Cinnamon and Jasmine - Aftershock

Title:
CINNAMON AND JASMINE - AFTERSHOCK
Original Author:
Samurai Champloo (c) Geneon.
Summary:
Jin has been dealing with things by himself for years...but can he face this alone? Third in
the Cinnamon and Jasmine series.
Rating:
Yaoi/Lemon/Shonen-ai, Thoughts of Hentai, Flashbacks of NC/Rape. Language, violence.
Disturbing images. Oral, anal.
Pairing(s):
(Mugen/Jin), Almost NC Jin/Mugen, Hinted (Jin/Shino), Flashbacks NC (OC/Jin)
Disclaimer:
I don’t have anything to do with the series...God help us if I did.
Authors Note:
It would be best if you read the other two stories first...but this stands on it’s own a little.
Takes place a few weeks after the second story, “Freestyle Love Affair”...Enjoy! *goes to
play with new Samurai Champloo figures*
_______________________________________

CINNAMON AND JASMINE - AFTERSHOCK
CHAPTER TWO

//Why am I such a dumbass?//
Mugen rubbed his temples as he found the inn.
//Something else is going on, he’s not gonna spill it to me, he never does. It’s gotta spiral
outta control, and then he comes for help, when it’s almost too late.//
He was pissed, more so at himself than anyone else.
//You keep hurting him, and flipping out...if you’re so damn afraid of losing him, why
treat him like shit?//
This was all unfamiliar, the act of worrying like this about another. So many years spent
wandering and now his life had a purpose. The more he pictured Jin’s tear soaked eyes,
and grief stricken face, the more he felt like living...if only for the single reason to make
him return to normal.
//You are so hooked...//

His features lightened as the lame Red Cow statue came into view. As he walked closer he
seen a figure sitting on the small step, in front of the inn.

“What the hell are you doing out here?” The Ryu-kyuian smiled, waving.

Jin blinked sleepily, looking up. He had stepped outside for some air, and got lost in
thought. Not hearing the other he simply saw Mugen, eyes widening as he got closer.

“Mugen!” The ronin jumped to his feet, scrambling towards the swordsman.

“You’re gonna get si-” He stopped his speech abruptly, as Jin locked onto his chest,
almost taking his breath away.

“You...you came back. I’m so sorry...” The pale one held on for dear life. Knowing he
was insane for worrying so much about such a usual worry, but couldn’t help it. He
needed Mugen near him, especially now.

“Yeah...” The tan one was stunned. He had been practicing his apology with the lone
wolf, all the way from the bar. This was not what he expected at all. “I’m sorry too.”

“No, it’s not you’re fault, it’s mine. I’m losing it, and treating you badly because of it. But
not anymore...” He looked deeply and a little panicked at the caramel eyes. “No matter
how stupid or insignificant, I’ll never keep any secrets from you...No more lying about
how I feel. Is that what you wanted?”

Mugen reached his hand out and caressed the porcelain face. “I want you to be yourself
again...snooty and way too sexy for your own good.”

Jin sighed a little, changing to the saddest excuse for a smile Mugen had ever seen. “I’m
not snooty, as you say.” Leaning his head against the tan ones shoulder. “Please don’t
leave again...I can’t handle it.”

The Ryu-kyuian noticed the small hitch in his voice. “I won’t, I’m stupid for acting like
that anyway, but you knew that when you met me, ne? C’mon let’s go inside.”

Jin nodded then paused. “Oh...”

Mugen blinked. “Oh what?”

He looked away sheepishly. “I may have invited Fu into our room for the night. She’s
sleeping now...”

“You what?” He gasped. “I was gonna fuck you...”

Jin leaned against him, smiling at his language. “I’m sorry...Her room is available,
however.” There was a teasing nature to his voice.

“Way too sexy for your own good...Lets go.”

- - - - -

Mugen told himself to use something he never had. Patients. As he began kissing the ronin,
he ignored the tense nature of his love. The small things that hinted to the swordsman he
was not okay. Hoping that if he was constant and slow, that he would give in eventually.
Running his hands calmly through the lose raven hair.

“I will show you back to yourself...” He spoke directly into the delicate ear.

“Mugen...” He couldn’t help the small sigh, as the sensation made him shiver.

This only filled the tan one with a greater need, as his kisses became more intense. He
could feel the ronin slowly beginning to relax his shoulders.
//Yes!//
His little celebration was interrupted by Jin, beginning to remove the black shorts.

“Eh?”

“You have done so much, will you let me do something for you?”

One look into the smoldering dark gaze and he was lost. Despite his earlier plans, there
was no way in hell he’d turn that down. Nodding slowly.

“I love you Mugen.” The ronin lowered himself to his knees, working harder to remove
the thin fabric.

All Mugen could think off was how much he loved looking down and seeing Jin there. It
was an amazing feeling he would never understand. A powerful sensation, like the snowy
beauty was praising him and his dick. Knowing Jin would never do such a thing in front
of, or for anyone else...that Mugen was his first, and if he had his way last.

Then thought turned to a blur as the warm, wet lips encircled him. No foreplay or teasing,
his koibito got right to the point. Mugen latched his hands carefully into the long black
hair. “You’re amazing...” His eyes flamed downward, watching the lovely head bob
rhythmically. Lifting the dark bangs so he could see all of himself being devoured.

Jin tried not to think of anything else but how much he loved the other. To hell with
anything else he was feeling. How tired he was, or the fact he just wanted to lay with him.
Mugen had needs, and if he could not satisfy them, then how could he keep him?
//Just because I cannot enjoy sex anymore, doesn’t mean he can’t...//
Using his tongue more, to try to wrap this up, he used his hand to pump what he couldn’t
take.

“Fuck...” Mugen tensed, grip tightening on the silky tresses.

//This is it...//
Using all his skill he tried to completely overwhelm the tan one. And in the few awkward
jerks he made, the milky substance began billowing out, as the hand in his hair became
near painful.
//Thank you...for allowing me to do this...even though...//

The pale one sat back, wiping his mouth. Looking up, only to see Mugen staring down at
him, still holding lightly to his hair.

“You are the most beautiful thing I have ever seen...” He sat on his knees as well,
capturing the rose lips in a sensuous kiss.

//I’m so sorry Mugen...that I let this happen...//
He tried to enjoy the kiss, but his thoughts were making him nauseous.
//I wanted to be yours only...I ruined it...//

“Jin?” Mugen sat back from the kiss, feeling the other shake. “Please, tell me what’s
wrong...”

The ronin closed his eyes. “I’m sorry...for letting that man have me...”

Mugen looked into the eyes as they opened, it was the saddest view he had ever
witnessed. It ripped his heart out and made him want to scream.

“You know that wasn’t your fault!” He grabbed the shoulders, trying to make those dying
orbs look at him.

Jin shook his head ‘no’, avoiding the gaze.

Mugen wanted to scream, to yell at, and shake the man in front of him.
//You idiot...how could this possibly be your fault?!//
Instead he held still, continuing to wait for Jin to look at him.

“I am a capable swordsman...the fact I let this happen alone will haunt me forever. The
fact I have soiled what is yours is worse.”

“You’re mine, but not like you’re saying! I don’t see you as soiled, or dirty! I see you as
the same person I saw before that goddamned bastard came around!” His anger was
spilling, despite all his attempts to stay calm for Jin.
//I can’t take this shit, what do I have to do?!//

“I’m sorry I’m acting like this...” Jin sighed, trying to sit up straight. Noticing Mugen’s
volume level rising. “...Believe it or not, it was not my plan to start arguments, and anger
you. I actually...want to hold you.” He laughed a little. “You know, this is what scares me
the most...laughter. I am not one to laugh, I do, but rarely. Recently I keep feeling the
need, but it’s not a sane laughter I think. Like right now I’m clearly rambling, and my
mind says to laugh...isn’t that frightening?” Jin finally looked at Mugen, confusion and
exhaustion on his face.

Mugen had an ultra serious look on his face. One, because he had no idea what the hell Jin
was talking about. Two, because whatever it meant; it was making his treasure appear
very upset. Knowing he would never be able to help him with words he tried his usual
method. Leaning down to kiss the somewhat startled ronin.
//Why can’t I do anything to help him?!//
Mugen kissed with a fiery passion, echoing his overwhelming need to do
something...anything. Roaming his hands freely over the still clothed body.

“I will find a way to save you.” He pulled back long enough to speak, grabbing Jin’s head
to deepen the kiss.

While the ronin was beginning to lose himself a little, his mind wasn’t.
//There are better ways than choking me with your tongue.//
He tried to pull back from the soul searching kiss, for air. Only to have Mugen hold
tighter, refusing to stop until he found what he wanted.
//Save me? From what?//
The tan hands began to grope lower, kneading the mass of flesh at his core.

The ronin’s heart beat jumped. His body was reacting, hell why wouldn’t it? He wanted it,
needed it. The craving was clawing at him, but this nagging fear was floating high above.
Like it would pounce the moment he gave in, and devour him. At times it felt like too
much to bare, and his sword starting looking better and better. He even pondered jumping
off a bridge...But then he wouldn’t see Mugen, and couldn’t imagine living in any realm
without the unruly pirate. Never did he imagine he could find this kind of love. He never
believed in it...until those days at Ku’s. He realized he did love, and very strongly at that.
So much that he ached when the tan one was gone.
//So why is this happening?//
‘Because you were weak...in a moment you ruined everything. You are not fit to be
touched.’ His brain countered his plea.

A brief moment fluttered around him. His childhood, the dojo, the day his life as he knew
it ended. All of it seemed to play behind his closed eyes, as Mugen ravaged his mouth.
//You have always been unworthy.//
Silent tears slipped from his eyelashes.
//Everything you love, will always be taken...it has never failed.//

Mugen stopped when a steady wetness began to touch his face. Sitting up he seen Jin
crying without a sound.

“Why?!” He asked in a sad, feral voice. Holding on tightly to the small form. Finally
giving up, realizing no amount of kissing or sex would fix this. His gut tightened as his
mind answered.
//This is something serious...I don’t think, I can do this...//

- - - - -

The next day started awkwardly. Fu waking up in terror as Jin was gone. Only to be face
to face with Mugen’s naked ass laying on top him, in her room...

The Inn Keeper cut a deal with them. If they would get jobs close by, and pay at least
10% of the room fee, they could stay. Seeing as a huge downpour started, and it didn’t
look like it would end any time soon.

Fu got a job as a waitress at the Inn, seeming to fulfill the task fairly well. Mugen was
supposed to be looking into something...but all Fu seen was a large beetle. Jin had found a
man that said he had a job for someone good with a blade...Unfortunately it was at a
grilled eel stand.

It had only been five minutes on the job, and he already felt lost and suicidal. The man
long since leaving him, without a clue as to where he should begin. If they didn’t need
money so badly he knew he would bail. Run and never look back.

Sleepy onyx eyes gazed into the heavy rain. In this weather no one would be stupid
enough to buy eel. Let alone sit and eat one.
//This is pointless.//
He was about to put his head down, when footsteps sloshed nearby. Standing, he seen a
woman walking closer. Long ago he had decided his interest was in men, he never gave
the opposite sex many looks. But this woman seemed different. Almost instantly he felt
the need to call out to her, completely shocked as to why. Not knowing what he would say
or for what reason. Her eyes...they were as lifeless yet alive as the eels in the barrel.

“Heh, are you actually open?” She came within vocal range, stepping under the eel hut’s
small awning.

His mouth opened to speak, but all he could do was stare at her eyes.
//Why is this happening?//

“Are you okay? Maybe I should go...” Her features twisted slightly.

“N-no. I’m sorry...Yes we are, um opened.” It was at this point he realized he didn’t even
know how to cook eel. His eyes almost asking how does it get from barrel to cooked on
sticks?
//This could be awkward.//

“Well then, I guess I’ll take one order.” She smiled at him, sitting on the little stool. “That
feisty little guy right there.”

His heartbeat quickened, and he turned to keep the slight pink tint to his face hidden.
//Okay, don’t panic. Just cut it open and...cook it.//
Taking a deep breath he reached in to grab an eel. Only it slid easily out of his hands.
//Not good.//
Calmly he tried again....and again.
//Why? Why do the creatures of the sea mock me? Did I anger a water spirit somehow?//
His brows unfurrowed as he grabbed hard, managing to get a hold of one. Pulling it out
quickly.
//Yes!//
But before he could get it on the cutting board; it jerked out of his hands, falling into the
water and splashing all over him.
He remained still for a moment, smoothly taking off his glasses to dry the water. Trying to
hide his mortification.

“You’ll never catch an eel with force.” She stood up, moving behind the counter. “You
must move quickly, anticipate it’s moves.” In one swift motion she stood behind him,
sliding her hands down to take his. Moving them into the murky barrel.

Jin stood frozen. He didn’t expect this, and didn’t expect the feeling he was beginning to
have. Something he had hoped would only be for Mugen.

“Now.” She squeezed his hands lightly, and together they brought up the subdued eel.

The woman took it carefully and lay it on the board. Swiftly stabbing a spike through it’s
head to secure it.

Jin remained stunned, watching the mysterious woman work.
//Who is this woman?//

She spoke softly, and with meaning, but he couldn’t hear her. He just watched her
beautiful hands slice the bloody creature. By the time the eel was prepared she moved
positions, to sit on the stool. Staring happily at her newly made dinner.

“How much do I owe you?” She began to eat.

He blinked aware. “I couldn’t possibly ask you to pay. You made it yourself.”

“So, why is a samurai running an unagi stand?”

He frowned, looking away shyly. “This isn’t what I normally do. I’m not a samurai, and
this isn’t my stand. I am working to pay for lodging.”

“A wanderer then?”

The two began to speak, about nothing at first. Then on to more meaningful things. As she
stood to leave after her final words, Jin stared in awe. His entire world seemed to be
shifting, even more than before.

She walked away into the night, until he couldn’t see her anymore.

He walked out slowly, looking back to the spot where she disappeared.

- - - - -

As Jin walked into the room he vaguely heard Fu and Mugen arguing, probably about
money. He dropped a bag of unagi leftovers on the table, and walked straight to his futon.
Collapsing on it with a loud sigh. Way too tired to want to know what was going on.
Tonight had been too long, and too weird.

Fu and Mugen stopped their arguing, looking at the now half asleep ronin.

“Are you okay?” Fu began.

Jin didn’t reply but raised his hand sleepily; waving it to indicate a yes, before returning to
his face down slumber.

“O...kay? You just sleep then...I got some tea if you-”

“Sleep.” He spoke into the pillow loudly, hoping they would not try to pry further.

“Right.” Fu turned to look at Mugen, who shrugged.

She walked to the door, waving for the tan one to follow her to her room. They arrived in
moments, Mugen slumping down the floor. Sitting looking around at the very different
room. He had been their before, but never really seen it.

“What do you think all that was about?” Fu sat across from him.

“Hell if I know. Why’d you bring me here anyway?”

“I had something’s I wanted to tell you...about Jin.”

Mugen listened at full attention as she relayed the events of the night he left.

“What the fuck can we do? It’s not like you can talk sense into him, I tried that.”

“I don’t know...but what we can do is watch him. Just in case he might feel desperate and
try something stupid.”

“Right...anyway, I’m gonna get out of here, see if he’s okay.” Mugen walked slowly to
the door, really wanting to thank her for helping. “Night...” He decided it best left unsaid.

Fu sighed as he left, laying on her own bed. Jin’s idea wasn’t all that bad.

“Sleep.”

- - - - -

Mugen walked silently into the room, seeing Jin had moved to sleeping on his back. Hand
over his face to block out the lantern’s. Seeing the dull light spill over the wondrous flesh,
made him want to pounce like a lion. But that wasn’t gonna work, he learned that last
night.

So instead he removed his haori, and white shirt. Crawling to lay beside the out-cold ronin.
Immediately Mugen noticed he smelt of eel, and smoke. Seeing traces of black soot on the
flawless face. He still had his swords on, lodging uncomfortably into his hip, and his
glasses. Mugen wanted to remove them, but didn’t want to wake the sight. It was too good
to let end yet.

His eyes traced the usually silky hair, looking disheveled because of the humidity and
whatever made him so tired.
//Dirty little angel...//
He blinked.
//Not dirty...just angel.//
He made sure he corrected. Leaning up to quickly kiss the lovely face, not able to resist.
//At least he’s not worrying...hopefully.//

- - - - -

As the ronin walked slowly to the unagi stand, his mind was drifting to yesterday. The
mysterious woman, he couldn’t help but wish she would come back.
//Who is she? More important, why did I feel that way around her?//
Mud splashed carelessly, soaking his tabi and hakama bottoms.
//I have never had that feeling around a woman...I think, I was attracted to her.//
His mind changed to Mugen.
//But that can’t be possible. I love Mugen.//

Still, he couldn’t deny his urge to see that woman again.
//She is gone...you will never see her again.//

“Oi, you’re early! No one ever comes early!” The bristly man at the vendor smiled
eagerly.

“Yes.” Jin kept his eyes avoided. Not really caring to start a conversation. Not really
wanting to be there at all.

“Great, I’ll make it home before the rain! Well, see ya...sure you don’t wanna have a little
break with me first? They got this nice dice parlor...”

“No, thank you.”

“Loosen’ up will ya...sheesh. Bye then...” Looking crestfallen, the owner walked off
sighing.

Leaving Jin alone, staring blankly at the barrel of eels. Realizing the only reason he was
there, was in hope that the woman on his mind would return.

- - - - -

“Mugen?! Why are you here?” Fu gasped, seeing the tan one flop into a seat.

“You know that job I was talking about?”

“Did you get it?!” Her eyes lit up.

“Heh, not exactly. I think we should stay away from the south section of town for while.”

Fu deflated. “You jackass...” She was too tired to yell.

“Jin left early...I was still asleep. You see him?”

The girl smirked a little, now she knew why Mugen was here. “Nope. He was already
gone before I left. He’s working...unlike some people...”

“I know that.” He rolled his eyes shrugging. “He was just weird last night. I wanted to
make sure...I dunno that he doesn’t die or anything.”

“Aww...are you worried about your koibito?”

Instantly his face twisted. “Keh, whatever. Not two days ago he was crying and suicidal.”

“Maybe he’s losing himself in work to clear his head?” Fu wiped the table for the fifteenth
time.

“Yep, nothing like a boring ass eel stand. I doubt that’s what’s up.” He sighed putting his
head down. “You think he’s avoiding us cause he’s embarrassed?”

“That’s a possibility.” Under her teasing the girl was concerned too.

“Where is this stand at, anyway?”

“I think it’s on the other side of town...whatever you do Mugen, please don’t get him in
trouble. We need this cash.”

The tan one stood. “Heh, when do I ever cause trouble?” He walked off with his hands
behind his head.

All Fu could do was stare.
//Only every time you breathe.//

- - - - -

“C’mon, hurry it up! I’ve been here for an hour!”

“Where are my orders?! I’m going to be late!”

“In a minute...” The smooth voice tried to sound calm.

“I could have caught it and cooked it by now!”

Jin sighed, trying to swallow, an old samurai trick to calm oneself...but not this time.

Due to a break in the rain, people were pilling in, as he was the only one still open. Try as
he may, the process wasn’t working. He was doing everything wrong, and considering
killing everyone in sight...including himself.

He tried to lay the makeshift skewer one the grill; only to have a hot ember pop, and land
on his forearm.

“Hhh!” The pale hands dropped the meat to the floor, holding the wound to his mouth.
//That is it!//

“Heh, looks like you could use a hand...”

He froze, turning, arm still pressed against his lips. It was the woman from last night, she
smiled walking up to him.

“Who’s next? Keep ‘em comin’!” The lady called out, tying her sleeves back.

As the people poured out orders, Jin stared in complete awe.
//She came back...//
She has orchestrating everything with military precision. Watching her move was like
watching a lovely spider weave it’s web to the ronin. All arms and legs going in frantic
directions; yet creating a smooth, superhuman product.

Blinking back to reality, he hastily dropped his throbbing arm, blushing slightly. “Really,
you needn’t do-”

“Here.” Not missing a beat she chucked his a cold wet cloth. “That burn looks serious,
better cover it.”

The ronin blushed again, every time she looked at him his legs turned to ramen.
//Why is she making me feel like this?//
Dazedly he took the offering; wrapping it around, standing next to her to help.

“You handle the sauce, heh, stay away from the fire. C’mon!” Her smile lit up as she
nudged him playfully.

“Right...”

- - - - -

“Wow, never thought I’d be happy for the rain to return. Where did all those people come
from?” The lady sighed, sitting down ungracefully.

“The other vendors don’t bother opening in this rain.” Jin continued to clean the stand,
washing the counter as he prepared to close up for the night. His own feet screaming in
protest.

“You sure this place isn’t yours? I should be getting a raise.”

Jin watched her wink. A laugh he found more intoxicating than strong sake.
“Please...would you tell me your name?” Finally he willed enough courage to look at her
eyes.

“It’s Shino...and you?”

“My name is Jin...”

A peaceful silence filled the empty street. Only the sound of falling rain and mud washing
down the ditches.

“Miss Shino...why is it that you returned here?”

“Maybe I came back to see if you were here.”

His heart leapt.
//What?!//

“Isn’t it normal for a girl to wonder about a beautiful samurai?” She propped her chin up
on her hand, as she leaned forward tiredly.

Jin took the rag, turning to wash it off.

She frowned a little. “I’m sorry if that was out of line.”
//I must have angered him...//

“No...” He kept his back to her.
//What do I say?! That I came here for the same reason? But what about Mugen?//
His hands blindly completed the task. “...I hoped...I would see you again as well.” When
he swallowed, it felt like a coin was in his throat.

“Really?” Her face brightened.
//Heh, maybe I didn’t mess up.//

Jin turned to face her, eyes low. “I sincerely hope you do not foster romantic hopes...I am
in a relationship with someone.”

“Oh...” Shino sighed. “Who is she?”

His brow twitched. “Not a she.”

“Ohh...” Her eyes widened. “I see, well, who is he?”
//So much for that idea...//

“...” He opened his mouth to speak, but couldn’t.
//How would you even describe Mugen?//
“He is untamable...completely unpredictable.”
//That’s close.//

“Sounds fun...”

Jin sighed, some of the nervousness fading. “At times he is too much. I often wonder
about my sanity for staying.”

“Oh?” Her brow raised.

“We have been having some problems...communication...I cannot talk to him in the way
he desires. Despite his exterior, he is very open. His emotions clearly viewable.” Jin
blinked, shaking his head slightly. “Forgive me...”
//I almost forgot she was there.//

“Please, go on...my life is so terribly boring.” Her warm smile encouraged him to
continue.

He swallowed, shifting his feet a bit. “All right...as I said, he is open. I am not...usually.
You must get the wrong impression from me speaking. I am not usually like this.”
//What are you doing?! You are practically babbling.//

She nodded and he took a breath.
//He’s certainly nervous...heh.//

“Would you like some water?” He asked.

“Actually, I’d rather have tea.”

As he quietly prepared the drink, she watched him...
//Maybe he’ll loosen up a little now...//

A few days ago she had passed a bridge, she saw the ronin staring down at the water. Her
whole soul said he was going to jump, killing himself. She tried to call to him, but the
crowd drowned her out. Before she could approach, the blue clad form wandered off;
tense look to his delicate features.

Ever since she had been looking for him. Finding him twice in a row was fate, she
decided. Homosexual or not, she had to know what was drawing her to this man.

“Thank you.” She took a sip.

“I must be leaving soon...it is late.”

“Please, don’t let me keep you.”

“It is fine, take your time.”

“So...finish telling me about your unpredictable friend...”

- - - - -

“Where the hell have you been?” Mugen raised a split brow, arms crossed.

Jin blinked, he wasn’t even inside yet. Mugen was sitting on the step outside, already in
interrogation mode.

“Work.”

“Work? This damn late?”

“It was a busy day...the rain let up.”

Mugen raised his chin, eyeing the ronin. Like he could smell something was wrong.
“Bring back any leftovers again?” His face decreased in intensity.

With a sigh, Jin held up a small bag. Trying not to smile at him.
//I’ve missed you today...//

“C’mon.” The tan form stood, now clearing the path to their room.

//I suppose it’s like a toll...//
He did smile as he followed behind, covering his mouth. He wrote it off as being tired.

“Make any money today?” Mugen fell to sit on the floor.

“I am paid weekly.” Jin sat slowly on his knees, legs throbbing.

Walking for days on end was one thing. Standing in the same spot for eleven hours was
torture.

“That blows...” Mugen ripped open the bag, beginning to devour the eel pieces. Smaller
chunks or pieces that broke off. Most of Jin’s attempts before Shino arrived. “But this
sucks more...was this on fire at one time?”

Jin covered his mouth as a small laugh escaped. “Actually...yes.”

“You get paid for this crap?” The papaya lips smiled, hearing Jin laugh again.
//Maybe that little bitch was right, this job really is helping him...what the fuck is up with
that?//

“Apparently.” He sighed, shutting his eyes.

“...You eat?”

Jin shook his head. With all that happened today, he had forgotten.

Promptly Mugen held out the last of the unagi. The ronin leaned forward and took it with
his lips. Stopping to kiss Mugen’s fingers.

The tan one stared carefully, taking his hand back.
//Maybe he’s ready to try again?//
“What was that for?”

Jin finished chewing before he spoke. “It’s unlike you to part with food...it means a lot to
me...”
//That sounded so stupid...//

“O..kay. Now you’re scaring me...what’s up with the mood swings? Last time I saw you,
awake, you wanted to die. Now you’re all mushy?”

Jin looked down.
//Should I tell him about Shino?//
He chewed the inside of his mouth.
//Knowing Mugen, he will accuse me of infidelity...it’s not like that at all...What is it
like?//

Mugen shook his head slowly. “You’re so fucked up. Thank God for that ass...” He
crawled over to kiss the startled form.

//No...she will remain a secret...no one has to know.//
Jin opened his mouth against Mugen’s prying tongue.
//As long as I don’t let on.//

“Mmm...lay back.” Mugen’s voice was lusty and a little demanding.

//Why am I doing this?! This is exactly what he was talking about. I’m keeping things
from him again.//
Jin closed his eyes as Mugen held him down lightly.

The tan one looked down at the milky splendor, as he opened the blue gi. Jin’s eyes were
closed and he looked a hundred miles away.
//At least he’s not freaking out.//
Mugen continued to kiss down the smooth stomach.

//She is just someone I ran into. I don’t know why she is there...//

Undoing the hakama, Mugen quickly pulled the fabric down.

//I will tell him eventually, she may even leave.//

Mugen took the soft pink organ into his mouth, sucking firmly.

“Hh...” Jin gasped. He had almost forgot what was going on. A small twinge of pleasure
began to run down his thigh.

//Hey, this is looking good so far.//
Mugen continued to tease and suckle.

Instead of the fear or panic, right now all he could think about was Shino. All day she had
been so close, smelling so pleasant over the other aromas. The smell, dainty hands
continuous in their tasks.

Jin moaned low, arching up against Mugen.
//Uh...Miss Shino...//
His face reddened as he imagined her full ruby lips, sliding up and down as Mugen’s
were. Sharp tongue darting to places that had him shaking.

“Ohh...” He arched again, biting his lip.
//I cannot bare it...it’s been so long since I could-//

His thoughts were silenced as Mugen dipped his tongue into the tiny slit. Jin’s toes curling
as a deep moan resonated, panting increasing. Mugen’s speed increased, as the pale one
shook.

//Shino...uh...I want you...//
His hands gripped the futon under him.
//I want to fuck you...on the unagi counter...//
His legs squirmed helplessly as Mugen sucked harder.
//Shino...//

The ronin cried out loudly as he poured into Mugen waiting mouth. Flow continuing long
and steady as Mugen pressed on his taint.

“Kami!” Jin arched, snapping him back to the fact he was with Mugen.

“Damn, that was fucking hot.” Mugen sat up, wiping his mouth. “I actually came just
now, heh.”

Jin lay still, gasping for air; trying to figure out what the hell just happened.
//You had one of the most intense orgasms of your life...thinking about her.//
Guilt tried to settle, but the intense rush coursing through his veins kept it at bay. His eyes
remained closed as his breathing evened out, almost asleep until someone nudged him.

“...Jin?” Mugen laughed, hovering over his silent lover.

“Eh?” He blinked sleepily.

“Heh, nevermind...”

Mugen gave up, pulling a blanket to cover themselves. Settling Jin against his chest, as the
exhausted form was lifeless.
//I don’t think he’s ever came like that...//
Knobby fingers brushed the coal bangs back. Porcelain face still kissed crimson from their
act.
//Maybe he’ll be okay now?//
Mugen fell asleep with a smile on his face.

- - - - -

Jin woke up slowly. Feeling unusually tired and groggy. As he tried to pry himself up
from the arm around his waist.
//That’s right...last night. I...while with him...about her...//
His stomach churned at the scattered thoughts.
//What am I doing? How could I have done that? And on top of it all, I had been so
freaked out before with him. It was only thinking of her I was able to let go. Why?//

“Will ya stop wiggling? You gotta piss or somethin’?”

Mugen’s throaty morning voice caused him to jump. “Mugen?!”

“C’mon I’m tired.” He pulled the arm tighter, pulling Jin back down.

Jin sighed, relaxing a little. “...Yeah.”
//You can’t let on, remember? Stop acting so suspicious.//

The two lay peacefully until reality returned to the ronin. He sat up abruptly, pulling
Mugen’s arm. “What time is it?! I have to go to work!”

Mugen only growled, rolling over; as Jin frantically got dressed.

- - - - -

“I am still early?” The ronin blinked.

“Yep...too bad you’re leaving after the rain. See ya tomorrow.”

The shop keep left as Jin stared.
//I suppose I overreacted a bit.//
Taking his now familiar spot, he took a deep breath as he stared at the eel.

“Do you all think she will come back today?”

He smiled before gasping, frowning as his eyebrow twitched.
//Now you are talking to eel...what has this woman done to you?//

- - - - -

“You’re late again!” Mugen gruffed as Jin walked into the small room.

“I closed as early as I could, here.” He chucked him a bag like the nights before.

“Whatever, I don’t see what’s so damn interesting about eel.”
//Why the hell is he looking at me like that?//
Mugen thought as he began to eat.

“I did not say it was interesting.”
//It’s not the eel at all...//

“Yo, creepy eye, you want somethin’?”

Jin almost blushed. As thick headed as Mugen was, he could be perceptive. “Maybe I do.”

“Eh?” He raised a brow as he chewed.

Before he could ask why, Mugen was silenced by Jin’s lips. Hot and heavy against his.
The pale hands were ravaging his bushy hair.

“Mugen...” Jin kissed his cheek. “Tonight...” It traveled to his neck and collar. The tan one
jumped slightly. “Will you...” He went back up to tease the unique earring. “Let me be on
top?”

The burning beginning in his thighs made it hard to answer that. Jin had a way of making
him want it.

“Why?” Mugen kept his eyes closed as the tongue caressed his earlobe, breath teasing
even more.

“Does there have to be a reason?” The thin lips smirked as he cupped the hardening flesh.

“Shit.” Mugen gasped, face beginning to blush. “Fine, what the hell ever...just get it over
with.” He was panting now.
//Damn...just one kiss. Guess he’s back to normal then.//

No foreplay, no lengthy prep time. Within seconds Mugen was on his stomach as Jin
began slowly working himself in and out.

“Fuck...” Tan fingers gripped the futon as he clenched his eyes shut. Teeth barred in an
almost animalistic way. “Jin.”

The pale one had his eyes closed. Shino had arrived just in time again. Once again they
talked until late in the night...and once again he found himself wanting to be with her. As
he thrust he imagine her chalky flesh, spread pink for him. Sliding within her ...wet,
velvety. The woman’s small voice rising in level with each movement.

“Mmmh...” Jin gripped Mugen’s hips harder, pushing in deeper.

“Fuck, fuck!” Mugen yelped, deep crimson lighting his face. His only explanation for the
feeling, was his entire soul jumping up and down, as Jin hit his magic spot.
“Jin...t-this...it’s...” He drowned out into soft whimpers as the thrust took a more
measured pace.
//I love you so much you muthafucker...//
The tan body relaxed against the ronin, floating in the moment.
//You’re the only one I’ll ever be with...I love you.//

Mugen was so lost at the moment he couldn’t even hate on himself for thinking such
bullshit. It wasn’t bullshit, he meant it.

The ronin frowned as he couldn’t get the right angle, lifting Mugen’s hips to get him on all
fours.

He imagined the dark hair bouncing madly, her lips pressed in a soft oval shape. Her
panting his name, round firm breasts jumping in rhythm.
//Why can’t I have you?//
He moved faster.

“Jin...I...” Mugen clenched his teeth, as Jin was pushing him over all edges he had ever
seen.

//I will have you.//
The ronin hissed as his own end was rapidly approaching. Needing more and more, not
being able to get enough. He ground in deeper, biting his lip under the pressure.

“Jin...you’re...hurting-” Mugen furrowed his brows. The ronin’s passion was appealing,
but he was really starting to feel pain now.

//I will not stop until I have you...//
Jin was miles away, completely lost in the moment. His entire body shaking and sweaty as
he lost it, head falling back.

“S-stop...” Mugen was beginning to panic. Being like this was bringing up too many old
feelings, too fast. “Jin, stop.”

“Hhh...” A deep feral moan escaped the pale lips, as he continued his maddening pace.
“Yes...yes...” He continued to chant, being far past any sexual plane he’d felt before.

“Fucker stop it!” Mugen screamed as tears welled up into fighting eyes.
//No, why, what the fuck is this shit...?!//

Jin was unresponsive as he grabbed hard, shrieking loudly as he exploded into Mugen.

The Ryu-kyuian bit through his lip; blood beginning to flow in a steady, small stream. He
screamed, tears falling despite his efforts. Falling down to his stomach, covering his head
with his arms.

Hearing the pained response, Jin opened his eyes. Feeling near fainting from the
monstrous release and energy spent. His heart jumped for another reason, as he could
make out Mugen crying.

“No...” He pulled out, seeing blood follow. Coating him in an accusing shade of red.
“No...” His throat shut off and his eyes stung.

Images of the death of his master floating as well for a reason not known to him.
“M-mugen?”

The tan one did not reply, only kept his face and head covered as sobs shook him. He did
not want anyone seeing him like this. Not even himself really.

“M-mugen I’m...” Jin voice was shaking to the point of being inaudible.

“Get the fuck off of me!” The tan legs kicked wildly, rolling to his feet, scampering back
to the wall.

Jin stared in horror at the deeply upset gaze glaring at him. “I’m so sorry. I don’t know
what happened!” He panicked. “Mugen-”

“Fuck you bitch! No matter what the fuck I was, I stopped for your fucked up ass! Fuck!”
Mugen dropped to the ground, pulling his knees to his chest. “Damnit...j-just go away...”
He shook.
//I can’t deal with this shit...it was a long time ago! Why is this happening?!//
The Ryu-kyuian was near hyperventilation as memories of past traumas ravaged his spirit.

Silver tears fell from the ronin’s eyes.
//What have I done?//
Quickly he got up, slinging his clothes on as he exited. When he got outside; he doubled
over, vomiting on the street. The pale one fell to his knees.
//Mugen...I’m so sorry.//

Jin realized this was the worst thing he had ever done, to anyone. He couldn’t bare to stay,
yet had nowhere to run. Just about to give up and lay on the road, his mind came up with a
desperate answer.

“Fine then...” The ronin gathered himself, and began walking toward town.

- - - - -

//What’s with them, why are they fighting now?//
Fu pulled her robe shut. Screaming had woken her up, exiting her room only to find Jin
walking away. Far out of vocal range.

“What’s Mugen done this time?” The sleepy girl asked herself, as she approached their
room.

Raising her hand to lift the mat, she paused, listening carefully. She could barely make out
someone crying.
//That doesn’t make sense...//
The girl entered.

“...Mugen?”

Her eyes narrowed with concern at the nude tan form huddled in the corner. Immediately
she seen a large amount of blood on the ground, and on his legs.

“Mugen, what happened?!” She rushed to his side, despite his nudity.

“F-fu?” He looked up through red stained eyes. Reality began to return to him. “What the
hell do you w-want?” The Ryu-kyuian tried to appear nonchalant.

Fu didn’t miss the shaking to his voice though. “I heard screaming...what happened here
tonight?”

Everything in his body told him not to tell her. To tell the girl to ‘fuck off’ and leave him
alone. But all these old memories, and the idea of Jin snapping, was freaking him out.

“Nothing. Go to sleep.”

“Why are you crying? And...where did all this blood come from?!” Fu knew he was lying.
//He’s worse than Jin. Can’t they just say what they feel?!//

“Leave me alone, it’s none of your fucking-”

His angered response was cut short as Fu lifted her hand to brush some of his hair back,
maternally touching the wounded bottom lip. The tan form only flinched. Frozen staring at
her in a scared, confused way; breath in his chest.

“Calm down. You’re bleeding...”

Mugen swallowed, Fu’s hand was still ghosting over his face; slowly wiping the tears
from the coffee colored cheeks. He nodded, as she finally withdrew it.

“Please Mugen, tell me what happened. I have a right to know, you all affect me too.”

//There’s no way in hell I’m telling her...//
“...Something’s wrong with Jin.”

“I know that. How does that concern this?”
//What are you hiding? Not like I don’t have an idea...//

“He kinda lost it...” The tan one sighed, scratching his head. “Look, that’s all I’m sayin’.
You gonna let me get dressed or do you wanna see my balls?” He rose an eyebrow,
annoyed.

Fu blushed, quickly getting to her feet, turning her back to him.

//I guess she’s not leaving...//
He frowned as he tried to stand up. Just moving his legs caused a sharp, nasty pain to
revolve in his core.

“Shit...” The Ryu-kyuian gasped, falling back to his earlier position with a yelp.

“Mugen!” Fu turned, looking a little dramatic. “Damnit, what’s wrong? Did Jin hurt
you...you know...” Her face hinted red again, but she was determined to clear this up.

For a second he panicked. “Fine, yeah, big fucking deal huh? Go ahead and laugh you
little bitch!” Mugen growled, sitting in a way that didn’t reveal as much.

Fu calmly walked to his clothing, walking back over to kneel beside him. “It is a big deal,
and I’m not laughing Mugen.” Her tone and face was solemn, as she handed him his
clothes.

He stared at her much in the same way as earlier.
//Why the hell does she care?//
Not saying anything he shimmied into the fabric, with only a few whimpers of pain.

“I’m sorry...I feel so helpless about all this.” Fu began.

“Save it, I know all that. I actually don’t give a damn what he does...not like it’s never
happened before. Not with him...and don’t give me all that ‘sorry’ bullshit. It’s life,
sometimes it sucks.”

Fu nodded, but felt a deep sadness for the island native.
//Life does suck sometimes...//
“Do you know where Jin went?”

He shook his head. “...Can’t say I care right now...”

This hurt Fu worse than seeing Mugen shaking. “You have every right to be upset, just
keep in mind Jin is very upset right now too.”

“Can you get the hell outta my face?” She was really starting to piss him off now.
//I have to torture myself to help him, but I have to understand he’s allowed to rape me?!//

She made a mean face, sticking her tongue out. “I’m just trying to help, you don’t have to
be such a jerk.”

“I didn’t ask for any damn help, so get the fuck out!”

“Fine!” Fu stood angrily. “You be that way, you two are both crazy...I don’t know why I
bother putting up with you!”

“Yeah, say that next time your ass gets kidnapped!” Mugen shouted as she left the room.

As soon as she left, he let go of a deep breath. The pain beginning to be an overall body
ache by now.
//Nosy little...//
He didn’t have the energy to continue. The lanky form lay on his side, on the floor where
he sat. There was too much to deal with right now, all he wanted to do was sleep and get
rid of this nagging to find the ronin.

- - - - -

//This is it...//
Jin stood on the ledge of the bridge, dark dancing water below.
//You have killed your Master, you were defiled, and now you have raped your love...You
have no reason to exist anymore...//
The pale one wobbled a little trying to gain balance, holding his arms straight out. Wind
whipping his hair around and against his face.
//Forgive me for not saying goodbye...//
He stared down carefully. Having many second thoughts, but no other choice as he could
see.

“Wait!” A voice called out through the rainy night.

Jin startled, turning his head to the source of the sound.

“Please don’t do it! Whatever is wrong, it can be fixed...get down from there right now!”

He froze seeing Shino. The dark haired woman stood behind him on the bridge, clutching
her umbrella for dear life.

“Shino?”

“Yes...Please Jin, it’s slippery, get down now.” She held her hand out to him.

“No.” He turned back to face the water. “I can’t. This is something I must do...you could
never understand.”
//You have even defiled her, using her image as a means of sexual gratification.//

“Make me understand then. This is never the answer!”

“Please, go home. You’ll become ill if you stay out here too long.” The ronin closed his
eyes, taking a deep breath. “Never lose your laughter, Miss Shino. Goodbye.”

He kept his eyes closed as he stepped off the bridge, dropping instantly.

“Jin!” Shino ran to the bridge, grasping the wall and reaching out; only to grab air. “Jin!!”

- - - - -

END CHAPTER TWO