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Chapter Text

K.HJ

X759.06.28

Everything went to hell the second their broadcast went up. Chaos erupted within seconds which was expected. They had a full proof plan, but so did the government. 

"They're...right behind...me." San's breathless voice said through the ear piece. "I don't think I can lose them."

"I'm almost to the van." Seonghwa announced, Hongjoong relieved to hear one of his teammates was almost to safety. 

It wasn't supposed to happen like this. They were supposed to disrupt the broadcast and then safely get back to base. All of them were. Just like every other mission.

"We've got a problem." Yunho entered the conversation. "There's a group headed for the van and San is still pretty far out." 

Gunfire echoed through the comm, Hongjoong's legs unable to stop bouncing where he sat as his heart sank deep in his chest. It wasn't the first time he heard those sounds but it always struck fear. 

"San?"

"Don't worry, I'm-Ah!"

"San?"

The gunfire has stopped, Hongjoong hating the silence which filled the anxious space. From his spot in the back Hongjoong could see Jongho's knuckles turning white around the steering wheel.

"San?" It was Wooyoung's voice this time, Hongjoong relieved to hear from someone new. 

Bang!

The back doors of the van flew open, Hongjoong flinching at the sudden noise. Seonghwa hopped in quickly, Hongjoong hearing the echoing shouts of officials approaching their level of the parking garage.

"Jongho, we have to go!" Seonghwa ordered, closing the back doors of the van. 

"But-"

"They're almost here."

"What about the rest of the group?"

"Wooyoung, where are you!" Hongjoong asked, motioning Jongho to start moving. He hoped they could meet Wooyoung outside somewhere. They could pick him up and then hopefully San too.

"I'm inside, I'm still looking for Yeosang." Wooyoung replied, his voice a hushed whisper as if he were hiding.

Yeosang...

Hongjoong hadn't even noticed the other's absence, too caught up in everything else that was picked up over their comm system. They'd left him in the broadcasting room in hopes that he'd be able to make a distraction and then flee in time. 

"Wooyoung, you might want to get out of there or you're gonna get cornered." Yunho advised, his usual calm tone wavering slightly. 

"I can't leave without Yeosang."

"Wooyoung, get outside! That's an order!" Hongjoong demanded, not wanting to lose anyone else during this mission. 

San was down, Yeosang was lost, and Wooyoung was still in that damned building. 

"I can't jus-fuck!"

"What is it? Wooyoung, you have to get out of there." Seonghwa ordered. 

Gunfire suddenly pierced the ears of everyone in the van, Jongho quickly stepping hard on the gas.

Hongjoong's body was almost thrown to the back of the van, the group desperately trying to leave now that they were in line of fire.

"Wooyoung? Yeosang? San?" Seonghwa kept calling out, sitting across from Hongjoong. 

They'd left three behind. That wasn't part of their plan, their motto, their morals. They were all supposed to go in together and come out together. 

"Don't fucking touch me!" Wooyoung's voice suddenly erupted in his ear.

"Wooyoung?" Hongjoong spoke quick.

"They-hmpf-They got me." Wooyoung spoke, Hongjoong able to tell from the uneven breathing that he was fighting back. A few curses from strangers making it through. "Get your fucking hands-Yeosang!"

"Yunho, do you see anything?" Hongjoong asked, trying to see what the younger could from the cameras.

"I'm locked out of the system. They found out I was watching." Yunho replied, the frantic sounds of keyboard keys being pressed coming through.

"Stop! Let him go! Don't you dare-ah!" The sound of a static was heard before the line went dead again. That would be the last message they received from the trio.

Hongjoong felt a heavy weight in his chest and stomach as he glanced out the back windows of the van. They messed up. No, he messed up. The plan was supposed to work, but there was something he missed. Something he overlooked. 

The government was waiting for them to make their move first. 

וווו

P.SH

X760.06.30

For a year the group of five had to cope with the unknown existence of their captive group members. Each day held constant reminders of their absence only seemed to hurt more with time.

Yeosang's personal journal remained where he left it on one of the living room side tables, none of them daring to touch it in case he were to ever enter through the door again. They knew Yeosang valued privacy and they respected that despite their curiosity every time he'd spend long minutes writing something down under dim lamp light. Seonghwa recalled the younger writing something down before their last mission together, Yeosang seemingly unable to finish because of Hongjoong's constant ushering because they were "running behind schedule".

Wooyoung's old camera remained in the corner of their planning room. Most of the photos were hung up on the wall because Wooyoung had insisted that seeing the fun times they had would boost morale. Some photos were still scattered across the small table by the camera, the younger wanting to hang them up after their mission. Unfortunately, that never happened, and none of them had the heart to continue what was Wooyoung's hobby. Seonghwa would go over from time to time to look back on the memories though.

San's prized stuffed animal was still on the worn down couch in the living room, still facing the screen where it watched movies while San napped. Every few hours Shiber seemed to move around Base, San setting it up as if it were sentient at times. Much like a child would play make believe, San seemed to like treating Shiber as though it were an actual dog...a friend. Seonghwa was tempted to move the stuffed dog to the younger's bedroom but he couldn't bring himself to tear it away from the place San last was. 

The worst reminder was the silence they'd receive whenever they'd call out their names. Sometimes it was out of instinct to say one of their names, and for the first month or two, it was a stab to the heart to not hear their voice or see their face whenever their name was called. Seonghwa had cried the first few times it happened. He didn't think silence could ever hurt so bad.

Things were finally beginning to calm and the group of five was getting more comfortable with the absence, but if course the government didn't want them to get too comfortable.

It was usual for the group to watch every broadcast the New World casted on televisions everywhere. They needed to keep up on what was going on so they could plan out their schemes. They never predicted that a familiar face would be broadcasted to be crucified in front of an audience made up of the "government's dogs". That's all those masked men in white were. Obedient dogs.

Two men in white hoisted San up by his arms, his bound wrists raised above his head as they hung the rope on a nail high on a wooden post. Seonghwa couldn't look away from the screen as they watched San dangle limply in front of the audience. San's lip was busted, his right eye bruised while his nose was bleeding and most likely broken. He was dressed in the same clothes he wore when they lost him, but now they were tattered and dirtied. The fight that was usually in him was long gone, Seonghwa wondering what exactly he had endured in captivity. It made him wonder if Wooyoung and Yeosang were still alive or if they were silenced in less of a spectacle way. Seonghwa began to blame himself more and more. He was supposed to be with Wooyoung all the way to the end of the mission, but Seonghwa made the decision to split up. He just wanted to cover more ground, he didn't think things would go as hellish as they did. 

The words coming from the announcer were muffled for the most part to Seonghwa. He didn't care what the government had to say. It was all bullshit anyway. They knew the truth, yet the world failed to see. The rebellion was growing in numbers slowly, but it still wasn't enough. Civilians were still brainwashed into thinking that the government had their best interests in mind. 

"They...they aren't actually gonna kill him...right?" Mingi asked, his eyes unmoving from the screen as a gun was revealed in a man in white's hand. 

Seonghwa wanted to say "no", but he knew the reality. They would make sure Ateez got the message. That the world got the message. 

Feeling a tug at the sleeve of his jacket, Seonghwa glanced down to see Hongjoong had the fabric tightly bunched in his fist. His own silent way of finding reassurance...stability. 

The barrel of the gun was aimed at San, Seonghwa feeling his heart drumming in his ears. It took a lot not to yell at the television for San to fight back. The younger couldn't leave the world in this way. He didn't deserve such...mockery. 

Tears pooled at the corners of his eyes, Seonghwa still unable to look away. He wanted to. He wanted to deny the reality he was seeing, yet he couldn't let San die alone. If he couldn't be there physically, the least he could do was watch and hope that San knew they did the best they could to try and save the three of them. 

Bang! 

The sound was deafening and surreal despite it being heard everyday. Never had he wished the silence had remained.

Gripping the back of the couch, Seonghwa blinked a few times as the room spun. San's body was unmoving as his shirt was turning a deep crimson. Based on the area of blood, San was either already dead or would bleed out soon enough. The thought made him sick. 

Jongho was the first to leave the room, slamming his bedroom door before letting out a guttural scream. Seonghwa didn't blame him, in fact, he wanted to join the youngest in his pain but he was frozen in place, years running down his cheeks. 

Yunho was quick to comfort Mingi on the couch, but Seonghwa could tell Yunho was struggling to keep himself together. 

Hongjoong stormed out second, his mumbles of frustration following him out the base doors. Seonghwa wanted to follow him out and assure him things were going to be okay, but he wasn't a good liar. If anything, his eyes would give him away. 

Using the back of his hands, Seonghwa wiped his tears, still stuck in place. They couldn't give up because of this. They had to keep going. Wooyoung and Yeosang could still be alive and waiting for them. The government might make a spectacle of their deaths too. They had to make a move. 

Chapter Text

J.WY

X761.07.10

Cold winds from the north didn't make it unbearable to be outside in a sleeveless shirt, but it was a little uncomfortable if the goosebumps sticking to his arms was anything to go by. Call it laziness but Wooyoung didn't really feel like going all the way back to grab a sweatshirt. It wasn't like he really minded the small bit of suffering, it reminded him he was still-

A soft warmth wrapped itself around Wooyoung's shoulders, the dark haired boy allowing his eyes to follow the new presence.

"You'll catch a cold if you stay out here dressed like that." Seonghwa chided, sitting beside Wooyoung under an old oak tree. "You also forgot this."

Glancing down as the older offered a black, leather case to him, Wooyoung smiled as he grabbed hold of his camera.

"Not much to take pictures of out here." Wooyoung pointed out, knowing the autumn season was coming to a close and most animals would either be hibernating or wouldn't come out until the sun was down.

A mischievous grin tugged at Seonghwa's lips, the older slowly pulling off his coat. "Then I guess I'll have to get creative."

Wooyoung raised a suggestive brow as he watched the older slowly undress beside him. This wasn't a new thing. A lot of the members didn't mind being photographed in the nude especially if it was Wooyoung taking those photos. They knew it would be kept safe in a secret folder that only Wooyoung knew it's whereabouts. A secret between only him and whoever was with him at the time.

Bringing up the old camera, Wooyoung located his boyfriend in the viewfinder. Admiring the older's beauty under the setting sun, Wooyoung waited to press his finger down on the button for a few seconds. Noticing the other beginning to shift, Wooyoung quickly pressed down, the camera clicking as it captured the moment.

Shifting to a different angle, Wooyoung brought the camera back up to his face. He lined up his boyfriend in the viewfinder, capturing another photo. He noticed the older shiver as he brought the camera to his lap, a quiet chuckle leaving him.

"You'll catch a cold if you stay out here undressed like that." Wooyoung mocked lovingly, Seonghwa narrowing his eyes at the younger.

Before Wooyoung could say anything else, Seonghwa wrapped his hand around one of Wooyoung's wrists and pulled him into a deep kiss. The older's lips were already pretty cold and chapped against his own, but Wooyoung didn't mind. He was sure his own weren't much better.

Despite Seonghwa being quite the neat freak at base, when it came to anything romantic or sexual, the older could be quite messy. The kiss that started out gentle and stratigic, soon turned sloppy and wet as Seonghwa slipped his tongue into Wooyoung's mouth. Of course, Wooyoung never liked to make Seonghwa's life easy so he fought for dominance for a bit to annoy the older.

Pulling away, Seonghwa let his tongue run across Wooyoung's lips, as a way to tease but also to collect any saliva left over so it wouldn't run down Wooyoung's chin.

The older smirked, his gaze moving from Wooyoung's lips to his eyes. There was something much sharper and dark about the way Seonghwa looked at Wooyoung now. It was kind of scary how quickly Seonghwa's round and caring eyes could turn into sharp lust filled ones.

Running his hand up from Wooyoung's wrist, Seonghwa hummed. "Then you better warm me up."

Crashing their lips back together, Wooyoung worked his pants off. He really wasn't planning on having sex outside that day but he wasn't really going to complain.

Trailing his lips down Seonghwa's jaw to his neck, Wooyoung sucked and nibbled at his collarbone to leave his mark. As he continued to go lower, listening to Seonghwa's quiet, breathy moans, Wooyoung noticed quite a few other bruises littering his skin. Some were fading, Wooyoung recalling that Seonghwa and Mingi had spent the night together a few nights ago.

Moving lower, Wooyoung grabbed hold of the other's erection, giving a small lick to the tip.

Sucking in a sharp breath through his teeth, Seonghwa tangled his fingers into Wooyoung's hair. A harsh tug had Wooyoung moaning as he wrapped his lips around the head of Seonghwa's cock. The older kept a firm hold in his hair but allowed Wooyoung to set the pace. Normally Wooyoung would take his time but he was feeling rather eager as quiet praises began to leave Seonghwa's mouth.

"Right...right there." He moaned. "Mhmm, just like that."

Wooyoung did as he was told, his tongue massaging at the place Seonghwa seemed to enjoy most. Working up a lot of spit, Wooyoung pulled his mouth off of the older. He knew he should prep himself first, but he didn't mind a little pain. He just hoped he left enough saliva behind to help.

Moving to straddle Seonghwa, Wooyoung ignored the older's attempts at trying to prep him. He really just wanted to feel the other inside him, unable to remember the last time they had done something like this together.

Letting out a hiss as he sunk down on Seonghwa, Wooyoung tilted his head to the side as the older began to nip and suck at his neck.

"You okay?" Seonghwa asked against the other's skin.

"Mhmm." Wooyoung hummed out, still trying to keep some sense as the older filled him up.

Giving an experimental thrust, Seonghwa's eyes looked to Wooyoung for any sort of pain. The younger wiggled his hips, Seonghwa letting out a groan before thrusting a little harder, creating a rough pace. The sounds of their love making echoed through the trees, Wooyoung sure that the others at base would hear them if they stepped outside.

"Nng...right there. Feels so...mhmm...good..." Wooyoung moaned as the older's cock hit his most sensitive part inside.

Picking up the pace, Seonghwa brought his lips to Wooyoung's. Their mouths danced together, observing each other's sinful sounds.

"I...'m close." Wooyoung moaned out as he parted for air.

"Me too." Seonghwa groaned as his thrusts grew less rhythmic and more erratic.

Wooyoung's hands grinned at Seonghwa's shoulders as he came, the younger letting out a long and pleased moan as Seonghwa continued chase his own orgasm. A sudden warmth entered the younger, Wooyoung leaving a few lazy kisses along the side of Seonghwa's neck.

The two basked in the afterglow of what they had just done. Their chests heaved in and out as they caught their breath, Seonghwa bringing his forehead to Wooyoung's.

"I love you."

Bang!

The dark haired boy opened his eyes and swiped the knife from his nightstand, aiming it at the now open cell door. He didn't even flinch anymore, his body simply reacting as it was supposed to. No one stood in the doorway, Wooyoung knowing he was expected to follow routine.

Getting off of the narrow mattress, Wooyoung quickly changed. He slid on the black, baggy training pants along with a white, fitted tank. He strapped on the gun holster around his upper thigh, sliding his pistol inside. Tying his hair back as he left his room, Wooyoung headed for the cafeteria.

Usually his head was kept clear and alert but for some reason it was stuck on his dream. A thing that rarely ever happened to him anymore. He didn't need them. He had one purpose and one purpose alone. He didn't need things like dreams or useless emotions like love or lust. They only got in the way.

Grabbing a tray from the food line, Wooyoung made his way over to his usual spot. He began to eat the usual slop of food, his eyes honing in on the person who choose to sit across from him. The other didn't say anything as he ate, Wooyoung not expecting him to. Idle talk was meaningless.

"What have they done to you..." The voice spoke sadly, Wooyoung shifting his attention back to the boy across from him. Unlike Wooyoung, this boy had blonde hair, the sides buzzed but the rest kept a nice medium length. Hsu dark eyes were saddened by something as he gazed at Wooyoung. For some reason, the boy seemed oddly familiar. "Wooyoung, it's me...San."

San.

"I'm sorry, I don't recall knowing anyone with that name." Wooyoung replied stiffly as he continued to eat.

"Wooyoungie." The other frowned, his tone implying disappoint. "Is Yeosang here? I haven't-"

"If you have time for useless conversation, you should use it to finish your food." Wooyoung suggested, finishing up his own try of breakfast.

He stood before the other could get out another word, carrying the empty tray to place it where it'll be cleaned and used again.

He's alive.

San survived.

Inhaling deeply, Wooyoung ignored the throbbing in his head as he made his way to the training grounds. Others were already practicing. Strengthening themselves to be more useful for the New World Order. Just as they were meant to. As he was meant to.

Glancing around the large training area, Wooyoung's eyes locked on another familiar face. One he'd distantly recalled as being close to. The long haired blonde was practicing his hand to hand combat, something Wooyoung never had much interest in. He still practiced but he was much more handy with a gun.

Smirking to himself, Wooyoung wondered if he'd ever face the other in The Ring the next day. See just how far they'd come from the frightened and protective boys they once were. How far they'd come from being human.

וווו

J.YH

X760.07.10

Light was finally beginning to shine in the dark. After two years of endless searching, Yunho had finally secured a recording from one of the government facilities. To say Yunho was relieved at the time would be an understatement. A heavy weight on his heart was lifted upon getting a clear picture of Wooyoung and Yeosang's faces. He had to give himself a moment, staring a little longer at the images before rushing to tell the others.

They began to come up with a plan on the spot, needing their missing members back. While there was excitement, there was also sorrow knowing that only two of the three missing would ever be able to come back. That they could only ever hold two of the three they lost. That they could only see the smiles and hear the voices of two while the other would forever be locked in memories.

Three weeks of planning had gone by since, and the group decided they were going to strike when the New World had its monthly "friendly" competition. Ring Matches is what Yunho remembered they called them. A chance for soldiers to compete for higher rankings in the New World Brigade. Ateez was going to break in during this time and get their missing members out of whatever cells they were being held in.

Inhaling deeply, Yunho finally logged out of his computer. The rest of the group had gone to get some supplies, but Yunho wanted to stay back and study some more. He didn't want another mistake to be made this time around.

Spinning around in his chair, Yunho stopped when his eyes latched on to the journal next to his keyboard. Yunho had swiped it a long time ago from the table in the living room. If anyone noticed it missing, they didn't say anything. A lot of them did their best to try and forget. The days went by better that way, yet Yunho couldn't bring himself to even pretend everything was okay.

No one touched the camera lying idle in the planning room, and no one touched Shiber who was meticulously placed on the couch for optimal napping. Yunho was the one to take Yeosang's journal. At the time, Yunho didn't think any of the three survived so he wanted to know what exactly went on inside Yeosang's head. What they might've missed.

Some of the entries were exactly what Yunho expected them to be. Either very few words or random thoughts. Majority though, were different than what he expected them to be. Yeosang was never one to outwardly express his feelings with words. He was quiet about his love language, relying on small acts of kindness or even sometimes physical affection. So reading about how he really felt about the world around him made Yunho feel closer to him.

Knowing Yeosang was alive now, made Yunho feel a little guilty about reading something so personal but he was happy he would be able to understand the other more now.

Grabbing hold of the journal, Yunho flipped it open to where he left off. The pages were dated, which was a nice reference. Especially when it came to memories that Yunho recalled.

Knock, knock, knock.

Yunho closed the journal and hid it behind some of the binders he had on the desk, the door opening slowly.

"We're back." Seonghwa announced softly, his head poking into the room. He stepped in further, closing the door behind him. Seonghwa leaned back against it, his arms wrapping around his torso as he looked down to the floor as if he had something on his mind. "Hongjoong wants a group meeting in five."

Yunho nodded, standing up from his chair and walking over to Seonghwa. He grabbed Seonghwa's hands, intertwining their fingers as he unwrapped the older's arms from his body. "What's wrong?" Yunho asked, moving closer to Seonghwa, trapping the older against the door.

"What makes you think anything's wrong?" Seonghwa challenged with a smirk, meeting Yunho's eyes.

Yunho grinned, leaning his head closer to Seonghwa's. A light blush began to reach the older's ears and cheeks.

"If you don't want to talk about it, I won't pressure you." Yunho said, bringing his lips to Seonghwa's in a quick peck. "But, I think you're worried about getting our boys back."

"It's just...what if they think we've given up on them?" Seonghwa shared, his expression falling. "It's been two years, and we don't know what the New World has done to them."

Yunho gave Seonghwa's hand a gentle squeeze before bringing it up to his lips. He planted a kiss to the older's knuckles. "They both know how much they're loved, so I'm sure they know we're coming for them. No matter what has happened to them, we'll be there to heal it. We'll bring them back safe and sound and...things will go back to the way they were."

It was Yunho's turn to look guiltily to the floor at the lie at the end. He knew things would never go back to the way they were.

Seonghwa slipped one of his hands from Yunho's, bringing it up to cup the younger's cheek. His thumb rubbing over Yunho's cheek bone. "You don't have to lie to me, Yunho." He spoke gently. "You and I both know there will always be someone missing, and that's...that's okay. We'll always have our mem-"

Bang! Bang! Bang!

"Stop making out in there and join our group meeting!" Mingi called out from the other side of the door.

Seonghwa rolled his eyes with a sigh, Yunho stepping back with a chuckle. The older flung open the door, Mingi waiting with his arms crossed.

"For the record, we weren't making out." Seonghwa stated as the three headed for the planning room, Yunho patting Mingi's shoulder.

The three entered the planning room, Yunho noticing the way Hongjoong seemed to be deep in thought. His thumb and pointer finger were pinching the bridge of his nose while his slouched body swiveled slowly back and forth in the chair. His eyes were closed, tension clearly crinkling the skin on his forehead.

"Okay, were all here." Seonghwa announced, taking a seat at the table beside the youngest.

Hongjoong sat up in his chair, Yunho sitting beside Mingi.

"Great, there's a few things I want to talk about before the rescue mission tomorrow." Hongjoong stated. "Firstly, I want to express my concerns about what we might be expecting when we find Yeosang and Wooyoung. We can't assume they're going to be...the same as they were."

"We never assumed that anyway." Mingi mumbled, Yunho reaching over and grabbing his hand under the table. Pessimism was like a sinkhole for Mingi, easy to fall into and hard to pull back out once he was fully submerged. Yunho found that his presence helped Mingi a lot.

Whether or not Hongjoong heard Mingi's comment, the leader continued on. "I've gotten some word that prisoners of the New World are tortured and used in Ring Matches for certain soldiers to kill. I don't believe that Wooyoung and Yeosang are in this category since it's been years and they're still alive. However, they've probably been tortured mentally and physically, so don't expect them to be...happy to see us."

"Do you think they'll be able to recover?" Seonghwa asked quietly, the room falling silent.

"I'm...I'm sure they will." Hongjoong replied, though Yunho picked up on the way his eye twitched slightly. "Anyway...ahem...on to my next concern."

וווו

C.S

X760.07.10

He was supposed to be dead. Killed in front of millions to prove a point. Yet, somehow, San survived. Maybe it was because he still had more he needed to do in this life. Or maybe it was because someone on the inside had saved him?

Either way, San had woken up in a small room-like cell, a note folded neatly on the bedside table. It had some useful information on it.

San was to pretend to be assimilated to the rest of the soldiers in the New World Brigade if he wanted to continue to live. One misstep and they'd seriously kill him. No second chances.

A few rules of soldiers were listed next.

One, breakfast was at seven in the morning.

Two, training began at eight in the morning.

Three, showers were allowed between the hours of six and eight at night.

Four, curfew was at nine o'clock.

San learned that was only the basics. No one was there to teach him how to act. San never knew how much emotion he carried outwardly. He had been told by the others how loving he was, but he never really gave much of a second thought to it. Expressing his love and adoration was second nature to San, something he'd quickly realized on his first day out of that cell.

Everyone else was so...lifeless. No one spoke to each other unless it was an order or demand. No one seemed to smile or laugh unless it was because of pride or victory. No one even seemed to register pain. Or if they did, they hid it extremely well and continued on like a machine. Dealing with pain was the most difficult part. Pretending like the body wasn't screaming out for relief as a survival response was nearly impossible.

The first few times he had broken a couple bones, others stared at him as though something was wrong with him. Cries of pain weren't normal there, and San thought for sure that was going to be the end for him. Luckily, he was taken to the medical wing where he was treated by a machine or sorts. 

Surprisingly, officials and guards didn't seem to know San's face. They didn't recognize him as the one who had been shot for the world to see. The one who was part of the group trying to take them out from the inside. The one who was their biggest enemy. San had wondered why they didn't recognize him. His face was plastered on wanted posters throughout the city for years, but at this point, he knew better than to question it. As long as he could live this lie, he would until he could get help.

The hardest part of it all was seeing Wooyoung and Yeosang. It has been months before San first saw a glimpse of them and he knew instantly that they weren't the same. They're bodies were a lot more lean and muscular, bruises and a few bandages on various parts of their skin. Dark circles were under their eyes, Wooyoung's bottom lip split open. They were broken down to be nothing more than empty shells. Perfect soldiers for the brigade.

San had kept his distance up till now, not wanting to seem too suspicious. Everyday seemed to kill him more and more as he could only watch the two grow farther and farther apart from one another as if they'd never even known each other.

Since another round of Ring Matches were tomorrow, San decided now was the time to make a move and try talking with Wooyoung. He thought that breakfast would be the perfect time but apparently he was wrong. A part of San hoped Wooyoung would show some sort of recognition, but the younger didn't seem to remember him. He didn't even seem to want to remember San. The older could hear the sound of his heart breaking in his chest as he watched the younger walk away.

It almost was enough to discourage San from approaching Yeosang, but maybe the other wasn't as far gone?

Big mistake.

Back slamming against the mat, San gasped for air, a knee pressing down on his chest as his arms were pinned above his head. San stared up at the once familiar eyes. Now filled with an emptiness that killed. Not even a hint of joy about winning hidden inside like the other soldiers usually had.

San tapped what he could of his hand against the mat in quick succession. The older got off of him, not even offering a hand up. Yeosang just walked away, the scene feeling awfully familiar. San could feel an overwhelming wave of emotion tingling under his skin and making it hard to breathe. He could feel the tears threatening to pool at the corners of his eyes, but he inhaled deeply to suppress it.

I wish I knew what they did to you two. How I can help? Have you given up on being saved? Would you remember any of the others?

Another soldier in training entered his focus, challenging him to a match as if beating Yeosang was the way to the top. Which it was. Wooyoung and Yeosang weren't number one or two, but they were in the top ten rankings. That part never sat well with San. He knew Wooyoung and Yeosang could hold their own in a fight before, but they weren't the type for violence unless absolutely necessary. Now, they were nearly at the top of the New World Brigade. While San could easily beat many of the soldiers and join his friends, he didn't want too much attention brought to him. The middle rankings were his safe spot.

Agreeing to fight the other soldier, San took his position at the end of the mat opposite of his opponent. They waited for another to begin the match, San wanting to prove he wasn't completely weak after that previous loss.

Hearing the go-ahead, San stepped on to the mat. He could tell instantly that the man favored his right side and was just itching to make the first move. Letting the other do just that, San kept his mind calm as he dodged the first punch. With his body leaned to the side, San used the momentum to rebalance to send a punch to the other's side, under the ribcage. The soldier's body recoiled, but he showed zero expression that he was in any sort of pain. San took the opportunity to try and get another punch in, but a fist met with his left shoulder. Moving out of the impact zone, San made sure to stay on the mat. The soldier was still favoring his right side so San needed to think smart. The man was higher in weight class so San just needed to be more strategic.

Lunging forward, the other soldier tried throwing another punch, San blocking it. He kept his arms on front of his face as the other aimed there, San deciding the man didn't know how to use his legs.

Perfect.

Shifting his weight, San set up his stance while the other was distracted. Bringing his back leg forward and up, San sent a powerful kick to the soldier's abdomen. The force was enough to send the soldier stumbling back, San taking the opportunity to continue to aim for his open spots. He landed a punch to the other's cheek before kicking the other side, knocking the other's jaw out of place.

Not a single scream or tear.

Bringing his hands together, San brought his hands down hard to the top of the man's head, knocking him on to the mat. Straddling his back, San pinned the soldier's hands back, raising it to a point that a single struggle would break the man's arm or pop the shoulder out of socket.

Smack, smack, smack.

San released the man's arms and stood up. He walked off the mat, trying to ignore the stinging pain shooting up from his forearms and left shoulder.

A memory suddenly flashed across his mind, San smiling softly down at the ground. He knew exactly what would happen if the others saw him now. Seonghwa would be dressing his wounds while Hongjoong scolded him for fighting in the first place if it wasn't necessary. Mingi would ask for details and Yunho would probably just listen in and give pointers later when Hongjoong and Seonghwa weren't around.

A tear fell from San's cheek before he could even register he was starting to cry. He quickly wiped the rest away, inhaling and exhaling deeply.

You can do this. They're going to come back for you. Even if they think I'm dead, they'll be back. Things will be...okay.

וווו

P.SH

X760.07.11

"San!" Seonghwa shouted, as his body shot up in bed. His muscles were tense and his breathing was shallow and unsteady. His eyes glanced around the dark room before he swallowed hard. San's execution still haunted his nights. Even after a year, Seonghwa was lucky if the event didn't show up in his sleep.

Tap. Tap.

The door slowly creaked open, Jongho poking his head inside the room. His eyes were barely open and his hair was a mess.

"Another nightmare?" The youngest asked, his voice scratchy from sleep.

Seonghwa nodded, trying his best to calm himself down.

"Want me to stay with you?" Jongho offered, entering the room and closing the door behind him. They both knew the answer was going to be "yes" anyway. Seonghwa wasn't quite sure why they didn't just share a room at this point since Jongho was practically there every night.

Moving over to make space for the younger, Seonghwa checked the clock. It was one in the morning. Only eight hours before their rescue mission began.

Adjusting the sheets, Jongho finally settled in beside Seonghwa. The older moved closer now, bringing his arm and leg over the younger as his head rested on the other's chest. Jongho wrapped his arm around Seonghwa pulling him closer. Despite their height difference, Jongho had this way of making Seonghwa feel smaller.

"Are you nervous too?" Jongho asked, his fingers gently beginning to massage the older's scalp.

"Yeah, I am." Seonghwa breathed out. "But we're going to be fine. We're going to rescue Wooyoung and Yeosang and then we're all going to come home."

Seonghwa could feel Jongho's chin lightly tap the top of his head as he nodded in response, the two falling quiet. Inhaling deeply, Seonghwa took in Jongho's presence, feeling safe and grounded. The fog left over from the nightmare was barely left.

A soft chuckle filled the dark, Seonghwa moving his head to look up at Jongho. "What are you thinking about?"

"I'm just reminiscing." Jongho replied. "Remember when Yeosang accidently spilled his drink all over one of Wooyoung's old cameras?"

Seonghwa smiled at the memory. Wooyoung had just gotten really into photography and had a few different cameras for his collection when Yeosang accidently knocked his drink over on the table. It flooded one of the cameras and Yeosang's expression was priceless. From the outside, Seonghwa could see how sorry Yeosang was in his silence and how hard Wooyoung was trying not to lose to anger in his silence. "Wooyoung was trying so hard not to yell at Yeosang."

"I have to give him credit, he managed to hold it in." Jongho replied. "If it had been anyone else, he wouldn't have held back."

"To be fair, if any of us yelled at Yeosang, Wooyoung would attack us." Seonghwa chuckled, his mind still replaying the memory. "Didn't San have to pull him from the room?"

Jongho nodded. "Yeah, they left and didn't come back for a few hours. Yeosang ended up leaving a picture of him pouting and an apology note at Wooyoung's door with an apple on it."

The two fell quiet again, Seonghwa growing sad the more the reminisced. It used to be the thing to keep him hopeful but now it was tainted with sadness. Things wouldn't be like that anymore. They'd have to make changes and adjust but it wouldn't be the same. Seonghwa hoped part of it would return with time, but that's all that would ever return. Just part.

Feeling Jongho tighten his hold around him, Seonghwa did the same. He was happy the others were still around. He was grateful no one else was lost. He was-

Warm lips pressed against the top of Seonghwa's head, stopping the rambling thoughts beginning to fester.

"Don't tell Wooyoung, but I might've used his camera film to leave some new photos for him." Jongho admitted, still combing his fingers through Seonghwa's hair. "I'm sure he'll appreciate them later."

"Well, if he gets upset that someone touched his camera, we can blame Hongjoong." Seonghwa replied, enjoying this little play pretend.

"I think blaming Mingi might be more fun." Jongho teased.

"Sure, but last time they had a dispute, Mingi practically choked him out." Seonghwa reminded, wanting to stay in the lie that their missing lovers would still be the same.

"He'll be fine." Jongho insisted. "Besides, it would give Yeosang something new to write about in his journal."

"I doubt Yeosang needs anything new to write. He knows enough as it is." Seonghwa argued, clinging to Jongho tighter as tears began to pool under his eyes. He wanted to believe this would happen. That his friends were still the same people. That they were unharmed by the cruel people who believed that these emotions were a disease that needed to be eradicated.

"They're going to be okay." Jongho said as if he could read the older's mind. "We're all going to be okay. In together, out together. All of us this time."

Seonghwa nodded, wishing that the last part was going to be true.

Chapter Text

C.JH

X760.07.11

Silence had consumed the group throughout the morning which was understandable. With tensions running high, Jongho couldn't find any words to say. The only thing they could do was mentally prepare for what was to come.

The streets of the city were empty for the most part. The only other vehicles on the road were business or government related. Luckily, their van was disguised to blend in. No one would spare them a glance especially since it was the day of Ring Matches. The perfect distraction.

Approaching Sector One, Jongho did his best not to dwell on the way his stomach was doing flips. They could do this.

"This morning I spotted Yeosang and Wooyoung's presence in The Ring." Yunho shared, turning the wheel to steer them down a side street. "It'll be tricky with everyone there but I'll keep my eyes on the cameras and keep all of you informed."

"Everyone knows what to do?" Hongjoong asked, from the back.

Jongho nodded, turning to look back at the rest of the group from the passenger seat. Jongho didn't usually go in during missions, but since their main infiltrating group was gone, Jongho would do his best to fill in.

"Everyone has their back up in case they need it for Wooyoung and Yeosang?" Seonghwa asked, Jongho nodding as he double checked his jacket pocket for the syringe the older had given out earlier. "I'm hoping we don't have to use it but if the situation calls for it, use it."

The van slowed to a stop, Yunho turning off the engine. "A few of the matches have already begun so hopefully most of the New World and its officials will be distracted enough for you to get in and out undetected."

"Are you tapped into their security system?" Hongjoong asked, Jongho loading his two pistols.

"Yes. I should be able to disable alarms and locks as you go, you just need to tell me when you need access to something." Yunho replied.

"Everyone has their comms on and ready?" Hongjoong checked, Jongho catching a glimpse of red dots that suddenly appeared on one of Yunho's operating screens.

"We're good to go." Seonghwa expressed, Jongho knowing it would be best to finish this as soon as possible.

"Okay then...let's go." Hongjoong breathed out, Mingi opening the back doors while Jongho climbed out from the passenger door. Pulling his mask down over his face, Jongho tapped the button behind the ear to activate the tech. An invention Mingi and he had worked on for months to create in hopes of helping the infiltration team from being recognized. From the outside perspective, they looked like any government official.

"I unlocked the outside door on your left." Yunho's voice informed through the ear piece. "Once inside, you're going to take a right down the second hallway."

"Copy that." Jongho replied, the group veering left to enter The Ring.

On the inside, the building was sterile. Bright white walls accented in a light grey made the space open yet suffocating at the same time. Jongho wasn't sure how people living there didn't go insane. Or maybe they did? Maybe that's the reason people lived in this hell...

Turning at the second hall, Jongho kept a close eye on their back as Hongjoong led the group. So far, no one was around which Jongho's nerves were grateful for. He wasn't ready for a confrontation just yet.

"Take a left down the next hall." Yunho instructed, the group following his orders. The second hallway looked identical to the first. "Be careful up ahead. Looks like you have three officials walking your way."

"Understood." Hongjoong called back, the group slowing pace and fixing their posture.

"Looks like we're going to get Wooyoung first." Yunho shared. "I can't find Yeosang yet."

Jongho was about to respond but men in white government uniforms entered his view. They turned their gazes slightly, Jongho tensing as he felt the palms of his hands beginning to sweat. While their eyes were void of any emotion, Jongho could tell they were questioning their presence there. Swallowing the lump in his throat, Jongho continued to move forward, following right behind Mingi. The officials continued past, the air finally able to leave Jongho's chest once he felt their gazes leave his back.

The group turned left, the new hall filled with doors on each side like a prison or psych ward. It made Jongho frown. With the doors as close as they were, he couldn't image there was much room inside.

"Which way?" Hongjoong's voice was quiet in the ear piece, barely audible beside him.

"The seventh door down on your left." Yunho instructed, Jongho quickly counting to door seven. Behind the light grey door was their missing friend. Their missing lover. Behind the light grey door was going to be Wooyoung. "Give me a second and it should unlock."

A loud buzzing echoed down the hall, Jongho flinching at the sound. Without anything covering the walls or high ceiling, the noise seemed to alert the whole building. Jongho quickly pulled open the heavy door, a familiar face waiting on the other side. Wooyoung was standing up straight, his posture stiff and...unlike him. His face had slimmed down, faint dark circles under his eyes. In some ways, Jongho would say he looked good, but given the circumstances, he just felt guilty. It took them way too long to try and come back.

So many words formed on Jongho's tongue but none made it out. What could they say? What could they do? After years how were they to-

"Wooyoung?" It was Seonghwa who spoke first, his voice gentle.

"Present, Sir." The other replied robotically with a ninety degree bow as if Seonghwa was a superior.

"Wooyoung, it's us." Seonghwa almost seemed to cry. "It's me, Seonghwa."

No sign of recognition lit up in the older eyes, Jongho feeling himself shift in his spot. Something was wrong. Something was-

"You guys need to start moving." Yunho warned, snapping the group back to the task at hand. "There's a group of guards heading your way."

Jongho was the first to act, not wanting to ruin the mission because they were too in shock to move. He maneuvered Wooyoung so that the other was draped over his shoulders, carrying the other towards the exit. While Jongho did expect some resistance from their initial meeting, he didn't expect his vision to suddenly be fixed up at the ceiling.

Legs wrapped around Jongho's torso, locking around the younger while his right arm was pulled in a way that made his muscles tense in warning. Jongho tried to get out of the lock, but Wooyoung just pulled back on his arm, stretching the muscle uncomfortably.

When did he get so...strong?

"The officials are almost to you." Yunho warned, some panic trying to be hidden in his tone.

"Sorry, we're kind of-"

The body holding himself down suddenly went slack, Jongho sitting up to view the scene. Seonghwa had a now empty syringe in hand, Mingi now working to pick up an unconscious Wooyoung off of the floor.

"Let's go." Hongjoong ushered, retracing their steps back towards the exit hastily.

Jongho's mind was still stuck to being pinned down. Wooyoung was never able to do that before. The older wasn't much of a fighter, but now...Jongho wondered what else had changed. How much has changed.

Exiting The Ring, the group made it back to the van. Mingi set Wooyoung down in the back, Hongjoong beginning to tie the other up.

"Is that really necessary?" Jongho asked, not liking the idea of treating Wooyoung like a captive they'd just stolen.

"We don't know his mental condition and if he wakes up and causes Yunho trouble that could cause problems." Hongjoong explained. "For now, we need to take extra precautions."

"New rounds of Ring Matches have begun." Yunho informed from the driver's seat. "It looks like..."

"It looks like?"

"It can't be..."

"What the hell are you looking at up there?" Mingi questioned, hopping in the van to see.

"What's going on?" Seonghwa asked worriedly as Jongho hopped in next to view the screen Yunho was currently looking at.

It was a live camera feed from inside the matches. One camera was zoomed in on a particular person. One who made Jongho's heart sink.

It isn't...It can't be possible.

"It's...San." Yunho finally managed to say for the oldest two. "He's alive."

וווו

K.HJ

X760.07.11

San...

Hongjoong couldn't believe it. He watched the younger die. He watched as the other was used as propaganda to deter people from rebelling.

So many questions flooded Hongjoong's head, but he pushed them away. They had to focus. Not only did they need to save Yeosang still but now San was added to the picture.

"We might want to split up." Hongjoong shared, the group turning to look at him.

"But what-"

"I know it might be stupid to do, but now that we're saving two more, we need to be more timely." Hongjoong advised, knowing if they missed their window now, they'd have to do more waiting. "Mingi, you'll come with me to get San. Seonghwa and Jongho, you two are on Yeosang duty, understand?"

The two nodded, Hongjoong inhaling deeply. He really didn't want to risk splitting up again, but as Hongjoong saw it, it was their best option. Ideally they had until the end of The Ring Matches, but realistically, they had until they got caught.

"Yunho, do you think you can cover both teams?" Hongjoong asked, the younger's eyes seeming to dull a little.

"Yeah...I can do that." Yunho muttered, Hongjoong knowing the other was nervous about this.

"Great. We'll be in and out before you know it." Hongjoong tried to reassure. "Is San's match almost over?"

Yunho checked the screen again before nodding. "It looks like he's already finished. They're taking him back to his cell."

"Is it back in the same place as Wooyoung's?"

Yunho nodded. "He's the ninth door on the right. I'm still searching for Yeosang though."

"Understood." Hongjoong replied, ready to finish this rescue mission. "Let's go again."

The team of four left the van, heading back for the left entrance. Hongjoong led the group, immediately feeling like something was wrong the second time around.

Looking around, Hongjoong spotted a few more officials patrolling the area.

"They must've heard the alarm earlier." Jongho hypothesized. "It'll be more difficult to get San out of that area."

"Seonghwa, you and Jongho wait around here for Yunho's instruction on Yeosang. Mingi and I are going to try and get San out." Hongjoong instructed. "If you need help, just let us know."

"Copy that." Seonghwa replied, leading Jongho down the opposite hall.

Turning to Mingi, Hongjoong searched for any concern in the other. Earning a nod from the younger, Hongjoong began to lead them back to the cell hallway.

Hongjoong kept his steps brisk and stiff as they passed by officials. A few of them watched while others hardly minded their presence at all. With the area swarmed with more chances of being discovered, Hongjoong prayed to whatever higher power might be looking out for them to help.

Turning down the next hallway, Hongjoong could feel his heart beating faster in his chest, the sound reaching his ears. It would be nearly impossible for them to get San out of that room without making contact with a few of the officials. Either they try to convince them that San is needed elsewhere or they raise hell in the building. Hongjoong didn't think that would be the wisest choice since they still needed to find Yeosang.

"Mingi, leave the talking to me." Hongjoong spoke softly into the comms.

"Got it." Mingi replied, following closely behind Hongjoong as they counted the doors on the right.

"Yunho, I need you to unlock this door when you see me pretend to input a code." Hongjoong instructed, walking up to San's door. He pretended to hit the numbers on the keypad, the loud buzzing from before filling the space and alerting the groups of officials.

"Number 725 already had his match in The Ring." One of the officials approached Hongjoong, his tone serious yet void of any threat.

"I am aware, but I've received orders to bring him to the New Order." Hongjoong replied, doing his best to copy the tone of the official.

"I have not been informed of such a thing."

Hongjoong did his best to not swallow hard. "Because of a possible infiltration, the New World is trying to keep this private between few. They don't want their prisoners rescued."

Suspicious eyes lingered on Hongjoong for a few long seconds, the shorter unable to even breathe. One wrong move would be the end for them. They would be-

"Very well." The official finally replied. "Make it quick. It seems they've already reached this area."

Hongjoong gave a curt nod. "Yes, Sir."

Allowing Mingi to open up the door to the cell, Hongjoong finally inhaled. He couldn't believe that worked. Now all they had to do was get San to the van.

Mingi walked into the room and grabbed San by the arm, dragging him out of the room. It took a lot in Hongjoong to not throw his mask off and pull the younger into a hug. He was definitely different now. His hair was cut short and he also looked as though he gained more muscle while away. He seemed tired and Hongjoong couldn't imagine what he went through.

Guiding them back towards the exit, Hongjoong did his best not to acknowledge the passing stares. They just needed to act as though they belonged. As if they knew what they were doing.

Glancing back at Mingi and San, Hongjoong noticed the confusion on San's face. The sight was amazing to see.

"Seonghwa, Jongho," Yunho's voice said. "I found Yeosang. He's actually pretty close to you."

"Great, just lead the way." Seonghwa replied, Hongjoong idly listening to the conversation. His main focus was making it back to the van.

Arriving at the exit doors, Hongjoong looked around, a few officials heading away from them.

Ushering Mingi and San through the doors first, Hongjoong kept his eyes on the potential threat. They turned their heads, but Mingi and San were already out the door. The three officials turned back around and continued walking, Hongjoong taking the opportunity to leave next. He walked out, running to catch up with the other two.

Two down...one to go.

"Umm...weren't we supposed to go to the New World's box?" San asked, allowing himself to be led.

"Don't worry, San. It's us." Mingi spoke. "Hongjoong and Mingi."

San's eyes suddenly lit up, relief relaxing him as they rounded the corner of the street. Mingi let go of his arm, San immediately turning around and planting a kiss against Mingi's lips. He pulled the mask off of him, Hongjoong watching in disbelief. He couldn't believe San was there in front of him. He couldn't believe the boy they all believed was dead was suddenly -

Warm lips suddenly pressed against Hongjoong's, strong arms wrapping around his neck and pulling him closer. Closing his eyes, Hongjoong relaxed into the kiss, unbelieving that he was able to do this again.

The van doors suddenly opened in the back, Yunho looking a bit surprised and distressed. San pulled away from Hognjoong but kept his arms locked around him.

"Sorry to ruin the moment, but Wooyoung woke up." Yunho stated, his leg kicking back at something.

Opening up the doors further, Hongjoong could see Wooyoung trying to get out of the ropes. The younger finally showed some sort of expression, though it wasn't one Hongjoong wanted to see. Wrath is what he'd call it and it was aimed at them.

וווו

S.MG

X760.07.11

Pulling a syringe from his jacket, Mingi injected it into Wooyoung. Seonghwa had told them it was supposed to last a few hours, but apparently that was wrong. Or maybe...

No, don't think like that, Mingi. He's fine now. The torture is over.

"I can't believe you guys are here." San spoke up, helping to reposition an unconscious Wooyoung against the side of the van. "How did you know where I would be?"

"Well, we didn't know you were alive until like twenty minutes ago." Mingi admitted. "But Yunho spotted you on one of the cameras and we had to get you out of there."

"We watched you get shot on...I mean, how did you survive?" Hongjoong questioned, his eyes wide in disbelief still as if he couldn't believe San was there. The whole situation felt a little surreal.

"I...I'm not really sure myself." San chuckled nervously. "I woke up in a cellroom and there was a note at my bedside table telling me how to blend in. My face must've been wiped form the system though, because no one recognized me."

"Well, you do look a little different." Yunho added. "Your hair is longer and you seem to have...bulked up."

San nodded with a grin. "I worked out a lot because that's basically all they're supposed to do."

"But what about-"

"Yunho?" Seonghwa's voice echoed in the car and in Mingi's earpiece.

The older turned around, looking back to his computers. "Go ahead."

"We have Yeosang, but..."

"But what?" Hongjoong asked.

"The exits seem to be blocked." Seonghwa replied, his voice quieter. "If we walk out with Yeosang's unconscious body, we're going to look suspicious."

"I'm sorry, I...ugh, I got a little distracted." Yunho muttered in frustration. "You're still a ways away from the original exit, so we might have you go through the closest one to you on the right."

Mingi moved up in the van to see Yunho's monitors. Jongho's and Seonghwa's location was further into the building than Hongjoong and him had to go. The nearest exit seemed to be on the other side of the building from where the van was. On the security cameras, Yunho switched through the feeds, soldiers now stationed near exits and patrolling hallways.

"Lead the way." Seonghwa confirmed, Mingi watching on the screen. Jongho had Yeosang on his back while Seonghwa seemed to peer around the corner they were at.

"So turn down that hall and keep going straight until you hit the third intersection. I'll let you know if there are any soldiers heading your way." Yunho instructed.

While Yunho was focused on the inside cameras, Mingi caught sight of a few outside ones. Soldiers were stationed around the walls, Mingi focused on a security tower in particular. Even if the group managed to get outside undetected on the ground, Mingi knew the eyes in the sky would be their downfall.

Hopping out the back of the van, Mingi spotted the very top of the tower, about an inch of it able to be seen. He followed that line of vision to a few buildings that would be great views.

"What's up?" Hongjoong asked, moving to stand beside Mingi.

"I need to take out the soldiers in that tower." Mingi stated, pointing to the tower. "I think I can get a clear shot from that building there."

Hongjoong gave a curt nod. "Do what you have to do. As long as we're all making it back home today."

Mingi nodded, turning to reach into the van. He pulled out his shotgun and grabbed his bag of ammunition.

"Yunho, you'll need to let me know when they're about to leave the building. I'll make the shot right before."

"But won't that alert the other soldiers?" San questioned.

Mingi smirked at the other, happy to hear his voice after so long. "I have a few new tricks up my sleeve. Plus, if they do go crazy, they'll probably head for the tower."

San gave a skeptical nod, hopping out of the van. "Then I'm going with you. You're gonna need someone to watch your back, right?"

Mingi could see the hesitance and worry settling on Hongjoong's face, Mingi knowing exactly what he was thinking.

"I will, but I think Yunho will need you here in case Wooyoung wakes up again." Mingi said. "Hongjoong and I will do this."

San frowned slightly but nodded, Hongjoong handing the other his syringe.

"Use this if you need to." Hongjoong said, joining Mingi's side. "We'll be back soon."

"Be safe out there." San said worriedly.

"We'll be gone and back before you know it." Mingi replied with a confident grin. "We're all going home."

"Mingi and Hongjoong, you two might want to start moving." Yunho said, his voice faint in one ear and loud in the other. "Seonghwa and Jongho are almost to the doors."

"Roger that." Mingi replied, racing carefully to the building across the street.

Hongjoong followed closely behind, both watching their surroundings like hawks. They entered the tall building without a problem, the people all at The Ring. They climbed the stairs, listening to Yunho guiding their other teammates through.

Sixteen flights of stairs later and Mingi was beginning to get out of breath. He wasn't used to such haste, usually getting enough time to leisurely get to high points.

Opening the door to the floor, Mingi was grateful it was an open work space, windows lining the one wall.

Finding a window in line with the tower to open, Mingi propped it enough to get a clear shot. He made sure to be careful to stay out of line of sight the most he could. It would be bad if they were spotted now.

"I'll keep watch." Hongjoong said as Mingi loaded his weapon.

"Seonghwa, Jongho, you're going to turn right down that hall but be as quiet as you can. There's a group of guards nearby that could potentially spot you in this section." Yunho instructed the others, Mingi feeling the suspense and tension the others would be feeling.

"Copy that." Seonghwa replied.

"Mingi." Yunho said.

"Go ahead." Mingi answered, beginning to set up his weapon for aim.

"Do you have a clear shot yet?"

"Give me just...a...second..."

Looking out of the scope, Mingi aimed through the window of the tower. There were two people inside. Mingi had two bullets loaded.

"Got it." Mingi confirmed. "Just give me the go ahead whenever you're ready."

"Seonghwa, can you see the door ahead of you?" Yunho asked.

"Yes."

"That's the door you're going to go out of." Yunho directed. "Mingi, I want you to take the shot in three...two...one...now."

Moving the aim to the first soldier's head, Mingi pulled back the trigger. The noise was silenced by his modifications, but the kickback was still just as powerful. He quickly aimed his gun again before letting the second bullet fly.

Alarms began to sound, Mingi quickly pulling his gun from the window.

"Fuck, I missed the second shot." Mingi shared, gathering Hongjoong and his things and heading for the stairs.

Inside the stairwell, Mingi could still hear the sirens. A voice over the intercom in The Ring seemed to guide everyone to the tower which he was grateful for. That would maybe mean focus would be on getting to the tower instead of intruders.

Almost tripping down the stairs, Mingi cursed again. He couldn't believe he missed the second shot. He'd have to do some more target practice when he got back.

Rushing out of the building, Mingi and Hongjoong rushed back towards the van. Something small whizzed by Mingi's ear, hitting the road near his foot. A few more began to rain down around him, Mingi beginning to change his path. He was not going to be taken down by a bullet. That was his job.

The back of the van opened, San motioning them to hurry up as it began to pull forward slowly. Hongjoong was the first to hop in, Mingi doing his best to dodge the soldiers efforts to take him down from a distance.

He grabbed on to San's outstretched hand, hopping into their escape vehicle.

"Where's Seonghwa and Jongho?" Mingi asked, noticing a few missing bodies.

"Don't worry." Yunho replied, the van making a sharp turn. "We're heading back."

Stepping on the gas, Mingi's body lurched back. He gripped the edge of the seat next to him, noticing Wooyoung's unconscious body beginning to slide across from him. The doors of the van were still open, Mingi doing his best to keep himself inside while his legs tried keeping Wooyoung inside.

Yunho made another sharp turn, sending their body weight towards the front of the vehicle.

Ting! Ting! Ting! Ting! Ting!

Bullets continued to rain down on the van, Mingi feeling his heartbeat rise as he saw Seonghwa and Jongho racing towards them in the gunfire. Yeosang was passed out on Jongho's back, the boy most likely slowing Jongho down a little.

"Slow down the van!" Mingi called out to Yunho, not ready to see his friends die in front of him. Not again.

Yunho let up on the gas, Seonghwa the first to catch up. Mingi offered him a hand, the older taking it as he was pulled in. Mingi's heart sank more as flashing lights began to chase after them, the soldiers now prepared to chase them down in their own vehicles.

"He won't be able to get in with Yeosang on his back." Seonghwa stated, his head ducking a bit as more bullets hit their van. "Yunho, we have to stop for just a second."

"They're gaining up on us." Yunho pointed out.

"But Jongho won't make it in." Seonghwa argued. "Just hit the brakes and then step on it."

The van suddenly screeched to a halt, Mingi's body being forced by physics to slide into Hongjoong. The younger quickly moved away to help Jongho and Yeosang inside, Yunho quickly stepping back on the gas as the government cars were closer. Mingi teetered forward and almost out of the back, but he caught himself on the edge. He reached for the door handle, doing his best to pull the left door closed.

A sharp pain almost made Mingi let go as he winced, blood already seeping out of the wound.

"Are you okay?" San asked quickly, pulling the other door closed before helping Mingi.

More bullets damaged the outside of their van, Mingi finally able to relax as both doors were closed. He groaned as he looked at his hand, a bullet having lodged itself into the back of his palm.

Seonghwa was quick to make his way over, pulling a first aid kit from under one of the seats. "I'll do a proper dressing of it when we get back but for now, I'm going to try and stop the bleeding, okay?"

Mingi nodded, letting their team doctor do his thing. He glanced around the back of the van, everyone seemingly trying to catch their breath. Everyone...

Everyone...

Everyone was finally back.

וווו

K.YS

X760.07.11

One second, Yeosang was about to enter his round of matches. The next second, he woke up in an unusual room. It wasn't small and narrow like his usual room. The walls and floors weren't white, instead the walls were a dark grey while the floor was a lighter grey. It was all overshadowed by strange things hanging up on the walls, and items scattered around. There was personality to the room, something that made Yeosang grow...uneasy.

Getting up out of bed, Yeosang wandered around the room. He took in the details, wondering if this was some sort of mental test. While his physical abilities were up to par, his mental abilities sometimes struggled with certain things.

A few items caught his eye first. Two wanted posters were hanging on the walls, one which had him featured on it with a reward. The other was of another person, one Yeosang didn't recognize. The second thing he noticed were pictures of him with other people, different expressions adorning his face.

I look so happy.

The door handle suddenly moved, Yeosang searching for anything nearby he could use as a weapon. If this was a test, he needed to be prepared. Finding a pair of scissors on the desk next to him, Yeosang quickly pointed them at the person entering the room.

A boy like the one in the other wanted poster stood with his open hands raised up in the air, his eyes wide. One of his hands held a book of sorts.

"I didn't think you'd be awake so soon." The dark haired man spoke gently. "Can I have you put the scissors down, Yeosang?"

He knows my name...

Yeosang eyes him curiously and suspiciously, not letting his weapon falter.

"It's me, Yunho." The other continued to say. "We're friends, Yeosang. I'm not going to hurt you."

Yunho? Is it really you?

Yeosang was a follower. A believer of words. There was no malice in Yunho's tone. In fact, it was the opposite. There seemed to be a fondness hidden in his voice. It made Yeosang skeptical.

Slowly lowering the scissors, Yeosang kept it held by his side. Yunho smiled warmly, Yeosang wondering if he'd made a mistake. There was something wrong with this man. Something the New World wouldn't want.

Yeosang kept his eyes trained on the taller's body. Any hint of aggression and Yeosang wouldn't hesitate to slit the man's throat.

This is just a test. Nothing he says is true.

They'll hurt me again.

"I know you don't remember your life before capture, but...I brought you this." Yunho said, extending the book towards him as he sat down on the wide bed.

Yeosang let his eyes look to the object before looking back to Yunho. He waited a few seconds before accepting the offer. The blonde eyed Yunho once more before flipping open the cover.

It appeared to be a journal of sorts, one that was filled with writings.

"That's your journal." Yunho informed, Yeosang's eyes darting back over to the man. "You wrote in it quite often so maybe something might...be useful for you."

Before Yeosang had a chance to really focus on the writing, noises outside shifted his attention. There was a loud thud, followed by yelling. A familiar voice making Yeosang curious.

This has to be a test.

Opening up the bedroom door, Yunho left first, Yeosang following out with the scissors clutched in his hand. His eyes widened as he saw a familiar face wrestling with another stranger, many more bodies watching from the sidelines.

"Wooyoung, stop it." A boy with long blonde hair scolded, trying to pull Wooyoung up off of another. Yeosang recognized the other blonde too. He'd had a spar with him the day before. He couldn't remember the name though. It wasn't like he needed to.

Wooyoung fought against the two strangers who were trying to restrain him, Yeosang's eyes never leaving the scene. The dark haired boy's gaze suddenly met with Yeosang's, narrowing as if locking on to a new target. With a harsh bite to the blonde's wrist, Wooyoung was released, Yeosang's grip tightening around the scissors.

"What are you doing here?" Wooyoung asked, his attention now on Yeosang as he stood up. The other two nearby stayed close, their eyes uncertain about the situation.

Yeosang shrugged, still trying to figure out what sort of test this was. The New World usually put them through physical challenges but a few had been mental challenges. None of them involved a scenario like this though.

"I should've known a mute like you wouldn't have any answers." Wooyoung stated. "I'll just have to get us out of here myself."

Yeosang blinked, unsure what Wooyoung meant. Yeosang could get himself out of there just fine.

Deciding to focus on the unfamiliar faces in the room, Yeosang looked away from the younger. They all stared with a nervousness that Yeosang had never seen before, the sight only making him more and more curious.

What exactly is this test supposed to be?

וווו

X759.01.04

Finding warmth in the middle of winter was difficult in their home. Their heater has broken down a year ago and they never got around to fixing it, instead finding other creative ways to stay warm in the winter cold.

Yeosang usually wasn't much of a sex driven person, but he would admit he enjoyed the activity more in the winter months. It helped his body stay warm for the most part. The part he hated most was when it all ended and his body was suddenly soaked in a deep chill that couldn't seem to be cured by a blanket alone.

Inhaling deeply, Yeosang tried to stop himself from trembling as he laid on top of Yunho's nude body. The older was still nice and warm against Yeosang's chilling body, keeping him relaxed as his mind slowly returned to him. They remained under the thick blankets despite their current post sex state, Yeosang not looking forward to having to leave the warm space. By the way Yunho's fingers began to massage Yeosang's scalp, he'd say the older felt the same way.

Nuzzling into Yunho's hand, Yeosang closed his eyes. It was rare moments like these when Yeosang let himself be a little more vulnerable, turning into a touch starved person. "Feels nice..." He mumbled out.

Yunho chuckled. "I'm glad. You did a good job today." He praised, Yeosang opening his eyes as he looked at the taller. "So good for me. And so pretty."

Yeosang shifted on top of Yunho, enjoying the compliments. "If you keep talking, you might just get a round two."

Yunho smiled, his fingers pushing back the long strands of hair covering Yeosang's face. "I'm sure you'd let me have a round two even if I did stop talking. You're just that sweet and caring, aren't you? You'd let me use you however I wanted just to hear about what a good boy you are."

Yeosang felt his mind slowly slipping at the words. Yunho was always sweet and gentle with his praises unlike some of the others. While they still praised him, they always made their words a little harsher, adding more derogatory names for him. Not that Yeosang minded.

While Yunho continued to whisper soft praises into his ear, Yeosang let himself sink further and further. It was nice to not have to think of stress about things sometimes. To not think about the way the world was ever since the New World Order was put into place.

Bang! Bang! Bang!

Both boys flinched at the sudden banging on the door, Yeosang curling up under the blanket. "Time to get up, lovebirds." Wooyoung said opening up the door, no shame in interrupting.

Yunho's hand continued to pet through Yeosang's hair, while he hid, a sudden weight crashing down on top of the blonde.

"Don't ignore me, Yeosangie." Wooyoung cooed teasingly, trying to remove the covers Yeosang was hiding under.

"'m not." Yeosang mumbled, flinching as the younger began to tickle him.

"Careful, he was close to slipping." Yunho warned gently as Yeosang tried to move away from his attacker, his mind in a bit of a panic.

"Ah, is that true, Yeosangie?" Wooyoung cooed again, succeeding in removing the blanket to reveal Yeosang.

The younger wrapped Yeosang up in his arms, leaving a forceful kiss against the older's cheek. "Sorry, but Seonghwa wanted all of us out for breakfast, so your fun times will have to wait."

Yeosang didn't make any effort to move off of the bed and neither did Yunho. Wooyoung continued to cuddle Yeosang for a few more seconds before reaching over to grab a pair of Yeosang's sweatpants from the floor and beginning to dress the older.

Yeosang shook his head, weakly fighting against Wooyoung as the dark haired boy pulled the waistband up.

"Need to shower." Yeosang muttered, not wanting to feel gross at the table.

"Too bad." Wooyoung smirked. "You can shower after, but for now, you need to eat."

Yeosang frowned, trying to crawl back to Yunho as his top half began to shiver from the cold.

"What's the hold up?" Jongho asked, the youngest now entering the room.

"Yeosang doesn't want to get up." Wooyoung replied, moving away from the older.

Seeing this as a victory, Yeosang began to try and burrow back under the covers. He only got halfway when strong arms grabbed a hold of his hips and pulled him back to the edge of the bed. Letting out a whine, Yeosang let himself be manhandled into Jongho's arms.

"Seonghwa should've sent you here first." Wooyoung chuckled, following Jongho out of the room as the youngest carried Yeosang.

"He was going to, but I figured you would have fun being the villain for a little bit." Jongho replied, setting Yeosang down in a chair at the table.

"Villain? I'll have you know that Yeosangie loves my presence."

"Pft." San chuckled across the table, Wooyoung glaring at the older. "Sorry, but you know Yeosang doesn't like his aftercare interrupted which is exactly what you did.

"Because all of you wanted to eat." Wooyoung argued. "Someone had to do it so the rest of you wouldn't starve."

Having a plate of food set in front of him, Yeosang picked up the fork and began to eat. His body still felt cold and gross but the warm food helped keep his mind occupied while it slowly came back to reality.

Taking another bite of his toast, Yeosang raised a brow as more eggs were suddenly being put on his plate. He glanced over, wondering why Wooyoung was giving him more food.

"Sorry for interrupting." Wooyoung mumbled out.

"It's okay." Yeosang replied, trying to put the eggs back on to Wooyoung's plate. He really didn't need all that food. Wooyoung moved his plate away from Yeosang, the two beginning a competitive game. While Yeosang may not have been completely excited about getting out of bed, he could never hate Wooyoung. The youngest was the reason he was alive after all.

Chapter Text

C.S

X760.07.11

It felt like a dream. Being back home where he belonged, it was surreal. He wasn't surprised to hear that his lovers thought he was dead. Even he thought he'd be dead and yet here he was. Of course, not everything could be perfect right away.

Holding back Wooyoung from trying to fight Yeosang was a lot more difficult than San expected. Wooyoung had always been a bit scrappy, but he had more muscle now. More experience. All that feistiness was now one of his biggest advantages. The boy wouldn't sit still long enough for San to keep him pinned.

It was fully expected that soldiers were emotionless, and yet, Wooyoung was cursing with rage as he tried to get San to release him.

"I said to fucking let me go!" Wooyoung hissed, managing to sneak his head under San's arm, only for the older to trap him again, keeping them on their backs.

"Yunho, why don't you take Yeosang back to your room." Seonghwa advised, trying to help San out again. The eldest pulled out another syringe, quickly injecting it into Wooyoung like he'd been doing it all his life.

Wooyoung's legs still kicked around but it slowly died down until the younger eventually passed out. San relaxed his hold, letting Jongho and Mingi take Wooyoung to a separate room.

San sat up, only to be wrapped up in a tight hug. "Sorry, I just...haven't had the chance to properly welcome you back." Seonghwa said, his voice sounding like it would break any second.

Wrapping his own arms around Seonghwa, San held the older close. He let his eyes close, enjoying the feeling he hadn't felt in so long. Despite it being a few years, Seonghwa still smelled the same. It made San chuckle.

"Would you be okay telling us about what happened while you were gone?" Hongjoong asked, sitting down on the couch. "I'd understand if you want to wait or maybe don't even want to talk at all, but I know we'd really-"

"I'll tell you." San interrupted with a gentle smile, sensing Hongjoong's anxious rambling beginning. "At least, what I can recall. There's some stuff I don't remember or know about."

Mostly with what happened to the other two...

Seonghwa pulled back from San, remaining to sit with him on the floor. Mingi and Jongho returned, closing the door to Wooyoung's old room.

"Should I wait for Yunho?" San asked, earning a head shake from Hongjoong.

"I'll fill him in later. It's probably best he stay with Yeosang for now." Hongjoong replied as Mingi and Jongho joined the older on the couch.

Inhaling deeply, San recalled the events in his head, his smile fading. "They had shot me in the leg and I was restrained and gagged. They dragged me inside of Paradigm where I was brought in front of the New World with Yeosang and Wooyoung."

San felt a shudder go through him as he remembered Paradigm. It was the tallest building, built to house the New World and their highest officials. The building itself was not only foreboding, but there was this eerie atmosphere inside that never made you feel quite safe. Like divine judgment was awaiting you inside.

"They began to...beat us." San continued, hands moving to wrap around his waist. "I couldn't do much because I was tied up, so Wooyoung threw his body on top of mine, Yeosang covering us both. I could hear the sound of a few ribs breaking and Wooyoung letting out a pained gasp."

San tried his best to hold tears back, remembering the torment his friends had gone through during that time. While San still sustained injuries, Wooyoung and Yeosang got the brunt of the beating.

San continued to tell the others about what happened as it all replayed in his head. He remembered being dragged out of the first room and then thrown into a cell with Yeosang, Wooyoung being dragged somewhere else. They were both scared for their friend, only to be confused when Wooyoung was returned with his injuries mostly healed. San recalled their lack of food and water, having to share one cup twice a day and one tray of food only given to them once. One of them would usually be hauled off and interrogated before coming back with more injuries from their silence. The treatment had gone on for a year before San was finally taken and chosen to be the sacrificial example for those who thought to rebel. San then told them about the experience in which he was basically undercover.

No one had spoken the whole time San told his story, their eyes holding so much guilt and sympathy it made San feel bad. He never blamed them once for what happened though. He would rather it be him who was taken than anyone else.

"To be honest, I didn't know if I'd ever see any of you again." San admitted quietly. "But I'm glad that you-"

CRASH! Clang, clang.

All heads turned to the medical room, Jongho and Seonghwa already racing to check it out. Hongjoong continued to sit on the couch, pinching the bridge of his nose with his brows furrowed.

"That stuff is supposed to knock him out for hours." Hongjoong sighed. "How does he go through it in minutes?"

San frowned. "Like most things, if you're given enough of it, your body begins to grow immune."

Hongjoong's eyes met San's with horror. "You mean they gave you guys this stuff?"

San nodded. "Practically three times a day. They wanted to keep us disoriented and unsure about time. Wooyoung had gotten to a point where he couldn't sleep without some sort of drug in his system. I almost wonder if he's still like that now, but it doesn't work because his body's so used to it."

"Well, if his body is running through it this quickly, we'll have to find a new method to knock him out for a while."

San moved closer to Hongjoong, sitting at the other's feet as he rested his head on the older's knees. "Are you disappointed?"

"Why would I be disappointed?"

Because I wasn't strong enough...

"Because I couldn't save them." San replied. "I promised I'd protect them and I..."

Fingers slowly began to card through San's hair, a familiar face suddenly entering his field of vision. Reaching out, San quickly wrapped his arms around Shiber, holding the old toy close.

"I'm not disappointed or upset with you about what happened." Hongjoong assured, continuing to comb through the younger's hair. "It's not your fault."

וווו

C.JH

X760.07.11

For the time being, Wooyoung was unconscious. Seonghwa decided to try something new, in hopes that would give them enough time to figure out how to handle the other. In the meantime, the others filled Yunho in on San's story and ate their lunch together while Jongho took over babysitting Yeosang.

Unlike Wooyoung, Yeosang was more calm about the situation. While that wasn't really new, Jongho took note of the way the older continued to clutch a pair of scissors in his hand while they ate together. Yeosang didn't show any major signs of aggression, but it was clear he was prepared if Jongho decided to make a move first.

"So," Jongho began to say, setting his empty plate on the side table. "do you really not remember any of us? This place?"

Yeosang shook his head, his eyes trained on the younger while he chewed the last of his food. There was something cold yet curious about his gaze, making Jongho wonder what the older was thinking about.

He had found it odd that Yeosang had yet to talk. The older was quiet by nature but this was different.

"Do you remember who you are?" Jongho decided to ask, earning a silent nod from Yeosang. "And who might that be?"

"Kang Yeosang of the New World Brigade. Soon to be Captain of Force Four, Five and Six." The older finally answered, sounding more like an automated machine rather than his usual self.

Captain? Was Wooyoung going to be a captain too? Did the New World mean to put Yeosang in a high ranked position?

Jongho's shock soon turned to one of guilt and sadness. He wasn't much for touch, but he felt this urge to want to embrace Yeosang. An urge that he couldn't act on.

What did they do to you in there? Do you really not remember anything? The person you were? What we were? What we all were? Is that really gone?

וווו

X758.06.21

A few months had already gone by in their large romantic relationship, yet Jongho was still a bit...unsure. Not about his feelings but by what romantic relationships entailed. Everything seemed so easy for the others to adjust to, but Jongho didn't know what to do. He was used to some of the others being clingy and very much in his personal space, but now that they made things official, it was different.

Jongho knew the others understood his feelings towards them, but was that enough? Was he supposed to be lovey towards everyone now? Was he supposed to initiate more things? Was he supposed to want these things? Was he supposed to act different now?

Letting out a sigh, Jongho let his already sitting body fall to the side, his head landing on Yeosang's thighs. The older glanced down at Jongho with wide eyes before smiling softly.

"Do you wanna talk about it or sit in silence?" Yeosang asked, his attention going back to the journal he was writing in on top of the couch's armrest.

Jongho let out a chuff at the other's observance. If there was one person he felt super comfortable around it was Yeosang. Unlike the other's Yeosang wasn't as daunting to be around, letting Jongho come to him rather than the other way around.

"You won't tell the others will you?" Jongho asked, rolling on to his back to look up at the other.

Yeosang shook his head, putting his pen down inside of his journal before closing it. "Not unless you want me to."

Jongho shook his head, their eyes meeting for a few seconds before Yeosang looked away, his cheeks flushing pink.

"This can stay between us." Jongho finally managed to say. "I just...I don't know what I'm supposed to do about this whole relationship."

Yeosang raised a brow. "What do you mean?"

"Everyone else seems to be acting like real lovers do but...I don't know...I guess, I just feel like I'm doing something wrong."

"What do you think real lovers should be doing?" Yeosang asked, seeming genuinely curious as if he were evaluating himself now.

"Like San and Wooyoung are always going around giving kisses or hugs and are pretty clingy. Mingi is also becoming a little more touchy feely and always wants to hold someone's hand. Yunho is just...Yunho. Seonghwa and even Hongjoong are always trying to feed everyone and are more flirty with their words." Jongho pointed out. "I just feel like I'm not doing any of that and I don't really know if I can."

"Then I guess...if you're doing things wrong then so am I." Yeosang replied, looking back down at Jongho. His eyes were filled with worry and uncertainty.

Great, now I freaked him out too.

"So we have to act more like Wooyoung and San to be in a relationship?" Yeosang questioned. "I'm not sure I can do that."

Jongho chuckled a little to himself as he pictured Yeosang with a personality like Wooyoung. "I mean, not necessarily but I feel like something needs to be different."

"But why?"

"Because I don't want the others to think I don't actually love them." Jongho answered with a sigh. "I want them to feel loved by me the same way I feel loved by them."

"I think I understand what you mean." Yeosang said. "To be honest, I don't know if I'm cut out for this relationship. I love all of you but I just...don't feel like I'm enough."

Jongho frowned. Yeosang was enough. Sure, he's not super outward with his love but he has his own love language. He's timid and shy which is one of his many charms in Jongho's eyes.

"You're enough for me." Jongho finally said, sitting up to be more eye level to the older.

Yeosang smiled, his eyes flitting down to Jongho's lips and back to his eyes. "You're enough for me too. Don't get me wrong, I love the others too, but you...you make me feel less awkward? I'm not sure that's the right word but-mmf."

Yeosang's lips were soft against Jongho's, the younger leading the kiss. He didn't know why, but hearing Yeosang ramble on only urged Jongho to kiss him. Whether it was to get the older to stop talking or because he was finally feeling the effects of a romantic relationship, Jongho wasn't completely certain.

He was certain about his love for Yeosang and this kiss only solidified it. For a few seconds, his insecurities and worries seemed to melt away.

Pulling away from Yeosang, Jongho let out a quiet chuckle at the deep blush across Yeosang's face.

Bang!

"You two better not be fucking on the couch!" Wooyoung called out, entering the open space with bags in hand.

"Did you have to slam the door open?" Seonghwa chided, following in.

"Well, I didn't really want to see them making out or anything so I gave them a nice warning that we were back." Wooyoung argued sassily.

"We weren't making out or having sex." Jongho corrected.

But we could've...

Immediately being tackled into a hug, Yeosang reached out to Jongho for help as his wrapped up body landed on the ground. Even if Jongho was to help Yeosang, there was no escaping San's hugs.

He had to admit though, seeing Yeosang's attention shifted to San had Jongho wishing he had a little more time alone with Yeosang.

וווו

J.WY

X760.07.11

It was useless to struggle while his wrists and ankles were strapped down by leather straps on the metal table. However, Wooyoung tried anyway. It wouldn't be the first time he had to get out of binds, and it probably wouldn't be the last. Unfortunately though, leather belts were much different than rope, duct tape or zip ties.

The whole situation was odd, and Wooyoung wanted nothing more than to go back to his usual routine. His kidnappers were strange and so was the place they were trying to hold him in. He'd never had a test quite like this before and he was beginning to think it wasn't. Only more of a reason he needed to get out of there. Whether he'd take Yeosang with him or not was still undecided.

After another failed attempt of slipping his hand from the restraints, Wooyoung let out a huff of frustration, feeling the emotion fester under his skin.

If this really is a test, I'm going to rip my supervisor's head off.

Hearing the door click open, Wooyoung lifted his head, seeing a shorter man enter the room. Hongjoong, if he could recall the others' use of the name.

I love him.

The door closed behind the other, Wooyoung watching closely as the other sat down in a metal chair next to him, a notebook and pen in his lap.

"I know you don't remember me, but my name is Hongjoong." The other introduced, locking his hopeful eyes with Wooyoung. "I'd really appreciate your cooperation in answering some of my questions."

Letting the spit he was holding on his tongue fly, Wooyoung was surprised that Hongjoong didn't flinch in response or show any signs of disgust. Instead, his eyes seemed to grow sad. An even more disgusting expression than before.

"So tell me, what can you remember about your time in captivity?" Hongjoong asked, lifting the pen to begin writing.

"Do you really want to know?" Wooyoung asked, earning a nod from Hongjoong. "I-I remember being tranquilized and then I woke up tied up to a metal table." Wooyoung replied bitterly.

Hongjoong let out a sigh, Wooyoung letting himself smirk. "Tell me about your time with New World Brigade." The other asked.

"And why would I?" Wooyoung questioned, not sure why this man would think it would be that easy to get answers.

"If you aren't going to answer that then tell me what you think about humans and their emotions?"

"Pft, human emotion is a hindrance to progress." Wooyoung scoffed. "You and your friends are only in the way of creating a perfect society."

Hongjoong raised a brow. "You sound pretty upset. Isn't that an emotion?"

"Anger and frustration are about the only emotions the New World generously allowed me to keep." Wooyoung replied, taking note of the surprise in Hongjoong's eyes.

"Don't they want to get rid of all emotions though? Isn't that the reason they have everyone brainwashed into emotionless people?"

Wooyoung wanted to laugh at Hongjoong's words.

"Why didn't they do that with you?" The other continued.

"If you really want answers, I suggest you try questioning the New World's little puppy you're keeping locked up in another room." Wooyoung advised, not wanting to keep such accusatory conversation. He wasn't in the mood to deal with any of this right now.

"Yeosang?"

Wooyoung nodded, rolling his eyes at the name. "He'll give you answers, if you can find a way to get him to talk."

Hongjoong leaned forward in his chair, his elbows resting on his thighs. "Is there a reason he doesn't talk?"

Wooyoung shrugged, a grin stretching his lips. Of course he knew the answer. He was stuck with the other for years. Not that he'd give the man beside him the satisfaction of knowing. "Guess he never has anything of value to say."

The frown which overtook Hongjoong's face made Wooyoung grin more thinking about how frustrated the other must be. How invigorated the other must feel driven by anger. Wooyoung licked his lips.

"You really don't remember being friends with him?" Hongjoong continued to question.

Wooyoung rolled his eyes. "Friends with Yeosang? Never."

"Did something happen between you two?"

"The only thing that happened between us is a constant rivalry to be better than the other." Wooyoung replied, his teeth grinding a bit. "He's my competitor, and if I had it my way, he'd be beneath me."

Words were muttered under Hongjoong's breath, Wooyoung unable to hear. Not that he cared too much. The other's opinion could mean less to him.

"Since you seem to like questions so much, why don't you answer some of mine?" Wooyoung challenged, growing irritated that he wasn't getting many answers himself. "Why am I here?"

"Because this is where you belong."

I know.

Wrong.

"Why not just let me go and save yourself the trouble of being hunted down by the New World?"

"Because this is where you belong."

I missed you.

Stop lying.

"Why is it that I belong here?"

"Because you were one of us. We loved...love you."

I love you too.

Pathetic.

A knock at the door had both boys shifting their attention. A blue haired boy stuck his head in, Wooyoung doing his best to remember the face for the future.

Mingi.

"Seonghwa wants a group meeting." The taller said, Hongjoong nodding in response.

Standing up, Hongjoong cleared his throat, looking back to Wooyoung. He seemed puzzled and disappointed, but Wooyoung didn't care.

"We'll bring you dinner later, but for now, this will be your accommodations." Hongjoong stated. "If you need anything, just holler."

Wooyoung watched closely as Hongjoong walked out of the room, the door clicking closed behind him. He rested his head back against the metal table and closed his eyes. He wasn't planning to stay much longer. Now he knew exactly how he was gonna get out of there.

וווו

J.YH

X760.07.11

Dinner was quiet. More so than usual. Yunho didn't really mind since he understood that there was a lot to take in since the day began. The fact that San was still alive was still processing in the older's mind and the uncertainty of Yeosang and Wooyoung was weighing down on his thoughts. He had hope though. He had to.

Smiling to himself as he observed San asleep on the couch cuddling Shiber tight, Yunho wished he knew exactly what happened to San. Who saved him? Why did they? How did they?

"Should I take him to his room?" Jongho asked, coming out from Yunho and Yeosang's shared room.

Yunho shrugged, not really wanting to disturb San's slumber but also not wanting him to be uncomfortable all night long. There was also the fact that-

"Don't worry, I'll stay with him tonight." Seonghwa chimed in, giving Yunho's shoulder a squeeze as Jongho walked over to pick up San.

"How did you know I was worried about that?"

Seonghwa chuckled. "Twelve years spent together gave me a lot of time to read your expressions. Besides, I'm worried about him too."

Watching as Jongho carried San to his bedroom, the other two turned their heads at the sound of another door opening and closing.

"How is he?" Seonghwa asked, Hongjoong letting out a tired sigh.

"He's still being difficult."

"Should I try talking to him?" Seonghwa offered.

"No. We can try again tomorrow, but for now, I'll sleep out here in case something happens."

"Are you sure?" Yunho asked, concerned about their captain's lack of sleep.

"Yeah, I'll be fine." Hongjoong replied. "You two should head to bed though. Something tells me tomorrow is going to be even more difficult."

Yunho stood up from the couch. "Should I stay with Yeosang?"

"If you feel comfortable with that." Hongjoong replied. "Otherwise, I'm sure Mingi or Seonghwa wouldn't mind sharing."

Yunho nodded. On one hand, it would probably be safer to sleep in a different room since they didn't know the severity of Yeosang's current condition. On the other hand, Yunho didn't find much malice coming from Yeosang as he did with Wooyoung.

"I'll stay with Yeosang." Yunho concluded. "Maybe I can figure out more about what happened to them."

"If you need anything just...yell." Hongjoong replied.

"Same to you." Yunho replied, walking towards his bedroom door. He opened it slowly, finding Yeosang staring up at the wanted poster of himself on the wall. The group had torn them down a long time ago and hung them up in their respective rooms as a little joke. Now, Yunho wondered what this Yeosang thought.

Turning to face Yunho, Yeosang stood in silence as if awaiting the other to speak first. His posture was stiff and formal. A soldier awaiting orders.

"Do you want to change into something more comfortable?" Yunho asked, taking note of the suffocating uniform he was wearing.

Not waiting for a response, Yunho stood and walked to their dresser. He pulled open the dresser, digging through the clothes to find a pair of Yeosang's pajamas. Over the years, all of Yeosang's clothes had been slowly piled to the bottom. Pulling out a pair of pants and a shirt, Yunho extended them out to Yeosang before turning around.

Eyes widening, Yunho was surprised to see Yeosang had already stripped down. The other was usually shy about changing, even after all these years together. What shocked him more was the bandages wrapped around the majority of Yeosang's body. A large section of the bandages on his back were soiled for who knows how long.

"Before you put your shirt on, let me change your bandages." Yunho instructed, already beginning to rummage for their small first aid kit they kept in their room. Once in hand, Yunho sat at the end of Yeosang's bed, patting the spot beside him for Yeosang to sit. The younger listened obediently, sitting so that he was facing Yunho.

Keeping his movements slow and cautious, Yunho began to undo the old bandages, feeling the younger's eyes trained solely on him.

"Let me know if anything is uncomfortable or hurts." Yunho said as he bundled the dirty bandage up and tossed it in the waste bin next to the nearby desk. "I'll need you to turn around so I can clean the wounds on your back."

Yeosang did as he was told, though he seemed hesitant to not have Yunho in view. While Yeosang's arms and neck were littered with bruises of various degrees, the wounds on Yeosang's back were much more severe than Yunho originally expected. Large gashes were open and discolored with infection all around Yeosang's back, but something in particular caught his eye. A branding mark of some kind was seared into his lower back.

Does Wooyoung have one too?

Yunho opened up the first aid kit and pulled out a cotton ball as well as a cleaning agent. "This is probably going to sting a little but it's necessary to clean your wounds." Yunho warned before dabbing the soaked cotton all against Yeosang's skin.

The younger didn't flinch or show any sort of sign of discomfort. It was kind of impressive considering the degree of infection.

"Doing okay?" Yunho asked, earning a nod in response. "So how did you get these wounds?"

...

...

...

"Did they whip you?" Yunho tried guessing, earning another nod. "Why did they do that?"

...

...

...

"Did you break a rule?" Yunho continued, swapping the dirtied cotton ball for another. Yeosang nodded, still unfazed by Yunho's actions.

"Is that why you have a branding mark on you?"

Yeosang shook his head in response.

"Does Wooyoung have a branding mark too?"

Another shake of the head.

"Can you tell me why you were branded?"

...

...

...

Letting out a quiet sigh, Yunho was about to give up. Clearly, Yeosang didn't want to speak and it would be hard to guess what exactly the mark meant. It would be easier to just focus on-

"I was chosen by a New World Leader." Yeosang finally answered. His voice was barely audible, but Yunho was relieved to hear the other's voice nonetheless.

"Chosen as in?"

...

...

...

Tossing the cotton ball to the side, Yunho got started on rewrapping Yeosang's back. He continued to wait for an answer though he doubted Yeosang would say. He supposed hearing his voice once was as good as it was going to get tonight.

Wrapping the bandage securely, the older was able to focus more on how much more muscular the other had truly become. Yeosang had always been lean but now there was much more muscle definition. Securing the end of the bandage in place, Yunho closed the first aid kit. He didn't bother wrapping Yeosang's arms or neck back up because there wasn't a need to cover up the bruises really.

"Is there a reason you don't really like to talk?" Yunho decided to ask, walking over to put the first aid kit away.

...

...

...

"I was told that my voice was only useful for mo-"

Click.

"Hey Yunho, can I talk to you a second?" Hongjoong stuck his head through the crack in the now open door.

Yeosang's eyes seemed to narrow at the older, Yunho letting out a sigh. "Yeah, I'll be right out." He replied.

Waiting for Yeosang to continue what he was saying was pointless after ten seconds. Yunho decided he'd try asking again later but for now, he needed to see what Hongjoong needed.

"I'll be back and then we can talk some more." Yunho said to the younger as he left the room.

Chapter Text

K.YS

X760.07.12

Alarms were blaring in his ears but the world seemed eerily quiet. The rest of the team were all ahead with their backs to him. The hoods of their clocks covered their heads as they moved, Yeosang confused by why he didn't have his own.

I must've forgot...

Not wanting to be left behind, Yeosang began to walk after them. His steps were quick so that he could catch up, yet it seemed the other's were moving further away from him. Picking up the pace to a light jog, Yeosang still couldn't quite reach them.

"Wooyoung?" Yeosang called out, only to be drowned out by the alarms. "San?"

The seven finally stopped, Yeosang now able to reach them. They were about to enter a dark hallway, one that would probably lead to their escape. Moving to talk to Hongjoong, Yeosang froze in place as all seven bodies began to move again, this time in an erratic manner. They're bodies would come close to his own as they moved by. One after another taking hold of his attention in quick succession.

"What's going on?" Yeosang asked, though he could hardly even hear his own voice as anxiety began to control his breathing. "Yunho? Seonghwa?"

Reaching out, Yeosang grabbed a hold of one of the hoods, pulling it down. He expected to see a familiar face but there was nothing familiar about the smirk Seonghwa wore. There was this...evil lingering behind it, making Yeosang take a step back. The other six stopped and removed their hoods, all of them now facing Yeosang with similar grins.

Like prey under a predator's hungry gaze, Yeosang was frozen for a second. His mind was debating on whether to flee and hide or stay and fight.

"What's wrong?" Seonghwa asked, his tone laced with fake worry. "Scared we might hurt you?"

Yeosang shook his head, though his body cowered a little as the older took a step towards him. Deep down Yeosang reasoned that the people in front of him weren't really his friends, yet it was hard to deny when everything else was them.

Glancing to the dark tunnel and back at the seven now approaching him slowly, Yeosang let his instincts kick in. He dashed into the darkness, the alarms echoing in a way that made him want to rip out his eardrums. The metal under his feet rattled with each quick step. Maniacal laughter soon joined the echo, Yeosang feeling his heart rate spike.

Why am I running? They love me. They wouldn't hurt me.

"Why are you running, Sangie?" Wooyoung called out as if reading Yeosang's mind. "Don't you love us?"

"Don't worry, we won't hurt you." San added, though his voice sounded a bit distorted.

Yeosang continued to run forward in the dark, unable to truly see where he was going. Fear was the driving force keeping him moving though. His body suddenly collided with another, the momentum knocking him down. He didn't get a chance to even try to stand back up. His head was pressed down against the cold metal floor by a shoe, the rest of his body pinned down by another body. The pressure and the deafening alarms made Yeosang's head feel as though it was going to explode, tears threatening to fall.

"Caught you." Jongho whispered into Yeosang's ear, his voice overpowering everything else. "Now let's play a little game, shall we?"

Crunch!

Immense pain traveled down from Yeosang's head, making him scream out yet he couldn't hear it.

"Such a pretty face."

Crack!

His mouth formed pleas but he wasn't even sure anyone could hear them. His voice, his words, they weren't reaching anyone.

"Don't stop crying on me now."

Crunch!

A new sort of pain originated from his rib cage, Yeosang wanting all of the pain to just stop.

"So beautiful." Jongho's voice was faint. "You still with me, Yeosang?"

Snap!

Another silent scream along with the rattling of a belt buckle being undone.

"Yeosang?"

Yunho?

A tug at the waist of his pants.

Stop.

Please, stop.

A chill reached his lower half, tears now flowing down Yeosang's cheeks.

"Yeosang, wake up."

Eyes flying open, Yeosang quickly scurried away from the person standing above him. He was on the floor now, his back pressed up against the corner of the room. His breathing was labored, his mind still trying to decipher reality.

"Sorry, I didn't mean to scare you." Yunho apologized gently, staying on the other side of the bed. "You just...sounded like you were having a nightmare."

Yeosang could only stare at the other as he tried calming his breathing. He couldn't remember the last time he had a nightmare, or if he ever really did. His body still felt threatened, but his mind was now slowly calming itself.

That wasn't the first time. There was a familiarity to what he just witnessed, but the details were hazy at best. His body still seemed to tremble the more he tried to think deeply about it.

I know I've seen that before, but...

Using the walls as support, Yeosang slowly stood up. He stayed leaned up against the corner, his eyes glancing over to the clock nearby. It was still early in the morning and most likely still dark out.

"Do you want a water or anything?" Yunho asked quietly, earning a head shake from Yeosang.

He'd saw that dream once before. He was sure of it.

"Do you wanna talk about your dream?"

Yeosang shook his head again, his body still trembling as he thought hard about where he'd remember it from. Moving closer to the bed he was once resting in, Yeosang sat back down. His back faced Yunho, his concern now elsewhere.

Why can't I remember? Is it a past memory? Why did it feel like I...like I cared about them? We're we really friends before or am I just getting confused? Maybe that was a sign we never really were? Did I even know them before this, or is this just another test?

Sensing the other beginning to move, Yeosang whipped his head around. Yunho put his hands up in a surrender type motion, before settling back into his own bed.

He doesn't seem dangerous, but...is it all an act? Is this just human emotion at its finest? Is it all just a trick? Do they...do they want something from me?

This has to be a test. It has to be.

וווו

S.MG

X760.07.12

Sleep wasn't necessary to function properly. That's what Mingi kept telling himself as he tried making breakfast. Worry kept him up practically the whole night, and to feel less grumpy about it, he kept telling himself that sleep didn't matter anyway.

Arms snaked their way around Mingi's waist as he cooked eggs at the stove, a chin resting on his shoulder.

"Breakfast smells good." Yunho muttered tiredly, Mingi feeling some weight lifted off his chest. It was good to know one of his boyfriends survived the night. "Is Hongjoong out here still?"

Mingi shook his head, turning off the stove. "No, he's in the medical room with Wooyoung."

Yunho let out a hum, still attached to Mingi as the other moved them so he could plate the scrambled eggs. Warm lips suddenly pressed against Mingi's neck, lightly sucking in the place Yunho knew made the younger's knees buckle.

Letting a low growl slip from his throat, Mingi grabbed Yunho's wrists and pried the older's arms from his waist. He spun them around so that Yunho's back was pressed against the edge of the counter. The older chuckled, Mingi quickly silencing him in a deep kiss.

Despite being in a relationship with everyone else, Yunho was a bit different to Mingi. It wasn't a bad thing in the younger's mind. The others had favorite's too. Maybe not quite favorites, but someone they just...connected with on a deeper level than the rest. A soulmate of sorts.

Yunho was that person to Mingi.

Slipping his hands under Yunho's shirt, Mingi let his fingers roam the other's lean body as their kiss grew a bit sloppier.

"Not in front of the food." Jongho's gruff voice groaned, Mingi turning to glare at the youngest for interrupting. It was difficult to stay too mad since Jongho's hair stuck up in all different directions, a tired pout adorning his expression.

"You're just jealous I got a taste first." Mingi teased, stealing another kiss from Yunho.

"Jealous? The only thing I'm jealous of is the fact that the others didn't walk in on a full make out session." Jongho argued, sitting down at the table.

"If you wanted a kiss you should've just asked." Yunho chuckled, walking over and leaving a wet kiss on Jongho's cheek. The youngest let out sounds of disgust as he quickly wiped the slobber away.

"At least let me eat breakfast first." Jongho grumbled.

"Fine." Mingi sighed, walking a plate of his finely made breakfast and setting it in front of the younger. "You'd better enjoy it."

Jongho parted his lips so speak but was distracted by the sudden shouting coming from the medical room. He stood up quickly, but his worry faded as Hongjoong came out of the room alive.

Slam!

"If I have to deal with that boy's attitude another second, I swear I'm gonna kill him myself." Hongjoong grumbled, sulking over to an empty seat at the table.

Mingi was quick to bring a plate of food over for the older, Jongho sitting back down. "Do you want me to try talking to him today?" Jongho asked.

"You can try, but you probably won't get very far." Hongjoong replied, pinching the bridge of his nose, his face scrunched.

"Want some medicine?" Mingi asked, Hongjoong shaking his head

"I'll be fine once I eat something."

"Still getting headaches?" Yunho asked, leaning against the counter beside Mingi, the younger keeping him there with his arm wrapped around Yunho's waist.

"I guess, the stress of trying to run a rebellion never really goes away." Hongjoong replied, taking a few bites of his food.

"Which is why I try to tell you that we can help out with some of the tasks." Seonghwa joined in, wrapping his arms around Hongjoong from behind. It took a while but Mingi noticed that Hongjoong didn't fight the older's affections as much as he used to.

"No need." Hongjoong argued. "I have it under control."

For a few seconds, Mingi felt as though yesterday was all a dream. Then San walked out of the room, rubbing his eyes. He still looked exhausted despite the smile on his face.

"Good morning." He greeted cheerfully.

"How did you sleep?" Jongho asked, pulling out the chair beside him for San to sit. Based on the cries of terror Mingi heard multiple times in the night, Mingi assumed he knew.

"Umm...better, thanks to Seonghwa." San replied as he accepted Jongho's offer to a chair. "I'm just...happy to be back."

"We're happy you're back too." Seonghwa smiled, leaving a kiss to the top of San's head as he walked over to where Mingi and Yunho were standing.

Making up two more plates, Mingi handed them to Seonghwa to take over to the table for him and San. It was strange to see more than five people in the room despite it always being a dream the past few years.

"How are Wooyoung and Yeosang doing?" San asked, taking a bite of his food.

"Wooyoung is still being difficult." Hongjoong answered. "But I don't think he got any sleep."

"If he was used to taking a sedative like San said, then I guess we can try it tonight." Seonghwa offered. "Though, we should look to get his system off of it."

"Can I try talking with him today?" Mingi asked, wanting to really understand the state the other was in. If he could somehow get through to him.

"You can try, but be prepared to deal with spit and a whole lot of stubbornness." Hongjoong sighed.

"Well, you did say yesterday that he could only really feel anger, right?" Seonghwa questioned, taking another large bite of food to finish off his plate.

"If what he told me is true, then yes."

"But why would the New World want him to keep such emotions? Wasn't their whole thing about getting rid of all human emotions?" Mingi thought aloud, finding the whole situation confusing. "And why allow him of all people to still have emotions? You'd think they would want all of us to be completely emotionless."

"They must've been planning something bigger behind the scenes." Hongjoong guessed. "Something we'll have to look into."

"What about Yeosang?" Jongho asked. "Do you think he has emotions left too?"

Mingi looked to Yunho, knowing the other spent more time with the other the last twenty four hours. The rest did the same.

"I'm not sure yet. The last time he talked to me was when I replaced his bandages." Yunho shared, Mingi raising a brow.

"He's injured?"

"Oh, right...I forgot I didn't talk to you guys about that yet." Yunho replied nervously. "Last night, I helped him replace bandages wrapped around his body. His back had some gashes that were infected and there was a lot of bruising on other parts of his body."

"So he was still being beaten?" Seonghwa said with concern. "Should we check Wooyoung too?"

"Probably." Yunho replied, his hand reaching to Mingi's for comfort. "The most concerning thing I found was a branding mark burned into his skin. He told me that a New World Leader had picked him but that's really as far as I got with that. I do know that Wooyoung doesn't have a mark though."

"So he..." Mingi let his words trail off, the room falling silent.

"San, do you know...do you know anything about this?" Hongjoong asked, all eyes turning to San.

"No, I don't." San replied, his gaze fixed down at his hands. "I wish I did though."

Now, Mingi was more determined than before to figure out what happened.

Bang!

The medical room door burst open, Wooyoung standing menacingly in the doorway. He looked like a crazed killer, with his smug grin, his wrists severely bruised.

וווו

K.HJ

X760.07.12

Shock was the only thing keeping Hongjoong glued to his chair as he stared at Wooyoung. How the younger got out of those restraints was a huge mystery, but Hongjoong was more concerned that the other had a sharp scalpel in hand.

"Pretty fucking stupid to leave this within reach." Wooyoung spat with a grin. "Now, tell me how to get out of here and no one gets hurt."

Hongjoong stood up from his chair, Wooyoung's stance becoming defensive as the older stood protectively in front of the others. They didn't have any weapons nearby other than basic household items, but Wooyoung was also trained in a way that was meant to kill. One wrong move and someone would end up dead.

"You're not going back there." Hongjoong argued, standing about a foot in front of Wooyoung.

Wooyoung's grin only grew. "Watch me."

Preparing to dodge Wooyoung's sudden advance, Hongjoong was surprised when his body was yanked back, a new person standing where he once was. The scalpel in Wooyoung's hand was now lodged through the palm of another, blood already dripping to the floor. Not a single sound was made.

"I was waiting for you to come out of your little hiding spot." Wooyoung chuffed, still trying to shove the scalpel down as if it would go further. "Why are you protecting them, huh? Did they promise to fuck you?"

Within seconds, Yeosang had Wooyoung's body pinned to the ground, a scalpel still lodged in his hand. Hongjoong slowly stood back up, Seonghwa grabbing his hand to pull him back and away from the other two who were still fighting each other on the floor.

Legs of the chair scraped across the floor as San stood, Hongjoong wanting to stop him from interfering but decided against it. San was probably the only one who would know what the other two's tricks were.

Helping pin Wooyoung down, San turned back to the rest of the group. "Seonghwa, can we get a sedative or something?"

Seonghwa nodded, quickly rushing to the medical room. Hongjoong took the opportunity to find something to restrain Wooyoung again.

"You two are fucking traitors to the cause. You're noth..ing but..."

Seonghwa pulled the syringe from Wooyoung's neck, Hongjoong quickly beginning to tie the other. Who knew how long they'd have before he woke back up.

Turning his attention to Yeosang, Hongjoong tensed as the younger pulled the scalpel from his hand. He was prepared to fight Yeosang next but was surprised to see him hand the bloody tool to Seonghwa. He didn't seem to be in pain at all.

The younger stood up, heading back for the bedroom without a single word.

"Wait." Hongjoong called out, Yeosang stopping right away. "We need to bandage up your hand."

As if he didn't even know, Yeosang raised his hand up to look at the bleeding wound. Yunho was already walking off to grab a kit, Hongjoong slowly approaching Yeosang.

Why isn't he hostile like Wooyoung?

Reaching out to guide Yeosang to the couch, Hongjoong's body went rigged as his wrist was grabbed in a vice-like grip. He hadn't even touched the younger yet.

"Sorry, I was just going to take you to the couch." Hongjoong said gently, hoping the other wouldn't think of him as a threat.

Yeosang released the older, walking over and sitting down himself as Yunho sat beside him with a kit. Yeosang seemed to relax as Yunho got to work, Hongjoong wondering if there was something else Yunho knew that the rest of them didn't. Hongjoong couldn't blame Yeosang for being comfortable though, Yunho just had that aura around him.

Settling near the two, Hongjoong decided to try and get some answers from Yeosang.

"Is there a reason you decided to help me back there?" Hongjoong asked, not beating around the bush. Yeosang turned his head to at least look at the older, but he didn't respond. He just stared at Hongjoong curiously.

"Yeosang? Is there a reason you're not speaking with us?" Seonghwa asked, leaning over the back of the couch behind Yunho.

Yeosang turned his attention to the other. Still no words.

"Yesoang, you can talk to us." San said, moving to sit on the floor in front of the other. "We aren't going to hurt you."

Yeosang's eyes seemed to narrow at San, Hongjoong preparing to step in, in case Yeosang were to decide to attack. He never did though, looking at San more curiously than maliciously

"You're part of the brigade, why aren't you trying to escape?" Yeosang asked, his question directed to San.

"Because I never was part of the brigade and neither are you." San replied. "Now, why did you help detain Wooyoung?"

...

"Because he's a fucking nuisance." Wooyoung spat, all eyes turning to see the other was now awake.

"How much did you give him?" Hongjoong asked Seonghwa, surprised by the quick consciousness.

"Not a lot." Seonghwa replied. "I don't want to keep drugging him with large doses."

"Tch, not like it would make a difference." Wooyoung replied. "Now let me go and no one has to die."

"No one is dying regardless, and you're staying right here." Hongjoong argued.

Wooyoung seemed to snarl at the older, Hongjoong rolling his eyes. He really wanted to understand. There had to be a way to get them to remember. At the very least, there has to be some way to get Wooyoung to relax and Yeosang to talk more.

"Group meeting." Hongjoong called, standing up from his seat.

"Right now?" Mingi questioned, his eyes frantically looking to Yeosang and then Wooyoung.

Hongjoong nodded, understanding the other's concern. "Umm...Yeosang, watch Wooyoung. We'll be right back."

In all honesty, Hongjoong didn't think Yeosang would listen, but to his surprise, the younger turned to face Wooyoung. The younger of the two glared back, a silent battle between stares commencing.

Being the last into the meeting room, Hongjoong closed the door behind him. He would make the meeting quick, they just needed a battle strategy. One that would bring back their remaining pieces.

וווו

P.SH

X760.07.12

Seonghwa thought Hongjoong was crazy. He wouldn't say it out loud, but trusting Yeosang to not release Wooyoung or take him and run was...risky. Even though Yeosang didn't seem very hostile, that didn't mean he wasn't strategic.

"So, how are we going to get them to remember?" Hongjoong asked after his opening spiel, his eyes traveling to each person.

"Maybe if we act like we did before they were taken, it would spark some memories?" Jongho suggested.

"I gave Yeosang his journal to see if it would trigger something, but I don't think he's read anything in it yet." Yunho shared. "Maybe we could show Wooyoung some of the pictures he's taken?"

"The problem with doing that is he's probably going to think we faked them somehow." Seonghwa argued, knowing the other was in denial.

"It's worth a try though." San said.

Seonghwa could see the guilt San held still. Despite their talk the previous night, San still felt responsible for everything. It hurt Seonghwa to see and hear. Even the multiple nightmares San had made it nearly impossible for Seonghwa to sleep.

"Okay, let's try that." Hongjoong agreed. "But if that doesn't work, we'll try and treat them like we usually did."

"And if he tries to kill us?" Jongho asked.

"Reprimand him." Hongjoong answered. "We'll stop trying to tranquilize him for now. Unless he gets really out of control."

"So are we gonna keep his binds off then?" Seonghwa asked, wanting more of a plan.

Hongjoong nodded. "Yes, we will. Yunho, if you could set up something in the security system to be able to stop him or Yeosang from leaving, that would be great."

"I think I have something already made." Yunho replied. "Wooyoung and I were working on it before...well, before everything happened."

"Great, we'll have you use that then. We'll keep the weapons room locked up and keep anything that could be a potential weapon hidden away."

"So we hide everything in sight?" Jongho teased.

"You know what I mean." Hongjoong rolled his eyes. "We'll also lock him in his room at night when we all go to bed. Any more questions or concerns?"

Many.

"No, that sounds fine." Seonghwa said while the others nodded.

"Good. Yunho, I'll have you do the security thing right now while the rest of us try showing Wooyoung some pictures." Hongjoong directed.

The group got up from their seats. Yunho walked into the surveillance and tech room while the rest grabbed stacks of photos from Wooyoung's photo corner. They walked back out to the common areas, Yeosang still seated on the couch watching Wooyoung as the younger berated him.

"Great, you're all back." Wooyoung said sarcastically. "Want to let me go now?"

"Actually, we wanted to show you some pictures." Seonghwa replied, walking over and crouching down beside the younger. He moved the stack of photos in front of Wooyoung's eyes, slowly flipping through them. "Do you remember taking any of these?"

To Seonghwa's surprise, Wooyoung was actually looking at each one in silence. The older stopped the shuffle on a photo of the two of them, Wooyoung pressing a kiss against Seonghwa's cheek.

"Anything ringing a-"

Seonghwa flinched as a glob of spit landed on the photo, slowly running down it.

"Did you really think altered photos were gonna spark some kind of memory recovery for me?" Wooyoung questioned. "I am not your friend and I never was."

"But you were, Youngie." San said meekly. "You were more than our friend. You were... you're the love of our lives. It's because of you that we all got so close."

Wooyoung rolled his eyes. "And why should I believe a liar like you? You played your part in the brigade, knowing this would happen. You just want us because you think we're your best chance of getting answers. Of taking down the New World."

San frowned, moving closer to the younger. "I...I knew they would come back for us, but I-"

"You hear that, Yeosang? Our kidnapping was premeditated." Wooyoung stated with a chuff. "They don't actually want to fuck you. They just want answers so that-"

"Shut up!" Hongjoong yelled, his fist colliding with the wall behind Wooyoung. "Don't you dare talk about him or us that way."

"Did I strike a nerve, Hongjoong?" Wooyoung asked, knowing full well he did. "Like I said before, I'm not your friend or lover or whoever you think I am, and I never will be. You're all just diseased parasites who need to be eradicated."

Seonghwa could feel tears forming in his eyes. He wanted things to go back to the way they were but...what if they never did?

What if Wooyoung's memories never come back? What if he's stuck as a vicious, angry person?

The door to the planning room opened and Yunho entered the space. He had two metal rings in his hand.

"What are those?" Seonghwa asked, making room for Yunho as he approached Wooyoung first. Yunho grabbed a hold of Wooyoung's foot and lifted it up, the younger trying to kick at him.

"It'll prevent them from leaving the base." Yunho stated, opening the metal device and closing it around Wooyoung's ankle.

Click.

"What the hell. Get this off of me!"

"Nope, you're staying here." Yunho said. "The rest of you should make the final preparations so we can untie him."

Seonghwa nodded, watching the rest of the group scramble to find all the potential weapons lying around. Seonghwa knew he should help but his body remained seated on the floor beside Wooyoung, watching as Yunho attempted to put the other device on Yeosang.

The blonde haired boy reminded him a curious cat as Yunho approached him, his gaze observing the anklet the other held. Seonghwa figured it would be easier to put the device on Yeosang, but his attention was quickly moved to a shimmer behind Yeosang's back.

Reacting quickly, Seonghwa sprang up and pulled Yunho back before he could get any closer, Yeosang revealing a small pair of scissors from the first aid kit that he was hiding.

Seonghwa moved his body in front of Yunho, backing them both up as Yeosang pointed the sharp end of the scissors towards them. He shifted his attention as the others tried closing in on him too.

"You're all dead." Wooyoung said. "I may hate the guy, but I do know that there's only one person who is allowed to put any sort of binds on Yeosang."

"What do you mean?" Seonghwa asked, though he had a little picture in his mind.

"You really wanna know the reason Yeosang is ranked higher than I am?" Wooyoung questioned. "It's because he was willing to spread his legs for the New World."

"We get it, you think Yeosang is a whore." Jongho said with an eye roll. "What does that have to do with trying to strap that on his ankle."

"I gave you your clue. Figure it out on your own since you all seem to think you're so smart." Wooyoung scoffed.

"I could try and give him a tranquilizer?" Seonghwa suggested, still blocking Yunho in case Yeosang decided to charge at them.

"Mmh, bad idea." Wooyoung chimed in, clearly having some sort of amusement with all this. "While I love a great drug in my system, Yeosang hates it. You'd be lucky getting a syringe anywhere close to him."

"We did it once." Seonghwa argued.

"Because you got lucky. I can guarantee that won't happen again."

San took a step forward from his spot in the kitchen, Yeosang shifting his aim to him instead.

"Yeosangie, I need you to put the scissors down." San tried to coax gently. "We're not going to hurt you. We just want to make sure you're safe."

"They're lying to you, Yeosang." Wooyoung piped up. "It would be best if you slit their throats and then you and I can go back to where we belong."

"Don't listen to him, Yeosang." Hongjoong said, taking a step closer. "You protected me from him earlier, remember? You did that for a reason. Deep down you know that we're not a threat to you."

"Don't be a fool, Yeosang." Wooyoung argued. "This is all a test. You'll fail if you let them put that device on you."

Moving Yunho back against the wall beside Wooyoung, Seonghwa crouched down in front of him and slammed his hand over Wooyoung's mouth.

"It's okay, Yeosang." Jongho said, moving to stand the closest to Yeosang now, the scissors practically aimed at his throat. Jongho kept his hands up inside surrender, not even seeming scared. "I promise, this is for your own good. We're not your enemy, so please...let Yunho do what he needs to do."

The tension in the room grew, Seonghwa unsure if Yeosang would listen. Despite keeping a stoic face, Seonghwa could tell deep down, Yeosang was afraid. 

Chapter Text

C.JH

X760.07.12

Despite having a pair of sharp scissors practically at his throat, Jongho wasn't afraid. He knew Yeosang...his Yeosang was still in there.

Staring into Yeosang's eyes, Jongho tried to find any hint of recognition inside. Any sign that Yeosang wasn't as lost as they thought he was.

"Yeosang, can you put the scissors down, please." San began to say, redirecting Yeosang's attention. "Don't do anything you're going to regret."

Yeosang kept the scissors at Jongho's throat, but turned his body to the side to face San. Hongjoong was the next to take a few steps forward, Yeosang moving a few steps back, creating more space between him and Jongho.

Wooyoung's muffled words were still drowned out by Seonghwa's hand over his mouth, but Jongho could tell he was sort of cheering Yeosang on.

"It's not permanent." Yunho said, holding up the device. He clasped it shut and then opened it again. "If you don't like it, we can take it off."

Jongho tried his approach again, Yeosang turning his attention back on him. The standstill lasted for a few more minutes, a few of the members each taking turns trying to get close to Yeosang. Jongho knew they probably weren't going to get anywhere with this, so he came up with a new plan.

Once Yeosang's attention went to Mingi, Jongho struck. With one hand, he grabbed Yeosang's wrist on the side that held the scissors. At the same time, his foot kicked out and wrapped around the back of Yeosang's knee. Pulling his foot forward, Jongho tried wrecking the scissors from Yeosang's grasp as the blonde fell to his knees.

While he was able to fling the scissors somewhere else, that didn't stop Yeosang from wrestling with Jongho.

"Yunho, get the device and put it on his ankle." Jongho instructed, trying to get behind Yeosang so he could pin his arms back. In the past, Yeosang was less inclined to fight against Jongho so much, letting the younger win their sparring matches. Despite Jongho's protests that Yeosang needed to actually try his best, Yeosang never did. Now, Jongho had a hard time even getting one arm pinned away.

Seeing Yunho try and get down near Yeosang's feet, Jongho did his best to try and keep Yeosang still. The blonde kicked and fought against Jongho's attempts, but weight wise, Jongho was able to at least keep him in one spot.

San seemed to notice Yunho's struggle to grab hold of Yeosang's ankle, stepping in to help. Jongho's forearm was trying to hold down Yeosang's chest, the older attempting to shimmy his body down underneath it. Tightening his hold to try and prevent the other from escaping, Yeosang seemed to squirm more, like a scared puppy.

A deep, dull pain suddenly shot up the youngest's arm, making his muscles tende. Fighting the urge to loosen his grip, Jongho grit his teeth as Yeosang bit down harder on his arm.

Click.

"Got it." Yunho said quickly, Jongho letting go of Yeosang. The blonde released his bite as Jongho let him go, blood dripping down Jongho's arm as well as staining Yeosang's lips.

"Ow!" Seonghwa suddenly shouted, the hand covering Wooyoung's mouth reeling back in pain.

"You really are an idiot, Kang Yeosang." Wooyoung scoffed. "Now we're both stuck here."

Yeosang ignored Wooyoung it seemed, his attention fully on the device around his ankle. Before Jongho could say anything to the blonde, Seonghwa reached for the youngest's arm.

"Let's go dress this." Seonghwa said, pulling Jongho off the ground and leading him towards the medical room.

Seonghwa was quick to get to work, not even warning Jongho before dumping a cleaning agent on his bite mark, making Jongho let out a hiss at the pain. He clenched his teeth and fist, Seonghwa disinfecting the wound and wrapping it up.

"That was reckless." Seonghwa scolded sternly. "He could've really hurt you."

"There wasn't really another way." Jongho replied, watching as the oldest secured the wrapping.

"Even still, Yeosang isn't the same person we remember him to be. You saw how easily he took down Wooyoung. He's trained to be a killer." Seonghwa continued to chide. "We don't know what'll set him off."

Jongho frowned. "He's not a killer. He's just...more aggressive."

Seonghwa let out a sigh, looking Jongho in the eyes. "Just don't...if you keep thinking that way someone is going to get seriously hurt. He may not be a killer but that's what the New World tried to make him."

Seonghwa left the room, leaving Jongho alone with his thoughts and mild pain. Jongho knew Seonghwa didn't really believe his words. The older was just trying to cope. Despite having their friends back, their loves, they weren't completely back.

Letting out a sigh, Jongho left the room. He wasn't quite sure what was going to happen these next few days, weeks, months, but he was going to make Wooyoung and Yeosang remember. He had to.

"Tch, finally." Wooyoung scoffed, rubbing his wrists as Hongjoong held the cut rope. "You're fucking stupid if you think I'm not gonna kill all of you."

"And if you do that, you're never getting out of here." Yunho stated, his arms crossed over his chest. "We're the only ones who can take that anklet off and you're gonna need all six of us alive to do it."

"You're bluffing." Wooyoung challenged.

"Go ahead and find out for yourself, but I can promise you, you won't get out of here alive either."

Heavy tension filled the space, Jongho unable to look away from the intense stare down that was happening in front of the couch.

"Tsk, fine. I won't kill you, but I'll make it so you wish I did." Wooyoung finally backed down, his attention turning to Yeosang next. "Stop moping, it's pathetic."

Jongho's hand balled into a fist at his side at Wooyoung's words. Yeosang was still sitting on the floor, blood still around his mouth. His eyes were looking longingly at the device around his ankle, as if he could simply make it fall off by sheer will alone. It was kind of sad to see.

Walking over to the sink, Jongho grabbed a clean cloth from the drawer and ran it under water. He rang out the excess and carried it over to the blonde. As he approached, Yeosang's head snapped up, his eyes narrowing sharply at the younger. His body went into alert, Jongho trying to make himself seem less threatening.

"I'm sorry I held you down." He apologized, moving closer and crouching down beside the older. "I'm just going to clean you up."

Bringing the cloth closer to Yeosang's face, the younger tensed as the other gripped his wrist. It wasn't a death grip but it was enough of a warning for Jongho to know not to make any sudden movements. Gently, Jongho began to clean off the blood around Yeosang's face, the older letting his grip loosen slightly.

For a moment, Jongho felt as though they were back a few years ago. Yeosang was always kind of a messy eater and the others would wipe the crumbs away as if it were an instinct.

Crash!

Yeosang jerked back at the sudden noise, all eyes now turning to stare at Wooyoung who had knocked over a shelf of books. A mischievous smile overtook his lips.

וווו

C.S

X760.07.12

It hadn't even been three hours and Wooyoung was already being a demon. When he first sat down with Wooyoung in the cafeteria while they were with the New World Brigade, he didn't think Wooyoung would be so...difficult. He seemed like the rest of the soldiers. Emotionless. Now, it seemed like he was out for vengeance.

Is it because he feels threatened? Is he always like this or did we trigger this somehow?

Dodging a punch aimed at San's left cheek, the older let out a sigh. He really didn't want to keep fighting with the younger. Not after what they went through together.

"I should've known you were a spy." Wooyoung stated, trying to throw another punch. "When you tried talking to me the other day, I should've known."

"I wasn't a spy." San said, continuing to block and dodge Wooyoung's attacks. "I didn't know they were coming to save us the next day."

"But you knew they were coming, right?"

San nodded. "And you did too. Think Wooyoung, do you really believe you were with the brigade this whole time?"

"Where else would I have been? Here? With all of you?" Wooyoung asked, trying to kick San's ribs. "You should all stop trying to convince me I was some sort of anomaly like all of you."

"You weren't an anomaly." San sighed, basically pleading with Wooyoung as if it would help him remember. "None of us are. We have emotions and we acknowledge them like all people should. They're what make us-"

"Save your stupid speech for someone who actually cares." Wooyoung spat, landing a punch to San's abdomen. "The only thing emotions have caused is pain and suffering. It creates a divide between people and prevents them from reaching a common goal."

San frowned, his right leg itching to counter Wooyoung. So he did. He sent a kick towards Wooyoung's head, the younger blocking it but still being pushed over from the momentum. "Emotions may inhibit some from come to an agreement, but it helps create perspective and can help us see different sides of the same coin. Emotions can connect us to people and-"

"And it can easily disconnect us too." Wooyoung argued, swiping San's feet with his leg, both of them on the ground now. "Emotions are a wicked disease that creates delusion."

Getting up, Wooyoung walked away from San, clearly done with their little spar in the middle of the living room.

San watched with sad eyes as Wooyoung went to pester someone else. The younger's words echoed in his head.

But emotions are what brought us all together.

וווו

X759.06.29

The prison cell was nothing but concrete. The only thing they had was a bucket in the corner for when nature called.

A shiver overtook San's body, Yeosang shifting to wrap his body more around San to try and keep him warm. While San wanted to be on the outside of their cuddle pile to keep the other two warm, Yeosang insisted that he be on the outside since he was the oldest. Thus, San kept himself wrapped around Wooyoung while Yeosang stayed around San. If someone walked in they probably looked like a group of puppies struggling to stay warm.

The door to the main hall buzzed open, a couple soldiers delivering a single tray of food and a water cup. They set it down on their side of the bars, waiting for one of them to reach for it. San knew better and so did Wooyoung. Unfortunately, while they were thinking not to touch it, Yeosang had already acted and moved towards the cell door, sliding his hand through the bars.

One of the soldiers, grabbed on to his wrist and pulled harshly, making the older slam into the metal bars. The door began to unlock, San and Wooyoung both trying to reach their friend, but we're stopped by cattle prons held by the other soldiers. Jolts of electricity surged through San, his body curling in on itself as he watched Yeosang get dragged out of the cell. San tried yelling out to him, but his teether were clenched tight, the soldiers leaving them to their pain.

It took a minute or two before his body finally relaxed, his arms instinctively moving to wrap around Wooyoung to keep him close.

"W-where do you think they're taking him?" Wooyoung asked, clinging to San.

"I...I don't know." San replied honestly. "But he'll be back. I'm sure of it."

Wooyoung buried his face in San's dirty shirt. "What if they kill him?"

San shook his head, not even wanting to risk the idea coming true. "If they wanted us dead they would've killed us by now, right? I'm sure he's going to be fine."

As fine as one can be...

"Do you think the others are gonna come back for us?" Wooyoung asked, San surprised by the question.

"Of course they are." San assured. "I'm sure they'll bust in any day now and come rescue us. Eight makes one team, remember?"

A chuckle escaped Wooyoung at the last bit. "Okay, Hongjoong." The younger teased.

A while back, Hongjoong thought a slogan would help the team morale. It seemed funny at the time, but now, San held onto it like a promise.

Eyeing the tray sitting just outside the cell, San moved away from Wooyoung to go retrieve it. His leg was still sore from the bullet wound but he didn't dare complain about it.

Dragging the tray over and carefully bringing the glass of water through the bars, San brought it over to the far wall where Wooyoung continued to sit. He would have to make sure to save some for Yeosang when he returned, but right now, Wooyoung and him needed to eat. Who knew how much food they would get in the future. It was best to keep their energy up now.

He frowned at the food. "I feel bad."

"I do too, but we need to keep our strength up."

"What if it's poisoned?" Wooyoung pointed out.

"Then I'll try it first." San said, going to reach for the bread but Wooyoung swiped it first. He took a small bite, chewing it like it was a piece of rubber. He swallowed it, the two waiting a few seconds to see if anything would happen.

"It's pretty stale." Wooyoung said. "But I feel fine."

San nodded, looking around the tray more. A small canister in the middle of the tray caught his eye. He couldn't believe he missed it before. Taking the top off, San stared down at a pile of pills.

"Now those are probably poison." Wooyoung commented, San shaking his head. He'd seen those pills before. Seonghwa had some in the medical room. While these pills were larger in size, the small engraving was the same.

"I think they're to put us to sleep." San said, shaking the container a bit. "I don't know why they'd give us this. Why would we take them voluntarily?"

Wooyoung shrugged. "Maybe it's some sort of test?"

"Maybe..."

Or maybe things are going to get worse before they get better?

וווו

J.WY

X759.11.07

Tossing two pills back, Wooyoung took a small slip of water that was only about a quarter full, leaving the rest for San when he returned from whatever torture they were doing to him.

"Wooyoung, are you sure that's safe?" Yeosang questioned. "You've already had a few pills today and-"

"It's fine." Wooyoung interrupted, feeling slightly agitated by the other. Weeks without proper sleep were finally getting to him. Was it even weeks? Maybe it was months?

"If you can't sleep, maybe we can-"

"I said I'm fine." Wooyoung insisted harshly, lying down on the concrete floor, Yeosang following.

It felt like they had been trapped for years, but Wooyoung was sure that wasn't actually the case. He'd lost track a while ago but he guessed it had only been two or three months since they were captured. Time was kind of irrelevant now, adding more stress to Wooyoung.

"Do you think San is-"

"He's fine." Wooyoung insisted again, his mind feeling like it was going a hundred miles a minute.

"What if-"

"I said he's fine, Yeosang." Wooyoung raised his voice this time, Yeosang shrinking down as he held the younger to try and keep them both warm. Wooyoung's back was pressed against Yeosang's chest.

"Okay...sorry."

Silence filled the room, Wooyoung closing his eyes to try and sleep. The pills were hardly working anymore. What he needed was a stronger dose. The shot injections they would get periodically. That always seemed to do the trick.

Cold hands wrapped around Wooyoung's upper arms, the younger realizing he'd been scratching at his skin again. While Yeosang didn't say anything, his actions said enough.

"You don't have to stop me." Wooyoung grumbled. "I'm-"

"You're fine, I know." Yeosang replied, his tone a little more stern which only added to Wooyoung's irritation. "If you keep scratching like that though, you're gonna regret it later."

Wooyoung scoffed. "Just leave me alone."

"Why are you acting like I'm bothering you when-"

"Because you are!" Wooyoung snapped, feeling his uncontrollable anger boiling inside. "I'd probably be better off dead then stuck in this cell with you."

He didn't mean that. The words came out purely on frustration alone. He didn't need to see Yeosang to know the other was shattered.

"I..." The words seemed to die in Wooyoung's tongue, this deep feeling of annoyance and frustration pumping through his veins.

Just apologize, idiot.

Yeosang's hands moved off of Wooyoung's arms, his body moving away from the younger entirely.

Say something.

"I'm sorry." Yeosang said quietly. "I'll...If you need me, I'll just be over there."

Turn around. Look at him. Say something. Apologize.

"Whatever." Was all that came out, Wooyoung not moving from his uncomfortable spot.

The sound of the main hallway door opening made Wooyoung perk up though, bringing hope that it could be a chance for him to get something stronger to knock him out. To finally get him to sleep.

The cell door was unlocked, San being pushed inside. Even with the dim lighting, Wooyoung could tell San had lost so much weight, barely eating anything despite the three trying to share the meals. He insisted he wasn't hungry and that the other two should keep up their energy instead.

One of the guards went to grab Yeosang, but Wooyoung quickly intervened.

"T-take me instead." Wooyoung volunteered, the guard not really caring about who was next.

A rough hand clamped around Wooyoung's wrist, a pair of shackles keeping him somewhat in check. He was led out of the cell, his anticipation growing higher at the thought of finally being able to get a nice rest.

Being led out of the prison wing, Wooyoung was turned into the interrogation room. His heart rate spiked as he was seated across from a masked man dressed in white but his excitement overruled his fear.

A prick to his right upper arm has his body flinching slightly, a thick substance injected into his veins. It wasn't what he was after though which only fuelled his anger. A device was suddenly put over his eyes, a small shock pricking his temples. He squeezed his eyes closed, opening them up again.

The masked man hadn't even said a word before the door of the room burst open, gunshots ringing in his ears as he watched the enemies fall. The device was pulled from his head, Wooyoung turning to see Seonghwa and Jongho.

"Hurry, we have to get out of here." Seonghwa said, grabbing Wooyoung and guiding him out of the room.

Hongjoong and Mingi had San and Yeosang already, all of them beginning to head for the exit. Alarms began to blare as soldiers began to fill the halls. Gun fire exploded in Wooyoung's ears coming from their side as well as the government's.

A dull yet sharp pain subdued Wooyoung's right leg, making the dark haired boy stumble. Seonghwa's grip had slipped, Wooyoung collapsing to the ground. He tried to stand back up, the bullet buried deep in his calf. He looked up in hopes that one of the members would come back to help him, instead he was met with judgemental glares.

"Get up, Wooyoung!" Hongjoong demanded over the loud sounds trying to drown out his voice.

"Hurry!" Jongho yelled.

Wooyoung tried. He had gotten to his knees but that was as far as he could get. His right leg was dead weight now. Numb.

"We don't have time for this!" Seonghwa said, taking Yeosang, San, Hongjoong and Jongho with him as he ran away.

"I always knew you were weak!" Mingi spat, taking one final shot before fleeing.

Yunho was the last one to remain, his eyes eyeing Wooyoung up and down before letting out a quiet sigh, his head shaking slightly. Raising a pistol up, Yunho aimed it at Wooyoung's head.

Panic and disbelief flashed through Wooyoung's head before it was quickly overtaken by anger.

How could they leave me like that? How can he aim a gun at me after everything we've been through? Did they ever love me? Was I just a-

BANG!

"Wooyoung!" The shout of his name made his eyes fly open, San and Yeosang looking down at him with worry.

It wasn't real...

It wasn't real, just like all those other times...

"Thank goodness." San sighed. "You've been passed out for a long time. We thought-"

"And you woke me up?" Wooyoung questioned with frustration. "You know I haven't been sleeping well."

"Sorry, we were just worried." San replied, sounding a bit hurt by Wooyoung's harsh tone.

"Tch, yeah right." Wooyoung scoffed.

"Why are you still acting like this?" Yeosang asked, his tone not at all accusatory but more hurt and curious.

"Maybe because you two are annoying the hell out of me." Wooyoung replied. "Now, leave me alone. I want to sleep."

Because it's not like you really care about me anyway. You'll leave me one day. You'll leave me behind without a second thought.

וווו

S.MG

X760.07.12

Wooyoung had finally calmed down after messing up the majority of the common area and annoying most of the group. He was now sitting on the couch, watching the others clean up the mess.

"Would you stop pouting already? It's not gonna come off." Wooyoung suddenly scolded Yeosang, the blonde shooting a glare back at him.

Mingi had never really seen the two at odds before. They had a few misunderstandings but never anything too serious. It made Mingi even more curious about what happened to them.

Dumping the last of the glass shards into the trash, Mingi set the dustpan and broom to the side, Yunho going to take the trash out.

Wooyoung got up, presumably to follow Yunho to try and escape. Mingi contemplated following, but he knew Yunho could handle his own if Wooyoung were to try and leave. Plus, the older would probably just yell for help.

Walking over, Mingi sat down on the couch beside Yeosang. There was enough space between them for another person to sit, Mingi not wanting to possibly set Yeosang off again.

The blonde stared at Mingi, observing him curiously while lightly picking at the device around his ankle. It was kind of cute seeing him sulk, but Mingi would say that out loud at the moment. He was in no condition to be fighting right now.

"Why do you let Wooyoung talk to you like that?" Mingi asked, wondering if the older would talk with him.

...

...

...

Guess he won't.

Letting out a sigh, Mingi slouched down on the couch, Yeosang's eyes still trained on him.

San entered the room from his bedroom, his body language concerning Mingi a bit. He seemed scared. Anxious even, as if a single loud sound would make him jump out of his skin.

"Are you okay?" Mingi asked worriedly.

San nodded, but the younger could tell he was lying. Getting up from the couch, he walked over to San. He grabbed the older's hand and they walked back into San's room, Mingi closing the door.

"Are you gonna lie to me again?" The taller man asked, leaning against the door.

San's shoulders rose and fell with his deep breath, Mingi waiting for an answer. They weren't going to leave until they got this sorted. Clearly, something was on the other's mind.

"I'm just...still trying to adjust." San said, his arms wrapping around his body. "It sort of still feels like a dream being back. I was just getting a little overwhelmed all of the sudden."

Mingi moved from the door, sitting down at the edge of San's bed. He patted the space beside him, the younger sitting down.

"You know, you don't have to act like everything is fine with you." Mingi insisted. "You were a captive too. You can tell us if you're not feeling well."

"But Wooyoung and Yeosang both-"

"Just because they're acting different, doesn't mean that you weren't equally as affected." Mingi pointed out, knowing the guilt the other was feeling. "Now, what can I do to help you feel better?"

San looked down at his hands, a silence growing between them for a few seconds. "Can you...can you just lay with me for a little while?"

Mingi nodded without hesitation, moving up the bed as he lied down. They both got comfortable, Mingi wrapping San up in his arms. Mingi wasn't much of a cuddler, preferring just hand holding or smaller, quicker acts of affection. For San though, Mingi would make an exception.

Reaching up, San grabbed Shiber. He tucked the stuffed animal between them, Mingi letting out a soft chuckle. It was nice to see the toy being loved again. After years of occupying the couch alone, got a little sad.

"Thanks. I know you don't really like doing this." San mumbled.

"I'll do it whenever you need." Mingi replied. "The others will too if you ask them. We all missed you a lot, but I know Seonghwa had plenty of nightmares about you being gone."

"Really?"

Mingi nodded. "Pretty much every night."

San stayed quiet for a little while before speaking again. "Can I ask you something?"

"Go ahead."

"Why...why did it take so long for you to come get us?"

The question struck Mingi in the heart. Even he wasn't completely sure of the answer, but Hongjoong and Yunho had discussed it with the group at one point. That was a rough day. Seonghwa and Mingi had argued the most about needing to go back as soon as possible. Jongho seemed to be on their side too, but he was more quiet about his stance. The argument got to the point where they didn't speak to each other for a few days, but reason was eventually seen and they started their plan.

"You'd need to get the details from Hongjoong or Yunho, but it had something to do with security reasons and the fact that we weren't quite sure where they were keeping you." Mingi replied, guilt tugging at his heart. "I'm sorry we weren't faster."

"You came back though." San argued, looking up at Mingi. "And I'm just grateful for that."

"As if we would leave you guys behind." The younger smiled. "Eight makes one team, remember?"

San let out a choked laugh at that, making Mingi's smile grow. He really missed hearing the other's laugh.

"What's so funny about that?" Mingi asked, his tone teasing. "It's true."

"It's just...I said that to Wooyoung when we were first captured and...well, I guess it's just funny hearing it now." San replied, shifting his position. "I thought of it like a promise that you'd come back and I'm happy I was right."

"Don't tell Hongjoong that." Mingi joked, holding San closer. "It'll grow his ego."

San laughed softly, Mingi enjoying the sound. Things weren't going to go back to the way they were, but in that moment, Mingi felt as though they'd never been apart.

Chapter Text

J.YH

X760.07.12

Wooyoung had tried bolting out the door when Yunho had taken out the trash. Of course, the security system the two had worked on years prior did its job well. An invisible wall was formed at the doorway, set off by the device around Wooyoung's ankle. He wouldn't be allowed to leave.

The younger had thrown about every curse word he could think of at Yunho when he returned, clearly not happy by his imprisonment.

Walking back to the living room with Wooyoung following him, Yunho was surprised to see that Yeosang was still in the same spot on the couch. No one else was in the room. He looked like a sad puppy, making Yunho feel a little bad about putting the device on his ankle.

Approaching Yeosang, Yunho felt an instinct to give some sort of comfort to the younger. Even if Yeosang didn't remember him, Yunho still remembered.

His hand hadn't even reached Yeosang before almost getting his finger bit off, a deadly glare shot his way. Yunho quickly reeled his hand away, a wicked chuckle coming from Wooyoung.

"Looks like Yeosang finally came to his senses." Wooyoung grinned. "Good luck gaining his trust back."

Wooyoung moved to sit on the couch beside Yeosang but was also met with similar hostility, making Wooyoung sit at the far end of the couch.

"I'm sorry, Yeosang." Yunho tried apologizing. "But it's for your own good."

"I still don't understand why you're trying so hard to keep us here." Wooyoung spoke. "If what you said is true about us being your friends in the past, have you ever thought that maybe Yeosang and I wanted to forget? That maybe we enjoyed being with the New World Brigade?"

Yunho shook his head. There was no way they'd want to forget. That they'd want to stay in a place that took away their most basic instincts. "I highly doubt that."

Wooyoung shrugged. "Just a thought."

"And why exactly would you want to stay in a place that limits your way of thinking? Of feeling?"

Wooyoung didn't reply, his attention now locked on something else behind Yunho.

"Sorry, didn't mean to interrupt." San apologized quickly, walking out of his room with a spiraled book in hand.

"Not like we were discussing anything important." Wooyoung replied, seemingly disinterested in Yunho now. "What do you have?"

"Just a photo album you made a few years ago." San answered, Yunho noticing the way the corners of his lips began to twitch up.

"Can I look at it?" Wooyoung asked, his eyes narrowing.

"No. You'll just tear it up or something." San denied, continuing to head towards Seonghwa's room.

"And why would I tear it up?"

"Maybe it could help?" Yunho suggested, San now looking at the older. Reassurance seemed to be what San was seeking, Yunho hoping his presence would be enough to try.

Nodding, San walked over and sat down in the spot between Yeosang and Wooyoung on the couch. Yunho moved behind the the furniture, leaning over the back behind San.

Yeosang remained disinterested while Wooyoung watched closely as San opened up the album. The first page was full of group photos, Yunho feeling himself smile at the memories.

"Do you look like someone who wants to leave in these photos?" Yunho asked, clearly able to see how much Wooyoung loved being together.

"These are ridiculous." Wooyoung scoffed. "Just because someone is smiling doesn't mean they are actually happy. Emotions like that create lies."

"But you can see it in your eyes." San argued gently, flipping the page. "You were happy. We were happy. All of us were."

"Happiness is just temporary. So is love, sadness, anger and every other emotion. It's all fleeting."

"And yet, you're getting angry." Yunho pointed out.

Wooyoung glared at Yunho. If looks could kill...

"Like I said before, I was left with such an emotion. If I had it my way, it would be completely eradicated." Wooyoung grumbled. "I'm sure Yeosang feels the exact same."

Yunho glanced over at the other, Yeosang still picking at the device around his ankle.

"What emotions was Yeosang left with?" Yunho asked curiously.

"You haven't guessed?"

Yunho shook his head. "It would be nice if you two came with an instruction manual or something."

Wooyoung rolled his eyes, his arms folding across his chest. "If I tell you exactly what Yeosang and I were left with, I want something out of it."

"And what exactly would you want?" Yunho asked.

"If you have a room to spar in, I'd like Yeosang and I to have access to it." Wooyoung replied.

Looking to San, Yunho wondered if he should discuss the deal with Hongjoong first. It wasn't like it would hurt anyone, right? They didn't keep weapons in the room and it was monitored by cameras so they could still watch them without needing to be in the room.

"Deal." San agreed, Yunho snapping from his thoughts. "Now what sort of emotions can you feel?"

Wooyoung's gaze flicked to Yunho as if he was questioning whether San's agreement was valid to listen to. The older gave a nod, Wooyoung looking back at San.

"The New Word generously left me with most emotions ranging in the realm of anger and pride." Wooyoung replied. "The weeping dog over there was left with varying emotions ranging in curiosity and fear."

That explains some things...

"When you say, "ranging in", does that mean you can still feel a wide range of emotion?" San asked.

Wooyoung shrugged. "You tell me? I'm simply reciting what I read in files. As far as I'm concerned, anger is anger and pride is pride. Instead of asking me questions, why don't you guys just drop me back off and save yourself the trouble? Whatever you're trying to plan, it's not going to work. This is who I am and I'm not going to change."

"That's not true. This isn't who you are." San stated, Yunho noticing the slight waver in the other's voice. "You're someone who loves us unconditionally. You enjoy making memories together and love to tease all of us. You're loyal and-"

"Sounds like you're describing a stranger." Wooyoung said simply. "Now, why don't you tell me exactly why you're not loyal to the brigade? Were you just a mole? Someone who thought they could-"

"I was with you, Wooyoung!" San interrupted, his voice rising. Yunho wrapped his arms around San from his spot behind the couch, tears threatening to fall from the younger's eyes. "I was with you and Yeosang in that...that stupid cell. I was with you during the torture. I...I wanted to protect you. The both of you. I..."

A smug grin stretched Wooyoung's lips, Yunho sending a glare at the younger. He could already tell the other was going to say something.

"How does that make you feel?" Wooyoung mocked, raising his finger to San's cheek. A teardrop collected on the back of it, Wooyoung still grinning like a heartless villain as he pulled it away. His tongue ran along the back of his finger, tasting the other's sadness and guilt. "Cause in all honesty, it makes me feel quite...what's the word you use? Happy? If what you're saying is true, then without you failing us, Yeosang and I wouldn't-"

The meeting room door suddenly opened and the rest of the group walked out, their quizzical gazes reaching the other four on the couch. The silence was heavy, Yunho still holding San as close as he could with the couch in the way as the younger cried.

Wooyoung was the first to speak. "So...about that sparring room?"

וווו

P.SH

X760.07.12

Seonghwa was left to watch Wooyoung and Yeosang spar while the others continued to safe proof the rest of the base. No one was about to die when they just got their team back together. Mostly.

Watching Yeosang pin Wooyoung down for the tenth time in a row, Seonghwa was somewhat relieved to see Yeosang not sulking anymore. He also wondered why Wooyoung continued to challenge the other when the outcome was repeatedly the same.

Letting out a sigh, Seonghwa leaned forward into his knees. He wasn't sure how much longer Wooyoung would want to continue, but his body wouldn't most likely be bruised and sore the next day. Yeosang was strangely merciless. It was unsettling to witness since he usually took it easy when it came to everyone.

Flinching at the sight of Wooyoung getting slammed down onto his back, Seonghwa quickly called an end to their sparring. He wasn't going to continue to watch the younger get beat up.

"I'm fine." Wooyoung insisted, standing back up. His body was stable despite sounding slightly out of breath. "Let's keep going."

Yeosang gave a single nod, his gaze pausing at his ankle monitor.

Is he really still upset over that? It's been almost three hours since we put it on.

Taking the opportunity to strike, Wooyoung aimed a punch to Yeosang's left cheek. He landed the blow, only for Yeosang swipe the younger's feet from under him. Yeosang sat on top of Wooyoung, pinning his limbs down as if he wasn't just harshly punched in the face.

"Okay, you both are done now." Seonghwa ordered, standing up from the bench.

"Why? We can keep going." Wooyoung argued as the older walked over.

Seonghwa shook his head. "I'm not going to watch you beat each other up."

"Then you can leave." Wooyoung stated, getting up now that Yeosang had moved off of him. "Unless...if you can beat me in a match, I'll call it quits for today. If you lose, Yeosang and I keep going."

Seonghwa wasn't much of a fighter. He avoided it whenever possible, but if it would get Wooyoung to stop getting his ass beat, then Seonghwa would at least try.

"Fine, if it'll get you to stop." Seonghwa agreed, making sure Yeosang was out of the way before the other two began their match.

Even though Seonghwa wasn't much of a fighter, he'd spent the last hour or two observing the other two spar. Wooyoung liked to use his fists and was usually on the aggressive stance.

Taking the first swing, Wooyoung hardly waited for Seonghwa to be prepared. Narrowly dodging the first punch, Seonghwa took some tips from Yeosang's fight. Throwing a punch towards Wooyoung, the younger ducked out of the way, Seonghwa taking the opportunity to use the other's weight shift to his advantage. Hooking his foot around the back of Wooyoung's knee, Seonghwa pulled it forward, buckling the other's balance.

Instead of falling down, Wooyoung maneuvered his body around so that he swiped Seonghwa's feet out from under him. Hitting the mat with a thud, Seonghwa was quickly turned onto his back, his arms getting pinned behind his back.

"Looks like I can keep going." Wooyoung said, letting go of Seonghwa's arms and getting off the older's back.

Standing back up, Seonghwa walked back to the bench and sat down, Wooyoung and Yeosang already back to sparing.

"I think he's starting to miss the sedatives." San said, sitting beside the older. The younger wrapped his arms around Seonghwa's torso, Seonghwa wrapping an arm around San's shoulder.

"I guess that explains why he's so...restless." Seonghwa guessed. "Maybe I should give him a small dose right now? Slowly ween him off of it."

Both boys winced at the sight of Wooyoung getting beat yet again by Yeosang, the kick to the side particularly hard. Seonghwa held San close, still feeling like it was all still a dream.

"So how are you doing?" Seonghwa asked, his gaze looking down at the younger.

San nodded. "I'm fine."

Seonghwa frowned, sensing the shift in the others tone and demeanor. "You don't have to lie, San."

"I'm not lying." San replied, defensive.

"You know you can talk to me if you're struggling. You were trapped in the same place they were and-"

"I'm not saying I had the best time in captivity, but I'm still the same person I was when I was captured."

"I'm not saying you aren't. I'm just letting you know that you can talk to me about whatever you're feeling." Seonghwa insisted, noticing the way San's breathing seemed more unsteady now.

"I'm fine, Seonghwa. Really. I didn't have it nearly as bad as Wooyoung and Yeo-"

"It doesn't matter." Seonghwa interrupted, his hand reaching up to comb through San's hair. The younger buried his face into Seonghwa's stomach, wet tears beginning to stain the front of the other's shirt.

"You are still a victim of whatever the New World wanted and you're obviously still affected by it." Seonghwa continued, still running his fingers through San's hair.

"I'm fine. You don't have to worry about-"

"I do worry about you." Seonghwa cut in again.

Why can't he just admit that he's suffering too?

"You said they tortured you before attempting to kill you. You don't think that didn't have any sort of repercussions on your mental state?" Seonghwa questioned.

"I'm not saying it didn't." San mumbled against the older. "I just...I want things to go back to the way it was. I'm fine pushing down the trauma if it means I can live like I used to."

"Things aren't going to go back to the way they were, San." Seonghwa spoke gently, feeling San's grip around him tightening. "We've all changed from this. The rest of us want to help you too, so why can't you just admit-"

"Because it would mean that I'm just as fucked up as the other two!" San finally snapped, lifting himself away from Seonghwa. His eyes were wide in surprise at his own tone and words, Yeosang and Wooyoung both glancing over now.

Tears continued to fall down San's cheeks, the younger burying his face back into Seonghwa. The older held him right, feeling San tremble. "But...but I'm not, okay? I'm fine. I'm here and I'm safe. I'm...I'm fine so you don't have to..."

Pressing his lips against San's temple, Seonghwa began to rub circles along San's back.

"I'll always worry about you, San." Seonghwa said in a hushed tone. "But I know you're safe here. I know you're still going to do your best to smile and pretend everything's okay, but...you don't have to. You don't have to pretend anymore."

וווו

K.HJ

X760.07.12

Seonghwa was in the medical room with Wooyoung to tend to his injuries while Yunho stayed with San, comforting the younger. Mingi and Jongho had left to scout out the state of the government at the moment. At least to see what the streets and main city border were like. Hongjoong was genuinely surprised that the New World hadn't made an announcement about their break in or sent some sort of threat. Usually they would've by now.

Placing a bowl of soup in front of Yeosang, Hongjoong carried his own bowl to sit across from the other. Yeosang's eyes watched Hongjoong carefully, his body's posture stiff and proper. Lifting his spoon, Hongjoong took his first bite of lunch. Yeosang just watched him as the older took another bite and then a third. After the third spoonful, Yeosang finally reached for his spoon and began to eat.

Maybe I can get some answers from him now?

"Yeosang, do you think you can answer some questions I have?" Hongjoong asked, setting down his spoon.

Yeosang copied the other, placing his spoon down in his bowl before shrugging.

"Can you tell me why the New World allowed you and Wooyoung to keep some emotions?" Hongjoong asked, wondering if the younger would tell him. Wooyoung didn't but maybe Yeosang would be less...difficult?

Yeosang shook his head, his eyes meeting Hongjoong's.

"Is there anything you can remember and tell me about during your time with the New World?"

Hongjoong expected Yeosang to shrug or shake his head again, but the other just stared at Hongjoong. His expression was blank, but his eyes were curious.

"Can you tell me why you waited for me to eat before you started?" Hongjoong asked, wondering if this question would be better to start with. It was simple and less daunting.

Yeosang continued to look at Hongjoong. "I'm not allowed to eat until those above me have decided they will enjoy their meal."

"What do you mean by that?"

"If my leader stops after the first or second bite, then I am to wait until we receive a new meal they will enjoy. If you continue eating after three then I am allowed to accept my meal." Yeosang explained.

"And your leader, who were they?"

Yeosang stayed quiet, Hongjoong deciding to change the topic.

Maybe Wooyoung would answer that one for him?

"Is there a reason you consider me as someone above you?" Hongjoong asked. He was older than the other but it had to be more than age the younger was going by.

"You are the leader around here, right?" Yeosang questioned. As if he didn't spend years with Hongjoong. "The others look for your direction, therefore, your poison out ranks mine."

"But...in your current state you seem to believe we're your enemies." Hongjoong replied, trying to figure out more of what the other was thinking. "So why continue those practices?"

Yeosang didn't respond, Hongjoong letting out a sigh. From what he could tell, Wooyoung, Yeosang, and San had very different experiences during their capture time. Different experiences he wanted to learn more about.

Hongjoong picked up his spoon and began eating again, Yeosang watching his moments. After the third bite, Yeosang began to eat his soup again.

Crash!

Bang!

Seonghwa came running out of the medical room, Wooyoung chasing the older.

"I need more!" Wooyoung growled, getting to a point where he could jump onto Seonghwa's back.

"I've given you a reasonable dose." Seonghwa argued, trying to get Wooyoung off of him. "You don't need anymore."

Hongjoong stood up from his seat, rushing over to help remove the raging boy from the oldest.

"What's going on?" Hongjoong asked, already guessing.

"He wants more pain medication-Ow! But I already gave him-Ow! Enough." Seonghwa explained, Hongjoong able to tear Wooyoung off the other.

Sulking over to the table where Yeosang continued to sit, Wooyoung grabbed the bowl of soup and began tb

o gulp it down. Hongjoong was surprised that Yeosang didn't even try to stop him or argue.

"You think three pills was enough?" Wooyoung questioned.

"It is." Seonghwa replied. "If you want any sort of sedative tonight, then you'll stop trying to get more pain meds."

Wooyoung frowned, his arms crossing over his chest as he glared daggers at Seonghwa.

"What if Yeosang needs some?"

"Then he can ask me himself." Seonghwa replied. "I doubt he'll need any since you seemed to be the only one taking a beating."

"At least, I beat you."

"I'm not giving you a sedative tonight."

"Whatever, I don't need or want it."

That's a lie.

Wooyoung was shaking slightly, his weight shifting from one foot to the other.

"Wooyoung, let's go." Hongjoong ordered gently, walking towards the meeting room across the common area. Surprisingly, Wooyoung followed him.

With San, Hongjoong knew the other would need a lot of comfort. It was clear he held guilt about what happened. It would be easier for them to help him since he still remembered who they were.

With Yeosang, it seemed more difficult but the younger seemed to at least be less hostile than Wooyoung. He seemed like he'd be easy to help once they figured out something that worked to bring his memories back.

With Wooyoung though...Hongjoong was a little stumped. The younger was even more stubborn than before. He was fighting them which meant it would be harder for him to see that they don't want to hurt him. But if Wooyoung wanted to be stubborn, then he'd just have to play the same cards. Everyone had a weakness, and Hongjoong figured out Wooyoung's.

Sitting down at his spot at the table, Hongjoong waited for Wooyoung to take a seat before talking.

"Our supplies stocked like what the New World has." Hongjoong began to say. "It would be stupid of us to keep giving you medication and drugs you don't need."

Wooyoung's tongue poked the inside of his cheek, arms crossing. "Like I said, I don't need them."

"I think you want them though." Hongjoong replied. "We can give you what you want but you'll have to cooperate more than you are."

"And why should I? I'll break out of here any day now."

"You underestimate our technology and defense." Hongjoong stated. "You aren't going anywhere unless the rest of us allow you to. If you want, we can talk about this more after a day or two without any sort of drugs in your system?"

"You underestimate my ability." Wooyoung argued. "I'll show you that I don't need any drug for twenty four hours."

Hongjoong smiled, knowing that the other would crack. He hated using addiction as a bargaining tactic, but if it was a way to get Wooyoung to cooperate, then he'd make sure it stayed moderated.

"Great. See you in twenty four hours."

וווו

K.YS

X760.07.12

The anklet was like a ball and chain attached to Yeosang. If his leader found out about it, Yeosang knew it wouldn't be good for him. If he was going to be a captain then he needed to work harder to prevent such things in the future.

Changing into different clothes to sleep in, Yeosang gently placed the dirty clothes into a bin he saw Yunho toss stuff into earlier. The place and people were strange but Yeosang would do his best to try and fit in until he saw an opportunity to get home. He came to the conclusion that this wasn't just a test of sorts. He had been kidnapped.

Unlike Wooyoung, Yeosang could be patient. He would earn their trust and then use the opportunity to leave. Whether or not Wooyoung was with him, Yeosang didn't really care either way.

A knock at the door had Yeosang looking up as it opened.

"Did you want to shower before you go to bed?" San asked, the other's hair still wet from his shower. His eyes looked puffier than usual.

"Am I allowed?"

San nodded. "Of course."

Yeosang continued to stand by his bed, unsure what to do. What did they want him to do? What sort of person did they want him to be? Was he supposed to-

"Want me to show you what to do?" San asked, earning a nod from Yeosang.

The older followed San to the bathroom between both of their bedrooms. San turned on the water, Yeosang watching each movement San made. Reaching under the cupboard under the sink, San pulled out a small, red basket full of shower supplies and a towel.

"This is yours so feel free to use it whenever." San said, placing them near the door of the shower. "Just turn the handle to change the water temperature."

Yeosang nodded, continuing to stand near the door as San began to slip by. He couldn't remember the last time he took a shower alone.

The door clicked shut, Yeosang staring at the shower in front of him. An unnerving pit began to form in his stomach, Yeosang slowly taking off his shirt.

It was so strange, being alone for so long. Usually the only time he was alone was before preparing for matches.

Stripping down the last pieces of garments, Yeosang stared at the shower. Slowly, he walked over and pulled open the frosted glass door. The water was warm against his outstretched palm.

Crouching down, Yeosang went to reach for the bottles inside the basket when the door opened. San quickly looked away, closing the door behind him.

"Sorry, I thought you'd be in already." San apologized.

Yeosang didn't reply. He honestly didn't see the big deal. Was nudity not normal for others to see?

Grabbing the towel, Yeosang wrapped it around his waist. He moved towards the door to leave, San grabbing hold of his arm.

"Do you not want to shower anymore?" San asked.

Yeosang nodded.

"Is the water too hot or too cold?" San questioned.

Yeosang shook his head.

"Do you...do you need help?" San asked, his face contorting into one of confusion.

Yeosang nodded.

"Oh...okay." San said, letting go of Yeosang's arm. "Um...do you want me to get in the shower with you? Or do you want me to just wait out here and help you?"

"You can go in with me." Yeosang answered, curious as to why the other's cheeks were beginning to turn pink.

"Okay, just...one second."

San began to strip off his clothes, Yeosang stepping into the shower. It was much smaller than the one in Paradigm. Not that Yeosang minded. It wasn't like his leader was ever far from him anyway.

Sticking his head under the water, Yeosang let the warm water wet his hair and body.

San shuffled inside the shower, bottles bundled in his arms. He set them down on a small shelf, opening up one of the bottles.

"I guess it doesn't hurt to take two showers." San chuckled as he began to scrub the other's scalp. "I'll just be extra clean."

Yeosang let himself relax at the calming ministrations. He always enjoyed bathing with his leader and this wasn't much different...

Feeling a strange sense of fear bubble up, Yeosang did his best to stay alert. Maybe this was just another way they were trying to get him to lower his guard? He had to stay vigilant.

"Okay, you can rinse this out." San instructed, Yeosang going back under the spray of water.

Sans hands did their best to get all the shampoo out of his hair without the rest of his body getting too close to Yeosang. While Yeosang knew it was best, he couldn't help but want to lean back against the other. His body has already gone a long time without any sort of intimacy and it sparked a certain trigger inside of Yeosang.

He wondered if his leader was searching for him. If-

The sound of another bottle cap opening snapped Yeosang from his thoughts. He left the spray of water and let San massage the conditioner into his hair.

"You know, I don't think we've ever taken a shower together before." San said, clearly looking to fill the void of silence.

Of course we haven't. I'm not from here.

"It feels natural." Yeosang replied, trying to see how the younger would respond.

Maybe now would be a good time to start planting seeds...

San seems like the easiest pawn right now.

"Really?" San asked, sounding surprised. "Maybe you're remembering some things then? At least the feelings, maybe?"

"I...I think so." Yeosang replied, letting his eyes close for a few seconds while San continued to massage his scalp. "We were...in a relationship, correct?"

If I remember right, that's what I've heard them say before.

San's hands stopped moving, Yeosang opening up his eyes.

"San?"

"Do you...do you really know? Do you remember?"

Is it working...

Yeosang nodded. "It's hazy, but I think it's coming back."

Before Yeosang could properly gauge where San's head was at, warm lips were pressed against Yeosang's. Feeling his body go rigid at the contact, Yeosang did his best not to move away despite the fear growing inside of him. If his leader found out he would surely be punished.

Just wait it out. He'll forgive you if it meant your escape back to him.

San pulled away, his expression changing in an instant.

"I'm...I'm sorry. I didn't mean to do that. I just got excited and-"

Don't let him drift away.

Connecting their lips again, Yeosang continued to fight away the fear. He had his way out.

Chapter Text

C.S

X760.07.13

Yeosang was remembering. San couldn't be more elated. If Yeosang could remember then that meant Wooyoung could too, right?

Since waking up, San stuck close to Yeosang. He hoped he could find more ways to trigger memories. More ways to get things back to the way they used to be.

Wrapping Yeosang's back and hand with fresh bandages, San was careful not to hurt him too much.

"Seonghwa might take a look at the injuries again later but hopefully this will help keep them clean." San says, closing up the first aid kit.

Yeosang's eyes were glued to the bandage around his hand, inspecting it.

What's he thinking about?

Yelling erupted from the medical room, San letting out a sigh.

If only Wooyoung could remember.

וווו

X759.11.09

Wooyoung was acting strangely irritable lately. No matter what San and Yeosang did, Wooyoung always seemed annoyed and quick to anger. It might've been due to lack of sleep but knowing what the New World was capable of, something else was at play.

Lying in Yeosang's arms, San kept his gaze on Wooyoung as the younger paced back and forth in their cell. The dark circles under his eyes, dirtied skin, disheveled hair, and quiet mumblings made him seem like a crazed person. Then again, they probably all did.

"Wooyoung, can you please stop pacing." San asked gently, his own anxieties and irritability rising.

The younger glared at him as if he'd just said the most offensive thing.

"It's keeping me calm." Wooyoung scoffed, his pace quickening slightly.

"Well you're making Yeosang and me stressed out."

"I don't hear him complaining."

"Well you-"

The door lock clicked loudly, the hinges squeaking. A guard brought a single tray of food to them and slid it under the bars. He left without a single word or glance spared, not even caring that he spilled some of the soup broth.

Sitting up from Yeosang, San crawled over and reached for the tray to pull it further into the cell to split up. His fingers didn't even get to touch the stainless steel, a sharp smack landing on the back of his hand.

"Not gonna share?" Wooyoung asked, frowning down at San.

The older rolled his eyes, tossing Yeosang the piece of bread on the tray. They had come up with a system of rotating through the same meal received. It was San's turn to eat the chicken and Wooyoung's turn for the soup.

"I was going to do what weve been doing." San assured, some bite to his tone.

"Sure you were. I bet you and Yeosang were going to eat everything and then leave nothing for me." Wooyoung said.

Staring up at Wooyoung, San searched for any sign of humor.

Why would he think that?

"Wooyoung, we weren't going to-"

"Shut up!" Wooyoung snapped at Yeosang, the other flinching at the sudden raise of tone.

San frowned, his eyes narrowing. "Don't yell at Yeosang like that."

"Why not? It's not like he's gonna do anything about it. He's just a pathetic-"

SMACK!

Tension sparked like a live wire in the room. San didn't believe he just slapped his friend, his lover, with such force and anger. His hand stung with guilt. Before he could even form an apology, Wooyoung tackled San to the ground.

Both of them fought to put the other in their place, their bodies rolling and moving across the floor. San tried to stay on the defensive, wanting to get Wooyoung pinned to try and talk some sense into him, but the other wasn't giving him any time to breathe.

"Wooyoung, stop-" San was flipped onto his back. "stop it."

"No." Wooyoung was shoved to the side, San now on top, his hands grasping at air trying to pin the other's wrists. "I won't let you-"

"We're supposed to be in this together!" San interrupted, Wooyoung flipping them again. The younger dug his knees into San's hands. "This is exactly what the-what the New World wants. You're being an idiot."

Raising his fist, Wooyoung smirked. "At least I'm not weak like you and Yeosang. I'm not gonna let you leave me behind."

San braced for the blow to the face. They sparred before where punches and kicks were thrown, but they didn't hold as much malice as this punch was going to. Closing his eyes, San held his breath.

Smack. Thud.

The weight was lifted from his torso and hands, San sitting up. Wooyoung was on his butt, glaring at Yeosang who now stood in between them.

Wet fabric of his shirt clung to his back, the bowl of soup having spilled from the initial tackle. The tray was kicked back under the bars so they couldn't reach it, and the piece of chicken was stepped on and shredded.

"Here." Yeosang said, offering Wooyoung half of the bread which he didn't hesitate to snatch.

Turning to San, Yeosang extended the other half to him.

San shook his head. "You should-"

"Take it." Yeosang insisted, gently shoving the other half into his hands.

"We can split-"

"You need your energy." Yeosang insisted. "Besides, I had the chicken yesterday. I'll be okay without a meal today."

San swallowed his next argument and just took a bite of the bread. He hoped Wooyoung could feel his immense frustration through his glare, but the other was doing the same right back. 

"We're supposed to be working together here." Yeosang reminded with a sigh. "What would the others say if they saw us?"

"What does it matter?" Wooyoung scoffed. "They aren't coming for us."

"Of course they are." San corrected, clutching his piece of bread tighter in his hand.

"You're a fool if you think that. They don't need us."

"Whatever the New World Leaders are doing to you in there, you can't believe a word they say."

"I know. I can think for myself."

"Really? Because it sounds like you're just-"

The door squeaked open again, four guards walking up to unlock the cell, two of them holding cattle prods. They entered with purpose, a cattle prod being aimed at San and Wooyoung. Two guards grabbed hold of Yeosang, tying his wrist behind his back and dragging him to his feet. They forced him out, San's body moving to chase after them. The prod sounded a few zaps too close for comfort. A warning.

Spitting at the guard's feet, San scowled up at the man. They locked the cell back up, leaving Wooyoung and San to their own growing war.

Wooyoung scoffed, a smirk stretching his lips.

"What is it?" San growled, trying not to panic that Yeosang was gone again.

"If you keep giving a shit about Yeosang and I, you're only gonna end up dead."

וווו

C.JH

X760.07.13

Yunho had enlisted Jongho's help to try and hack into the New World's past security archives but there was nothing they wanted. There was no footage of what happened to Wooyoung, San and Yeosang in the time they were gone. As though their experiences and trauma never existed.

"I don't know why you didn't get Hongjoong to help you?" Jongho sighed, staring at three different screens in front of him. Each one held different rooms and times. "He's better with this sort of stuff."

"He's kinda busy with Wooyoung." Yunho replied, scanning through his own number of screens. He'd change Jongho's after a while. "Plus, I know you and Yeosang spent quite a bit of time in here together, so I figured he taught you a thing or two about how to operate this."

"Everything he taught me went over my head." Jongho replied, leaning forward on to his knees while his hands clasped together. "I understand parts and pieces of vehicles and weapons, but computer systems are...complicated."

Yunho chuckled, keyboard clicking away with each stroke of his fingers. Jongho's screens changed. A Ring Match, a random hallway, and a cafeteria. Nothing of note was happening. The typical strict regimen of the New World Brigade.

"I bet you were just staring at him the whole time, weren't you?" Yunho questioned, scribbling something down.

"How could I not? He seemed so passionate about what he was trying to teach me that I couldn't look away."

Yeosang always seemed to light up whenever he talked about things he enjoyed. They all did, but there was a shyness whenever Yeosang did it. It was a rare time the rest got to see into his world.

"You've always been quite enamored with him."

Jongho shrugged. "Who isn't?"

"Fair enough, but you know what I mean." Yunho said. "You've always had a...special bond with him."

Special bond?

"He just...he understood things that I was feeling about all of us. About love. Life. Myself." Jongho admitted, recalling various times it was just the two of them. Jongho missed their occasional late night talks.

Yunho changed Jongho's screens again. Another Ring Match, the cafeteria, a sparring room.

"It's like how you have Mingi, Hongjoong has Seonghwa, and Wooyoung has San." Jongho continued to explain. "Even though we agreed to one big relationship, we still have someone who understands us in a different way than the rest."

"Is that why you avoided this room like the plague when he disappeared?"

...

...

"I don't know what you mean. You understood computers better, so you were a better pick to step into the hacking role than I was." Jongho said, his knuckles turning white as his focus zeroed in on one of the screens. Someone was getting beat up heavily by a group of guards. There was no mercy. They stomped on him as if he were nothing more than a cockroach that wouldn't die.

"That's not what I mean." Yunho said. "You didn't even want to come in here to see what I was working on."

"I didn't need to. The others didn't either." Jongho pointed out, his jaw clenched. "At least, not much."

"You didn't even want to enter my room because his stuff was there. You basically avoided everything hed ever liked or touched. You couldn't even-"

"Because it hurt too much!" Jongho blurted.

...

...

...

"Sorry, I'm just..."

"You know...I've been waiting for you to do that." Yunho smiled, Jongho's brows furrowing.

Clicks of the keyboard roared to life again, Yunho focused back to the screens. The ones in front of Jongho turned off.

"What do you-"

THUD!

Jumping up, Jongho rushed out of the tech room through their planning space. He pulled open the door leading to the common area to find Yeosang trying to keep Wooyoung pinned to the floor. Their recently put back together bookshelf was knocked over again, the books and niknaks scattered around the floor.

Hongjoong and Mingi both struggled to tie Wooyoung's wrists as he shouted at them. After some time they managed to bind the other, Wooyoung still on his stomach. Yeosang began to stand up, setting his hand near the other's face for balance. Wooyoung sunk his teeth into the older's forearm, blood dripping down. Yeosang didn't even flinch. He just stared.

Hongjoong pried Wooyoung's jaw open and San pulled Yeosang against him. Seonghwa rushed to the medical room, Jongho resisting the urge to take a step forward.

San was Yeosang's new buddy all of the sudden. The one he stuck around. This wasn't the same person Jongho could share his insecurities with. This wasn't the same person who would sometimes find Jongho to have a moment of peace away from the others. This wasn't his Yeosang.

Yeosang's eyes suddenly met Jongho's, studying him despite San asking the older multiple questions about his bleeding arm. Even now, it was like Yeosang was reading his mind, sensing his discomfort.

I wish I knew what you were thinking.

וווו

J.YH

X760.07.13

They still had a rebellion to run. Though there were some matters that needed to be taken care of, the New World wouldn't get the upper hand. They had to show Ateez wouldn't be deterred. 

Yunho was left with San, Wooyoung and Yeosang while the others left to try and set up some of their own propaganda in the city to try and draw those still unaffected by the New World to help their cause.

San was pretty occupied with Yeosang, so Yunho had Wooyoung with him as he monitored the rest of the group through hacked security cameras. They were currently trying to set up a giant poster down an alley.

"Do you have anything else I can watch besides your dumb friends fumbling around?" Wooyoung questioned.

"Those "dumb friends" are your boyfriends." Yunho reminded, turning on one of the TV screens in front of the younger. His fingers hit the keys quickly, pulling up specific video footage from a file Yeosang had made.

Maybe this will help spark something in his memories?

"The hell is this?" Wooyoung asked, his chair moving slightly as he jerked his restrained body.

"You wanted to watch something else, so you get to view various video footage you took." Yunho sighed, turning around in his chair to watch.

The video was of them celebrating Mingi's birthday a few years back.

Wooyoung was panning through all of them sitting in the living room. Yeosang was wrapped up in San's arms, Jongho and him were compiling presents in front of Mingi, Hongjoong and Seonghwa were busy trying to distract Mingi from wanting to eat the cake. They'd burnt the cake. It was from a box they managed to steal during one of their missions and they burnt it. Never again did they try to make a cake for birthdays.

"This is stupid." Wooyoung grumbled, but there wasn't as much malice as usual. It was the tone a kid would use when saying a toy is dumb but they really were interested to keep playing with it.

Yunho pulled up another video, one he didn't recognize.

Wooyoung was approaching Hongjoong, the older trying to block the lense.

"Seriously Wooyoung? I'm trying to focus." Hongjoong sighed. There wasn't any annoyance in his tone. In fact, the way Hongjoong turned in his chair to face Wooyoung as he set down his pen said all it needed to.

"Well, your little battle plan can wait." Wooyoung said, plopping himself on Hongjoong's lap while flipping the camera towards them.The picture was centered more on Hongjoong than Wooyoung.

"If I don't plan out our exit routes we'll be sitting ducks." Hongjoong said.

Wooyoung turned his face and planted a kiss against the older's cheek, lightly smacking the other with his hand.

"But I'm bored now." Wooyoung draws out. "Why not take a break and have some fun with me."

"Why not get San or Yeosang?"

"Because they're busy sparring with Jongho and Mingi." Wooyoung replied. "And Seonghwa and Yunho are out gathering supplies."

Hongjoong let out another long sigh. "Fine, I'll take a break, but I really need to plan out our infiltration plan. It's...."

Hongjoong's voice died away in Yunho's ears as his eyes scanned the screen for any sort of date. There was only one infiltration plan and that was the day...

The screens all went black as the video ended.

"I don't know how you guys managed to fake these videos with me in them but it's quite impressive." Wooyoung said. "As if I'd ever-"

"They aren't fake." Yunho interrupted calmly, knuckles white on his knees. "That was the day before we lost you."

The screens lit up again, the next video automatically playing.

"Wooyoung, put that down." Seonghwa said gently, placing their cloaks in the back of the van.

"But I wanna document the momentous day when the New World gets fuc-"

"Since when did this turn into a documentary?" Yeosang asked, the camera shifting over to where Yeosang was setting up the computer in the back.

The view shifts as if Wooyoung shrugged. "It'll be worth something when the world finally wakes up."

The camera shifts, Yunho making a funny face to the camera as he enters the back of the van. Jongho followed behind him, ignoring Wooyoung's filming completely.

"Not even a smile?" Wooyoung teases, following the youngest with the camera.

"I'm trying to make it more authentic."

The screen went black for a second before returning. The footage was shakey as majority of the group was seated in the back of the moving van.

"Who's ready to change the fucking world?" Wooyoung asked, the camera turning to face him. "Because I am."

"Does everyone know the plan?" Hongjoong asked, ignoring the younger's previous comments.

"Yes, Captain." Wooyoung teased.

Yunho still remembered the plan. They'd gone over it so many times before the mission. It made him wonder why it all went downhill.

Hongjoong rolled his eyes. "Nothing can go wrong. If you get even the slightest hint of catastrophe let all of us know. Yunho will be watching us on the cameras but even those have blind spots."

The camera zooms in close to San, the other planting a kiss to the lense before Wooyoung wipes it off.

"If any of you get behind on our timing, let us know. Once your task is completed, head back to the van." Hongjoong continued, the camera turning back to him.

"You worry too much, Hongjoong." Wooyoung said.

"I'm sure everything will be fine." Seonghwa adds, putting his hand on Hongjoong's shoulder. "We've never had an issue before. Close calls, but we always make it out."

"I know but we've never done anything like this before." Hongjoong said. "Actually breaking into the Leaders' Sector is...it's more high stakes."

"But if anything happens, we know you'll come save us." Wooyoung chuckled.

San smirked. "Eight makes one team, remember?"

The footage turns off, Yunho stuck staring into the darkness. They were really naive then. If only they knew what awaited them. If only they had a Plan C. If only they-

"Hmm..." Wooyoung hummed, a wicked smile stretching his lips. "It's a shame you couldn't save me."

וווו

J.WY

X760.07.13

Photos could be altered rather easily but videos were much more difficult to fake. Especially when it looked seamless. Not that Wooyoung believed them though. He just didn't understand why they'd go through the trouble to try and convince him they were ever friends if they're goal was to stop the New World.

Leg bouncing up and down, Wooyoung bit at his nails as he sat on the couch. His head was beginning to throb and he had this strange taste in his mouth. The medical room was locked up so he couldn't sneak in and take anything. He still had a long time before his deal with Hongjoong was met. He could do it. He didn't need the sedative. He didn't need pain killers. He didn't-

"Here." Yunho said, extending a glass of water to Wooyoung.

The younger eyed him skeptically, before cautiously taking the glass. After being deemed not a threat, Yunho finally untied him. Now, he just had to figure out a way to break the anklet and sneak out. There had to he a way to-

"Spar me." Yunho said, Wooyoung turning his head.

"What?"

"Spar with me." Yunho repeated.

Wooyoung narrowed his eyes. "What's the catch?"

"No catch. You just look like you need to let off some steam."

Yunho was taller than him but that never stopped Wooyoung before. There were plenty of soldiers bigger than him which he took down.

"Fine." Wooyoung agreed, standing up. "Let's go."

They walked to the sparring room, Wooyoung teething at the inside of his cheek. Footsteps followed them in.

"Everything okay?" San asked, his eyes looking to Yunho for an answer.

"Yeah, just thought Wooyoung and I could spar to pass the time." Yunho replied.

"Shouldn't someone be watching the group?" San asked, sitting beside Yeosang on the bench.

"They're heading back." Yunho replied, walking onto the mat across from Wooyoung. "What kind of sparring do you want?"

Since the practice wasn't against Yeosang, Wooyoung didn't care too much about the details.

"Just wrestling is fine." Wooyoung said.

Yunho nodded and motioned for him to start. When making the first move, it was crucial to land the hit. At least, Wooyoung found that the quicker you're able to throw your opponent off balance, the better. Knees were a weak spot he liked to go for. Especially when it came to people taller than him.

Aiming for the knees, Wooyoung moved quick. His hand barely grazed the fabric of Yunho's pants before he was shoved to the side. Wooyoung's left side hit the mat since his weight was to his right.

His first mistake.

Getting manhandled onto his stomach.

His second mistake.

Yunho's knee pressed hard into his back, keeping the younger down. Wooyoung continued to squirm and squirm underneath as if he'd somehow wiggle free.

A strange feeling washed over him as if something in his mind was fighting to the surface.

Why does this feel familiar?

וווו

X759.03.13

A soft chuckle filled his ears as his body was pinned down to the mat. Yunho's weight was keeping him down, but that didn't stop Wooyoung from trying. He'd been foolish and was easily knocked over.

"Squashed like a bug." Yunho teased, the weight leaving Wooyoung's back. "You may be fast but you need to analyze more. Always think three steps ahead. Sometimes it's best to let your opponent strike first."

Wooyoung huffed, sitting up. "I think it's better to land the first hit. That way you control the pace of the fight."

Yunho shrugged. "If that's what you think."

וווו

X760.07.13

"Squashed like a bug."

"What?" Wooyoung questioned, the weight leaving his back as he blinked back to reality.

"I had you pinned. Like a bug." Yunho said with a smile. "You still rush into your attacks without much thought of your opponent's reactions."

Wooyoung frowned, a throb in the head making his jaw clench. He scrambled back up, his stance signaling to Yunho he was ready to go again.

Wooyoung made the first attack, aiming for his waist this time. If he could get himself latched around the other, he could then use his legs to pull the other-

Another throb hindered his head, Wooyoung letting out a frustrated growl as the scene seemed to click again.

וווו

X759.03.13

"Your hugs are always the best." Yunho teased as he stood rooted upright.

Wooyoung tried to bring him down but the older wouldn't budge. Letting out a huff, Wooyoung unlatched his arms.

"Why do you have to be so perfect?" Wooyoung pouted, giving up on their spar. He headed to the bench to wipe his sweat and rehydrate.

"I'm just trying to give you a challenge because someday you'll have to fight enemies bigger than me." Yunho said, wrapping his arms around Wooyoung and pressing a kiss to the top of his head. "Honestly, if anyone does give you trouble. Specifically a man, kick him as hard as you can in the balls and then go for the throat or the eyes."

Wooyoung chuckled, turning around in Yunho's arms. "Wouldn't that be breaking bro code?"

Yunho shrugged. "Maybe, but I think your life is more important than some unspoken courtesy."

וווו

X760.07.13

Wacking his forehead with the butt of his palm, Wooyoung tried knocking the thoughts away. They felt like memories but that was impossible. He'd never-

Hands gripped Wooyoung's wrist, stopping his hand from hitting his skull.

"Wooyoung, what's going on?" Yunho asked. The worry in his tone stirred something deep inside the younger. Something familiar, yet still distant. Like his mind was fighting to keep a secret from himself. The blocked sensation made him let out a growl of frustration.

Is it because I need a fix? Is this what it's like to have withdrawal? Am I really-

"Wooyoung, look at me." Yunho demanded, Wooyoung opening his eyes. The older ran his thumb along Wooyoung's cheek, wiping away a tear.

The dark haired boy stared at the foreign wet droplet on Yunho's thumb. Sure he'd shed tears from extreme feelings of frustration or anger, but this was a different kind of tear.

Wooyoung reached up, his fingertips meeting more of these foreign tears. "What's wrong with me?"