer screen was blinking slowly, the long scroll of homework unfinished. He had been at it for more than three hours and wasn’t near finished. He was surprised that professor Hiwatari wasn’t in class after lunch that day, but professor Gao said it was urgent and he would be back on Thursday.

‘No matter,’ Ray thought smiling. ‘Not like I was wondering where he was anyways.’

Oh please, you know you were, that stupid voice nagged again.

He groaned and rolled onto his stomach, the long sleeves of his oversized sweater falling over his hands. He had only briefly seen Max when he had gotten in, and he didn’t look good. His face was ghostly white, but he smiled nonetheless at Ray and asked how his day went. For some reason Ray could only think that that was the typical type of Max, always worrying about others rather than himself.

The screen blinked black and Ray looked over at it. He sighed, thinking about another probability of man-slaughter but nothing came to mind. With a groan, and a quick punch to his pillow, he got off the warmth of his bed and flopped into the computer chair, flicking the mouse as the screen came back to life.

The clock on his desk ticked midnight and he groaned, rubbing the sleep from his eyes and focusing blearily on the screen. His golden eyes drooped, and he felt the heaviness of his lids getting worse and worse. He needed sleep, and badly. He still had his appointment set up at early the next day, and quite frankly wasn’t looking forward to it.

“Why did I even agree to a five in the morning lesson,” he groaned, shaking his head.

Because you want to see your teachers hot body when it’s glistening with sweat, that voice nagged once again.

Suddenly, almost unaware of his own bodies reaction, Ray gasped and looked down, noticing his ‘little soldier’ standing at attention. He blushed to himself and placed the pillow he had been holding from his bed over his groin, wanting to shy away from seeing his evident bugle. It wasn’t working, however, due to the fact he could feel it pressing against his sweat pants.

“Just my luck,” he groaned, feeling the pressure build as images of professor Hiwatari flashed glittering across his mind. “How perverted.”

He felt his arousal twitch with wanton release and bit his lip in frustration, stifling the whimpering need coursing through his body suddenly. Why in the hell he was getting aroused over a teacher he hardly knew and didn’t much care to know in the first place? he had no idea. His face flushed as he looked around his room, making sure to the door was closed tightly before standing.

He walked stiffly over to his bed, flopping down onto the long thick mattress and heaving a sigh of relief as his plush duvet blanket comforted his fall. His fingers twitched shyly as he reached down, a blush across his face as his fingers straddled the waistband of his sweat and reached in. His heart raced and a gasp caught in his throat as his own cold fingers wrapped delicately around his warm flesh, easing the pressure by the simplest of touch.

‘Perfect,’ he thought with a sigh of relief.

His hand glided slowly up his erection, the pad of his thumb gliding across the tip a few times before he dipped low again, gripping tighter onto his shaft. He closed his eyes, arching his back into his own touch as his lips parted, a moaning breath escaping the confines of his roiling stomach. He badly wanted release... and fast.

Suddenly, with a gasp, he felt a hot mouth press over his, hand grasp tightly to his erection over his own and squeeze. He whimpered, tears glittering in his eye suddenly as he looked up into crimson pools of swirling grey. They fluttered down on him lustfully and he groaned, arching into the hand that was now stroking him so intimately.

“Professor,” he rasped, crying out as he squeezed tightly onto two well-rounded shoulders and dug his nails deep.

His head rolled to the side and his mouth gaped open, pleasure coursing through him. His heart fluttered as hot lips attacked the sensitive flesh of his exposed neck, marking him, tasting him and biting him. He whimpered and arched again, pressing his hips deeper onto the probing hand, gasping and writhing under the others sensual touch. He cried out again, his fingers trembling as he swung his arms around the others neck and pulled their bodies together.

“I... ahh... haaa haaa... oh, god.... Nnnnh, so good,” he panted, opening one golden orb and falling against his bed again.

He propped himself up onto his elbows, watching with a deep blush as the mouth moved swiftly down his torso to his arousal, taking the hot flesh into a warm welcoming mouth and sucking. With an even deeper blush, Ray watched as the professor licked it his flesh and sliding down his length and back up, bobbing at the top, a tongue flicking out and sliding along his length before delving back down and back up rapidly, suctioning tightly onto his hot flesh.

Gasping, his hands fisting into silver and blue hair, body arching fully into the hot mouth, his release came, flooding his body as hot white sparks rained down on him, scalding his already burning flesh. His head jolted and he bit his lip as his erection pulsated with completion. He fell against his bed, eyes fluttering tiredly as he raised his now semen-coated fingers up to his face, watching as the milky white fluid dripped down his palm.

‘Professor...’

He sighed as the title rang through his ear and dipped his fingers into his mouth, sucking them as sleep dripped into him. His eyes closed and he fell into a dreamless sleep, his body sticky and sweaty, his heart pounding... and the very explicit thought of his very own professor taking him still lingering on his tingling skin.

*~*~*

BEEP BEEP BEEP BEEP...

Ray groaned and turned onto his side, looking at the clock mounted on his computer desk. Only four twenty five in the morning and the sun wasn’t even out. He groaned, pushing his head deep into his pillow as he tried to go back to sleep, but the beeping of his alarm made his ears twitch and a dangerous growl escape his throat.

He sat up and walked across the room, stumbling over his tired feet and slamming down the button to shut off the annoying sound. He looked out at the grounds – completely bare save for the few cars from early morning professors and teachers that were setting up their classes for the early students.

‘Better get ready for training,’ Ray thought tiredly.

Twenty minutes later, Ray was running around the dorm, a slice of buttered toast in his mouth and readying himself for training. He messily tied his hair back in a shaggy ponytail and slipped into a loose fitting shirt. He skittered to a halt in front of max’s room and knocked lightly on the door before entering.

He wasn’t surprised to see the blonde sitting up in bed, sniffling and holding a tissue to his nose. He smiled, nonetheless, when Ray walked in. He smiled back and sat down on the chair Miguel had set in the room so he could watch over the golden haired male.

“Hey Ray,” Max said thickly. “I’m guezzing you have training with professor ‘Iwatari.”

“Yea,” Ray said smiling, placing hand over Max’s warm forehead. “Your still really hot, you know.”

“Aww, what a compliment,” Max laughed, but it was cut off by a tremor of coughs.

He clenched tightly into the sheets, his throat burning. He found acold glass at his lips and reluctantly took a sip, sighing gently as the glass was tipped to his lips again, eye closed as he sniffed back the clog in his nose and flopped back into bed.

“Where’s Miguel?” Ray asked suddenly.

“Shower,” Max pointed weakly.

“Alright. Get better okay. I should be back around seven or so,” Ray said, standing up and walking to the door.

He left the room with a wave and was running down the stairs into the school grounds only moments later, racing to the training building. His heart thundered as he raced down the stairs and slid before his class, his shoes dragging heavily as he heaved for a deep calming breath and looked at his watch.

‘Yes, a minute early,’ Ray cheered inwardly with a smirk.

He knocked quietly, waiting for a response. When he didn’t get one, he tried again. Still nothing. Not wanting to miss up his chance to get back into the class, he opened the door and peaked in. The lights were on, but everything was quiet. He stepped inside, the door clicking loudly closed behind him. He jumped at the sound, suddenly feeling very exposed.

His feet echoed around the circular room, clattering off the walls and bouncing over the fans and air conditioner grates. He swallowed down the thick lump in his throat, wondering if it was a good idea to have gotten up so early. He turned swiftly, something catching the corner of his eyes, but the room was empty save for himself.

CLICK...

He froze in fear, the unmistakable sound of a hammer being cocked back and the clank of a bullet clattering into place. His breath shot frozen in his throat, his heart thundering in his ears. He could hear the others rattling breath beside him, the barrel cocked right next to his temple. He squeezed his eyes shut, fearing for death... when the trigger was pulled.

Nothing.

He heard another click where the bullets fire should have been, but nothing happened. He opened his eyes and turned to the barrel that was still aimed at him and looked directly into crimson blazing orbs and gasped.

“Professor,” Ray cried, jumping back. “What... what are you... what???”

“Very unprofessional,” professor Hiwatari said, lowering his unloaded weapon and placing it back in the holster attached to the back of his pants. “Entering a room that you are unfamiliar with... though I must say I am impressed that you almost caught me when you turned back to the door.”

“You mean... that... that was...”

“A test, yes, it was.”

“Why?” Ray cried, the fear draining from him, being replaced with shock and anger.

“It’s part of the training Mr Kon,” Kai said easily.

“Your kidding,” Ray groaned, falling to the floor and clutching his raging heart. “I almost had a heart attack.”

“I quite doubt that,” Kai said, kneeling before him. “And no, I am not kidding. This is a very strict part of training that is far more advanced in defensive training. Tell me, Mr Kon, do you know what to do when someone aims a gun at you when you are blind sided?”

“Umm... well... I... no,” he whispered.

“No matter, hardly any one does,” Kai said reassuringly.

Ray quivered on the spot, the sudden realization that he had been at the point of a gun sinking in. Tears swelled in his yellow eyes and he shuddered, staring at the opposite wall, his heart still racing. He could see the professors face change from calm and concentrated to worried and watchful.

“Hey, calm down,” Kai whispered calmingly. “It was only training.”

“I thought I was going to die,” Ray whispered, his lower lips trembling. “I thought I was dead.”

He jumped when a hand gently caressed his cheek and looked up into calm crimson eyes, seeing their sincerity and softness. That same look had been given to professor Ivanov on Tuesday on Ray’s first day when the two men had been in the cafeteria. Ray had been surprised at how the two professors acted around one another, seeing their body language move around one another almost... lovingly.

“Sorry professor,” Ray croaked, wiping his eyes.

“Don’t worry, Kon,” Kai said softly. “It’s natural to feel the way you are after facing down the barrel of a gun.”

“I feel so embarrassed,” he sighed.

“Don’t be,” Kai said, sitting down as well. “Everyone goes through the same trauma. It’s a natural reflex in the body... as is stiffening up like your paralyzed.”

“Have you ever looked down the barrel of a gun?” Ray asked suddenly.

“More than once,” Kai said earnestly. “The last time I wasn’t so lucky.”

“What happened?” Ray gasped, turning to stare almost enchantingly at the elder male.

“Got caught up in bad business and was fired at four times,” Kai shrugged, lying down on the mats across the floor. “One bullet grazed my temple, the other my arm and one hit my leg. The other was a ricochet that his me in the neck.”

Ray could only gape. His own professor was talking so calmly about being hit four times and didn’t seemed fazed by it. He was in awe at how calm and serene he looked – not to mention how handsome he was in the early mornings. Snapping himself out of his stupor, Ray looked up as suddenly professor Hiwatari was standing, a hand being held out for him to take.

“I better start your training,” Kai said. “Let’s get to it then.”

Ray nodded and took the offering hand. He was shocked by the older mans strength when he was suddenly pulled up to standing, his feet momentarily leaving the ground as he came barely inches from his own professors face, their lips almost touching. He backed up quickly, eyes wide with embarrassment again.

Kai didn’t seem to notice as he began to speak. “First off, the approach from the front.”

Ray wasn’t ready in the least. He stepped back and stumbled over his own footing as Kai appeared before him in a flash, moving so swiftly he was able to give the neko a very sexy smile before grabbing both his arms, twisting them behind his back and pushing him to the floor, his right knee pressed to Ray’s spine, immobilizing him.

Ray grunted on impact, seething suddenly as he felt the painful pressure against his middle backside, almost like his spine was dislocating.

“Rule number one: always be ready for any type of physical attack,” Kai said, releasing his hold on the neko and standing.

“R-right,” Ray muttered, standing himself.

“What I just did to you is known as the reverse spine location,” Kai said, walking over to his position again. “I want you to do the same to me.”

“You mean... right now,” Ray gasped.

“No, next week at sundown,” Kai said sarcastically. “Yes, now.”

“But... I... I don’t know how,” Ray whispered, looking away and blushing.

“I’ll walk you through it,” Kai said. “Just walk with my words.”

He nodded and stood ready.

“Walk toward me,” Kai said, his voice smooth and silky as Ray did. “Now, place both your hands on my left and right wrist.”

Ray reached out shyly, gripping softly onto his professors hands and blushing as he looked up into those mysterious crimson eyes, watching as they narrowed slowly – seductively – and he took a step toward the neko, their bodies coming into close proximity.

“Swing under my left arm and pull both behind my back,” Kai whispered, making Ray tremble and blush again.

He did, swinging under his professors arm and clenching both together behind hi back gently. Kai looked back at him, watching his movements and checking his posture. He nodded his approval and looked back out in front of him.

“Place your right shoulder on the middle of my upper back and force me downward,” Kai instructed, which Ray did. “Now that I’m down, place your legs on either side of my body and place one knee in the lower nook of my back.”

Ray swallowed as he straddled his professor, feeling the tight muscles of the older males back contract and relax. He shuddered at the feeling, biting hard on his lip and thinking disgusting thoughts to keep his arousal at a very low level. He placed a leg shakily on Kai’s lower back and pushed, immobilizing him.

Almost instantly, ray was lying on his back, looking up with dazed eyes ta the ceiling. A face appeared before him and he shuddered, feeling his professor pressing all his wight onto his legs as he tried to wriggle free of the hold, but was unable too. He breathed heavily as he tried to move, but both arms were pinned above his head, and his legs were being contained by two very strong muscular ones on either side of his body.

“The leg wrap,” Kai said, staring down at the blushing neko. “In this position you are unable to attack your attacker, but they can no longer attack you as well.”

“O-o-oh,” Ray stuttered.

“It’s not the best defense, but it keeps you sake during knife fights and hand to hand combat attacks,” professor Hiwatari instructed.

“P-professor,” Ray whispered, looking away and blushing. “Umm... do you think... maybe... you could move.”

Kai looked at him with calm eyes and moved, rolling to the side and standing up. He looked at the clock above the door and made a sound, making Ray turn his head to him, his body numb as he laid splayed across the ground.

“I don’t believe it,” Kai said, crossing his arms over his toned chest. “Already six thirty.”

“It is,” Ray whispered, his eyelids fluttering.

“I think this lesson is over,” Kai said, walking over to his duffle bag and picking it up. “I will see you at two for the second half.”

“R-right,” Ray mumbled.

He was still on the ground unable to move, heat coursing through his body, his skin tingling and burning where the professor had touched him, straddled him and held him. He let out a shaky breath, making the older man turn to him with worry.

“Mr Kon, are you well?” he asked.

“Y-yea, I’m fine,” Ray said, sitting up slowly.

“Have you eaten?” Kai asked, making Ray turn quickly.

“Yes,” he said, almost to fast for his own liking.

“Alright then,” Kai said nonchalantly. “I’ll see you at two then. Here in the same room.”

Ray nodded as Kai opened to door and it closed behind him with a click, his footfalls echoing across the hallway outside and up the stairs before they disappeared into the rumble of footsteps from students. With a groan, Ray fell back against the floor, the sudden need for relief erupting within him.

*~*~*

Max opened his eyes slowly as he heard the shower shut off, steam erupting from the bathroom as a very sexy, very wet Miguel walked out, a towel hanging loosely around his waist, another draped across his masculine shoulders. His hair was matted and hung loosely around his tanned features, his cloud blue eyes blustery and whimsical.

The pair locked eyes and Max couldn’t help but blush at his boyfriend. It was so natural to see Miguel in this form, but, no matter what, he always blushed like it was the first time. His heart pounded in his chest as he sniffled and sat up slowly.

“You need to tan, Maxie-baby,” Miguel said playfully as he sat down on the edge of the golden haired males bed. “Your so pale.”

“Thank’s for the indiscretion, Sherlock,” Max giggled and coughed, patting his own chest and smiling weakly.

“Your still weak,” Miguel sighed, brushing back a few stray locks of golden blonde hair. “You need to sleep.”

“I’ve been sleeping for hours,” Max whined cutely, making Miguel smile.

“Sleep,” he said again. “It’s good for you.”

“Yea, well so is sex,” Max said bluntly. “I don’t see us doing that, do you?”

“Your sick, though,” Miguel shot back.

“What’s that supposed to mean. I heard having sex was actually good for someone who was ill,” Max said, crossing his arms defiantly.

“Is that so,” Miguel whispered huskily, sliding onto the bed and trapping Max beneath him. “Maybe I should test this ‘little theory’ of yours.”

Smirking, Max wrapped his arms around Miguel’s neck and pulled him down into a soft kiss. They parted, kissing lightly before pulling away completely. Miguel sighed and laid down over top of his lover, lacing his fingers into soft golden hair before leaning down into another, more passionate, kiss.

Miguel let his lips stray, moving away from Max’s mouth to his neck and licking delicately at the more sensitive skin. He let his teeth graze across his carotid artery, feeling the extreme pulse and warmth from the vessel. He sucked on the tender flesh, Max breathing hard as he whimpered and squirmed.

Max, his heart fluttering and eyes drooping, held Miguel’s rocking hips in place, feeling the evident arousal of his lover against his own. He knew it Miguel continued such ministration it would be over far too soon. He groaned, gripping tightly onto the bare wet hips, the towel loosening further as he instinctively arched his hips upward, their erections sliding together intimately through the constricting fabric.

“How do you feel?” Miguel whispered, wanting to make sure his lover was comfortable before they continued.

Max whimpered, pulling Miguel into another quivering kiss, giving his answer through touch rather than voice. He knew if he even tried to speak, it would only come out a groan of pleasure and want. They parted, breath ragged and fast as Miguel dipped lower again, sliding the duvet off the bed and splaying his almost-completely-nude body over his lovers own completely nude form. He hissed in pleasure as Max arched again, crying out his want, head falling back into the feathery pillow below his head.

“Miguel...” Max rasped.

He cried out, louder than before, as heat enveloped his arousal and he was searing hot. His body trembled for release as his fingers tangled and danced within the sandy blonde and light brown strands of beautiful hair. His head fell back into the pillow a second time, voice caught in his throat and his moan coming out more of a strangled waver.

Miguel watched Max through his half-lidded eyes, entranced by how intimate and loving his beautiful blonde angel was. He closed his eyes, getting lost in the moment of pleasure as he moved down across the twitching flesh and back up. He removed his mouth completely, tongue rolling across the wet head before dipping low and burying his face in soft golden curls. His tongue slid along the backside of Max’s erection, up to the tip and was then engulfed again.

It was too much, far to much, and Max arched, crying out, voice raspy and thick as he stiffened and released, his vision blurred and weak, lids drooping. He convulsed from the pleasure, his breath ragged, beads of sweat sliding down his slick body, heat boiling over him, through him and around him.

“Mmmm, you always were so exotic to taste,” Miguel growled, predatory. “Shall we continue?”

“Yes...” Max panted, pulling Miguel into another fiery kiss.

*~*~*

Tyson lifted his head from Claud’s lap as they heard muffled cries from behind Max’s closed bedroom door. He rolled his eyes and buried his head deeper into the light blue haired mans chest, trying his hardest to watch the movie that was on, but was unable too.

“Well, it’s not *totally* obvious what their doing,” Claud said, rolling his dark black eyes. “I thought Max was sick?”

“He is,” Tyson muttered, looking up into Claud’s slender face and caressing a cheek softly. “He read something in a magazine a while back saying sex was supposed to be good for if your sick.”

“Really?”

“Really really.”

“Hmm...”

“What?”

“I was just thinking... maybe I should try that with you when you get ill next,” Claud said, smirking dangerously.

Tyson smirked himself. “We could always pretend I’m sick... and you could give it a try right now.”

“You know... I think I will,” Claud whispered, leaning down and capturing his boyfriends soft lips. “I love you... you know that?”

“Of course I know,” Tyson whispered, rubbing the back of Claud’s neck. “And I love you in return... forever.”

“Forever...” Claud whispered, pressing their lips together again.

*~*~*

Kai walked into his apartment, sliding off his jacket and placing it on the coat hanger awaiting within the closet. He heard muffled sounds from the kitchen and stalked forward slowly. He pressed against the wall, listening to the sobbing voice within.

“I... I c-cant let him d-do this... I-it’s all m-m-my f-fault...”

Kai suddenly felt fear clench him as he continued to listen. His heart was suddenly thundering loudly in his ear and he held his breath, waiting and listening... listening and waiting... but for what? He heard it.

A knife, scraping across the metal sharpener.

“I c-cant go on... I c-cant let h-him d-do it... K-Kai... I’m sorry...”

He jumped out from behind the wall, darting into the kitchen. He saw the flash of blue eyes and a heard the definite gasp. His heart wrenched as he collided with the redhead, their bodies falling together, sprawling across the linoleum floor. The knife clattered across the floor, sliding under the fridge as Kai gripped two slender wrists and forced them above the shaking body.

“K-Kai...”

“What do you think your doing?” Kai snarled, the fear in this throat thickening and his voice wavered. “What were you thinking, Tala?”

“I CAN’T LET YOU DO IT, KAI,” Tala roared, sobbing madly now. “I know what your going to do and I wont let you.”

“By fucking killing yourself,” Kai barked back, darkness enveloping his crimson eyes.

“YES,” Tala cried out.

“Tala...” Kai whispered, pulling the redhead to his body and holding him.

The embrace was returned, the body shaking in his own. He bit his lip as tears filled his black eyes and slid down his cheeks. He buried his face into the warm pounding neck and breathed in the all-to-familiar scent. He pulled back, cupping the redheads face in his hands and placing a gentle kiss to his forehead.

“Tala, I love you, you know that,” Kai whispered. “I wont lose you, do you understand?”

“I... I...”

“Do you understand?”

“Yes...”

“We may not be together anymore, Tala... but were best friends. I wont lose you, not now not ever. We promised each other we’d die in each others arms and I’m keeping you too that promise,” Kai whispered, tucking a tendril of red hair behind on pale ear.

“You remember that....” Tala whispered.

“Of course I do,” Kai laughed lightly.

“I’m so sorry, Kai,” Tala whimpered.

“Well win your trial, Tala,” Kai said, smiling his softest of smile as he pulled the redhead into another tight embrace, leaning back against the fridge as he allowed the other to cry, his own tears running silently down his cheeks as he added to himself only, ‘I promise.’

**~**~**~**~**~**

A/N: I... am so... EVIL!!! HAHAHAHA....*coughs up hairball* well, that was weird. So did you like the ending??? I loved it, though it really strung you people for a loop. Their next “private” lesson I will have in the next chapter, so be prepared... things might get steamy. I decided to add the Miguel/Max thing in, but not completely. Next time I will though, along with a Claud/Tyson and maybe... something more. I hope I’m not making the characters seem OOC, I wouldn’t want that, now would I? If I am, please tell me and I shall do what I can to fix it. Thank you and remember to R&R