[fic] & bunny - chapter sixteen

[taintedkibou]

Title: & Bunny - chapter sixteen
Author/Artist: Cheza-chan
Pairing/Characters: Kaburagi Kotetsu / Barnaby Brooks Jr.
Rating: R (M for Mature)
Genre: Alternate Timeline; science-fiction; superheroes.
Disclaimer: I do not own the characters, and I definitely don't own the sponsors that they wear.
Summary/Notes:Taking Ben's advice, Kotetsu decides to separate himself from Hero TV and the Heroes of Sternbild.
[ chapter one ] [ chapter two ] [ chapter three ] [ chapter four ] [ chapter five ] [ chapter six ] [ chapter seven ] [ chapter eight ] [ chapter nine ] [ chapter ten ] [ chapter eleven ] [ chapter twelve ] [ chapter thirteen] [ chapter fourteen ]


Kaede bounded down the stairs excitedly, the scents of breakfast-along with the sunlight streaming through the window-having roused her from sleep. “Evelyn! Can I have an omelet again? Dinner was also… amazing…”

Kotetsu grinned at his daughter from behind the counter of the kitchenette. “Isn’t her cooking the best? What’d you have for dinner?”

Kaede smiled, moving toward one of the stools, carefully climbing on. “Slavinken.”

Kotetsu frowned. “No fair. Your meal is just one word.”

Kaede’s smile widened as she leaned forward, elbows atop the counter, head braced by her hands. “What did you have?”

“Voor… something-or-other.”

“Voorjaars groentesoep met balletjes?” Kaede asked sweetly.

Kotetsu’s mouth fell open. “How…? And why can you pronounce it so easily?!”

“Because, and this is the only time you’ll hear me say it… I’m still young, so I’m like a sponge.” Kaede laughed at her father’s ever-changing expression; impressed, envious, but most of all, he was happy. This was their reunion-no tears were needed. She lifted her head from her hands, folding her arms atop the counter. “What’s for breakfast?”

“Hotcakes,” Kotetsu told her, hurriedly turning back around to tend to his meal. “Slightly well done hotcakes.”

“I’m sure they taste just fine.”

The hot cakes were served. Kotetsu took a seat on the opposite side of the counter, across from Kaede, and they settled in to enjoy their breakfast.

“I talked to Karina,” Kaede stated once they were down to their last few pieces of hotcake. “She doesn’t remember me.” She pushed around a tiny piece of her breakfast, soaking up the remaining syrup, with no real intention of eating it. “Evelyn told me you weren’t the one in Wild Tiger’s suit.”

Kotetsu was puzzled at the first statement. “Karina doesn’t remember you? She asked about you plenty of times before…” He trailed off, dropping his head with a deep sigh. “So much has happened, Kaede. I don’t know where to start. I never thought I would see you again.”

“It’s okay.”

Kotetsu lifted his head and found his daughter standing at his side.

“It’s okay,” she repeated with a smile. “Because I’m here now, and we are together.”

Kotetsu grinned, leaning over to bump his shoulder against hers. “Why are you so much cooler than me?”

“Just because.” Kaede’s grin slowly whittled away until only a look of understanding remained. “Do you want to tell me… about it?”

Kotetsu stared at his daughter-into her eyes. He saw his wife, smiling at him, telling him to do what he did best: be a Hero. “Yes.”

For the remainder of the morning, father and daughter sat around-after cleaning up the kitchen-and caught up on the events of their lives; events that seemed to be intricately woven together. Kotetsu told Kaede of the kidnapping, his kidnappers-including Evelyn, and the android. When Kaede asked, he couldn’t answer her question of why Karina didn’t remember her, but promised they would find out together.

x

It was on their way to Apollon Media that Kotetsu pulled off to the side, parking so they could both stare at the breaking news taking over the monitors. His face was planted all over the screen, “Fugitive On The Run” heading up the shot. Beneath the image was his name; below that, his crime.

“Wanted for the attempted murder of 68-year-old Samantha Taylor,” Kaede read softly.

All Kotetsu could see was himself, blood red eyes glowing as he smiled darkly. “Not me… he did it. Samantha… That was Barnaby’s guardian! They’re-”

“Shh,” Kaede hissed, quickly glancing around. Luckily for them, everyone’s attention was captured by the broadcast, so none of the loitering citizens reacted to his outburst. Kotetsu bit down on his lip, silencing himself, and watched as the broadcast continued.

The image spun-his so-called mug shot moved to the upper right corner of the screen-to reveal the live coverage of Samantha’s house, police “caution” tape stretched across the front porch, police cruisers parked outside, and officers checking for more evidence. “Kotetsu T. Kaburagi’s fingerprints were found on a fireplace poker, which is believed to be the assault weapon, as well as in the victim’s home, the scene of the crime.”

Kotetsu ducked back into his SUV, clutching desperately at the steering wheel. “How…?” he choked out. “I… I didn’t-would never!”

Kaede was calmly closing her car door when static crackled through the vehicle, its source: the radio. Voices could barely be heard through the noise, then very clearly: “Sorry! Okay?!”

Kotetsu stared, wide-eyed, at the radio. “Radboud?”

“Yes, old man. Samantha’s as safe as she can be, recovering at the hospital. Ster’s watching over her to make sure no one tries again. The other adult… He’s… using Ebitsu. He… is you, so he possesses your fingerprints. Evy and I reached her before he could finish the job.”

Kaede hunched her shoulders up to her ears, drawing inward. There was another slight crackle, followed by another reluctant apology from the unseen NEXT.

“Is Evelyn with you?” Kotetsu asked, leaning closer to the radio. His eyes flickered up at the nearest monitor, which could be seen through the windshield. His face was still on the screen, broadcasting his location. Thank goodness they’d left the house when they did. Evelyn’s soft voice brought him back from the horror that continued to plague his life. He smiled weakly. “Evy. I need you to look after Kaede for me-”

“Dad!” Kaede gaped at him.

He gave her a glare in return. “I don’t want you getting involved any more than you already are.”

“That’s not fair!” Kaede cried in protest, throwing her hands up as far as they could go in the restricted space. “I promised-”

“We both made that promise,” Kotetsu interrupted, squeezing his eyes shut. “Evy, please.”

“Do you want me to keep her locked in the car?” Radboud questioned.

Kotetsu gave a short, soft laugh, “Yes.”

“No.” Kaede reached for the handle of her door, but no matter how hard she tugged and yanked-no matter how much she attempted to move the knob-the lock wouldn’t yield. She could very well break out of the car since her father was the last person she’d touched, but the destruction of property was unnecessary. “Come back,” she huffed, her back to Kotetsu, arms crossed. “I’ll never forgive you if…” She trailed off, not wanting to utter the words.

Kotetsu’s door was unlocked, and so he climbed out of the SUV. He closed the door, hearing the lock slide into place once more, and stared at Kaede’s back. He smiled sadly before turning and dashing across the street.

After several long moments, Kaede relaxed into the seat, letting her arms fall away from her chest. “Excuse me?” she called out, unsure if there was anyone still listening.

“Yeah?” Radboud muttered in response.

Kaede thought about it-her plans-and decided Evelyn was the one to trust. “I’d like to listen to the radio,” she stated instead.

“Ja. Evy will be there in a few minutes. We’re…” Kaede raised an eyebrow at the hesitant voice. “We’re doing everything we can to fix our mistake.”

Kaede’s chest rose and fell as she sighed quietly. The radio had nothing but news on Sternbild’s newest threat: Kotetsu T. Kaburagi. “Play me some music,” she sighed, closing her eyes. There was a soft whine, silence, and then Kaede smiled as her favorite song came through the speakers.

X x X x X

Kotetsu already knew going to Apollon Media’s building was a lost cause, if the phone call he’d made to Agnes was any proof. That failed attempt was the reason why he ducked down alleyways to conceal himself. Unfortunately, he hadn’t done too good a job, and was ambushed by his former colleagues. Escaping had been tricky, but he managed. Radboud operated via camera and other forms of technology, all of which the supposed criminal tried to stay away from. He was on his own. Or so he’d thought.

Eyes wide, Kotetsu stared at the glowing, crimson optics of the figure pinning him to the alley wall. “How-”

“Maverick’s wrapping Bunny back around his little finger,” the doppelganger spoke, eyes roving from Kotetsu’s eyes to his lips, then back again, recording the fear the man showed him. He chuckled softly at the new, surprised expression. “You didn’t know this whole thing was being orchestrated by Maverick? Shame on you, Kotetsu.” Ebitsu pressed his nose against Kotetsu’s, close enough to kiss him. “I don’t care about that. I’m you, so I’m not allowed near anyone.” He smirked. “It’s hard moving around when you’re a wanted criminal, but I’m sure you know that, don’t you?”

The fire returned to the NEXT’s eyes as he glared.

Ebitsu liked the resistance. “I need you,” he breathed, nose suddenly buried in Kotetsu’s neck. He felt the man stiffen even more beneath him. “I need you… to be whole. Bunny’s already been promised to me.”

Kotetsu’s eyes widened before narrowing. He maneuvered his hands between their bodies, shoving with all the force he could muster. The android stepped back, eyes studying the man he was modeled after. “Bunny’s not something to be owned,” Kotetsu shouted. “And neither am I! But you… you might be more sentient than Cis was, but she was still more human than you could ever hope to be!” His glare faltered after noticing the flicker in the machine’s eyes, but returned as he told himself it was probably just processing the information.

Kotetsu inched along the wall, wary of turning his back. He had to, however, and dashed away, heading further into the darkness. Ebitsu could have easily captured him, but he was being summoned. Sternbild’s Wild Tiger needed to capture a dangerous criminal.

X X X

After his escape from the doppelganger android, Kotetsu, unfortunately, had to travel the sewers, only to be chased out by none other than the queen of ice. Blue Rose managed to corner him at the back of a slum apartment complex, whose walls were coated with graffiti. Ironically enough, the wall at his back placed him in the center of a lovely bulls-eye mural.

“There’s nowhere for you to run.” Blue Rose’s voice controlled, her gaze as cold and unforgiving as the ice she controlled.

Kotetsu couldn’t see the ‘Karina’ he knew beneath the Hero getup at all, but it didn’t stop him from reaching out to her. “Blue Rose. Remember that time when you weren’t sure about your career? How I gave you a tip because I thought your singing was good?”

Blue Rose cocked her head slightly to the left, her expression bordering on bored. “What are you talking about? Wild Tiger was the one who tipped me.” She shifted her stance, moving a few paces to her left. “And how do you know about my private life?!”

Kotetsu shook his head, stepping away from the wall to stretch an arm outward in front of him. “Because I’m Wild Tiger-the real one!” He had no idea what Maverick had done to them. They were still aware of Wild Tiger-the Hero, but not the man behind the mask?

Blue Rose must have sensed his question, or seen it on his face, for she answered his thoughts with her following statements, “It’s true that nobody knows Wild Tiger’s true identity… but you have some nerve to make that claim just because we don’t know his face or name.” Kotetsu took a few steps closer, ready to continue pleading his case, but Blue Rose’s gun was now pointed at him. His hands shot up in surrender. “I don’t want to hear it,” she snapped, her glare unyielding. “I’ll show no mercy if you insist on talking such nonsense.”

Kotetsu snapped back, unable to keep his hurt bottled up any longer. “You’re the one who’s talking nonsense!” Blue Rose’s eyes widened at the outburst, but her gun remained trained on him. Kotetsu raised his hand, tapping it against his chest as he spoke, “Did you even forget about the time I gave you that towel, too? Remember? I spilled coffee on your towel and ruined it. And I gave you a really cool towel to replace it!”

Blue Rose’s eyes widened as a glimmer of recognition crossed her mind. Her glare returned as it passed, though.

Kotetsu saw an opening, though, and pressed on. “Don’t you have a pair of blue rose earrings? I brought those back after I returned from Oriental Town. My daughter-” His eyes widened. “Kaede! Don’t you remember her?!”

“Ka…e…de…” The name brought a strength feeling and a glimpse of an ice rose. The earrings-she knew they were special, but couldn’t remember who had given them to her. Her arm faltered, fingers trembling around the gun as her vision blurred. “Wi…ld-”

The wall behind Kotetsu exploded, throwing him forward several yards. He righted himself to his knees, waiting for the dust cloud to settle. Heavy, mechanical footsteps echoed off the walls around them. The bright light of the dark suit shone brightly. “No…” Kotetsu choked out. He’d seen it on the television before, but seeing it up close now almost suffocated him. The new suit, the one created for his replacement android, stood in front of the gaping hole in the wall.

Ebitsu watched Kotetsu’s shocked expression gradually turn into a frustrated scowl. He licked his lips, eager to taste the missing part of him. He made the first move, initiating the dance that involved them exchanging a few blows. Maverick hadn’t lifted his limiter-he didn’t think the old man knew how to-so he had to make do with his own natural talent. After marginally dodging a close punch from him, Kotetsu managed to shoulder throw his opponent.

Ebitsu stayed grounded for a few moments, making a quick assessment of the suit and himself to see if any damage was done. None. He stood effortlessly, putting on a show of relieving any kinks in his neck. He smirked at Kotetsu’s wide-eyed stare. Instead of continuing their scrap, Kotetsu attempted to flee. Wild Tiger wasn’t having it. Deploying the grappling hook from the right arm of the suit, it wrapped around Kotetsu’s ankle, yanking him from his own wire and back down onto the debris-littered street.

Ebitsu zoomed in on Kotetsu’s terrified expression as he began retracting the lighted grappling wire. Unlike the other Heroes, this man knew who he was behind the mask; who he wanted. Kotetsu clawed at the concrete he was being dragged along, desperate to free himself, but having no means of doing so. There was always his waning abilities, but the wait time between could very well be his downfall. He turned over onto his back, staring up at what was once his helmet. Just like the man behind the faceplate, the suit was just a copy of the original.

Ebitsu tugged his arm, hoping to encourage the cord to speed along. He didn’t care to hear what the fire-using NEXT that had arrived moments gushed about, and dutifully ignored him.

Kotetsu couldn’t, however, watch the way Fire Emblem cuddled up to the fake, just like he used to do with him. He looked desperately to Blue Rose, but she refused to meet his gaze as she walked to the fake Wild Tiger. “Have you… really forgotten who I am?” he murmured, his voice hoarse and broken.

“A wanted criminal,” Fire Emblem scoffed. He raised a hand, waving it in disgust at Kotetsu. “Hurry and take him away.”

With pleasure. Smirking, Ebitsu started for the NEXT.

“Is this how it’s going to end for you?”

Ebitsu whipped around at the new voice, glaring from behind his faceplate at the vigilante NEXT standing high above them. Lunatic’s gloved hand was already ablaze with his trademark blue flame. When Lunatic armed his crossbow, Ebitsu wanted nothing more than to override his programming to keep what belonged to him from being turned to ash, but he never budged. The blazing arrow was fired, but it cut through the wire keeping him connected to Kotetsu, freeing the man.

Why do they all take his side? He’d seen the girl waver under Kotetsu’s emotional outburst, and now this. Lifting his arm, the android studied the cut wire with a hidden scowl, dropping the appendage back to his side shortly after. A wall of blue flames burned fiercely, separating him from what he wanted-what he needed. Lunatic only gave the trio of Sternbild’s Heroes his attention once Kotetsu managed to safely escape the dead end, crossbow pointed only at the black Wild Tiger suit.

Screw the voice of Thanatos, this was just another obstacle that needed removing.

X x X x X

Radboud had unlocked the doors of the SUV after Evelyn arrived, granting Kaede her freedom. They both remained next to the vehicle, watching the altercation between Wild Tiger and Kotetsu. Kaede shook her head after the cameras lost sight of her father, and began walking away, Evelyn in tow. Not sure how much of a “plan” it was, she informed her escort of her intentions, and they made their way to Apollon Media. Evelyn remained outside, not wanting to be recognized, but kept Kaede in sight through the glass doors.

There was someone different at the main desk today, but Kaede once again asked to speak with Barnaby. She wanted to see if he’d also forgotten who she was, as Karina had.

The receptionist opened her mouth to respond, but after glancing to her right, she closed it, leaning back to stand straight. Kaede turned left and found herself staring up at a suited, bespectacled man, just shy of being on the port side. Hand tucked behind his back, the white-haired man smiled down at her. Kaede couldn’t bring herself to smile back; something about the man was unsettling. “Are you here for Barnaby?”

“Yes,” Kaede replied quickly.

The bespectacled man’s smile widened and he lowered himself to be closer to Kaede; she stood her ground. He placed a hand atop her head and Kaede shuddered involuntarily. “I’m sure you’re aware of the crisis we’re facing at the moment. Barnaby, along with the other Heroes are out fighting to make sure you can sleep safely at night.”

Kaede smiled tightly. Half of what was being told to her was a lie; yes, the Heroes made sure they were all safe, but her father was no criminal. She nodded her head once the hand had been lifted away. “I’m sorry for the inconvenience, thank you.” She bowed politely, but remained in place. The older man moved around her, content with continuing on his destination.

Evelyn saw him coming and casually moved down the steps to the lines of trees two flights down. She felt more comfortable around foliage and relaxed against the tree trunk. If Maverick noticed her, her gave no indication, and descended the stairs to the waiting car below on the curb. Evelyn could see that someone else, other than the driver, waited in the car, and she didn’t even have to guess as to who it might be. Ascending the steps to the building, she headed inside and found Kaede in the lobby, seated in a section close to the wall. She took the seat across from the child-a small table sat between them-and gave her a smile.

Kaede returned it, sighing softly, “I don’t know what I’m doing.”

“I’m sure your father has no idea what he’s doing either.” Evelyn’s smile became gentler as she thought about the man that had been branded as everyone’s enemy. “But that’s not stopping him, is it?”

“It never does,” Kaede giggled.

“Not even… at this moment.”

The young girl followed the redhead’s stare and her eyes widened at what the center tower display of monitors broadcasted for everyone in the building to see. Kaede managed to catch some of the marquee that scrolled beneath the image of Kotetsu, posing, in his old Wild Tiger suit: …Kaburagi has appeared above the rooftop of Apollon Media. “Dad…?” she breathed out in disbelief. The evacuation of the building began shortly afterwards, and they were herded outside.

It wasn’t difficult finding another screen to monitor the standoff between fugitive and Heroes, as the media had them labeled. And all Kaede could do was stand there and watch. Watch as her father tried to plead his case instead of fighting; watch as what had been former friends and colleagues raised their arms against him instead of with him. Kaede would have smiled at some of the private information being disclosed about the other Heroes, but she was more concerned about her father’s safety. When every Hero being recorded answered affirmative to Kotetsu’s question of whether or not he looked like someone who would kill a person, Kaede’d had enough. “I’m going up there,” she told her temporary guardian.

“No, you don’t.” The statement wasn’t from Evelyn.

Kaede relaxed, staring as the screen panned toward Blue Rose. The teenage Hero no longer appeared to be struggling with her thoughts as she spoke, and the words came out clear and honest, “I can’t see this person as being a murderer.” She looked to her fellow Heroes as she continued to plead Kotetsu’s case. “If he really is the culprit, then why is he trying so hard to prove his innocence?”

But then the moment was ruined by Rock Bison, and Kaede made a mental note to give him a good lecture once this was all over. She shoot Evelyn an apologetic look before taking off for the stairs she hoped would take her to where her father was being cornered.

Blue Rose broke the circle that surrounded Kotetsu, moving to its center to stand in front of the man.

“Blue Rose!” Fire Emblem gasped in indignation.

“He’s not a criminal,” she stated softly, glaring at the other Sternbild Heroes. “Have you ever known any of the culprits we’ve captured to look this… defeated, even after realizing they had no chance of escape?! He’s basically… giving up now. No criminal… would do that.”

Kotetsu chuckled softly. “Oi, Karina…” The only people that heard him address her by her real name were those on the HeroTV frequency. Blue Rose turned to face him and he couldn’t help the relieved grin that spread across his face as he saw the recognition in his eyes. It lasted only a moment, though.

Fire Emblem stepped forward, snagging the teenager by the arms to drag her away. “Are you crazy-aiding a criminal!”

Blue Rose shook her head, struggling to free herself. “He’s not! He’s… Tiger!”

Sky High was the one that took Kotetsu’s wrist, signaling the arrest of the fugitive they’d chased through all stages of Sternbild City.

“Wait!” Kaede was still a flight of stairs away, but she had everyone’s attention with her outburst. She ignored her father’s look of irritation and took a few moments to collect her breath. “My Dad didn’t do it!” She knew, because of her sudden appearance, the cameras were now focused on her.

“Young lady,” Sky High started as the child began climbing the steps, still holding tight to Kotetsu’s wrist. “This person has done something very bad.”

It hurt, hearing that, because she knew that Keith respected her father as much as she did. “That’s a lie!” she cried, finally cresting the stairs to stand on the same level as everyone else.

“I understand how you feel-”

Blue Rose cut Fire Emblem off, jerking free of his lax grip. She glared at him, backing away from the group. “You don’t. You don’t understand how we feel.” Turning, she rushed to the young girl. “Kaede,” she breathed. “I’m sorry that I forgot. I’m sorry… for everything that’s happening now.”

Accepting the apology and gathering strength from the teenage NEXT, Kaede squared her shoulders, and turned her teary-eyed glare on the remainder of the group that refused to believe. “How could you… how could you forget him?” She fisted her hands at her sides, body outlined by a blue glow. “He’s protected this city-everyone in it, including you!”

Dragon Kid was the only one whose face could be seen-Fire Emblem hid the lower half of his face behind his hand, and his eyes were downcast-and Kaede could only hope the other Heroes felt as regrettable as the young NEXT looked. “If you won’t appreciate him…” She gave them all another quick glance before squeezing her eyes shut. “If you won’t, then you don’t deserve him… and you need to give him back.” Kaede tilted her head, screaming to the heavens, “Give me back my dad!”

The light streamed away from her body, gathering overhead and swirling together. Fueled by the emotions she poured into it, it continued to grow brighter and brighter as its size increased. Everyone backed away, staring in wonderment, but unsure of what to make of the burst of power from the child. Unable to contain itself anymore, the sphere of energy exploded.

Blue Rose held her hands against her chest, feeling warm as the light flooded down over them. She opened her eyes and stared at the others; everyone appeared to be confused, but she was even more clear-headed than before. The streak of pink light through the air was the only warning they received, and Rock Bison acted impulsively, darting in front of Kotetsu, arms crossed protectively in front of himself to accept the high-velocity kick. He never budged, and threw his arms open, forcing Barnaby to flip backwards and land on the roof. “Calm down, Barnaby!”

Fire Emblem stepped up to Rock Bison’s side, extending an arm in the King of Hero’s direction. “He’s your partner!” he declared, the words feeling right as he realized it was the truth.

“What are you talking about?” Barnaby snapped back. “This man… this man is a criminal! My partner…” There was another stream of light that tore through the orange-lit sky. The landing was a little more volatile, but when the smoke cleared, the dark Wild Tiger suit stood next to Barnaby. “My partner is Wild Tiger,” the young man finished, staring through the crowd and straight at whom he knew to be the real imposter. “Why did you do it?!” he shouted.

Kotetsu could practically feel the disgust and hatred radiating from the young man. There was nothing he could say that would make Barnaby change his mind, but maybe if he took action? Separating himself away from the group, wanting to keep their fight as far away from his friends and family as possible, Kotetsu ran to the edge of the roof, leaping off without a word. If anything were to happen to him, he knew Kaede would be well taken care of.

“You can’t escape!” Barnaby headed for the same ledge, disappearing off the building.

The remaining NEXT were left with the dark suit. Wild Tiger’s hand rose, his thumb pushing up the faceplate. Kaede took a step back, her eyes wide, and her hand muffling her gasp. Blue Rose moved protectively in front of her. “What’s wrong, Kaede?” the android questioned, his tone jovial as he spread his arms. “You wanted me back. Here I am!”

“Is it… really… Tiger?” Dragon Kid questioned. As the only one without a mask or helmet, her shock was clear for everyone else to see.

“No.” Origami Cyclone took on a defensive stance beside her. “It’s the person we were persuaded to believe is him.”

“But he looks just like…” Blue Rose remembered all the instances where she felt Kotetsu was not Kotetsu. “We were being fooled, for so long,” she forced out, her voice trembling.

The crimson gaze landed on her, and the doppelganger smirked. His suit lit up, warning Blue Rose that an attack was forthcoming. She turned, hugging Kaede close as she brought a thick sheet of ice up around them. Her eyes widened as the imposter tore through her defense as though it were made of paper. Kaede clutched at the teen’s arms, helping her to stay upright. The remaining Heroes created a wall between the girls and the fake Wild Tiger.

Ebitsu smirked, the gesture disappearing as his face was once again hidden by the faceplate of his helmet. He fell into a fighting stance. With his limiter finally lifted, he would enjoy this.

X X X

After rejoicing in the fact that Saito remembered him, and reminiscing in the familiar feel of his old “new” suit, the real Wild Tiger set out to help Barnaby remember. They left a mess behind them on the streets of the Stern Medaille area, Kotetsu leading the way while Barnaby steadily chased him, relentless in serving him justice for his attack on Samantha. He led them to the edge of the city, to the place where they first met; Kotetsu told Barnaby this, hoping it would jog his forgotten memory. There was no time to admire the serene beauty of the scene as the sun slowly set beside them, as Barnaby revved his motorcycle again, forcing Kotetsu to do the same in order to not be captured.

The former Hero Duo rode down the double leaf bascule bridge that overlooked the shimmering water of the city. They ended up on opposite sides, each at the edge of the seam where the span was located. Ironically enough, the bridge was separating and rising to make way for the cruise ship passing through. The cables retracted, slowly lifting the wide spans, obscuring each NEXT’s view of the other. Listening to the rev of Barnaby’s motorcycle, Kotetsu realized this would be his last chance. He gunned his own bike, shooting up the bridge leaf that was almost at a vertical angle. Both activated their abilities, their suits lighting up in its respective color, and they clashed head on.

Landing on the flat part of the bridge, they continued to exchange blows. They were both emotional wrecks, but Barnaby’s rage was actually a deterrent/detriment. That was the only logical reason as to why, after throwing simultaneous punches, Kotetsu’s connected with more force than the younger NEXT’s, causing Barnaby’s helmet to be knocked off, the faceplate cracked. The telltale sound of HeroTV’s flight crew was nowhere to be heard, which means they had the bridge to themselves.

Kotetsu backed away and held up his hands in surrender, no longer wanting to fight. “Why won’t… you remember me?”

Barnaby glared at the man across from him. “Still yammering on about nonsense,” he spat. “The only thing I need to know about you is that you’re an imposter that doesn’t know when to quit!” He launched himself at his target, rage clouding his better judgment. If there was an ounce of rationality left in Barnaby, he would have wondered why the criminal made no attempt to escape, but the thought never crossed his mind. All that mattered was the man pinned beneath him.

Kotetsu had no fight left, and his body was quick to let him know that, the time on his ability running short just as Barnaby finished pummeling him. Barnaby followed up with a fierce kick that sent the other man crashing into the solid guard rail of the bridge. Kotetsu slumped there, remembering their first meeting and every meeting after that. His heart seized as he realized he would never be able to profess his love, and a shuddering breath escaped him. He staggered to his feet, watching as the blond approached him. The tears burned his eyes, spilling over and down his cheeks as Barnaby stalked forward, his loathing glare never abating. “Don’t… don’t look at me like that. Try to remember!”

“Shut up!” Barnaby delivered another punch, forcing the older man to his hands and knees. The green lights of what he saw as a stolen suit flickered then faded. A kick sent Kotetsu rolling over onto his back. “You’re a disgrace! How dare you bring shame to the Wild Tiger name?!” He placed his weight into his leg, the foot atop the man’s chest keeping him pinned to the ground.

Kotetsu felt as though death would be a welcome deal right at this point; Barnaby’s words hurt more than any physical attack ever would. “I’m your partner, Bunny,” he whispered, his voice cracking. “Please… please remember me.” The weight on his chest vanished and Kotetsu opened his eyes, blinking away the tears. He watched Barnaby stagger away, a hand pressed to his temple. He propped himself up on his elbows, concern etched across his face. “Bunny…? Are you okay?”

The blond head lifted, green eyes glaring at the floored man. “How many times do I have to tell you, old man? My name’s Barnaby.”

Kotetsu hurriedly scrambled to his feet, wincing at the pain the sudden movement brought. “Bunny? Do you… remember me?”

Barnaby straightened up, rolling his eyes. “Kotetsu-san. I don’t find this funny at all.” With a laugh, Kotetsu stumbled the distance to the young man, throwing his arms around him to bring him in close for a hug. Instead of protesting, Barnaby returned the embrace, worried at the tears he could feel staining his cheeks, coming from his partner.

Kotetsu pulled back, studying Barnaby’s expression to make sure he wasn’t imagining things. The whisper of his name and the gentle touch to wipe away his tears relieved him of all his doubts. Grinning, he pressed his lips to Barnaby’s. “I’ve missed you so much, Bunny.”

Barnaby could do nothing to stop the blush creeping into his cheeks. “What are you talking about?” he muttered. “We’ve been together since…” His eyes widened. “Maverick! Maverick called us all together. You were there, but it wasn’t… you.” He grimaced, freeing a hand to touch his temple. “God. I’m so sorry, Kotetsu.”

Kotetsu stepped from the other man, laughing, a hand tucked behind his head. “Apology accepted!”

The squeal of tires brought their reunion to an end and both Heroes turned to greet the newcomer with glares.

X x X x X

Ebitsu stood in the shadows of Maverick’s surveillance room, watching his missing pieces converse with Ben. They were lost to him. He would never get them back now, because Maverick was already planning to find a new pawn to play in his game. The task would fall upon him to take them out, which meant that he was going to always be incomplete.

Maverick waited until everyone had settled into the Apollon Media trailer, driven by Saito, and was planning their next move before he executed his own plans. He pulled the blue-lined PDA band out, placing a sound-only call to the real Wild Tiger. Kotetsu’s surprise at his own band working again could be seen on the monitor, but it was won over by relief at the name of his caller.

“Blue Rose! We’re heading over right now! Barnaby’s with me!”

Maverick smirked, waiting a few moments before ruining the surprise, “How unfortunate,” he drawled, his eyes glued to the screen to gauge the men’s reactions, “that it has to come to this.” Ignoring Kotetsu’s question, he continued his spiel, “Wild Tiger… If you had allowed yourself to be captured, no one would have had to get hurt.” Maverick lifted a hand, waving it lightly over his shoulder.

That was his cue to set out. Ebitsu uncrossed his arms, turning away from the monitors, despite wanting to stay. Logic won out as he walked through the shadows towards the door. He would be meeting the real deal in a few minutes and he would enjoy every second of it. A smirk tugged on his lips as he walked through the door that slid open upon his arrival.

X X X

The moment they stepped off the elevator and began shouting, he tracked their movements despite being in standby mode. Wearing the dark Wild Tiger suit, the android stood motionless in front of the large circuitry unit, awaiting the order to attack. Kotetsu didn’t want to get any nearer to it; he’d had enough encounters with the machine to last a lifetime.

Barnaby, however, was curious, and took a few steps ahead of the older man. “Who’s…? Is there someone in the suit, Kotetsu?”

Kotetsu gritted his teeth, “In a sense.”

Ebitsu allowed himself a small smirk and let the faceplate of his suit snap upward. Unfortunately, the ‘missing parts’ of him were still hidden behind their own helmets, so he could only imagine the unguarded look of horror on the blond’s face. He could hear the entire conversation taking place on the hacked feed that broadcasted back to them, but he ignored it, momentarily slipping back into standby mode. He tuned in when his “sister”-Cis-was mentioned, but scowled at the new title Rotwang had given him. H-01. Ebitsu.

Ebitsu recalled the time spent with his original creator. Did he miss it? Maybe. He’d had more time with both Kotetsu and Barnaby; he’d given his all to make the world believe that he was the real Kaburagi T. Kotetsu. His new owners saw him as nothing more than a tool.

Androids are the perfect embodiment of justice. Only if it’s in the programming. This H-01-Ebitsu-operated with an AI.

H-01 will replace all of you NEXT- Only until an H-02 is created and he becomes obsolete.

-and will be this city’s new Hero Anybody could be a Hero-human, NEXT, even an animal. Why did these people cling so tightly and lovingly to the title?

Ebitsu opened his eyes slowly, the crimson light in them burning brightly. He smirked at the two men across from him before the faceplate hid him away, just like they were hidden. He tilted his head forward, listening to the soft whir of the suit as he did so. The suit came with new toys that he wanted to show off. Rotwang had persisted on making upgrades to him, but was easily persuaded to put them in the dozens and dozens of copies being made, with a cruel smile that promised pain. The man was beneath even the sub-humans he hated so passionately.

A panel opened up on the side of his right leg and Ebitsu reached down for the gun, giving his wrist an upward snap so the weapon could be displayed at its fullest. With a cocky grin that could probably be read in his body language, he took aim, firing without hesitation. Barnaby managed to knock Kotetsu out of the way, and the plasma blast took out the wall behind the two Heroes. He fired another shot at Kotetsu when the older man attempted to regain his footing. Smirking behind his faceplate, he continued to chase them, stopping only to give them a moment to catch their breaths. Ebitsu decided the moment was over and revealed the blade in his left arm, slicing through the metal staircase the duo hid behind.

X

Ebitsu grew bored after he continued to chase his prey around their confined space. Even after their own powers finally returned-even when they managed to divest him of his plasma gun, the game had already soured by then. This wasn’t how he wanted to play with them. Crimson eyes shone brightly, and he severed the feed that contained him and the two Heroes everyone’s hopes were riding on; some wanted them to win against him, others wanted them to fail miserably. Not before showing them all the damage he was capable of by almost severing Barnaby’s arm from his body. A jagged gash was now present in the armor material of the young man’s suit.

Cutting the audio, not wanting to hear Rotwang’s enraged shouts, Ebitsu put on an extra burst of speed as he went after Kotetsu. He evaded the man’s reach, his helmet snapping open as he spun behind him. “I’ve missed you,” he whispered.

With a shout, Kotetsu threw his elbow back, but the android ducked out of the way, and he quickly found his legs kicked out from under him. It wasn’t his first time being on his back for the night, but it was the first time where his heart rate accelerated, and not from the effort he put into the battle. Ebitsu forced the real Wild Tiger’s helmet open, smirking down at the masked glare thrown up at him. The green-lit parts of Kotetsu’s suit shone brightly as he tried his damndest to get the machine off him, but his efforts only made it grin even more.

Ebitsu heard the movement of Wild Tiger’s partner as he came up behind him, but easily flipped out of the way, catching Barnaby in the back with a kick that sent him sprawling forward. He came back down with more force than necessary-it was unavoidable, but Kotetsu was once again beneath him. Their helmets were in the way, but he wanted a taste. Just one more taste. Ebitsu removed his helmet and angled his head, pressing his lips to Kotetsu’s. The man attempted to wriggle away, but he wasn’t letting go.

Kotetsu managed to get a fistful of the android’s dark hair and successfully yanked him away. “Wait…” he panted.

Wait? Not “stop”? Ebitsu studied the man’s face, finding uncertainty, a hint of reluctance, but no fear. “You… what are you planning?”

Kotetsu chuckled dryly, “What can I plan? We’re beat.” He closed his eyes. “The only good thing… is that we’ll all be going together.”

“You don’t give up.”

For a machine, Kotetsu heard a lot of emotion in the soft-spoken statement. He grinned, slowly opening his eyes. “I don’t, do I?”

He tracked and processed the movements too late, and the android found his arms locked in the air, the strong hands on the back of his head keeping him from being able to properly break free without damaging something of his own. But it didn’t stop him from trying, and they stumbled together, Kotetsu refusing to let go.

“Bunny!” Kotetsu shouted, startling the other NEXT back to reality. “Take him down with that!”

Barnaby looked around and he found that the plasma gun that had been used against them was less than a yard away from where he knelt. He hesitated, turning back to the struggling pair. “But what about you?”

“Don’t worry about me!” Kotetsu couldn’t, for a second, take his mind off the machine trapped against him. It really would be the end if he broke concentration. They twisted away and he twisted them back, wanting to give Barnaby as clear a shot as any. “I’ll dodge before it hits.” Barnaby tried to argue, but Kotetsu cut him off. “I’ll be all right,” he reassured the younger Hero.

“No!” Ebitsu snarled when Barnaby picked up the weapon, increasing his struggles to free himself. Kotetsu retaliated by bending his neck forward at an even more risky angle.

It helped-not having to see two of Kotetsu, but the face he was left staring at was the real one; the one begging for him to shoot. Taking a deep breath, Barnaby steadied his hands. The imposter was brought back into view and he pulled the trigger.