Decerto ch. 35
Title: Decerto
Chapter: 35/50
Pairing: HyungJun/KyuJong, HyunJoong/JungMin, YoungSaeng/YunHo
Rating: R overall
Warning: AU, violence, angst
Summary: The job of a fighter is to do one thing: win. As preparation for the annual Decerto Tournament goes underway, two longstanding rival houses purchase their newest fighters, each with their own motives for crowning their fighter as Champion. But only one fighter can ultimately win...and for the other, it means death.
A/N: RP with yeonah Crossover with Super Junior, DBSK
The first day of the second tier came far too early, KyuJong waking up at the sound of the horn. Stirring, he sat up and rubbed at his eyes, looking down at HyungJoon beside him. He sighed softly, not wanting to leave the younger man, but he had to.
"Joon...Joon, time to wake up," he leaned down and kissed his master's lips softly, one rabbit ear tickling the human's cheek.
"No," HyungJoon shook his head, wrapping the rabbit back up in arms and pinning him against the mattress. "I won't let you, you can't go," he whispered, clinging for dear life.
Knowing this wouldn't be easy, KyuJong hugged HyungJoon in return, kissing his shoulder. "You have to...it'll be fine Joon, I'm all rested, and there will be days I'm not on the schedule, they space the matches out more. I can stay with you those days, right?"
"Of course, I'll have it arranged," HyungJoon nodded, sniffling a little. "I'm so scared for you Kyu... I don't even care if you win or not, I just don't want you to die."
"I'm not going to die," KyuJong hugged the young human tightly, running his hand along his back. He wasn't going to leave HyungJoon alone. "I promise."
"Holding you to that," HyungJoon said softly, pulling back a little to look down at the rabbit. "Go get showered and dressed... we have to leave soon right?" he said sullenly.
Yeah, that was the hour warning," KyuJong nodded, cupping his master's face and looking up into his eyes. His kind, kind master who he'd do anything for. Leaning up, he kissed HyungJoon softly, running his fingers through the other man's hair.
HyungJoon returned the kiss, resisting the urge to just bury KyuJong under the covers and never let him up. He pulled back after the short kiss, smiling down at him. "Don't start or you'll be late," he said poking the rabbit's nose. "Go, shower, hurry up."
"Okay," KyuJong nodded, returning the smile before carefully scooting out from underneath HyungJoon. He grabbed the fighter's outfit waiting on a nearby chair and disappeared into the bathroom for a quick shower.
When he returned he was wearing the familiar uniform, making sure his plant seeds were with him.
HyungJoon was waiting for him, dressed in casual clothes to take the rabbit down to the fighter's level before he got ready himself. He looked at KyuJong with a sad smile, shaking his head a little. "I still don't think that suits you. You're never ever participating in the tournament again, you hear me?"
"Okay," KyuJong smiled softly in return, padding over to him. Hopefully with this tournament, the Kim house would pull enough ahead there was no need for him to fight. "I'm ready."
"Let's go," HyungJoon nodded, taking KyuJong's hand first and pulling him into another kiss before stepping out into the hall. He didn't say anything else as they walked down to the elevator, just keeping KyuJong close to him as they rode it down to the fighter's quarters.
Once he got the rabbit checked in, and found out which match was his and who he was against, HyungJoon turned to KyuJong, pulling him a little bit aways from the desk. "Good luck, I know you'll make me proud no matter how well you do," he said quietly, cupping his cheek lightly. "Just don't get hurt."
KyuJong smiled softly at him, holding the hand against his cheek. "Thank you...I'll be fine. You be careful not to get caught up with those protestors."
"What do you take me for, some hippie?" HyungJoon snorted, leaning in to kiss KyuJong's forehead lightly. "I'll see you on your next rest day, okay?"
"Okay," KyuJong closed his eyes, enjoying the contact and knowing that would be the last of it for a couple days. After a moment he opened his eyes again and smiled at HyungJoon. "Take care." He stepped back from the other man, turning to go to the door connecting to the fighter's wing.
"You too.. good luck," HyungJoon said, watching him go until he was out of sight before going back to the elevator. He hated to think it, but he really wished KyuJong would lose his first fight, and then he wouldn't have to worry about him anymore.
Once in the fighter's quarters, KyuJong sniffed the air and looked around for where the others would be. He carefully avoided any snake smells and wandered through the corridors, searching.
"Well, there's the little rabbit," HyunJoong spotted KyuJong first when he wandered by. "Finally decided to join the rest of us?"
Perking up a little, KyuJong turned around to face HyunJoong with a small smile. "Yeah..." He trailed off for a moment, seeing JungMin beside HyunJoong. The dragon looked vastly different without his wings, tail and horns, the half-form having accounted for half his bulk.
"Hey," JungMin nodded to him, lips quirked slightly.
Smiling a little again and bowing his head slightly, KyuJong looked between them both, wondering what was going on. "When are your matches?"
"I have second round today," HyunJoong said, ignoring the way KyuJong was looking at him. "He's last, when are you?"
"Tenth," KyuJong replied, tilting his head to the side. "Have you seen any of the others? SungMin, Daniel?"
"Daniel's keeping an eye on the cub, I don't know about SungMin," HyunJoong shrugged. "I bet he's spending time with that other dog around here, that really nasty one."
"Nasty one?" KyuJong blinked, confused.
"That metal one, you know, that killed an ox in the first day," JungMin rolled his eyes.
"DongHae?" KyuJong remembered the dog he'd fought against previously.
"Do I care what his name is?" Apparently being in full human form made JungMin prickly.
"Ignore him," HyunJoong rolled his eyes. "He's just being a grump. Where's your room at? We're all kind of spread out around this place."
"Uh...I actually haven't found it yet," KyuJong looked down at the number he'd been given when registered. "I think I'm in the east wing. I'll find it after. Are you heading to the viewing pit?"
"Not yet," HyunJoong shrugged. "I really don't care to see the other matches unless I know someone in it. We don't know anyone in the first match, do we?" he glanced at the grumpy dragon.
"Nope," JungMin shrugged, arms folded over his chest.
"Okay..." KyuJong looked between them again. It had taken him a moment to tell since they were standing so close together, but the two rival fighters were saturated in each other's scent. Obviously things had progressed between them...but was that good or bad? "I'm going to see if I can find some of the others then," he smiled lightly at them, eyes a little worried.
"Be careful little rabbit," HyunJoong said, lips quirked a little. "I think Daniel and the cub are in the dining area, the cub eats a lot."
KyuJong chuckled. "I know. I'll be there for your match, good luck," he smiled at HyunJoong before turning and leaving.
"Was wondering if he'd show up," JungMin leaned back against the wall, shuffling a little uncomfortably.
"Of course he would, he wouldn't miss it after fighting with the master for it," HyunJoong said, watching KyuJong until he disappeared. "You're not helping your case any if you snap at anyone who so much as looks at you. Daniel doesn't act like he's got his tail in a trap all the time."
"I'm trying, this is really uncomfortable," JungMin sulked, making himself stop squirming. "And I'm sure Daniel's mixed with ox, he has zero temper."
"It's probably because his element is water," HyunJoong chuckled. "That and he's older than you."
"Not that much older," JungMin sniffed, pouting at the tiger. "You usually never talk about elements. If our personality is affected by that, what does metal make you, hard-headed?"
"No, the only hard-headed one here is you," HyunJoong said, glowering at the dragon out of the corner of his eye. "Metal elements are competitive and focused. Ever since Daniel had me element training I've become a little more interested in it."
"Oh really? So no more nasty comments about cheating whenever I use fire?" JungMin chuckled, amused by that.
"It's still cheating when you do it," HyunJoong said, pushing away from the wall and getting closer to the dragon, leaning in. "Just you."
"Just me?" the dragon smirked lightly, meeting HyunJoong's eyes as he reached up and his fingers curled into the tiger's collar. "That's not playing fair."
"And you should know I don't play fair, not when it comes to you," HyunJoong said, cocking his head to the side. "Everything you do is cheating."
"Maybe you're just a sore loser," JungMin murmured, using his grip on the tiger's collar to pull him closer.
Someone opened a door right beside them then, the dragon getting a whiff of dog. "You know, there are better places to make out than out here."
HyunJoong's lip curled in a snarl, glancing to the side at the dog, who was not SungMin. "And that's your problem why? Get lost, pup."
The dog leaned against the doorway, smiling. When JungMin pulled back to look at who it was, he saw it was that DongHae person.
"Well, you're kind of flirting right outside my room, it makes getting some sleep a little hard. Oh, you're the Kim tiger and Jung dragon? Don't you two hate each other?"
"The matches have started, you won't be getting any sleep anyway," HyunJoong rolled his eyes, turning his head to the side to glare at the dog. "And if you have a problem with where we stand, then you're just going to have to deal with it."
"Prickly cat, aren't you," the dog grinned, not seeming put-off at the least. "And you didn't answer my question."
"That would be because it's none of your business," JungMin huffed, pushing away from the wall in annoyance.
"What happened to talking pleasantly, everyone's so mean. If you keep glaring like that, your face is going to be stuck that way," DongHae informed HyunJoong. "Hardly intimidating."
"Why are dogs so irritating?" HyunJoong sighed, looking to JungMin. "Come on, my match is up next anyway, let the pup nap in peace. He'll need his rest."
Rolling his eyes, JungMin moved to head down the corridor.
"I hope I get to fight you at least once, cat," DongHae chuckled. "Maybe you'll treat smaller signs a little more politely after I fill your insides with metal."
"I treat signs politely, I just don't like you," HyunJoong call over his shoulder. "And good luck with that, I'm not afraid in the least by your metal."
"Denial isn't going to help you." The metal plating over the floor beneath the tiger turned sticky, clinging to the bottom of HyunJoong's shoes as he walked. "Good luck in your match, you're going to need it."
"You will too," HyunJoong said, glancing down at the flooring. Snorting softly, he tilted his head to the side, focusing on the flooring. A wave bubbled up from under his feet, the floor rising up and rolling towards the dog.
Seeing what was going on, JungMin half-turned to look back the corridor. Before the wave reached DongHae though, it melted back to the floor, negated by the dog. The other fighter was grinning, arms folded across his chest and still leaning casually against the doorframe. "Not bad...for a beginner. Keep practicing kitten, or our match will be very short."
Eyes narrowed, HyunJoong continued down the hall towards JungMin.
Waiting for HyunJoong to catch up, JungMin walked along beside him. "Stupid, cocky dog," he huffed. "At least you're all riled up for your fight now, I feel bad for your opponent."
"Me too," HyunJoong snarled, ears out and tail slashing in the air.
Wow, that had really gotten the tiger the wrong way if his half-form was out. JungMin sighed softly, figuring it was better not to say anything for the moment. It didn't take long to reach the viewing pit, where he could see they were cleaning up after the first match. A snake had nearly torn a poor rooster to pieces, loose feathers all over the place.
"This won't take long, I'll be right back," HyunJoong murmured, moving towards the gate. Unlike in the pretournament, the fighters would enter and exit through the main gates. Rolling his shoulders, he waited until the gates were up completely before stepping out into the arena. For the second tier, the rocky landscape had been removed and in it's place was a mini city block. Broken down buildings, street lamps and trash littering the pavement to complete the illusion.
Ignoring the cheers from the crowd, HyunJoong strode towards the main intersection, waiting for his opponent. The scent of ox filled his nose and he felt the ground trembling slightly as the ox came towards him from the other gate.
KyuJong watched from the viewing pit, attention on one of the large screens since he couldn't see past the buildings. He glanced towards where JungMin was watching the screen intently, before turning back just as the ox charged. They were in the same alley, nowhere for HyunJoong to run as the other fighter came at him.
HyunJoong didn't move, watching the ox charge closer and closer. Eyes narrowed, he gave a small shake of his head, skin hardening over. Stepping one foot back, he smirked as the ox kept coming, horns down.
The ox ran straight into what was essentially a steel wall. HyunJoong not even flinching when the horns deflected off his chest, though he scowled when his shirt was ripped a little. The ox staggered back, dizzy from the impact before he fell over onto his ass, eyes rolling up into the back of his head and passing out.
"And that concludes a very short match!" KyuHyun called over the roar of the crowd. "The Kim tiger moves on to the next round!"
JungMin snorted in amusement, grinning as he watched the screen. Talk about a hard head. Snickering, he went to wait by the gate, seeing the Kim's dragon trainer there as well.
When HyunJoong came out of the arena, he was pouting down at his torn shirt. "Stupid ox and their stupid horns," he muttered, looking up and seeing the two dragons. "What?"
"What, I was just standing here," Daniel chuckled, but clapped the tiger off the shoulder lightly. "Good match."
"I wasn't just standing here," JungMin grinned, looking down at the tear in HyunJoong's shirt. "Come on, let's get that fixed."
HyunJoong inclined his head slightly to Daniel. He probably wouldn't have been able to to do as well if it hadn't been for the older dragon. "Yeah... you've got a while before your match right?" he grinned at JungMin, pulling him away from the gate and down the hall. "The shirt's already ruined, might as well finish the job," he murmured into the dragon's ear.
"I like that idea," JungMin's eyes danced, one hand teasingly pulling at the tear. "Maybe I can also get a closer demonstration of this new fighting technique, without the shirt in the way."
"I think we can arrange that," HyunJoong chuckled, nearly dragging JungMin into his room, slamming the door behind them. They had a few hours, and neither of them cared about watching the other fights.
***********************
The morning passed slowly for those up in the viewing boxes, YunHo watching the few matches from those in his own house but mostly paying attention to YoungSaeng and those beside him. Most of his fighters weren't scheduled for today, but following days, which meant there was little to interest him in the arena.
KiBum had joined them again, taking up KyuJong's empty seat next to his brother. He seemed to have forgone any problems with HyungJoon to talk with him and distract him from the rabbit's upcoming match.
After the tiger's impressive performance, HyungJoon was actually in a relatively good mood, though it didn't last. Not with how quickly KyuJong's match was approaching, and that it was next. Leaning forward, he frowned down at the arena. "What's he up against again?" he asked his brother for the tenth time.
The younger brother exhaled slowly, keeping himself from getting annoyed. "A monkey. He'll be fine, okay hyung? From the news reports he went up against much tougher opponents than a monkey."
"Yes, but if a monkey got through then he's either good or he skated through in a better fighters team," HyungJoon said, chewing on his knuckle.
"I think this is the monkey that was on your horse and oxes team," YoungSaeng said quietly, opening his eyes from where he'd been resting against YunHo. "Unless there's another monkey, but I don't think there is."
"The monkey hardly did anything that match, Kyu will be fine," KiBum sighed, glancing at SooHyun beside him before turning his attention back to his brother. "Come on, you were going on and on about supporting the house before, what is this." He pulled HyungJoon's hand away from his mouth before he could break skin.
"Throw your goat in there and see how you feel," HyungJoon muttered, but he sat back, crossing his arms over his chest.
"KyuJong is a good fighter, he didn't win the pretournament for nothing," YoungSaeng said. "Yes it was be default, but he still would have competed in the final match."
"I'm not throwing SooHyun in there, that's the difference," KiBum's eyes narrowed. "You're the one who submitted those numbers, whether he insisted or not, you could have still taken him off the roster."
"They're starting," YunHo said to get their attention away from the argument, KyuHyun calling out the next names to fight as the gates opened below.
"I had four fighters, I submitted four numbers," HyungJoon countered lowly, glaring at his brother before leaning over to watch. "Not like I can say no to him anyway."
KyuJong and the monkey were stepping out of their respective gates, making their way to the center of the city block. KyuJong took in the arena around him, the spookiness of it all making his fur stand on end. He couldn't see any sign of green life in the twisted metal, and the concrete below his feet wouldn't be good for growing plants. But it was riddled with cracks, and he could see earth underneath...if he could make the plants strong enough to break the thin layer of concrete, he'd be able to fight with them.
Smelling monkey, he braced himself, letting a few seeds fall to the ground and roll into the cracks before the monkey appeared up above. Using the sign's flexibility to hold onto twisted balconies, the other fight dropped down from above, KyuJong rolling out of the way.
HyungJoon was completely focused on the fight leaning forward to look down into the street below. Even with the high vantage point though, it was hard to see what was going on without looking up at the cameras. KyuJong was definitely at a disadvantage in this arena, the monkey able to use the buildings surfaces like a jungle gym. "Just stay out in the open Kyu," he murmured to himself.
The monkey came at him from different sides, able to rebound and move quickly between the buildings. KyuJong dodged around the attacks, on the same line of thought as HyungJoon. The monkey was wearing himself down more like this, but the chances of being hit by an attack was too high. But was there any good place nearby for him to fight? Maybe he could catch the monkey if he had enough time. Sending some more energy to the dropped seeds, KyuJong took off down the street, flicking a few more seeds into the shadows. The monkey followed after him.
Making the monkey chase him back and forth through the street, KyuJong glanced over his shoulder to see where the other fighter had gone. Something slammed into him from the side, the rabbit crashing to the ground with a shout. The monkey had gotten him by surprise while he was distracted. Seeing another attack coming, KyuJong rolled out of the way just in time, the concrete crashing as the monkey landed hard right where his head had just been. The rabbit kicked up, feet planting into the fighter's chest and knocking the monkey away so he could get back up.
The monkey was trying to escape back to the balconies where he had an advantage. Not if KyuJong could help it. Pressing his hand against the wall, he summoned his plants, thin vines breaking through cracks in the concrete and weaving into the monkey's shoes to drag him back down.
When the monkey turned to face KyuJong again, he was greeted by the rabbit's powerful kick in the chest, slamming back into the wall. KyuJong landed on his rear, the horn blowing overhead as the monkey slumped to the ground, out cold.
Breathing a sigh of relief, HyungJoon leaned back again. "Good, good fight," he said, letting himself smile. There were definitely some jeers in the crowd, many people thinking the rabbit hadn't deserved his win. He was happy to hear a few cheers and shouts of encouragement though. "I don't have anymore matches today, just a couple tomorrow. Your dragon's last right? I'll stick around for that."
"There's still a while to go before that, you don't have to," YunHo chuckled, smiling at the other master. "You look exhausted, why don't you just take off for the night, we'll have plenty of opportunity to watch the fights tomorrow."
"I don't really feel like going back to an empty room," HyungJoon said with a soft sigh. "Unless you're kicking me out, but that wouldn't be very neighborly of you."
"Maybe you and your brother can do something," YoungSaeng suggested. "He doesn't seem like he wants to be here either."
"Not really," KiBum slouched in his seat.
"I'm not kicking you out, just suggesting," YunHo chuckled. "KiBum, why don't you and your hyung go get some fresh air."
"Don't have to tell me twice," the younger brother stood up. "You coming, hyung?"
HyungJoon winced a little, giving YunHo and YoungSaeng a wry look as he got to his feet. "Yeah, guess so," he said, hands in his pockets. "We can probably get some lunch while we're out, I just don't want to get caught by the protesters or anything," he said, heading for the door.
"They're not going to attack you or anything, they wouldn't be allowed here if it turned violent," KiBum shrugged, following him to the door. "Come on SooHyun, let's get something to eat. See you tomorrow YunHo, YoungSaeng."
"Have a good night," YunHo's lips quirked, watching them go.
SooHyun bowed politely to YoungSaeng and YunHo before scurrying out after the two brothers, closing the door behind them.
"Have they always fought like this?" YoungSaeng asked with a sigh, shaking his head. "I knew KiBum wasn't happy with the fights, but I always thought he looked up to HyungJoon, at least that's how he always sounded to me."
"I don't think the fighting was as bad before, but then again KiBum did spend four years studying in the city," YunHo mused, running his fingers lightly through YoungSaeng's hair. "That's a long time to be away from his only family, maybe they just need time to get used to each other again."
"Probably not the best time for KiBum to have come home then," YoungSaeng said, closing his eyes at the hand in his hair. "Their father's death really took its toll on them, I just hope the fighting doesn't get worse. You can tell they still care about each other."
"They do," YunHo nodded, sighing softly. "The tournament will be over in less than a month, then they can focus on getting to know each other again. I don't think they'll let this situation get between them forever."
"I should hope not," YoungSaeng murmured, shifting a little so he could sprawl over YunHo's lap. "That is if the tournament goes smoothly."
"Let's hope it does," YunHo sighed, smiling softly down at YoungSaeng and trailing his fingers over the snake's jawline. That reminded him though of what he'd realized in Zhou Mi's office the other day.
"RyeoWook told me the other day that the fighters planning on revolting were being rallied by a snake with blue and purple scales. I know many different snakes, and only one fits that description."
"Who?" YoungSaeng's eyes opened and blinked up at him.
"KyuHyun," YunHo murmured, looking up to see the referee snake calling out the hits for the current match from his balcony perch.
Sitting up, YoungSaeng looked at YunHo with confused eyes. "KyuHyun? The games commissioner's snake?" he confirmed lowly. "You think Zhou Mi knows about it?"
"I doubt it...it would be his duty as commissioner to stop it," YunHo shook his head, looking back down at YoungSaeng.
"But it's not like they wouldn't know who he is, word would get back to Zhou Mi," YoungSaeng said, frowning slightly. "Are you going to tell him?"
"I don't know," YunHo murmured. "I'm not even positive it is KyuHyun, but snakes with blue and purple scales aren't common around here."
"No, that's a very unique coloring," YoungSaeng said, pursing his lips. "What are we going to do? What if they really do revolt?"
"If they do, then I don't want you anywhere near here," YunHo frowned lightly, looking down at YoungSaeng. "It'll be far too dangerous."
"No, I'm not leaving you," the snake shook his head, scooting to sit on YunHo's lap. "You'll have to drag me away from here kicking and screaming."
"I don't want you to be hurt Saeng," YunHo wrapped his arms around YoungSaeng's waist, hugging him close. "I can't leave here until the tournament's over, but if the situation is getting dangerous, I don't want you caught in the crossfire."
Resting his cheek against YunHo's shoulder, YoungSaeng closed his eyes and sighed softly. "I don't want you hurt either, and not knowing would kill me," he said, curling his fingers into YunHo's shirt. "I'm not going anywhere, technically you can't make me leave."
"No, I can't...I can only ask you to," YunHo closed his eyes as well, running his fingers gently through YoungSaeng's hair. "Please be careful, Saeng..."
"I'll be careful," YoungSaeng promised, nuzzling into him more. "If anything, I'll go snake and hide in a hole somewhere if things get too bad," he quirked a smile.
"Just be careful not to get stepped on," YunHo kissed the other man's forehead. "That defeats the purpose."
"You worry too much," YoungSaeng murmured, closing his eyes. "How long do we have until the dragon's match? Can we get lunch?"
"I can call a servant up to get us something," YunHo chuckled softly, kissing along YoungSaeng's cheek. "Anything you want in particular?"
"Hmmm... too bad you're not on the menu," YoungSaeng chuckled, smiling at the kisses. "I'm not fussy, just no seafood."
"Got it," the other man smiled in return, kissing YoungSaeng's lips softly before pulling back. "You'll have to let me stand up though."
"You're comfortable though," YoungSaeng pouted, though he did shift a little to let YunHo get up. "How many rounds are there for this tier? Obviously KyuJong isn't going to be advanced right to the third tier now... right?"
"No, there are several different rounds in the second and third tier," YunHo shook his head, standing. "Four in this tier I believe...then they'll have narrowed it down to the top 16 fighters."
"That's a lot of matches," YoungSaeng said, stretching out along the seat. "How well do you think your fighters are going to do? Do you know when we're going to get a break? I thought the games would be a little more exciting than this but other than the occasional interesting match, it's just idiots hitting each other in the face."
"It gets more exciting the more the crowd is thinned out," YunHo chuckled, heading to the door and looking back. "Then you get to the fighters who live for the ring, and take it much further while fighting. We'll get a break soon, they spread the fights out the more the tournament goes on, so there will be a few days when none of my fighters are going up and we can rest." He leaned out into the hallway and spotted a servant, relaying the request for food.
"Fighters who live for the ring... like the Kim's tiger," YoungSaeng demurred. "So far his match and KyuJong's have been the only two interesting ones, even if the tiger's was short. All of his matches have been fairly short, he takes the fights more seriously than any other fighter I've watched."
"It is a pretty serious thing. Some fighters treat it differently depending on their personalities. But whether they treat it seriously or like a game, there are those who know the ring better than anyone else, and those few will show themselves as the other, less competent fighters are wiped out." YunHo stepped over to the seats again and sat down lightly on the edge.
"Well I guess I'll be paying more attention during the third tier then," YoungSaeng said, looking up at him. "You are glad I came with you aren't you?"
"I am glad," YunHo smiled down at him, cupping YoungSaeng's cheek lightly. "I just wish it wasn't so dangerous for you to be here."
Sitting up again, YoungSaeng wrapped his arms around YunHo's torso sideways and rested his chin on his shoulder. "I'm far safer here with you than I ever will be anywhere else," he said softly.
YunHo wrapped his arms around YoungSaeng in return, kissing the top of his head. "I'm just worried that if the revolt does happen, I won't be able to protect you," he murmured.
"I can protect myself," YoungSaeng said, wrinkling his nose a little. "I'm a rattlesnake, I'm not a defenseless garter snake."
"I know you can, but not against dozens of stampeding fighters," YunHo buried his nose in the other man's hair. "Can you blame me for being worried?"
"No, because I'm worried too," YoungSaeng said, leaning into him. A thought occurred to him and he pulled back to look into YunHo's eyes. "Master Kim... does he know?"
"About the possibility of a revolt? I don't know," YunHo frowned lightly. "KyuJong probably told him. Do you think we should bring it up tomorrow?"
"It wouldn't hurt," YoungSaeng said. "KyuJong's been with him all week and won't see him again until another rest day, and we only just found out from RyeoWook about it being a real concern."
"True," YunHo nodded. "All right, we'll bring it up with him then. KiBum as well, this really wasn't the best time to bring him to the tournament."
"In more ways than one," YoungSaeng sighed, closing his eyes again and leaning against him. "When's the next day we get to do something fun?" he asked with a pout.
Chuckling softly, YunHo leaned in to kiss the pout. "I don't think any of my fighters are up day after tomorrow. Why don't we take the day off? Do you want to go into the city again, or hide away in our room."
"Hmm... half in, half out?" YoungSaeng suggested, tilting his head to the side. "I wouldn't mind lounging through the morning and going out after lunch," he said, running his hand through YunHo's hair lightly.
"Then that's what we'll do," YunHo smiled softly down at him, eyes filled with adoration as he looked down at YoungSaeng. "Anything you like, that's what we'll do."
YoungSaeng raised an eyebrow. "Anything?" he asked in amusement, shifting to straddle YunHo's lap. "I've always wondered what it was like to be out in public like this, have the cheers from the crowd... interesting, no?"
Blinking, YunHo's lips curled in amusement, hands resting on the snake's hips. "Interesting for sure...does that mean lunch has been put on hold?"
"After lunch, so I don't go into a food coma," YoungSaeng grinned, leaning down to press his lips against YunHo's lightly. "That and we don't want to scar the poor servants who come in with the food."
"They should know better than to walk in without knocking," YunHo chuckled, kissing him back softly. "Something to look forward to."
"Definitely," YoungSaeng murmured around his lips. Just enjoying kissing him for a while, YoungSaeng begrudgingly let YunHo up when the servants came by with the food. They ate a nice meal, watching one of the matches going on below until they were done and their attention was no longer on anything but each other. Luckily they were high up enough that the crowd couldn't see into their box, but it was still a little thrilling to be in public together.
Chapter: 35/50
Pairing: HyungJun/KyuJong, HyunJoong/JungMin, YoungSaeng/YunHo
Rating: R overall
Warning: AU, violence, angst
Summary: The job of a fighter is to do one thing: win. As preparation for the annual Decerto Tournament goes underway, two longstanding rival houses purchase their newest fighters, each with their own motives for crowning their fighter as Champion. But only one fighter can ultimately win...and for the other, it means death.
A/N: RP with yeonah Crossover with Super Junior, DBSK
The first day of the second tier came far too early, KyuJong waking up at the sound of the horn. Stirring, he sat up and rubbed at his eyes, looking down at HyungJoon beside him. He sighed softly, not wanting to leave the younger man, but he had to.
"Joon...Joon, time to wake up," he leaned down and kissed his master's lips softly, one rabbit ear tickling the human's cheek.
"No," HyungJoon shook his head, wrapping the rabbit back up in arms and pinning him against the mattress. "I won't let you, you can't go," he whispered, clinging for dear life.
Knowing this wouldn't be easy, KyuJong hugged HyungJoon in return, kissing his shoulder. "You have to...it'll be fine Joon, I'm all rested, and there will be days I'm not on the schedule, they space the matches out more. I can stay with you those days, right?"
"Of course, I'll have it arranged," HyungJoon nodded, sniffling a little. "I'm so scared for you Kyu... I don't even care if you win or not, I just don't want you to die."
"I'm not going to die," KyuJong hugged the young human tightly, running his hand along his back. He wasn't going to leave HyungJoon alone. "I promise."
"Holding you to that," HyungJoon said softly, pulling back a little to look down at the rabbit. "Go get showered and dressed... we have to leave soon right?" he said sullenly.
Yeah, that was the hour warning," KyuJong nodded, cupping his master's face and looking up into his eyes. His kind, kind master who he'd do anything for. Leaning up, he kissed HyungJoon softly, running his fingers through the other man's hair.
HyungJoon returned the kiss, resisting the urge to just bury KyuJong under the covers and never let him up. He pulled back after the short kiss, smiling down at him. "Don't start or you'll be late," he said poking the rabbit's nose. "Go, shower, hurry up."
"Okay," KyuJong nodded, returning the smile before carefully scooting out from underneath HyungJoon. He grabbed the fighter's outfit waiting on a nearby chair and disappeared into the bathroom for a quick shower.
When he returned he was wearing the familiar uniform, making sure his plant seeds were with him.
HyungJoon was waiting for him, dressed in casual clothes to take the rabbit down to the fighter's level before he got ready himself. He looked at KyuJong with a sad smile, shaking his head a little. "I still don't think that suits you. You're never ever participating in the tournament again, you hear me?"
"Okay," KyuJong smiled softly in return, padding over to him. Hopefully with this tournament, the Kim house would pull enough ahead there was no need for him to fight. "I'm ready."
"Let's go," HyungJoon nodded, taking KyuJong's hand first and pulling him into another kiss before stepping out into the hall. He didn't say anything else as they walked down to the elevator, just keeping KyuJong close to him as they rode it down to the fighter's quarters.
Once he got the rabbit checked in, and found out which match was his and who he was against, HyungJoon turned to KyuJong, pulling him a little bit aways from the desk. "Good luck, I know you'll make me proud no matter how well you do," he said quietly, cupping his cheek lightly. "Just don't get hurt."
KyuJong smiled softly at him, holding the hand against his cheek. "Thank you...I'll be fine. You be careful not to get caught up with those protestors."
"What do you take me for, some hippie?" HyungJoon snorted, leaning in to kiss KyuJong's forehead lightly. "I'll see you on your next rest day, okay?"
"Okay," KyuJong closed his eyes, enjoying the contact and knowing that would be the last of it for a couple days. After a moment he opened his eyes again and smiled at HyungJoon. "Take care." He stepped back from the other man, turning to go to the door connecting to the fighter's wing.
"You too.. good luck," HyungJoon said, watching him go until he was out of sight before going back to the elevator. He hated to think it, but he really wished KyuJong would lose his first fight, and then he wouldn't have to worry about him anymore.
Once in the fighter's quarters, KyuJong sniffed the air and looked around for where the others would be. He carefully avoided any snake smells and wandered through the corridors, searching.
"Well, there's the little rabbit," HyunJoong spotted KyuJong first when he wandered by. "Finally decided to join the rest of us?"
Perking up a little, KyuJong turned around to face HyunJoong with a small smile. "Yeah..." He trailed off for a moment, seeing JungMin beside HyunJoong. The dragon looked vastly different without his wings, tail and horns, the half-form having accounted for half his bulk.
"Hey," JungMin nodded to him, lips quirked slightly.
Smiling a little again and bowing his head slightly, KyuJong looked between them both, wondering what was going on. "When are your matches?"
"I have second round today," HyunJoong said, ignoring the way KyuJong was looking at him. "He's last, when are you?"
"Tenth," KyuJong replied, tilting his head to the side. "Have you seen any of the others? SungMin, Daniel?"
"Daniel's keeping an eye on the cub, I don't know about SungMin," HyunJoong shrugged. "I bet he's spending time with that other dog around here, that really nasty one."
"Nasty one?" KyuJong blinked, confused.
"That metal one, you know, that killed an ox in the first day," JungMin rolled his eyes.
"DongHae?" KyuJong remembered the dog he'd fought against previously.
"Do I care what his name is?" Apparently being in full human form made JungMin prickly.
"Ignore him," HyunJoong rolled his eyes. "He's just being a grump. Where's your room at? We're all kind of spread out around this place."
"Uh...I actually haven't found it yet," KyuJong looked down at the number he'd been given when registered. "I think I'm in the east wing. I'll find it after. Are you heading to the viewing pit?"
"Not yet," HyunJoong shrugged. "I really don't care to see the other matches unless I know someone in it. We don't know anyone in the first match, do we?" he glanced at the grumpy dragon.
"Nope," JungMin shrugged, arms folded over his chest.
"Okay..." KyuJong looked between them again. It had taken him a moment to tell since they were standing so close together, but the two rival fighters were saturated in each other's scent. Obviously things had progressed between them...but was that good or bad? "I'm going to see if I can find some of the others then," he smiled lightly at them, eyes a little worried.
"Be careful little rabbit," HyunJoong said, lips quirked a little. "I think Daniel and the cub are in the dining area, the cub eats a lot."
KyuJong chuckled. "I know. I'll be there for your match, good luck," he smiled at HyunJoong before turning and leaving.
"Was wondering if he'd show up," JungMin leaned back against the wall, shuffling a little uncomfortably.
"Of course he would, he wouldn't miss it after fighting with the master for it," HyunJoong said, watching KyuJong until he disappeared. "You're not helping your case any if you snap at anyone who so much as looks at you. Daniel doesn't act like he's got his tail in a trap all the time."
"I'm trying, this is really uncomfortable," JungMin sulked, making himself stop squirming. "And I'm sure Daniel's mixed with ox, he has zero temper."
"It's probably because his element is water," HyunJoong chuckled. "That and he's older than you."
"Not that much older," JungMin sniffed, pouting at the tiger. "You usually never talk about elements. If our personality is affected by that, what does metal make you, hard-headed?"
"No, the only hard-headed one here is you," HyunJoong said, glowering at the dragon out of the corner of his eye. "Metal elements are competitive and focused. Ever since Daniel had me element training I've become a little more interested in it."
"Oh really? So no more nasty comments about cheating whenever I use fire?" JungMin chuckled, amused by that.
"It's still cheating when you do it," HyunJoong said, pushing away from the wall and getting closer to the dragon, leaning in. "Just you."
"Just me?" the dragon smirked lightly, meeting HyunJoong's eyes as he reached up and his fingers curled into the tiger's collar. "That's not playing fair."
"And you should know I don't play fair, not when it comes to you," HyunJoong said, cocking his head to the side. "Everything you do is cheating."
"Maybe you're just a sore loser," JungMin murmured, using his grip on the tiger's collar to pull him closer.
Someone opened a door right beside them then, the dragon getting a whiff of dog. "You know, there are better places to make out than out here."
HyunJoong's lip curled in a snarl, glancing to the side at the dog, who was not SungMin. "And that's your problem why? Get lost, pup."
The dog leaned against the doorway, smiling. When JungMin pulled back to look at who it was, he saw it was that DongHae person.
"Well, you're kind of flirting right outside my room, it makes getting some sleep a little hard. Oh, you're the Kim tiger and Jung dragon? Don't you two hate each other?"
"The matches have started, you won't be getting any sleep anyway," HyunJoong rolled his eyes, turning his head to the side to glare at the dog. "And if you have a problem with where we stand, then you're just going to have to deal with it."
"Prickly cat, aren't you," the dog grinned, not seeming put-off at the least. "And you didn't answer my question."
"That would be because it's none of your business," JungMin huffed, pushing away from the wall in annoyance.
"What happened to talking pleasantly, everyone's so mean. If you keep glaring like that, your face is going to be stuck that way," DongHae informed HyunJoong. "Hardly intimidating."
"Why are dogs so irritating?" HyunJoong sighed, looking to JungMin. "Come on, my match is up next anyway, let the pup nap in peace. He'll need his rest."
Rolling his eyes, JungMin moved to head down the corridor.
"I hope I get to fight you at least once, cat," DongHae chuckled. "Maybe you'll treat smaller signs a little more politely after I fill your insides with metal."
"I treat signs politely, I just don't like you," HyunJoong call over his shoulder. "And good luck with that, I'm not afraid in the least by your metal."
"Denial isn't going to help you." The metal plating over the floor beneath the tiger turned sticky, clinging to the bottom of HyunJoong's shoes as he walked. "Good luck in your match, you're going to need it."
"You will too," HyunJoong said, glancing down at the flooring. Snorting softly, he tilted his head to the side, focusing on the flooring. A wave bubbled up from under his feet, the floor rising up and rolling towards the dog.
Seeing what was going on, JungMin half-turned to look back the corridor. Before the wave reached DongHae though, it melted back to the floor, negated by the dog. The other fighter was grinning, arms folded across his chest and still leaning casually against the doorframe. "Not bad...for a beginner. Keep practicing kitten, or our match will be very short."
Eyes narrowed, HyunJoong continued down the hall towards JungMin.
Waiting for HyunJoong to catch up, JungMin walked along beside him. "Stupid, cocky dog," he huffed. "At least you're all riled up for your fight now, I feel bad for your opponent."
"Me too," HyunJoong snarled, ears out and tail slashing in the air.
Wow, that had really gotten the tiger the wrong way if his half-form was out. JungMin sighed softly, figuring it was better not to say anything for the moment. It didn't take long to reach the viewing pit, where he could see they were cleaning up after the first match. A snake had nearly torn a poor rooster to pieces, loose feathers all over the place.
"This won't take long, I'll be right back," HyunJoong murmured, moving towards the gate. Unlike in the pretournament, the fighters would enter and exit through the main gates. Rolling his shoulders, he waited until the gates were up completely before stepping out into the arena. For the second tier, the rocky landscape had been removed and in it's place was a mini city block. Broken down buildings, street lamps and trash littering the pavement to complete the illusion.
Ignoring the cheers from the crowd, HyunJoong strode towards the main intersection, waiting for his opponent. The scent of ox filled his nose and he felt the ground trembling slightly as the ox came towards him from the other gate.
KyuJong watched from the viewing pit, attention on one of the large screens since he couldn't see past the buildings. He glanced towards where JungMin was watching the screen intently, before turning back just as the ox charged. They were in the same alley, nowhere for HyunJoong to run as the other fighter came at him.
HyunJoong didn't move, watching the ox charge closer and closer. Eyes narrowed, he gave a small shake of his head, skin hardening over. Stepping one foot back, he smirked as the ox kept coming, horns down.
The ox ran straight into what was essentially a steel wall. HyunJoong not even flinching when the horns deflected off his chest, though he scowled when his shirt was ripped a little. The ox staggered back, dizzy from the impact before he fell over onto his ass, eyes rolling up into the back of his head and passing out.
"And that concludes a very short match!" KyuHyun called over the roar of the crowd. "The Kim tiger moves on to the next round!"
JungMin snorted in amusement, grinning as he watched the screen. Talk about a hard head. Snickering, he went to wait by the gate, seeing the Kim's dragon trainer there as well.
When HyunJoong came out of the arena, he was pouting down at his torn shirt. "Stupid ox and their stupid horns," he muttered, looking up and seeing the two dragons. "What?"
"What, I was just standing here," Daniel chuckled, but clapped the tiger off the shoulder lightly. "Good match."
"I wasn't just standing here," JungMin grinned, looking down at the tear in HyunJoong's shirt. "Come on, let's get that fixed."
HyunJoong inclined his head slightly to Daniel. He probably wouldn't have been able to to do as well if it hadn't been for the older dragon. "Yeah... you've got a while before your match right?" he grinned at JungMin, pulling him away from the gate and down the hall. "The shirt's already ruined, might as well finish the job," he murmured into the dragon's ear.
"I like that idea," JungMin's eyes danced, one hand teasingly pulling at the tear. "Maybe I can also get a closer demonstration of this new fighting technique, without the shirt in the way."
"I think we can arrange that," HyunJoong chuckled, nearly dragging JungMin into his room, slamming the door behind them. They had a few hours, and neither of them cared about watching the other fights.
***********************
The morning passed slowly for those up in the viewing boxes, YunHo watching the few matches from those in his own house but mostly paying attention to YoungSaeng and those beside him. Most of his fighters weren't scheduled for today, but following days, which meant there was little to interest him in the arena.
KiBum had joined them again, taking up KyuJong's empty seat next to his brother. He seemed to have forgone any problems with HyungJoon to talk with him and distract him from the rabbit's upcoming match.
After the tiger's impressive performance, HyungJoon was actually in a relatively good mood, though it didn't last. Not with how quickly KyuJong's match was approaching, and that it was next. Leaning forward, he frowned down at the arena. "What's he up against again?" he asked his brother for the tenth time.
The younger brother exhaled slowly, keeping himself from getting annoyed. "A monkey. He'll be fine, okay hyung? From the news reports he went up against much tougher opponents than a monkey."
"Yes, but if a monkey got through then he's either good or he skated through in a better fighters team," HyungJoon said, chewing on his knuckle.
"I think this is the monkey that was on your horse and oxes team," YoungSaeng said quietly, opening his eyes from where he'd been resting against YunHo. "Unless there's another monkey, but I don't think there is."
"The monkey hardly did anything that match, Kyu will be fine," KiBum sighed, glancing at SooHyun beside him before turning his attention back to his brother. "Come on, you were going on and on about supporting the house before, what is this." He pulled HyungJoon's hand away from his mouth before he could break skin.
"Throw your goat in there and see how you feel," HyungJoon muttered, but he sat back, crossing his arms over his chest.
"KyuJong is a good fighter, he didn't win the pretournament for nothing," YoungSaeng said. "Yes it was be default, but he still would have competed in the final match."
"I'm not throwing SooHyun in there, that's the difference," KiBum's eyes narrowed. "You're the one who submitted those numbers, whether he insisted or not, you could have still taken him off the roster."
"They're starting," YunHo said to get their attention away from the argument, KyuHyun calling out the next names to fight as the gates opened below.
"I had four fighters, I submitted four numbers," HyungJoon countered lowly, glaring at his brother before leaning over to watch. "Not like I can say no to him anyway."
KyuJong and the monkey were stepping out of their respective gates, making their way to the center of the city block. KyuJong took in the arena around him, the spookiness of it all making his fur stand on end. He couldn't see any sign of green life in the twisted metal, and the concrete below his feet wouldn't be good for growing plants. But it was riddled with cracks, and he could see earth underneath...if he could make the plants strong enough to break the thin layer of concrete, he'd be able to fight with them.
Smelling monkey, he braced himself, letting a few seeds fall to the ground and roll into the cracks before the monkey appeared up above. Using the sign's flexibility to hold onto twisted balconies, the other fight dropped down from above, KyuJong rolling out of the way.
HyungJoon was completely focused on the fight leaning forward to look down into the street below. Even with the high vantage point though, it was hard to see what was going on without looking up at the cameras. KyuJong was definitely at a disadvantage in this arena, the monkey able to use the buildings surfaces like a jungle gym. "Just stay out in the open Kyu," he murmured to himself.
The monkey came at him from different sides, able to rebound and move quickly between the buildings. KyuJong dodged around the attacks, on the same line of thought as HyungJoon. The monkey was wearing himself down more like this, but the chances of being hit by an attack was too high. But was there any good place nearby for him to fight? Maybe he could catch the monkey if he had enough time. Sending some more energy to the dropped seeds, KyuJong took off down the street, flicking a few more seeds into the shadows. The monkey followed after him.
Making the monkey chase him back and forth through the street, KyuJong glanced over his shoulder to see where the other fighter had gone. Something slammed into him from the side, the rabbit crashing to the ground with a shout. The monkey had gotten him by surprise while he was distracted. Seeing another attack coming, KyuJong rolled out of the way just in time, the concrete crashing as the monkey landed hard right where his head had just been. The rabbit kicked up, feet planting into the fighter's chest and knocking the monkey away so he could get back up.
The monkey was trying to escape back to the balconies where he had an advantage. Not if KyuJong could help it. Pressing his hand against the wall, he summoned his plants, thin vines breaking through cracks in the concrete and weaving into the monkey's shoes to drag him back down.
When the monkey turned to face KyuJong again, he was greeted by the rabbit's powerful kick in the chest, slamming back into the wall. KyuJong landed on his rear, the horn blowing overhead as the monkey slumped to the ground, out cold.
Breathing a sigh of relief, HyungJoon leaned back again. "Good, good fight," he said, letting himself smile. There were definitely some jeers in the crowd, many people thinking the rabbit hadn't deserved his win. He was happy to hear a few cheers and shouts of encouragement though. "I don't have anymore matches today, just a couple tomorrow. Your dragon's last right? I'll stick around for that."
"There's still a while to go before that, you don't have to," YunHo chuckled, smiling at the other master. "You look exhausted, why don't you just take off for the night, we'll have plenty of opportunity to watch the fights tomorrow."
"I don't really feel like going back to an empty room," HyungJoon said with a soft sigh. "Unless you're kicking me out, but that wouldn't be very neighborly of you."
"Maybe you and your brother can do something," YoungSaeng suggested. "He doesn't seem like he wants to be here either."
"Not really," KiBum slouched in his seat.
"I'm not kicking you out, just suggesting," YunHo chuckled. "KiBum, why don't you and your hyung go get some fresh air."
"Don't have to tell me twice," the younger brother stood up. "You coming, hyung?"
HyungJoon winced a little, giving YunHo and YoungSaeng a wry look as he got to his feet. "Yeah, guess so," he said, hands in his pockets. "We can probably get some lunch while we're out, I just don't want to get caught by the protesters or anything," he said, heading for the door.
"They're not going to attack you or anything, they wouldn't be allowed here if it turned violent," KiBum shrugged, following him to the door. "Come on SooHyun, let's get something to eat. See you tomorrow YunHo, YoungSaeng."
"Have a good night," YunHo's lips quirked, watching them go.
SooHyun bowed politely to YoungSaeng and YunHo before scurrying out after the two brothers, closing the door behind them.
"Have they always fought like this?" YoungSaeng asked with a sigh, shaking his head. "I knew KiBum wasn't happy with the fights, but I always thought he looked up to HyungJoon, at least that's how he always sounded to me."
"I don't think the fighting was as bad before, but then again KiBum did spend four years studying in the city," YunHo mused, running his fingers lightly through YoungSaeng's hair. "That's a long time to be away from his only family, maybe they just need time to get used to each other again."
"Probably not the best time for KiBum to have come home then," YoungSaeng said, closing his eyes at the hand in his hair. "Their father's death really took its toll on them, I just hope the fighting doesn't get worse. You can tell they still care about each other."
"They do," YunHo nodded, sighing softly. "The tournament will be over in less than a month, then they can focus on getting to know each other again. I don't think they'll let this situation get between them forever."
"I should hope not," YoungSaeng murmured, shifting a little so he could sprawl over YunHo's lap. "That is if the tournament goes smoothly."
"Let's hope it does," YunHo sighed, smiling softly down at YoungSaeng and trailing his fingers over the snake's jawline. That reminded him though of what he'd realized in Zhou Mi's office the other day.
"RyeoWook told me the other day that the fighters planning on revolting were being rallied by a snake with blue and purple scales. I know many different snakes, and only one fits that description."
"Who?" YoungSaeng's eyes opened and blinked up at him.
"KyuHyun," YunHo murmured, looking up to see the referee snake calling out the hits for the current match from his balcony perch.
Sitting up, YoungSaeng looked at YunHo with confused eyes. "KyuHyun? The games commissioner's snake?" he confirmed lowly. "You think Zhou Mi knows about it?"
"I doubt it...it would be his duty as commissioner to stop it," YunHo shook his head, looking back down at YoungSaeng.
"But it's not like they wouldn't know who he is, word would get back to Zhou Mi," YoungSaeng said, frowning slightly. "Are you going to tell him?"
"I don't know," YunHo murmured. "I'm not even positive it is KyuHyun, but snakes with blue and purple scales aren't common around here."
"No, that's a very unique coloring," YoungSaeng said, pursing his lips. "What are we going to do? What if they really do revolt?"
"If they do, then I don't want you anywhere near here," YunHo frowned lightly, looking down at YoungSaeng. "It'll be far too dangerous."
"No, I'm not leaving you," the snake shook his head, scooting to sit on YunHo's lap. "You'll have to drag me away from here kicking and screaming."
"I don't want you to be hurt Saeng," YunHo wrapped his arms around YoungSaeng's waist, hugging him close. "I can't leave here until the tournament's over, but if the situation is getting dangerous, I don't want you caught in the crossfire."
Resting his cheek against YunHo's shoulder, YoungSaeng closed his eyes and sighed softly. "I don't want you hurt either, and not knowing would kill me," he said, curling his fingers into YunHo's shirt. "I'm not going anywhere, technically you can't make me leave."
"No, I can't...I can only ask you to," YunHo closed his eyes as well, running his fingers gently through YoungSaeng's hair. "Please be careful, Saeng..."
"I'll be careful," YoungSaeng promised, nuzzling into him more. "If anything, I'll go snake and hide in a hole somewhere if things get too bad," he quirked a smile.
"Just be careful not to get stepped on," YunHo kissed the other man's forehead. "That defeats the purpose."
"You worry too much," YoungSaeng murmured, closing his eyes. "How long do we have until the dragon's match? Can we get lunch?"
"I can call a servant up to get us something," YunHo chuckled softly, kissing along YoungSaeng's cheek. "Anything you want in particular?"
"Hmmm... too bad you're not on the menu," YoungSaeng chuckled, smiling at the kisses. "I'm not fussy, just no seafood."
"Got it," the other man smiled in return, kissing YoungSaeng's lips softly before pulling back. "You'll have to let me stand up though."
"You're comfortable though," YoungSaeng pouted, though he did shift a little to let YunHo get up. "How many rounds are there for this tier? Obviously KyuJong isn't going to be advanced right to the third tier now... right?"
"No, there are several different rounds in the second and third tier," YunHo shook his head, standing. "Four in this tier I believe...then they'll have narrowed it down to the top 16 fighters."
"That's a lot of matches," YoungSaeng said, stretching out along the seat. "How well do you think your fighters are going to do? Do you know when we're going to get a break? I thought the games would be a little more exciting than this but other than the occasional interesting match, it's just idiots hitting each other in the face."
"It gets more exciting the more the crowd is thinned out," YunHo chuckled, heading to the door and looking back. "Then you get to the fighters who live for the ring, and take it much further while fighting. We'll get a break soon, they spread the fights out the more the tournament goes on, so there will be a few days when none of my fighters are going up and we can rest." He leaned out into the hallway and spotted a servant, relaying the request for food.
"Fighters who live for the ring... like the Kim's tiger," YoungSaeng demurred. "So far his match and KyuJong's have been the only two interesting ones, even if the tiger's was short. All of his matches have been fairly short, he takes the fights more seriously than any other fighter I've watched."
"It is a pretty serious thing. Some fighters treat it differently depending on their personalities. But whether they treat it seriously or like a game, there are those who know the ring better than anyone else, and those few will show themselves as the other, less competent fighters are wiped out." YunHo stepped over to the seats again and sat down lightly on the edge.
"Well I guess I'll be paying more attention during the third tier then," YoungSaeng said, looking up at him. "You are glad I came with you aren't you?"
"I am glad," YunHo smiled down at him, cupping YoungSaeng's cheek lightly. "I just wish it wasn't so dangerous for you to be here."
Sitting up again, YoungSaeng wrapped his arms around YunHo's torso sideways and rested his chin on his shoulder. "I'm far safer here with you than I ever will be anywhere else," he said softly.
YunHo wrapped his arms around YoungSaeng in return, kissing the top of his head. "I'm just worried that if the revolt does happen, I won't be able to protect you," he murmured.
"I can protect myself," YoungSaeng said, wrinkling his nose a little. "I'm a rattlesnake, I'm not a defenseless garter snake."
"I know you can, but not against dozens of stampeding fighters," YunHo buried his nose in the other man's hair. "Can you blame me for being worried?"
"No, because I'm worried too," YoungSaeng said, leaning into him. A thought occurred to him and he pulled back to look into YunHo's eyes. "Master Kim... does he know?"
"About the possibility of a revolt? I don't know," YunHo frowned lightly. "KyuJong probably told him. Do you think we should bring it up tomorrow?"
"It wouldn't hurt," YoungSaeng said. "KyuJong's been with him all week and won't see him again until another rest day, and we only just found out from RyeoWook about it being a real concern."
"True," YunHo nodded. "All right, we'll bring it up with him then. KiBum as well, this really wasn't the best time to bring him to the tournament."
"In more ways than one," YoungSaeng sighed, closing his eyes again and leaning against him. "When's the next day we get to do something fun?" he asked with a pout.
Chuckling softly, YunHo leaned in to kiss the pout. "I don't think any of my fighters are up day after tomorrow. Why don't we take the day off? Do you want to go into the city again, or hide away in our room."
"Hmm... half in, half out?" YoungSaeng suggested, tilting his head to the side. "I wouldn't mind lounging through the morning and going out after lunch," he said, running his hand through YunHo's hair lightly.
"Then that's what we'll do," YunHo smiled softly down at him, eyes filled with adoration as he looked down at YoungSaeng. "Anything you like, that's what we'll do."
YoungSaeng raised an eyebrow. "Anything?" he asked in amusement, shifting to straddle YunHo's lap. "I've always wondered what it was like to be out in public like this, have the cheers from the crowd... interesting, no?"
Blinking, YunHo's lips curled in amusement, hands resting on the snake's hips. "Interesting for sure...does that mean lunch has been put on hold?"
"After lunch, so I don't go into a food coma," YoungSaeng grinned, leaning down to press his lips against YunHo's lightly. "That and we don't want to scar the poor servants who come in with the food."
"They should know better than to walk in without knocking," YunHo chuckled, kissing him back softly. "Something to look forward to."
"Definitely," YoungSaeng murmured around his lips. Just enjoying kissing him for a while, YoungSaeng begrudgingly let YunHo up when the servants came by with the food. They ate a nice meal, watching one of the matches going on below until they were done and their attention was no longer on anything but each other. Luckily they were high up enough that the crowd couldn't see into their box, but it was still a little thrilling to be in public together.