Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

As one of his break days came, Bardon found himself still waking up early, a habit of his he couldn’t get rid of, even when he knew he had nothing to do, he was too energetic to stay in bed all morning, always in need for some movement, and what could be better than mimicking one of his favorite heroes?

“Once thought I could protect the world by myself. But I was wrong. Working together, we saved the planet. And I believe that if we stay together, as a team, we would be a force that could truly work for the ideals of peace and justice!”

Said Bardon with all the enthusiasm he got while looking into the mirror, repeating the quote of Superman from justice league, somehow, he felt his mood becoming much better just by seeing himself getting the stunt right.

And it was at that exact moment that his caller was vibrating, he blinked twice, before rushing toward it to pick it up.

“Hello?”

“Hey Bardon, it's me, David!”

“Oh If that's not David! How are you, buddy?”

“Actually…I am not really good, I kinda need your help with something, this is why I called you…”

“Oh, I see! What is it that you need help with?”

“It's a mission man, I was assigned to protect a couple of researchers from the Miramons coming to their lab, and being the newbie I am, I got stuck in here…I know it's your day off but would you please come here and help me?? I will never forget this favor!”

“Of course! You don’t even have to ask my friend! I am coming to the rescue!”

And just like that, Bardon wore his clothes and took off to where David was waiting, he found him stuck in an unfavorable situation, jumping right in the middle and catching the young man’s attention who couldn’t help but smile brightly upon seeing him.

“Bardon! I am so happy to see you, man!”

He turned to him with a radiating smile.

“And I am glad I came right on time for you!”

Suddenly, their interaction was interrupted by a couple of Miramons coming into the lab, being the experienced man he is, Bardon turned around first to let the researchers know they should take the back door and stay away until they are finished, once made sure they were out, he turned around once again, rolling his shoulders and cracking his neck.

“Alright, time for action!”

And just like that, he jumped on a bunch of them, using his artificial arm and shield to strike them with one blow, fighting them the more they came in with all his might, he then turned around to David to check on him, only for the other to gave him a reassuring smile and a thumbs up.

“Worry not I got it here!”

Bardon’s concerned facial expression turned into a reassured one, he smiled confidently.

“I’ll let you handle it then!”

******

Some time passed by as they fought the monsters, clearing the lab of them and getting the researchers back safely, when they got out of there, David lets his clenched hands up in the air laughing in joy.

“Yessss! The mission is done!”

Bardon couldn’t help but laugh at such a reaction.

“Ahahaha Congrats! You will be promoted in no time!”

That's when David rubbed the back of his head smiling gratefully at Bardon.

“It was all thanks to you bud, I will never forget what you have done for me!”

“Don’t mention it, what are friends for?”

He patted his shoulder gently smiling, before waving at him, and taking his leave, thinking on his way about the next movie he should be watching home.

Should I go for mission impossible? Or the tomorrow war? I mean I have always loved Tom Cruise that guy is epic!

And just like that, his train of thought was interrupted by an old lady grabbing his attention by shouting from afar.

“Help!”

He widened his eyes upon seeing her desperate like that, rushing toward her direction.

“What is it, granny? Is someone trying to hurt you?”

“Actually…no, I am just concerned for Bobby!”

“Bobby?”

He lifted one brow in confusion, tilting his head to the side, before the lady pointed at the tree next to them, only for him to realize she was talking about her little dog who got stuck there, he scratched his cheek, before nodding to her.

“You know what? Leave it to me!”

After the little rescuing mission was over with success now that he handed her the dog, Bardon waved back to the lady before going, thinking of how wholesome was the lady’s reaction after carrying her cute little pup, and on his way, he found a little building on fire and a couple of people trying to extinguish the flames, among them was a woman crying her heart out, frowning deeply at the scene, he couldn’t help but approach her.

“Ma’am, Is there something I can do for you??”

Suddenly, she clenched his shoulders.

“Please! Help my husband and my kids get out of there!!!”

After being a little taken aback by her reaction, he then nodded instantly and affirmatively, dashing from his position to the burning house as If his life depended on it, the heat was too much for anyone to breathe properly but he endured it, covering his nose with his arm and searching every single room, until he found the whole family lying down on the floor unconscious, he lets out a gasp before rushing to them, trying to support the half-conscious father’s weight on his shoulder and to lift the kids on his back, it was was a lot for him to handle but he didn’t want to give up, and so, he managed to let everyone out, seeing how the crying woman rushed to her family.

“Don’t worry, they are still alive! They are just unconscious.”

“Thank you so much! Words aren’t enough to express my gratitude!!!”

“Please don’t mention it it's my duty!”

Bardon smile warmly at her, before taking his leave again, family was sure a precious thing, that's what he thought to himself while walking away until he found another crowd ahead of him, he blinked twice in confusion before suddenly hearing a shout, deciding to make his way through the sea of people, he found a young man standing on the edge of the bridge he crossed, it took him a moment to realize that he was trying to take his life, feeling so frightened, he approached him slowly.

“Hey please think about it! Your life is way too precious to be wasted for whatever reason!”

He couldn’t get any response from him, just someone from the crowd turning to him.

“It's futile, the guy is so determined to die.”

“But…why?”

“It is said that he lost his only brother in a car crash, and he doesn’t have anyone now with him.”

“What? no way!!!”

He felt his heart clenching after hearing his story, and a sudden determination within him to save this man no matter what, and just when he was about to open his mouth again, the young man threw himself off of the edge, making Bardon shout his lungs out among the screams of others, and without any further hesitation, he rushed to the edge, throwing himself off of it just to reach him, he was a little far from him, but Bardon used his special esper power just to reach him, and so he did it, wrapping his arms around the young man, and falling to the ground on his robotic arm to lessen the impact, after some seconds, he opened his shut eyes slowly, turning his head immediately to the boy with a troubled facial expression.

“Hey! Are you alright?”

He didn’t find any response from him, thinking that something wrong might have happened to him, he approached his face slowly to check on him, only to get a sudden punch from him that sent him away, causing his nose to bleed a little, Bardon, who didn’t get what happened, lifted his head up to meet the boy’s gaze, an angry one that was yet deprived of any hope.

“Why..”

“Huh?”

“Why did you save me, bastard!!! I was finally able to die and see my brother again!! But thanks to you I still have to submit to my miserable existence!!”

Widening his eyes, Bardon shook his head slowly as he didn’t absorb what he just heard, words failed him, it wasn’t until people came rushing to the boy, cheering happily that he was still alive and surrounding him, leaving Bardon behind who was just sitting there, looking to the ground with a confused expression, until he found a hand extended to him, one of an old man who wanted to lift him up, smiling.

“Don’t take his words seriously, you still saved a life.”

Even though he appreciated these kind words coming from a total stranger, Bardon felt something strange inside of him, one he couldn’t really decipher, still, he smiled slightly at the man, taking his hand to stand up, before looking at the boy’s direction.

“Yeah…”

At least, he is still alive...

*******

And now that the busy odd day of Bardon was over, he headed back to his apartment, still having that strange unpleasant feeling, despite saving many lives today, something that made him usually happy, but decided to just brush it aside and probably take a shower and sleep, and just when he opened the door to his apartment, he was taken aback by a couple of fireworks cracking that he let out a little yelp.

“Surpriiiiise!”

It was then that he realized it was actually his friends who prepared him for a surprise birthday party! Looking astonished, he then smiled widely.

“Guys…you remembered my birthday!!!”

“Haha of course we did!” said Mona who was holding the birthday hat before setting it on his head with a grin.

“Man you sure grew up didn’t you?”

“Makes me wonder, how old are you now?”

Wondered both David and Lucas respectively, before being interrupted by Chalmer, who somehow got dragged off of his research by them.

“Alright, guys how about we let him in first? The guy seemed to be having a hard day.”

“Ahaha yeah you can say that…and I am 26 by the way.”

“He is still as young as ever!” exclaimed David while eating a cupcake.

“It's not like there is anything wrong with growing up, we just become…more mature.”

Everyone nodded to his words, thinking of them as wise ones, while Bardon was still wondering what had gotten into him inside before his chain of thought was interrupted by Lucas.

“Alright guess what? I got you a nice movie!!”

“Really? What's that?”

“It's a western one called hell or high water! The reviews are so positive! What do you say we give it a try?”

“Hey, I think I have seen that already, isn’t it about that man who lost his-”

“Shhhh no spoilers!!!” said Lucas interrupting David with a frown, who put his hand on his mouth, making Bardon laugh at the scene before replying.

“Alright then!”

******

After stuffing their stomachs and tidying the apartment, everyone sits down on both the sofa and the rug, with a bowl of popcorn on the little table in front of them, and the movie starts.

“Alright, here we go!”

The silence filled the room, with everyone focusing on the movie, feeling already the thrill as they progressed, Bardon thought it was actually a good idea for him to distract himself, however, he realized it was actually the opposite, seeing how the two protagonists were actually close brothers who tried to survive together, protecting each other, even though it reminded him more of his situation, Bardon couldn’t help but find himself the more hooked up, it wasn’t until one of them was shot dead, that everyone was shocked.

“No way!!!” said Lucas dumbfounded.

“Poor little thing…” added David with a sad sigh

“Honestly, I saw that coming,” replied Chalmer who didn’t seem very affected despite being a little surprised.

“Still… it's so sad…” said Mona with teary eyes.

The only one who kept silent was nonother than Bardon, who despite being the loud reactive person he is, kept looking with his eyes wide open, not saying anything, until the movie was finished and one of them turned around to him.

“Hey man, you okay? You have been silent the whole movie, it's unlike you!” said Lucas lifting a brow, at first he didn’t get a reaction, making him look at everyone in concern and receiving the same look from them, who thought they might have reminded him of what happened to Hall, again, Lucas patted Bardon’s shoulder, who, after being somehow absentminded, blinked twice and became aware of his environment, looking at Lucas, smiling instantly.

“Oh it was a nice movie wasn’t it!!”

“Are you saying this out of being nice oooor…you really mean it?”

“What? Of course, I mean it! Why would I lie about it? It's my favorite genre ahaha!”

He said with a huge smile, before cracking a little laugh, making everyone sigh in relief as they thought they were overthinking it, it wasn’t until Mona suggested another movie, that everyone got along with it after making sure Bardon accepted, even when he wasn’t going to watch with them.

“Hey, why don’t you watch this on your own? I gotta take a quick shower, I feel so stinky!”

They nodded to him, before starting to watch together after Chalmer was gone to his place,

Leaving them behind and going to the bathroom, Bardon got inside the shower, thinking about what happened to him today, from the lady with the little dog and the woman’s family to the suicidal man who lost his brother, not to mention the movie he just watched with his friends, upon realizing that he was starting to feel heavy, he shook the feeling off, smiling a little to himself.

Everything is alright as long as everyone is safe and sound!

As he got out of the bathroom, Bardon found everyone asleep with the movie still on, surprised at first, he didn’t want to wake anyone up, so he brought every single sheet and pillow he had in there, making sure they were comfortable enough, before lying down on his bed, closing his eyes and trying to evoke sleep, only for him to have all the scenes of the two brothers playing in the back of his head, he then opened his eyes, staring at the ceiling for a very long time, before sleepiness took him over.

Oh, you love dogs this much? Alright, then let's take this puppy with us!

You are my one and only family, never forget that!

I don’t even know what will happen to me if I lose you, little brother!

Imagine if we were in one of these epic movies! But this time we are no longer the good guys, we are the bad ones who are trying to survive! Where we break into some kind of a bank and then run for our lives! But hey we help others with that money, just so that we don’t feel that guilty...Hall? Hall, where are you? Where did you go?

Hall no!!! Please get back here!

Oh no!! you are drowning!! I will save you!

I can’t…breath…Hall…

“Hall!!!!”

Suddenly, he woke up, letting out a loud gasp as If he was running out of breath, his heart beating as if he was running a thousand miles, he looked at the palm of his sweaty hands, only to realize it was just…a nightmare.

Letting out a long tired sigh, Bardon felt something heavy on his chest, and again, it was that strange bad feeling he kept having, but this time, it was too intense for him to ignore, he turned his head around the apartment, realizing that all of his friends left, and just like that, an idea came to mind.

What am I even thinking?

But the idea was too tempting for him to brush aside until he found himself remembering how that guy lost his brother, not getting a chance to even say goodbye, and it was at that instant that he stood up from his place, frowning in determination, and wearing his outfit, alongside a cape he kept there for missions that required a disguise. he was going to see his brother!

Chapter Text

“Alright, you can do it!”

Said Bardon as he gave himself a last look through the mirror, before ruffling his hair.

“This is crazy!”

And he kept walking in circles, feeling terribly conflicted, until suddenly he remembered that scene from the movie where the character died for his own brother, it took him some moments as he looked into the palm of his hands, before frowning in determination.

“He died for his brother, and all I am doing here is whining…the least I can do for Hall is go and see him! and nothing is going to stop me from doing that!!!”

That's when he clenched his fist, before taking his leave, he made sure to go early in the morning, avoiding everyone he knows there, until he managed to get out of the place, walking in his disguise, he felt his heart beating at a high rate from what he was about to do, something he never expected of himself.

“Is this…part of growing up? Yeah, maybe I am becoming like this because I just turned 26!”

And just like that, he found his voice rising.

Oh no I have been thinking loudly! This is a bad habit that I need to stop!

That's when he decided it was best to just let it be and shut up.

*********

Leaving Gyrate, he found himself entering Hazlitt, where all that could protect him were his powers and nothing else, but he didn’t mind, he never minded danger in general, for he was someone who always rushed to it to help others, even when he still felt uneasy.

The road was silent, too silent for Bardon’s own liking who found the loud voice of his head the only noise filling the place, and he hated that.

I need to calm down! This is no time to feel anxious!

Walking with steady firm steps, as to trick himself into thinking that there was no need to worry about anything, he could feel a presence behind him when he turned around to see, he found no one, he thought maybe it was his anxiety playing tricks on him.

However, the more he walked, the more he could feel it behind him, and it made him quite uneasy; as he wasn’t sure what to do exactly when he couldn’t see anything, It was before he was almost shut with a missile from behind that he jumped by instinct to the side, turning his head immediately toward the source of the shot, still, he wasn’t able to find anything.

“Seriously who is it!!”

It was a moment before he was shot again, this time, closer than before that the coat was penetrated, that's when the shorts became successive, with Bardon trying his best to avoid them, and when one was about to hit him, he revealed his arm, summoning his shield to protect him, something that made the sudden attack stop, and Bardon more alert than before.

“This could be the calm before the storm!”

Strange enough, nothing happened, Bardon couldn’t exactly figure out what happened just now, but he knew one thing for sure, there was no time to waste, especially now that someone could be following him, and just like that, he sprinted between abandoned buildings as to get whoever was it lost, and just like that, he found a tunnel from afar, running toward it and just before reaching it, another bullet was shot, followed immediately by other ones.

Not again!!!!

As he avoided them, Bardon thought he lost them, but he didn’t, he couldn’t think of something to do at that moment to keep both progressing and protect himself before an idea came to mind and rather a reckless one.

“I HAVE NO CHOICE!”

Using his robotic fist and shield, He gathered all of his power to slam the cracked fragile wall of the tunnel, only for it to be smashed and the entrance to fall over, making a pile of stones block it, covering his face with his arms while closing his eyes, Bardon then opened them slowly to see what happened, realizing that his idea was successful he sighed in relief.

“At least, a way to gain some time.”

*********

The Tunnel was very dark, if not for Bardon’s shield illuminating the path he crossed, the only thing he could hear were water drops falling to the already wet ground, it was some time before he found a little light ahead of him, moving toward it until he heard a little voice of a splash coming from behind, being already alert enough, he turned around immediately

“I had enough! Whoever you are, I am fighting you!”

Approaching the source of the voice carefully since he was determined this time to face his stalker, he found the water’s little waves moving toward him, it wasn’t until something approached him slowly, that it was none other than a little kitten.

“Huh? A kitten?”

He looked in surprise, before receiving a little meow as a response, that's when he smiled softly.

“What are you doing here cutie? Have you lost your way?”

He started patting her head, getting a purr in return, and that's when he chuckled gently.

“How adorable! aren’t you just a soft one!”

It was some moment before he remembered he had a mission to do.

“Hey, I shouldn’t be wasting time! Especially not in this place!”

He then stood up from his squatting position, taking a few steps away to leave toward the little light ahead of him, until he heard the kitty meowing behind him, he stopped hesitantly in his tracks, biting on his lips.

She probably lost her mother, and she looks a little sick…a Miramon can come out of nowhere and hurt her…I can’t just leave her like this!!!

He then turned his head slowly toward the little kitten giving her a sided look, only to find her big black eyes staring right through his soul.

She is giving me the puss in boots cute face!!!

He swallowed hard that moment, before turning around and rushing to the kitten.

“This is so unfair!”

He then grabbed her with both hands softly, before hushing it.

“Don’t make any sound alright?”

That's when the kitten purred a little, and he couldn’t resist the little chuckle coming out of him.

“Okay, you know what? I’ll keep you inside my coat and then give you something to eat until we finish this mission and then, I’ll probably adopt you! what do you say?”

“Sounds like a good plan to me!”

Came a deep voice from behind that startled Bardon who turned around immediately, only to find a big wolf wearing sunglasses standing in front of him, a huge grin drawn on his lips, showing his sharp gleaming teeth through the darkness.

“Did the cat eat your tongue or what? Or maybe you are scared of me? What a pussy!”

He didn’t notice he was actually stoned in his place with his eyes wide open until he blinked twice upon hearing that insult, frowning.

“You were the one stalking me, right?”

“Huh? What do you mean stalking you?!!!” Blinked Freddy in confusion.

“Futile to deny it! You were trying to shoot me all the way down here!”

“Shooting you? Do I look like a goddamn sniper to you?”

It took Freddy some time to realize what he truly meant, smirking.

“Oh, you are talking about my partner Leon! That's the one who called me to catch you midway! And I do direct confrontation, where I beat your ass right in front of you!”

His partner? So It wasn’t him…

“Still, I am not giving up! Nothing will stop me before I see my br-”

NO! Don't reveal your identity!!!

“I mean…why would you want to catch me! I am nothing but an ordinary citizen who lost his way while trying to find his kitty!”

Freddy blinked twice before the meowing kitten who popped its head out of his coat caught his attention.

“Weren’t you saying that you were going to adopt it?”

Uhm he is actually right…What to do…

“What? Me? You must be hearing things!!”

“Ha! Still, An old guy like you running after a little kitty! How embarrassing!”

“Hey! What's wrong with loving kitties!”

“What a twink!”

He then gave him a suspicious look.

“But why the ambiguous coat?”

“I am just poor and can’t afford expensive clothes!”

Yessss! Good one Bardon!

“Tch, how pathetic, a man should be all about his looks no matter the expenses!!”

Huh?

“I mean...yeah sure! You are totally right!”

“I am always right!”

“All I need is some money and I will find better clothes! Now If you would excuse me, I’d like to leave this place!”

“Yeah, whatever, loser.”

Freddy thought for a moment that Leon was being too paranoid, until he remembered something he said, turning around.

“Wait a minute!”

He made a flinching Bardon stop in his tracks.

What now!

He then heard Freddy’s footsteps approaching him a little.

“I don’t remember an ordinary citizen with special fighting skills!”

“What? Who told you I have special fighting skills???”

“So you are admitting that huh?”

No no no my tongue slipped!!!

“It was my partner who told me, but good thing you are an idiot who can’t hold his tongue back!!”

Think of something Bardon, quick!

“The thing is…the thing is that I have been undergoing special training since I was young to protect myself in case something wrong happened to me!”

Freddy rubbed his chin, humming.

“Hm I mean weaklings like you end up being smashed, so that makes sense.”

“Yes yes, it does!”

“Alright, you can go now, twink.”

But seriously why is he so rude though…

Despite how offended he actually was, Bardon just sighed, leaving him behind, before suddenly his caller started buzzing.

Hey buddy, wassup! The union is having an urgent meeting right now and I can’t seem to find you anywhere, where did you go man?

It was at that exact moment that Bardon, who forgot he attached his caller to his pants in case someone needed him, widened his eyes.

“What?”

Said Freddy from behind who heard every single word, Bardon thought it was too late, and he had to tell him the truth, that's when he turned around.

“H-hey I can explain-”

He was suddenly interrupted by Freddy attacking him ruthlessly with his claws, while Bardon who didn’t see that coming was injured before he quickly summoned his shield.

“At least…listen to me!”

“YOU FUCKING BASTARD! TAKING ME FOR AN IDIOT!!”

“I WAS JUST TRYING TO COVER MYSELF!”

“I AM GONNA RIP YOU TO SHREDS!!”

And just like that, the big world kept attacking him nonstop, giving Bardon a very hard time who wondered what kind of strength did he possess, still, he wanted to try convincing him once again.

“I am trying to see my brother! I am not here to hurt anyone I swear please let me go!!”

It was a failed attempt, as an outraged Freddy lost his senses and was only focused on killing Bardon no matter what.

This is not good…the kitty is still inside my coat!!

“At least...let me get the kitten out–”

“AS IF I CARE ABOUT YOUR GODDAMN KITTY!”

All of a sudden, the ground below them started shaking, creating a big rift that made a way for a huge Miramon to come out.

The creature smashed the ground with force, sending both of them flying to the wall behind, Freddy, who finally got back to his senses, shook his head, before noticing the presence of the creature in front of them, that's when he received a call from Leon, who was about to warn him.

“How many times do I have to call you, mad dog?”

“How many times do I have to keep taking fucking orders from you, emo!!!”

“For as long as you are still working with me, now focus on what's in front of you, idiot."

“You think a crazy Miramon is going to stand in my way? WATCH ME!”

He slashed the creature with his sharp thick claws, causing it to fall to the ground for a moment, however, it came back at him again with a strong blow that made him fall back a little, still, Freddy kept attacking ruthlessly.

All of this and Bardon was still there watching everything.

Well, he seems like a strong guy, I think he can handle himself, and why should I care anyway about someone from the shadow decree if not Hall?

He then took the opportunity to slip away, still looking back to check on him as he felt a little concerned, but finding Freddy giving a last strong strike that ended the Miramon.

“Haha If only there were more!! I was just starting to WARM UP!”

Bardon sighed in relief, smiling a little before he saw the tunnel starting to collapse.
Freddy, who tried to avoid that, felt a huge rock falling on his head, causing it to bleed.

“Urgh shit!!”

And just when he was holding his bleeding head while closing his eyes, the ceiling was about to fall down on him.

No! He will get hurt badly! I need to help him at once!!

That's when Bardon left the kitten behind, rushing toward Freddy with all his might and covering him with a big radiant shield to protect him before the whole thing fell on their heads and buried them.

A minute passed before Bardon managed to get himself out of the pile of stones, gasping for air, he then turned his head left and right, he sure found the kitten safe which was a relief to him, but didn’t manage to spot Freddy anywhere, he frowned in concern.

“HEY! ARE YOU OKAY BIG WOLF???”

He didn’t receive any response, something that made him the more worried.

“Don’t tell me he actually…”

He didn’t even finish his sentence before the piles below him started shaking, and Freddy got out of them with force, Bardon widened his eyes.

“You are alive!”

That's when Freddy, who shook his fur, turned his head to him blinking twice.

“You are still here?? The fuck!!”

Bardon took a few steps back, before just giving up, letting out a sigh.

“I couldn’t just let you get hurt!”

And it made Freddy the more confused, if not annoyed.

“Fuck off! I don’t recall asking for your help! I am indestructible–"

“Look, I don’t care alright? If someone needs help, I am gonna help them no matter who they are. Now, if you want to kill me, just go ahead and do it.”

He dropped his arms down as a sign of resignation, making Freddy look at him in total disbelief with shaken eyebrows, it took him some moment before he just sighed, turning around.

“Whatever you fucking idiot!! Get your ass back to where you came from before I change my mind!”

Bardon couldn't help but be very surprised, blinking twice.

“You are not going to…fight me?”

“You want a fight???”

“No no that's not what I meant! It's just that...I got really surprised at the change of attitude!”

“It's not a change of attitude, I still want to tear you to shreds!”

He then stopped for a moment, before proceeding, with a pissed-off tone.

“But it's a life for a life, you tried to…help me, I’ll let you go.”

And it was something that totally took Bardon by surprise.

“Really? B-but truth to be told I still wanna see my brother Hall--”

“ARE YOU GOING OR NOT???”

“YES YES, I WILL!”

What a short temper he has!

And just when Bardon was about to leave, he stopped him.

“Hey.”

“What?”

“Your little kitty.”

Bardon was confused for a second, before he remembered, hitting his forehead.

“Omg yes! you are right!!!”

“Tch, Clumsy dumpshit!”

He then carried the little kitty in his hand and got going, letting out a long sigh.

Mission aborted…but I can’t be greedier than this, I hardly got out of this situation, I should just…go back…

Chapter Text

It was time to get back to his usual daily life where he had to help others, do his assigned missions, and participate in the union’s events, Bardon looked as energetic and optimistic as usual, or to be more specific, he pretended to.

However, if there was one thing that felt different about him, is the way he was withdrawing slowly from his friends, making up excuses each and every time they decided to meet, they sure knew he was someone who was very busy, still, Lucas felt something was odd, even if he couldn’t quite put a finger on it.

One day, Bardon came back to his room as If it was his shelter from the outer world, dropping all of his weight on the bed after a long tiring day, not only did he do a lot of effort, but dealing with people started tiring him quickly, he didn’t know what's gotten into him recently, as If he was being…someone else.

And just when he was staring at the ceiling, his caller started buzzing, and it was none other than Lucas, who kept insisting on him recently asking if he was alright.

“Oooh Lucas…I am just fine why do you have to keep calling…”

As the first call went missing, he sent him a vocal message.

Hey big Hero! Guess whaaat? I got some great news for ya! The union caught one of the shadow decree members!

What?

Suddenly, he jumped out of bed before Lucas proceeded.

They are investigating him now, But damn he was such a tough fierce one who put up one hell of a fight! if it wasn’t for one of them putting him to sleep! What a savage!

And it was at that exact moment that he answered.

“Lucas??? Hey Lucas you here!!”

“Alright, now that was fast! You sure heard everything then!”

“Who is it??”

“I don’t have much of an idea, but it's not Hall for sure, all I know is that he is a big wolf!”

That's when he widened his eyes.

It's him!!!

“Where is he now?”

“Still in the investigation room, can you believe he refused to let one single word out of his mouth? All he kept telling were death threats!”

There was no doubt about it, now that Bardon thought about it, before frowning.

“I am coming!”

“Ahahaha you sure don’t wanna miss the excitement!”

Bardon headed immediately toward the room to check it out through the glass, only to realize he was right.

I can’t believe they caught him!!!

That's when his friend patted his shoulder, making Bardon startled for a moment, Lucas couldn’t help but blink twice.

“You okay? You look tense!”

“Huh? Oooh, I am fine don’t worry! You just took me by surprise!”

Replied Bardon with his usual radiant smile and a little chuckle, before he remembered something all of a sudden.

Hold on a second! If I show up like this he will know me! I must get back quickly!!

“Oh, I just remembered I had something urgent to do! I think I’ll be going now!”

“What? But you just came-”

“See you next time!”

“H-hey! Bardon! wait!”

And before Lucas managed to even reach him, he found him already vanishing off of his sight, becoming totally confused.

******

As the night fell upon the city, Freddy was sitting down in his individual cell, lying on his bed with his arms crossed behind his back, he finished the last grilled chicken given to him, throwing the bones away carelessly, before turning his head to the guards.

“Hey, you.”

The guards, who were already intimidated by him as they never saw a wolf as big as him, were shaken for a moment, they looked at each other, before one of them took a quick pick at him.

“Uhm…yes?”

He sure sensed the fear in them, and therefore, he grinned.

“How about you start being more useful and give me another grilled chicken?”

And it was the sixth one in a raw. They thought he had the stomach of a bear, not to mention they couldn’t answer his order before one of them gathered enough courage to face him.

“The number of dishes allowed to prisoners is limited, we can’t give you more than that.”

“Huuuh?”

The mere threatening tone made both of them shiver, even though they were separated by a locked door.

“You mean that you won’t take my order? Alright then.”

The guards didn’t know exactly what to say, wondering why he went silent, until all of a sudden, one of them was grabbed by his collar through the cell bars, being face to face with Freddy who looked pissed off.

“HOW ABOUT I FEED ON YOU!”

The guard thought it was the end of him, shouting for his life.

“Please let go of me!!”

His friend couldn’t do anything but watch stoned in his place.

“Enough prisoner!”

Said a voice coming from the corridor, even though he couldn't see the face, Freddy could have sworn he heard the voice somewhere, before letting go of the guard, who let out a sigh of relief, greeting the person who came.

“Sir! What brings you here?”

That's when Bardon’s expression became less tense, looking at them apologetically.

“I see you are having a hard time here, I am really sorry you had to go through this.”

“No, It's alright! After all, this is our duty!”

“Still, you don’t deserve it.”

He went silent for a little moment, thinking for the last time whether this was the best thing to do or not, but then just blurted it out.

“How about you both go home while I take this shift for you? You can tell the principals that this night is my responsibility, so you won’t take the blame for anything that can happen.”

The guard blinked twice in surprise as they didn’t expect that, exchanging a look together.

“Really? We don’t want to burden you, Mr. Bardon!”

“Of course not! It is my duty to protect you too!”

And just like that, they smiled at him gratefully.

“We will never forget about this favor!”

“Please don’t even mention it!”

Smiled Bardon back to them, before he asked them for the keys, making sure they left already and that there was no one there, before he took a deep breath.

I have never thought in my life that I would do something like this…

But then, he just fathered his courage, opening the door to the cell, and becoming face to face with Freddy, who raised an eyebrow in confusion, before grinning a little.

“Look who do we have here!”

“You are gonna help me meet my brother if you want your freedom back!”

Said Bardon with a determined frown, making Freddy blink twice in total surprise as he didn’t expect that at all, only for a large malicious smirk to take place.

“So this is the ugly side of the esper union huh?”

Bardon swallowed hard, feeling the guilt filling his heart, he clenched his fist, pressing on the keys, before just looking away ashamed.

“More like the ugly side of me…”

Freddy, who found this sight more than enjoyable, stood up from his place, approaching Bardon slowly who felt alerted, turning his head back to him.

“And what If I said no?”

Despite how tall Bardon was, Freddy was much taller and bigger he had to lift his head up so that their eyes meet, covered by the big wolf’s shadow, still, Bardon didn’t move one bit.

“Then I will have to lock you down again.”

He then whispered, approaching Bardon’s face even more, his sharp teeth showing a little while his wolf-yellowish eyes gleamed in the darkness of the night.

“I’d like to see you trying!”

Not breaking eye contact at all, Bardon gave him a determined look.

“Then get ready to be defeated!”

The tension between the two was surreal as If they can start a fight any passing second, Freddy, despite feeling the urge to fight Bardon, was somehow calmed by the young man’s blue eyes that reflected such courage he didn’t witness anywhere, he couldn’t deny the fact that he saw something special in him.

While Bardon remembered that Freddy liked fights and that he won’t back away, causing only chaos and ruining his plan, he tried to think of something else, before an idea came to mind as he remembered a piece of information given to him.

I am already giving him freedom, even if it's a temporary one until I catch him again, won’t this be…too much? I am trying nevertheless!

“A fight will only leave a mess in here.”

“As If I give a shit!”

“I have something else that will make you help me!”

“YOU ARE TESTING MY PATIENCE!!--”

“I can get you the most trendy pair of sunglasses that no one can afford in Gyrate!”

Interrupted Bardon, who took Freddy totally off guard.

“Huh???”

Bardon realized the plan could work and thought of taking advantage and proceeding.

“You heard me right! I happen to help the designers on many occasions that they offered me one for free."

Freddy then gave it a quick thought, before frowning suspiciously.

“And what If you were trying to trick me like you did last time?”

And it was at that exact moment that Bardon slipped a hand inside of his coat, letting out a shiny pair of trendy new sunglasses that made Freddy widen his sparkling eyes, his current shades almost falling.

“I-Its them…”

I knew he liked sunglasses!

Bardon, feeling already triumphant from Freddy’s reaction, gave him some moment to look at it, before putting it back in its right place.

“You are not getting them until you help me.”

He was wearing a stoic facial expression while Freddy was following the glasses with his eyes until he looked at Bardon gritting his teeth.

“I can still kill you AND GET THEM!!!”

It was at that exact moment that Bardon slammed Freddy against the wall behind with his shield, pinning him against it while resting one arm on the wolf’s neck, scowling.

“I said you are not going to get them on my dead body!! UNTIL YOU HELP ME!! YOU UNDERSTAND???”

The last bit came out as an angry shout from Bardon, who made Freddy look at him totally surprised, not expecting such a temper, it wasn’t until the big wolf thought of the glasses again, sighing in irritation.

“Alright bastard, I will help you with it, and then I will get my freedom and the glasses, don’t you dare go back on your word!!”

He growled at the man, who shook his head, still wearing a very serious facial expression.

“I am a man of my word.”

The wolf looked at him for some time, before lifting his hands up smirking.

“Alright I surrender twink, let go of me.”

Seeing how he let loose, Bardon let go of Freddy, who took him off guard that moment, trying to reach for the glasses inside of his coat.

“HAHA GOTCHA!-”

Only for Bardon, who somehow expected that but still felt irritated, punched him in the face.

“Are you going to behave or not???”

It felt like a human being trying to tame a wolf, and funny enough, it worked, Freddy growled a little, before rolling his eyes irritated.

“Tch whatever, lead the way fucker.”

Bardon sighed, before coming out of the cell carefully, checking the hallway and the passage.

“Alright, there is no one, let us go.”

Freddy just followed from behind, a malicious grin showing on his face as he looked at Bardon from behind.

What an idiot, going to his doom on his own feet…

While a guilty Bardon was deep in thought.

I am sorry everyone…I will make sure to catch him myself next time, but for now, this is my only chance to see Hall…

—-----

“And then I gave my teddy bear to a crying Hall just to ease him! Can you believe how sensitive he actually was? Ahaha he is just so adorab–”

“CAN’T YOU SHUT UP FOR AT LEAST FIVE MINUTES!!! I don’t fucking care about that emo!!”

“Hey! Don’t talk about him like that!!!”

“I say whatever the fuck I want, DEAL WITH IT PUSSY!”

Bardon just sighed, wishing that Freddy was less of a jerk to him all the way down here, not knowing that he was talking nonstop about his brother to the angry wolf the whole road.

What was I even expecting…

Then he remembered something that made him turn his head to Freddy.

“Oh, I haven’t introduced myself to you!”

That's when Freddy rolled his eyes in irritation, again.

“As If I want to know you!!!”

Still, Bardon ignored him, stopping in his tracks, making Freddy who stopped as well lift one brown in confusion before the other extended his arm to the wolf with the shiniest smile ever.

"The name is Bardon! I just turned 26 years old! I am someone who loves watching mov-oh wait that was kinda bad..."

He was deep in thought thinking about it again, before clearing his throat, smiling again.

"Okay let's do this again! The name is Bardon! I am part of the Esper Union! Usually, they call me--oh man this is so embarrassing If only dumb me did more rehearsals ahahaha!"

All of this and Freddy looked at the man in total disbelief while he was doing multiple introductions.

What the fuck!!

"Alright! What do you think? Did I do good?"

Seeing how Freddy was looking at him ad didn’t shake his hand, Bardon smiled sheepishly while rubbing the back of his neck.

"I mean it's not the best I know, but it's still good somehow!"

"Are you on drugs?"

"What? I didn't mention that in my introduction! It's not saying that people who take drugs are bad because they could be in need of it and we should never mock people who suffer from--"

"SHUT THE FUCK UP BEFORE I PULL YOUR TONGUE OUT OF YA MOUTH",

That's when Bardon who almost jumped out of its place raised his hands in the air before a furious Freddy.

"W-what?? Oh, I am sorry!!! forget I said anything..."

“Geez!”

What did I do wrong!!! he is just so hard to deal with! I am not used to this kind of people around me...

"Alright, how about you introduce yourself to me!"

"I am someone who is this close to ripping you to shreds!!! HOW ABOUT THAT?!!!"

"Still an introduction somehow..."

And just like that, Bardon got back to talking once again about his memories with Hall on their way, expressing how proud he is of him, while Freddy was wishing he could just punch him in the face, but enduring it for the sake of the beautiful glasses.

Chapter Text

And now, they were facing the entrance to the shadow decree hold.

“Finally! I hate walking!"

Said Freddy stumping on his feet and walking forward, while Bardon stood in his place for a second, looking quite unsure, something that made the wolf turn around to look at him before a malicious grin made place.

“What? You scared?”

Am I…?

It took the blonde man some time, before taking confident steps ahead walking past the wolf.

“When I make up my mind on something, I do it!”

The young man walked ahead determinedly, while Freddy looked at him amused, feeling already thrilled about what was coming.

We will see about it, idiot!

—-----

He knew it, he knew there was something off about his best friend after he made sure to look everywhere Bardon would go but found no trace of him.

And now, Lucas resorted to the last thing, asking Commander Falken.

“Commander, It's me Lucas! may I come in?”

Upon hearing the familiar voice, he thought of giving him permission even though he had things to look after.

“Yes, you may, Lucas.”

The young man did as told, he was someone who is a little intimidated by his superiors, and the commander was no exception, seeing how hesitating he looked, Falken made sure the other felt comfortable enough.

“Take a seat, and tell me what brings you here.”

“Uhm…sorry but I don’t think I can even sit down at this point…”

A concern could be seen on his face, something Falken took note of, lifting one brow.

“Is there something wrong?”

Knowing the man saw right through him, Lucas took out a long sigh.

“That's the thing, Commander, I don’t know…”

The commander looked a little puzzled.

“What do you mean?”

The younger of the two decided to take steps closer to the desk, frowning.

“Bardon…”

“I was about to ask for his presence, but what about him?”

The younger of the two went silent for a moment, before just blurting it out.

“I can’t seem to find him anywhere!”

Falken blinked twice.

“It has been some time since I assigned him a mission, and If you thought that I gave him a vacation, then let me tell you that I didn’t.”

And that's what made Lucas concern even worse, widening his eyes.

“And I thought you did!! This was my last hope!!!”

Sensing that something was wrong, Falken stood up from his place.

“Are you suspecting something?”

“Yes!! He is found nowhere!! he doesn’t even have a family to visit! lately, he wasn’t being himself, withdrawing from us, and pretending he is all busy!!! also…he has been missing his brother so much but no longer talks about him anymore!”

“Well, isn’t that quite him?”

“The thing is that…he acted really strange when I told him about a shadow decree member we caught, he was so worked up upon knowing we got him, and when he took a glimpse at him, he looked so uneasy, then took his leave quickly!”

“You mean the big wolf Freddy?”

“Yes!”

Falken didn’t really pay much attention to that piece of information, thinking that Bardon might have been upset over the fact that it wasn’t Hall.

“Freddy went missing yesterday, he managed to escape the prison somehow, and the guards said something about Bardon taking over their shift–”

It was at that moment that both of them widened their eyes looking at each other as they connected the dots.

“Could it be…”

“This can’t be!!”

And both of them knew that something wrong happened, and Bardon was included in it, Lucas was so distressed his face went pale.

“Commander! Wh-what If something wrong happened to Bardon!! What if that wolf tried to hurt him!!!”

Falken went silent for a moment, looking at his own desk while frowning.

What If the wolf didn’t force him into that, but more like…

“There is one way to find out...”

“And what could that be??”

He then lifted his head up to meet the young man’s worried gaze, sighing.

“Lucas, get back to your duty, I’ll take care of this, If I need your assistance, I will call for you.”

“B-but Commander!--”

“Do as I say, trust me, I know what I am doing, just make sure not to tell anyone, if anything, Bardon went for a mission, got it?”

“Alright…” he added with a pleading facial expression “Please tell me about any updates…”

“I will.”

And just like that, Falken signed for Lucas to be dismissed, tapping his fingers against the desk while deep in thought, before grabbing a phone number in the drawer, looking at it for a long time.

I wonder If I should do it…

—----

It was a dark tunnel, Bardon had a hard time walking while wondering how Freddy could do it with such ease.

“I know you are used to this place, but seriously how can you do it?”

Freddy noticed how he wasn’t seeing enough, grinning.

“That's because I am a wolf, I can see in the dark better than you, loser!”

“Oooh, I see…”

Bardon rubbed his chin, before thinking of something that moment, and that would be summoning his bright shield that illuminated the place, making him smile.

“Much better now!”

“Whatever…”

The big wolf rolled his eyes, before Bardon turned his head to him, looking at him for a while.

He seems much more tolerating than before, Alright, maybe I should try to be more friendly to him.

“By the way, even though you didn’t introduce yourself to me, I still know you!”

That's when Freddy gave him a side look.

“Huh? The hell ya mean?”

Bardon then smiled, approaching the wolf a little so that they walked side by side, trying to be more casual around him.

“For instance, you are mighty Freddy!”

Freddy blinked twice, looking surprised at first, before grinning.

“Seems like I am becoming famous!”

Bardon nodded to him happily, hitting his arm with his elbow lightly.

“Yes yes, you are! I also know that you loved sunglasses! And that you compete with someone called…”

He hummed a little trying to remember before the now-interested wolf interrupted him.

“You mean Unky Chai! That man is a living legend I am telling ya! No one can compete with his expensive shades!!!”

Bardon nodded to him, before giving him a confident smile giving him a thumbs up.

“Not after you get my special sunglasses! He won’t stand a chance against you!”

Freddy grinned back looking ahead of him.

“You can bet on that twink!”

Bardon was relieved that at least he made a successful friendly attempt with the wolf without him losing his temper, he then thought he should go on.

“Still, I’d like to know you more Freddy!”

“Someone here is interested in me! As you should be!”

He then lets out an amused loud laugh that echoed around the place, before proceeding.

“If there is one thing that I think is the most important, it's a man’s look! A person is all about their appearance! I hate those who look like shit!”

The last bit made Bardon lift one brow, before scratching his cheek.

Well, he is an honest one…

But he smiled nevertheless.

“Alright! And what kind of place do you want to go to?”

“That would be Chole’s Hair Salon!”

Chloe? Is he talking about David’s girlfriend?

“Oooh, I see! And I suppose you go there for your fu-”

“YES! You have noticed already didn’t ya!!”

Said a grinning Freddy with such sudden enthusiasm as he approached his face to Bardon, who blinked twice.

“Uhm…notice what exactly?”

It was just a guess he made before a grinning Freddy started touching his fur in a flexing way, radiating confidence.

“Look at my beautiful fur! Since Chole started looking after it, it became THE BEST FUR EVER! Ladies would die to touch it!!!”

His eyes gleamed with excitement and his teeth shone bright, while Bardon laughed amusingly at his reaction.

“Who could blame them? You look so fluffy and cute in it!”

And it was at that moment that Freddy’s reaction changed into a vexed one.

“Who ya calling fluffy and cute??! YOU THINK I AM SOME KIND OF A GODDAMN PUPPY??”

Upon realizing he made him angry, a nervous Bardon rushed to explain.

“NO NO! I swear I didn’t mean it that way, Freddy! Even a cool wolf like you can be fluffy, handsome, and attractive at the same time!”

It took him some moment to look at Bardon, before smirking again.

“Ahahahaha I know I know!”

And just like that the two of them kept walking while Bardon was thinking about it.

Phew that was close! Think of it...he is actually easy to win if you flatter him…I mean let's be honest he really is fluffy, handsome, and attractive!

He blinked twice at the last thought.

Uhm, hold on…

Without realizing it, Bardon slammed his head against a pillar in the middle of the road, not hearing Freddy’s warning who frowned in irritation.

“Clumsy dumpshit! Told ya to watch out!”

“Urgh my nose!”

“Tch I am so sick of you…”

He sighed at his absent-mindedness, before glancing at the wolf again, back to the fur again.

“Uhm…Freddy…”

“What now?”

“Is it okay If I…touch your fur?”

“Huh?”

No matter how many times Freddy bragged about his hair, no one has ever made such a request, still, and despite looking quite surprised, he nodded slightly.

“I mean…yeah yeah go ahead and touch it! I guess…”

Even though he was given permission, Bardon approached one hand carefully, gently touching Freddy’s fur, tilting his head a little to the side in curiosity, it wasn’t until he felt strangely satisfied at the sensation.

Woah…he was actually right!!

And just like that, Bardon got more confident, letting his fingers slide through the fur.

“It's incredibly smooth! I love it!”

Upon hearing such a compliment, Freddy felt ecstatic, smiling widely.

“I TOLD YA!!! FEELS BETTER THAN SATIN!!”

And he is not even exaggerating!!!

Forgetting himself, Bardon approached the other hand to touch the fur even more, it wasn’t until his eyes fell on Freddy’s shaking tail, widening his eyes in shock.

Are you telling me…HE IS ACTING LIKE A HAPPY DOG?

He swallowed hard, dogs have always been his weakness, especially fluffy ones, and just like that, his hand grabbed Freddy’s tail unconsciously, making the big wolf freeze in his place, turning immediately to growl at Bardon.

“TAKE YOUR FUCKING HANDS OFF OF MY TAIL!!!”

Bardon flustered, taking them off immediately and blushing.

“I-I really am sorry! I know it's a sensitive place!!”

“A sensitive place??? IT'S LIKE TOUCHING SOMEONE’S FUCKING ASS!”

OH NO! IT'S THIS TERRIBLE!!

He quickly withdrew his hands, taking his distance embarrassingly while looking away.

“I just…I just liked your fur so much I felt like touching it more…”

Upon hearing such words, Freddy felt somehow guilty for lashing out at Bardon while he admired his precious fur, he sighed, looking elsewhere too while scratching his cheek.

"Hey, I didn’t stop you from touching it alright?!! Just don’t approach the tail that's it…”

Bardon sighed in return, wishing he knew to take others’ feelings into consideration before doing something offensive, but he smiled nevertheless to erase the awkwardness.

“Anyway Uhm…you have such very beautiful fur! I am still so amazed by it!”

“Aha ahaha told ya Twink!”

Said Freddy with an awkward laugh rather than a confident one, wondering why he was acting this strange when he was used to hearing his subordinates compliment him and pump his ego all the time, he then gave Bardon a sided look, noticing how blushy his cheeks were, and remembering how gentle and lovely his touches were, something he never experienced, even with Chole’s professional touches.

While Bardon was wondering why he started letting his guard down around him.

Shouldn’t I be more careful? He is still no ordinary person, why am I this relaxed around him…

“Hey.”

Snapped Freddy the other man out of his thoughts, who turned his head to him.

“Yes?”

“You can still…touch it if you want…”

Said the big wolf while brushing the back of his neck embarrassingly, waiting for the other’s response, while the blonde man looked at him totally surprised at first, before smiling brightly.

“For real??”

“Yeah, but only the head!! alright?!!”

“Okay!!!”

And just like that, Freddy leaned his head to a slightly unsure Bardon, who approached his hands carefully, enjoying once again the smoothness with the tips of his fingers as he moved them across the fluffy hair, while Freddy felt so relaxed from the gentle sensation his tail started wagging again, putting his ears back, Bardon took that as a very good sign, moving his hands more, only for Freddy, who despite how much he tried to resist, dropped down like a happy dog, showing his chest to Bardon, and making the latter hold his mouth touched.

I CAN’T WITH HOW CUTE HE IS!!!

Needless to say, he started rubbing Freddy’s chest with all the enthusiasm he got.

“Awww aren’t you a good boy Freddy?!!”

A part of the big wolf was trying to resist the stupid thing he just heard, but the other just submitted to him, smiling like an idiot.

“Yes, yess I am!!!”

Bardon laughed happily, wanting so badly to hug the big fluffy dog, smiling dreamily while rubbing his head against Freddy’s shoulder and losing himself.

“Really now?”

They let out a scaredy scream the moment the person showed up, jumping immediately away from each other, making the hooded man look at them displeased.

“Do I look this scary to you?”

Said Leon as he stood there in front of them, while the other two turned their back at each other almost sweating, looking as if they were caught red handed, needless to say he saw everything they were doing, before turning his head to Freddy who was trying to act more natural.

“Hm, you are back.”

“Haha Yes of course I am back, poker face! Missed me?”

“Not really, the place was quiet without you.”

“Ahahah! What a tsundere!”

He then turned his head to Bardon, who looked at him a little confused.

“You were the one who came before.”

“How did you know?” Bardon blinked twice.

“I shot you.”

He simply stated, making Bardon frown.

“So It was you!!!”

Even though he felt upset, he still understood where Leon came from, sighing.

“It's alright, I hold no hate against you, for hate is too heavy of a word for a pacifist like me, you were just protecting a place special to your heart, and as a territorial fellow, I understand what you are doing!!”

Leon looked at him confused, before looking at Freddy, as If asking ‘What's wrong with him?’ only for Freddy to laugh.

“Don’t mind this moron! he thinks he came straight out of a movie!”

Bardon looked a little insulted at Freddy, before just sighing, turning his head to Leon.

“The name is Bardon, and I--”

“NOT ANOTHER INTRODUCTION!”

Freddy quickly proceeded to shut Bardon up.

“This dumbass here freed me to help him see his emo brother!!!”

“Hm? What brother?”

“Hall!”

Intervened Bardon, making Leon blink twice.

“Hall?”

“Yes!”

The sniper stayed silent for a moment as he remembered Hall, before pointing with his finger at them, trying to understand things.

“You let him out of prison, so that he can help you see your brother, and he accepted?”

Bardon and Freddy looked at each other, before nodding to him at the same time, making Leon look surprised.

“And I thought this mad dog was the most stupid.”

"Say that again AND I WILL–"

Freddy was about to lose his nerves, before an upset Bardon stood in between, interrupting him.

“Alright, first of all, I would do anything to see my brother, even if I had to sacrifice myself! And second of all.”

He frowned.

“Freddy is not a mad dog!!”

Huh?

Thought both Freddy and Leon, who looked surprised at Bardon’s unexpected response, as oblivious as he was to others, kept going.

“Even though he likes smashing heads and looks down on people who look like shit, he still has got feelings and is amazing in his own way!! Don't hurt him like that with your cruel words!!”

To see someone actually trying to defend him like that made Freddy look in disbelief at first, since no one has ever done it for him, before his lips twitching upward a little, while Leon looked already done with the both of them.

“Save your complaints for yourself.”

Upon realizing what he was doing, Bardon blinked twice.

You know, he is right, why get all worked up over an enemy…

Meanwhile, Leon gave a meaningful glance to Freddy who, as he understood it, grinned, before the sniper turned around.

"I am leading the way to your brother Hall."

And it was then that Bardon was snapped out of his thoughts, looking surprised.

"Really?" before he felt a little suspicious "But why suddenly cooperative? You tried to kill me before, and Freddy accepted to help because of the sunglasses I offered in return.”

It was at that exact moment that Leon looked at Freddy as if to tell him ‘So this is why you are doing it’, while the wolf, who knew very well what kind of look was that, turned his gaze away whistling nervously.

"I care about Hall."

Said Leon to Bardon, making the latter look the more surprised.

"He happened to mention once that he missed his big brother, and I suppose that's you."

That's when Bardon was totally taken aback.

What…?

"Hall…missed me?!!!"

The conversation was cut by a bored Freddy.

"Are we going to waste time on stupid chitchatting? I got better things to do!!!"

"Like being in jail."

Again, Leon simply responded with a straight face, making Freddy roll his eyes in irritation.

“Tch, whatever!!”

While Bardon smiled faintly, before nodding to Leon.

“Please, lead the way.”

—-----

He already knew what was happening, after Leon told him everything over the phone, making Sander, who was sitting on his chair, stand up off of his place, leaving all the papers on the desk behind him and approaching the big glass window, observing the view.

Coming to the lion’s den for his sibling, how foolish!

A malicious large grin took place as he thought of the things he could do to the intruder, before the buzzing phone snapping him out of his thoughts, making him turn around to grab it almost immediately as a reflex.

“Hello, who is it?”

And he received nothing but a silent response, making him lift one brow, before just sighing, thinking it might be someone messing around, about to hang up before finally hearing a voice, and rather a familiar one.

“Mr. Sander, it's me, Falken.”

And there was absolutely no doubt about it, for he knew this voice more than any other, widening his eyes, still not believing his ears.

Am I hearing things?

It took him some seconds before he pulled himself together.

“Mr. Falken, what a surprise.”

Even though he really was surprised, Sander didn’t show it to Falken, who acted normally, while Falken was feeling nervous, wondering how he should start this conversation without making it awkward, deciding it's best to just act professional and leave the past to the past.

“I apologize If I interrupted your work, it's just that I needed to ask you about something.”

And it was at that moment that Sander lifted one brow, looking visibly surprised and curious at the same time, even when he had a feeling this had to do with the intruder.

“And what could that be?”

It took Falken some time, to consider it again.

Is it a good idea? What If I made things worse…

But he knew no one could help him with this but Sander, after all, he didn’t want anyone to know about Bardon, having a feeling that he was gone to see his brother.

“Is there a member of the union at your hold?”

And his guess was right, a sly smirk made its way slowly on Sander’s face, who felt somehow delighted at the mere thought of Falken coming to him for answers.

“And what If I said yes? What would you do then?"

It was at that moment that Falken widened his eyes.

Bardon, what did you do?!!

He tried his best to calm down, letting out a long sigh, before proceeding.

“I’d ask to give him back.”

It was at that moment that Sander burst out laughing, And how humiliating that felt to Falken, who thought he just made a fool out of himself in front of the man who was still laughing in amusement.

“I see, you have got a sense of humor.” he added “As simple as that, give him back.”

And again, Sander burst laughing, making Falken uneasy for a moment, however, a voice deep down convinced him what he was doing was for the sake of his subordinate, and therefore, he added confidently.

“I know nothing comes for free, and what I am asking right now might sound hard if not impossible, however, I am ready to offer something in return.”

After managing to hold himself a little, Sander took a sip out of his cup of water, responding sarcastically.

“And what would that be, I wonder?”

Falken took a deep quiet breath, before just saying it.

“That would be me.”

Sander almost choked on the water upon hearing that, his eyes widening.

The hell did I just hear?

“What??”

He was waiting for a response from the other who went silent for a moment, before adding.

“I said I am ready to offer myself in exchange for my subordinate.”

“Have you lost your mind, Mr Falken?”

“No, I didn’t, my subordinates are as important to me as any other superior, and I am ready to do anything for their safety, even If I had to sacrifice myself.”

And it was at that moment that Sander went speechless, while looking at his desk, taking a pen and rolling it between his fingers in a hypnotic way.

I am not sure if this is heroism or plain stupidity…

Somehow, he didn’t want him to do that, for he didn’t want to see him get hurt, remembering the old days and memories they shared together, he took out a long sigh.

“Is he this important to you?”

“Yes, he is.”

Responded Falken almost immediately, looking so sure through his tone, making Sander sigh again, massaging his forehead before he got back to his serious stoic demeanor as if scolding in a way.

“Have you ever thought that I can trick you into giving him, to trap the both of you?”

Falken knew very well that Sander had the power to do this so easily, making him sigh, and scratching his cheek while looking down.

“I trust you not to do so, Mr Sander.”

And it came in a tone that made the other sense something inside of him, a rush of feelings from the past, he couldn’t deny to himself that he missed him, missed his company, but prioritized his ambition above everything else, Falken did him nothing wrong, still, he didn’t know if he really deserved such a genuine trust coming from his old partner.

“Bad choice Falken, bad choice” he added “Trusting your enemy, you will never change, still as naive as ever.”

And just how much he hated to hear that, feeling extremely guilty that he resorted to him, before thinking of just giving up on him.

“At least, I tried, and I thank you for your time Mr Sander, farewell–”

“Wait.”

Blurted Sander out as a command without realizing it, to refrain him from stopping the call, before clearing his throat.

“I will see what I can do.”

He sure wasn’t expecting it, Falken widened his eyes, wondering if this was some kind of a test.

“What made you change your mind all of a sudden?”

He knew he was going to ask that, and he had the perfect answer.

“Probably the same reason you called me.”

Falken went silent, thinking about it, somehow, Sander’s tone felt more genuine than before, if not a little warmer, something that made him long for the old days as well.

I missed you, Sander...

“What's on your mind?”

And just like that, he was snapped out of that deep thinking by Sander's deep kind of teasing voice, who knew very well his head was probably in the clouds, while Falken who blushed, tried to think of something to say.

“It's just…”

He was about to let his thoughts out in a moment of trust before he just sighed.

“Never mind.”

He knew he refrained from expressing himself, and he couldn’t blame him, after all, he gave him more than a reason to suspect him, still, he wanted to earn the first trust back again.

“No need to sacrifice yourself." He added, "I will handle it.”

Falken felt hopeful again upon hearing that.

“Really?”

And Sander couldn’t help but smile amusingly at his reaction, suppressing a chuckle.

“What do you think?”

“I…” Falken didn’t know exactly what to tell him, before blushing a little

“I'll leave it to you then.”

Even though he was someone who couldn’t care any less about what others thought of him, Sander still cared about Falken’s opinion, he cared about him in general, more than he wanted to admit to himself.

“But I still won’t guarantee anything.”

It was at that moment that Falken smiled.

“It's alright, I still appreciate the slightest effort you do for me.”

Upon hearing such words, Sander felt strangely content, as if nothing changed between the two of them despite what happened.

“Alright, I will update you, commander.”

Falken just nodded slightly, before gathering what remained of his courage to stop him from going for a moment.

“Sander.”

He appreciated the fact that he called his name without using honorifics, smiling a little.

“Yes?”

It took him a while, before just saying it, in a warm tone.

“Thank you.”

And it took Sander a while before responding.

"No need for that."

Falken smiled genuinely at his words, looking at the eagle trinket standing on his desk that Sander had given him long ago.

“Alright, take care.”

“You too.”

And just like that, he hung up the phone, while looking once again at the view across the window, with a warmer facial expression.

If only you didn’t turn your back on me and joined me instead, Falken…

Chapter Text

The short distance felt too long for Leon, who kept listening to Bardon and Freddy talking nonstop about taking care of their hair while rambling about gym and keeping a fit body, before finally realizing their birthdays were one day apart.

“No way!! We are almost twins!!’”

“I KNOW RIGHT!”

And they both burst laughing in joy, while Leon hated every second of it.

They are so annoying…

He wanted to think of something to shut them up, and there was the first thing coming to mind.

"Why did Hall leave you?"

The question came out of nowhere it made Bardon’s smile vanish slowly, before scratching his cheek.

"I…I don't know…the only thing I know is that…he wanted to kill me."

Leon couldn’t help but look surprised as he didn’t hear this side of the story from Hall, before giving him a sided look.

"How?"

It took a sad Bardon sometime before his lips parted.

"He shot me with a poisonous arrow."

And now, it was Freddy’s turn to widen his eyes in surprise.

"Huh? What the hell! If I were you, I'd abandon this bastard right away!"

"Don't call him that! I am sure…he had his own reasons…”

"REASONS MY ASS! Trying so hard to lie to yourself or what??"

The two kept arguing, while Leon kept thinking about it.

But Hall doesn't seem to be the kind to do such a thing…

It wasn’t until his phone buzzed that a vocal message was sent.

Leon, I’d like to train with you today, would you mind if I…did? I don’t want to be a burden on you…

The shy deep voice was so familiar Bardon widened his eyes, turning his head around immediately as he knew it was Hall's, His lips twitched upwards, waiting for Leon to call him back until he didn’t, and that's when he looked at him confused.

“Uhm, Leon?”

“What?”

“Can you please…tell him that I came here?”

“Who told you that I didn’t?”

“But…You didn’t call him back!”

“Yes I didn’t, but I sent him a message instead, connectivity is low in this place.”

Even though Bardon didn't trust Leon deep down since he was unsure, he still wanted to believe him, it wasn’t until the latter realized they were actually so close that he gave Freddy a sided look, who upon noticing, grinned subtly.
It was a moment before the sniper stopped in his tracks, looking at a closed door in the hallway, making the other two pause too, he turned around calmly to face Bardon.

“Here we are.”

The blond man, who was surprised, felt his heart beating so fast, but he gave Leon a determined look nevertheless and nodded, taking a few steps ahead, before he felt someone grabbing him by the shoulder.

“Oi!!”

He turned around to an impatient Freddy, who lifted one brow.

“Hand over the sunglasses!!”

Upon realizing he forgot, Bardon widened his eyes a little.

“Oh, I am sorry! One second!”

He slid his hand to his coat, grabbing them and giving them to him with a smile.

“Here!”

The big wolf took them immediately, and hurried to test them, looking at himself through his little mirror with the biggest grin ever.

“Look at me!! I AM FABULOUS! Imma post this on Instagram!!”

He then burst laughing, about to take a selfie before Bardon stopped him.

“Wait!”

The big wolf was confused for a moment, before suddenly Badron’s hand slid up his forehead to fix his messy hair, giving him a thumbs up.

“Alright, much better now!’

The blond man took a few steps back to look at a confused Freddy, before smiling warmly.

“You look handsome.”

If it wasn’t for his fur, someone could have easily seen the blush on Freddy’s cheeks, who kept looking at Bardon without opening his mouth, needless to say, Leon saw everything and had enough.

“Are you going, or not?”

That's when Bardon turned around immediately.

“Sorry! Coming!”

He took a deep breath, before opening the door and coming in, only to find no one, Bardon couldn't help but be confused, turning his head left and right.

“Uhm, guys? There is no one in here, could it be that Hall is coming later—”

And just like that, he was caught by two guards, one grabbing his hands from behind and the other injecting him with something, making Bardon

“What?? What are you doing!!”

It was at that moment that Leon’s lips twitched upwards.

“Catching you.”

That's when Bardon widened his eyes in shock.

So It was a trap!!!

He then looked the world's way, his eyes almost pleading.

“Freddy! I thought we became friends!!”

That’s when the big wolf grinned maliciously.

"Jokes on you! you think I’d let someone from the union escape my grip?? THINK AGAIN!!”

He then burst laughing, watching Bardon, who started slowly losing consciousness due to the injection, being taken away by the guards.

“Finally.”

Leon lets out a long irritated sigh, turning around to Freddy, only to find that confident grin suddenly gone, his facial expression looking unhappy, if not concerned.

"What is it?"

It took Freddy some time to realize Leon was talking to him, shaking his head.

"Huh? N-nothing…"

"You care about him?"

Freddy, who didn’t expect that, flustered a little.

"What? The hell you talking about!! As if that would happen ahahaha!!"

Leon kept looking at him, not convinced one bit, but let it slide anyway.

"Well, better not happen."

He was about to take his leave, before remembering something that bothered him, turning around to the wolf.

"Also, Adjust your glasses, they are 5 degrees leaning toward the left side."

"Well Guess what poker face? I like them this way!!"

"Hmph, Your thing…"

—-----

He was opening his eyes slowly, feeling his head so heavy that he couldn’t even lift it up, pressing on his forehead.

“Urgh…my head is killing me…”

It took him some moment before fully woke up, remembering what happened and widening his eyes, and just when he tried to stand up, he founds his legs and arms tied down, he blinked twice, checking once again, only to find himself pinned to what seemed like a flatbed, he felt so confused and close to losing his patience.

“Seriously! Where am I!!!”

“You are in my lab, sugar.”

Came the voice of a woman from afar, Bardon turned his gaze quickly to her as she stood in the darkness.

“Huh? Who are you??”

It was at that moment that she chuckled, approaching him slowly, until her face was finally revealed under the light of the room, giving him a chill smile.

“I am Anesidora, a researcher who works for the shadow decree, and you are…”

She got closer to him, touching his arms with her fingertips, giving him a sly smile.

“A valuable test subject that I never expected!”

Bardon couldn’t help but frown, even when he felt a little scared inside.

I can't believe I am a test subject for the shadow decree…

“I’d rather die than let you use me!!!”

He said with such a determined heroic tone that made Anesidora look at him surprised at first, before letting out an amused laugh.

“Aren’t you just cute?”

She then looked at his prosthetic arm, looking genuinely impressed.

“My! What a masterpiece!”

She then wanted to test something, hitting it a little, only for Bardon to flinch, looking at her irritated.

“What are you doing!”

Anesidora couldn’t help but look at him astonished, before smiling widely at him, something gleaming in her dizzy eyes.

“Even when it doesn’t belong to you, you can still feel it, Impressive indeed…The one who made this is a genius!”

He then remembered Chalmers, and then his other friends, letting out a long sigh.

To think I did this behind their backs…

As he was lost in thought, Anesidora studied his arm, figuring out something in the end and placing one hand on his shoulder, and just like that, she pulled his arm out of his body with one shot, making Bardon widen his eyes and let out a sharp shout of pain while Anesidora watched amusingly.

“Oh, I am so sorry! Didn’t mean to cause you so much pain!”

She chuckled a little, while Bardon felt like someone stabbed him with a knife on his shoulder, after all, Chalmers removed his arm after making sure to disable the connected neurons, such a brusque move made by Anesidora gave him a strong shock wave of pain.

“Hyde is gonna be so interested, now, let's study this beautiful arm before turning to your body!”

“In your dreams, Anesidora…”

Came the voice of another woman from behind that approached them, her poisonous green telson gleaming from afar, making Anesidora lift one brown.

“Kara, what are you doing here?”

“Can’t you see? I am claiming this test subject as mine!”

It was at that moment that Anesidora felt irritated.

“I already claimed him, go and search for another one."

Upon sensing her irritation, Kara couldn’t help but grin maliciously, showing her pointy teeth, while looking at Bardon.

“Why should I, when there is one already?”

Bardon, who gave up to his pain, wondered whether he ended up in the underworld with two demons fighting over him, or if it was just a nightmare he would wake up from, at least, that's what he hoped for.
In the middle of their fight, they received a sudden call in the room, as Anesidora answered it, the holographic image of an upset Sander appeared in front of them.

“The time you both waste on arguing could have been used for something beneficial.”

"Mr. Sander!"

"Commander, you know very well of my good expertise when it comes to body organs."

Said Kara in an attempt to convince him, making Bardon shiver, while Sander had something in mind.

"I don't care, you two are collaborating on this if you want this test subject."

It was at that moment that both of them looked at him in disbelief pointing to each other.

"Collaborating?!"

"With her?!"

"Not gonna happen in a million years!!"

The last bit came from the both of them at the same time, making Sander greet his teeth.

"THEN FORGET ABOUT HIM!!!"

The mere echoing shout made the two ladies go silent, intimidating Bardon as well, who was thinking about what he got himself into.

"Stop acting like possessive kids and be useful to each other, you are colleagues, besides, I need the both of you for an important mission, the test subject can wait."

They let out a sigh of irritation, before just nodding to him, with Anesidora taking the arm with her to lock it down, already arguing with Kara on their way and fighting over it, it wasn’t until they were totally gone, that Sander, who hasn’t ended the call yet, kept looking at an uneasy Bardon.

"Are you stupid? Coming to the enemy's den?"

"I just…wanted to see my brother"

"You are not the only one who lost a sibling of the union, what gives you the privilege to do this idiotic act?"

He was met with an ashamed silence from Bardon who couldn’t find the words to say as If he was facing his scolding commander, making Sander sigh.

"Who am I to ask you anyway, you came here, you pay the price."

"And this is what I am willing to do…"

And it was the last response before Sander cut the call, making a tired and guilty Bardon stare at the ceiling.

“I trusted an enemy, helped him escape jail, betrayed the esper union, and failed to even talk to my own brother, and now I am a test subject…I hate myself…”

—--

He was sitting there on his desk, a lit cigarette resting between his thin lips, before Leon and Freddy, who were summoned by him, stood right in front of him.

“Sir, you called for us.”

Said Leon, waiting for a response.

“Hm, yes I did.”

He lets out a big blow, going silent for a moment, before his lips part.

“So, the intruder was caught.”

“Yes, sir.”

It took Sander some time, before adding while looking at Leon.

“From what I know, he is your disciple’s brother, am I right?”

Leon nodded to his question before Sander let out another smoke.

“What do you think he will do after knowing his brother was a test subject, and you hid it from him?”

Somehow, Leon couldn’t help but think of a sad Hall, after all, he knew he missed his brother and still loved him.

“He will be…upset.”

“And do you want him to be upset?”

He kept thinking about it, somehow, he couldn’t bear the thought of Hall being sad.

“No.”

Sander nodded, before looking at Freddy with his intense red eyes.

“You.”

The big wolf flustered, almost dropping his shades.

“Y-yes!”

“Aren’t you free because he helped you?”

“Hey, he wanted to see his brother! and I was supposed to be his guide before Leon changed the plan!”

Leon looked at him, lifting one brow.

And now this mad dog is throwing the responsibility at me…

“And those glasses, they look expensive…”

“Oh yes, they are so cool!! He gave them to me for free!”

Blurted Freddy out looking stupidly happy, before Sander grinned.

“And you still stabbed him in the back, right?”

The big wolf flinched at his words, looking elsewhere to avoid Sander’s piercing gaze.

“So, let me ask you two something.”

He took some time before letting out another blow of smoke slowly as If he was enjoying it.

“Is there any will to save him?”

The two went silent, not knowing exactly how to respond to such a question that felt like a test, upon sensing their hesitation, Sander looked at them with a reassuring gaze.

“It's alright, you can be honest.”

Needless to say, the first who fell to it was Freddy.

“Ahh yeah…but I can’t do it coz I will get fired and won’t be able to pay for Chole’s salon!!”

Sander frowned at him in disbelief.

Is this all you care about…

But he lets out a sigh, looking now at Leon, who knew he had to answer him, letting out a little sigh.

“Well, Hall still cares about his brother.”

He went silent for a moment after listening to that.

“Alright then.”

He then got back to his chair, taking a seat, before giving them a sided little grin, opening his arms.

“I didn’t see anything.”

Leon looked at him totally surprised, before smiling a little, nodding at him, while a confused Freddy was turning his head to the both of them.

“Huh? Didn’t see what?”

“You will understand everything, follow me.”

Said Leon before Sander dismissed them; blowing the last puff of smoke and resting the cigar on the ashtray.

Easier than I thought it would be…

—----

He was staring at the ceiling, feeling quite dizzy, thinking about his last moments, until he heard a voice calling him by his name he blinked twice, turning his heavy head slowly and squinting his eyes while looking into the source of the voice.

“Hall?”

It wasn't until he blinked twice and shook his head that he realized his brother was indeed looking at him in concern.

“Are you…real? Or am I hallucinating?”

Said Bardon before sliding one hand on Hall’s head, as if to check it himself.

“I knew from Leon that you came all this way for me..”

It came out in his usual shy voice that Bardon knew very well, making him realize it was all real before he nodded with a bitter smile.

“Yes, I wanted to see you…at least before they use me."

Somehow, and despite their past disagreement, Hall couldn’t see his brother like that, frowning apologetically.

“You need to get out of here, We are saving you.”

Bardon looked confused for a moment, about to say something before Hall started loosening the belts tying him down to the bed, using his Esper senses, he then tried to turn off the machine but didn’t know how to do it because of his poor vision, it wasn’t until Leon came right that moment after activating the emergency option, resting his hand on Hall's one.

“It's alright, leave it to me, Hall.”

The young man couldn’t help but smile warmly at Leon before he gave him the sign to have a word with his brother, to which Hall nodded.

“I’ll be waiting at the nearby entrance, make sure to be quick before the place gets wrecked.”

And just when Leon took off, the two brothers stayed silent for some time, before Bardon smiled at Hall a little.

“How have you been?”

“Uhm..good…”

“You are still as shy as ever!”

said Bardon With a while as he patted the other's head, before another silence was shared between the two, and Bardon felt like trying for the last time.

“I missed you so much…words aren’t enough to express how sad I am without you, please…get back…”

Despite feeling touched by his brother’s words, he shook his head.

“No…I can’t, I have my life now…”

Somehow, Bardon predicted it, but instead of being the overprotective brother he has always been, he just smiled sadly.

“At least, you are safe, and that's what matters to me, take care, Hall.”

It's okay…let him go…

He was about to go Leon’s way before Hall grabbed his arm all of a sudden, making a surprised Bardon turn around, only to find a warm expression on his face.

“I don’t hate you…I never did, I just…wanted to be independent and find my own path…”

Bardon went silent for a moment after listening to these words, before looking at him with a warmer smile now, grabbing him for a sudden hug that took Hall off guard.

“I love you too…never forget that…”

When was the last time he ever felt this emotional? Hall couldn't remember, tears formed in the corner of his eyes, remembering all the memories of him and his brother, and how much he sacrificed for his sake, hugging him back.
It wasn’t until the alert siren was finally released, indicating the room was about to be destroyed, that Bardon patted Hall’s shoulder, the latter finally smiling.

“Bardon, take care..”

And just how much he missed that pure smile of his brother, smiling back.

“You too, Hall.”

He then turned around immediately heading toward Leon before taking a last look at his brother, only to find him gone.

Goodbye…

And just when they got out of the room, Leon gave him a sided look while running with him.

“Are you satisfied now?”

“Not really…But this is not about me, it's about Hall. If he is happy, surrounded by people who treasure him, then I am happy too.”

He looked at Leon.

“Thank you for taking care of Hall....”

“Don’t mention it, He is important to me.”

“As you are to him, I am sure…”

He said with a faint smile, before Leon received a call, letting out a sigh.

“It seems like the intruder is very close…alright, I will leave Bardon to you.”

“Hm?”

Bardon looked confused as he saw Leon looking somewhere as if addressing someone, before a huge silhouette came from the shadows, sharp teeth gleaming and a pair of eyes shining in the darkness.

“Alright!”

And it was at that moment that Bardon looked surprised.

“Freddy!”

The big wolf couldn’t help but laugh.

“Missed me already, twink? Well, guess what? I’ll be the one leading the way now!”

He said as If telling Bardon how fortunate he actually was before Leon shook his head

“Stop bragging and get him out of here, the tunnel is about to be destroyed too.”

“Roger that!”

He then left the two and took another risky way out, while the two ran toward the far exit, the wolf grinned.

“Have you got any idea how many likes I got for the sunglasses you have given me? 500 IN ONE DAY! And to think Unky Chai noticed me!”

The big wolf burst laughing in joy, but received no response from Bardon, turning his head around to see what's the matter, only to find him upset, lifting one brow.

“Hey, why so silent all of a sudden?”

It took Bardon some time before he looked at him with a deep frown.

“You betrayed me!”

Freddy flinched at that statement, scratching his cheek, and just when he was about to open his mouth, he got interrupted by an angry Bardon.

“You didn’t stick to your word! All this time I thought you were genuine but it was all an act! you stabbed me in the back! I can’t even look you in the face!!!”

The big wolf didn’t even know how to respond before he noticed that Bardon missed an arm.

HOLY SHIT!!

He felt more guilty now, lowering his ears.

“Hey Bardon…I…”

It wasn't until he heard the sound of a silent sob, turning his gaze to him again, only to find Bardon crying.

“All this time…I have been putting up a strong facade and a bright smile, playing the mighty hero who helps everyone to feel good about his own life, only to realize…I am nothing but a pathetic loser who couldn’t even stop his brother from going away…”

Bardon felt his heart sinking, before realizing it was actually his mistake.

“You did nothing wrong…it was me who was too desperate, just let me die here I can’t even face the union…”

He stopped in his tracks, tears flowing nonstop, wearing a tired facial expression, and just when he was about to look at the wolf that he found him grabbing him for a hug.

“No! I-I should be the one who is sorry man!! I did you dirty…”

Bardon widened his eyes as he didn’t expect such a reaction from the big wolf, before he slowly and hesitantly rolled his arms around the other’s large waist, somehow, the mere sensation of his fury chest against his head made him feel at ease.

“You freed me and gave me the best sunglasses that ever existed!”

He smiled trying to cheer him up, before looking away embarrassed.

“And you were…really nice to me, I kinda like you…”

He said scratching his cheek, giving Bardon a sided look who was looking at him surprised, before finally smiling warmly, adding to Freddy’s embarrassment.

“Wh-what?”

“I knew you were good deep down…”

Again, if it wasn’t for his fur, Freddy’s face could be seen all crimson now, he then cleared his throat, pushing Bardon a little.

“Alright alright, we get it! let's move our asses already!”

Bardon nodded with a smile, before the both of them ran toward the exit, feeling like he was slowly getting back to his usual cheerful self.

“Can you believe Hall missed me?! He even became more handsome! I wonder if he got a girlfriend!”

Freddy was so close to rolling his eyes in irritation and saying ‘Here we go again’, but he didn’t want to hurt Bardon’s feelings, so he just grinned.

“More like a boyfriend! That emo is gay as fuck!!”

The blond man looked at him quite surprised.

“Really?!”

“Oh please! Have you seen the way he looks at Poker Face? It's like he wants to jump on him anytime! Not that innocent after all ahahahaha!!!”

He bursted laughing, while Bardon thought about it.

Yeah…these two had something going on…well, at least he got someone to look after him.

Somehow, the pain on his armless shoulder slowly got back, making him flinch, something that grabbed Freddy’s attention.

“Hey man, you in pain?”

“It's nothing, don't worry about me…”

He could notice how visibly tired he was, his eyelids were dark and his face looked pale and sweaty, Bardon was hardly walking while grabbing on his shoulder in pain, it was at that moment that Freddy had an idea in mind.

Without any further ado, he bent down, rolling his arm around Bardon’s waist who looked at him confused, be he lifted him, resting his waist on his broad shoulder and facing his back, while the other widen his eyes.

“F-Freddy!!”

“How about you stop acting like a dumb hero and enjoy being saved by big boy Freddy!!”

He was too tired to even protest against the huge wolf who burst out laughing, running with all his might, until he noticed something.

“By the way.” Freddy added, grinning “Nice ass!!”

He said as he gave it a playful slap with his big hand, while Bardon's face was about to explode of heat.

Did he just…SLAP MY BUTT??

He then tried to hold himself together, thinking it was something normal between friends.

“You-You’ve got a nice one too! I bet your package is even better!!”

He was smiling for a moment before he realized the embarrassing things he just said, and now it was Freddy’s turn to be shocked, making a flustered Bardon whose face was about to explode rush to explain.

“D-don’t mind me…I-It's the drug effect…”

“Y-Yeah…”

They both decided it was best to just shut up, with Freddy getting near the exit, and Bardon losing himself slowly.

So warm and cozy, when was the last time I felt so much at ease…

He then let sleepiness take him over, while Freddy jumped for the late time toward the outside, watching the place getting totally wrecked behind him.

"Phew Finally! I thought I was going to be buried alive!"

He blinked twice as he didn't receive any response.

"Bardon?"

He widened his eyes, grabbing the sleeping young man between his arms and shaking him, only to find him breathing, realizing he actually slept, letting out a sigh of relief.

"Damn! You scared the shit out of me! Don't expect me to carry you like a sleeping baby between my arms-WHAT THE!"

"LET GO OF HIM!!!"

Said someone as he shot Freddy multiple times with his bright arrows while the wolf avoided them carrying Bardon, the attacks were getting more successive he almost got hit, it wasn't until the person showed himself, and it was none other than a furious Lucas.

"Give Bardon back, or I will kill you!!!"

Hey, he is of the union, give him his friend back, and let's end this.

And it was the stranger Leon was talking about through his vocal message to Freddy, who couldn't help but grin, putting Bardon down.

"Haha, you sure talk big, pussy! He is yours!"

Lucas came rushing to an unconscious Bardon, noticing how he missed his arm, growling at Freddy.

"You!!! What did you do to him!"

"How about you ask the mad scientist instead !"

He then looked at Bardon for the last time, somehow, his cocky expression changing slowly into a concerned one.

"Hey, If I were you…I wouldn't waste one minute to take him to the hospital, the guy is suffering."

And just like that, the wolf faced the young man with his back, leaving them behind, while Lucas looked at Bardon apologetically.

"You've been through a lot my dear friend…I am so sorry…"

And so, he carried him on his back, rushing back to the union.

—---

He was slowly regaining consciousness, opening his eyes a little and looking at the ceiling, only for a familiar face to pop out.

"HE IS AWAKE!"

Said a crying Mona who was jumping out of happiness, making all of his friends gather around him, that's when he realized he was finally home, smiling faintly.

“Everyone…”

“Have you got any idea how worried we were about you?”

“You almost gave us a heart attack!!!”

Said both Lucas and David, making Bardon chuckle.

“I am sorry for making you this worried…”

Needless to say Chalmers, who was there, noticed the missing arm, shaking his head.

“Seems like I need to make you a new one…”

Bardon couldn't help but remember how Anesidora took it off quickly, feeling a shiver down his spine, before sighing.

“I am sorry man…I promise you I will take great care of it next time…”

In the middle of the commotion his friends started as they asked him about the details of what happened, someone came through the door, with his steady steps.

"May I have a word with Bardon?"

And it was at that moment that everyone went silent, feeling intimidated by Commander Falken who gave them a sharp gaze that made them all nod at the same time, leaving the room, while Bardon felt very ashamed, rushing to explain.

"Commander! I am so sorry! I am ready to take any punishment you cast upon me sir! I-I did something I shouldn't have done no matter what and I deserve to be dead–"

“Don’t tell them about what happened, they think Freddy took you by force, even Lucas.”

Replied Falken instantly, while Bardon looked at him surprised, before nodding a little, a moment of silence was shared between the two as Falken approached the window slowly, looking at the outside view.

"Did you see him?"

"Yeah…"

"How is he?"

"He is…good…"

The commander nodded, looking at a lonely bird resting on its nest, staying silent for some time before his lips parted.

"What you have done was reckless."

A guilty Bardon couldn’t respond to that before Falken proceeded.

"But I understand where you are coming from, I lost someone dear to my heart to the shadow decree, despite how many years pass by, I can't seem to get over his absence, he left a huge gap no one would ever fill, that sometimes…I get the crazy urge to chase after him, thinking maybe…he would change his mind…"

He couldn't believe he was seeing such a side of Commander Falken himself, remembering for a moment what David said about him smiling warmly at the memory of a certain person, wondering who that would be before the other man continued.

"Some people…are meant to leave you, whether you like it, or not, and if you truly love them, you should let them go, just like a bird you refuse to keep inside a cage, only to see it setting its wings freely…"

Commander…

Bardon went silent, looking at him sadly, while the older of the two kept looking at the lonely bird, hoping for something to happen, until another one joined it, his lips twitching subtly upwards.

"I believe you learned your lesson, and that's enough punishment."

The younger of the two nodded to his commander's words.

"Yeah, but I don't mind, at least, I saw him smiling, and that's more than enough for me…."

Said Bardon with a faint smile, remembering Freddy too and how much fun they had together.

Maybe…it wasn't that bad…

Falken just nodded to him, before simply taking his leave without adding any words, grabbing his communicator to send Sander a final message.

He is back, thank you so much for your help, I owe you this one.

He simply said, not expecting any response, only for him to receive a phone call that moment that made him lift his brow, answering immediately without seeing the name as a habit.

"Congratulations, your precious subordinate is back to you."

And that's when Falken widened his eyes.

Sander!

"And now, let's see how you will be paying me…"

He couldn't help but look down, thinking that he probably did something he shouldn't have done.

Please, Don't ask for the impossible…

Sander couldn't help but grin at his silence, thinking he might be regretting it by now before he decided to just blurt it out.

"Would you have dinner with me?"

It was at that moment that Falken blinked in surprise.

"What?"

"I am serious, I want you back, as ridiculous as it might sound to you, I mean it, the last interaction made me realize how much I missed you, you left a gap in my life no one could fill."

He then added, his grin fading away, as he was being more honest with him, if not vulnerable.

"Don't get me wrong, you can still say no, I did all of this wholeheartedly, just for you, and I expect nothing in return."

He still…wants me!

"Y-yeah…"

It came out as a whisper, making Sander blink twice.

"Hm? I can't hear you-"

"I said yes! Decide the time and the place you like! I will be all yours!"

Sander couldn't help but look surprised at such a straightforward reply coming from Falken, before chuckling satisfyingly as if he came out triumphant.

"Very well…"

He then wanted to go a little further, talking in his deep hoarse voice.

"Don't forget to wear the jewelry I have given you long ago, I am sure you still keep them, they suit you."

He could feel his blush already, before chuckling shyly.

"You…"

And it was that warm smile again, the one made for Sander.