Shattered

Chapter 4: Rivals

For Akemi, time seemed to be absolutely flying by.

It had been a little over three months since learning his lover, Takiya, was a hitman for the Shintaro Crime Family. For a while, he noticed Takiya keeping a close eye on where he was going, or who he was talking to. 'Probably afraid I'll let his secret out', Akemi concluded.

School had started back, and Akemi split his time between University, work, and home. Takiya had asked him why he would pursue such a "worthless" major as Art Studies, but Akemi insisted it was his passion. He was surprised then, a few days after starting back, he came home to find Takiya gone and a gift-wrapped box on his bed. It turned out to be a brand new paint set, with fifty colors in both oil and acrylic, ten new brushes, and several sheets of canvas.

For Takiya, the time seemed to be in slow-motion. He dared not tell Boss Shintaro that his new roommate knew about his work. For that matter, he didn't even tell him he HAD a roommate. He figured the less the Family knew of his private life, the better off he'd be. There were times, however, he wondered if old man Shintaro wasn't keeping tabs on him.

The only person Takiya confessed this new development to was Keona. He was afraid she would have a wide range of reactions; most of them involving telling Boss Shintaro. To his surprise, she just listened and nodded intently. Sitting across from her in an out-of-the-way bar, she seemed to be unaffected by this news at all.

"Well then Takiya, if you're certain everything is safe, there's only one course to take", she had told him.

"And, what's that?" he asked a little nervously.

Keona smiled, "I'll be coming over for dinner tonight to check out your friend for myself!"

Despite Takiya's protests, she wouldn't hear it, and told the hitman to expect her at 8pm.

...

The time was 7:57pm and Akemi was setting the table. Earlier, he had volunteered to do the cooking, so Takiya took him to the grocery store and let Akemi pick out everything he would need for dinner. Takiya had warned Akemi in advance the woman coming was very important in the Shintaro Family, and not to say a word regarding what he had witnessed.

Although he wasn't much of a drinker (especially since the Exxxtasy disaster), Akemi gave Takiya helpful advice on selecting a bottle of wine. He did work in a restaurant, after all.

Akemi, dressed in a plain red t-shirt and tan shorts, was just finishing up when there was a knock at the door. He called for Takiya and opened the door. A woman with brown flowing hair and green eyes smiled at him. "You must be Akemi right? I'm Keona", she said.

Akemi smiled and bowed slightly, "It's nice to meet you Miss Keona". The woman just giggled a little. "My, aren't you polite? But just 'Keona' will do", she answered.

Akemi stepped back to let her enter. She was wearing a copper-colored dress that complimented her brown hair. Footsteps down the hall signaled Takiya's approach. He was wearing a pair of khaki slacks and a dark blue, short sleeved dress shirt. He nodded politely, "Nice to see you Keona". She smiled in return, "Likewise".

Akemi, not waiting to be asked, left the two and went into the bathroom to wash up. When he had gone, Takiya growled at Keona, "What the hell do you think you're doing?! Showing up at an operatives house like this!".

Keona waved him off, "Oh don't be silly, it's not like I didn't know where you lived". Takiya started to retort, but stopped when Akemi came back down the hall. He had tried brushing that unruly dyed-red hair of his into something that resembled passable, but failed miserably.

"Takiya dear, you never told me Akemi here was so well-mannered", Keona teased. Takiya just glared at her, "Well, that's Akemi for you I guess". Not waiting to be caught in the middle, Akemi quickly left for the kitchen, setting everything out.

Soon, the three of them were sitting around Takiya's table enjoying their meal. Keona, sitting across from Takiya, kept the conversation light-hearted, asking about Akemi's work life, and how it was going at the University. Akemi was polite and answered her questions patiently. After a short while, Takiya loosened up and joined in the conversation.

Sipping her glass of wine, Keona smiled at Akemi and asked, "So how's your relationship with Mr. Katsutoshi coming along?" Akemi, for a moment, choked on his water. "What... *cough* do you *cough* mean by that?!" he asked, obviously embarrassed.

Keona laughed, "Oh come on, I'm not that naive you know", she said with a flirtatious voice. Akemi looked at Takiya, getting a "Keep-It-Simple" glare from the older man.

"Well, it's… it's going just fine", he answered with a smile.

Keona considered this and leaned in slightly, "Akemi, you care for Takiya, right?".

Akemi felt his pulse going up, and was certain he was blushing. "Well, I mean…yea", he answered.

Keona leaned in a little more, "You'd never want to do anything to hurt him, right?" Akemi knew he was blushing now. "No…" he replied.

Keona leaned in so far Akemi thought she was going to fall into his lap, "And you'd do anything in the world for him, right Akemi?"

"I think you've had too much wine, Keona" Takiya scowled.

Keona raised a hand to silence the hitman and waited. Akemi swallowed, unable to speak, so he merely nodded.

Several tense seconds went by, and then Keona sat back in her chair with a big smile. "Great! So let's finish up!" As if nothing happened, she went back to eating.

…

After she left, Akemi was in the kitchen washing dishes when Takiya came in.

"I'm sorry, I didn't know she was going to be so brash", he apologized. Akemi smiled, "Oh that's no problem, really". Takiya just nodded and left Akemi to his work.

When he was finished, Akemi went looking for Takiya. He found him in his room, sitting at his desk cleaning a few of his weapons. Akemi just watched intently, not saying anything.

After a minute, Takiya looked up. He was initially very reluctant to let Akemi see any of his weapons or where they were stored. That changed the day he handed Akemi his unloaded USP and the boy nearly had a panic attack just holding it. After that, he figured Akemi would be the last person to misuse them.

"So… what does this do?" the boy asked, pointing at a black metal cylinder. "It's called a suppressor, or silencer. It muffles the sound of gunshots", Takiya replied. Akemi thought back to that night at Club Exxxtasy. He had paid very little attention then. Although he heard the sound, he hadn't thought anything of it.

"What about this one?" he asked, pointing at a black rifle in a case that was sitting on the bed. "Its an M40, a rifle used for sniping", Takiya replied, going back to his cleaning.

"Do you ever use all of these?" Akemi asked. "When the situation calls for it", Takiya replied simply. Takiya spent the next 10 minutes educating the curious boy on the various weapons, their operation, and their functions. When he was done, Takiya posed an interesting question to Akemi.

"So kid, ever think about getting in this line of work for yourself?" he asked. Akemi's eyes widened, "N-no! I could never do that!" he replied. Takiya just shrugged. "You ever change your mind let me know", he said simply.

Akemi took a seat on the floor by Takiya, talking to him about the various things that went on in school and work. Whether Takiya was genuinely interested or just faking, Akemi wasn't sure, but at least he looked interested.

"Takiya? What was the real reason Miss Keona came over tonight?" Akemi asked.

For a moment, Takiya said nothing, then replied, "She knows you found out. She came by as sort of an interview to see if she believes you will let the secret of my employment out."

Akemi nodded, "So… if she believed I would—" Takiya cut him off, "She doesn't".

"Yes but, if she did?", Akemi argued.

Takiya just shrugged, "If she did, she'd probably have killed you before leaving". His words made the young boy shiver, "Well, guess it's a good thing she thinks otherwise huh?"

Takiya nodded, then went back to his work.

….

It was 8:30am the next morning, and Takiya was driving Akemi to Tokamishi University. As they made their way through the streets, Akemi looked over at the hitman. "Takiya? Did you ever, well…you know, think about you and Keona getting together?" he asked.

"Nope", the older man replied shortly.

Akemi considered this for a moment, then, "Well, why not?" Takiya glanced over, "You know the first rule of business, right kid?" When Akemi didn't answer, he continued, "Never mix business and pleasure". Akemi said no more on the subject.

As Takiya pulled up to a red light near the University, Akemi began packing his art book back into his bag. He had been drawing a little on the way, and was blissfully ignorant of his surroundings. As he was babbling on to Takiya, he suddenly realized the hitman was paying no attention to him.

"Takiya, you falling asleep?" he kidded, but stopped when he noticed the mans vision drawn to something else. Parked next to them at the red light was a jet black, sporty BMW with darkly tinted windows.

"Takiya, what is it?" Akemi asked with concern in his voice. The driver of the BMW rolled the passenger window down and gave the two occupants a long stare. The man driving the BMW had long black hair with a bit of gray mixed in, tied in a ponytail. What struck Akemi about him was the mans black tattoo on the right side of his face. Akemi wasn't sure, but it looked almost tribal.

Seconds later, the light turned green, and the man roared off. Takiya seemed utterly dumbfounded.

'I...I don't believe what I just saw', Takiya thought to himself.

"Takiya?" Akemi said. The hitman barely noticed the voice, it sounded so far away.

'I've heard stories, but I never thought they could be true...'

"Takiya?" Akemi repeated louder.

'Could it really have been him? Could that man just now have been-"

"TAKIYA!" Akemi yelled.

Takiya snapped out of his stupor, shaking his head. "Ah, sorry kid, guess I was daydreaming". He pressed the gas, guiding the Audi down the street.

"Takiya, did you know that guy?" Akemi asked. Takiya activated his turn signal and turned down the street Tokamishi University resided on, "No kid, never seen him".

It was partially true; Takiya had indeed never seen the man before...in person.

Guiding the car to a stop in the University student parking lot, Takiya smiled at the young boy, "You get out at 7pm, right?" Akemi nodded yes, "Its Friday, I'm always out at 7pm on Friday".

"Why don't we go have dinner tonight? My treat", Takiya offered

Akemi grinned happily, "Sure thing, I'll meet you here after class". He grabbed his bag and shut the door, waving to Takiya as he drove off.

As soon as he was out of the school lot, Takiya picked his phone up and dialed Keona's number.

"Keona? We have an issue", Takiya said as soon as the woman answered. "Issue? What do you mean?" she said in reply.

"I was dropping the kid off a minute ago, and someone pulled up next to us".

"Police?" Keona asked.

"No, I think... I think it was... Kane", Takiya answered.

Keona let out a small, audible gasp. "Takiya are you sure?!" she asked.

"No, I've only seen pictures of him, but, that tattoo... it looked like—" he began but was cut off. "Where are you?" she asked. After Takiya gave his current location, Keona continued, "Come to the Manor immediately, but make SURE you're not being followed before you do. If it IS Kane, you have a serious problem." Without warning, Keona promptly hung up.

Within 20 minutes, Takiya had parked in car in the Shintaro Family's garage and was sitting at the 2nd floor bar, inside a lounge designed for informal meetings between the Family and their 'associates'. He had just started on his glass of whiskey when Keona came in, holding a manila envelope. She nodded towards a couch over in the far corner and Takiya got up, following her over. They took a seat and Keona opened the folder, lying it on Takiya's lap.

"Kane, better known as 'The Black Dragon'. No known family or official history. Birth date unknown, vehicle history unknown, possible residence unknown", she said simply. Takiya stared at the photo of the man, seemingly taken through a telephoto lens. Yep, that was him alright.

"So what DO you know about him?" he asked, taking a sip.

"We know he works for the Kitazawa Family, our...'rivals' if you will. We also know that just as you are our best, he is to the Kitazawa's what you are to us. There has not been a confirmed sighting of him for nearly four years", Keona said.

Noticing Takiya's smirk, she finished, "Don't let that ego get the best of you Takiya. Kane is an expert at what he does, and once he accepts a contract on someone, well... there has never been a case of the target escaping."

"He works for the Kitazawa's right? Can't you just capture one of their scouts and torture the little prick until he gives him up?" Takiya asked. Keona shook her head no, "Its been done before, none of them have ever uttered a word."

Takiya nodded in acknowledgement. Keona sighed deeply, "Tell me how you encountered him".

The hitman spent the next 10 minutes detailing the events of that morning. She listened intently then closed her eyes deep in thought.

"Keona, you don't think I got a contract out do you?" Takiya asked. He was referring to the act of somebody paying a rival assassin to terminate him.

"No, at least not one accepted by any operative of any reputation whatsoever. Tokamishi may be a big city Takiya, but any contracts done through any of the families we would have known about", she concluded, then smirked slyly at him, "Or maybe its one of those pissed-off former lovers of yours".

Takiya gagged on his drink, making the woman giggle slightly.

"In any case, be extra careful for a while. Arrogant as you are, you ARE important to the Family, and..."

"And...?" Takiya asked, raising his glass.

"And, to Mr. Hidoji", she said simply.

Takiya stopped at mid-sip, then lowered his glass.

"Takiya its nothing to be ashamed of you know. I see the way he looks at you, little Akemi is completely head-over-heels for you", she continued, a small sparkle in her eye.

Takiya hmph'ed and took a sip, "I noticed".

Keona looked at him curiously, "So, do you not feel the same way?"

Takiya looked at her, "I never said that. The kids just more enthusiastic about things than me".

"But you do love him, right?" she asked with a grin. Takiya sat his glass down on the coffee table and closed the folder, taking it with him, "Well this concludes our meeting, have a great day Keona".

Unable to resist, Keona asked innocently, "So... have you made love yet?"

She barely ducked the folder as it came flying at high speed towards her head.

…...

At 7:05pm, Akemi opened the door to the Audi and got in, setting his bag on the floorboard. He smiled broadly at the older man, "Hi Takiya, you look nice tonight".

Takiya glanced down at his attire; he was wearing a dark red dress shirt with sleeves rolled up to his elbows, a pair of black slacks, and black dress shoes. "Thanks kid, you look..."

He glanced over at Akemi. The boy was wearing a cream-colored long sleeve shirt and a pair of blue jeans. His shaggy red hair was a mess, as usual. "Well, your hair matches my shirt", Takiya concluded. Akemi giggled and put on his seatbelt.

"So where are we going?" Akemi asked.

"Place called Starlight, its a combination restaurant/nightclub", Takiya answered. Akemi stiffened a little at his answer and he continued, "Not that kind of nightclub, so relax". Akemi was still a little sensitive about clubs, since the experience at Exxxtasy a few short months ago.

"Whats the occasion Takiya?" Akemi asked. "For...us going out?" Takiya replied. Akemi nodded.

"No occasion, just wanted to enjoy a night out. We CAN enjoy a night together, right? Or would you rather stay home?" Takiya asked. Akemi's face creased with worry. "Oh no, I didn't mean to offend you or anything", Akemi began but was cut off by Takiya's laughing. "You sure are gullible kid", he said with a grin. Akemi just stared for a moment then smiled, reclining back in the seat.

It was about a half-hour drive from Tokamishi University to the restaurant. When they arrived, Takiya gave the keys to the valet with a small wad of bills as a tip. The walkway to the door was lined with small lights, almost giving the appearance of a runway. Takiya nodded at the doorman who held the stained glass doors open for them.

Starlight, while technically a nightclub, was nothing like Exxxtasy. There were no strobes, no huge crowds, no pounding dance music. The restaurant was dimly lit, most of the lighting coming from the hundreds of small lights embedded in the ceiling, apparently to resemble star light. The walls were a smooth tan color and the floor was dark red carpet. The tables were arranged around a hardwood dance floor, and were covered with matching tan tablecloths. The candles on each table added to the elegance of the establishment, as did the soft music playing in the background.

While waiting on a waiter, Takiya noticed Akemi picking at his sleeve nervously. "What is it kid?", the older man asked. "Takiya, everyone else here is dressed like you, and...well, I'm the only one dressed casually".

Takiya just grinned, "You think the clothes you're wearing will somehow lessen our evening?" Akemi considered this, then smiled. "No, I guess it won't". Takiya nodded approvingly, looking at the waiter as he approached.

"Welcome to Starlight gentlemen, my name is Nanji, what can I get you two to drink?" he began. Takiya ordered a scotch, while Akemi just wanted water. The waiter took their drink orders and reached for a couple of menu's in his apron, but Takiya waved him off. "I've been here before, it's not necessary", the hitman said. The waiter nodded and departed.

"Takiya this place looks expensive, are you su-" Akemi began. "Yes I'm sure, don't sweat it", Takiya said, holding his hand up dismissively. Akemi gave in and nodded. "So, Takiya...? About what happened at the red light this morning", Akemi started.

Takiya opened his mouth to answer but the waiter returned with their drinks. "And would you gentlemen be wanting an appetizer this evening?" the waiter asked. Takiya nodded, ordering a plate of croissants and dip. The older man asked, "Do you still do the Friday Night Special here?".

The waiter nodded, and Takiya continued, "Good, then we'll just order that. Chicken for me, and fish for my friend". The waiter nodded, making a note. "Your croissants should be out in five minutes". Takiya nodded approvingly and the waiter left.

Akemi looked at Takiya, "What did you order me, and how do you know I like fish?" he asked. Takiya sipped his scotch, "Because Tuesday is Fish Special day at the Hinotama, and you always come straight home and brush your teeth on Tuesday".

Akemi just stared in amazement, "How did you..."

Takiya smirked, "Its part of my job to be observant. I'd be poor at it otherwise".

The red-haired boy just smiled, "I guess you would". Akemi spent the next few minutes telling Takiya about his day until their appetizer arrived. The two ate silently for a few minutes until Akemi looked up.

"Takiya? I wanted to ask...about your job".

Takiya stopped chewing and swallowed, "Why? Odd place to bring this up isn't it?". Akemi looked at the older man, "You brought it up first". Takiya considered this and shrugged, "Guess I did. Ok, what is it?"

"You said, you had been doing this since you were younger than me. I wanted to know, what made you start?" Akemi asked, a hopeful look in his eyes.

Takiya shook his head no, "Not here kid, I'll tell you later if you still want to know". Akemi was a little disappointed, but accepted the answer and went back to eating.

A few minutes later, the waiter came out carrying a tray with two covered dishes. "Alright, one Friday Night Special, chicken and fish", he said setting the two dishes down and removing the lids.

"Oh wow..." Akemi said, clearly impressed. His plate contained steamed fish, pasta, rice, and green beans. Takiya's was grilled chicken, rice, potatoes with gravy, and corn. The waiter set a small basket of bread rolls on the table then departed.

"This is really nice, thank you Takiya", Akemi beamed, digging in. Takiya just nodded and started eating.

Akemi went back to discussing school and work as he ate. Takiya, much to Akemi's surprise, actually took an interest, rather than just letting him ramble. He asked Takiya a few questions, taking care to stay away from his choice of employment. Takiya took the time to answer such inquiries as favorite foods, what he liked to do in his spare time... things that, despite their relationship, he had never asked.

After a while, Takiya excused himself to go to the bathroom, and during his absence, the waiter brought their check. Akemi ignored it for a minute or two, then it got the best of him and he peeked, then immediately felt supremely guilty for letting Takiya foot the bill.

"¥15,800 yen?!" Akemi said out loud. A hand reached over his shoulder and swiped the check. "Thats all? They must be cutting prices", the voice said behind him. Takiya took his seat across from Akemi, who was now red with embarrassment. "I told you kid, it isn't a big deal", the older man reassured him.

Akemi looked down, still blushing. "I just, don't want you to inconvenience yourself for me, that's all. Isn't there anything I can do in return?"

Takiya sat back in his chair, lost in thought, when the intercom chimed to life, informing the diners it was now 9pm, and the dance floor is open. A few seconds later, a slow-dance song came on.

Takiya got up, grabbing Akemi by the arm, "Come on kid". Akemi blushed quite badly. "But Takiya, my.." he started, looking down at his clothes again, then remembered what Takiya told him earlier. He smiled and ceased his protests, letting Takiya pull him onto the dance floor.

"Takiya I've never...I mean, I've never danced with anyone before", Akemi confessed. "Oh kid its easy", the older man replied with a slight smirk. He took Akemi's hands and wrapped them around his neck, then encircled the boys waist with his arms.

"See? Piece of cake", Takiya said.

As they danced, Akemi lost track of everything. His insecurity about his attire, the occasional odd look from other dancers...everything. The absolute only thing entering his mind was he loved Takiya Katsutoshi, completely, for everything he was.

"Takiya...?" Akemi asked.

The older man looked down at the young boy, "What kid?"

"Do you... t-that is.. " he began, but stuttered. Takiya gave him a questioning look.

Akemi took a deep breath to steady himself, then closed his eyes, "Do...do you love me Takiya?" For a long moment, the boy kept his eyes closed, his heart beginning to sink at the lack of response.

"If you don't it's ok, I understand, it's just-" he began, but was cut off when Takiya's arms tightened, pulling the startled boy closer into him. Akemi opened his eyes and looked up just to meet Takiya's gaze as he kissed him. The song began fading out as it ended, and when the kiss broke Takiya leaned into Akemi's ear.

"Very much...Akemi", he said gently, then pecked the boys cheek softly. If Akemi was hooked up to an EKG, he was certain it would have malfunctioned. Takiya led the boy off the dance floor and towards their table to finish up.

…...

It was 10:13pm, and as they drove back towards him, Akemi felt he was absolutely glowing. Takiya had the radio turned down low, so he could listen to both it and Akemi. They had only gotten three miles or so before flashing blue lights in the rear view mirror caught their attention. Takiya looked down at the dash, seeing his speed was about 12 kph over the posted limit. Damn speed zones...

He pulled over alongside the road, a small two-lane side street with run-down buildings on either side. Takiya rolled his window down and reached behind him, digging his wallet out. The cop, a portly man with more beard stubble than should be allowed, ambled up to the window.

"Hi! How you folks doing tonight? I'm Officer Yuhata, Tokamishi Metro Police Department, do you know why I pulled you over?" the cop began. Takiya just shook his head no. "Well you were clocked at 52 kph in a 40 kph zone. I'd like your license please sir", the cop continued.

Takiya nodded, "Sure thing officer", and began rifling through his wallet. The cop leaned in, "Sir I smell alcohol on your breath, have you had much to drink?". Takiya shook his head no, "Just a little at dinner, not much at all really".

The cop considered this, then stepped back. "Sir I'd like you to get out of the car for me please", the pudgy patrolmen said. Takiya gave the cop a look of annoyance, "Officer I'm on a date, is this really necessary?" The cop leaned down, glancing at Akemi, who weakly smiled and waved. "Yes sir it is necessary. Please, get out of the car", the cop asked again.

Takiya sighed in annoyance and put his hand on the door handle to get out.

'Pfft'

The officer fell over dead, killed by a single gunshot to the head. "What the hell?!" Takiya asked, clearly alarmed. Fat cops keeling over wasn't exactly rare, but it was when they died of organ trauma from bullets.

Takiya frantically looked around, then spotted a black car parked about a block away, facing their direction.

"Thats-!" he started to say, but was cut-off by a bullet slamming through the windshield, missing his head by inches.

"Get down!" he yelled at Akemi, grabbing the boy by the back of the neck and roughly pushing him down. Takiya threw the Audi in gear and roared forward, cursing Officer Yuhada for parking behind him. The black car also accelerated forward, then jerked the wheel, causing the car to turn sideways, driver door facing the Audi.

The driver stuck his rifle barrel out the window and opened fire. Akemi screamed as bullets ripped into the car, putting more holes in the windshield. Takiya slammed on the breaks, drawing his USP from its holster inside his pants.

He opened fire, the report of the gun, fired from inside the car, made Akemi scream louder and cover his ears. After about nine rounds were fired at the black car, it spun itself into reverse and roared off, taking a turn up ahead and speeding away. Takiya re-holstered his gun and looked at himself; He was bleeding from where windshield glass cut him, but he wasn't shot. Taking the boy by the forehead, he pushed his head back to get a look at his condition. Likewise, Akemi had some small cuts, but he wasn't shot...at least that he could see.

Takiya roared off towards home, taking as many back roads as possible to stay off the main streets. After a minute or two, Akemi began talking.

"Takiya, I'm bleeding.." the boy said weakly. "I know, but you're not shot, and its just small cuts from the glass, you'll be fine", the hitman said, speeding towards home.

After a few moments, Akemi complained, "My ears are ringing so bad". Takiya, without looking over, replied, "Thats because I just fired a gun nine times in an enclosed car".

"But it didn't sound that loud last time!" Akemi whined.

"Well I had my fucking silencer last time!" Takiya yelled.

Akemi shrunk back, his eyes threatening to tear up. Takiya sighed, reaching over to rub the boys arm. "I'm sorry, I was just scared, ok?". Akemi just nodded and said no more. Takiya removed his hand; it was coated with blood. In the back of his mind, he began to seriously worry.

Takiya retrieved his cell phone and dialed Keona's number. She picked up on the third ring. Takiya said little, only that he and Akemi were attacked, possibly by their mystery man. Keona agreed to leave now and meet them at the apartment. Takiya hung up and floored the gas; within 10 minutes, they were heading inside the elevator to Takiya's floor.

As soon as the elevator doors opened, Takiya picked Akemi up in his arms and ran for his door. He got it open, then ran inside, slamming the door with his foot. Takiya thought briefly for a moment, then decided the bathroom was the best place to put him. He sat the boy gently on the folded-down toilet seat then ran to his bedroom.

Akemi tried to relax by taking deep breaths, his eyes beginning to tear up from pain. He didn't know how bad he was, but he had faith that Takiya would fix everything.

After a minute Takiya came back with what looked like a metal pistol case. Opening it on the sink, Akemi looked over and saw it was some kind of trauma kit. It had the usual band-aids, bandages, and wrappings, but several types of ointments, syringes, small bottles of various injectable medicine, a suture kit, some rather sharp looking scalpels, and many other instruments.

Takiya produced a pair of medical shears and squatted down in front of Akemi. Without saying a word, he grabbed the hem of the boys shirt and began slicing upwards, cutting the shirt off. Akemi, slightly alarmed, started to protest, but stopped after seeing Takiya's glare.

He slit the shirt up the middle and pulled it open. There were about six cuts on the boys chest, shoulder, and left arm. One in his chest and the one in his shoulder still had a fragment of glass embedded in it. On the boys right shoulder, Takiya found, much to his amazement, a very thin, shallow scratch. Akemi had been scraped by a rifle round, but it missed serious damage by millimeters.

Reaching inside his kit, Takiya produced a pair of small tweezers. He took a breath and looked at Akemi. The boy was looking back at him with damp eyes.

"Kid, I know you don't want to hear this, but I need to remove the glass." Akemi started to panic a little, but his breathing calmed when Takiya reached over and gently brushed his hand through the boys hair. "You trust me, right Akemi...?

Akemi bit his lower lip and nodded. Takiya leaned forward a bit and very gently gripped the piece of glass embedded in the boys shoulder. "One...two...three", he said, pulling the glass out on three. Akemi bit his lip harder and squeezed his eyes shut, a single tear leaked down his face.

Takiya moved down to the boys chest. "Last one Akemi, ok?" he asked. The boy just nodded and braced himself. Takiya extracted it as carefully as possible, but he knew it was still painful.

He took a small folded piece of cotton wrap and used it to wipe away the blood on the boys arm. A loud knock sounded on the door. Takiya looked at Akemi then pulled his USP out. He checked the magazine, finding he still had seven of the sixteen rounds left. "Stay here, if you hear shooting, get in the tub", he said. Akemi just nodded and he left the boy.

A quick look in the peephole showed it was only Keona. He opened the door and shut it behind her. She was obviously getting ready for bed, if the black silk pajama pants and camisole were any indication. Takiya said nothing but led the way to the bathroom.

"Is he ok?" were Keona's first words. Akemi looked tiredly up at Keona and smiled, "Of course Miss Keona". Keona nodded and smiled in return. "Takiya? A word please", she said, then abruptly left. Leaving Akemi to keep gauze on his cuts, he followed her into Takiya's bedroom.

"Takiya, the shooter, was it...?"

"I'm not sure, it was too hard to see his face. But it was the same make/model/and color car, so I'd put good odds on it. I dumped over half a magazine at him, I'm sure I got him at least once", Takiya replied.

Keona nodded. "We'll dispatch a scout to help monitor your apartment". She offered. Takiya shook his head no, "Not necessary. I can handle it".

"But..."

"No Keona", Takiya replied with a scowl.

"Well at least let us send someone to look after Akemi when you're on jobs", Keona pleaded. Takiya scowled deeper, "Fine..."

Keona picked up her cell phone and dialed a number. She spoke little, only giving the address, a description of Takiya's Audi, and her name. When she hung up, she looked at Takiya, "A towing truck is coming for your car. It will be repaired and parked exactly as it is now by 8am tomorrow." Takiya nodded, grateful for the expense the Family was going through for him.

"Takiya, that man is going to kill you, and maybe little Akemi. Maybe you should...you know...leave Tokamishi for a while", Keona said.

"No", Takiya replied, shaking his head, "I'm not running from that bastard, and I'm not going to uproot Akemi from his life here. I'll just get him before he gets me", he finished with a smirk.

Keona studied his face for a long while, then sighed, "I hope you're right", she said as she headed for the door. Takiya threw her the keys to his Audi.

After she left, Takiya went back to the bathroom. Akemi was buttoning his pants back up. "I uh... just checking to make sure nothing else is bleeding", the boy said with a small smile. Takiya nodded and grabbed his box of band-aids. The cuts were many, but they were all small. Takiya rubbed antiseptic on his injuries and bandaged them.

"I can't resist kid, I have to know. Are you SURE you don't do things like this on purpose?" Takiya asked with a grin. Akemi smiled, "Positive". Takiya left to go get Akemi a t-shirt from the dresser he had bought the boy some time ago. At first the boy had slept on the couch with his dresser in the living room. About a month ago, Takiya had taken to letting the boy share his bed when he didn't want to sleep on the couch. His dresser had been moved into Takiya's room for convenience.

He returned and handed the shirt over to Akemi. "Well, I'm going to hop in the shower. See you shortly kid", Takiya said. Akemi nodded and got up, slowly walking out to give the older man his privacy. Too tired for his own shower, Akemi went and crawled in Takiya's bed, pulling the covers over him.

It was nearly half an hour later, and Takiya was on his back, staring at the ceiling. Akemi was asleep beside him, his head resting on his chest.

"You still want to know kid?" he asked. Akemi raised his head, "Know...what?"

"Why I do this", Takiya answered simply. Akemi nodded and Takiya took a deep breath.

"I was thirteen when I saw my entire family murdered in front of me", Takiya said.

Akemi's eyes widened, "Takiya, you never told me this!"

"Of course I didn't. It isn't the kind of thing you go around telling people", Takiya retorted.

Akemi shut up, so he continued.

"My father was the manager of a bank here. For whatever reasons I don't know, but he agreed to help some mobsters launder their money. Not the Shintaro's or Kitazawa's, this was a small Family who were trying to make a name for themselves; the Yutoka Family...they were a joke".

Akemi said nothing and Takiya continued, "One day my father was raided by police. Everything came out, and my father was arrested. His lawyer bailed him out, and advised him to seek protective custody for us. He refused, of course. My father was a stubborn man, and felt since he had been so loyal the Yutoka's would cut him a break".

After a few moments, Akemi asked, "So...what happened?"

"My fathers trial was coming up soon. He cut a deal with the Prosecutor; he'll testify and name names, if he stays out of jail and the family gets relocated somewhere else. It was agreed we'd move in the morning, and the police would keep tabs on my father to ensure he lived up to his end".

Takiya took a deep breath and continued, "But one of the cops was on the Yutoka Family's payroll, and leaked information about the deal. He found out the move was scheduled for the next day, and notified the Yutoka Family enforcers."

Akemi said nothing, but listened intently.

"I was getting ready to go to a nearby supermarket to pick up groceries for dinner. I was getting my shoes when I heard the front door being broken in. I was so scared, all I could do was run and hide, so I did. I hid in the small closet in the living room while those men broke into my home", Takiya continued.

"My father ran into the living room and met two of them as they came in. They beat him to a pulp while the third one went into the back. He grabbed my mother and little sister and forced them into the living room. My father was lying on his stomach, and they made my mother and sister watch as they beat him until he couldn't get up".

Takiya stopped, and Akemi could see misting in his eyes. After a moment, he continued.

"They forced my mother and sister face down on the floor, and made my father look at them. While he was watching, the Yutoka enforcers shot them both in the back of the head...they killed them and made my father watch. They laughed at him as he tried crawling to their bodies, then shot him to death on the way out", Takiya finished.

Akemi swallowed hard. He knew Takiya had had an unpleasant childhood, but he never imagined it was like this.

"The police came, and since I had no family, I was put in an orphanage. I hated it there, and everyone knew what happened to my parents and sister. I stayed in that place until I was eighteen, and then I left".

Akemi looked into Takiya's eyes, a little uncertain of what he was about to say. "How...how did you fall in with the Shintaro's?" he asked timidly.

"One of the teachers at the orphanage was the niece of the man who was Boss of the Shintaro's before the current Boss. She watched me as I grew up, noted that I was gifted in the brains department. When I left he orphanage she got in touch with me, and offered me a job with the Shintaro's", Takiya said.

"But, weren't they afraid you'd go to the police?" Akemi asked.

Takiya shook his head no. "No, they weren't. They weren't because they had something I wanted, and knew I'd join them to get it".

"What was it?" Akemi asked. Takiya hesitated for a minute; "The identity and location of the men who killed my family".

Akemi's eyes widened, "So you worked for them in exchange for the information?" Takiya shook his head, "No, I worked for them in exchange for a Shintaro hitman killing all three enforcers, plus the Boss of the Yutoka who ordered the job done".

Takiya went on, "I became a hitman for the Shintaro's at 18, and I swore life-long loyalty to Boss Shintaro for doing this. He's like a father to me. I respect him so much, he's always been there for me whether I fucked up or did a great job. He took me in when I had no one and nothing, he paid me very well, and he helped me take revenge on the Yutoka's. I owe everything to him kid". Takiya finished.

Akemi nodded, and laid his head back on Takiya's chest. "Then, I think I finally understand Takiya..." The older man just nodded and laid back, a small tear running down his face. In seconds, both men were asleep.

…...

*ring*...*ring*...*ring*...

"Yes?"

"The target is alive. I'll have to make a second trip."

"This isn't like you. You have always finished on the first try".

"There was someone else there who got in the way. Don't worry, the second time will be the last."

"I hope so. We wouldn't want your stellar reputation to suffer now would we?"

"Of course not."

The caller hung up, and sat in his chair by the window glancing through the target file again, the moonlight illuminating the information.

"Don't worry, you won't be getting away so easily next time..." the voice crooned.