100 Years of Atonement

by mushroomsandteeth

Summary:

The thing about Plants is both humanity and the Plants themselves were still learning about them. A continuous mystery, never truly understood. For example neither Vash nor Knives knew when they both died they would once again be born into the world. Or that they would be the only ones who could remember their previous lives.

Nai had decided to use these new cycles to try and repair his broken relationship with his brother and atone for his past mistakes. Trying to forget about as much of the past as he can. However he wasn't expecting to be forced to confront his past sins when Legato is suddenly thrusted into his life again.

Chapter 1

The thing about Plants is both humanity and the Plants themselves were still learning about them. A continuous mystery, never truly understood. For example neither Vash nor Knives knew when they both died they would once again be born into the world. Or that they would be the only ones who could remember their previous lives.

The first time it happened was horrific. The brothers slowly gained sentience as they grew. And as they did so came back the horrible memories. The genocide, the violence, the war between them. Knives died first from stress at the ripe age of four months. Vash died a few days later.

The second time they both were able to calm down enough to register what was happening. Once again they were twins, born from a Plant. Once again Rem Saverem was the one that found them. This time she was Plant engineer in the slowly rebuilding city of December. The brother's kept their knowledge of their past lives secret from everyone but each other. Vash bloomed into this new life, cherishing every moment he got to spend with Rem. He found new versions of old friends, and even found love with a particular chain smoking priest.

Knives meanwhile fell inward. He pulled back, cold and alone. He never touched anyone's life except for Vash's, gently supporting his brother's happiness. He became a quiet observer of humanity, he drifted outside of their world. The only thing he did was help Rem and the other scientists maintain and heal the Plants along with the development of geo flora for No Man's Land. They were able to learn how to clone Plants again but Knives didn't celebrate this massive victory. You don't celebrate atonement.

It took a while for Vash to realize that Knives was killing himself. His hair turned black before they reached 100. He pushed himself, creating more and more flora to support humanity in its struggle to recover, and to take the pressure off of his sisters. His last run made iles of fertile soil and farmlands outside of December. Vash was alone for 100 years after that until he faded into the next cycle as well.

"Okay, so promise me you won't do something that stupid again!" Vash growled, gently touching his forehead to one of his sister's tanks.

The newest cycle started very similar to the second, under Rem's care in December. They were still Plant engineers and currently were 8 years into it.

"I don't follow." Nai said, writing down some readings.

"You know exactly what I mean! I was alone for 100 years Nai!" Vash turned from the tank to glare at him, the blue markings around his face glowing bright in his irritation.

"I honestly thought you would enjoy not having to worry about me." Nai said moving to the next tank, "Hi sis, how are you feeling?" He gently put a hand to the glass, the Plant inside placing her hand across from his.

"Don't ignore me! And no I didn't enjoy it I felt horrible!" Vash stomped over, joining Nai in communing with his sister.

Nai chuckled softly, "Are you sure? Not secretly relieved the genocidal maniac was dead for a while?"

Vash frown deeply at his brother, his shoulder's sinking, "Nai you... you aren't like that anymore. You literally did nothing all last cycle but help Plants and humanity. You made December a paradise."

Nai paused for just a moment, "Paradise..." He took his hand away from the glass and looked back down at the clipboard, "Yeah right. You always forgive too easy."

Vash grabbed the board and pushed it out of the way, staring at his brother. "When are you going to forgive yourself? What is enough?"

Nai smirked at him, "I don't know Vash. What was enough for you? You didn't commit any sins yet your body was riddled with scars to atone for mine."

Vash's mouth opened slightly to protest but the words never came. Nai put the clipboard on a table next to them and pulled his brother into a tight hug.

"I'll try to maintain myself a little better this time." Nai murmured, "For you."

Vash sighed softly, sinking into Nai's arms, "You are doing so much better. You have become kind."

"I'm not kind Vash, I just gave up. I'm just trying to mitigate as much damage as possible. We cannot save everyone. Our sisters are still being exploited... but if I fight you on this, I lose you. So I'm trying to see things your way. I really am." Nai mumbled into Vash's shoulder.

Vash chuckled, "That's really all I'm asking for. For you to try. And to please not kill anyone and don't chop off my arm."

"God you are demanding." Nai said under his breath.

"Aw, look at you two getting along!" Rem said, coming into the Plant room.

"Rem!" Vash let go of Nai and ran over to her. "Good morning! Did you sleep well?"

Nai watched his brother run off, his shoulder's slumping slightly. He found it rather humorous that even after such a heartfelt moment, Vash so quickly would remind him their love would always be second. Nai couldn't hold a candle to Rem or the rest of humanity. He never could.

"Yes I did, thank you." Rem stumbled back a step as Vash wrapped his arms tightly around her. "How are the Plants today?"

"All of our sisters are fine. Lily's tank solution is getting a little alkaline so we will be adjusting that." Nai said stepping over.

Rem let go of Vash to give Nai a hug, "Good work you two." Nai carefully hugged her back, looking away from both of them.

"Well have you eaten breakfast yet? I'm getting pretty hungry." Vash said.

"No I haven't. You two want to join me?" Rem offered.

"You two go ahead. Food doesn't really interest me." Nai turned back toward the tanks.

Vash grabbed his hand as he turned, "Come on Nai, hang out with us at least. I know you enjoy black coffee."

Nai looked over his shoulder, "...Fine."

They headed down to the cafeteria of the Plant facility. It actually was a room Nai rather enjoyed. They had built it so it over looked the fields he had created. A gentle reminder of his efforts. Vash got their food for them and when he set down Nai's coffee he also gave him a plate with a doughnut on it.

"Vash..." Nai started to complain.

"Wait wait wait!" Vash flailed his hands grinning, "Before you reject it I have some exciting news."

Nai raised an eyebrow.

Vash's smile couldn't get much larger as he held in his announcement just long enough to build tension. "It's not made from a Plant Nai. It's made from wheat. Real wheat! The head chef just told me."

Nai practically tipped his chair over standing. "They are switching to flora ingredients!?"

Vash make a high pitched noise of excitement, nodding to his brother. Nai let out a cheer and grabbed Vash up, swinging him around.

"We did it! We finally did it!" Nai shouted.

"Boys! Boys! Calm down!" Rem laughed as Vash and Nai continued to spin.

"I can't believe!" Nai put Vash down, "This is incredible!"

"They said this is just a small substitution but they hope to make more soon." Vash's smile could barely be contained on his face.

Nai sat back down, throwing his head back to stare at the ceiling. His efforts were finally paying off. Years upon decades of forcing his own gate into overdrive to pull anything living from the soil of No Man's Land. He for a brief moment was able to see a future like the one Vash wanted. A future where he could be wrong and actually be happy about it. He closed his eyes as tears began to sting his eyes.

"Nai I had no idea you would be this invested in flora productions. I know its a bit of a passion project, but you are really getting worked up." Rem reached over to gently touch his shoulder.

Nai rubbed his eyes, "Yeah I just, I'm just really happy Rem."

Vash had the goofiest grin on his face, watching his brother become overwhelmed with emotions. Nai picked up the doughnut off his plate and studied it for a moment before taking a bite.

"Well? How is it?" Rem and Vash leaned in.

Nai chewed for a moment before looking up at them, "...I still don't like eating." Vash and Rem both deflated looking disappointed. Nai laughed, "You try one! I'm a bad judge of food!"

Vash had, of course, piled his plate up with at least three doughnuts. He picked one up and bit into it, "Mmm! They are fantastic!"

Rem took one from Vash, "Oh these are pretty good."

"Right!? I'm gonna try the pink one next." Vash said through a mouthful.

Nai picked up his coffee and watched his family. He had to admit, he had missed Rem. He missed moment like this with Vash. How much had he lost in his endeavors for paradise and revenge? He lowered his lids to half closed. Could things really stay this way?

"Vash! You got a phone call!" A lab tech shouted from across the cafeteria.

"Coming!" Vash called, heading over.

Nai sipped his coffee, watching him go. It most likely was another city needing Plant maintenance. He and Vash had finally gotten old enough in this current cycle to travel on their own so more cities had started asking for their assistance. It took a couple minutes but eventually Vash came back looking stiff and uncomfortable.

"So um, I got good news and bad news." Vash said, nervously laughing and scratching the back of his head.

Nai put his cup down and stared intensely at Vash, waiting.

"So um, good news we got a job! A Plant facility wants us to do a health check on their Plants. They have one that is looking a little sick but the others they all just want some maintenance ." Vash began.

"And the bad news?" Nai rested his cheek on his hand.

"Facility is in New July." Vash spat out.

Nai groaned and rubbed his temples. "Of course it's in New July!"

"I really don't understand why you guys hate that city so much. I've never even take you there." Rem said.

Vash and Nai groaned in unison, giving Rem unamused looks. New July was a sore spot for both of them. It was nothing but a massive monument to both of their failures and past mistakes. A memorial to their sins. In their previous cycle they both avoided New July whenever they could, uncomfortable with the resurrection of the lost city.

"Its... a long story Rem." Nai grumbled, pinching the bridge of his nose.

"Nai if you want we can refuse the job. There are other Plant techs." Vash fidgeted in his seat.

"You said they had a sick Plant. I can't ignore that. We have to go no matter how much we dislike it." Nai stated.

Vash let out a whine, hunching over, "I was afraid you would say that."

Nai stood and pat his brother's back, "Pack your things. We have a long journey." Vash let his head flop over, completely demoralized.

"I'll go buy some sand steamer tickets." Rem said, standing up. "It's a pretty long trip from here."

"Thanks Rem." Vash gave her a weak smile.

"Wait Rem." Nai went up to her and whispered in her ear. "This might be an odd request but I'd like us to have a layover in Hopeland."

"Hopeland? Sure I can get that. Might save us some money too. Why do you want a layover though? Wouldn't you rather get this over with?" Rem asked.

"There is something I hope might be there for Vash." Nai whispered.

"Aww, Nai you are too sweet." Rem gave Nai a squeeze, ruffling his hair as she did. Nai rolled his eyes, a pang of guilt hitting his chest. Sometimes he regretted their decision not to tell Rem the truth.

Nai scooted away and followed Vash to their bedrooms, Vash already was in his with the door open. He was throwing together a collection of clothes while his signature red coat hung over a chair waiting to be put on. Nai went into his bedroom across the hall and started to grab things. On his bed, neatly folded was his own coat. Rem had gotten them matching ones except his was blue. He had never worn it, feeling it wasn't appropriate for him. However, it was a really nice coat, made of heat resistant material that would protect him from the desert. He grabbed it and slung it over his shoulders, pulling the hood up.

"You're finally gonna wear it!?" Vash bounced over.

Nai chuckled, "Yes I am. I know it would make you and Rem happy."

Vash grabbed Nai up in a hug, pressing their cheeks together. "Thank you, it does! It looks good on you!"

Nai rested against Vash, he didn't want to tell him how guilty he felt wearing the coat. Like he was lying to everyone. Nai turned his face to bury it into Vash's neck.

"You're being really affectionate today." Vash hummed, gripping Nai so he couldn't escape.

"Can't a man hug his little brother?" Nai grumbled.

"Everything alright?" Vash asked.

No.

"Yes I'm fine. Let's just get going, we have a sand steamer to catch and that's a two day trip from here on my bike." Nai said, managing to pull himself free.

The finished grabbing their things, Rem waiting for them downstairs with her hands over her mouth. "My two little boys all grown up and going out on their own." She grabbed them up in her arms. "I'm going to be so worried."

"We'll be okay Rem." Vash said, nuzzling into her.

Rem pulled back, one hand on each of their shoulders, "I know, I believe in you. Alright so let's go over things. If anyone asks how old are you?"

"18." The brothers said in unenthused unison.

"Nai remember to eat and do not use your powers unless absolutely necessary. The Plant facility knows you two are independents but no one else has to." Rem said.

Nai nodded.

"Vash... God I really wish you weren't bringing a gun with you but I know it's for protection. You know how to use it right?" Rem glanced at Vash's Long Colt.

Vash gave a nervous laugh, "Yes Rem I do. I've... I've practiced with it a lot."

Rem sighed, "Please call me when you get to the hotel in New July okay?"

"We will..." Nai bit his lip and then walked forward and hugged Rem. "We love you. We will be okay."

Vash went wide eyed and then beamed, joining in and squeezing his family. "Yeah! We got this Rem! Nai and I are tough guys!"

Rem smile, tightening the hug. "Alright, you better mean it! I love you two."

Nai and Vash slowly let go, heading downstairs to the garage where Nai's bike was.

"I can't believe you told Rem you love her!" Vash squeaked.

"Yeah well... she deserves it." Nai spoke through his teeth, already regretting his decisions for the day.

Vash grabbed Nai and shook him a bit. "I knew you loved her! I knew it!"

Nai whipped out one chain of blades from his back, hovering it over Vash, "Stop. Now."

"Ah. I have pushed you too far. No-touchy-Nai is out." Vash let go, wiggling his fingers.

Nai gave Vash a glare for a few solid seconds before retracting his knives.

"I'm always jealous how quickly you get control over your gate. I'm over here just trying to remember how to manifest feathers." Vash said, lifting his hands up and staring at them.

Nai tossed Vash a motorcycle helmet and got on his bike, patting the sidecar. "You'll get it. Besides it's better if you take your time. Less likely to summon your angel arm."

Vash cringed, "Please, I don't want to think about that on the way to July."

Nai nodded solemnly, pulling his helmet over his head. Once Vash was in and their bags were secure he connected the bike to himself, opening his gate slightly to fuel it. Nai revved the engine and they took off into the sands of No Man's Land toward New July.

Chapter 2

Notes:

You ever get the "writer zoomies" and just belt out like 3 chapters in a sitting? That just happened to me but I'm gonna make sure to go over them again

The bike continued to speed along, kicking up a cloud of sand as they went. In the distance Nai spotted a cloud of worms, a massive green haze on the horizon.

"Hey Vash? How many years have you been alive now? Counting each cycle." Nai asked as the motorcycle continued across the seemingly endless sand.

"Oh geez um..." Vash started to count on his fingers, "God it's been about 380 years? Give or take."

"And how have you still not learned how to drive!?" Nai shouted.

"Listen! I learned how to ride a toma! That's pretty good! Machines are weird and I can't do it!" Vash argued.

"I'm literally going to have to drive for about 18 hours because you can't figure out how to turn the throttle to go vroom!" Nai growled. "You literally know how to pilot space ships but you can make two wheels go forward!"

"Honestly I'm surprised you know how to drive!" Vash protested.

"I like machines. There is something simple and pure about them. I enjoy being able to have full control over it and adjust it how I need to. It's comforting." Nai mused.

Vash narrowed his eyes, "You make it sound really controlling and weird."

Nai sputtered, "Listen! I'm still working on that alright!?"

"Alright, alright." Vash snickered, "Geez Nai, we got to teach you how to relax."

Nai grumbled under his breath, "Well, when it turns out everything you find relaxing might actually be abusive, it's a bit hard."

Vash gave Nai an understanding smile and leaned back in the side car. Nai lowered his shoulders again, trying to calm down. He took a slow deep breath and glanced over at Vash relaxing in the sunshine. It was nice to get some alone time with his brother. Like this was how things should have always been and could have maybe been so long ago. Just the two of them, happy together and completely free.

"Um Nai, do you hear that." Vash's eyes shot open.

Nai blinked and focused. A low rumbling was coming from behind them. "...Please no."

Vash turned around, gritting his teeth. The sand behind them slowly began to rise. "Nai! Nai we have company!"

"I can see that Vash!" Nai pulled the throttle to max, the engine struggling to out speed the mass behind them.

Out of the sand rose a massive worm. It's jaw unhinged, ready to swallow the brothers whole.

"Nai are you still friends Zazie!? Can you like, call it off!?" Vash shouted, pulling out his gun and aiming.

"I never was friends with Zazie! Zazie only listened to me because they knew I could destroy their planet!" Nai swerved around a large rock.

Vash steadied himself as the worm increased speed fired a shot at a sore in its mouth. The worm screeched, slowly slightly. "Could you TRY to reason with them!?"

"I'm not Millions Knives anymore Vash! I'm just some punk with a bike!" Nai screamed behind him. The worm had recovered and was quickly gaining speed.

"Nai! It's gaining on us!" Vash fired two more shots, both hitting the worm in the eyes but this time it was pushing itself through the pain.

"I'm aware!" Nai swerved again as the worm tried to take a bite. Vash unloaded the rest of his barrel into the worm, causing it to swim away momentarily. Nai squared his jaw and stood. He grabbed Vash and shoved him in the drivers seat as the worm readjusted it trajectory, "Take the handle bars, the fuel line goes in your thigh! Don't let up!"

"It goes in my what!?" Vash screamed.

"Just don't let us die!" Nai shouted as he summoned dozens of blades from his back. It was taking a lot more effort than it used to. His new body was still young as he couldn't pull off the same feats in his previous lives. Nai concentrated, before opening his arms. His blades began to spin, swirling around the massive creature before plunging into it and slicing it through. The worm collapsed in a fountain of blood as its body skidded to a stop.

"Yes!" Nai grinned and pumped his fist. The bike suddenly hit a rock and vaulted forward, launching himself and Vash through the air and head first into the sand. The bike landed a few yards away from them, half buried.

"Hey look, we didn't die!" Vash beamed as he popped out of the ground.

Nai spat out a mouth full of sand as he pulled himself out, "...I'm teaching you how to drive when we get home."

They unearthed the bike and drove for a few more iles before calling it a night. Nai set up a tent for them while Vash cooked himself some dinner. Nai made sure their set up would be warm enough with the temperature dropping fast.

"Finish up quickly, it's going to get into freezing range soon." Nai said, wrapping a blanket around Vash.

"Kay~" Vash replied before taking another bite of his rations.

They settled into the tent, Nai wrapping his arms around Vash to keep him close and warm.

"Its kinda fun traveling like this. Reminds me of my Stampede days but with less bounty hunters. And it's you instead of Wolfwood calling me an idiot." Vash sank into his sleeping bag.

Nai let out a small snort, "You look back at those days fondly?"

"Yes I do. Sure I was on the run and a lot of bad things happened but I made a lot of friends... It was a good time." Vash yawned and closed his eyes. "Good night Nai."

"Night Vash." Nai settled into his sleeping bag.

Nai was woken up in the middle of the night by a buzzing sound outside. He exited the tent to find Zazie staring at him.

"Huh, it is you." Zazie said. "You Plants really never stop with the surprises. I thought I was the only one who truly lived forever."

"...Go away." Nai growled.

"Aw, not happy to see an old friend?" Zazie smirked.

"We were not friends and you know it." Nai glared.

Zazie chuckled, "No, we really weren't. Though it's good to see you all the same. You looked more like yourself there for a moment."

Nai sneered at Zazie, "That's not me. Not anymore."

Zazie laughed, "Sure thing Knives. Can't wait for your eventual break down when you can't keep this up. You should have seen the look on your face as you sliced me up. You looked so relieved, like a weight was taken off your shoulders for a moment. Bet you were pretending I was human or something. Anyone in particular? Someone you just wish you could gu-"

Nai slashed Zazie's head clean off, their body exploding into hundreds of worms. "I said go away."

The cloud of worms flew off, Zazie's disembodied cackling flying off with them. Nai narrowed his eyes and went back into the tent. He didn't sleep for the rest of the night.

They made it to the sand steamer with time to spare, finding their room and getting comfortable.

"Hey Nai, our tickets say we have a layover in Hopeland?" Vash pointed out.

"Yup, gotta see if your priest is in this cycle yet." Nai stated.

Vash took a deep breath, "We are going to look for Wolfwood?"

Nai hummed, nodding a little.

Vash glowed softly, a smile painted on his lips, "Thank you Nai."

The steamer took off, rolling out on the desert. Nai and Vash lean on the railing together, watching the dock grow smaller in the distance. Nai let out a yawn and rests his head down.

"Go take a nap I'll wake you up at Hopeland." Vash grinned.

"Don't wanna leave you." Nai mumbled.

Vash put a hand on Nai's back, "Come on Nai. Even you need to rest."

Nai opened an eye to look up at his brother. Vash's face was warm and welcoming behind his glasses. Nai stood and stretched, "I swear I'm fine."

Vash gave him a doubtful look, "Must you always be so stubborn?"

Nai grinned, "I don't want to miss a moment with you Vash. This is my first big road trip with you."

Vash sighed, but the look on his face told Nai he understood. "Alright, but don't blame me it you get cranky."

The Hopeland orphanage grew in the distance, the massive building having been rebuilt a few times. Vash was practically bouncing up and down with excitement.

"Nai! What are we going to do if he is actually there? How do I reintroduce myself?" Vash asked.

"Well depends on how old he is right?" Nai said, "If he is an adult you'll have to wait a few years to introduce yourself. If he is a kid you'll have to wait even longer. Be a bit awkward to walk up to a 5 year old and ask if they want to get married in 15 years."

Vash shivered with disgust, "Yeah no thanks. I'm not grooming Wolfwood... Reincarnation makes things really awkward doesn't it?"

Nai looked out across the distance, "Wouldn't know. You're the only person I care about."

"Aw come on Nai? You don't want to find any of your old friends?" Vash elbowed him.

"Vash, the Gung-ho Guns were not my friends." Nai flatly stated.

"Not even Elendira or Legato?" Vash asked.

Nai's eyes softened, staring out unfocused at Hopeland. Elendira probably was doing something lavish with her life, she always had been a powerful and commanding woman. She was one of the few humans he honestly could say he respected.

As for Legato... he probably wasn't even Legato. Knives had given him his name, his identity, his freedom. Knives had built up everything Legato was. Without Knives Legato didn't exist. He probably was an entirely different person, growing up in a much better situation. Nai wouldn't be able to recognize him if they met.

"They are all better off without me Vash." Nai turned away.

Vash frowned and scooted closer to his brother. "Let's focus on making you some friends this time then. Real friends."

Nai rolled his eyes. The idea of making friend made him feel nauseous. He didn't deserve companionship anyway. He could survive with just Vash.

They arrived in Hopeland, Vash practically dragging Nai behind him, his coat violently flapping in the wind. They crested the hill and Vash's heart stopped. In the courtyard of the orphanage was a tiny Nicholas running after a beat up ball, Livio chasing after him.

"Nai... Nai its him." Vash whispered.

Nai chuckled, "Looks like he is doing well."

Vash suddenly bristled and stared up at the orphanage, "The Eye of Michael is gone right? We don't have to worry about them right?"

"Well considering their strongest members either died or were your friends I think we are in the clear. There are a lot of Plant worshipers but as far as I know none of them are assassins anymore." Nai said. "And I clearly am no longer involved. I'm pretty sure you would notice if I secretly had a cult in the basement back home."

Vash gripped Nai's arm. "So... he is safe. He is going to be okay." Vash trembled slightly, "We can just leave him here and he'll grow up and Livio with be fine too?"

"Razlo might still be a thing. We can keep an eye from a distance. Their guardian angels, if you will." Nai smirked.

Vash let out a snort, "I don't want to interfere too much... I just want him to have a good childhood for once."

Livio suddenly tripped and landed face first into the dirt. Nicholas turned and headed back to him, helping him sit up. Livio was sniffling, rubbing his eyes. They could hear Nico calling him a crybaby but proceeding to clean his brother's face off.

"We won't, but they will both be fine Vash, I promise." Nai said.

Vash let out a breath he didn't realize he was holding, "Thank you Nai... for bringing me here."

"Of course. You're happiness is what matters most to me Vash." Nai replied.

They watched Nicholas run off with Livio, heading back inside the orphanage for some lunch. Vash let out a content sigh, a thoughtful smile on his lips. Nai very gently brushed his fingers with his own, reminding him they needed to go. Vash nodded and took one final look over his shoulder at the orphanage.

"See you later Nico." Vash whispered.

The boys headed back towards the sand steamer, their next stop being New July.

Chapter 3

New July rose up out of the horizon early in the morning. The city sharp outline cut the sky with its sharp modern designs. Steam pours out of massive smoke stacks as they had returned to using water production Plants to fuel it. Nai and Vash didn't look at the city though, instead their gaze fell on the crater a few iles away, the true remains of Lost July. The distance between the two was in that moment both too close and too far. Vash gently grabbed his left arm and scowled. Nai's stomach turned, wishing he could look away, wishing the sand would just blow over the hole already and erode it with time. Just let the past die.

"Ladies and Gentlemen we have arrived in New July! Please head to lower deck three to depart." A loud speaker ended the brother's private funeral.

"Let's get this show rolling." Nai hissed, grabbing his bag and heading towards the stairs.

Vash quietly followed, adjusting his glasses with a finger to push them higher up on his nose.

Once they were deeper into the belly of the city it was a little easier to forget it was New July they were inside. The city was much more modern than the one they had destroyed. They didn't use as many space fairing parts to build it. Most of it was Plant made or mined. New July was a passion project by a couple of rich entrepreneurs who were nostalgic for the past. As such there was an extremely divide between rich and poor. Extremely fancy shops lined the roads while desolate children played in the streets. There was aggressive architecture, like spikes on the ground outside of buildings, to try and keep the homeless away from store fronts.

Nai tried his best to keep his breathing even. The class war was just another thing that proved to him that humans were parasitic vermin. They refuse to take care of each other and would let their own brethren rot in the streets instead of helping their fellow man. He tried to push the thought out of his mind. He was going to be kind to humans. He was going to for Vash.

They reached the Plant facility and were welcomed in. Seeing his sister's let Nai finally push his conflicting thoughts out of his head. He ran up one of the tanks and smiled, pressing his face to it.

"Wow, he is eager to work!" The head engineer laughed.

"Its been a bit of a long trip." Vash gave a nervous chuckled while itching his neck.

"I'll leave you boys to it. The mayor is probably going to come by later to see how things are going since he is technically the one that hired you two." The head engineer gave a wave and headed off towards his office.

Nai let out a content sigh, smiling with his eyes close. Vash joined him, standing next to him near the tank.

"How are you holding up?" Vash asked.

Nai grabbed Vash's hand and pulled him close, he touched their foreheads together, both of their Plant markings flaring up, glowing brightly around their faces. The brothers were always connected, they could feel where the other was if they concentrated. However when they touched like this they could connect more deeply. Vash could feel Nai's anxiety and worry but also his relief that they made it and were away from everyone now. Vash reached up and pet his brother's head gently.

"You're doing great Nai." Vash whispered. "Thank you for being vulnerable with me."

"I hate this place so much. I know you do too. I should be more supportive instead of selfishly whining to you." Nai's frustration burned in his voice.

Vash chuckled and kept petting his brother's head, "You can lean on me sometimes Nai. I'm your brother too. I'm here for you."

Nai took a deep breath and squeezed Vash close. Vash held him tight, letting him work through his emotions. Nai could almost feel his brother's gate, both of them so deeply connected.

"Uhhhh you two okay?" The head engineer had come back out of his office with coffee and doughnuts for them.

"Yeah, it's a Plant thing" Vash reassured.

Nai groaned very quietly into Vash's shoulder. They were left alone again and this time properly got to work. Vash monopolized the doughnuts as they checked on each of their sisters while Nai drank the coffee.

"You are going to have to pee so bad." Vash teased.

Nai rolled his eyes and then spotted her. One red tank toward the back. He sprinted over and put his coffee down on the floor and he pushed himself to the tank. Vash quickly joined him. The Plant slowly unfolded, lazily floating over to them. Vash and Nai both connected to their sister, hearing her weak voice flood their minds.

Nai and Vash knew in an instance what was wrong and they both slowly pulled back. Nai stared up at her and suddenly felt a surge of panic hit his chest. Memories from past lives flooding in. He took a step back from the tank and clutched his chest with a hand.

"Well, how are my Plants?" A tall man in a fine suit walked over, presumably the mayor.

"...She's dying." Vash answered softly.

"Anything you can do about it?" The mayor asked.

Vash shook his head, "She is just old... its her time."

"Well I suppose we will have to look into buying a new Plant. We'll keep it running then till it's done." The mayor responded.

Nai's gaze shot up at the man. He stormed over, "You should just retire her now. She is exhausted! Let her rest!"

"Rest? It's a Plant, they are supposed to run until they die. I'm not going to waste resources just letting a Plant uselessly take up space here. Its is either going to run till it dies or I'm throwing it out in the garbage." The mayor explained.

Rage flared inside Nai. He felt like a spring being twisted tighter and tighter. He grabbed the man's lapels and yanked him forward. "She isn't just some battery for you to toss away like trash!"

The mayor's face suddenly shifted to fear. Nai could feel his fury rush through every cell in his body. They never changed. Humans always would abuse and work his sister's into the grave if given the chance. He wanted nothing more than to shred this man with his blades. He could dispose of this parasite and teach him what it felt like to be treated like trash.

It would be so easy.

Nai suddenly felt Vash. He shifted his gaze over to his brother. The anxiety on Vash's face was like a punch to the gut. Vash's hand was drifting towards his Long Colt. His brother gently shook his head, wordlessly begging Nai to not do it.

Nai snapped his gaze back to the bewildered mayor. He let go of his coat and stepped back. "If we clone her for free will you let us take her back to December? She only has a few months at best and you will have a brand new Plant."

The mayor stumbled, adjusting his coat and scowling at Nai, unaware he was moments away from being nothing more than a bloodstain on the floor. "For free? Fine, but you better learn to control that temper of yours!"

Nai's eye twitched, "We will have the clone ready tonight."

"Fully operational?" The mayor asked.

"She will be in a few months after growing." Nai growled.

"Perfect. Get to it." The mayor said as he walked out.

Nai's breathing was ragged and uneven, he looked at the head engineer, "Elect better politicians." Nai turned and marched back toward the tank, practically banging his head against the glass in frustration.

Vash's arms gently wrapped around him from behind. "Nai, I'm so proud of you." He whispered.

Nai didn't respond, trying to keep all the coffee he had drank from escaping his stomach. He felt like a traitor no mater what he did. He curled forward, disgusted with himself. Vash held him tight, resting his cheek on his shoulder.

"I know that was really hard for you." Vash whispered.

"Vash what... what do you do to relieve stress?" Nai said, running a hand through his hair.

"Well... I used to drink. Like, a lot. I was a bit of an alcoholic the first cycle." Vash admitted.

"Do you wanna go get drinks after work?" Nai asked.

"Wait you actually want to go drinking?" Vash looked bewildered.

"Please I just... I need something to calm down. Anything." Nai hissed.

Vash nodded, "Okay, we can. Just make sure to stop me if I suddenly have an orange and green tie around my head."

Nai gave Vash a weak smile. "Sure."

The rest of the day they got the clone set up, already floating and content in her new tank. Vash called Rem and told her they were shipping a Plant to December while setting up the paperwork. Nai rested against the dying Plant's tank, a storm of emotions wrecking his insides.

They found a small cheap bar to relax at that evening. It was in a seedier part of town but neither brother wanted to spend a lot of money and they knew they could handle any trouble they ran into.

"So then there is another bounty hunter and he thinks the guy who tied me up is me! Meryl and Milly are just standing there, watching as these two argue over who is the real Vash the Stampede while I'm just casually tied up in the back!" Vash banged his hand on the table laughing and shaking the bottle of whiskey between them.

Nai snorted, downing another shot, "Vash... Vash you gotta admit you don't look like- hic! You don't look intimidating. Like at all."

"I can if I want to!" Vash whined.

Nai giggled into his shot glass. "Please, you're adorable."

"Damn right I'm adorable!" Vash said pouring himself another shot. He lifted it up in the air. "To Wolfwood! For his amazing but traumatizing taste in whiskey!"

"We didn't have to order 'The Bride' if it was gonna cause you problems." Nai said grabbing the bottle and looking it over.

"It unfortunately is my favorite brand." Vash stated into his now empty shot glass. "Not like I gotta worry anyway right now. Nico is a tiny little baby right now. And I can burn every couch back home."

"Rem will love that!" Nai cackled. Then he felt a sudden tightening in his stomach. Nai stood, covering his mouth and ran outside. He emptied all the booze he had drank that night into the alley. He groaned, leaning against a wall. He was discovering he was a bit of a light weight when it came to alcohol. He stumbled back, leaning against the opposite wall and took a deep breath.

Out of the corner of his eye he saw something strange coming down the alley, heading toward a inconspicuous unmarked door. A large man in a fine suit leading a teenage boy on a leash. Nai made eye contact with the boy and instantly was brought back to another life time. He had seen these eyes before, cold dead eyes of a child who's hatred of humanity matched his own. Of a servant so loyal, who worshiped him like a god.

This was Legato.

Nai felt himself falling as he watched Legato be yanked by neck, towards the little door. The man pulling him had a disgusting grin in his face, eager to get Legato inside. Legato's eyes looked hallow, completely accepting what fate waited for him on the other side.

Nai's chest tightening as they grew closer. What a fool he had been. Legato was a sex slave again in this cycle. He probably was a sex slave in every cycle. It was obvious, everyone had similar starts to their cycles. Of course Legato was subject to the same fate over and over. How many life times had he died with no name? How many life times did he die nothing more than a sex toy, cursing humanity for turning a blind eye to his plight? How long had Nai let him be used as an object?

Nai was no better than the humans he hated.

As Legato and the man disappeared into the building Nai broke into a sprint after them. He body checked the door, stumbling inside. The man turned and about three guns were trained on Nai as he shoot shaking in the door frame.

"Hey kid this is a private residence get the fu-"

The spring snapped and Knives unleashed his wrath.

Chapter 4

Red.

The entire room was bathed in red. Blood dripped from the ceiling and painted the walls. Pools of blood housed diced human bodies. Every living creature in that room was dead accept for Nai and Legato. Nai's knives danced around him like a cloud of smoke, evidence of his crime dripping from them.

Legato knelt on the floor gazing up at him with awe and reverence. It was an expression Nai remembered well. It was the same as the first time they met.

Nai exhaled and knelt down next to Legato. He pushed back the gravity of the situation as long as he could. He couldn't falter right now he had to move. He undid the collar around Legato's neck.

"Can you stand?" Nai tried to hide the trembling in his voice.

Legato nodding, slowly getting up.

Nai took another breath, standing with him. "What's your name?"

"I... I don't have one." Legato said quietly, a small smile coming forward. "Are you going to kill me too?"

Nai winced. Legato's eyes looked haunted, completely ready for death's embrace. Nai reached over to gently pet the top of Legato's head. "No... No you're going to live. Follow me."

"I'll follow you anywhere." Legato's devotion already blooming anew.

Nai closed his eyes for a moment, disgusted with himself. "You're name is Legato Bluesummers from now on. Let's go."

Nai grabbed Legato and scooped him up into his arms. Legato wrapped his arms around Nai's neck, holding on as Nai began to run. He managed to get them back to the hotel he and Vash were staying at, setting him down in bathroom. His thoughts were running a mile and minute but first he needed to destroy the evidence of his murders. Nai ripped his coat off and filled the bathtub up with water. He submerged it and began to furiously scrub out the blood stains.

Legato scooted next to him, watching. "...Are you going to have sex with me?"

Nai choked on air, "What!?"

"You brought me to a hotel..." Legato said, "I'm only ever brought to a hotel for sex."

Nai gritted his teeth, "No, I'm not... Legato you are free. No one is very going to force you to do that again."

"Free..." Legato became quiet.

Nai took a deep breath, gathering his frayed nerves. "You're safe, I promise."

Legato watched Nai continue scrubbing. Nai thought back to when he first found Legato. He was very similar, quiet unless Nai asked something of him. He took him a while to develop a personality. Nai lifted his coat out of the water and examined it. The blood thankfully had come out. He sighed in relief and drained the tub before turning to Legato.

"We are never speaking of this. Ever. If anyone asks I kidnapped you from your rapists and that's it. We ran away. No one died." Nai ordered.

Legato nodded. Nai was suddenly incredibly grateful Legato was loyal to a fault.

Nai slumped forward, exhaustion suddenly hitting him. Legato leaned in, trying to support him. Nai's head was spinning. He couldn't believe he just killed so many people so easily. No, that was a lie, he completely believe he just did that. He felt a hand on his back and looked over at Legato. He was smiling gently, a sense of ease coming to his face.

"How old are you Legato?" Nai asked.

"16. I lost clients recently because I got too old." Legato stated.

Nai wanted Legato to give him the address of every "client" he ever had before so he could go on a killing spree but he already had broken enough promises today. He looked down at Legato's body. He was incredibly thin, he wouldn't fit in any of Nai or Vash's clothes.

"I'm going to have to go shopping for you." Nai mumbled.

Legato tilted his head a little. Nai reached up and pet him again but the moment his hand cupped his cheek Legato flinched. Nai narrowed his eyes and Legato looked ashamed. Nai tried to remember in the past if Legato always had problems with being touched. Then he realized in their past life Nai never touched Legato. He never touched humans unless it was to kill them.

"Its okay Legato. Tell me if I ever touch you in a way you don't like." Nai whispered.

Legato gave a small nod, shame still in his eyes. Nai leaned against the bathtub and pushed himself up.

"Are you hungry?" Nai remembered Legato always had a huge appetite for someone so thin.

Legato nodded.

"Alright I'm going to grab you some food and clothes. Stay here. If a weird guy comes in a red coat that is my brother Vash. He is a nice guy you don't have to worry about him. You remember our story right?" Nai asked.

Legato nodded, "You kidnapped me from my rapists... we ran away."

Nai smiled, "Good job."

Legato's eyes sparkled from the praise. Nai headed out, quickly running through the streets to get what he needed for his new... what would he even call Legato this time? He wasn't a henchmen or a Gung-ho Gun. Last time he had just picked him up on a whim and he turned out to be very useful. He thought about it as he ran and remembered Vash saying he was a friend. Nai groaned softly to himself.

When he got back to the room Vash was waiting outside for him.

"Sooooo um, Nai. I know like, this is a huge step for you. I didn't think you would be so open to exploring your sexuality but like if you are gonna get a date could you tell me? I can get a second room." Vash anxiously spoke.

"Vash, that's Legato." Nai said.

"That's Legato!?" Vash wheezed out. "He is so tiny!"

"Yeah well, you met him when he was in his late twenties and he wasn't really taken care of till he was with me." Nai explained.

"You shattered the man's spine, how is that taking care of him?" Vash asked.

Nai narrowed his eyes, "Before that dipshit."

"Where did you even find him!?" Vash asked.

Nai looked down, mind flashing horrible imagery from earlier in the evening, "I saw him getting lead into a whore house."

"A... a whore house?" Vash looked confused.

Nai suddenly realized Vash never knew about Legato's past. "Vash... Legato was a child slave used for prostitution."

Vash's expression became horrified. "You mean... people were..."

Nai nodded, "That's why he was so loyal to me. I saved him from that... just like I did today."

Vash looked him he had just bitten into something bitter. "Is he... okay?"

"As okay as you can be after that. Be gentle with him. Do not touch him unless he asks to be touched. He is sensitive about his body right now." Nai instructed.

Vash opened the door to the hotel room for Nai and Legato was curled up on one of the beds, staring at the door. Nai sat next to him on the bed and pulled out a few hotdogs, remembering they were a favorite of his. He handed one to Legato and he hungrily dug in.

"So... have you told Rem?" Vash asked, sitting across from them.

"Not yet, though I think she will understand." Nai said. "I'm not leaving him behind."

Vash leaned back on the bed with a huge grin on his face, "No way are we leaving him behind! You finally made a friend Nai! We have to protect that."

Legato looked up at Nai in between bites. Nai gave Legato a small nod, "Right... We're friends now."

Legato swallowed and wiped his mouth with his arm, "Who is Rem?"

"She's our mom." Vash answered.

"She is human like you. We were adopted and raised by her." Nai added.

"Wait he already knows we're Plants!?" Vash shouted.

"Yes I kind of used my powers in front of him." Nai admitted.

Vash went pale, "Did... did anyone get hurt?"

Legato shook his head. "He used the blades on his back to scare people. Then he grabbed me."

Nai pet Legato's head again. He had forgotten just how good a partner he was.

Vash groaned, "We should leave first thing in the morning. Before word gets out about us."

Nai crossed his arms, "I would like to leave tonight but I... kinda vomited all over my coat and now it's drying in the bathroom."

"Ah. Yeah you don't hold liquor too well." Vash chuckled.

Nai pulled out the clothes he just bought for Legato. "Here, once you are full we can get you in something clean."

Legato smiled at Nai, "Thank you... ah, master I don't know your name."

Nai flinched at being called master, "Nai. Nai Saverem. I'm not your master Legato, just your friend."

Legato hummed softly and nodded. "Nai..." He took the clothes and rushed off toward the bathroom.

Vash flopped backwards on his bed with an exaggerated sigh, "This is so awkward."

"Why?" Nai asked.

"...Did you just forget I kinda murdered the man? Or how about the fact he tortured me for seven months? Or maybe I'm just a little weirded out by the dude who literally made it his life's mission to make me suffer!?" Vash flailed his arms.

"Well he isn't that now." Nai protested.

Vash sat back up and glared at Nai, "Its still really awkward Nai!"

"Listen he won't be like that now. Legato lived to serve me. He did whatever he thought would make me the happiest. Currently torturing you would make me pretty pissed." Nai explained.

Vash grumbled something under his breath and the bathroom door clicked open. Legato came out in a simple turtle neck and jeans.

"Comfortable? I thought something covering would be nice." Nai said.

Legato nodded, returning to Nai's side on the bed.

Vash yawned, "Aright, let's hit the hay."

"Right. Legato you can have this bed to yourself I'm going to join Vash." Nai stated.

Legato watched Nai join Vash's side, hugging his knees.

They got settled in for the night, the glow of the city lights gently illuminating the hotel room. Nai stared up at the ceiling, haunted by his actions. He kept replaying in his mind the murders. He hated admitting it but it was extremely satisfying. He had rid the word of filth. He saved Legato from a horrible life. Should he really feel remorse for ending them? He glanced over at Vash, flailed about on the bed and drooling. It was so hard living his lifestyle. Pretending to care about humanity.

He glanced over at Legato and saw he was wide awake, staring at him. "Can't sleep either?" Nai whispered.

Legato shook his head.

Nai stood and offered Legato a hand. "Want to go for a walk?"

Legato took it and the two headed out into the night. The city was still buzzing with sounds as they walked. Legato gently took Nai's hand, staying close to him.

"You're safe." Nai hushed.

"I know. I trust you Nai." Legato whispered.

Nai looked down at Legato. It was eerie how natural he fell back into place. Like he was made to be by Nai's side. Nai pulled him aside and gently lifted a long lock of hair.

"Do you want this cut? Make you less recognizable." Nai asked.

Legato nodded. "Please."

Nai formed a blade from his hand and gently cut Legato's hair to its familiar style. "There, that suits you."

Legato smiled up at Nai, eyes half closed and dreamy. "Thank you Nai."

Nai pet Legato's head gently, the teen practically chasing his every touch.

"You are so devoted, we just met." Nai chuckled.

"You're my savior. My angel." Legato whispered. "Tonight they were planning on killing me. One last onslaught before my execution for a butchered plot to slaughter them all. Then you appeared. You killed every last one. I can't begin to describe how happy you make me."

Nai exhaled, a chill running over him. He wrapped his arms around Legato and pulled him close. Legato stiffened for a moment but then sank into Nai's embrace. They stayed like that for a moment, Nai gently petting Legato's head as the sounds of New July enveloped them.

"Let's get back to bed." Nai said, releasing Legato and turning around.

"Nai." Legato gasped.

Nai stopped, turning to look at Legato. The teen stared down at the ground.

"Could you... sleep with me?" Legato murmured, "Not, sexually I just... I want you close to me."

Nai was quiet for a moment, "...Sure."

Legato's face lit up and he took Nai's hand again. They made it back to the hotel without waking Vash, Legato burying his face into Nai's chest the moment he settled in the bed. Nai remained still, letting the traumatized youth get comfortable. It was the least he could do, let Legato enjoy himself. He fell asleep quick enough.

"Glad you get something out of this considering I have nothing to offer." Nai closed his eyes, praying sleep would take him.

Exhaustion finally won out over his anxiety.

Chapter 5

"So sand steamer will be easy enough but what are we gonna do when we have to get on the motorcycle? You only have one side car." Vash pointed out as he got dressed for the day.

"Legato can sit behind me." Nai explained.

"Have you called Rem?" Vash asked.

Nai paused, turning slowly to look at his brother.

"Nai."

"I don't know how to tell her." Nai sweated, unease clear on his face.

"Just tell her the truth." Vash smiled, pulling a boot on.

Bile filled Nai's mouth. He could always tell her his manufactured "truth". Nai went over to the hotel phone in the room and began to dial Rem's number. Legato came out of the bathroom and sat next to Nai.

"Hello?" Rem answered.

"Hey Rem." Nai's voice sounding distance even to himself.

"Nai! Good to hear from you! Normally it's Vash who calls. How are things going?" Rem asked.

"Good, good, we are heading back in about an hour or so. Um... Rem, there is something I have to talk to you about." It felt like Nai was ripping a feather out of his back with every word.

"What's wrong Nai? You can tell me anything." Rem reassured him.

"...I saved a boy from the sex slave trade. He is my companion now. I gave him a name. I want... I want him to live with me." Nai forced himself to be clear.

"...Oh my god well, goodness is he okay?" Rem asked.

"He is now. We cleaned him up and are making sure he is eating. He is around our age." Nai replied. Legato laid down next to him, one hand very gently placed on Nai's thigh. It was as if he was testing the waters of what was okay to touch.

"This is really unexpected, especially from you Nai." Rem said.

"I know... he is my responsibility though. I can handle taking care of him." Nai put a hand on Legato's head, gently smoothing his hair out. Legato gazed up at him like he had put the stars in the sky.

"I'll get some housing set up for him." Rem replied.

"No wait!" Legato shot up.

Nai jumped, surprised Legato could hear Rem over the phone.

"What is it Legato?" Nai asked.

"Can't I... can't I stay with you? I want to be near you." Legato stared down at the bed.

"...Hey Rem he wants to live with me." Nai said, Legato's face lite up, looking like a dog who had just been thrown a bone.

"What!? No you two are way too young for that!" Rem scolded.

"Rem... we are not doing that." Nai tried to hide the growl in his voice.

"Still! Way too young. No, you have to give me like five more years before I'm ready for that!" Rem protested.

"Rem! Vash and I are pretty much adults!" Nai shot back. It was frustrating being over 250 and stuck in a 18 year old body.

"Your new friend just went through something traumatizing he needs space to heal." Rem argued.

Nai sighed, "Okay fine. Can his room be near mine? I don't think he is okay with being away from me right now."

"Of course! I want him to be as comfortable as possible Nai." Rem responded.

Nai relaxed slightly, "Thank you Rem."

"I can't believe you are dragging home not only a Plant but a boyfriend." Rem said.

Nai stiffened, "He is not my boyfriend Rem!"

Rem giggled on the other side of the phone, "Tell Vash I love him! Love you Nai!" And with that the line went dead.

Nai grumbled and looked over at Vash, "Rem says she loved you."

"Aww." Vash held his cheeks, beaming out happiness. "Well I'm all packed. Ready to go?"

Nai nodded, offering a hand to Legato to took it gingerly. They headed to the sand steamer docks. Vash was practically bouncing on his heels, ready to get as far from New July as he could. Legato held onto Nai's arm, looking back at the city.

"So um, I bought doughnuts at a bakery before getting on board. Legato would you like to have some with me?" Vash nervously asked. Nai could tell he was trying hard to disassociate this Legato from his previous encounters with him.

Legato nodded, picking up a doughnut.

"I think you're gonna like December." Vash said taking a bite. "It's really pretty. We live in a Plant facility made from old space fairing tech but it over looks iles and iles of flora."

"Flora?" Legato asked.

"Yeah! They are these funny little green things. Nai actually specializes in them. Ask him to show you his garden, its super pretty." Vash beamed.

Nai blushed and looked away from the group. Legato stared at Nai, excitement filling his chest.

"I just... I have an attachment to them." Nai coughed.

Vash grinned and bit into another doughnut. "Do you have anything you want to do now that your free Legato?"

Legato looked down at the doughnut in his hands. "...I don't know. I never thought I would be free. I just want to follow Nai."

Nai huffed slightly and pet Legato's head. "Give it some time. I hope you will find your own passions."

Legato leans again Nai, closing his eyes.

"...He has his passions, they're you." Vash snorted.

Nai glared at his brother and stole a doughnut from him, angrily scarfing it down if only to deny Vash one of his treats.

The three sat on the open air deck of the steamer, Vash slowly getting used to Legato. The engine began to whirl and the steamer groaned forward as the aching turn of gears pushed it. Legato suddenly stood and ran over to the railing, watching as New July started to move away from them.

"This is real, isn't it?" Legato spoke softly.

"Uhhh yeah Legato it's real." Vash said.

"I'm alive. I'm leaving that city. Both of you are real." Legato's hands began to shake. "I'm not going to wake up and find this was all a dream."

Nai stood and hugged Legato gently from behind. Legato's entire frame was trembling. Legato choked and gasped, crumpling forward.

"Its over!" Legato voice cracked, tears rushing down his face.

Vash stood and joined the other two at the railing. He very gently touched Legato's shoulder and gave him a pat. Legato continued to wail, years of pent up stress and abuse breaking him down.

Nai held him steady and wondered to himself if Legato had let himself cry the first time he was free. How much had he missed in ignoring his most loyal henchman?

Nai rested his cheek on Legato's head, "Shhh it's okay."

Legato hiccuped and slowly began to stop crying, though the trembling continued. New July, the undead city, faded on the horizon and out of the trios thoughts.

Nai headed to their room and laid Legato down, the teen having exhausted himself.

"Don't leave." Legato murmured in a half awake haze.

Nai sat next to him. "Alright."

Legato gave a small smile before passing out. Nai sighed, leaning back and rubbing a hand over his face. His stomach felt uneasy, different layers of guilt and sin making him nauseous.

He suddenly jumped when a cold water bottle was press to the back of his neck. Vash stifled a snicker.

"Jackass, you'll wake Legato!" Nai hissed under his breath.

"Sorry sorry, couldn't help it you looked so serious." Vash whispered, cheeky grin on his face. Nai huffed looking away from his brother. Vash looked down at Legato and then back up at Nai. "So what are you planning to do with him?"

"What do you mean?" Nai snapped.

"Are you going to try to date him? He clearly loves you." Vash asked.

"Why does everyone keep assuming that? No I'm not. I'm taking care of him because he deserves it, nothing more. Vash I'm trying to be cordial towards humanity but I still am not fond of them. Legato... he is kind of like us. He was used as an object, something to be ripped apart, spent, and thrown away. That's doesn't sit right with me. So now he gets another chance. He can live how he was supposed to." Nai explained.

Vash leaned his cheek on the back on his hand, staring at Nai. "Really? That's it?"

"That's it. I don't feel love toward anyone but you." Nai said.

"You told Rem you loved her." Vash pointed out.

"Yes because she deserved to hear it not because it was true. She has done a lot for us and I can appreciate that. She wants love but I can't provide it so... I fake it." Nai insisted.

Vash gave Nai a unconvinced look but then sighed, "You have to open up more Nai."

"No, I really don't. I have you. That's all that matters." Nai mumbled.

"Dude do you not remember that is how we got into the whole genocide problem in the first place!?" Vash hissed, trying to be quiet.

"No we got into the genocide mess because humans are psychopaths!" Nai whispered a shout.

"You need to stop obsessing over me Nai." Vash furrowed his brow into a tight knit glare.

Nai stared at him, hurt sinking into his chest, "I'm not obsessed with you Vash... you're just..." the only one who truly mattered to him.

Legato rolled over and grabbed onto Nai, whimpering slightly in his sleep. Nai turned his attention to him, petting him gently.

"You're safe Legato. Everything is going to be okay." Nai forced himself to sound gentle.

Vash leaned back, watching carefully, "I think you should reconsider your feelings towards Legato. You care about me because we're the same... but you just said he is just like us too."

Nai clicked his tongue, turning away from Vash. "Similar experience but he is still just a human."

Vash sighed, "I'm gonna go for a walk. Try to take in what I said... for once."

"I always take in what you say, now." Nai argued.

Vash left and Nai once again was alone.

Chapter 6

Notes:

I got more writing zoomies... I have a problem

"Nice to meet you Legato! I'm Rem Saverem, the care taker of these two knuckleheads." Rem wrapped her arms around Nai and Vash.

"Nice to meet you." Legato gave a slight bow.

"Let's show you your room!" Rem marched off towards the living quarters deck. "It's on deck six. You can read the maps near the stairwells to find your way around."

"I can't read." Legato said.

Everyone stopped moving.

"You can't read?" Rem asked.

"No." Legato shook his head.

Nai opened and shut his mouth, looking for words. He desperately searched his memories. Could Legato really never read before? It made sense, who would have taught him? He remembered Legato reading Eye of Michael scriptures. Who taught him how to read? Did he learn on his own?

"Nai and I can start teaching him." Vash proposed, Nai gave him a small smile.

"That's sweet of you Vash. Now, let's go see that room!" Rem smiled.

Rem lead them upstairs towards their living space, Vash headed towards his room and flopped on his bed, the constant travel having worn him out.

"So as you can tell from the belly flop, that is Vash's room. This one is Nai's and across the hall, right here is your's." Rem said opening the door.

The room was fairly plain so far but the essentials were there. Legato slowly stepped in and looked around.

"Is this your first time having a room Legato?" Rem asked.

Legato nodded, "They kept me in a cage before."

Rem gave an understanding smile, a calm sadness on her face, "Welcome home Legato."

Legato looked around the room and then sat down on the bed, "Its so soft."

Rem nodded, "You can put whatever you want in here too. Take a look at Vash and Nai's rooms to get some ideas."

Legato looked up at Nai, "Can I see your room?"

Nai shrugged his shoulders, "Sure. Come with me."

"I'll leave you two alone then, no funny business." Rem winked.

Nai resisted the urge to snap back. He waved for Legato and they headed to his room. It was actually rather boring compared to Vash's but there were a few things of note. The wall was lined with pictures of him and Vash together. He had a large bookshelf filled with sheet music and history books. The thing that drew Legato's attention immediately was the thing Nai had put the most work into, the greenhouse window with shelves full of flora.

"What are these?" Legato asked, kneeling on Nai's bed to get close to them.

"They're all flora. They are designed to survive in climates similar to No Man's Land. Careful, some have thorns." Nai joined Legato's side. "This one aloe barbadensis. You can eat it and it also has medical purposes. This one is coriandrum sativum, its an herb that you can eat the leaves and seeds of. Vash says it tastes like soap, but Rem enjoys it. This one is opuntia velutina, you can remove the thorns and eat the pads but it also produces these." Nai pointed to a bright red fruit coming off of one of the pads.

Nai picked off one of the fruits and formed a blade from his hand. Carefully he peeled off the skin and thorns before handing it to Legato. "Try it."

Legato took a bite, "Its sweet!"

Nai smiled at him as he ate the rest, greedily licking the juice from his fingers. "I hope to produce thousands of them and put them all across No Man's Land. There are hundreds of other flora people can eat too. If they learn to farm and grow flora they can rely on Plants less."

"Can I help?" Legato asked, licking some juice from his cheek.

Nai nodded, "Sure. I would appreciate that."

Legato smiled ear to ear, curling up and hugging his knees infront of Nai. "Vash mentioned you had a garden?"

"Yeah I do, come on let me show you it." Nai stood and started to retract his knife back into his body. Legato watched intrigued. "...Are you interested in my knives?"

"They are so pretty." Legato's voice was full of wonder.

Nai let out a soft snort and produced a few from his back, gently coiling them around Legato. "Most people are afraid of them."

"Why would I fear my salvation?" Legato said, reaching out to brush his fingers against the flat of the blades.

Nai lowered his eyes and watched Legato laced inbetween his knives. There wasn't an ounce of fear on his face despite the deadly cage around him. Nai tightened the chains, practically encasing Legato. Legato simply leaned into them, resting his cheek against one. Nai realized in an instance this wasn't trust, it was acceptance. Legato was willing to let Nai do whatever he wanted with him, even slice him to ribbons. Nai spread his knives, moving them away from Legato. The boy looked almost disappointed. Nai gently cupped a hand under Legato's chin, forcing him to meet his gaze. "Do not be so eager to leave my side. Your life is valuable." Nai whispered.

Legato gasped and then practically melted in Nai's palm, a massive grin on his face. Nai sighed and gave Legato a pat before leading him out of the room, his blades falling back inside him. As they traveled along Nai pointed out different locations on the ship before heading to the roof.

"Here we are. My garden." Nai said.

Legato went wide eyed at the massive arrangement. There were dozens of flower beds, trees and pots teaming with life. Hundreds of different species of flora filled the entire roof. Nai had used every square inch of the room to grow flora of every shape and size. Legato walked along the rows and rows of greenery in pure awe. Nai started to pace around, examining each plant as he past.

"Tsk, this one is a failure..." Nai looked over a browning brush.

"What's wrong with it?" Legato asked coming over.

"I have to basically reverse engineer each one of these and sometimes I get it wrong. They have to be able to withstand the climate as well as any illnesses or parasites the planet might throw at them... like those." Nai pointed ate a cloud of worms, rapidly eating at a vine of grapes. "I'll have to make note of that as well. They can't feed people if the worms go for them."

Legato frowned, "Should we stop them? You worked so hard on all of this."

Nai shook his head and simply went on with what he was doing. "Failures are also a form of growth. Now I know that flora won't work for my plans." Nai reached up into an apple tree and plucked one off, handing it to Legato, "If you learn from your mistakes then no matter what you have done you can eventually move past them. It just takes time and effort."

Legato took a bite of the apple and smiled, "I really like the things you grow. They all taste good."

"You're welcome to try more, just be careful some are-" Nai didn't get to finish his sentence as Legato picked a habanero pepper and bit into it. He choked on it and covered his mouth. Nai snorted and then burst into laughter as Legato fanned his burning tongue.

Legato settled quickly into his new life. Nai was convinced he had taught himself how to read with how quickly he picked it up. Once some of the stress started to leave he had a very late growth spurt, reaching the height he was supposed to be. Vash started to get unsettled by just how similar he looked to his former self, going out of his way to get Legato clothes that weren't white to try and alter his appearance. Nai and Vash reached adulthood quickly while Legato slowly reached it himself.

"Hey! A couple of the techs wanna go to the bar! Wanna come with?" Vash shouted across the garden.

Nai retracted his knives, having finished pruning some hard to reach branches while Legato's arms where full of the clippings.

"No, not really?" Nai shook his head.

"Come on, you have to socialize Legato more! He only talks to you, me and Rem!" Vash argued, jumping over a few pots.

"We could use a break Nai." Legato said, smiling gently at him.

Nai groaned, "Fine!"

They followed the group, Vash already blending in perfectly with the techs, laughing and talking with everyone. Nai and Legato stayed back, both having trouble finding a way to get into the conversation. Not that either was making an effort.

They got a large table and sat around. Legato leaned in to listen to everyone talk while Nai leaned back, just waiting for the outing to be over.

A group of girls were giggling nearby, one of them clearly looking at Legato and shaking her head. He friends kept pushing her.

"Go on, talk to him." One whispered.

"Tsk, they always go for the pretty ones." One of the techs at their table grumbled.

Legato side eyed the girls, leaning closer to Nai.

One of the girls seeing this rolled her eyes, "Sasha forget it. He only has eyes for that freak."

The girls all began to laugh until the one who just spoke started to violently cough.

"Diana what's wrong?" One of the girls started rubbing her back.

"I can't- I can't breath. My chest." Diana clutched her chest, gasping for air and clearly in pain.

Vash and Nai both sat up, now on alert. Nai looked at Legato. His stare was directly on the girl, pure hatred behind his eyes. His hand subtly twitched and pulled, as if commanding invisible threads.

Nai grabbbed Legato's shoulder and yanked him back, hissing in his ear, "Stop it, now!"

Legato immediately let go and the girl breathed fully, coughing up a handful of blood. Her friends and the other techs at the table rushed over to make sure she was okay. In the confusion Nai grabbed Vash and Legato, to run outside.

"Nai, what's going on?" Vash asked.

"Legato used his telekinesis to hurt her." Nai said.

Vash looked at Legato, subtle fear in his eyes.

"She called you a freak. I won't stand for it." Legato crossed his arms in front of his chest.

"That's doesn't mean you can just kill them!" Vash argued.

"I was only going to torture her a bit. Make her lungs stop for a moment or two." Legato stated.

"No torture!" Nai barked.

Legato shrunk back slightly, gaze fixed on Nai. "...Nai how did you know I have telekinesis?"

Nai froze.

"I've never used my gift around either of you. Yet the moment she started to convulse you knew to look at me. I wasn't even moving. Also you always seem to know so much about me. You knew my favorite food before I did. You didn't even hesitate when giving me a name, like you already had one planned. Nai... why do you know so much about me?" Legato asked.

Vash looked panicked, eyes flicking between Nai and Legato.

Nai let out a deep breath before closing his eyes. "...This isn't the first time I've known you. In fact... this isn't the first life time we have spent together."

"Nai!" Vash protested.

"No... I'm telling him everything." Nai said. "Legato... I once tried to wipe out humanity."

Chapter 7

Notes:

So I have a job interview tomorrow so this is going up early.

They went back to the garden, locking the door to the roof behind them to get some privacy.

"Alright so we are going to start from the top with the genocide I take it?" Legato sat down on a bench.

Nai nodded, Vash sitting next to him across from Legato. "...Everyone on this planet reincarnates after they die and only Vash and myself remember this. A little over 350 years ago I tried to destory humanity and failed. Then I tried again 150 years after that and failed again."

"He really doesn't like humans..." Vash mumbled.

Legato sat there, nodding along.

"Are you believing any of this?" Nai asked.

"Oh I believe every word." Legato answered. "I don't see why you would lie to me Nai. Especially about double genocide. So how do I fit into this?"

Vash blinked a few times, "Geez you would believe the sky was green if Nai said it, wouldn't you?"

Legato shrugged and both Nai and Vash groaned, rubbing their faces.

"Anyway! The way you fit into this is... I saved you from slavery once before. I meant to kill you, I was going to, you stopped me with your telekinesis. Then you asked to come with me and on a whim I said yes." Nai explained.

Legato leaned forward, folding his hands and resting his elbows on his knees. "So I served you before?"

"Yes. You were my most loyal henchman... and I treated you like dirt. I shattered your spine and you remained eternally loyal. In the end I gave you one job, torture Vash and break him so he would see things from my point of view."

Legato rubbed his chin, "What happened after that?"

Vash sucked in a breath, breaking slightly as he confessed, "I killed you..."

"You... you forced him into a no win situation. He ended up shooting you." Nai stared at the floor. "You forced him to break his moral code for me."

They all were silent for a moment and then, softly, Legato began to laugh. He reached up and ran a hand through his bangs, breaking into a full on cackle. Vash turned to Nai for answers. Nai looked just as confused and then looked back at Legato.

"I'm sorry! I'm sorry! I'm just so happy!" Legato said through teary eyes and a massive grin. "It would be so beautiful if it wasn't so tragic."

"Legato are you... okay?" Vash's voice quaked slightly.

"Of course I am. You're telling me not only did I succeed in my mission for Nai but he came back and claimed me again. I get to serve him all over. That's beautiful. The only thing is I'm sorry I had to hurt you so much to do it Vash considering we are friends now... Also the fact that I'm here means we didn't destroy humanity, which makes me sad." Legato folded his hands in front of himself again.

Vash looked sick, "You still want to end humanity?"

"I do. I am disgusted by them. Nothing would make me happier than to get rid of all of them." Legato stated, "If anything though all of this has confirmed one thing for me. I exist on this planet to serve Nai, and I always will. For eternity."

Vash looked like something inside him had shattered while Nai took a slow deep breath. "Let's take a break."

"Yeah..." Vash stood and went to walk around the garden.

Legato stood and repositioned himself right next to Nai, resting his head on his shoulder with a loving gaze.

"...Legato there is something I should tell you." Nai bit his lip.

"Its that you don't love me." Legato answered.

Nai went stiff.

Legato chuckled, his laugh floating on the soft breeze around them. "I already know. After that confession I know you will never love me. I'm content to just serve you my master. No matter what you desire." Legato closed his eyes, smile gently resting on his face.

"Doesn't that disappoint you?" Nai asked. He clenched his fists, refusing to look at the man on his shoulder.

Legato hummed softly, as if combing through his feelings, "No, not really. I can't love myself. Why would I expect you to?"

"Legato please." Nai pleaded.

"Please what?" Legato shifted to look Nai in the face. "Why should we lie to eachother Nai? You hate humanity even though you are trying not to. I'm in the same boat currently. And seeing as I'm human, we must both hate me."

"You should love yourself." Nai argued.

"There is nothing to love about what I am." Legato closed his eyes, "The only thing I love is you master."

Nai frowned, reaching up to cup Legato's cheek. Legato leaned into it, he no longer feared being touched there. "You deserve so much better." Nai hushed.

"I can't see how." Legato whispered, "Currently, I'm in heaven. Just let me stay by your side and I will never be left wanting."

Nai brushed a thumb against Legato's cheek. "...I never got to tell you thank you. You worked so hard last time we were together. To the very end you never stopped thinking about me. I should have recognized your efforts more."

Legato's hair rustled slightly, the wind picking up and making the flora around them shimmer. "But you have. Because I am here, sitting with you now under a much kinder sky."

Nai put his hand down, trying to hide the fact that he had become misty eyed. Vash leaned against a tree and watched them from a distance, arms crossed and contemplative. Nai waved him over and he joined them again. "Alright, so not killing humanity. No hurting them either if possible. Vash beat us both in the end, we follow his rules." Nai instructed.

Legato nodded, "Continuing the flora plan."

Nai nodded, "Right, you're still going to help me correct?"

"Always master." Legato grinned.

"You don't have to call me that." Nai grumbled. "It's embarrassing."

"How about in private then?" Legato smirked.

"When did you get so cheeky? You never used to talk back." Nai growled.

Vash chuckled a bit at the banter. He smiled but it was a old one he had worn for years and had long since lost its shine.

Later that night after Legato went to sleep Nai went to wander the halls and think. As he walked he gently heard piano music in the distance and found Vash playing quietly by himself. Nai smirked and walked over, sitting next to him and joining in. Vash glanced at him and the twins beginning to play in sync.

They played multiple songs together, neither needing to direct the other. Nai closed his eyes, massive grin on his face as they played. Vash pulled his fingers away and suddenly hugged Nai tightly.

"Vash?" Nai asked confused.

"Today was... a lot." Vash buried his face into Nai's shoulder.

"Want to talk about it?" Nai asked.

Vash was quiet for a moment before wetting his lips. "Does the past still haunt you?"

Nai barely could hold back his laughter, "More than you will ever know!"

Vash chuckled, "Okay. Yeah I should have expected that."

Nai smiled at Vash, "Everyday I'm haunted by what I did. What I'm currently doing. I no longer really know what is right or what is wrong. If there even is such a thing as morality. I'm just trusting you and praying one day it will make sense." Nai closed his eyes and tilted his head back. "I choose to trust my brother and keep moving forward. If I do both those things then I think things will turn out."

Vash gave a weak smile back and hugged Nai again, resting against him. "I hope Legato feels the same."

Nai chuckled, "Who knows, I just know wherever I go, he will follow so hopefully I'll get him somewhere good."

Vash felt heavy again Nai, as if he could feel his brother's burdens. "...Does it ever get easier Nai? These feelings?"

"Yes and no. But you already know that." Nai gently tapped a few keys.

"Yeah..." Vash didn't look up.

"At least you got both arms this time." Nai said.

"Don't jinx it!" Vash punched Nai in the side playfully. "Do you have any idea how hard it is to get sand out of a prosthetic? No you don't! Cus you always have two arms!"

"Sometimes more than two!" Nai teased.

Vash continued play punching Nai till they both were wrestling eachother on the floor, laughing inbetween bites and hits.

Chapter 8

The last few pots of flora gently dancing into the side car of the motorcycle, Legato lowering his hand down as he did.

"Its a lot easier to load things with you around." Nai strapped the tent supplies to the back of the side car since it was currently full of greenery.

"I hope to get better at controlling objects, people are just so much easier to manipulate." Legato said, getting situated in the drivers seat.

Nai sat behind him, grabbing the fuel line and putting it in his thigh. "You still did a fantastic job." Nai wrapped his arms around Legato's waist, the man still felt so thin, Nai worried sometimes he would snap him in half.

They had made a lot of trips like this over the years. Loading up the side car with flora and delivering them to settlements. Sometimes Vash would come with when Legato could borrow a cycle from someone or if they got a cart and road tomas. Usually though it was just the two of them over a weekend to somewhere nearby.

Nai laid against Legato's back as he drove, gate giving just enough fuel to the bike. Legato's back was warm and comfortable. He could fall asleep easy against him if he wasn't careful. He could feel his heart beating rhythmically as they road across the sands.

Legato began to hum softly to himself, Nai recognized the tune, it was one he often played on the piano with Vash. Nai let his eyes relax. "Tell me if I'm too heavy." Nai murmured.

"I'll just lift you with telekinesis if you are." Legato replied.

"Don't wear yourself out Legato." Nai warned.

"You told me I literally held Vash in place for seven months without rest. I think I can handle you for a few hours." Legato retorted.

"Yes but you were at your peak." Nai argued.

"I was paralyzed from the neck down! That was not my peak! I could have probably done so much better. I'm honestly disappointed in myself." Legato replied.

Nai burst into laughter, "You're disappointed that you held Vash in place for seven months!?"

"Yes and then you said he escaped because of Wolfwood! I've never met Wolfwood but I know I can take him in a fight!" Legato said, "I could take on anyone for you! I should have stopped them!"

Nai wheezed, "Legato! You can't even remember this happening! Why are you mad at yourself!?"

"...Because I should never fail you. Failure isn't an option." Legato sounded like he was pouting slightly from inside his helmet.

Nai gave Legato a small squeeze around the waist, helmet hiding the grin on his face. "Legato I'm not the same man as back then. You are more than allowed to make mistakes. Though I always will appreciate your dedication."

Legato was quiet but Nai could tell he was practically glowing from the praise he just received.

"You are so loyal. I couldn't ask for someone better at my side." Nai added.

Legato shivered slightly. Nai smirked, he always got a kick out of how happy praise made his faithful follower. It also was nice to spoil him a little after being so cold to him in the first cycle.

"T-thank you master." Legato mumbled, completely flustered.

Nai held back a chuckle and once again got comfortable against Legato's back. He made note that Legato's heart was now racing. It was too fun messing with him sometimes. He did it often in the first cycle too but in reverse. He would test Legato's loyalty, make him think he didn't care. Give him the hope that if he tried hard enough he would get his master's attention. Now though, things were a lot healthier. Legato could get as much attention as he wanted. Nai was more than happy to give him every word of praise he deserved.

They arrived in Trashe's Wall a few hours later and got straight to work. A couple of local kids running out to see what they were up to. Following behind them was Marnie, a large woman who basically ran the place.

"Good to see you Nai! How's your brother?" Marnie asked.

"Good good. He is helping the Plant we got from New July today. We were able to really extend her life way past what is was supposed to be but she is probably going to die this weekend." Nai said unloading a large orange sapling.

Marnie gave him a gentle look. "Didn't want to be there?"

Nai turned away, grabbing another tree. "It... its hard for me when they die."

Marnie chuckled, "You really are a sweet man. If you like you can visit our Plant while you are here. Its perfectly healthy right now but I know how much you like seeing them."

"Thank you Marnie." Gave her a hallow smile.

"And how have you been Legato? Nai working you too hard?" Marnie asked.

Legato laughed, "No I'm fine. He is kind to me as always."

"I'll bring you two a couple of beers. All this gardening makes me exhausted and I'm not even the one doing it!" She laughed and headed off into town.

Legato and Nai waved back, both feeling somewhat empty. They both had become masters of faking kind and warm expressions. Marnie was a lovely person but neither could shake their hatred toward humanity. Still this town, along with so many others, did take the edge off. Just like the sprouts they planted, they were willing to see if hope could prosper here. Marnie returned with two beers for them as they continued to plant the flora.

"Oh Nai honey this one is new! What is it?" Marnie asked.

"That is corn. It was a staple crop for some parts of Earth. I'm going to leave some recipes for what you can do with it when it grows." Nai explained.

Marnie chuckled, "You two will never stop amazing me. You keep at it, I'll bring you both some supper later."

They sat outside next to their tent as the suns set below the horizon. Marnie had made worm chili using some peppers and tomatoes Nai had planted last time he came. He decided to eat it, savoring the fruits of his labor. As the day lost more light some of the local kids came out to chase worms and look at the new crops. Legato and Nai both sank into the sand, exhaustion settling into their muscles.

"Good work today." Nai said through a mouthful.

"You too master." Legato replied.

"Hey, not in public remember?" Nai scolded.

Legato chuckled, taking a sip of his beer, "Right right."

Nai rolled his eyes but he would be lying if he said he didn't enjoy this version of Legato. Still just as loyal but willing to talk back a bit. He was a good friend. Nai slumped to the side, leaning against him.

"You want to hit the sack?" Legato asked.

Nai nodded, the food was sitting heavily in his stomach. He needed to lay down.

Legato opened the tent and helped Nai inside. He closed it behind them and Nai collapsed onto his pillow. Sweat stuck to his body and his muscles were warm from all the work they did. Legato laid down next to him and brushed the hair out of his eyes.

"Sleep tight master." Legato whispered.

Nai laid there, tired and ready for sleep. He felt a buzzing inside though, as if his body wasn't ready to unleash all the energy it used today. Nai opened his eyes just enough to see Legato through his lashes. Legato was watching him, wistful look on his face. Suddenly Legato leaned in and kissed Nai's cheek, just off of his lips.

"I love you master." Legato's voice was barely audible.

Nai remained still, wondering how many times Legato had done this private ritual in his sleep. Legato sat on his sleeping bag, hugging his knees and gazing at nothing. He gritted his teeth for a moment and then buried his face into his legs. Nai shifted and Legato jumped.

"Are you beating yourself up for loving me?" Nai asked.

Legato turned beat red, "You... were awake weren't you?"

"I was. Answer my question." Nai insisted.

"I... No... that's not why I'm mad at myself." Legato looked away.

"Why are you mad at yourself?" Nai asked.

"...I kissed you." Legato growled.

"It was just a kiss on the cheek." Nai said.

"No I... people only kissed me to take. Take pleasure, take control, take innocence on their tongues and devour it. Now I'm taking a kiss from you. It's... disgusting." Legato shuttered.

Nai blinked a moment, "...I don't think I understand."

"I want to give you affection not take from you. I don't want to be another greedy human who only takes and never gives." Legato hissed, his nails digging into his arm.

Nai reflected on Legato's words before scooting closer. "Come here a sec." Legato turned to him and Nai cupped his cheeks. "Kiss me again. I'm giving you permission to give me affection."

Legato's face burned. "I-"

"Don't chicken out." Nai demanded.

Legato swallowed hard and leaned in slowly. His lips brushed against Nai's before falling fully into them. He shuttered, overwhelmed by the sensation. Nai pulled him back and Legato's head was spinning. Nai let out a laugh and then leaned in to kiss Legato again. Legato sank into him, running his hands through Nai's hair, pulling their bodies closer. Nai broke the kiss, staring down at his wanting follower.

"Shhh, easy. Don't go crazy." Nai ordered.

"Master." Legato wrapped his arms around Nai, want strangling his voice.

Nai ran a hand through Legato's hair. "Was that too much? I honestly don't know how to do any of this."

Legato nodded his head, face buried in Nai's chest. "It's definitely something lovers do."

"Shit." Nai leaned his head back. "I'm giving you the wrong impression."

"Just let me hold onto it. Just let me keep that memory forever and I'll be satisfied." Legato begged into Nai's chest.

Nai groaned, petting Legato's head, "I... I just wanted you to know you aren't taking from me. You give me a lot Legato. I don't have to fear you using me like other humans."

Legato let out a small whine into Nai's chest. A sound of understanding but still completely blown away from making out.

Nai sighed, running a hand through his hair, "Shit." He repeated.

"I know... I know this isn't love master." Legato assured him.

"...I'm sorry Legato." Nai said.

Legato shook his head. "No, this is... this was wonderful." Legato looked up at Nai. "It was a mistake but it got across what I wanted. Thank you."

Nai scratched the back of his neck looking away. "I'm sorry for misleading you."

Legato grinned, squeezing Nai tightly, "Master you have nothing to apologize for."

Nai sighed, "Let's just go to bed."

Legato let go, flopping over happily. "Goodnight master!"

Nai fell back down, pressing the heels of his palms into his eyes. He was going to regret this he just knew it.

And yet, something was nice about what just happened. There was no fake warmth in his words this time. He did trust Legato, he didn't feel like a parasite. He wasn't a human who would only take and never give. He understood.

Nai rolled onto his side and put an arm over Legato, closing his eyes and getting comfortable. Legato snuggled back into him, fully in blissful sleep.

Chapter 9

"So you two just stop aging at around 25 huh?" Legato said, taking a bite of birthday cake.

"Yup! Just stuck like this now for about 200 years." Vash replied, digging into his own slice.

"Rem you did not have to cut me a piece I'm not going to eat it." Nai complained.

"Oh hush, it doesn't matter if you eat it. It just matters that everyone gets a share." Rem answered.

Nai watched her for a moment. How many times had he heard her say that? He wondered if that would always be a constant.

Legato reached over and took Nai's cake.

Rem chuckled, "Well I guess that works. Legato where do you even put away all the food you eat?"

Legato shrugged, taking another bite.

"Hey Rem we have a problem." One of the techs came into the room.

"What's up?" Rem stood.

"We got a distress signal from Lowland. Apparently their Plants are failing but the town is currently being held hostage by bandits for a ransom." The tech explained. "They aren't letting anyone in or out."

"Lowland is a pretty large settlement. This must be a huge gang." Vash looked concerned.

"Let's go." Nai stood.

"Hold it! That is way too dangerous for you two!" Rem said.

"Three. I'm going too." Legato stood up with Nai.

"No one is going anywhere!" Rem spread her arms in front of the door.

"Rem, we are the best equipped to do this." Vash protested softly.

"Oh? How?! You are just a bunch of kids!" Rem furrowed her brow.

Legato lifted a hand and gently made Rem walk to the left of the door.

"H-How did you do that?" Rem stumbled a bit when Legato let go.

"I have a gift." Legato smiled. "I promise not to slow the brothers down."

"Wait a minute!" Rem started back towards the door but Vash, Nai and Legato were already sprinting out. "Oh you three are going to be in so much trouble!"

"Go easy on us, it's our birthday!" Vash shouted, jumping over the railing of the stairs with Nai. Legato jumped after, sliding down a bit to cushion his landing.

Rem glared from the top of the stairs as the three ran to the garage.

"Are we confident enough to let Vash drive for any of this?" Legato asked.

"Absolutely not." Vash and Nai said in unison.

"Got it. Me and you then." Legato replied, grabbing a helmet.

"Seriously, he crashed the bike three times when I tried to teach him." Nai put his own helmet on and sat down.

"Maybe we should invest in a car." Vash said flopping into the sidecar.

"Oh so you can crash that too?" Nai growled.

"No, so I can sleep in the back." Vash grinned. Legato held in a laugh the best he could, though he was failing miserably.

"Don't encourage him!" Nai barked.

They set out on the road, Nai setting up a fast pace to get away quickly just in case Rem sent anyone after them.

"So how long do you think it will take for her to realize the three of us are killing machines?" Legato asked.

"Never, Rem sees us as sweet little babies and you as the wet paper bag of a kid we brought home one day." Nai responded.

"We are not killing machines!" Vash protested.

"You blew up the fifth moon!" Nai shouted.

"So the Humanoid Typhoon really did blow up the moon." Legato looked at Vash.

"Listen, I hate talking about it especially since both of you helped cause it." Vash crossed his arms.

"We did?" Legato tilted his head.

"Its a long story." Nai said.

"We have a 12 hour drive ahead." Legato squeeze Nai's waist a little.

Nai groaned, "Okay let me go into more detail about everything... We haven't really discussed it since we told you the truth."

Vash sighed and sank into the side car more. "I was hoping this would be a fun road trip, not a trip down sad memory lane."

"We can have a happy memory road tip later. Maybe on the way back we can visit Hopeland. Wolfwood is probably about, what 15 now?" Nai counted back.

"God, teenage Nico." Vash whispered.

"You keep mentioning Wolfwood. I want to know more about him already. I vaguely know he dated Vash." Legato asked

"Right right story time." Nai waved a hand.

Nai and Vash chimed into one another's telling of the past, Legato holding on tight behind Nai as they went. The tale was long and in the end made both of them a bit melancholy. They decided to stop for the night, Nai getting some camping supplies out of a pack the kept on the side car.

"So we are going to have to share, I only packed two sleeping bags." Nai said after setting up the tent.

"Dude why don't you always just have three?" Vash asked.

"We can fit more flora when we pack less camping supplies. I've been arguing for just sharing a sleeping bag with him for a while." Legato stretched before taking his boots off to go in the tent.

Nai went quiet, thinking about the kiss they had a few months ago. Legato hadn't made any more moves on him. He wasn't lying when the memory of that one kiss was enough. Nai just added it to the ever growing list of things he felt guilty about.

Vash joined them flopping ontop of one of the sleeping bags, "I'm really glad you two are planting flora. It puts my heart at ease."

Nai laid next to Vash, Legato curling up on his free side. "We're at least trying."

"I'm still struggling to see this as us doing good. It's like I'm feeding vermin and calling it a good deed." Legato admitted.

Vash sighed, "Happy feeling gone."

"Just let the man forgive humanity at his own pace." Nai waved a hand.

Legato buried himself into Nai's side, getting comfortable for the night. "Don't let it bother you too much Vash."

Vash grumbled, sinking down. Nai chuckled, pulling both of them closer. "Get some rest, we have a fight tomorrow."

Vash waggled a finger. "No killing anyone!"

"Even if you absolutely have to? Even if innocents are on the line? " Legato sat up, giving a knowing smirk at Vash.

Vash glared silently at Legato. "...I hate you sometimes."

Legato laughed, "I don't blame you Vash. But I promise no killing. My skills are luckily well suited for nonlethal combat anyway."

Vash nodded and laid back down. Nai let out a small sigh of relief that Vash didn't want confirmation from him as well. As they all settled into sleep Nai reflected on the last time he killed, still haunted by his rampage years later. He stared up at the roof of the tent, drowning in his thoughts.

"Master." Legato whispered in his ear.

Nai looked down at him. Legato grinned and reached up to brush his fingers through Nai's hair.

"You need rest too." Legato purred.

"Can't sleep. Too anxious." Nai stated.

Legato gently scratched his scalp, "Want me to help?"

Nai raised an eyebrow. Legato sat up and lifted his hands over Nai.

"I've only done this on humans before but I think it should work on you as well." Legato whispered.

Nai suddenly felt every muscle in his body relax. Every ounce of tension left him. His heart rate slowed as well as his breathing. Through half open lids he looked at Legato, wanting to speak but finding his jaw couldn't move.

"Relax, let me take care of you master, as you have done for me." Legato soothed.

Nai closed his eyes, trusting Legato completely. As he drifted to sleep his thoughts were of a red room and Legato kneeling, soaked in blood. His face was wrapped in pure joy, as an indescribable pain left him.

The next morning Vash was the first awake, stretching and making sure his gun was clear and ready for action.

"This feels way to similar to the first cycle." Vash mumbled to himself, putting in a new clip.

"Least its not the Gung-ho Guns you're fighting." Nai yawned, coming out of the tent next.

"Morning, not like you to sleep in." Vash smiled.

"Legato did this thing to me last night and I seriously have never slept better. It was incredible." Nai stretched, popping his back.

"People used to pay a lot to have me do that." Legato said coming out. "Usually have sex with me after."

Both Nai and Vash locked up.

"...I'm okay talking about it you don't need to freak out." Legato chuckled.

"I'm surprised you were okay with doing it though." Nai said.

"Its fine if its for you." Legato waltzed around Nai, cheeky grin on his face. "Beside you looked so peaceful in your sleep for once."

Nai blushed and quickly got up to pack up their supplies, grabbing Vash to help. Soon they were on the road again, all a lot less jocular than the day before. Lowland was getting closer and all of them were on high alert for bandits.

"Hey! You three! Stop right there!" A voice boomed over a megaphone.

Nai hit the brakes, Vash almost flying out of the side car and Legato pressing hard into his back. Nai looked over to see a large man with a group of riffle wielding men.

"You guys the one holding up Lowland?" Nai asked.

"No we're the Sierra Vista bounty hunters group! I suggest you three leave unless you want to be turned into Swiss cheese!" The man on the mega phone shouted.

"If you guys are bounty hunters what are you doing out here? Aren't you supposed to be rounding up the bad guys?" Vash asked, pulling himself up.

"Are you outta your mind? The Bad Lads Gang are a bunch of madmen. We're waiting till they run out of supplies and are weakened before rounding them up." The bounty hunter said.

"You're sacrificing the people of Lowland for money then." Legato accused. Nai started to tense up.

"Listen, their Plants are dying, their surrounded by bandits. That town is doomed." The bounty hunter explained.

Nai spat on the ground, "You're nothing more than a pack of feral dog pretending to be men!"

"Excuse me!" The man's face burned bright red.

Nai revved the engine and sped off towards Lowland, "If you're not going to do anything we will, you damn cowards!"

As the trio became nothing more than a dust cloud on the horizon the captain with the megaphone grumbled and puffed his chest.

"Hey sir! Look at this!" One of his men shouted.

"What!?" He shouted back.

"I thought the driver looked familiar. Take a look!" He handed his captain a sheet of paper.

On it was a bounty for an unnamed man, wanted for the murder of 10 people along with property theft for 20,000 double dollars. The image was taken from a security camera but clearly matched Nai.

"Oh, well now. Boys I think we are about to make a killing." The captain smirked.

"Easy Nai! I'm gonna fall out!" Vash gripped into the edges of the sidecar.

Nai narrowed his eyes, easing up a little. Rage burned through him. Once again humanity was showing its true colors. A sharp whistle from Legato broke him out of his blinding fury.

"We have company." Legato stated.

Hoops and hollers surrounded them as sand ships started circling them. Bright neon signs on posts ripped through the sky with flashing "BL" lights on them.

Vash took out his long colt while Legato repositioned himself, hand raised as his threads manifested. With his back free Nai was able to start producing his signature blades.

"Everyone ready?" Nai asked.

"Yup." Vash pulled the hammer back on his gun.

"Yes sir." Legato flexed his hand and one of the sand ships careened off course, slamming into another.

The air erupted into a storm of bullets.

Chapter 10

Nai's blades deflected rounds from Vash and Legato. Vash began sharp shooting, expertly hit exposed joints and some of the ships fall apart, the debris blocking others. Legato continued to glide his hands around, rupturing engine parts or moving vehicles.

Nai bobbed and weaved the motorcycle around the ships, keeping everyone as safe as possible. Then a ship zoomed in front of them with a massive net. Nai swerved but lost all momentum and the trio was surrounded.

As the hail of bullets hit the motorcycle the boys dove behind it. All guns were trained on them as a circle of bandits formed.

"Ya'll must be a special kind of stupid to pull this off!" One of the gang members shouted through his helmet.

"Awe, Nai he called us special." Vash said.

"Legato if you would." Nai glanced at him.

"With pleasure." Legato twisted both his hands and all the bandits in the circle froze.

Vash ran out from behind the ruined motorcycle and went up to each bandit, grabbing their guns out of their hands. "Thank you! Thank you! Oh you are too kind! So nice of you to hand these over."

"The hell urk- is going on!?" One of the bandits struggled to speak.

Legato stood and twitched his fingers. The bandits all walked together into a large pile. Nai got some rope out of the bullet ridden side car and started tying their hands.

"You guys did fantastic! I'm so proud of you." Vash beamed.

Nai gave him a warm smile, dusting his hands off once everyone was tied.

"Good work boys!" The Sierra Vista captain said approaching them. "Kinda shocked you managed to pull this off."

"Heh, well you know what they say about the luck of the young and the reckless!" Vash scratched the back of his neck.

"Well that luck has just run out." The captain pointed a revolver at them. "Hands in the air where I can see them."

"Eh!? But, what did we do!?" Vash put his arms up.

Nai and Legato both stood their ground.

"Your little friend here has a pretty bounty on his head." The captain held up the bounty showing Nai's face. "Ten killed in New July. Theft of a sex slave too. We'll be taking him along with the rest of the Bad Lads Gang."

Nai felt his heart stop, the color draining from his face.

"Nai... Nai he's lying right?" Vash turned to Nai. "That... you didn't. You couldn't!"

Nai balled his fists, clenching his teeth.

"Nai. Nai you said you where going to listen to me! You said you were going to change!" Vash shouted.

"It was a mistake!" Nai screamed, "I acted on instinct!"

"You don't just mistakenly kill people! You can't just take a life so easily! These are people Nai! How can you just murder someone without a second thought!?" Tears burned Vash's eyes.

"Alright enough blubbering! I'm taking him and the blue haired pretty boy." The captain gestured with his gun.

"Me?" Legato raised an eyebrow.

"Yeah! Turns out your owners are looking for you too!" The captain said.

Legato stiffened, eyes going wide, his irises shaking.

"100,000 double dollars for the return of their favorite play thing. Sounds like they were pretty mad someone ran off with you." The captain chuckled.

Legato started to hyperventilate, pure terror on his face. He lifted his arm and clenched his fist closed. The captain twitched violently, turned his gun to his temple, and then shot himself directly through his skull.

Vash and Nai both looked on in horror as the bounty hunter's lifeless body hit the sand, blood erupting from where his head used to be. Legato stood trembling, arm still out stretched.

Despair came to Vash's face as the reality rained down on him. He turned to Nai, an ancient look of betrayal in his eyes. That was enough to break the spell on Nai. He stood and ran to Legato, grabbing him up in his arms. Nai sprouted a massive set of angel wings from his back and immediately took to the sky, leaving Vash far below him.

He flew for what felt like hours, panic coursing through his heart. Madly he flapped his wings, pushing himself harder and faster than he had ever gone. Tears began to rain from his eyes, the wind quickly catching them and ripping them from his face. Exhaustion finally took hold and Nai collapsed into the sand as gently as he could. He clung to Legato, burying his face into the man's shoulder blades. Legato was catatonic, not speaking or moving. They stayed like that for a while, Legato frozen as Nai quietly cried into his back.

"I'm sorry master... this is all my fault." Legato eventually whispered.

Nai shook his head, "No, don't." Nai sat up in the sand, rubbing his face. "You were in hell, you reaction to a man threatening to put you back there was evidence enough."

Legato sat up with Nai, looking despondent.

"...We aren't going back." Nai stated, balling his fists.

"Nai-"

"Don't call me Nai! I'm not Nai anymore! I never really was. From now on... call me Knives." Knives said.

Legato gave a somber look and leaned forward. "Yes... Master Knives."

Knives wrapped his arms tightly around Legato, shaking slightly. His whole body felt heavy, his muscles ached. He didn't know why he had bothered trying. Zazie was right, he couldn't live like Vash. He couldn't maintain that perfection. Neither could Legato. Both of them were hurt, flawed, and jaded.

Legato pulled back just enough to lean his forehead to Knives and start brushing the tears from his cheeks. Knives choked on sobs, more tears coming, refusing to stop no matter how much he wanted them to. This was just the way things had to be. This was just who he was. He had run from the truth for years and years but in the end he always would be this. He always would be Millions Knives, the great plague of humanity.

His thoughts were broken when Legato's lips brushed gently against his cheek. Knives blinked and pulled back.

"Legato." Knives sternly questioned.

"You... you're in need." Legato whispered. "And I'm here for you."

Knives closed his eyes and wrapped himself around Legato again, his wings and arms encasing the man. He put his weight on him, his heart heavy in his chest. Legato held onto him and brushed his fingers through Knives's hair. "I'm here for you. You aren't alone."

Legato was his one oasis in this god forsaken desert but also his destruction. Over 100 years of atonement surrendered for one human. He wanted to hate him, but he couldn't. Legato was his, always his. His burdens, vices and desires were Legato's as well.

Knives suddenly pushed Legato to the ground, pinning him. Legato stared up in surprise. Knives glared at him with disgust and then violent clashed their mouths together, grabbing a fist full of Legato's hair. Legato made a small whimper under him, hands reaching up to grab his back. Knives could feel Legato tensing up. He didn't care. He took his frustration and anger out in that kiss. A tithe for everything he had lost. Legato started to steady himself, forcing through his past trauma to be what Knives needed. Knives pulled back and stared into Legato's dilated pupils, both of them out of breath.

"When I get my strength back we will find a town. I can sense other Plants so we will head towards one, stay there for a while until we save up enough money and then keep moving." Knives instructed.

"Yes Master Knives." Legato rasped out.

Knives pulled Legato back into a tight hug, or as tight as his spent muscles could pull. "We will survive. I'm never letting them take you back. You belong to me. You're mine."

Legato smiled, tears pricking the corners of his eyes. "Thank you Master."

Knives sat up and looked up into the sky. The twin suns danced over them. Knives closed his eyes and wondered how far apart those two stars actually were from each other. Knives squeezed his eyes closed and choked back another sob.

Legato stood, offering Knives a hand. Knives took it, lifting himself out of the dirt. Legato supported him as they began to move, heading toward an uncertain future.

"I think... I'm going to avoid him from now on." Knives whispered.

Legato turned to him to listen.

"I've caused my brother enough pain. From now on, I'll be the one that runs." Knives continued. "Vash deserves the peace and love he has always wanted. He only gets it when I'm not near. We're too... we're too different."

"Are you sure that will make him happy?" Legato asked.

Knives nodded, "He won't realize it at first. At first he will think we should be together. But it will become more evident with time. My brother will no longer be haunted by Millions Knives."

The two continued off toward a distant Plant, the start to their 15 year run as outlaws.

Chapter 11

Notes:

So I rewrote the entire second half of this fic. I'm insane.

Vash quietly opened the door to the roof top garden, a bitter wave hitting his heart as he entered. The flora were just how he had left them, leaves gently rustling in the breeze and horribly over grown.

Vash was not a good gardener. He had trouble figuring out which flora to trim and when and often he felt bad cutting any parts off and it had resulted in Nai's garden becoming an absolute mess.

Still people often came up and sampled the flora and the fruits it offered. Rem often tried to help Vash prune back the wild foliage. It broke Vash's heart to see the garden in such a state but it hurt him just as much to try and manage it back to how Nai had it. Everything about the garden was beautiful and painful and ate him up inside.

He reached up into an apple tree and plucked on of the fruits. Apple trees seemed to be Nai's favorites he planted them wherever he went. Whenever Vash traveled to work on a Plant he would keep an eye out for apple trees. Vash took a bite of the fruit in his hand, it was a bit overripe and the bitter taste of alcohol filled his mouth along side sickly sweetness. He should have picked these sooner but again, the garden was incredibly hard to maintain.

Vash took another bite, a shiver running down his spine. He walked over to the railing of the roof and looked out over the iles of flora Nai had planted, the suns already set and the last few flickers of light painted everything a warm red as in the distance blue overtook the sands. He rested his head down and closed his eyes.

"Nai..." Vash whispered to the breeze.

Vash reached in his pocket and pulled out a bounty. "Wanted, Millions Knives for murder, manslaughter, attempted murder, property theft, obstruction of justice, and disturbing the peace. $$300,000" Vash read out loud. "...Note... Pacifist." Vash shook his head and put it down on the bar. He kept up to date with Nai's bounties and every time they updated they started to look more and more like his old one.

"Thought I would find you up here." Nicholas opened the door to the roof and waltzed over to him. "Pouting again Needle Noggin?"

Vash chuckled, "Yeah you caught me."

Nicholas wrapped his arms around Vash's waist, leaning against him. He hovered his lips just behind Vash's ear. "Wanna talk about it? Or do you just want me to comfort you?"

Vash closed his eyes and enjoyed the feeling of Nicholas's weight on him. "I worry about him... every day I do."

Nicholas tilted his head to kiss Vash's jawline, "Do you want to do something about it?"

"I'm not really sure what I can do." Vash pointed out at the horizon. "He is... right over there. Right now, probably heading toward Rostrum. But the moment I try to catch him he will change course."

Nicholas nodded along, "Anyway you can stop him from knowing you are coming?"

"No, he can sense Plants... Wait." Vash turned to Wolfwood. "He can sense Plants but he can't sense humans! Nico! What if you tracked him down!?"

"What?" Nicholas shook his head, "Hold on you want me to hunt down your insane outlaw brother!?"

"I just... I just want to know how he is doing." Vash murmured. "I want to know if this thing is holds any truth." Vash showed Nicholas the bounty.

Nicholas sighed, "...What if it's wrong?"

"...Then I need to go after him." Vash stated, "I would need to stop him."

Nicholas groaned, "Alright and if it's telling the truth?"

"I... I want him to come home." Vash replied.

"Think me going will actually give you closure?" Nicholas asked.

"I think so." Vash whispered.

"Alright then I'm taking an payment now and a payment later." Nicholas said.

"P-payment!?" Vash squawked.

Nicholas laughed, putting a cigarette in between his teeth. "Hey you really thought I would do this for free?"

Vash grumbled, "I had hoped I had gotten the loving boyfriend discount."

Nicholas cackled, "Oh you are~ Normally this would cost you a fortune. Instead I think I just want you on your hands and knees for me tonight."

Vash blushed, "O-oh."

Nicholas took the cigarette out of his mouth long enough to kiss Vash. "And when I get back I want you in a maid outfit."

"A maid!?" Vash flailed backwards.

Nicholas smirked, "What? Doesn't having a little maid serve you sound fun? Especially a cute little blond?"

Vash squirmed a bit, "Okay fine. I'll get a maid costume."

Nicholas laughed, "Okay that's more than enough motivation for me! I'll see if Livio is willing to join me."

Vash grabbed Nicholas by the collar and kissed his cheek, "You want that advanced payment right now?"

Nicholas's cheeks flushed and then he grabbed Vash, "Hell yes I do."

Nicholas dragged Vash down and out of the garden toward their room.

Meanwhile in Rostrum two men sat next to the town's water Plant. Knives pressed a hand and his forehead to his sister's tank, healing her gently. His tattered blue coat fluttered gently in the evening air. Legato meanwhile had grown older than Knives had ever seen him he had matured gracefully into his 30s. He sat next to him as he worked, eyes closed and resting.

"There you go sis, good as new." He smiled.

Legato smiled up at him. "All is well then?"

"Yes she should be fine. Just a little cold." Knives rubbed his hand on the tank. He turned and looked out at the horizon. The last flickers of light beginning to dim. "Let's call it a night, tomorrow we can start planting flora here."

"As you wish Master." Legato stood, following behind him.

For a moment Knives's chest tightened, as if he felt Vash's gaze upon him. He decided to shrug it off. If he gave it too much notice he feared Vash would feel it. It was better to keep his brother out of his thoughts, for his sake.

"Hey Legato, would you like to have a few drinks?" Knives asked.

"Really? You drinking?" Legato turned to his master. "What is troubling you?"

Knives rolled his eyes, "I have a lot on my mind I would like to forget."

"Vash?" Legato asked. Knives looked away. Legato hummed softly, completely understanding. "Let's share a bottle of whiskey."

"Sounds good." Knives marched them along.

They got a bottle from the local bar and sat outside in the sand. The worms above them glowed softly, dancing among the stars. Legato scooted closer to Knives and wrapped an arm around his waist. Knives settled against his faithful companion.

The two were more than comfortable with each other, they often were mistaken for a couple. Knives didn't care, Legato was his to use and comfort was one of those uses. Legato knew where they stood, no romance burned between them. Knives drank another glass and sighed. Legato began to gently rub his back.

"I'll relax you tonight sir." Legato offered.

"Hmm that sounds good." Knives mumbled into his glass.

Legato smirked, continuing to gently rub him. Knives's face grew hot, alcohol quickly affecting him. He hiccuped and crawled into Legato's lap. Legato leaned back to accommodate his master. Knives pressed his lips to Legato's, enjoying the sensation and burn of alcohol on his tongue. Legato chuckled and kissed back, letting his tongue explore Knives's mouth. Knives chuckled and pulled back to smirk at Knives.

"Master you are drunk." Legato pet his head, his fingers gently scratching his scalp.

"Mmmm yeah." Knives practically purred, enjoying the sensation of letting go.

Legato shook his head. "I think you've had enough."

Knives gave a nod and collapsed into Legato's chest. He let his mind swim and sink into warm oblivion. Running from his troubles, like always.

Notes:

comments help with the writer zoomies. Also I literally have this fic entirely written now except for the last 2 chapters so I can switch to posting everyday instead of every other if anyone wants that.

Chapter 12

It was an incredibly hot day in the settlement of Rostrum. The sun scorched off the sand and made the air ripple like waves.

Through the desolate heat marched two priests, both looking utterly exhausted.

"Nico... You're boyfriend is insane for having us do this." Livio whined.

"Listen Crybaby, you know I can't let down Needle Noggin when he gives me those damn puppy dog eyes." Wolfwood grumbled. "We're almost there."

They shambled into town, walking inside a bar. They scanned the room and found their targets. At a table in the back was a tall man in a white coat with a skull attached to one sleeve. Across from him was a man they almost could mistake for Vash but with lighter hair and a blue coat.

"Howdy preachers. You're pretty far from the nearest church." The man behind the bar said.

"We're traveling priests. Got any water?" Wolfwood manged to get out.

The bartender laughed. "Sure thing. Go ahead and sit down."

Nicholas and Livio practically collapsed into the bar.

"Here you go boys! Drink up." The bartender slid over two glasses of water. "You're in luck, our water Plant just got repaired."

"Hmm? Really now?" Livio asked after downing his glass.

The bar tender nodded, "Yup! By the gentleman over there." The bartender pointed Knives out.

A waitress was putting two plates at their table though once she was gone Knives slid his over to Legato. Legato dug into both, a slight smile on his face.

"He don't look like much but I hear he might actually be an outlaw. No one in town wants to bug him though, 'specially after he just saved our asses." The bartender continued.

Nicholas pulled a crumpled box of cigarettes from his pocket and lit one. "Sounds like a pretty nice guy."

The bartender chuckled, "Well if you gentlemen need anything I'll be here."

Livio leaned over with Nicholas, both watching Legato and Knives. Knives yawned, leaning back in his chair.

"So where do you want to head after this?" Knives asked.

"Oh, I get to pick this time?" Legato smirked.

"I'll take it into consideration." Knives put his arms behind his head.

"Squinny Coffin."

"You literally just want to go there because the name is so stupid!" Knives said, slamming his hands down on the table.

Legato stifled a laugh, hand over his mouth, "Don't act like you don't want to know why it's called that too."

"Its going to take a month or a sand steamer to get over there!" Knives argued.

"We've got time." Legato purred out, taking another bite of food.

"You are too easy going sometimes." Knives grumbled.

Legato chuckled, "One of us has to be Master. Besides we can get some cuttings from an established settlement and transfer them along the way."

"Oh yes, lets just bring 50 pots of flora across the entire bad lands without them dying." Knives said.

"We could buy that truck finally." Legato wiggled his fork at him.

Nai narrowed his eyes, Legato smiling right back.

"...Okay so the truck might be a good idea." Knives admitted.

"See? I promise I won't let bandits blow this one up." Legato added.

"You can't make that promise Legato." Knives growled.

"Maybe not... but I can always force them to pull the wreck for us if they do." Legato said.

Knives cackled, "Alright how about this, we go back to Trashe's Wall and see Marnie, grab some flora and then, maybe, if I'm in a good mood, Squinny Coffin?"

Legato picked up his beer and tilted towards Knives, "Sounds good. Always nice to see Trashe's Wall."

"They seem kinda nice compared to the warning Vash gave us before getting here." Livio whispered to Nicholas.

Nicholas nodded and then made eye contact with Knives as he looked back at him. Knives was staring directly at him, hand on his cheek. Nicholas felt a chill go up his spine.

"Shit!" Nicholas hissed under his breath.

Legato hummed and turned around to look at the priest. "...Master do you know them?"

"I do." Knives mused.

Nicholas stood, grabbed Livio's hand and ran out the door.

"Hey! You didn't pay!" The bar tender shrieked.

"I got them." Knives waltzed over to the bar, putting a couple double dollars and a tip down. "Sorry, I spooked them."

The bar tender huffed, "What kind of priest skips out on his bill!"

"Nicholas D. Wolfwood." Knives said under his breath.

Legato paid for his meals and joined Knives's side as they exited the bar. "So... time to skip town?"

Knives nodded, "He sent them so I wouldn't sense them coming. I can always feel where Vash is but not his boyfriend. Let's go to the hotel and get our things."

They heard the click of a gun pulling back its hammer and both froze. A group of five men snickered, guns trained on them.

"Millions Knives! I'd like to have a word with you." One of the larger men said.

"Can it wait? I'm in a hurry." Knives said, unamused.

"Oh this will only take a sec. We just want the 300,000 double dollar bounty on ya." The man said.

"...Legato if you would." Knives looked to his partner.

Legato twitched his hand and the group froze.

"What the!?" The men twitched and shouted.

"Now, let me show you why you are going to pretend this never happened." Knives said.

The air suddenly was filled with hundreds upon thousands of knives. The bounty hunters jaws dropped as the cage up blades floated above them. Knives smirked before gracefully waving his hand. The knives fell like rain on the men but when the storm stopped all of them were fine. The only thing destroyed were their weapons, now cut into scrap metal. Legato let go and all five fell to their knees in shock.

"Have a nice day gentlemen." Knives waved, heading off with Legato toward the hotel they were staying at.

Meanwhile at a nearby payphone Nicholas and Livio were frantically calling Vash.

"Hey Needle Noggin!" Nicholas shouted over the line.

"Wolfwood! How goes it?" Vash asked.

"Okay, when you told me your brother goes by 'Millions Knives' I thought you meant it was just some stupid outlaw nickname. You didn't tell me the guy literally has a million knives! You owe me a new pair of pants asshole!" Nicholas railed into the phone.

"He used his knives!? Is everyone okay!?" Vash panicked.

"Yeah everyone is fine. He just used them to destroy a bunch of bounty hunter's guns and my dignity." Nicholas grumbled.

Vash sighed in relief, "How does... how does he look?"

"I don't know? He looks just like you. He and his boy toy are a bunch of weirdos but they seem happy enough." Nicholas said.

Vash smiled on the other end of his phone. "Thank you you Nicholas this... it puts my heart at ease a bit. Could you ask him to come home?"

"You want me to talk to him?" Nicholas stiffened.

Livio grabbed the phone, "Vash we just saw him literally make it rain knives!"

"Yes but he didn't hurt anyone!" Vash argued.

"It rained knives Vash. And his boyfriend has psychic powers!" Livio insisted.

Vash took a deep breath. Sometimes he needed to remind himself that both Livio and Nicholas were just normal humans in this cycle. No super powers, no healing, just two priests. "Okay, sorry I know I already have asked a lot."

"Its alright Blondie I know you are worried about him." Nicholas softened his voice. "...You sure he won't kill me for mentioning you?"

"I... I'm sure." Vash confirmed.

"Blondie that did NOT sound confident!" Nicholas was right back to being angry.

"No no I promise he won't!" Vash begged.

"Okay fine... if I die I'm having Razlo kill you!" Nicholas threatened.

"Oh sick really!?" Livio switched to Razlo on a dime.

Vash let out a small laugh, hearing Razlo in the distance, "I know he won't hurt you two... He won't." Vash reassured himself.

Nicholas glared for a moment and then sighed, "The things I do for love. Alright, see ya later Needle Noggin."

"Love you Nico." Vash replied.

"Love you too." Nicholas hung up the phone.

"...Am I really allowed to kill Vash if you die?" Razlo smirked.

"Honesty Raz, I'd like to see you try." Nicholas stamped out his cigarette and pulled out another one, holding it in between his teeth.

Razlo whistled, happily bouncing in his steps, "Alright let's go find good ol' 100 Spoons!"

"Hold it!" Nicholas grabbed Ralzo's collar. "Switch back to Livio first!"

"You are zero fun Nico." Ralzo rolled his eyes and relaxed before Livio took back control. "I think the knife show got him excited..."

Nicholas sighed and grab a hand through his hair. "Yeah, it probably did. You okay?"

"Don't worry, we're under control." Livio smiled.

Nicholas let out an exasperated groan, pulling his lighter out and flipping it in his hand. "Well at least something is going right." He lit his cigarette and took a long drag of it. He exhaling, smoke swirling around him in torrent wisps. "Alright... let's go dance with Knives."

Chapter 13

"Hmm I wish I had ordered a slice of cheesecake." Legato hummed, slinging his bag over his shoulder.

"Cheesecake?" Knives asked, grabbing his own.

"Yes, the bartender's wife made really good cheesecake and now I'm never going to taste it again." Legato said, as he opened the door for Knives.

"Maybe Squinny Coffin has good cheesecake." Knives started down the stairs.

Legato grinned, "Are we actually going?"

"Why not?" Knives said with an amused shrug.

Legato laughed, walking next to his master. "Fantastic. I really do hope it's more than just a stupid name."

They paid for the room and returned the key before heading out. As they marched toward the edge of town Knives suddenly stopped walking.

"Took you two long enough." Knives spoke as Wolfwood and Livio stepped towards them.

"Yeah well, forgive us for having to work up some courage." Livio smiled.

"How is my brother doing?" Knives asked.

"Good, good. He wanted us to bring you home." Wolfwood said.

Knives stifled a laugh, "Wait, wait. My brother sent you, to babysit me and take me home?"

"Uhhh basically?" Wolfwood shrugged.

Knives burst into a full on laugh. "That's incredible! How the tables have turned! I really hope he sees the irony!"

Livio and Wolfwood both looked at each other for answers, confusion clear on their faces.

Knives calmed down, finishing his laughter. "Either way, I'm not going back."

"Listen I know about what happened 15 years ago, but Vash misses you. Both of you. He talks about you constantly. So does Rem. She worries about you both." Wolfwood argued.

Knives put his hands in his coat pockets. "I know they do, but they shouldn't. They would both be a lot happier if they just forgot about me, pretended I don't exist. Vash has you and Livio. He can find all his other little friends too. He has plenty of people to fill his life and make it meaningful. He doesn't need someone around who only will remind him of his failures."

"But they're your family." Livio looked sorrowful.

"They are. That's why I also know its better if I'm not there. Go back to my brother and tell him I'm not coming back. Not this cycle, not next cycle. I'm always going to run away. Hopefully one day he will realize the best moments of his life... are without me." Knives turned and started to walk out of town.

"Hey wait!" Wolfwood took a step and a knife fell right in front of him. He froze as Knives didn't even turn back to look at him. Legato walked with him, slowly making their way out into the desert.

They had been walking for about 30 minutes before Legato finally turned to Knives and slung an arm around him.

"You are making it hard to walk." Knives warned.

Legato smiled at him, "Master, how can I make you feel better?"

Knives glared at him and then closed his eyes, "I want you to relax my muscles again tonight."

"As you wish my master." Legato removed his arm.

"Thank you Legato." Knives hushed.

-x-

Wolfwood put a few more coins into the payphone again and called Vash.

"How did it go?" Vash didn't even bother asking who was on the other end.

"Mmmm badly. Vash your brother is a psychopath." Wolfwood said.

"Did he hurt you!?" Vash shouted.

"Blondie you said we didn't have to worry about that!" Wolfwood shouted back.

"We're fine Vash, he just kinda said a bunch of cryptic stuff that didn't make sense." Livio pulled the phone from Nicholas.

"What did he say?" Vash asked.

"Well he mentioned he wouldn't come back in this cycle or the next so I have no idea what that means. And then he thought it was ironic you sent us to go get him. Does any of that make sense to you?" Livio explained.

Vash was quiet on the other end for a moment. "Yeah... I know what he meant."

"Hey Blondie, your brother mentioned heading to Trashe's Wall next. If you want we both can start trying to head them off." Nicholas suggested.

"...I suppose the chase is on then." Vash gave a weary chuckled. "I'll meet up with you guys first and then we can head there."

"Alright. Back into the desert I guess." Nicholas hung up the phone and groaned.

-x-

Legato took his shirt off in front of the hotel mirror and stared himself down. For being in his mid 30s he still was in pretty good shape. The years had given him a few scars and nasty mementos of their travels. It was funny to think about the small anemic teenager who used to stare back at him. It didn't feel like that long ago and yet somehow felt like a different life time. Legato groaned, stretching a popping a few joints. He was going to be incredibly sore for the rest of this trip, they had kept a brutal pace to outrun the priests.

Legato looked over his shoulder at Knives. The man hadn't aged a day since they began to run. Meanwhile for him, humanities flaws were a constant reminder. Legato wondered how long they could keep this up. How long he could keep this up? He smirked and then traveled over to the bed, crawling on and hugging Knives from behind. He knew in the end it didn't matter. He would go until he was broken.

Knives rolled his head back, glancing at Legato. Legato kissed Knives's neck and jawline, his fingers dancing across his chest. Knives closed his eyes and let his follower worship him.

Legato continued to pepper Knives with affection. Kisses on the cheek or shell of his ear, gently rubbing his sore muscles. Knives smirked as he fell back on the bed and Legato straddled him. He pinned his master down and continued lovingly kissing him on every piece of exposed flesh. Knives summoned a knife to his hand and held it to Legato's throat. Legato smiled down at him, completely accepting anything Knives wanted to do. Knives chuckled and instead of slicing through dropped the blade and pulled Legato into a kiss. Legato tilted his head slightly to deepen it, Knives felt years of hardship on his lips, dry and slightly cracked from the brutality of No Man's Land.

Legato broke the kiss and smiled, "Thank you for indulging me master."

Knives stretched his arms out. "How could I deny my most faithful follower?"

Legato chuckled and got to work on Knives's request from earlier in the day. He used his powers to gently relax every muscle in Knives's body. Knives let out a sigh, sinking into the hotel bed. Legato laid down next to him, stifling a grunt. His back ached and his legs felt restless. Knives drifted off to sleep while Legato watched him.

He tenderly kissed his cheek, a small ritual he still continued to this day. "Goodnight master. I love you."

Knives breathed softly next to him, completely relaxed while letting Legato's nightly confession go unacknowledged. Legato smiled and closed his eyes, his fingers daring to lace with Knives's.

-×-

The people's of Trashe's Wall boarded up their windows and doors as the bandit group marched their way through the streets. They carried with them crimson banners that unified them as a group. The one man who had resisted the invasion was currently pinned to the ground and long dead, 5 massive crimson nails holding him in place.

Elendira hummed softly to herself, marching her way over to the massive fields of flora. "I had heard rumors of settlements like this. Massive collections flora, like little mini Decembers. Did you have any idea that you were sitting on a gold mine?"

Marnie simply scowled at the woman.

Elendira shrugged at the silence of her hostage, picking a tomato off the vine and biting into it. "You're going to tell me how you grow these here. I plan on taking all of them and I can't have them dying before I make my sale."

"You know you could just wait for Nai to come back and show you how. He gives them freely." Marnie spat.

Elendira held her briefcase up to Marnie, "Like I believe for a second anyone would ever give away millions of double dollars for free. This world runs on cruelty."

Marnie stiffened, she already knew what was hidden inside that case at this point.

"Now, please start explaining how you grow these things." Elendira smiled.

Chapter 14

Vash finished checking everything he would need for his trip and headed toward the door, Rem waiting nearby. He gave her a gentle smile, going over to hug her tightly.

"I'll be back soon Rem, I promise." Vash whispered.

"I know you will... Vash please be careful. You always are so reckless with yourself. You make me worried sick." Rem said.

Vash didn't want to let go. The idea of chasing after his brother again was giving him anxiety. Like the past was forever fated to loop and any minute Rem would be ripped violently from him. She usually dies from old age now but every time still hurt like a bullet to the chest.

Rem stroked his back gently. "You and Nai. Both of you are such trouble makers. Bring him home safe okay sweetie?"

Vash sniffled, "I will."

Rem laughed, "Vash are you crying?"

Vash stood up and rubbed his eyes, "Yes, don't laugh at me!"

Rem put her hands on her hips, "Vash if you don't think you are up to tracking Nai down its okay."

"What!? No I have to go get him!" Vash flailed his hands.

Rem gently took one of Vash's hands and held it close. "I miss him too. When you told me what happened it... it hurt a lot. But I understood why he did what he did."

"Wait... you do?" Vash blinked.

Rem nodded. "I hate violence. I think killing it senseless and no one has the right to take the life of another. And yet I can't blame Nai for acting how he did. I remember Legato's eyes and body when he first got here. He felt so lifeless. Everything a child should have was taken from him and replaced with something awful. I can't begin to imagine the horrors he had been through. So Nai did what he thought he had to to save him in the heat of the moment. It horrible but sometimes, no matter how hard we try, there isn't another way." Rem looked down, a deep sorrow on her shoulders. "The weight of a life is a heavy one."

Vash stared at Rem for a solid minute in shock. He thought back to his previous lives, how hard he had clung onto Rem's ideals, what he thought she would have wanted. He thought about all the arguments he had with Wolfwood. He thought about holding his gun to Legato's head and pulling the trigger.

Vash leaned his head back and covered his eyes. He tried to cover the tears with laughter, "Yeah, yeah I suppose you are right."

"...Vash honey are you sure you don't want to stay?" Rem asked.

Vash leaned down and kissed Rem's cheek, giving her another hug. "I love you Rem. I'll be fine."

Rem gave him a gentle look. "You two are going to turn all my hair grey before you know it."

Vash ran towards the door, "You'll still be beautiful though!"

Rem laughed, giving him a small worried wave as Vash ran over to get on a toma.

"Alright buddy, this is gonna be a rough one." Vash patted the bird as they began to move.

He knew it was only a matter of time before Nai noticed his movements, and then it would be an endurance match. Who could outrun who the longest. Vash narrowed his eyes, Nai was strong but Vash had an advantage. He had wandered No Man's Land for a lot longer than Nai had. And in the end only one of them was the Humanoid Typhoon.

Vash snapped the reins, hoping for an early lead.

-x-

"I'll give it to ya for $$200,000."

"200,000!?" Knives banged his fist down on the table in between him and the old man he was trying to buy a truck from.

"Listen son you ain't gonna find another vehicle fer iles as good as this one." The geezer said.

"I can literally just walk to Trashe's Wall and buy one there." Knives growled.

"Pfff ya if ya wanna be a dead man! Haven't you heard? A gang took over Trashe's Wall. No one gettin' in there." The man spat as he spoke.

"A gang?" Legato perked up.

"The Crimson Army they call themselves." The old man said.

Knives sat back and slowly looked at Legato, disbelief on his face. Legato raised a questioning eyebrow.

Knives looked back at the old man, rubbing his temples. "This 'Crimson Army' are they lead by a woman named Elendira?"

"Ya! How'd you know that!?" The old man said.

"God damn it!" Knives banged the table again and then stood to march off some steam.

Legato watched Knives storm off. "Excuse us for a moment." Legato walked after Knives who was outside kicking up dust clouds in his anger.

"Elendira! Of course its fucking Elendira! Because when won't my past come to haunt me!? Next thing you know were are going to get a private musical performance from Midvalley!" Knives thrashed about.

"You keep saying names but none of them mean anything to me. Previous cycle?" Legato asked.

Knives sighed, running a hand over his face. "Elendira was the strongest member of the Gung-ho Guns. Even you respected her begrudgingly."

Legato opened his mouth slightly in shock and then rubbed his chin. "...Oh this is bad."

Knives groaned into the palms of his hands. "We have to get there and fast. I have no idea what Elendira is like in this cycle but I don't like the sound of it."

"Should we buy the truck?" Legato asked.

"We can't afford 200,000 unless we turn me in and claim my bounty." Knives retorted.

"Yeah, that is not happening. I would hate to have to break you out of jail... or have someone try to collect me." Legato shivered slightly with disgust.

"Let's just get... wait." Knives perked up.

"Master?" Legato tilted his head.

Knives suddenly sprinted over to a high rock and climbed on top of it. He stared out into the desert, focusing on something in the distance. Legato could see his Plant markings starting to flair up.

"No..." Knives took a step back.

"What is it?" Legato called up to Knives.

"Vash!" Knives growled. He let out a roar, running his hands through his hair. "Of all times, really!?"

Legato let out a displeased hum. "It seems the walls are closing in around us."

Knives let his arms fall to his sides, staring up at the cloudless sky. He wanted to run away. Now that Vash was heading towards them they were all but doomed. He needed to run, turn tail and head in any direction but Trashe's Wall.

But then he thought about Elendira and Marnie. He thought about all the flora he had planted with Legato. He thought of the children running happily around crops, helping tend to them and asking Knives questions about how they grow. He remembered leaning against Legato, eating chili and watching those same kids chase worms in the setting suns. So much time and effort had gone into that one place. He had worked so hard with Legato to make it something special. And it was special, it was the first place he had looked at a human and thought he truly could trust them. The first time he felt genuine hope.

Knives gritted his teeth, his rage binding his lungs. He wanted to scream but couldn't bring himself to. He had to keep moving. Knives composed himself and jumped down.

"We're going to Trashe's Wall." Knives ordered, marching out towards the sands.

Legato followed behind him, "Of course sir."

Knives set a brutal pace, practically running into the sand before he realized Legato was lagging behind. "Come on!"

Legato began to run to catch up.

-x-

Legato practically collapsed into their tent. The death march to Trashe's Wall had worn him out completely. Knives watched as sleep forced itself upon him. He could tell Legato had been fighting it but in the end, his body had limits. He was only human.

Knives hugged his knees and watched his companion's chest rise and fall. His sleep was not peaceful tonight. Knives knew he needed to slow down for Legato.

It was becoming more apparent the more they traveled. Legato's body was giving out on him. A long childhood of abuse and then an adulthood on the run had done a number on him, even if he didn't want to admit it. Knives's plant body meanwhile was perfectly fine, he could keep going forever. Just like Vash he could run till he reached the horizon.

Knives gently pet Legato's head. Maybe it was a good thing Vash was finally catching up to them. Maybe it was time to end all of this. One more confrontation with his brother to set things straight. He would make Vash understand that no matter how much he loved him, they could not be together. Vash's happiness could only grow if Knives wasn't around. Knives would travel far away and change his appearance, settle down and grow flora for a settlement. He would move only when he needed to hide who and what he was. It would be easier on Legato.

Knives became somber, he thought of his last fight with Vash. He barely acknowledged the corpse of Legato when they fought. He just was happy he served his purpose. The man was never buried as far as he knew. Just another set of bones in the sand. What would he do when this Legato died?

Legato coughed in his sleep, tensing up and rolling on his side. Knives's expression softened and he pet Legato gently. He never admitted to it but when he was stressed he would have nightmares. Sometimes he would wake up in a sweat and immediately rush out of wherever they were sleeping, hiding his terror. Legato was strong, Knives knew he was strong, but he still was so painfully human.

Legato started to calm down, settling back into restful sleep. Knives sighed and laid down himself, growing tried of his endless thoughts.

Chapter 15

Legato woke up in the middle of the night to a leg cramp. He clenched his teeth and quietly curled up, cursing under his breath. Through the splitting pain he stood and forced himself out of the tent to march around in the sand. His leg felt like it was ripping from the inside. Silently he berated his body for its weakness. He became so fed up he attached his threads to his own muscles and forced them to relax. The pain from the force was immense but he pushed through. Legato glared down at his limb, disgust rolling over him. He sighed and once he felt the pain leave him he crawled back into the tent only to find Knives sitting up and waiting for him.

"Master did I wake you?" Legato asked.

"Sit." Knives demanded.

Legato did as instructed. Knives took his leg and started to massage the tense muscles.

"Master you don't-"

"Hush. Eat this." Knives tossed a dark chocolate bar into Legato's hands. "You sweated out too much potassium."

Legato went quiet and took a bite. Knives continued to massage Legato's leg. Legato winced subtly at parts but never protested. Knives glanced up at him and then put more pressure on a part he knew hurt. Legato didn't react. Knives felt an odd disappointment roll over him. He went back to being gentle with Legato's leg, pampering him gently.

"Drink." Knives instructed, handing Legato some water.

Legato took it and did so. Afterwards he lowered the bottle and looked at Knives. "...My apologies master."

"You have nothing to apologize for." Knives replied.

"I have everything to apologize for." Legato answered back.

Knives looked at Legato, shame clear on his face. Knives glared and pushed him onto the sleeping bags. Legato gazed up at him, no excitement in his eyes, instead just guilt. Knives growled and leaned down to bit into Legato's neck. Legato tensed but then relaxed, Knives sinking his small fangs into his henchman.

"Stop that, now." Knives pulled back, licking his lips.

"Stop what?" Legato asked.

"You know exactly what! Stop blaming yourself for being human." Knives barked.

"Is it not a sin though? You could be traveling so much faster without me right now. You wouldn't need as many supplies. You wouldn't even be in this desert right now if it wasn't for me." Legato stared into Knives's eyes, weight of his confession sitting heavy on his chest.

Knives grabbed the sides of Legato's head, pulling at his hair. He banged their foreheads together and snarled his words, "I decided to take you. It was my decision. Don't you dare think you're existence is to blame Legato. I need you. I need your companionship and I need your powers. You make this journey a lot easier than it would be alone. We both know eventually I would have to face the truth, I cannot live with Vash. I love him but we will never be compatible. Your job Legato is to stay by my side! To serve me eternally! Never forget that you belong to me! How I keep you, how I treat you! My decisions! Yes you are a human but you are my human and I will use you how I please!"

Legato took a deep breath and held it in, gazing into Knives's face, which was illuminated by his markings. He breathed out slowly, his body relaxing. He looked into Knives's eyes with nothing but adoration, "Yes Master Knives."

Knives scowled and then kissed Legato's forehead, "Dumbass..."

Legato couldn't help but laugh at that.

-x-

"Wolfwood!" Vash practically knocked Nicholas to the ground as he wrapped his arms around him in a tight embrace.

"Gah! Easy Needle Noggin!" Nicholas struggled to regain his balance.

"Did you miss me?" Vash looked at Nicholas with a twinkle in his eyes.

Nicholas gave him an unamused frown before sighing and petting Vash's head, "Yeah Blondie, I miss you. Come here." Nicholas tugged Vash's chin forward and kissed him.

"You two are gonna make me barf." Razlo groaned.

"Oh Razlo is out?" Vash questioned, pulling back from Nicholas.

"Livio got exhausted from crossing the damn desert so I took over." Razlo smirked.

"Oh yeah you guys must be tired." Vash scratched the back of his neck.

"Don't even get me started." Nicholas growled. "You own me so much more than just a maid outfit."

"Can I pay you back in kisses?" Vash fluttered his eyelashes.

Nicholas flicked Vash in the forehead. "Hell no."

Vash hissed and held his forehead, "Awe don't be mean."

Nicholas grabbed Vash by the collar and pulled him in so he could whisper in his ear. "You cannot begin to imagine the dirty things I am going to do to you. Your gonna see why I'm a priest because when I'm done you are going to be praying for mercy."

Vash blushed and began to sweat.

Razlo reached into Nicholas's pocket, stole a cigarette, and lit it. "For the love of god stop flirting. Lets get a move on!"

"Razlo! Livio doesn't smoke!" Nicholas protested.

"Yeah well I need something to distract me from my brain melting out of my ears watching you two." Razlo said, taking a long drag of his cigarette. Vash smiled at Razlo and went over to give him a hug as well. "No! No get off!" Razlo growled.

Vash nuzzled his cheek into Razlo's, "I missed you too!"

"I will bite you!" Razlo threatened.

Nicholas laughed, grabbing the back of Vash's coat and yanking him away. "Come on Blondie, you can give me your affection so you don't lose a finger."

Vash grinned, lacing his fingers with Nicholas's. "Thank you Nico."

Razlo grumbled, marching ahead of the two. "Let's just keep moving!"

Vash laughed and squeezed Nicholas's hand. He loved this, these moments where he had those he loved to close to him again. He briefly thought back to the previous cycle. He married Wolfwood and took his name, Livio was like a second brother to him. They had been so close.

Vash remembered dragging Nai out of hiding and forcing him to interact with his husband and brother-in-law. Nai was so quiet that cycle, he never wanted to do anything but continue his research and flora production. Still, he recalled a few times Nai would crack a smile, just long enough for Vash to see it before he would hide it away again.

It hurt like hell when he realized what Nai had been doing. Vash came to visit him after a few weeks away and his hair was entirely black. It came on so quickly Vash didn't know what to do. Nai just quietly apologized before stepping out to set off his final run. Vash cried into Nicholas's arms for days. When they started this cycle and he regained his memories he refused to let go of Nai. He got separation anxiety and often would sneak into Nai's room at night to sleep next to him, afraid if he let go he would disappear.

He worried what state Nai would be in this time, being away for so long. Vash stopped walking and turned to Nicholas, pulling him into a tight hug.

"Woah, Blondie you okay?" Nicholas asked.

Vash shook his head, face buried in Nicholas's neck.

Nicholas reached up and pet Vash's head gently. "Hey tough guy, it's gonna be okay. We'll get your brother back. You want him at our wedding right?"

Vash nodded.

Wolfwood chuckled, "Then I gonna make that happen. How can I let my blushing bride down?"

"Bride!?" Vash whipped his head up.

Wolfwood stole a kiss, Vash tasting the spice of tobacco on his tongue. "Yeah, my beautiful bride in red."

Vash laughed, pressing his lips to Wolfwood's again. Wolfwood held his waist and let out a soft hum.

"For the love of god you two can make out all you want once we get somewhere to stay!" Razlo screamed from a few yards away.

Wolfwood laughed, breaking the kiss. "Geez Raz, you are such a slave driver!"

"I'm hot, hungry, and want a shower!" Razlo shouted.

Vash took Wolfwood's hand and began running to catch up with Razlo. He pushed his anxiety to the back of his mind, hoping some snuggles in a hotel room would be enough to distract him.

-x-

"How many can you see?" Legato asked.

"Hmm maybe 20. Her gang isn't actually that big I believe its most her providing the fire power." Knives said.

"What do you think motivated her to do this?" Legato asked.

Knives paused, he suddenly realized he never actually knew why Elendira worked with him. He never cared. He didn't care about any reason any of the Gung-ho Guns might have had. He just used them and spent them till they burnt up. If they betrayed him they quickly died at the hands of Legato or Elendira. Elendira was very committed to him and he knew she hated the world how it was. She blamed humans, she liked strong men. He knew she was about as devoted to him as Legato was but had no idea why.

Legato laid down his head in his arms to smile up at Knives.

"Oh shut up." Knives growled.

Legato chuckled, "But it's cute. You seem to have changed so much from your first cycle."

"I haven't. You don't remember what I was like." Knives hissed.

Legato reached over and brushed Knives's cheek. "You told me the stories though. The old you would have never let his Legato touch his cheek. He never would have told him he was 'his human'. Told him he had value to him."

Knives looked away. "You still going on about that?"

"Knives I'm going to hold that in my heart for all eternity. Never has anyone said anything so beautiful to me." Legato purred.

"I thought you would have hated being owned by someone..." Knives whispered.

"Its different with you. I choose to be yours everyday. You gave me my reason to live back. So I want to be yours mind, body and soul. To hear you see me that way, my heart could just about burst." Legato smiled so gently at Knives.

Knives looked down, familiar guilt rising up, though he wasn't entirely sure why this time. Legato pulled himself up to hug Knives, his lips feathering against his ear. "Master, you never in the past would have looked so sad to hear me tell you my devotion. You have changed."

Knives held Legato in place, resting his chin on Legato's shoulder. Perhaps he had changed a little. He looked at the bite mark he had left earlier that morning. A small smirk came to his lips and he leaned in to kiss it. Legato shuttered against him. "Alright Legato, let's get rid of the easy one's first. Elendira is going to be a nightmare though."

Legato leaned away and stood, reaching his hands out. His threads traveled across the sands and attached to each of Elendira's goons. With sudden force he snatched their will from them. Causing them to drop their weapons and kneel.

Knives, barely had enough time to push Legato out of the way as a massive crimson nail rained down from the sky, hitting directly where Legato had once stood. Elendira stood on top of a building looking down at them with a sharp scowl on her face. Knives made eye contact with her and they stood in silence for a moment. Then Elendira smirked.

"I like your eyes. There is something fierce in them." Elendira called out. She pointed her crossbow to the sky and it began to rain red.

Chapter 16

Notes:

Putting this one up a little early because I am not going to be able to later today.

Nails hammered down on Knives and Legato, a hail of metal piercing the heavens. Knives ran as quickly as he could to Legato's side, his wings staying above them to shield the two.

"Can you get her!?" Knives shouted.

"I'm trying! She is very fast!" Legato said, arms stretched out.

Elendira bobbed and weaved before jumping off the building and rushing them. "You two are quite the couple. I have no idea what you did to my men but I do not appreciate it." Knives smacked at her with his wing, Elendira skidding backwards.

"Legato!" Knives turned back to him.

"There!" Legato's threads just barely attached before two nails slammed through his shoulder and leg. He was sent through the air and landed a few yards away to Knives's horror.

"Lega-" Knives's shout was cut short as a nail ripped through his side. He fell to his knees, pain sapping his strength. His vision blurred as pain raced through his veins.

"Tsk. Well this was a let down." Elendira waltzed over to look Knives's in the face. "I thought you two would have a bit more fight in you considering you took down all my men in one move. But there is a softness to you. I hate that in men. Nice men always die." Elendira gripped Knives's chin, lifting his face and staring him in the eyes. "What a shame, you look like you might have once had potential."

Knives was paralyzed, he never handled pain very well. His whole body throbbed as his blood soaked his coat. He choked, unable to think through it.

"Ah well, goodnight boys." Elendira put her crossbow under Knives's chin, ready to fire. Knives's gritted his teeth, squeezing his eyes shut while waiting for pain. But it didn't come. He opened one eye and saw Elendira was frozen.

"M-master." Legato whimpered out few yards away.

Knives gasps and seized the opportunity. He leapt up and slashed Elendira in half with his blades before collapsing forward into the sand.

"Elendira, I promise I'll be kinder to you in your... next cycle." Knives panted out, holding his side wound.

Elendira let out a low shocked groan before falling into the sand dead. Knives pulled himself up and looked back at her. He didn't want to kill her, but he wasn't Vash. He took the logical route in a fight he was losing. He turned to where Legato had fallen and struggled his way over.

Legato laid in the sand, gasping and pinned down by the nail in his shoulder. As Knives got closer he realized to his horror that Legato's leg had not just been hit, it had been shot clean off at the knee. Knives grabbed part of his shirt and cut it with one of his blades, using it quickly to tourniquet the remaining leg.

"Its going to be okay Legato! We'll get you help." Knives reassured him, though his voice was shaking.

Legato gently grabbed Knives's hand, the one with a blade still attached to it. "Master..." Legato's voice sounded so soft and pained. Knives watched as Legato gently lifted his hand to his throat and pressed the blades to his neck. "Kill me."

Knives felt like all the blood in his body had just been turned to ice. "W-what?"

"Kill me Master. There is no point in keeping me alive anymore. I'm no longer of any use." Legato smiled through pain.

"What are you talking about!?" Knives's eyes began to fill with tears.

Legato turn his head just enough to look him in the eyes. "Master... look at me. I'm only going to keep slowing you down."

"Bullshit! I kept you around when you literally couldn't move!" Knives barked.

Legato closed his eyes and shook his head ever so slightly, his breathing becoming labored. "Back then we had time. You just kept me at base, we weren't on the run. Now, we need to move. Vash is getting closer every moment. With one leg I'll only slow you down. Also, we can't ignore how I just keep aging. I'm almost 40. I'm nothing more than an anchor Master. Throw me away and just get a new Legato in a few years."

Knives shook his head, disbelief on his face. "Legato if I kill you, you already know where your next cycle begins."

Legato coughed and chuckled, "I'm aware. I've gone through it before though. Nothing I can't handle. I would walk through hell for you master. Come find me in twelve years or so I promise this time I won't fail you so miserably." Legato press the blades harder to his neck, blood dripping down the edge. "I welcome this death Master. Nothing would please me more than to die by your hands."

Knives trembled, staring down at his closest friend begging for death, frozen in place.

Legato looked back up at Knives, eyes starting to cloud over. "I understand if I'm not worthy of it. I know you said I'm yours, but in the end, I failed you so horribly. I'm just another human Master, you shouldn't trouble yourself over what will happen to me. Just cut the dead weight. If you like, I'll do it myself."

Legato started to press the blade deeper, more blood trailing down and staining his coat. A small whimper escaped his throat. Knives stiffened, fear caging his heart.

He thought back to every hour on the road, every night Legato laid next to him, the one sided meals, planting flora together, Legato reaching up and biting into an apple from a tree they had planted years ago. He remembered soothing his nightmares. He remembered Legato comforting him when he was lonely. He remembered gazing up at the stars together through swarms of worms. The look on his face when he told him he was free for the first time. Legato screaming on the railing of the sand steamer. He remembered their first kiss, holding hands, and every moment of joy Legato had brought him.

He remembered falling in love and refusing to admit it.

Knives ripped his blades away from Legato and wrapped his arms around him. "NO!" He buried his face in Legato's good shoulder, his blood smearing his cheek. "Stop it!"

"Master-"

"No! I can't! I can't kill you." Knives cried, blood from both their wounds mixed together and stained both of them red.

"Its alright. It's just a quick slice to the throat and it will be over." Legato reached up and pet his head gently.

"I love you damn it!" Knives confessed.

Legato froze, wide eyed and shocked.

Knives sat up and cupped his cheek with a bloody hand. "I love you. I love you so much Legato I can't imagine going on without you. I need you. I want you in my life. I love you!"

Legato stared up blinking at Knives, not fully comprehending what he was hearing. Knives leaned down and passionately kissed him. His tears splashed Legato's cheeks.

"Every time I kissed you, I lied to myself. I told myself you owed me affection or I was doing it for you. I just didn't want to admit how I felt. I'm just a stubborn ass though. I love you Legato, I've loved you for years." Knives whispered to his most precious follower. "So don't be so eager to leave my side. Your life has value."

"Master..." Legato gasped, still wrapped in disbelief.

"Just Knives is fine Legato. We don't have to be so formal with each other. Lovers rarely are." Knives brushed Legato's cheek with his thumb.

Legato was silent, still looking like he was in a dream, waiting to wake up.

Knives laughed, "You should see your face. You look..." Knives slumped over, suddenly becoming lightheaded.

"Knives!" Legato shouted.

Knives vision blurred, he had lost far too much blood and the pain was becoming too much. The last thing he saw was a man in a red coat, coming toward him in the distance as he blacked out.

Chapter 17

Knives slowly woke up to the sound of high pitched ringing in his ear. He groaned, rolling onto his side only to quickly be reminded he was wounded. He sat up sharply and held his side, hissing.

"You still have the most pathetic pain tolerance huh?"

Knives snapped his head to the side, his brother sitting in a chair backwards so he could rest his arms and chin on the backrest. Knives immediately jumped up and ran towards the door only for Vash to grab him up in his arms.

"Nai you idiot you're gonna reopen you wounds!" Vash struggled with his brother.

"Let go of me!" Knives flailed.

"Nai! Get back in that bed this instant!" Marnie said shoving her head in the room.

"Marnie I need to leave NOW!" Knives roared, blades coming out and threatening both Vash and her.

"Oh so you're just going to leave Legato here huh?" She said unimpressed.

Knives paused, his blades falling to his sides. "Legato. Where is Legato!?"

"Shhhh he is resting!" Marnie hissed, pointing at a bed Knives had failed to notice in his rushed escape attempt.

Legato was in the bed, unconscious and sweating violently. His remaining leg was elevated while an IV steadily pumped new blood into him. Knives wiggled free of Vash and went to his side.

"Is... is he okay?" Knives voice sounded dry and painful.

"He is in shock." Nicholas said, lighting a cigarette. Knives realized now that both he and Livio were in the room too. "He's going through it but the doc thinks he'll live."

"Young man! No smoking in the medical rooms! Legato needs fresh air right now to recover!" Marnie scolded.

Nicholas grumbled and grinded the cig out on one of the mental bed frames.

Knives knelt at Legato's side and gently took one of his hands. Legato's face was flushed, hair stuck to him. Knives looked around and found a rag to wipe his forehead.

"I'm so sorry Legato." Knives whispered to him. "Please, please pull through."

"He will be okay Nai, the best thing you can do for him is get some rest yourself. You have a massive hole in you side." Marnie smiled, gently pushing him toward the bed. "I think even angels need rest."

Knives sat back on the bed and looked at her somberly. "You are taking this well..."

"You've always been a friend to us and you saved my town from a mad woman. I don't care if you have three heads and a tail, you're a good boy." Marnie put her hands on her hips. "Now, I'm going to let you all talk but if hear any shouting or rough housing I'm going to give you all such a wallop!"

She closed the door and Vash sat back down across from Knives. Knives glanced at him, head lowered.

"Its been a really long time." Vash smiled gently.

"Why did you want to find me? I'm just going to keep hurting you. I literally just killed again." Knives turned away.

He felt a piece of paper brush against his arm. Knives looked down and saw his bounty.

"Pacifist. Millions Knives... a pacifist." Vash stated. "I had to come and see that for myself."

Knives let out a half-hearted laugh. "Yeah well... its a lie now."

"Is it? Am I no longer a pacifist because I killed Legato?" Vash asked.

"Wait what?" Nicholas looked at Vash and then at Legato in the bed.

"...Vash you didn't explain cycles to them!?" Knives hissed.

"Shhh, no not yet!" Vash said.

Knives slapped a hand over his face, "Vash! You're just going to let you husband of 70 plus year be in the dark!?"

"I'm his WHAT!?" Nicholas shouted.

"Hey!" Marnie snapped her head back in.

"Sorry ma'am." The room apologized in unison.

She glared at all of them and then closed the door again.

"Blondie the hell is he talking about!?" Nicholas hissed. "How have we been married for 70 years!? I'm only 30!"

Vash gave a nervous laugh, "Well um, you see it's kind a long story but it's actually a short one."

"Sit down, you might not believe this." Knives pointed to a few chairs.

One painful explanation later and Nicholas had opened a window so he could stick his head out and smoke.

"And we had super powers!?" Livio was eating this up.

"Well yes, for two of your life times. The ones after you started to settle more into just being priests or undertakers." Vash explained.

"You had us go... after a genocidal maniac." Nicholas lit a second cigarette.

"In his defense I had not actively made an effort to kill in over 50 years... 100 if you count the years I spent dead." Knives pointed out.

Nicholas glared back into the room at Knives. "It really does not help!"

Knives gave a small smirk, "That's understandable. It's part of why I have been running for so long. I'm always going to be a monster."

"No you're not!" Vash protested.

Knives looked at his brother. "Really? You just saw I murdered Elendira. One of my closest friends, dead by my blades."

"...You just called her a friend. That's more than enough evidence." Vash grinned.

Knives paused but then looked over at Legato, "Vash we can't be together. No matter how hard I try I can't be like you. I try so hard to be peaceful, to help humans, but I fall short. I took the easy way out."

Vash got up and sat next to his brother, wrapping his arms around him. Knives stayed still, he missed the feeling of these arms so much. He craved his brother's touch so much it made his chest ache. Vash turned his head and pressed his forehead to Knives's, markings springing to life. Tears ran down Knives's cheeks, the warm nostalgic feeling of connecting with Vash soothed his lonely soul.

"I... I fall short too. Because no matter how much I want everyone to be safe, to be okay, sometimes that can't happen. You are in love with the man who forced me to face that. I'm in love with the man who taught me the way. Even Rem says she understands what you did and why you did it. I can't expect you to maintain something even I can't." Vash nuzzled his face again Knives's.

Knives let his markings spread through his whole body, Vash mimicking him. He pulled Vash into a tight hug and they both winced.

"Nai please, we are connected right now I can feel your side wound." Vash hissed.

"Sorry. You said Rem understood?" Knives asked.

Vash sat back, going to hold Knives's hands to maintain their connection. "Yup. Said it before I left to go get you."

Knives went quiet, deep in thought.

"...Hey Knives?" Livio spoke up.

Knives looked up at him.

"So... god this is hard to talk about. When... when we were young Razlo used to... well he used to hurt things. He would beat kids up and he ended up killing a puppy the orphanage had adopted. It haunted me for years and we even ran away from home. But Nico came after us. He hunted us down and brought us home. It was difficult and we had a lot of things to work through but in the end it turned out. People forgave us for what we had done. I know that your family loves you. They can forgive you too." Livio explained, a small glimmer behind his left eye.

Knives stayed quiet, still unsure.

Nicholas walked up next to Knives and gave him a swift punch to the back of the head.

"Ow!" Vash and Knives said in unison.

"Listen, your brother is worried sick about you and forgives you! Stop being an ass an come home!" Nicholas barked. "I currently am still processing that apparently I've lived multiple lives with this idiot I don't have time to deal with your melodramatic ass!"

Vash chuckled, "He's right. I worry constantly about you."

"I- I don't know." Knives whispered. "How can I just go back? After everything."

Vash lowered his eyes, still holding Knives's hand. The two could feel their melancholy through their bond. They felt so different and yet so similar.

"Its easy to stew in self hatred for what you have done. But it's time to let go." Vash whispered.

Nai remained quiet, reflecting on what Vash said.

The air was broke by a weak voice. "...Knives."

Knives looked over at Legato's bed. Legato had forced himself to sit up, giving him a weak smiled. Knives stood, rushing to his love.

"Legato!" Knives knelt, "Legato you need to rest lay down."

"Knives, I want... I want to go home with you." Legato's eyes pricked with tears.

Legato laid back down, his strength gone. Knives laid his head down next to Legato's.

"So... no Squinny Coffin?" Knives asked.

Legato gave a weak chuckle, "Some other time Knives."

"...Call me Nai." Nai said.

"Nai if you keep switching names I'll be tempted to just call you darling." Legato smirked.

Nai laughed, "I wouldn't mind that." He leaned up to give Legato a kiss. Legato reached up slowly to pet Nai's cheek and he opened his lips slightly, just enough to invite Nai in.

Vash sniffled and grabbed for Wolfwood's hand. Nico sat next to him instead and slung an arm over Vash, putting his weight on him.

Nai pulled back and smiled at Legato, taking one of his hands in his. "When you recover, we will go.

Chapter 18

"Is it done!? Is it done!?" Elendira, only about 5 now, bounced up and down next to Nai as he wove a flower crown for her in the garden.

"Almost, be patient." Nai said, weaving a few more geraniums together.

Elendira whined and slumped over, "Come onnnnn."

Legato chuckled, adjusting his prosthetic as he sat down next to Nai. "Don't rush your father Elendira."

"I'm not her father." Nai snapped.

"Yeah you are Nainai." Elendira giggled.

Nai rolled his eyes and put the flower crown on Elendira's head, "There, all done."

Elendira grinned ear to ear and began to spin around. "Nainai you and Legato should have a crown too!"

Nai waved a hand, "No no, we wouldn't look as cute."

"I think you would." Elendira danced off to go play and explore the flora.

Nai sighed and leaned back into Legato. He looked up at him, his blue hair dusted now with silver fluttered in the wind. Legato looked back down at him and gave an understanding smirk. Fatherhood was difficult for both of them but struggling together made it easier.

"There you guys are." Vash closed the roof door behind him. "You guys are missing the party."

Nai waved lazily, "I needed a break from people."

Vash rolled his eyes and sat across from them on the edge of a flower bed. "Come on Rem is retiring! We're getting promoted to project leaders!"

"As the only two independent Plants on this planet why weren't we always project leaders?" Nai grumbled.

"Nainai is being grouchy." Elendira giggled, running over to Vash.

"Elly!" Vash picked Elendira up and span around with her. "Don't you want to go to the party?"

"Yes but Nainai needs a break so I can wait so long as there is still cake when we get back." Elendira stated in a matter of fact way.

"You are way too formal for a kid your age." Vash groaned.

Legato had subtly perked up at the mention of cake and Nai was trying to hold in a laugh. "Legato, how about you go get cake with Elendira?"

"Are you sure?" Legato asked.

"Yeah, let me have a moment with Vash." Nai put his arms over the back of the bench.

"As you wish." Legato kissed Nai's cheek.

Legato took Elendira from Vash and headed downstairs.

"You guys really make a cute family." Vash settled into his seat, letting himself relax.

The side of Nai's mouth twitched, "Not as cute as you and all your family members."

"Their your family too." Vash stated.

Nai closed his eyes, "...Maybe."

Vash chuckled, "You know, I've been meaning to tell you that I'm really happy for you. You seem to be in a much healthier place now."

"Healthier?" Nai asked.

"You have people you care about besides me." Vash grinned.

Nai sat up and looked at Vash. It was true he would give anything for Elendira and Legato now. Both had become so precious to him. Trashe's Wall had become special to them too, along with so many other settlements. Humanity, though still venomous, now held a charm to it. Nai had barley noticed how they had crept into his good standings. He even had forgiven Rem for her "poisoning" of Vash from the first cycle.

"...I think we can thank Legato for that." Nai said mostly to himself.

"How are you two doing?" Vash asked.

"Same as always. He never leaves my side." Nai replied.

"Are you going to propose?" Vash asked, eyes sparkling.

"We eloped." Nai replied.

Vash's heart broke, "You eloped!? When did you eplope!?"

"Few years ago. I didn't want a wedding and I needed to remind Legato who he belonged too." Nai explained.

"What!? He never forgets who he belongs too. He is glued to your hip!" Vash protested, running his hands through his hair in frustration.

Nai quietly thought of the day Legato held his blade to his neck. His face so calm as he asked to die. When they had gotten home and Legato recovered enough Nai had taken him to a court house and married him. It was even before Nicholas's and Vash's wedding. He needed to make sure Legato never forgot he was valued again.

Vash grumbled and crossed his arms, "You didn't even invite me. I can't believe this. You obsess over me for centuries and then don't even invite me to the most important day of your life."

"Because it wasn't." Nai stated.

Vash gasped in shock. "How can you say that!? He is your soulmate!"

"Exactly! Some stupid human tradition means nothing compared to the bond I have with him. I don't need some silly ritual to tell me he belongs to me. I know he is mine. He will always be one of the most important creatures in my life. Yes I did it to bind us together but it is just one moment of thousands that cement Legato as my right hand. No single day is the most important with him, they all are." Nai said.

Vash sniffled, "Nai that's kinda beautiful."

Nai blushed and looked away only to see Legato standing nearby with an extra plate of cake for Vash. Nai's entire face turned bright red and he looked away from Legato. The damage was done though and Legato thrust the plate into Vash's hands before lunging at Nai. He clashed their mouths together and ran his hand through Nai's hair. Nai growled into the kiss and his blades came out, dancing around in warning but as Legato's lips pressed deeper into his, he relaxed. His blades wrapped around his husband in a dangerous hug.

Vash took his cake and with a knowing smirk he got up and left the roof.

Legato separated from Nai and gazed lovingly into his eyes, "Darling."

Nai chuckled and reached up to pet Legato's cheek, "Shush."

Legato leaned in to kiss Nai again, pressing their bodies together. Nai put a hand on Legato's waist to steady him. The wind picking up and the garden shuttered, a few leaves and petals gliding around them as Nai let his lover take all the affection he desired.

"I love you Nai." Legato breathed out.

Nai chuckled. "I love you too."

It was moments like this Nai wished Legato was an independent, they could touch and Nai could fill him with his thoughts and feelings. Yet, despite the inability to properly connect, Legato found a way to fill the gap. Nai leaned in and pressed his forehead to Legato's, his hand going for a lock of Legato's hair. Legato shuttered slightly, no matter how long they had been together, every touch was like the first one to him.

"You know, I think everyone would like to hear you play the piano at the party." Legato whispered.

Nai paused, before playing a little more with Legato's hair. "I think I would rather celebrate in private with you. For just a little longer."

Legato's cheeks flushed. His eyes drifted to half closed, "Anything you desire my love."

Nai looked out over his garden, Legato resting in his arms. The flora shimmered and looked beautiful in the sun. He had worked for so long on his atonement, yet this place had turned into something more. Nai rubbed the small of Legato's back, lost in thought. Legato brought him back with a kiss on the nose. Nai blinked and then chuckled, giving his love another kiss, tasting a little frosting on his tongue from the cake.

"I think I'm ready now." Nai said.

"Are you sure?" Legato asked.

Nai nodded, "Yeah... so long as you stay with me."

"I could never dream of being anywhere else." Legato stood, offering Nai a hand.

Nai took it and together, they headed downstairs.

Chapter 19: Epilogue

Legato lived to be 75 years old before dying in his sleep.

It took Nai 4 years to find him again.

The tiny blue hair child sat in the back seat of his truck, quietly eating the ice cream he had bought him. He had saved him from the worst of it, he was being auctioned off in a secret human trafficking ring. He was labeled as new on the market. His parents had sold him for the cash, apparently desperately in need. $$300 was Legato's worth. Nai had to stop himself from slaughtering everyone just for pricing him so low.

"It is so odd seeing him like this." Elendira said, peaking over from the passenger seat. Legato glanced up at her, curiosity blooming in his eyes right next to fear.

"Well of course, he raised you." Nai replied.

Legato licked his fingers, having finished his ice cream. He was an incredibly quiet child and had signs of abuse and neglect. But for the most part, he was okay.

"Legato." Nai said quietly. Legato took a moment to realize Nai was talking to him. Nai smiled at him through the rear view mirror. Legato stared back, an unease to him. He didn't know where Nai and Elendira were taking him. He didn't understand why they had so violently destroyed the place he was being sold at. He didn't understand the kindness they offered or what he had done to deserve sweets. Nai could see it all in his eyes, the slow realization that people could be more than parasites.

"We're almost there Legato. You are going to like this place." Nai turned and headed toward Hopeland Orphanage.

"You sure you are going to be okay with leaving him? You could raise him like you did me." Elendira suggested.

"That would be too awkward for me. I would never be able to look at him the same way. I couldn't raise him like you." Nai explained.

Elendira sighed, "...It breaks my heart a little that you have to be separated for so long."

Nai shrugged, "This is good for him. He will grow up in a healthy environment." Legato was struggling to stay awake, the rocking of the car and the sugar in his belly beckoning him to dream. When he passed out Nai took a deep breath. "Elendira... I don't think I'm going to be in his life this time."

"What!?" Elendira tried to keep her voice down.

Nai gave a gentle smile to the review mirror. "He won't remember this very clearly. I have no weight in his life. This is not the man who fell in love with me. He has no reason to love me. He should be free to be whatever he wants."

Elendira stared at Nai in disbelief. "But you love him."

"Exactly... I love him." Nai turned his eyes back to the road.

The stopped the car and Nai went to the back, gently scooping Legato into his arms. Legato blinked awake and looked up bewildered at Nai until he remembered what had happened to him. He went still, letting whatever was about to happen to him happen.

"Don't worry Legato, you're safe, I promise." Nai reassured him.

They went to the front desk and Nai explained the situation. Legato was registered and one of the women who worked there took his hand.

"Wait, can I say goodbye?" Nai asked. She nodded and paused for Nai. Nai knelt down and gently pet Legato's head. "This is it Legato. You are going to have the life you always deserved. You'll make friends, find a family, you don't have to worry about anyone hurting you ever again. You get to be happy. You're free."

Legato tucked his head down, taking in Nai's words. Nai's fake smile faded slightly into a more genuine look. He would check up on him now and then, watch from afar. Make sure he was safe. When he died he would find him again. This was how he showed his love, his devotion, his atonement.

"Goodbye Legato Bluesummers." Nai turned and headed out the door, Elendira behind him.

Once they got outside Nai stopped and looked up at the sky. His chest ached, but Legato was free. No longer bound to serve an evil master. He was free to choose whatever life he wanted, to live the way he was supposed to.

"...Nai." Elendira reached for him and Nai moved away from her touch.

"Let's head to home." Nai headed toward the truck when they heard a small yell.

"Wait!" Legato was running after them as fast as his tiny legs could carry him, tears running down his face. He grabbed Nai's coat, pulling it close and burying his face in it. Nai could hear him sobbing into it before his voice managed to squeak out, "Don't leave me."

Nai blinked down at him, Legato's entire frame was shuddering from his crying. His grip was so tight and Nai felt the familiar pull of his telekinesis. He was too weak in this state to even try and stop him, but still his wires tugged and pleaded. The small, fragile, string of fate that tied the two together. In an instant everything was clear and Nai felt like a fool.

Nai smiled and knelt back down, petting Legato's head. "I have to go right now but I promise, I'll be back one day."

Legato sniffled, his eyes puffy from crying. "P-promise?"

"I promise. After all, I'm your guardian angel." Nai smirked.

Notes:

Thanks for reading~