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читать дальшеChapter 3: Lying For You
Horohoro sat in his biology class, staring blankly into space. There was nothing written on his paper but that was far from his concern. Only one thing concerned him and it got worse the more time passed. He furrowed his brows just at the thought of it being real and not a nightmare.
It was first proven to him that it was real when he woke up alone in the morning. When all of Ren's belongings were gone with him. For the first time, Horohoro felt that the small apartment room was big and empty. Like him. And all day he was alone. But being alone wasn't the only thing that hurt the Ainu. It was also the way Ren acted.
Horohoro looked for Ren which he still loved. He spotted him a few times, even called out his name. And he knew that each time Ren heard him because the Chinese would pause and turn his head. Their eyes would even meet and Horohoro knew he was noticed. And yet Ren would go on by in a faster pace like he's in a hurry all of a sudden and Horohoro wasn't there. The fact was obvious; he was being avoided.
What made it even more confusing was whenever he saw Ren, there would be Hao right next to him. They were rather close, and Hao would act and look sadistic. It wouldn't be much of a surprise for a couple, but this was Ren. Wether they be in a relationship or not, he's not like that. And he only knew Ren to hate Hao. But the Chinese did nothing like he's allowing or accepting it. In a way, the bluenette couldn't understand. But then again, he did because Ren did say they're together now. But that's just what he couldn't believe.
Now that Horohoro thought about it, Hao has quite a reputation. Though the brunette also went to college, that meant nothing to him. No one really knew why he enrolled, but Horohoro began to think his only soul reason was Ren. During the day, Hao would be in school with a complete I-don't-care attitude. Some days he didn't even come. But it was known well enough to many other students that he's far more dangerous than he seems. He's frequently spotted with his group of friends known as Spirit of Fire (SOF) and it's obvious that he's the leader. In general, his life in the shadows is mostly a mysetry, but obvious enough to know you don't want to get into it. He'd do whatever he wants to get what he wants. Some say he's capable of murder and getting away with it. Horohoro's thoughts stopped when the bell rang. He quickly gathered his things and headed for Ren's last class.
Ren calmly walked out of his class with a sigh. It took so much of his energy to bear with Hao. it's bad enough that he needs to avoid and ignore Horohoro. At the thought of the Ainu he heaved another sigh. It can't be helped. He mentally told himself and clentched his hands into fists. He had to keep him out of trouble as much as he can until he somehow found a way to solve this. The Chinese suddenly got pulled by strong arms through a door to an empty stairway. He shook out of the grasp and pinned the person to the wall. He raised a fist but then froze.
"Horohoro...what're you..."
"Ren, we have to talk!" Ren swallowed the lump in his throat and let go of Horohoro. He turned and walked towards the door, but the bluenette took his hand again.
"He threatened you, didn't he? What'd he say he'll do?" "He..." Ren began but stopped. Let's keep this between the two of us. He remembered Hao say to not let anyone know anything. He looked at Hao with the coldest glare he could make. Horohoro looked apalled, but held on to his hand.
"He didn't do anything. You said it yourself that you're unsure of our relationship. What're you crying about?"
"I didn't mean it, I was too upset. And I don't want to lose you."
"Well here's news for you: you DID!"
"But to him? To Hao! Ren, all this time you hated his guts. You said you don't even welcome any of his flirts that day he kissed you. Then that night you get drunk, he fucks you, and now all of a sudden we're over and you go to him! I thought our love was stronger than that! It doesn't make sense!" Ren stood holding his cold stare as he surpressed the truth. The urge to tell weighed down on him, he felt like he could be crushed. He wanted to tell him he still loved him. He wanted to say their love is strong. He wanted to tell him about Hao's threat...but he has to protect him.
"I'll say it simple and slow enough to get through that head of yours. The. Love. Is. Gone." Ren said and felt his heart tear into pieces at each false word. Horohoro's eyes welled with tears as he stood stunned. Silence fell between them and Ren looked away from Horohoro, unable to bear it. He wished he wasn't so good at lying. He wished he wasn't so good at hiding himself so well. He wished he wasn't so convincing. He wished... for too much?
"Well well, I'm glad you made it clear to him, Ren." The two turned and saw Hao walking up the stairs toward them. Horohoro made a hard glare but it wasn't threatening with the tears in his eyes. The brunette went passed him and put an arm around Ren's shoulders. Ren, though he wanted to, didn't resist. Hao made a cocky smirk at Horohoro and brought Ren close. The site made more tears well in Horohoro's eyes and overflow. The falling crystal liquid shot a bullet through Ren.
"I'm sorry, we'll leave you alone now." Hao said with taunt in his tone and went down the stairs with Ren. The Chinese felt dark eyes on his back but he willed himself not to turn. The two went outside, leaving Horohoro alone in the empty stairway.
No, don't go...Don't leave me,Ren! No... Horohoro clentched his teeth as his eyes stung from hot tears.
HAO'S APARTMENT
Hao walked in and Ren followed behind him. He turned and cupped Ren's chin, tilting his head so their eyes will meet. His lips curved to a sly smile, but Ren returned it with his frown.
"I'm glad you're getting him out of our way."
"Shut up." Ren hissed and narrowed his eyes. Hao's smile didn't fade but his exprеssion got more serious. Not angry, but hard enough to give a message. However, Ren didn't care right now. He said words untrue and said too many lies to even care what happens to him.
"I don't want anyone in our way. You don't understand now, but later you will. You will love me." Hao pushed Ren to the wall and lightly kissed his neck. And before Ren could do anything, he grabbed his wrists and caressed his lips on the Chinese's neck. He pulled him down to sit on the floor and pinned his legs down with his own. Ren struggled but came to avail of escape. He made a low and threatening growl but it was muffled by Hao's lips. Horohoro... He thought desperately and pulled his face away. Hao parted and locked their eyes.
"I want him out of our way. Out of your mind, your heart." Hao held Ren's eyes and Ren didn't know why he couldn't look away. It's like he's pinned by the brunette's eyes and searched through his piercing stare. And the few seconds felt prolonged, as Hao looked like he was not only staring through a glass, but looking into it. But he let go of him and got to his feet.
"I'll order us some pizza." He said and grabbed the phone. Ren couldn't believe it. In an instant those eyes changed back to the laid back ones he always knew. As if nothing happened. As if what he just felt was a lie. But his heart was still jumping and he realized he was holding his breath. He's never been so intimidated by someone like this before. Was it possible that he was being read like an open book? He shuddered at the thought. That just makes it harder to go against Hao and harder to find a way out of this...He's never wanted Horohoro more than he does now.
Chapter 4: What They're Up Against
Ren heaved a long sigh and leaned back on the wall. It's been three days since he's been with Hao and already felt stressed from his smothering affection. And now he's about to be taken out for the night.
"Let's go then." Hao said and Ren didn't answer. They walked along side each other on the dark streets for some time until Hao went into an alley. They went deeper down where the street lights' shine barely reached and they were far from people. Ren looked at Hao skeptically.
"Exactly where are you taking me?"
"Don't worry, we're almost there." Hao chuckled which irritated Ren even more. Be opened his mouth to say something else but Hao stopped abruptly.
"We're here." He said and smiled. They stood in front of a door and above it was a black sign that read Club Patch in white letters. There didn't seem to be anything special about it. And the choice of location didn't seem wise as it's hard to find and unnonicable. Ren doubted it would last long.
"Don't be decieved by looks, Ren. This place is great." With that, Hao opened the door and went in. They went down a flight of stairs until they reached another door. Music could be faintly heard and the ground lightly shook below their feet. Ren's expectations went a little higher and Hao knocked on the door. In a few seconds, a slot was revealed and a two eyes appeared.
"Ah, Hao-sama. Just a moment." There was a click and right when the door opened, the blaring music made Ren lean back. Despite the music he followed Hao inside. And he was right about decieving looks. The place was larger, louder, and somewhat better than even Panick. Nevertheless, it wasn't a place for him
"Good evening, Hao-sama." A man only a bit shorter than Ren with black hair and green eyes walked up to the two.
"Hey Nichrome. This is Ren, you've heard of him."
"Pleased to meet you." Nichrome said pleasantly and brought out a hand. Ren shook it and Hao spoke again.
"Ren, this is Nichrome. Friend of mine and a member of SOF. And he manages Patch for me."
"For you?"
"Indeed, Club Patch is Hao-sama's. It's just under my name." NIchrome answered Ren who looked around. He didn't even want to know how he got it. Hao took his hand and led him to the other side of the room with Nichrome following. He surfed through the dancing crowd with ease and it was better that he held Ren's hand or he'd get lost. When they stopped, they were behind the bar counter in front of a blank wall. Nichrome brought out what seemed like a remote and pressed a button. The wall slid open, revealing a flight of decending stairs. Ren blinked a few times and Hao made a light laugh at his reaction. He nodded at Nichrome who made a respectful bow.
"It's even better down here." Ren hesitated but reluctantly followed Hao down the stairs. When they reached the bottom, a large man blocked a door with his arms crossed. His head touched the ceiling and his body was like a mass of boulder-like muscles. A hit in the jaw would probably give worse than amnesia. But with his laid back exprеssion Hao came in front of him and the bull dog face instantly softened.
"Good evening, Hao-sama!" The man rushed to the side and opened the door. Ren followed Hao inside and his gold orbs went wide. He didn't know what to call the place. The size was probably three or four school gyms worth. It was dark with dim lighting from the high ceiling, and from that ceiling hung glass boxes and cages with erotic dancers. They moved with the music played by the band performing on stage. Plus there were more dancers on poles which were in a few places. The room is packed with people dancing away, most of them looking drunk or high. Couches and tables could be spotted here and there, seated by men flocked by women, women flocked by men, or just a drunk riot. The whole place blared with music but also buzzed with hundreds, maybe even thousands of voices.
"Listen up! Hao-sama has entered the room!" Ren didn't think it was possible, but the guard from outside was heard above all the music and voices. There was a pause and all heads turned to them. Hao showed himself and a roar of cheers filled the incredible room. Ren was more than awed by the reaction and almost forgot to follow Hao through the crowd. Three times he almost lost sight of him as he tried to keep up but avoided contact with anyone at the same time. They finally stopped at an empty couch and table. Hao sat down and Ren came next to him, but kept a distance.
"Hao-sama!"
"We missed you!"
"Where've you been?" Three women called out and flocked around Hao. Hao greeted them with a smile as they leaned on him and made themselves comfortable. One of them noticed Ren.
"Hey, who's this? Doesn't come here often, does he?" Another also looked and grinned.
"I don't think so but he's got some nice eyes." The girls giggled as they leaned over to Ren as he leaned away. But Hao took his hand and pulled him over. He put an arm around his shoulders and held him close by his side.
"No girls, he's mine." He said and the girls groaned with disappointment. A tray of alchol was brought to them but Ren kept his hands away. And he tried to bear with the atmosphere around him while still being in Hao's arm. All he could do was think about Horohoro. Where he is, what he's doing, how he's doing. He even thought about sneaking out of the place but that was too risky. But alas, the Chinese couldn't take it. He freed himself from Hao's hold and got to his feet.
"Where're you going?"
"Somewhere for myself!" Ren yelled, not wanting to be around these creeps, and went through the crowd. Again he tried not to make any contact with anyone, though it was impossible with all the people. He ignored all flirts, glares, and calls he recieved until finally, he reached a less crowded area. Over here too had a bar but it was like the one upstairs was super-sized. Ren sat himself in an open seat and the bar tender poured him a glass. Ren didn't touch it.
"Don't think I've seen you before. What's your name?"
"None of your business." Ren spat but the tender only shrugged.
"I saw you come in with Hao-sama. You guys friends?"
"..."
"Well if you need anything, just let me know. The name's Zinc. Member of SOF so don't try anything."
"So all these guys aren't part of it?"
"No way! Most of these guys have loads of cash or work here. You must be pretty special if you're neither, not part of SOF, but still came with Hao-sama." Ren didn't answer him and just stayed silent. There was a crash and ear splitting screams. He turned and saw a mass of people concentrated on one spot and cheering on to something. In a few minutes, the crowd dicipitated and went back to their partying. Revealed was a bruised and bloody man on the floor, and a blue haired smoking girl. She looked down on the man in a superior-like way and spat her cigarette at him. Zinc sighed and shook his head, but wore a smile.
"That Kanna...Hey Macchi! Did she break anything?"
"Just a table!" A girl with red hair tied in two pig tails answered back cheerfully. Zinc slapped a hand on his forehead and shook his head again. Ren decided to find Hao and tell him that he's had enough. But after he got in the crowd for a few minutes, he found himself in a circle of drunken men. One of them spoke up as they closed in.
"Well aren't you a pretty little thing?" The men sneered as Ren growled and went into a position of defense. The men came at him and Ren used his martial art techniques to dodge and knock them out. Yet the Chinese was out numbered and was soon held captive. One of the larger men stepped up with a cocky grin.
"You're such a fiesty little pretty thing." Ren galred threateningly but the men laughed hysterically. The larger one brought out an enourmous hand and held Ren's cheek. Ren tried to jerk out but the hold was firm. Then, through all the noise and music, he could've sworn he heard a sudden sound. The man stopped short and fell to the floor. His back revealed a bullet hole and a red bloch began to spread on his shirt. Ren could feel the men holding him trembling. He looked up from the body to find who did the deed. It was easy since everyone backed away and made way for the shooter.
"Get your hands off of him." Hao hissed and pointed his gun at the other men who immediately let Ren free. For the first time, the Chinese was relieved to see him. But that relief disappeared when he looked at Hao again. He could feel the fierce aura coming from him like a wild fire. Just looking into his eyes can make even the most fearless beast's blood run cold. And those eyes moved to the men, making them look small and meek.
"H-Hao-sama...uh...um..." One man stuttered as Hao came closer. He brought Ren to his side and narrowed his eyes at him.
"None of you are to touch him."
"W-w-we're s-sorry, w-we d-d-didn't know..."
"Well now you do." Hao spat and looked around at the silent crowd, giving a message that it goes for the rest of them. While holding on to Ren, they went passed the men to the other side of the room. He motioned to Zinc who nodded and opened another secret door. This too lead to another flight of descending stairs.
"What if they tell the police?" Ren asked but Hao seemed fine.
"They can't afford to go to the police. None of these people can. Now let's just go to a quieter place." Hao was back to his light tone which really made Ren even more nervous. They reached a much smaller room, the size of an average bar. The lights had dim blue lights and soft music was played. Ren was grateful of the peacefulness.
"Good evening, Hao-sama. What can I get you and your friend?" A tall slender man from behind the counter asked. Hao sat down at the counter and Ren sat next to him.
"Vodka for me, Peyote. Tea for him since he doesn't drink." The orders were brought out and as if the incident was a lie, Hao was serene and drinking in silence. Ren began to wonder if he had multi personalities.
"Things got quiet up there all of a sudden. And I think I heard a gun shot. Something happened?"
"Some bastards were giving my Ren here a hard time and pissed me off."
"Did you kill anyone?" "I don't care."
"Ren was your name? My my, you're very special. It's not everyday that Hao-sama gets so upset. In fact, it's quite rare." A lump formed in Ren's throat and he swallowed it down with some tea. He wondered if he'd ever be able to go back to Horohoro. It's more than confirmed that the ainu would be in great danger if he does. Even if Hao doesn't do anything, he can hire any of these guys to do it for him. But he shudders at the thought of never going back. So what's to do? He thought and bit down on his lip.
"Ren? Ren, you ok?" Ren blinked and looked at Hao.
"Y-yeah, I'm fine." He answered and took another look at the place. It definetly wasn't as crowded. A few tables were sat by a group or a pair. But then he noticed what went on at the tables. One table had a pair dealing drugs. Another was a group of mafia having a meeting. Another looked like business men but they discussed black marketing. Though this place was calmer, it was corrupt in it's own way. He looked at Hao with a scowl.
"What kind of place are you running!"
"Ren, even the ones we call bad needs a place. Where they can belong. And that's just what I give them."
"I want to leave."
"Already?"
"Yes. Right. Now." Hao shrugged and got out of his seat. Ren followed him to a door which had stairs going up. They reached another door and were outside in an alley. But it was one that Ren recognized. It's the one near Club Panick. They walked through and were only a few yards from the streets. They could already see passer-by's. One of them seemed to have noticed them and stopped. Ren and Hao also stopped when they saw they met eyes with a blue haired ainu.
Horohoro sat in his biology class, staring blankly into space. There was nothing written on his paper but that was far from his concern. Only one thing concerned him and it got worse the more time passed. He furrowed his brows just at the thought of it being real and not a nightmare.
It was first proven to him that it was real when he woke up alone in the morning. When all of Ren's belongings were gone with him. For the first time, Horohoro felt that the small apartment room was big and empty. Like him. And all day he was alone. But being alone wasn't the only thing that hurt the Ainu. It was also the way Ren acted.
Horohoro looked for Ren which he still loved. He spotted him a few times, even called out his name. And he knew that each time Ren heard him because the Chinese would pause and turn his head. Their eyes would even meet and Horohoro knew he was noticed. And yet Ren would go on by in a faster pace like he's in a hurry all of a sudden and Horohoro wasn't there. The fact was obvious; he was being avoided.
What made it even more confusing was whenever he saw Ren, there would be Hao right next to him. They were rather close, and Hao would act and look sadistic. It wouldn't be much of a surprise for a couple, but this was Ren. Wether they be in a relationship or not, he's not like that. And he only knew Ren to hate Hao. But the Chinese did nothing like he's allowing or accepting it. In a way, the bluenette couldn't understand. But then again, he did because Ren did say they're together now. But that's just what he couldn't believe.
Now that Horohoro thought about it, Hao has quite a reputation. Though the brunette also went to college, that meant nothing to him. No one really knew why he enrolled, but Horohoro began to think his only soul reason was Ren. During the day, Hao would be in school with a complete I-don't-care attitude. Some days he didn't even come. But it was known well enough to many other students that he's far more dangerous than he seems. He's frequently spotted with his group of friends known as Spirit of Fire (SOF) and it's obvious that he's the leader. In general, his life in the shadows is mostly a mysetry, but obvious enough to know you don't want to get into it. He'd do whatever he wants to get what he wants. Some say he's capable of murder and getting away with it. Horohoro's thoughts stopped when the bell rang. He quickly gathered his things and headed for Ren's last class.
Ren calmly walked out of his class with a sigh. It took so much of his energy to bear with Hao. it's bad enough that he needs to avoid and ignore Horohoro. At the thought of the Ainu he heaved another sigh. It can't be helped. He mentally told himself and clentched his hands into fists. He had to keep him out of trouble as much as he can until he somehow found a way to solve this. The Chinese suddenly got pulled by strong arms through a door to an empty stairway. He shook out of the grasp and pinned the person to the wall. He raised a fist but then froze.
"Horohoro...what're you..."
"Ren, we have to talk!" Ren swallowed the lump in his throat and let go of Horohoro. He turned and walked towards the door, but the bluenette took his hand again.
"He threatened you, didn't he? What'd he say he'll do?" "He..." Ren began but stopped. Let's keep this between the two of us. He remembered Hao say to not let anyone know anything. He looked at Hao with the coldest glare he could make. Horohoro looked apalled, but held on to his hand.
"He didn't do anything. You said it yourself that you're unsure of our relationship. What're you crying about?"
"I didn't mean it, I was too upset. And I don't want to lose you."
"Well here's news for you: you DID!"
"But to him? To Hao! Ren, all this time you hated his guts. You said you don't even welcome any of his flirts that day he kissed you. Then that night you get drunk, he fucks you, and now all of a sudden we're over and you go to him! I thought our love was stronger than that! It doesn't make sense!" Ren stood holding his cold stare as he surpressed the truth. The urge to tell weighed down on him, he felt like he could be crushed. He wanted to tell him he still loved him. He wanted to say their love is strong. He wanted to tell him about Hao's threat...but he has to protect him.
"I'll say it simple and slow enough to get through that head of yours. The. Love. Is. Gone." Ren said and felt his heart tear into pieces at each false word. Horohoro's eyes welled with tears as he stood stunned. Silence fell between them and Ren looked away from Horohoro, unable to bear it. He wished he wasn't so good at lying. He wished he wasn't so good at hiding himself so well. He wished he wasn't so convincing. He wished... for too much?
"Well well, I'm glad you made it clear to him, Ren." The two turned and saw Hao walking up the stairs toward them. Horohoro made a hard glare but it wasn't threatening with the tears in his eyes. The brunette went passed him and put an arm around Ren's shoulders. Ren, though he wanted to, didn't resist. Hao made a cocky smirk at Horohoro and brought Ren close. The site made more tears well in Horohoro's eyes and overflow. The falling crystal liquid shot a bullet through Ren.
"I'm sorry, we'll leave you alone now." Hao said with taunt in his tone and went down the stairs with Ren. The Chinese felt dark eyes on his back but he willed himself not to turn. The two went outside, leaving Horohoro alone in the empty stairway.
No, don't go...Don't leave me,Ren! No... Horohoro clentched his teeth as his eyes stung from hot tears.
HAO'S APARTMENT
Hao walked in and Ren followed behind him. He turned and cupped Ren's chin, tilting his head so their eyes will meet. His lips curved to a sly smile, but Ren returned it with his frown.
"I'm glad you're getting him out of our way."
"Shut up." Ren hissed and narrowed his eyes. Hao's smile didn't fade but his exprеssion got more serious. Not angry, but hard enough to give a message. However, Ren didn't care right now. He said words untrue and said too many lies to even care what happens to him.
"I don't want anyone in our way. You don't understand now, but later you will. You will love me." Hao pushed Ren to the wall and lightly kissed his neck. And before Ren could do anything, he grabbed his wrists and caressed his lips on the Chinese's neck. He pulled him down to sit on the floor and pinned his legs down with his own. Ren struggled but came to avail of escape. He made a low and threatening growl but it was muffled by Hao's lips. Horohoro... He thought desperately and pulled his face away. Hao parted and locked their eyes.
"I want him out of our way. Out of your mind, your heart." Hao held Ren's eyes and Ren didn't know why he couldn't look away. It's like he's pinned by the brunette's eyes and searched through his piercing stare. And the few seconds felt prolonged, as Hao looked like he was not only staring through a glass, but looking into it. But he let go of him and got to his feet.
"I'll order us some pizza." He said and grabbed the phone. Ren couldn't believe it. In an instant those eyes changed back to the laid back ones he always knew. As if nothing happened. As if what he just felt was a lie. But his heart was still jumping and he realized he was holding his breath. He's never been so intimidated by someone like this before. Was it possible that he was being read like an open book? He shuddered at the thought. That just makes it harder to go against Hao and harder to find a way out of this...He's never wanted Horohoro more than he does now.
Chapter 4: What They're Up Against
Ren heaved a long sigh and leaned back on the wall. It's been three days since he's been with Hao and already felt stressed from his smothering affection. And now he's about to be taken out for the night.
"Let's go then." Hao said and Ren didn't answer. They walked along side each other on the dark streets for some time until Hao went into an alley. They went deeper down where the street lights' shine barely reached and they were far from people. Ren looked at Hao skeptically.
"Exactly where are you taking me?"
"Don't worry, we're almost there." Hao chuckled which irritated Ren even more. Be opened his mouth to say something else but Hao stopped abruptly.
"We're here." He said and smiled. They stood in front of a door and above it was a black sign that read Club Patch in white letters. There didn't seem to be anything special about it. And the choice of location didn't seem wise as it's hard to find and unnonicable. Ren doubted it would last long.
"Don't be decieved by looks, Ren. This place is great." With that, Hao opened the door and went in. They went down a flight of stairs until they reached another door. Music could be faintly heard and the ground lightly shook below their feet. Ren's expectations went a little higher and Hao knocked on the door. In a few seconds, a slot was revealed and a two eyes appeared.
"Ah, Hao-sama. Just a moment." There was a click and right when the door opened, the blaring music made Ren lean back. Despite the music he followed Hao inside. And he was right about decieving looks. The place was larger, louder, and somewhat better than even Panick. Nevertheless, it wasn't a place for him
"Good evening, Hao-sama." A man only a bit shorter than Ren with black hair and green eyes walked up to the two.
"Hey Nichrome. This is Ren, you've heard of him."
"Pleased to meet you." Nichrome said pleasantly and brought out a hand. Ren shook it and Hao spoke again.
"Ren, this is Nichrome. Friend of mine and a member of SOF. And he manages Patch for me."
"For you?"
"Indeed, Club Patch is Hao-sama's. It's just under my name." NIchrome answered Ren who looked around. He didn't even want to know how he got it. Hao took his hand and led him to the other side of the room with Nichrome following. He surfed through the dancing crowd with ease and it was better that he held Ren's hand or he'd get lost. When they stopped, they were behind the bar counter in front of a blank wall. Nichrome brought out what seemed like a remote and pressed a button. The wall slid open, revealing a flight of decending stairs. Ren blinked a few times and Hao made a light laugh at his reaction. He nodded at Nichrome who made a respectful bow.
"It's even better down here." Ren hesitated but reluctantly followed Hao down the stairs. When they reached the bottom, a large man blocked a door with his arms crossed. His head touched the ceiling and his body was like a mass of boulder-like muscles. A hit in the jaw would probably give worse than amnesia. But with his laid back exprеssion Hao came in front of him and the bull dog face instantly softened.
"Good evening, Hao-sama!" The man rushed to the side and opened the door. Ren followed Hao inside and his gold orbs went wide. He didn't know what to call the place. The size was probably three or four school gyms worth. It was dark with dim lighting from the high ceiling, and from that ceiling hung glass boxes and cages with erotic dancers. They moved with the music played by the band performing on stage. Plus there were more dancers on poles which were in a few places. The room is packed with people dancing away, most of them looking drunk or high. Couches and tables could be spotted here and there, seated by men flocked by women, women flocked by men, or just a drunk riot. The whole place blared with music but also buzzed with hundreds, maybe even thousands of voices.
"Listen up! Hao-sama has entered the room!" Ren didn't think it was possible, but the guard from outside was heard above all the music and voices. There was a pause and all heads turned to them. Hao showed himself and a roar of cheers filled the incredible room. Ren was more than awed by the reaction and almost forgot to follow Hao through the crowd. Three times he almost lost sight of him as he tried to keep up but avoided contact with anyone at the same time. They finally stopped at an empty couch and table. Hao sat down and Ren came next to him, but kept a distance.
"Hao-sama!"
"We missed you!"
"Where've you been?" Three women called out and flocked around Hao. Hao greeted them with a smile as they leaned on him and made themselves comfortable. One of them noticed Ren.
"Hey, who's this? Doesn't come here often, does he?" Another also looked and grinned.
"I don't think so but he's got some nice eyes." The girls giggled as they leaned over to Ren as he leaned away. But Hao took his hand and pulled him over. He put an arm around his shoulders and held him close by his side.
"No girls, he's mine." He said and the girls groaned with disappointment. A tray of alchol was brought to them but Ren kept his hands away. And he tried to bear with the atmosphere around him while still being in Hao's arm. All he could do was think about Horohoro. Where he is, what he's doing, how he's doing. He even thought about sneaking out of the place but that was too risky. But alas, the Chinese couldn't take it. He freed himself from Hao's hold and got to his feet.
"Where're you going?"
"Somewhere for myself!" Ren yelled, not wanting to be around these creeps, and went through the crowd. Again he tried not to make any contact with anyone, though it was impossible with all the people. He ignored all flirts, glares, and calls he recieved until finally, he reached a less crowded area. Over here too had a bar but it was like the one upstairs was super-sized. Ren sat himself in an open seat and the bar tender poured him a glass. Ren didn't touch it.
"Don't think I've seen you before. What's your name?"
"None of your business." Ren spat but the tender only shrugged.
"I saw you come in with Hao-sama. You guys friends?"
"..."
"Well if you need anything, just let me know. The name's Zinc. Member of SOF so don't try anything."
"So all these guys aren't part of it?"
"No way! Most of these guys have loads of cash or work here. You must be pretty special if you're neither, not part of SOF, but still came with Hao-sama." Ren didn't answer him and just stayed silent. There was a crash and ear splitting screams. He turned and saw a mass of people concentrated on one spot and cheering on to something. In a few minutes, the crowd dicipitated and went back to their partying. Revealed was a bruised and bloody man on the floor, and a blue haired smoking girl. She looked down on the man in a superior-like way and spat her cigarette at him. Zinc sighed and shook his head, but wore a smile.
"That Kanna...Hey Macchi! Did she break anything?"
"Just a table!" A girl with red hair tied in two pig tails answered back cheerfully. Zinc slapped a hand on his forehead and shook his head again. Ren decided to find Hao and tell him that he's had enough. But after he got in the crowd for a few minutes, he found himself in a circle of drunken men. One of them spoke up as they closed in.
"Well aren't you a pretty little thing?" The men sneered as Ren growled and went into a position of defense. The men came at him and Ren used his martial art techniques to dodge and knock them out. Yet the Chinese was out numbered and was soon held captive. One of the larger men stepped up with a cocky grin.
"You're such a fiesty little pretty thing." Ren galred threateningly but the men laughed hysterically. The larger one brought out an enourmous hand and held Ren's cheek. Ren tried to jerk out but the hold was firm. Then, through all the noise and music, he could've sworn he heard a sudden sound. The man stopped short and fell to the floor. His back revealed a bullet hole and a red bloch began to spread on his shirt. Ren could feel the men holding him trembling. He looked up from the body to find who did the deed. It was easy since everyone backed away and made way for the shooter.
"Get your hands off of him." Hao hissed and pointed his gun at the other men who immediately let Ren free. For the first time, the Chinese was relieved to see him. But that relief disappeared when he looked at Hao again. He could feel the fierce aura coming from him like a wild fire. Just looking into his eyes can make even the most fearless beast's blood run cold. And those eyes moved to the men, making them look small and meek.
"H-Hao-sama...uh...um..." One man stuttered as Hao came closer. He brought Ren to his side and narrowed his eyes at him.
"None of you are to touch him."
"W-w-we're s-sorry, w-we d-d-didn't know..."
"Well now you do." Hao spat and looked around at the silent crowd, giving a message that it goes for the rest of them. While holding on to Ren, they went passed the men to the other side of the room. He motioned to Zinc who nodded and opened another secret door. This too lead to another flight of descending stairs.
"What if they tell the police?" Ren asked but Hao seemed fine.
"They can't afford to go to the police. None of these people can. Now let's just go to a quieter place." Hao was back to his light tone which really made Ren even more nervous. They reached a much smaller room, the size of an average bar. The lights had dim blue lights and soft music was played. Ren was grateful of the peacefulness.
"Good evening, Hao-sama. What can I get you and your friend?" A tall slender man from behind the counter asked. Hao sat down at the counter and Ren sat next to him.
"Vodka for me, Peyote. Tea for him since he doesn't drink." The orders were brought out and as if the incident was a lie, Hao was serene and drinking in silence. Ren began to wonder if he had multi personalities.
"Things got quiet up there all of a sudden. And I think I heard a gun shot. Something happened?"
"Some bastards were giving my Ren here a hard time and pissed me off."
"Did you kill anyone?" "I don't care."
"Ren was your name? My my, you're very special. It's not everyday that Hao-sama gets so upset. In fact, it's quite rare." A lump formed in Ren's throat and he swallowed it down with some tea. He wondered if he'd ever be able to go back to Horohoro. It's more than confirmed that the ainu would be in great danger if he does. Even if Hao doesn't do anything, he can hire any of these guys to do it for him. But he shudders at the thought of never going back. So what's to do? He thought and bit down on his lip.
"Ren? Ren, you ok?" Ren blinked and looked at Hao.
"Y-yeah, I'm fine." He answered and took another look at the place. It definetly wasn't as crowded. A few tables were sat by a group or a pair. But then he noticed what went on at the tables. One table had a pair dealing drugs. Another was a group of mafia having a meeting. Another looked like business men but they discussed black marketing. Though this place was calmer, it was corrupt in it's own way. He looked at Hao with a scowl.
"What kind of place are you running!"
"Ren, even the ones we call bad needs a place. Where they can belong. And that's just what I give them."
"I want to leave."
"Already?"
"Yes. Right. Now." Hao shrugged and got out of his seat. Ren followed him to a door which had stairs going up. They reached another door and were outside in an alley. But it was one that Ren recognized. It's the one near Club Panick. They walked through and were only a few yards from the streets. They could already see passer-by's. One of them seemed to have noticed them and stopped. Ren and Hao also stopped when they saw they met eyes with a blue haired ainu.