Silhouette

A/N: Yay, less then a week! This is to make up for the long delay last week, as well as for all my lovely reviews.

Reviewers!

Mad March - Good, it's supposed to give you an eye twitch. I'd be sorely disappointed if you guys weren't beginning to catch on.

... But more of that later. Next!

Snickers Supreme - What can I say? I'm a sadist. I make my readers suffer in hopes they'll come back for more.

Rin-chans Flower - Thank you very much. I'm glad so many people are enjoying this story, it really warms my heart.

lunatic_vn - xD Good. Again, it's supposed to creep you out. That's what I was aiming for. Restrictor is going to have no qualms about getting to Weiss through Nero.

... But more on that later. Next!

mazda019 - Thanks. A lot of the characterization I pull from the Online Mode, so I was afraid people wouldn't see where I was coming from with some of these parts. 'Specially when it came to Weiss. ^_^ But if you're saying I'm doing a good job, then I guess I don't have to worry...

Now, enough with the reviews... onward to the story!!

--

Restrictor glared at the unconscious forms surrounding him, dissatisfied with the way events were shaping up to be. Rosso still leaped at every chance to get back at him, and since the appearance of Nero, Weiss had been equally as defiant. Restrictor let out a snort, knowing that Weiss had never been truly tamed. Still, begrudgingly or not, he had done what he was told for fear for his own life. Now it appeared as though he was finding something more valuable than his own hide.

“Extraordinary…”

Restrictor didn’t even bother to acknowledge Hojo, who had followed him into the sparring room now that all signs of danger were passed. Not to mention, he found these events in no way extraordinary. In fact, he found them anything but.

“Simply marvelous I tell you. To think they have grown so fond of each other in such a short period of time…”

Restrictor gritted his teeth, knowing that this “marvelous” thing was sure to bring only more trouble in the future.

“Sir…”

“My dear Restrictor, spare me the lecture. I know that you see their alliance as a possible threat, but surely you are more powerful then they will ever be,” Hojo silenced, cutting Restrictor off before he could finish speaking.

Restrictor took the cue and stopped talking, though inside he was simmering. Individually he was more then a match for any of the Tsviets. It’s not that that was worrying him. Weiss and Nero would be dangerous together, and if they managed to enlist the help of the others, then they had a slim chance of succeeding.

However, there was no point in breaching the subject now, seeing as Hojo was far too occupied with his current mindset to even consider the possibility of some sort of military overthrow.

“Hmph, it seems as though they all need some medical attention. Honestly Restrictor, you should be a bit more carefully, especially with Weiss. He is truly remarkable, a pure being brought forth by a corrupt substance. I can’t risk you damaging him…” Hojo continued to muse.

Restrictor refrained from growling, somewhat marveling at how truly dense Hojo could be. So wrapped up in his experiments, he refused to acknowledge the threat they might actually posses.

“Rosso has survived worse, though I fear for her state of mind after experiencing Nero’s powers. We’ll have to keep a closer eye on her, make sure she still retains some of her sanity…” Hojo continued, inspecting his Tsviets one by one.

“As for Nero… hmph, it looks like Scarlet did a little too well. Those markings on his body… I’ll want to examine them further…”

Hojo watched as the wisps of darkness continued to swim and swirl around Nero, flickering over the torn and beaten body.

“I want you to take all of them to the Sickbay 3 for treatment. I intend on trying Weiss against the Metamorphose Experiment within the next few days, so make sure he is in fighting condition,” he finished, turning to leave Restrictor with his job.

“Together?” Restrictor questioned, hoping that he had heard Hojo incorrectly, and that the Tsviets would be kept separated as usual.

“Yes, together. Really Restrictor, do I need to repeat myself? I want them together, because as of now I cannot spare the time to go searching throughout all of Deepground when I wish to check up on them. You have your orders, now MOVE!” Hojo seethed, his patience as legendarily short as Restrictor’s.

Restrictor frowned behind his helm, but made no comment. He had his orders, and he was to obey.

--

“Restrain him!”

Weiss flinched, the sounds of screams and objects breaking lifting him from blissful unconsciousness. The sounds were strangely muffled, and Weiss wasn’t sure if it was because of wherever he was, or if it was caused by the pounding of his head…

“Sir, he’s already…!”

A shattered scream cut off whatever was left to be said. Weiss groaned, eyes flickering open to a sea of shifting green, blurring whatever was happening in the room beyond. Frowning, Weiss moved closer to the glass, pressing his forehead against the cool surface in order to see better into the room.

He was in a sickbay, which didn’t surprise him if his memory was correct. He vaguely remembered a short standoff between him and Restrictor, which probably counted for his painful headache. What surprised him was the ongoing battle outside of his Mako Bath. He made out the forms of faceless scientist as they scurried past, all in a great hurry to get away from whatever had been unleashed.

“Where is Restrictor?!”

Weiss’s frown deepened. If they wanted Restrictor, then they were probably dealing with a Tsviet. And they thought he was unruly. From what he had gathered about Rosso, she was as wild as they came. As for Nero… his life of imprisonment and restraint was his epithet of uncontrollable power. And it wouldn’t surprise Weiss at all if there were other Tsviets floating around this place that he didn’t know about. The possibilities were truly endless in this place. Weiss never knew exactly who or what he would come across next.

Another scream shook Weiss from his thoughts as he still tried to see what was going on. The room was decidedly emptier now; most of its occupants having fled from whoever it was attacking them. Gazing around, Weiss saw one last scientist cowering against a wall, a small hand gun shakily aimed at a twisting form of shadows. Nero it is…

A shot was fired, and Weiss froze as he watched Nero suddenly stumble backwards, one hand reaching up to press against a wounded left shoulder, his attack halted by the sudden pain tearing through his shoulder. As another shot was fired, this one going wide, but Weiss had enough, realizing that whoever that incompetent doctor was he was probably going to end up killing Nero. Backing up in the very limited space that canister gave him, he surged forward, intent on breaking the glass and getting to Nero before he was murdered by that incompetent man.

His shoulder impacted against the reinforced glass of his containment, cracking slightly under the pressure. The Mako Baths here were constructed to keep unruly patients in, but Weiss’s growing strength and prowess were proving superior. Another slam of his body against the clear pane and the cracks widened, Mako leaking out through the circular shatter marks.

His actions had momentarily distracted Nero, whose head turned in his direction. It was a foolish decision on his part, seeing as the scientist took this as another opportunity to fire a third shot at Nero, this one impacting him on the other shoulder. Weiss wasn’t sure if these shots were planned or just a result of bad aim, but it spun Nero partly around before he dropped to the floor, his face grimacing in pain.

One last slam of his body and the glass shattered, and Weiss opted to ignore the shards of glass that tore at his body as he escaped his confinement, leaping out of the canister to run over to Nero.

Nero was kneeling on the floor, his left arm hanging loosely at his side, the other making short painful movements to repress itself against the worse of the two wounds. He wasn’t paying the man who shot him any attention, too preoccupied over his own injuries to really care. Through the pain he looked mildly surprised, as though he wasn’t quite sure where the injuries had come from. Weiss guessed he had never been shot at before. The doctors probably never had to resort to such measures, always keeping Nero firmly restrained so he wouldn’t fight back.

Weiss practically skidded to a halt, dropping to his knees to press his own hand against the neglected other shoulder, trying to halt some of the blood flow. Nero turned to him, blinking in surprise to see him kneeling next to him, before giving him a shaky smile through his pain. Weiss felt himself giving a faint smile back, just because it felt nice to see him smile…

“W-Weiss… get… get back!”

Weiss turned his attention towards the lone scientist that was still pressed against a wall, body and voice shaking with fear. Weiss scowled, resisting the urge to get up and snap the man’s neck.

“He’s already … he…. killed three others! He’s dangerous!”

Weiss scowl deepened, and this time he actually did stand up, prowling towards the man that had shot at his little brother.

“He’s no more dangerous then what you made him to be! Right now he’s a scared little boy who was probably only trying to protect himself!” Weiss growled, reaching out to actually grasp the man’s neck, noticing a bit belatedly that it was covered with Nero’s blood. If anything this only fueled his rage, causing Weiss to slam the body against the wall, applying more pressure to the already bruised windpipes.

“Em-Emperor…”

“Get out,” Weiss snapped, throwing the man to the ground, wanting him out of his sight before he did kill him. He was sorely tempted to do it, but he figured they were all going to get into enough trouble as it is. Sparing this one man’s life might help to deviate some of that punishment.

The man didn’t even look back as he scampered to his feet before rushing towards the door, his gun clattering to the ground forgotten.

Weiss sighed, suddenly feeling extremely tired. His life had gotten infinitely more complex since Nero had appeared. Not that he minded for the most part. It was nice to have someone look to him for love and support as it was to give it. Love… is that what he felt for Nero? He desired the boy; his sordid nights alone were proof enough of that. But love? Walking back over to Nero he kneeled back down, this time in front of the boy so he could check the two wounds together. The one on the right shoulder wasn’t bad, the bullet merely grazing the outside of his arm. It was bleeding, but the blood was already beginning to coagulate, so Weiss wasn’t too worried. The other bullet however had imbedded itself deep into Nero’s left shoulder, leaving the entire arm immobile. Cursing softly under his breath, Weiss looked around for something he could possible use as a tourniquet. He was in a sickbay, it shouldn’t be too hard to find a makeshift press to halt some of the bleeding, or perhaps even a Potion or a Cure materia. However, as he moved to go find something, Nero’s hand dropped from his shoulder to grasp Weiss’s wrist, preventing him from moving.

“Nero, I need…” Nero shook his head decidedly no. Weiss opened his mouth but Nero silenced him by tugging on his arm, again shaking his head firmly no. Frowning Weiss relented, closing his mouth and relaxing slightly to show Nero that he wasn’t going to leave him. Releasing Weiss’s hand once he was sure he wasn’t going to leave, Nero furrowed his brow in concentration as he pulled his darkness together. Weiss watched in fascination as Nero’s darkness seemed to swirl and condense on his outstretched palm, shifting and swirling in a display of control that surprised Weiss. It looked like Nero had a better grasp of his powers then he was willing to let on. It probably swirled around his form naturally, not uncontrollably. Weiss noted the black markings that still adorned Nero’s chest and arms, knowing that it was probably more dangerous for all of them if he was forced to control it completely.

Weiss continued to watch, surprised to see that the darkness was taking a definite spherical shape that fit in the palm of Nero’s hand, the edges taking on a shiny luster as though made out of glass. Nero continued to work at it, a light sheen of sweat covering his body from the exertion it was causing. This, combined with the blood loss, was probably a very bad thing for his little brother.

“Nero…” Weiss warned, but Nero still gave a shaky no, the fingers on his good hand flexing to hold the small orb. Hesitating, as though a bit unsure of himself, he offered the little sphere to Weiss motioning that he wished for him to take it. Weiss frowned, confused, but reached out to take the small gift from Nero.

It was cold. Weiss nearly dropped the present, not expecting the sudden chill that ran through his finger tips. To his further surprise, the tips of his own fingers began to glow with his own pure light, fighting back the coolness of the sphere. Weiss held it, lifting it up to his eyes to better examine it, watching the way the darkness twisted and turned within something that resembled glass.

Materia.

It was the only explanation that came to Weiss’s mind. It was as though Nero had created a small little orb of his power, similar to what happened with the creation of Materia. Weiss found himself grinning, watching the way the light bounced off the darkness, and how he was able to hold it all in his hand.

“It’s beautiful…” Weiss murmured. Nero gave a happy, albeit weak smile, before leaning forward to rest his head against Weiss’s chest. Weiss cursed under his breath, reaching out to wrap his free arm around the lithe waist.

“Little one, I tried to warn you…” Weiss admonished gently, leaning forward to whisper the words into Nero’s hair. It was a stupid move on his part, because his nose was filled with Nero’s scent, the scent of darkness and silence, a not surprisingly cool scent that Weiss couldn’t exactly describe. It was only ruined slightly by the scent of blood that lingered over the poor boy. He suddenly became too aware of Nero, of his body resting against his, the soft puff of his breath against his chest, the slight warmth his body gave off. Weiss felt himself shiver slightly, wishing vehemently that he would at least get one chance to be with Nero when he wasn’t bleeding or hurt or scared.

Then what? a voice tempted him from the back of his head, but Weiss refused to acknowledge, knowing exactly what he wanted to do. It felt like an eternity, but surely it was only a few minutes that they were huddled together, before the swoosh of a door opening and the tell tale signs of approaching footsteps halted their brief time together. Weiss didn’t even bother to look up, only moving his arm so the hand holding the small Materia would be hidden from view.

“Really Restrictor, we have to stop meeting like this…” Weiss said, still clutching Nero to his chest. Restrictor let out a soft “hnn” of laughter, staring down with contempt at his two Tsviets.

“I agree, Weiss. It’s becoming a terrible nuisance, getting you all patched up only to have you injure yourself due to Nero’s stupidity,” Restrictor replied, watching the way Nero’s shoulders stiffened with the comment.

“Nero’s stupidity? It’s not my fault that when I awoke it was to the sound of gun shots,” Weiss shot back, trying hard not to fall for Restrictor’s bait. He was trying to make Weiss angry, trying to find a reason to stomp the rebelliousness out of him.

“I’m sure that happened a while after Nero devoured three of the lab assistants in an attempt to break free, or more likely, get to you…” Restrictor calmly replied, frowning as Weiss let out a bitter laugh.

“I’m sure they deserved that too. They probably beat and provoked Nero into a fight first…” was Weiss’s harsh reply, not buying into the idea that Nero was the guilty one. He knew from his own past that if anything, Nero was the victim here.

“Perhaps, but I care little for what they do. The Tsviets are my jurisdiction, and as far as I’m concerned, Nero is the one at fault here,” Restrictor said smugly, watching the way Weiss’s eyes narrowed in anger, his lips curling back in a silent growl.

“Do you wish test my authority?” Restrictor questioned, not bothering to hide his sadistic amusement. This time Weiss actually did growl, the muscles on his arms and torso tightening as though he was mere seconds away from leaping at Restrictor. If Restrictor wanted to pick a fight with Weiss, he’d be more then happy to give him one.

Nero sensed the sudden tenseness, and lifted his head wearily, knowing that it would only result in Weiss’s defeat if he challenged Restrictor over this matter. He knew what he had done and expected the punishment for it. It was nothing new to him. Slowly he reached out with his still mobile arm, resting it against Weiss’s chest in an effort to calm him. Weiss’s attention snapped back to his little brother, somehow knowing what he meant, though he didn’t like it at all.

“I want let him hurt you…” Weiss whispered defensively, wanting Nero to understand why he would willingly fight Restrictor. Nero gave him a wry smile, knowing that they both knew no matter what Weiss did; Restrictor would find some reason to harm them both.

Go back, he wanted to say. It’s alright, I’ll survive this… the words burned in his heart, but he couldn’t voice them, too used to relying on his silence as his only means of defiance. So instead he pleaded with his eyes, wishing with all his heart that Weiss would stop being brave and rebellious because of him. Weiss turned his gaze to the side, before glaring back at Restrictor, torn between doing what he wanted, and what Nero wanted him to do instead.

“Go back to your throne, Emperor,” Restrictor mocked, knowing that as long as he was around, Weiss held no true power. “I will deal with your little Nero accordingly.” Weiss still froze, every nerve in his body telling him to stay and to fight, but the pleading look in Nero’s eyes and the soft touch on his chest telling him to go.

He slowly stood up, carefully releasing Nero and also mindful to keep the cool orb that was still grasped in his hand hidden, his eyes glaring bloody murder at Restrictor. Silently he stepped back, still not quite sure what he was going to do.

“This is your last warning Weiss. Leave us, or you will regret it.” It wasn’t an empty threat. Weiss knew that if he stayed he’d be defeated brutally by Restrictor, and that Nero would still suffer for whatever mayhem he caused in the sickbay. He didn’t want to, Holy knows he wanted nothing more to stay and to fight, but in doing so he’d be causing Nero even more pain.

Jaw set, eyes narrowed in fierce defiance, he made rigid steps towards Restrictor, his one hand gripping the Materia like orb so hard behind his back he was surprised the little ball of darkness hadn’t shattered.

Straight-laced, he continued his walk until he was standing in front of Restrictor, not bothering to hide the look of absolute loathing he had for the man that hid behind a black metal mask. He knew what Restrictor wanted. He wanted Weiss to fight, to contest his power, so he could beat him bloody and then have Weiss watch while he did the same for Nero.

“So be it, Restrictor,” Weiss spat, before stalking out of the sickbay. He didn’t bother to look back, didn’t want to see the triumph that Restrictor would still be able to show through his helm, didn’t want to see Nero’s eyes braced for his oncoming torture. His only comfort was the small orb that will was grasped securely in his hand.

--

It really is a pretty thing… Weiss found himself musing, turning the little Materia in his hand.

G-Substance… the stagnant Lifestream. An opposing force to the living Lifeforce from which all things are born… Most things, Weiss found himself mentally correcting himself. Most things were born from the living Lifestream. Not him…Not Nero…

Materia… the power born from the Lifestream. Would this make it a form of anti-Materia? It looked like Materia, but did it have any power…?

A pure being brought forth by a corrupt substance… With Nero to act as his counterforce. The darkness to his light. It was rather poetic, if you thought about it.

Nero… beautiful, little Nero… who wielded the power of oblivion brought forth by the G-Substance… Weiss shifted in his throne, grunting at the dull pain emitting from his shoulder. He had ignored it for the most part, the heavy bruising and the cuts caused by the shattered glass. His wound healed remarkably fast naturally; still, his shoulder was going to ache for a day or two. Probably because he had to dig out a few glass shards with his bare hands.

Meanwhile, Nero gets to suffer at the hands of Restrictor… don’t be such a coward…

Weiss found himself frowning, knowing it to be true. This was nothing in all reality. He had suffered far worse than a beaten up shoulder. It didn’t help knowing that somewhere, Nero was probably suffering as well…

He didn’t know how long he sat there, in the silence of his throne room, musing in his own thoughts, rolling the tiny orb back and forth between his fingers, watching the way the darkness flickered and twisted inside. It was exactly the way the darkness danced around Nero, twirling and twisting and… expanding?

Weiss blinked, not sure if the sphere was actually growing in his hand or not. However, as the darkness seemed to break its glassy confines, flickering and growing, Weiss dropped the no longer small orb, watching it clink to the ground before rolling to a stop several feet in front of him.

He continued to stare, fascinated as the darkness expanded, swearing that he could see something moving inside of it. Slowly the shadows rose, growing taller and taller until something; or rather… someone stepped out of it.

Weiss found himself blinking dumbly at the form of Nero, who had somehow worked his way into his throne room.[*] Nero glanced around, taking in the large cavern, eyes settling on the enormous wolf’s head that adorned the area above the actual throne, before his eyes finally rested on Weiss.

Nero’s power… the ability to pull things in and out of his void…

Weiss smirked, standing up to approach the boy who was still standing there, watching him with unwavering eyes. His old uniform had been completely discarded, and now he was in a standard Deepground Soldier uniform. Weiss was happy to see the darkness that shrouded his form from view.

“Clever boy…” He couldn’t help but comment, realizing that it was a remarkably intelligent thing to do. By placing a bit of his darkness in Weiss’s hands, and then having him transport it to the throne room, it served as a gateway for Nero to get to Weiss.

Nero’s face broke into a proud smile, glad that his plan had worked. He had been mulling the idea over in his head for some time, trying to work out a way that he could get his darkness to wherever Weiss stayed when he wasn’t being used in his experiments. While he was in his restricting uniform it was impossible, but seeing as Rosso was… kind enough to release him, he wasted no time in determining the exact location of his beloved Weiss.

Weiss finished his approach, reaching out with one hand to gently stroke the side of Nero’s face, delighting in the way the boy turned into the touch. However, it also revealed the heavy bruising along the check on the opposite side of the face, as well as the busted lower lip. Weiss found himself frowning, noticing that Nero also seemed to be favoring one leg slightly, and his left arm looked rather stiff as though it was still injured.

“Damn them…” he muttered, gently taking one of Nero’s arms and pulling him back towards his throne. Nero’s soft hiss of pain and the limp in his step confirmed Weiss’s assumption that whatever Restrictor had done with him, he hadn’t bothered to finish with the clean up work. Cursing himself mentally, Weiss stopped, turning to face Nero again, his face worried as he looked at the pained look on Nero’s face.

“Can you make it?” he questioned softly, wanting to spare Nero from any further pain. Nero blinked at Weiss, before nodding his head confidently; stepping forward to show Weiss that he was quite capable of walking on his own. Only he wasn’t, and as pain shot up his legs he stumbled, pitching forward into Weiss’s arms that had reached out to grab him.

He looked sheepishly at Weiss, but made no further effort to move on his own. It was almost comical, the way Nero was looking at him, and Weiss even felt the corners of his mouth twitch in a vain effort to hide a smile.

“Here, I got you…” he whispered to Nero, carefully lifting the boy into his arms. Nero’s eyes went wide, his arms instantly wrapping tightly around Weiss’s neck, startled at being so easily lifted and pressed against the much larger chest. He also found himself blushing for some reason, the comforting proximity of Weiss causing butterflies in his stomach. It was a nice feeling though, one that left him wanting for more, so he didn’t question it, only moved to snuggle his face into the crook of Weiss’s neck.

It was Weiss’s turn to flinch, biting his lip to stop himself from making some happy lovesick noise. He was really tempted to.

Careful not to jar the injured body, Weiss made his way back over to his throne, carefully sitting back down; always mindful of the smaller form nestled in his arm. Even after they were settled, Nero made no attempt to move, rather preferring to be curled up against Weiss’s warm body, much to Weiss’s displeasure. Or pleasure… a voice in the back of his mind told him, even though Weiss was vainly trying to ignore the fact that it did feel very nice to have Nero wrapped in his arms, and for once mostly intact.

“Found a way to get around Restrictor huh? You know he’s going to be livid if he discovers you’re missing…” Weiss finally said, breaking the soft silence that had fallen over the two. Nero made no comment, though Weiss wasn’t really expecting him too, only giving Weiss a very satisfied smile. Weiss quirked an eyebrow, before laughing softly at his little brother.

“Figured a way around that too, huh?” he said, still chuckling at Nero’s creativity. He was curious on exactly how Nero had done it, but seeing as Nero had apparently never spoken a word to anyone, he doubt questioning him would do any good.

“They fix up your shoulder?” Weiss continued to question, just loving how unnatural this whole situation was. No fighting, no blood, no Restrictor, just a quiet conversation between him and Nero. He relished it.

Nero lifted his head, before giving a half shrug, which Weiss interrupted as a “sort of”, knowing that Restrictor purposely left some of his wounds unhealed.

“He can be a bastard like that sometimes. Well, all the times really. He’s been here as long as I can remember, or at least someone like him, always watching and waiting for me to step one toe out of line so he can reshow me my place…” Weiss began, not really caring what he was saying, just enjoying the fact that Nero was there, and was hearing him, even if he wasn’t exactly listening.

“It was worse when I was a kid, ‘cause I couldn’t fight back He was brutal then, or perhaps he’s just the same, and I’ve just learned to tolerate it more. He was careful though, always sure to patch me be back up perfectly as not to ruin my ‘immaculateness…’” he continued, telling Nero about some of his younger days and memories, the games he used to create for himself in his days or weeks of isolation, some of the experiments he had gone through, the battles he had won. He wasn’t quite sure how long he spoke for, it was babble really, just knowing somehow that Nero liked listening to him, liked hearing the sound of his voice and the closeness of his body.

Eventually he stopped, glancing down at the eternally silent figure in his arms. He couldn’t help but give a slight start, seeing Nero’s eyes closed and his breaths coming in deep steady breaths, his body completely relaxed against Weiss. Weiss felt something like a pain in his chest, a pulling of his heartstrings as he watched Nero sleep soundly in his arms, occasionally making tiny, sleepy movements to maneuver himself in a more comfortable position. Weiss discovered he was smiling without meaning to, just incredibly happy to see some peace on Nero’s still bruised face.

The rational part of his mind thought the whole situation was silly and somewhat corny, but he ignored that for now, focusing rather on Nero’s steady heartbeats against his chest, and even the more somber dance of his darkness around him, not as agitated as it usually seemed in his waking state.

Closing his eyes, Weiss felt himself relaxing as well, snuggling Nero more firmly against his chest. He missed the small smile that spread across Nero’s face as the two of them drifted off to sleep together.

--

It was different this time. What had once been pale pure skin was now adorned with marks of darkness, stripping over his flesh in an exotic pattern that Weiss was dying to trace.

First he ran his fingers over them, loving the soft trembles and sighs it brought forth from his beautiful partner, the way the head tossed back and forth in abandon. Next, he followed with soft kisses, tracing every inch of those black streaks, nuzzling the flesh with his face and just inhaling the scent of darkness and the scent of sex. Finally, it was his tongue, licking and lapping at the sweat covered flesh, the salty tang only adding to his natural flavor of shadows and moonlight.

By now Nero was all but lost in pleasure; his moans and whimpers no longer coherent words, just an infinite stream of drawn out pleasure, his pale blue lips open wide and panting. Weiss decided to capture them next, sucking and nibbling at the soft, pliable flesh, needing to feel the way Nero arched up beneath him, the way his arousal pressed firmly against his own, causing the kiss to end prematurely as both men were forced to part their lips in order to groan their desire.

“… Need You…” were the softly panted words that were whispered in the shell of his ear, causing Weiss to moan even louder, body pressing readily against the one beneath, vainly trying to hold onto the sound of that voice. It slipped through Weiss’s mind like shadows, and he found himself unable to remember the exact sound, or even if he had heard anything, but knowing without a doubt it’s what Nero wanted.

And Weiss was more then ready to comply. Nestled between those beautiful legs that he was forced to nudge apart, he spread that body for him to claim. Weiss felt his lips curl back into a predatory smile, feeling an almost animalist need to conquer his younger brother in the most primal of ways.

His hand trailed down the soft skin of his abdomen, torn between teasing touches and his own driving need to consume the delicious body. He chose the latter, opting to reach between those thighs to the firm roundness of Nero’s ass, grinning as Nero automatically lifted his hips, making soft mewls as Weiss massaged the flesh, fingers dancing along the cleft to the concealed puckered hole between.

Oh, how he wanted it. He knew the heat and tightness that body could hold, knew exactly how to touch and to play with the moldable form beneath him, only to make him cry out in pleasure. It was so very tempting, so very inviting, and Weiss felt his control shatter as he moved to prep Nero’s lithe body for what was surely to come…

--

Weiss awoke with a start, eyes wide and body gasping for breath, slightly dazed and disoriented in the wake of his secret dreams. He groggily pulled his thoughts together, growing terribly used to waking like this, only wishing he hadn’t as he saw Nero’s face anxiously watching him, body straddling Weiss’s thighs in order to look at Weiss clearly.

And then it hit him, the pounding desire that nearly overwhelmed his senses, body screaming for satisfaction that was positioned so unknowingly on his lap. Weiss felt his vision go white with lust, and he had forcefully keep himself from pouncing the unaware boy on his lap, slamming him into the ground and satisfying his carnal desires.

No!

He felt his hands curl into fists, body tensing with the visible effort to control his emotions. Nero’s face only became more worried, not knowing the reason behind Weiss’s strange actions. He shifted forward, and Weiss was forced to close his eyes, his breath inhaled in a stuttering breath as Nero moved on his lap, rubbing against his hard arousal.

Nero froze, not sure of what to do. Weiss felt himself blushing, realizing that this was by far the worse situation he ever found himself in. His eyes fluttered open, and he offered Nero a small smile, noting both the fear and curiosity in his eyes.

“It’s… ok. I’m alright…” Weiss mumbled, blush growing more heated as Nero gave him a skeptical look. This only seemed to spark Nero’s interest more, as he cautiously reached up to trace his fingers against Weiss’s inflamed checks. The touch was almost too much, and Weiss found himself fighting vigilantly to keep his control.

He’s still a boy, he doesn’t know what he’s doing… Weiss kept telling himself over and over, but the soft blush that was now covering Nero’s checks and the extremely curious look in his eyes was quickly dispelling that thought. He moved again, just the tiniest of stirs against Weiss, but it was enough for Weiss to buck his hips slightly, and he knew without a doubt that Nero must’ve felt the hard flesh concealed by his pants. He had to of, judging by Nero’s own blush and the way he bashfully lowered his gaze, teeth jutting out to nibble on his bottom lip.

“I…” Weiss found himself trying to explain, but far too embarrassed and aroused to get past that single stuttered word. It was so complicated, torn between his near need to take Nero as his own, and the knowledge that he was only 15 and he was his brother…

Nero lifted his eyes, still blushing and body decidedly still, unsure about his next course of action. He found himself strangely excited by this whole situation, it stirring things in the lowest regions of his stomach that he had never felt before. But he was scared; scared of what it meant and the way Weiss was acting.

Luckily, both of them were spared the decision of what to do, as Nero’s head suddenly turned to the side, head tilted as though he was trying to hear something. Brow furrowing, he turned back to Weiss, all strange thoughts disappearing as he was secretly told it was time to leave.

Licking his lips, Nero carefully reached up to lay a single stroke through Weiss’s hair, before he carefully removed himself from Weiss’s lap, slowly backing away from the throne. Weiss sat up straighter, eyebrows knitting in confusion as Nero continued to back away, and he realized belatedly the way the shadows were curling around his form again.

Weiss clambered to his feet, reaching out with a strangled “Nero!” in hopes of pausing the boy for just a second, wishing now that he had taken the time to explain, or at least say goodbye, but he was already gone, leaving the small orb behind in his place.

Weiss stood there, staring at where Nero had been just moments before. He slowly lowered his arm, trying to take deep steadying breaths to calm himself, only to fail miserably at his attempt gain some sort of control over his raging emotions.

“FUCK!”

Weiss turned around and in a childish display of rage kicked the bottom of his throne, ignoring the pain that shot up his leg as he slouched back down in the chair with a huff.

God damn it all.

--

Needless to say a few hours of isolation did nothing to calm Weiss’s nerves. He was still in a decidedly foul mood when he was called to the training rooms, his mouth set in a grim line as his eyes shot daggers at anyone that so much as dared to look at him.

It was Restrictor that awaited him, and Restrictor alone. This did nothing to improve Weiss’s mood, remembering the bruised face of Nero from earlier. He was walking a thin line between remaining in control and doing something decidedly stupid, and for once in his life he kept his mouth shut, not in the mood to try and provoke Restrictor. Besides, there was something incredibly smug about the way Restrictor was standing, if that was even possible.

The two of them stood in silence, Weiss glaring at Restrictor who stared stoically back at him, and Weiss was pretty sure by now there was a vein pulsing in his forehead.

“Where’s Hojo?” he finally snapped, noticing the sudden disappearance of the sick scientist. Restrictor’s cold laugh did nothing to settle his already jarred nerves, and Weiss found himself grinding his teeth in agitation.

“Gone, perhaps for good. It seemed there was a bit of an incident with his other specimen Sephiroth somewhere in Nibelheim. It does not appear that he’ll be returning anytime soon,” Restrictor said. And Weiss didn’t think it was possible that his mood could get any fouler.

“So you’re in charge,” he said, his voice deadly low and dangerous. Restrictor smirked behind his helm, closing the gap that remained between him and Weiss.

“Yes, little Emperor. Which means that you are now under my orders directly. You, and all of Deepground, now answer solely to me,” Restrictor gloated, loving the increased tenseness of Weiss. Weiss refused to comment, afraid that if he opened his mouth the only sound that would come back would be an animalistic howl of absolutely furry.

Chuckling as though it was all a great a joke, Restrictor strode across the room to the door that Weiss had entered from.

“Your opponent today is another Tsviet, who goes by the name of Azul. He has recently completed a successful metamorphose trial, and I’ve been waiting for an opportunity to test it out,” were Restrictor’s parting words before he exited the room. Weiss rolled his eyes, though he was somewhat excited at the prospect of having a fight to help him blow of some steam. To say that he was anxious was a huge understatement. He had never felt so on edge.

Weiss was slightly surprised when instead of entering through a regular door, his opponent had to enter through a sealed gate, the thundering footsteps and hulking form was an obvious reason why.

Azul was massive. He was well over nine feet tall, and every inch of him was covered with muscles that were nothing sort of colossal. Weiss quirked an eyebrow, a bit overcome by the man’s appearance. He was human… for the most part. Albeit, a human with much larger proportion sizes. Needless to say, Weiss was a bit surprised.

Weiss turned instead to his face, taking note of the even more warped appearance. His face had lost much of his human qualities, black eyes with glowing yellow irises, fanged teeth and elongated ears. All of this was accented by glowing blue lines that ran over his face. Weiss was truly at a lost for words as the man lumbered into the room.

“So… this is my opponent for today,” the man, beast… Azul said his words slow and decisive. Weiss found himself smirking, all thoughts drifting out of his head as he prepared himself for the battle, surprised but not afraid of his massive form.

“Strange…” he continued, looking Weiss up and down with his eerie eyes. “I have not met a Tsviet of your standing before. Are you the one they call the Immaculate Emperor?” he questioned. Weiss narrowed his eyes, a cruel smile flitting across his figure.

“You could say that,” Weiss replied, still grinning at his opponent. Azul smirked back in reply, hands curling into massive fists as he prepared to slam into his opponent.

“Good. This should make this match interesting indeed!” He roared, launching himself forward.

Too slow… Weiss noted mentally, having ample time to move out of the way if he desired. Azul would be good in close quarters or if he had the power of surprise, but in wide open spaces he stood no match against Weiss.

However, Weiss did not move away from the lumbering approach, and didn’t even flinch as the massive limb was pulled back. Azul let out another roar, a fist the size of Weiss’s torso slamming into his body, sending Weiss flying backwards. His body impacted the far wall with bone crushing strength, the steel actually buckling beneath the force of the impact.

“Is that all, Emperor? Not even going to fight?” Azul taunted, watching as Weiss’s body dropped to the floor. However, he was surprised when the body didn’t land in a tangled heap, instead a very conscious and well Weiss landed in a crouch, before slowly straightening back up.

“I don’t have to fight the likes of you,” Weiss sneered back, arching his back in order to stretch some of the muscles, listening to the satisfactory cracks as he popped a few of the joints between his vertebrae.

“It’ll take much more than brute strength to defeat someone like me,” Weiss finished, smirking at the astonished look on Azul’s face. “Maybe you should try some of this!”

Weiss moved in a flash of white, disappearing from Azul’s sight only to appear right in front of him, arm cocked back to land a decisive blow on Azul’s chest, sending the much larger man sprawling backwards on the ground. Weiss’s strength didn’t lay in speed alone. He was also the strongest of all the Tsviets. He knew he was everything they were and more.

“Pity, I was expecting to have some sort of contest today…” Weiss taunted, walking over to Azul, who was slowly pulling himself to his feet.

“Strength alone will not earn you victory here,” he continued to mock, watching Azul’s face change from one of shock, to infuriation, to a look of grim satisfaction.

“Oh? Perhaps you want more?” Azul said, a blue glow beginning to emanate from his form. Weiss watched as Azul was surround by the cerulean light only to reappear as a much larger, and much more bestial form.

He had become a behemoth of an animal, with massive claws and horns and teeth that looked like they could rip Weiss apart without even trying. One blow from those deadly appendages and Weiss could easily see himself disemboweled. Smirking, Weiss retook his fighting stance, interested, but still unimpressed.

Letting out a true feral roar that boomed through the enclosure, Behemoth Azul surged forwards once again, stampeding towards the insignificant form of Weiss. Weiss rolled his eyes, seeing that Azul had obviously learned nothing from his first attack.

“I told you already, this won’t work against me!” Weiss called as Azul approached, flitting away in another flash of white light before appearing directly in front of Azul, this time landing a sound kick on the side of his face. Azul’s head snapped to the side at an almost sickening speed, but Weiss was going to be sure to teach him a lesson this time. Darting away faster then the eye could follow, Weiss reappeared on the other side, landing another blow to send the head snapping back. One last attack, a finishing blow to the underside of his chin, and Azul came crashing to the floor, transforming back into his more humanoid of forms. It was over before Weiss even had a chance to begin. It wasn’t even a warm up.

Azul lay there, at the feet of the Emperor, trying to gather his thoughts after an assault that was both faster and stronger then he could imagine. He also felt it was over before he even had a chance. He had greatly underestimated Weiss. He would not make the same mistake again.

“Now, are you going to try that again? Or have you decided to stay down,” Weiss said, glaring down at Azul’s fallen form. Azul made a low groan, using his arms to push him into a crouching position, before slowly making his way to his feet.

“You have proven your prowess, Emperor…” Azul said, inclining his head in a slight bow that held no mockery. Weiss smirked, knowing that he had won yet another Tsviet to his cause.

“Good. We are finished then,” he said, turning on his heel without a backwards glance to his opponent. He was done for today, wanting to go back to his throne room and mull over recent events in peace, but before he could even leave the training center a black gauntleted hand stopped him, grabbing onto his forearm with enough pressure to make Weiss flinch. Weiss was forced to halt, turning his head to stare at Restrictor out of the corner of his eye.

Restrictor merely took this opportunity to study Weiss, looking at him as though he was trying to figure something out. Weiss had no way of knowing this, but the tingling sensation up his spine told him as much. He’d have to be more careful if he truly planned to overthrow this man. Restrictor was no fool. He would not be sidetracked with other projects or experiments. His only domain was Deepground, and he’d be sure to make everyone in it subject to his authority.

Restrictor continued to study Weiss from behind his helm, looking for something he knew had to be there. Something was changing in Weiss, and he didn’t like. He was growing far too aware of his own strengths, and the influence he might have over all of Deepground by being the most celebrated of all the Tsviets.

“Until we meet again, Weiss…” Restrictor whispered, releasing Weiss and nodding his head towards a few of the Officers, wanting them to accompany Weiss back to his throne. They were obviously terrified; the two of them combined no match for Weiss. They were simply to ensure that Weiss indeed went back to his throne room and didn’t try to venture elsewhere. He’d make sure they were in radio contact at all times.

“One would think you don’t trust me Restrictor…” Weiss said, eyeing his two escorts with much disdain. Restrictor let out another “hnn”, turning his back on Weiss and making his way deeper into Deepground.

“Only as much as you trust me…”

--

Weiss relaxed in his throne, toying with Nero’s small orb. He was ashamed of the way his body seemed to betray him in Nero’s presence. He hoped it wasn’t enough to scare the little boy away…

He wasn’t scared… not much anyways. You saw the look in his eyes… he was curious… he wanted to know why you were acting that way…

Weiss couldn’t help but chuckle at these thoughts. He guessed they never thought of “breeding” Nero. He probably had no idea. And Weiss felt himself tempted to teach him.

No, not now… especially not now. Restrictor had taken over Deepground, which meant a tighter leash on all of them. They’d have to be careful…

Weiss lapsed into his usual meditative state, having grown used to spending most of his time in isolation. He spent many years of his life alone in this place, and had learned to make something of all the spare time. It helped to pass the endless hours, to drift into the corners of his own mind, sorting out his thoughts and ideas and dreams. It kept him cool and collected in most situations, or at least made sure he never truly lost his head. He could get angry, maybe even slightly provoked, but Weiss never forgot himself in battle. He always knew exactly what was expected of him.

It was hours later before Weiss was drawn from his semi-consciousness, becoming alert when anything in his domain changed. He was delighted to see that it was the shadow Materia, expanding to show that Nero was on his way. Weiss smiled, waiting calmly for his brother’s arrival.

It was only moments before Nero appeared, looking better then he had yesterday, able to walk with only a slight limp, the bruise on his face already fading. This time he didn’t hesitate, or wait for Weiss to act, but instead moved up to the throne on his own, before curling up in Weiss’s lap like he had done the night before. Weiss said nothing, and offered no resistance, instead welcomed Nero close to him again. He was glad that Nero wasn’t wary after last night. In fact, it seemed like he had forgotten all about it, his body stretching out so his legs hung over one of the throne’s arms, his back leaned up against the other.

Weiss laughed, reaching forward to stroke Nero’s hair, acting as though this entire situation was routine. He didn’t mind it all. It was a break in the monotone life of isolation and fighting. He wasn’t alone, nor was he required to perform any deeds of strength.

“I met another Tsviet today…” Weiss began, filling in Nero the events of today. Of his impression of Azul, and his massive strength and body, though he lacked a bit speed wise. About how it was barely a fight between the two of them, that he had soundly defeated the much larger man without even bothering to warm up. Weiss paused, hesitating, before slowly telling Nero what he had learned about Restrictor.

“He is in charge now… so we have to be careful not to get caught,” Weiss reminded, though Nero didn’t seem to care. He was too preoccupied playing with the ends of Weiss’s hair.

“Hey, are you listening?” Weiss replied, torn between being annoyed or amused with Nero. Nero blinked up at him innocently, before resting his head against Weiss’s shoulder, eyes intent on Weiss’s face. Of course he was listening. He never stopped listening. He just didn’t want to think about Restrictor right now. Every waking moment away from Weiss was filled with thoughts of that man, and how he seemed to haunt his every movement. Let Weiss think he was being silly, he really didn’t mind. It made Weiss smile…

“You really are impossible…” Weiss muttered, relaxing as best he could in a throne with a boy on his lap. Nero laughed with his eyes, raising his hand to continue to play with Weiss’s hair, letting it slide between his fingers before wrapping his hands in, delighting in the smooth, silky feeling of the wild white strands.

Weiss was glad that Nero could be so at ease with him, that there was still an innocent boy that hadn’t lost his heart and soul to his darkness. More importantly, he wasn’t afraid to be near Weiss, despite his… episode this morning. He was glad that Nero seemed to have forgotten all about it.

Little did he know those events had played on Nero’s mind as much as his.

--

[*]If you’ve beaten Dirge of Cerberus, or gotten most of the way through, you’ll know where I’m getting this from, and Nero leaving behind darkness to transport himself someplace…

A/N: :3 Not much to say at this end, only that I hope you enjoyed, and I hope you review. Not that I'm really lacking those, but still, I'm a vain little girl and I like to see that number go up.

Next Chapter:

Weiss teachs Nero a very important lesson.... :3