Author’s Note: Here’s where we begin to see the bonds forming between the two Whispereds…and the beginning of the trouble heading their way…thanks to those reading and reviewing.

Forging Bonds

Meanwhile in a room overlooking the Thames River, Treize Khushrenada studied the memo in front of him. He ignored the man standing at strict attention on the other of his desk. The memo was from Leonard Testarossa, a friend of Treize’s. Friend. Hmm. More like an acquaintance...with mutual benefits. Treize steepled his fingers, a thoughtful frown on his face.

So a new Whispered subject has been found in the Sanc Kingdom. So very interesting...He glanced at the man standing before him. And Lieutenant Varga is going to find out who it is.

“Lieutenant. Please take a seat.”

“I prefer to stand, sir.” Varga’s hazel eyes were flat, with no emotion.

Treize smiled. “Very well.” He looked at the memo again. “You are a very skilled soldier, Varga.” Which I already knew, of course. Varga had been hand-picked by him two years ago, from OZ, to work as a Mithril operative. “Do you take delight in your work?”

“I do as I’m told, sir.”

“Excellent. Mr. Testarossa and I have a new job for you. You’ve worked undercover before, so this shouldn’t be hard for you.” Treize took another look at the memo, though he had the information memorized. “It seems Mithril has something very interesting to Amalgam and OZ. We would like you to find out more about it for us.”

“A new Whispered subject, sir.”

“Ah. So you know. And yes, that is the information we seek. You need to get us that information anyway you can, using all means necessary.”

“With pleasure, sir.”

“Of course.” Treize turned his chair so he could see the Thames from his high-rise office. The river seemed so peaceful, so tame. “Mithril will try to run tests on the new subject. You need to make sure that doesn’t happen. Amalgam and OZ will conduct their own.”

“Understood, sir.”

“The physical condition of the subject isn’t important. We only need its mentality uncorrupted.”

“Yes, sir.”

Treize smiled, but there was no warmth to it. He had given up warmth years ago for the cold hard logic of the Order of the Zodiac, and the Romefeller Foundation. Now the trusted and capable leader of OZ, the trade-off had been worth it, hundreds of times over.

“So let’s review, Lieutenant. You must find out the identity of the new subject. Mithril must not be allowed to conduct tests on it. Use every means possible to bring the subject to us. Are we clear?”

“Crystal, sir.”

Treize clapped his hands and turned to face Varga. “Lorant Varga, you are the ideal man for this job. You are to meet first in Kowloon with Leonard Testarossa, code named Mr. Silver of Amalgam to be briefed then transportation to the Merida base will be waiting, along with all the necessary paperwork. Do not fail us.”

“Failure is never an option, sir.” Varga saluted, spun on his heel, and left.

Treize pushed a button on his phone. “Bethany, darling, get Mr. Testarossa for me. Now.”

In Kowloon Leonard was in his office and just got off the phone with Trieze who informed him of Varga’s impending arrival with nothing more than a brief description of the man and his ETA. So as he waited the leader of Amalgam sat at his computer, pouring over the specs left behind by Guaron. The man was, like all evil geniuses a planner in the fact that he had contingency plans in place in the event of his untimely demise. And as Leonard’s nest of forensic spies had confirmed Guaron’s corpse…at least what had survived the blast…was riddled with splatter slugs from a nine millimeter pistol fired at point blank range. Meaning that he had met his end in a very violent manner…by someone who was an expert at handling a gun. However, almost as if he expected his comeuppance he had made contact by sending a CD with the specs for developing the Lamda Driver. Something Leonard, as an advanced Whispered through his knowledge of the Black Technology already knew but appreciated because the notes included on the CD proved that Guaron had indeed done his homework…

Guaron was an asset to us…he will be missed but it can’t be helped. Even if somebody else beat me to it I wasn’t ever going to let him or his little trained killers get to my Kaname. Besides being very developed as a Whispered she’s everything I want in a woman…so lovely…and so lethal…

He then thought about this new alleged Whispered subject…a female from what he gleaned from his resonance ripples. However the resonance was not the same as others. Unlike others he resonated with he could not openly communicate with this one…which meant one of two things. She either was too weak to be of use…or her abilities were not as developed yet. Either way she needed to be confirmed as an actual Whispered…

My dear little sis Tessa will help me out with that…too bad she’s so loyal to our family’s legacy at Mithril. She could have joined me and together we could perfect the Black Technology and use it…but life is full of disappointments…

Leonard’s woolgathering was interrupted by his intercom. “Mr. Silver…Lieutenant Lorant Varga is here.”

Locking his computer then closing it down he bade, “Send him in.”

The door opened and a tall solid young man strode in, with a brisk manner that broadcast one who was dedicated to pursuing perfection in whichever endeavor he claimed. But as Leonard perused the man known as Lorant Varga he could pick up an almost indiscernible cold-bloodedness that made him instantly on guard. And his wariness was picked up by Alastair 1, the man sized Arm Slave who he had developed and who acted as a bodyguard. The machine crept forward menacingly…

But Lorant eyed the mecha with an amused scorn as if to say go ahead…make my day.

Leonard raised his hand. “Alastair…stand down.”

“As you wish.” The AS backed off and remained in a guarded stance.

Leonard addressed Lorant with an apologetic shrug, “You’ll have to excuse Aalstair…he’s been programmed to act on my impressions. As such he is very sensitive to me.”

Lorant responded with a shrug of his own. “No apology is necessary, sir.”

Leonard nodded and then got right to business. “Lieutenant, as Colonel Khushrenada has informed you of the basic objective of this assignment I will refrain from being redundant….however I do have some additional information that will be germane to the success of your mission.” He reached behind and took up a packet…and handed it to Lorant.

As the unemotional solder glanced at the documents Leonard stated, “That is a copy of the transfer papers sent to Mithril. They’re a paramilitary organization so as a soldier for OZ you should feel right at home.”

“Yes sir.” Lorant read through the documents and then inquired, “Is there anything else?”

Leonard pondered for a moment…then smirked as an idea came to him as I resonated with Kaname just before I did pick up a very faint ripple of another Whispered…could it be…? Addressing Lorant he said, “Before you head to Merida Island…I have another assignment for you…”

After the storm had begun passing, and the rain pattered gently against the window, Heero tucked his charge into bed. Relena yawned as he drew the covers up over her, and he pushed some hair back behind her ear. The strawberry blonde was nice, but he missed her natural honey color.

“Will you stay tonight?” she asked, her sleepy eyes locked on his face.

“Yeah.” He touched her cheek. “Sleep in tomorrow. We don’t have anywhere to be.” For the first time in months. Not that he would be able to sleep past six, even on a morning off, but she could get some much-needed rest.

She shook her head and said, “Actually Heero…Kaname suggested that we all go to an amusement park…and I said yes.”

Not liking the idea Heero frowned. “An amusement park?”

“Uh-huh.” Relena yawned.

“You realize an amusement park is a public place…kind of hard to be inconspicuous there…you may be recognized.”

As usual his reasoning is flawless “I know,” Relena admitted with a sigh. “But just once I’d like us to experience life like real teenagers.”

He grunted, “We are real teenagers.”

“You know what I mean.” At his apparent balk she entreated with wide blue eyes, “Just this time…please Heero?”

Heero was pinned…trapped by the eyes in which he wanted to drown and he was too helpless to refuse. “Sure…if you want to.”

Awarding him with one of her sweetest smiles Relena reached up and kissed his cheek…a butterfly touch that had his blood rushing If she keeps this up I’ll have to rush back to Sagara’s just to use his chair but her next request squelched that.

“You won’t leave me alone?”

“I’ll be here.”

“Okay.” Her voice was fading as her eyes slipped closed, and he let a small smile touch his lips. She looked so tiny and defenseless that he wanted to wrap his arms around her and never let go. “’Night...”

“Good night,” he said and watched her until her breathing evened out and he knew she was asleep. He left her room, softly closing the door, and headed to the living area, where he saw Sagara standing near the window. He stood ram-rod straight, and didn’t seem to notice as Heero came up behind him.

“Is Miss Chidori all right? We heard her scream earlier,” Heero said, his voice low but with a measure of concern. He thought the Japanese girl was nice, and didn’t want anything to happen to her.

“The storm.” Sousuke sighed. “Something about the weather scared her, but she wouldn’t talk to me.”

Heero heard his frustration, and understood it. How many times had he himself been frustrated with Relena when she wouldn’t talk to him? She was like that after the kidnapping attempt, trying to tell me she was okay. “I figured we’d stay here tonight, in case another storm comes in.” He didn’t plan on leaving even if Sagara did. Relena needs me here.

Sousuke turned from the window. “I’d planned on staying. With the power out, none of the security equipment would work.” He held out a flashlight to Heero, who took it. “You want another soda? Kaname keeps some here for me.”

“Sure.” Heero followed him to the kitchen. Kaname. He doesn’t call her by her first name that often. He knew the Japanese were very proper about how they used names, but he couldn’t imagine calling Relena “Darlian” or “Pax” all the time. That would drive me crazy.

Sousuke grabbed two cans of Orange Crush and handed one to him. They popped the tops and took long drinks. Heero watched the other boy, seeing the strain and tension in his face. Even with the power off, his hawk eyes had quickly adjusted to the dark, as he figured Sagara’s had. Don’t work in this business long without the eyes.

They went back to the living area and Heero sat on the arm of the couch. He noticed Wing and reached over to pick up the small bear, feeling an immediate pang of fear and fury. Will that ever go away?

“Miss Pax’s?” Sousuke had sat on the other arm of the couch, and gestured at the stuffed animal.

“Yeah. She takes it everywhere.” Heero set the bear down and took another swallow of Crush. Not bad, but I gotta get some Coke tomorrow. He glanced over and saw that Sagara was staring blankly at the TV, a tense set to his shoulders. Must be worried about Miss Chidori. “She afraid of storms, too?”

“Huh? Oh, no. I’m not sure what set her off.” Sousuke sighed. He still appeared to be deeply troubled, and Heero decided to take his mind off it for a few minutes.

“When I first became Relena’s bodyguard, we were at a party. She was the guest of honor. I’d been with her for two weeks,” he said, and already the panic and fury of that night began to eat at him. A side glance out the corner of his left eye confirmed that Sagara was paying attention. “I was watching her close, from across the dance floor. There was an explosion at the entrance of the room...” Guilt flooded through him. “I took my eyes off her for about ten seconds, and someone grabbed her.” The fear cut deep, making his chest ache.

“I found her and fired at the guy, but he escaped.” His voice was low and hard.

“Was she okay?” Sousuke was paying full attention, his earlier tension seemingly forgotten.

Heero swallowed the last of his soda. “She was frightened and bruised up some. I didn’t leave her the rest of the night.” Memories of the deep blue marks on her upper arms and shoulders burned through his mind. “I found out later the guy was supposed to...kill her.” His eyes blazed with blue fire, and he crushed the now-empty can in his hand. He picked up Wing. “I gave her this to remind her that I would always be there to keep her safe.”

“Did you find the guy?” Sousuke’s voice held anger.

“Yeah, Preventer picked him up a week later. He worked for an activist group that blamed Relena for their problems.” I could’ve killed the whole group. Gladly. “I haven’t left her side in the last two years, and I won’t.”

“No wonder you questioned my security measures,” Sousuke said. He drained the rest of his soda and, mirroring Heero’s action, crushed the can. The two men looked at each other, and there passed an understanding of one another, an understanding of how important their jobs were to them.

“Yeah.” Heero wasn’t going to apologize again, and knew that Sagara didn’t expect him to. Not now. He decided to shift the conversation. “So how do we keep them safe at the amusement park tomorrow?” Relena had spent a day at Disney World the year before, and security had been insane. He knew she hated it, but she was too important to wander around a place like that without a massive security detail.

Sousuke’s eyes widened. “We’re going to an amusement park tomorrow?” Kaname didn’t say anything to me about going to an amusement park…then again she was too frightened to tell me anything…including what had frightened her…

“Yeah.” Heero did not seem too happy about the idea as he persisted, “So…how do we do it?”

Sousuke smirked. “You saw the weaponry.”

Heero’s eyes widened a bit. “You can’t take all of it.” Relena doesn’t even like me carrying a gun. Which I will from now on at school. If Sagara could pack, so could he.

“I’ll take enough to ensure Chidori’s safety,” Sousuke said with some defiance. “It’s a big place. Lots of things could happen.”

Big place. Great. Why did I agree to this? Relena’s happy countenance flashed in his memory, and he heaved an internal sigh. Because I can’t deny her anything if it makes her happy. He did only when her safety would be severely compromised, and normally a park outing wouldn’t go over with him. But with Sagara there too, he’d thought it would be okay. Still, Sagara’s right. A lot of people will be there....

“The second I think Relena’s in danger, we’re leaving,” he said, his blue eyes reflecting his hard tone.

Sousuke nodded. “I’ve got no problem with that. The women’s safety is the only thing that matters.”

Heero got up and stretched. “You take the couch.”

“No. You’re the guest and—“

Heero let a small smile play at the corners of his mouth. “I don’t need it.” He headed for Relena’s room and paused with one hand on the door knob. “I’ll take the floor.” Then he walked into her room and shut the door, leaving a shocked Sousuke by the couch.

After the storm passed the rest of the night was uneventful. Dawn was clear and portended a sparkling spring day ahead. And as the sun spilled in through the terrace door into Kaname’s living room it woke Sousuke…causing him to sit right up, wiping the sleep from his eyes. Still disoriented he glanced about and saw that he was still at Kaname’s then remembered the storm. The DVD clock was blinking which meant that during the night the power had returned…and his eyes fell on the small fir tree sitting in the ray streaming in. Smiling nostalgically he went over to the tree…

It’s grown quite a bit in four months…maybe it WILL be fully grown so Kaname and I can decorate it together at Christmas… Then remembering the ordeal last night his smile faded as he wondered exactly what had spooked Kaname I hope she slept all right…I held her until she was asleep…but the way she acted last night…scared the hell out of me…

With that thought Sousuke crept over to Kaname’s door…and was startled as the guestroom door opened and Yuy stepped out barefoot and shirtless meeting his Mithril comrade’s raised brow with an almost smug smirk as he nodded…

“Morning.”

Sousuke grunted as Heero passed him and headed to the bathroom. Shaking his head he quietly opened Kaname’s door and entered, his eyes on the shapely form reclined on the bed. When she had drifted off to sleep last night in his arms he was too inhibited to allow himself to remove her clothes to put her nightclothes on so she had slept in her jeans and t-shirt. Keeping his eyes glued to her he got right beside the bed…and knelt down…

Kaname…you look so peaceful sleeping there…I really hope you had a good night’s sleep, Angel…and I hope you’ll trust me enough to tell me what happened to you last night…because I need to know…

Gazing at her sleeping face Sousuke touched his lips with his fingers…then laid them gently on hers…causing her lashes to flutter as she opened her eyes…

“Sousuke? Have you been here all night?” Kaname asked.

“Yeah.”

She yawned widely and stretched. “How come?”

“Because the storm blew the power out,” Sousuke replied. He then added softly, “And you asked me to stay.”

She sat up. “I did?”

He nodded “You did.”

“Why?”

Anxiety tickled at Sousuke’s gut she has no idea what happened to her…just like when we were in Khanka and fighting the Behemoth “Because you were scared by the storm.”

Kaname’s face showed puzzlement as she tried to piece together what had happened. “Let me get this straight…I was scared by the storm last night when the lights went out…and you stayed …” She pulled back and added in embarrassment as a blush tinted her cheeks, “…here in my room?!”

A blush creeping over his face Sousuke jumped to his feet and denied, “Absolutely not…I slept out on the sofa…only because the lights went out. And Yuy stayed with Miss Pax as well.” He then sighed as he continued…

“You were scared by something …and asked me to stay…so I did.”

Kaname frowned as she tried to remember. “All I know is that Relena flipped out when it started storming…you and Heero showed up…then I don’t remember anything else.” She then changed the subject. “So Heero stayed with Relena, huh…in her room?”

Flustered Sousuke looked away. “Yeah.”

“Hmmm,” Kaname had a speculative gleam in her eyes. “Hey Sousuke…do ya think they…?” she left the question open…her meaning clear.

He sighed, uncomfortable and replied, “I really don’t know, Kaname…and it really is none of our business.”

“I suppose,” she agreed then said softly, “But we’ve thought about it…haven’t we?””

At that Sousuke’s eyes became soft as he came and perched on the bed next to her. “Affirmative.” He leaned close and murmured, “More and more lately.”

Kaname smiled coyly fingered his shirt front and asked, “Did you think about it last night?” She met his intense pewter orbs from beneath lowered lashes.

His gaze unwavering Sousuke grasped her hand and nodded. “Yeah.”

“You could’ve stayed in here, you know.” Kaname leaned over and whispered in his ear, “I trust you.”

Sousuke felt his blood ignite does she have any idea what she does to me?…I’ve never been tortured like this even as a POW… “Kaname…,” he groaned.

Then their lips inches apart…bridged the gap and met in a slow kiss. Sousuke cupped his hands around Kaname’s face as she rested her hands on his chest in surrender. And he drank deeply of her sweetness as she nestled close to him…

When they drew apart Sousuke said reluctantly, “I have to head back to my place to shower and change…Yuy informed me that you and Miss Pax decided to go to the amusement park today.”

“Oh yeah…I suggested we all go to Fumo-Fumo Land…we could ride the rides, play games and afterwards do karaoke.”

Sousuke grimaced at that as he got up. “I have no problem with the rides and games…but you’re on your own with karaoke.”

“Why don’t you want to do karaoke?” she wanted to know.

He grunted but gave no explanation.

Kaname jumped up and cajoled, “Oh c’mon Sousuke…remember that date with Mizuki? You were pretty good singing to her.” Her face clouded as she added, “You were very convincing all day as her boyfriend…kissing her and all.”

Recalling that odd circumstance Sousuke insisted, “I wasn’t her boyfriend…I was merely playing a part that was forced upon me…it meant nothing to me.”

Kaname sniffed, “So you feel that singing karaoke to me this time…would be something forced upon you?” She turned her back with her head lowered…

Panicked by the fact that he might have hurt her Sousuke came up behind Kaname and pulled her to him. “You know that’s not true…even though it’s my job I love being with you…and doing things with you…why do you think I’m still here in Tokyo?”

She shrugged her shoulders and he turned her around. “Because I don’t want to be anywhere else… ” Leaning in with his hands on her shoulders he whispered, “Remember I changed my service contract with Mithril…and why do you suppose I did that?”

Her head still down Kaname shook it but Sousuke took her chin and gently lifted so her eyes could meet his. “Because after growing up and never having any type of a future…I now want one…here with you.” He locked his arms around her, cradling her head as he whispered, “And if you want we’ll go to ride rides, play games…and I’ll sing for you.”

“You will?”

“Yeah…but I need to go and clean up.” Sousuke released her consulted his watch and announced, “…so I’ll return to pick you up at approximately 1000 hours.”

Kaname smiled and flashed a salute. “Carry on, sergeant.”

He saluted back. “Understood.”

Sousuke stepped outside of Kaname’s room…just as Heero exited Relena’s. The men contemplated each other…the meaning behind their looks clear. He tossed his head…

“Is Miss Pax all right?”

Heero nodded, “Yeah…it’s not like it hasn’t happened before…and the next time it storms…it’ll happen again.” He gestured to Kaname’s door. “How about Miss Chidori?”

Sousuke scowled as he replied, “She seems fine, says she’s fine…but doesn’t remember a damned thing about what scared her last night…like when she has her Whispered episodes…and it’s bugging the hell out of me.” Both men walked down the hall and into the common area.

“Maybe she just got spooked by the storm, Sagara,” the Preventer agent suggested.

“Bullshit,” Sousuke swore, cutting him off. “Chidori’s not a typical girl…she’s fearless Yuy, a storm would never cause her to act like she did.” His eyes darkened and narrowed. “She was terrified…whatever episode she had last night…scared her so much that she blocked it out.”

He went and got his school jacket…in all the commotion he and Heero never changed out of their Jindai uniforms. “I’m heading back to my place…I told Chidori that I’d be back at 1000 hours and I need to shower and change…you coming?”

Heero nodded, “Yeah…just let me tell Relena.”

He grabbed his jacket and headed back to the guestroom just as Kaname’s door opened and she stepped out…in a pink yukata, carrying some towels to head to the bathroom. Spotting Sousuke still standing there with a scowl on his face she grinned and mischievously snuck up to surprise him…by trying to towel whip him…

Putting the other towels down and holding one towel at both ends Kaname twisted it tightly then got ready to snap his behind. However as a trained commando Urzu-7 had razor-sharp senses…and lightning reflexes. Before she could snap the towel she was seized in an iron grip…and held close as Sousuke smiled evilly…

“You lose, Chidori. You should know by now that I’m a professional. You can’t perform a successful sneak attack on me…especially from the rear flank.”

She squirmed and said, “Yet…but I will.” Playful determination lit her eyes…making her utterly adorable.

With a chuckle he released her. “Go get ready.”

Yuy came out of the guestroom just as Kaname stuck her tongue out at Sousuke…then gathering up her other towels she flounced saucily into the bathroom. Heero glanced at her then Sousuke, a question in his Prussian eyes…

But Sousuke just shrugged, turned toward the door and said, “Let’s go.”

Without a word Heero followed him out…

In two and a half hours at exactly 10 AM the boys returned to Maison K to pick up the girls. Showered, shaved, and changed they were dressed like young men ready for a casual day out with two young ladies. Sousuke, now that he was primarily a civilian cared more about his appearance and dressed in the manner of a 17 year old youth…with expensive taste and thanks to his Mithril paycheck a fairly full wallet. He wore a pair of boot cut black relaxed jeans and a cool gray Hilfiger t-shirt with black leather accents and a gray bomber windbreaker…that brought out his coloring, especially his eyes. His footwear was black Doc Martins. Heero, not to be undone wore relaxed jeans that were mildly faded, a deep blue t-shirt with a tank neckline that was form-fitting to his broad chest, a jeans jacket and like Sousuke, Doc Martins.

And as both bodyguards had agreed, both had their weapons. Sousuke was armed with his Glock 26, a few magazines of ammo, a taser, and his knife. And the Preventer agent was no less armed carrying a 9mm Beretta, several ammo clips and a steel stiletto, sheathed and strapped to his calf. Both had their guns cocked and ready in case of trouble…

Having climbed the stairs they arrived at Kaname’s door and Sousuke rang the bell…then as he and Heero waited they discussed last minute strategy…

“Listen Yuy…this amusement park we’re going to…has as I told you a lot of places…the last time Chidori went there on a date I tailed her.”

“Tailed her on a date, huh?” Heero smirked Sagara’s a man after my own heart…however if Relena was interested in some clown I’d do more than just tail ‘em “So what happened?”

Sousuke frowned as he replied, “She was with her friend and being harassed by some yakuza thugs…I didn’t want her to know I had followed her so I procured a disguise…and took them down.”

Heero grunted and asked, ”What kind of disguise?”

Sousuke answered, “A character costume from one of the actors that walk the park…I…borrowed it from him and saved her using an assault rifle with non-lethal rounds.” He finished, “However the authorities heard the shots…and came after me.”

“I bet.” Heero was amused but then asked, “Did Miss Chidori ever figure out it was you?”

At that question Sousuke stared off thoughtfully. “Yeah…she actually saved me from the cops…she’s always…saving me.”

The door then opened and the girls stepped out. “Sorry to keep you waiting,” Kaname apologized as she and Relena came forward…

The men just stared momentarily dazzled by the vision…both young ladies were casually dressed but their inherent beauty was showcased in the choice of outfits. Relena had chosen to wear a pair of periwinkle blue Capri pants, a pale lavender empire top with a deep neckline and cap sleeves embroidered in violet, with a matching ribbon tying back her strawberry blonde hair at the neck. On her feet she wore lavender slippers with heels and carried a matching purse. Kaname’s ensemble was made up of a cherry red crop top, crimson mules and white Capri’s with red vertical pinstripes. She chose to wear her hair in a ponytail and dangling from her ears were the tiny gold star earrings that Sousuke had given her.

Snapping out of his inertia Sousuke said haltingly, “N-not a problem.” He pointed at the earrings, immediately recognizing them. He had them made from incendiary devices as a precaution to protect her. “They look nice on you.”

She fingered them as she said, “Thanks…just thought I’d wear them…you know, just in case.”

He nodded as he approved, “Good idea.” He grasped her hand.

Heero went over to Relena. “You look amazing…like always.” His Prussian eyes glowed as they caressed her.

Smiling she acknowledged his own garb. “You look pretty hot yourself there, handsome.” She took hold of his hand, their fingers entwining.

Sousuke then stepped forward and addressed the entire group. “We should go.”

They headed to the station…

Fumo-Fumo Land was not far…a short ride to Yanokuchi-Inagi brought them to the popular theme park that boasted among other things a giant gondola style Ferris wheel and the largest rollercoaster in Japan. The day being crystal clear presented a breathtaking view of majestic Mount Fuji in the distance as they traveled through the park and rode the rides. And since both couples were attractive they were getting plenty of attention by members of the opposite sex, with the boys especially having other girls vying to catch their eye…until Kaname and Relena glared at them to stay away. However two girls were annoyingly persistent, following them all over gawking at Sousuke and Heero until Kaname managed to lose them in the crowd…

Kaname, being the one most at home cheerfully acted as guide for the others…showing them which were the best rides and which games were the most challenging. The foursome rode the rides, including the famous Ferris wheel twice…and the rollercoaster, which Relena was hesitant to ride until Heero convinced her to do so, holding her close for the climbs, dips and turns. But that was the exception as throughout the day Kaname’s joy reached out to Relena as the masquerading vice foreign minister forgot for once that her slim shoulders bore the weight of her position and enjoyed being a teenaged girl. The pretty Japanese girl’s effervescent personality was so infectious that even Heero’s perpetual reticence dropped as he laughed out loud at the two girls clowning at the Funhouse…his heart warmed by seeing Relena so carefree. And Sousuke could not keep his eyes off of his Angel, his own heart yearning for the day to never end.

Good food one of her passions at lunch Kaname showed the others a soba stand that had a huge assortment of toppings for the noodles that ranged from any vegetables to savory meats and shrimp. So the four of them gorged themselves, the boys having three heaping helpings apiece while the girls watched them and giggled. However unknown to even the ever watchful bodyguards the two couples were being scrutinized by a shadowy figure who hid himself well within the packed crowd…and who continued following them the rest of the day…

When the park closed at 5 PM nobody wanted to go home…so Kaname took them down to a restaurant that had a karaoke bar. And as they finished dinner they watched as the other patrons tried their hand at karaoke…and gave commentary to the less than stellar efforts…

As a middle-aged man with a receding hairline was warbling his way through “Feelings” Kaname snickered and whispered to Relena, “That guy’s sure no ‘American Idol’.”

Heero chuckled at that and Relena giggled in spite of herself then asked, “Are you going to go up and sing, Kaname?”

She shrugged a slender shoulder and said, “Why not? I love to sing.” Gazing right at Sousuke, who was sitting stiffly next to her with his arms crossed she added, “But someone promised to sing me a song…huh Sousuke?”

Startled he said, “But Kaname…that man is…”

“Finished,” she pointed out as the man finally ended to scattered polite applause. As he stepped down Kaname added softly with a sweet smile, “Now’s your chance to make good on your promise, sergeant.”

Relena asked, “Sergeant Sagara promised he’d sing to you?”

“Uh-huh,” Kaname answered, her eyes never leaving his as he became increasingly uncomfortable.

Breaking into a sweat Sousuke inwardly groaned as he implored, “You’re really not going to make me go up there are you?”

“What do you think?” she purred.

He glanced around the table and saw no help in Relena, who awarded him with an encouraging look. However Heero smirked as if to say you’re on your own, pal. To which Sousuke responded with a dirty look Thanks a lot, Yuy so he turned back to Kaname…and was done for…

As a rule Sousuke preferred to remain an observer or undercover…in the background where there was little chance for embarrassment and failure…but as Kaname’s dark fathomless eyes worked their magic on him he realized that he would face a platoon of enemy in the front lines firing at him point blank and jump through a ring of fire stark naked as long as she smiled at him like that. So he got up and walked to the podium with the room applauding as he consulted at the side to choose the song…

Kaname was waiting as Sousuke made his selection when a feminine squeal erupted behind her. Surprised she turned and saw with dismay the two girls that had chased them for the better part of the day at Fumo-Fumo Land were seated right behind them…with three other friends. She noticed that one girl had her eyes focused on Sousuke while another kept staring at Heero…which drew Relena’s frown as she spotted the moony look on the girl’s face…

Heero, always aware of Relena’s nuances where her feelings are concerned saw her frowning and inquired, “What’s the matter, Relena?”

She tossed her strawberry blonde head at the table of simpering girls, one who could not take her eyes off of the handsome Preventer agent. “It appears you have an admirer.”

“Huh?” Heero, who up to now had been oblivious to the other girls glanced over, gaining a wave and a giggle from the one in question and a glare from the vice foreign minister who jabbed him when his response lasted slightly longer then several seconds. Turning to her he growled, “What was that for?”

“You’re really enjoying it aren’t you?” she hissed waspishly drawing his bemusement.

“Relena, what are you talking about?” Heero was genuinely perplexed.

Relena sniffed, “Don’t tell me you had no idea that girl was staring at you...she’s been ogling you since we were at the park.”

“Is that so?” Heero turned to face the front folded his arms and added benignly, “Until you pointed it out I hadn’t noticed.”

“Oh come on,” Relena persisted. “You’re a man, Heero…you look at women…I’ve seen you.”

“Relena.” Heero sighed and silently urged what the hell’s taking you so long, Sagara? Just sing the damned song so we can get out of here…

And at that moment having made his choice Sousuke stepped up to the microphone I don’t believe I’m doing this…but if it makes her smile…and keeps her by my side…

The music began…and Sousuke began singing…

“Girl I can't let you do this
Let you walk away
Girl how can I live through this
When you are all I wake up for each day, baby

You're my soul and my life's inspiration
You're all I've got to get me by
You're my soul and my life's inspiration
Without you baby, what good am I

Kaname sat in a daze listening as Sousuke began to sing…his voice was soulful and melodic. But what she heard was the words…words that wrenched at her heart as his eyes captured her and he took the microphone…and came to sing directly…to her…

I never had much goin'
But at least I have you
How can you walk out knowing
I ain't got nothing left if you do, baby…”

Oh Sousuke…you’re showing me…something you never did before…you’re showing me…your heart…

Kaname was entranced as the stoic Mithril sergeant communicated in music what he still had not in the stretch of a year spoke. Those three little words…were never uttered between them even in the most intimate and tender moments. The barrier that existed between them as bodyguard and subject could have been for all intents and purposes the Great China Wall and the two never crossed it…verbally. But actions between them were proving the feelings were there and growing stronger every day…

Sousuke finished the song for Kaname and the room burst out in thunderous applause…including girlish shrieks coming from the peanut gallery behind them…with the one who had set her sights on Sousuke screaming the loudest as he went to give the microphone back. Turning to give her alleged rival a withering glare Kaname squelched the rising urge to deck the girl as he came back to the table and took his seat beside her amidst all the acclaim.

Relena smiled and complimented him. “That was wonderful Sergeant Sagara…you have a great voice.”

Sousuke bowed and acknowledged, “Thank you, Miss Pax.”

Relena gazed around at all the people who were waiting for someone to step up and sing. Sousuke had sat back down, and was gazing at Kaname with fondness, ignoring the group of girls seated behind them.

“So, Heero, do you sing too?” Kaname asked, a gleam in her coffee eyes.

Heero shrugged. “I can, if that’s what you mean.” He glanced at Relena, who smiled.

“He has a great voice,” she said. “And actually, there is one song I’d love to hear...” She gave him a rather pointed look, and Heero sighed. "Please?”

“What song?” Kaname asked.

“Go on, Heero. Tell them what you're going to sing," Relena prodded, smiling.

He frowned and said, “Don’t you think it’s a bit ridiculous?”

“No.” Relena glanced at the stage. “Come on. No one’s going up.”

“What song?” Sousuke asked, a smirk on his handsome face.

Heero glanced at the stage. “Jukebox Hero.”

“That’s perfect!” Kaname said, laughing. “So go on. Let’s hear it.”

Heero got up and walked over to the stage. He cast a scowl back at Relena, who winked at him. Smirking and shaking his head, he looked through the songs, selected one, and took the microphone, blowing gently into it.

The first strains of the song started, and Relena sat back, watching as Heero began singing, “Standing in the rain, with his head hung low...”

The girls behind them screamed, and she found herself wanting to glare at them. Stop. Just relax and pay attention to Heero. He was singing it just for her, after all. I don’t need to be jealous.

“Saw stars in his eyes, and the very next day, bought a beat-up six string, in a second-hand store,” Heero sang, his voice husky and low. His chocolate hair hung into his intense eyes, and he stood with his right foot back, in a classic rocker pose. More girls began cheering, but Relena never noticed them.

Wow. He has an amazing voice, and those jeans fit him so nice. She leaned forward, admiring his voice, his pose, the way his body moved to the beat of the drums. Everything else faded, and Relena wanted to touch him, hug him, kiss him...Whoa. Slow down! She realized her face was warm, and hurried to take a gulp of his Coke.

“Jukebox hero, got stars in his eyes, stars in his eyes,” Heero finished and, looking straight at Relena, winked and blew her a kiss before putting the mic back and jumping down off the stage. He strode toward her, ignoring the cheers.

She took another large drink and tried to calm her racing heart as he sat down. “So?” he asked, taking the Coke from her.

“You were awesome,” she said, looking at him. His T shirt, dark blue and form-fitting, matching his Prussian eyes, and with him in such close proximity, she found herself blushing and trying to remember how to breathe. How could I think he'd like that other girl? I know how he feels about me.

“Thanks.” He tipped the can back and drained it.

“Yeah, you were really great,” Kaname said, grinning.

“Very good.” Sousuke nodded his assent, but his pewter eyes were roaming the room, always on the lookout.

Relena turned her head away from her bodyguard, not wanting him to see how flustered she was. It’s not like he hasn’t sung for me before. And that song, too. But it was different this time. Last night was different. She blushed as she thought about waking at two AM to find Heero on the floor beside her bed, sound asleep. I guess I should’ve let him alone. But she hadn’t, instead waking him and asking if he wanted to share the bed with her.

“Relena.” Heero’s concerned voice broke into her memory. “Are you alright?”

“I’m fine,” she said, smiling at him. But his eyes slitted, and she knew he didn’t buy it. “Um, Kaname, do you want to go to the restroom with me?” Please say yes.

The Japanese girl frowned but nodded. “Yeah, sure. We’ll be right back, Sousuke,” she said, waiting for him to look at her.

“Maybe I should—“

“We’ll be fine,” Kaname told him, her voice soft but firm. “Come on, Relena.”

“Come right back here,” Heero said, his blue eyes sharp on Relena’s face.

“We will.” She stood and followed Kaname over to the girls’ room. Once inside, she went to the sink and splashed a little cold water on her face.

“You okay?” Kaname asked, watching her.

Relena nodded and used a paper towel to dry her cheeks. “I just needed a break,” she said, knowing that sounded like a lame excuse for ditching the boys. “Um...Heero stayed with me last night, and—“

“I know. Sousuke told me.” Interest lit Kaname’s eyes.

“Oh. Well, he actually slept in the bed with me, for the first time. All we did was sleep, and cuddle a little,” Relena said, her voice low and soft. It was wonderful, having him so close all night.

“But you regret it now?” Kaname asked. “Did he try something?”

“Oh, no. Heero would never do anything to make me uncomfortable.” Relena shook her head, her blue eyes wide. “No, it’s actually the opposite. I liked having him there, but I know it was wrong. I can’t get involved with him like that.”

“Why not? It’s obvious he really likes you,” Kaname said, frowning. “And you like him, too. What’s wrong about that?”

Relena sighed. “I think it might not work out, and I couldn’t bear to lose him. He’s my best friend.” Her voice caught in her throat, and she dropped her gaze to the floor.

Kaname touched her arm. “You know what I think? I think you two are perfect for each other, and I’ve only known you guys since yesterday.”

“Really?” Relena met her warm, friendly gaze.

“Uh huh. Now come on. If I don’t get back, Sousuke’ll come charging in here with guns blazing.” Kaname smiled. “And trust me, no one wants that.”

“Okay. And, thank you.”

“No problem.”

The girls smiled at one another and headed out of the bathroom, a sense of sisterly camaraderie between them...

Lorant Varga studied the two girls as they walked into the bathroom. One was Japanese, with big brown eyes and long blue-black hair. The other was strawberry-blonde with deep blue eyes. He checked his watch and cast a look around. No boys with them now. Not that he was foolish enough to believe the girls were alone. No, he knew better than that.

Testarossa had told him the Japanese girl was a confirmed Whispered, and she was guarded constantly by a Mithril operative. The other girl seemed to be a friend to her, but Varga took note the way the second young man attended to her, scowling at anyone who got too close to her.

And there’s something familiar about those two. He waited for the girls to leave the restroom, his hazel eyes sharp and cold behind his Ray-Bans. The karaoke bar was busy, making it a perfect place to spy. He paid no attention to the other citizens; his entire being was focused on the bathroom door.

The two girls walked out, and the strawberry-blonde glanced at him. His expression remained the same, but hers changed. She looked suspicious; alarmed, even. His blood began humming in his veins, and he took a step toward her, watching as her blue eyes widened. Yes, she’s very familiar to me.

He moved closer…

Relena followed Kaname out of the restroom, and almost tripped. She quickly glanced around, and noticed a tall, well-built young man watching her. His eyes were hidden by black sunglasses, but his bold stare sent shivers through her. A predatory look…that’s what Heero calls it. He moved toward her, and she dropped her eyes and began to follow after Kaname.

“Excuse me.”

Relena gasped as the man grabbed her wrist. She jerked back, trying to wrench free, but his grip was iron-clad. “Let go,” she said, her heart pounding. Where was Heero when she needed him? “Please, let go.”

“Stand still.” His voice was dead, the same as his eyes when he lifted his sunglasses for a second.

“Relena? Hey, are you…who’s this guy?” Kaname asked, coming back to them. Relena threw a panicked look her way, and Kaname immediately slid her stun gun out of her purse and touched the man’s upper arm with it. His body jerked and fell and Relena pulled free of his grasp, her eyes wide and fearful. “Come on!” Kaname grabbed her hand and yanked her toward the karaoke stage.

“Kaname!” Sousuke charged out of the crowd with his Glock drawn. Heero was two steps behind, his Beretta leveled in his right hand. “Are you alright? You took a long time,” the Mithril sergeant said, his pewter eyes narrowed. “What happened?”

“This guy grabbed Relena and—“

“What?” Heero cut Kaname short as he stopped next to his charge. Relena gazed up at him and tried to shrug it off.

“It’s okay—“

“He grabbed you?” Heero’s voice was chilled. “Where is he?”

Kaname pointed at a space by the ladies room door which was now empty. “He was over there. I used my stun gun on him,” she said, looking at Sousuke, a proud note in her voice. “But I don’t think I hit him hard enough with it.” She glanced to where the man had been. “Sorry, you guys.”

“Sorry? You got Miss Pax away from her attacker. You have nothing to be sorry for, Kaname,” Sousuke said, his voice adamant. He put his Glock away and settled his hands on her shoulders, squeezing gently. “I’m very proud of you.”

Heero nodded. “Yes, thank you, Miss Chidori.” He turned his attention to Relena, who was pale and feeling sick to her stomach. “Are you okay? Did he hurt you?” His voice was soft and caressing, and he swept the back of his right hand across her cheek.

She shook her head. “No, not really. I...I think he recognized me, though,” she whispered, her eyes locked on Heero’s face. “He was watching us when we came out of the restroom.”

His Prussian eyes grew stormy. “Come on. I’m getting you out of here.” He took hold of her wrist, but she flinched, and Heero immediately let go of her. “He hurt you,” he said flatly. “Let me see.”

Relena held her arm out, and a wave of blackness crashed over her. “Oh!” she said, her breath coming in a sharp gasp.

“Relena!” Heero took her face in his hands, and she tried to concentrate on his face, on the blue eyes she knew so well.

But the blackness persisted, dragging her down. The numbers started coming, followed by images and words, coming so fast they started blurring together. The weight pushed on her chest, and she couldn’t seem to find her way out of the dark. Heero...Then the images began to slow, and she could see the words more clearly. What is this? It’s familiar to me somehow. But the more she tried to understand, the more the dark seemed to claim her, and she was drowning in it, flailing and choking, unable to breathe at all now. Heero, help me...

Her eyes flew open and she gasped deeply, feeling Heero’s hands on her shoulders, shaking her. She looked at him, and saw how wild his eyes were, how frightened and mad he looked.

“Relena. Thank God,” he said, pulling her tightly into his arms. “Breathe, please. I’m right here.”

“Heero, what...what happened?” She couldn’t remember what had made him so upset.

He pulled back just enough to see her face. “You had another spell,” he said, his voice shaking. “You were gasping, like you couldn’t breathe. I wasn’t sure how to help you.”

“Oh.” She rested her forehead on his chest. “I’m sorry.”

“It’s not your fault.” He kissed the top of her head. “I want to take you back to Miss Chidori’s. You need to rest.”

Relena pulled away and shook her head. “No. I’m fine now, and—“

“I agree with Yuy.” Sousuke was frowning. He had one hand on Kaname’s shoulder. “That was a very bad spell, Miss Pax.”

“Yeah.” Kaname’s brown eyes were troubled. “You had us all scared.”

Relena knew she was defeated. She swallowed hard and nodded. “Okay.”

Heero put his arm around her. “Come on. The sooner we get out of here, the better.” He began leading her along, and she soon realized how tired she was. Leaning on him, she tried to recall the spell, but couldn’t remember much.

“Are you okay?” she asked, glancing up at her bodyguard as they waited for a taxi. “You looked so upset and worried.”

“I am upset and worried,” he told her. “They need to conduct those tests to find out what’s going on.”

“It was pretty bad this time, huh?”

He gazed at her, his eyes darkly intense. “Your eyes were glazed over, and it looked like you were choking. I couldn’t snap you out of it.”

She bit her lip, thinking. “I remember feeling like I was drowning,” she whispered, and he took a deep breath, his jaw tightening. She hurried to add, “But I feel fine now. And you did bring me back, like you always do.”

“It took longer. And you weren’t...” he made a frustrated sound, “you weren’t breathing, Relena.”

The anguish and fear in his quiet voice broke her, and she buried her face into his chest, tears filling and spilling from her eyes. Why was this happening to her? What did all of it mean? And why can’t I remember?

“Shh, now,” he soothed, holding her close to his body, one hand rubbing her back. “We’re going to get this taken care of, okay? I promise.”

She nodded, but couldn’t find her voice. Sousuke got a cab, and the four of them climbed in. Kaname sat close to him, and Relena could almost sense her roommate’s inner turmoil.

My spell affected her, too, somehow. The thought should have been comforting, but instead it drove cold fear deep into her heart.

They arrived safely back at Kaname’s, and Heero took hold of Relena’s hand as they walked up the stairs. She was tired, and there was a pallor to her face that alarmed him. The spells are worsening. Something has to be done. Sousuke unlocked the door and went in first, Kaname following him closely. Brave girl, Heero thought with a faint smile. I’m glad she’s Relena’s roommate.

Kaname checked her answering machine, and there was a message from Tessa. “We’re going to commence testing on Miss Pax tomorrow at 1100 hours. We’ll send a pick-up.”

Heero felt Relena stiffen, and gave her hand a reassuring squeeze. He knew she was worried about the tests, but they had to be done, especially after this last spell. She wasn’t breathing. He shoved the frightening thought away.

“Will you be alright?” Sousuke asked, glancing first at Relena and then looking at Kaname.

“Yeah, I think so. Um, why don’t you guys come over a little later? That way Relena can rest,” she said quietly, her eyes averted from his face.

Troubled by her manner Sousuke frowned and touched her shoulder. “Maybe we should just stay here.” He looked over at Heero, who nodded.

“I’m not leaving,” he said, and Relena gave him a grateful smile.

“Then it’s settled.” Sousuke nodded toward the TV. “Want to watch a movie?”

Giving up Kaname smiled. “Okay.” They started toward the couch, when his cell went off.

“Sagara.”

Heero watched his face tighten, and saw him glance toward Kaname. This doesn’t look good.

“Yes, sir. I understand.” Sousuke closed his phone and said, “The lieutenant commander of the SRT unit ordered me to come to the Merida base to pilot the Arbalest tomorrow.”

“Why…is it another mission?” Kaname asked, her eyes wide.

“They want to run tests on it, with you there,” he said, and it was clear he wasn’t happy.

“Oh.” Kaname sighed. “Well, at least the four of us will be together, then.”

“Yeah.” Sousuke scowled and went into the kitchen, with Kaname on his heels. Heero looked down at Relena and frowned.

“Come on. You’re exhausted.” He led her to her room and closed the door, watching as she climbed into bed.

“Stay?” she asked, and he nodded, but didn’t join her.

“I’ll be here,” he said, and her face fell. He wanted to climb in beside her, and hold her like he had the night before, but wasn’t sure it was a good idea. That might be moving too fast. Still, they’d been together for two years, and he knew he could control himself. He sat on the bed and touched her cheek. “If I stay with you, you need to sleep.”

“I promise.”

He climbed in beside her and she laid her head in his lap, her eyes closing at once. As she drifted off, he thought about everything that had happened. I’ll do everything I can to help her. He reached beneath the wig and ran his strong fingers through her real hair, enjoying the feeling.

No matter what happens, I will protect her.

In the kitchen Kaname wasted no time and confronted Sousuke asking, “So are you going to tell me why I have to come with you tomorrow, Sousuke? ”

He opened the refrigerator...withdrew a can of Orange Crush, opened it and took a long drink then sighed as he replied, “I don’t know…I was just told to bring you with me with no explanation…just that we should be on the transport picking up Miss Pax and Yuy at 1100 tomorrow. ”They never give me any explanation…just order me and I follow…but after what happened to Kaname last night…

Suspicious by her prior behavior he changed the subject, turned and asked her, “Why were you trying to get rid of me just now?” His pewter orbs were not to be denied and he wanted an answer.

Nervously she tittered and denied, “I wasn’t trying to get rid of you.”

“Kaname.” He frowned and leaned closer. “You wanted me and Yuy to leave…and you avoided looking at me…so tell me, did something else happen when Miss Pax had her spell…did you..?”

Trapped by his relentless gaze she bit her lip and shook her head. “Don’t…,” her eyes entreated, “…please?”

“You remembered what happened last night…didn’t you?”

Miserably, she nodded…

With a muffled curse Sousuke slammed the can down and then crushed Kaname to him…a fierce act that surprised and frightened her in its initial intensity, showing a flood of emotion that spoke volumes…which then morphed into a tender expression that cocooned her in a promise of safety…

He murmured, “Whatever happened to you last night…I wish you would tell me. But I swear this to you, Angel…I’ll never let anyone harm you.” Cradling her head against his shoulder he added, “…and that includes Mithril.”

NEXT…...TESTS OF THE WHISPERED