by Lucky Charms

Disclaimers: See Part 1.

Feedback is always welcome: luckycharms@e-scribblers.com.

Copyright © 2004 by Lucky Charms. All Rights Reserved.

---

Chapter Four

Date: June 24, 3021
Time: 7:32pm
Location: Derryk’s mansion

The dinner goes off without a hitch. All the members of the elite squadron of the F.Y. Police give Joe Campbell, the new recruit, a warm welcome.

"This is wonderful food you got ‘ere Chief." Aaron mutters, his mouth full of food.

"Thank you Aaron." Derryk says, grinning. "So Joe, are you ready to start work tomorrow?" He asks the young man.

Joe smiles faintly. "I think I am."

"Nah, you’ll do fine Joe." Brian says. "We’re all a little nervous the first couple days. But don’t worry, I’m gonna show you the ropes."

Aeryk stops his fork before it reaches his mouth and looks at Derryk. "What do you mean?"

"Didn’t I tell you Aeryk?" Derryk says. "While you’re gone, I’m going to partner Joe with Brian."

Aeryk’s eyes widen. "Are you sure that’s wise?"

Brian scowls. "And what’s that supposed to mean?"

"Knowing how you are Brian, he might get killed on his first day." Aeryk shoots back.

"Are you jealous or something?" Brian asks rising from his chair.

Aeryk erupts to his feet, his icy blue eyes flashing with anger. "What in the hell do I have to be jealous of?"

Alasen, who’s sitting on Brian’s left, places a gentle hand on his arm. "Brian, settle down." She whispers.

"Aeryk, you too." Derryk says.

Aeryk turns on his heel and storms out of the room, closely followed by Jackie.

"Aeryk," Jackie says. "Wait up a second alright?"

Aeryk ignores her and storms up the stairs and finds himself in his old room, just how it was left years ago.

"What’s the matter?" Jackie asks, following Aeryk into the room and shutting the door.

"Brian," Aeryk roars. "Is what’s the matter!"

"Is this about Joe being partnered with him?" Jackie asks tenderly.

"To hell with that." Aeryk snaps as he turns away from Jackie.

"Then what is it?"

Aeryk walks over to the glass sliding door and tears open the curtain, revealing a full moon and a sky filled with stars.

"You see that?" Aeryk demands, not facing Jackie.

"See what?" Jackie whispers walking up to Aeryk, but remaining a few feet away from him.

"And entire world out there, full of people with friends and families." He chokes on the last word. "A world where people are free to love whom they wish."

What are you getting at here Aeryk? Jackie asks silently. "Okay." Was all she dares to say at the moment.

"Where are my friends and my family, Jackie?" Aeryk snaps. "Where is the love I’m supposed to have, huh?" He turns on her, tears glistening in his blue eyes.

"Aeryk," Jackie says softly. "You have your friends right here, we are your family, and we all love you." She places a tentative hand on his shoulder. "Can you tell me what’s really bothering you?" It’s Brian, isn’t it?

"I don’t know." Aeryk mutters as his shoulders slump. "I just don’t know anymore."

"Come on, sit down." She guides him over to his old bed and sits next to him. "What don’t you know?"

"It’s Brian." Aeryk says. "Something happened between us and," He pauses. "And I’m afraid of what’ll happen between us because of it."

Jackie places her hands over Aeryk’s and squeezes them tenderly. "What happened?"

Aeryk looks up at Jackie with fear filled eyes, he then turns away and gazes out into the moonlit night. Can I trust her? He asks himself. You’re talking about telling her a life-changing event in your life. Can you tell her about how much you love Brian, still, and how utterly jealous you are of that, He grimaces. Alasen.

But lets face it Aeryk. Brian doesn’t love you that way. He’s bound to find someone else that’ll make him happy. He bows his head down and sighs. He stares at his hands as he continues to argue with himself.

Yeah, but Brian’s mine. I don’t want to give him up. Don’t you understand? He’s all I have! What will I do once he’s gone forever?

"Aeryk?" Jackie asks cautiously.

He looks up at Jackie and gives her a faint smile. "Sorry, I was just arguing with myself."

"You don’t have to say anything if you don’t want to."

"Nah, I guess I should at least let my friends know."

Jackie squeezes Aeryk’s hand again for reassurance. "You know, no matter what, we’ll still be there for you Aeryk."

Aeryk nods. "I know, thank you." He sighs slowly and turns to Jackie. "I’m gay, Jackie." He says suddenly.

Jackie lets out a startled gasp, unable to speak for a moment. "You sure?"

Aeryk nods. "Yeah, and like the dumb-ass I am, I’ve fallen in love with Brian."

Jackie’s eyes widen in sudden understanding. "So, you’re jealous over Alasen?" Aeryk nods. "Does he know this?"

"He knows that I love him, yes, and he’s alright with me being gay." He looks down at his hands again. "But he doesn’t know how I feel about him and Alasen. He hasn’t told me himself how he feels about her, but I can see it. Only an idiot would miss the looks those two give each other."

Jackie slowly rises from the bed, in slight shock over the matter. "Aeryk, I have no idea what to say."

"I’ll understand if you don’t want to hang out with me anymore." Aeryk mutters, fearful.

"No, no!" Jackie exclaims. "It’s nothing like that. It’s just," She fumbles for the right words. "I just didn’t see it coming."

Aeryk smiles slightly. "Neither did I."

Jackie, seeing Aeryk’s smile, smirks. "And to think, all this time I wanted to be your maid of honor at your wedding." She jokes.

Aeryk, elated by Jackie’s response, jumps to his feet and wraps his arms around her. "Thanks Jax, you’re the best."

"I know." She replies, smiling.

There’s a slight knock on the door and Aeryk and Jackie pull away. "Come in." Aeryk says.

Joe peers his head in and attempts to smile. "Uh, hi." He says.

"It’s okay Joe, come on in." Aeryk says warmly. "Sorry about earlier, I didn’t mean it."

"Don’t worry about it. I, uh, was told to tell you guys that they’re having drinks downstairs if you want to join them."

"Thanks Joe, we’ll be right down." Jackie says, and Joe disappears down the hall. "Sweet kid." She turns to Aeryk. "You know you scared the crap outta him earlier."

Aeryk chuckles. "Sorry."

"Don’t apologize to me!" Jackie says. "I thought it was damn funny."

Aeryk and Jackie laugh as they walk out of the room and down into the lounge, which was constructed to look like a very old 1920’s bar, very elegant.

Brian looks up from his conversation with Alasen, and his eyes darken with resentment.

Aeryk looks back at him and tries to smile, signaling that everything’s alright between them.

Brian sees the smile, nods, then turns back to Alasen.

"Just leave him alone for a bit Aeryk." Jackie advises.

"I know, but part of me wants to say something to him."

"Leave it be Aeryk." She reiterates. "Lets have a couple drinks to calm things down for a bit."

Aeryk agrees and walks behind the bar with Jackie to make himself his favorite drink, a rum and coke.

"Those are such wussy drinks Aeryk." Jackie scoffs.

"I hate the taste of alcohol, and you know it." Aeryk shoots back, his eyes changing into a light green.

"I think I should take you out some time and get you nice and drunk my boy." Jackie teases patting Aeryk on the back. "Only then will you realize the glory of the drink."

Aeryk arches a brow at he takes a small drink from his rum and coke.

A red light begins to flash in the corner of the room and Derryk and Aeryk look at each other.

"I’ll get the guns." Aeryk says as he rushes over to the corner under the light.

"What’s going on?" Jeff asks.

"Someone’s broken into the house." Derryk says.

Aeryk opens a hidden panel, pressing several numbers on the numeric pad, and the wall before him slides down, revealing a small compartment with seven R-419’s and headsets.

R-419’s are the latest in the "non bullet using" weaponry. They are light, easy to handle weapons that shoot out a thin ray of plasma energy designed to stun, but they do have the capability to kill. The headsets are basic two-way radio connection.

Aeryk, Brian, Jeff, Brent, Jackie, Aaron, and Derryk rush over the compartment and grab a gun and headset.

Sylvia rushes into the room. "They’re in the oratory." She says.

"Alright," Derryk begins. "Be careful everyone. We don’t know how many are in there and we don’t have our protection on us."

"What could they possibly want in the oratory?" Jackie asks.

"My father kept most of the expensive artifacts and paintings in there." Derryk says. "Most everything in there is one of a kind, or extremely rare."

Aeryk activates the gun, resulting in a slight high-pitched ring. "Do we have any idea how many are in there?" He asks Sylvia while placing on his headset.

"There are only three of them from what the scanner can tell." She replies. "But you can never be too sure."

Derryk nods as he and the rest of the group prepare themselves. "Alright," He turns to his team. "Brian and Aeryk, you come with me upstairs. Jeff and Brent, you head out the front in case they get past us. Aaron and Jackie, you take the back."

The seven of them nod in understanding and rush to take their posts.

"Why didn’t you go with them Joe?" Alasen asks.

"Not enough guns, I guess." He replies sullenly.

Sylvia smiles. "Don’t worry about it. You’ll get your chance soon enough. Don’t envy them too much, son." She looks back as Derryk, Brian, and Aeryk ascent the stairs. "Their life isn’t all guns and glory."

Aeryk and Brian take to either side of the large double doors to the oratory and look up to Derryk for instructions.

"They’ve more than likely entered from the roof." Derryk says lowly. "Jeff, Brent, how are you two doing?"

"Just fine, sir." Jeff responds. "Ready when you are."

"Aaron, Jackie?" Derryk asks.

"Just got ‘ere Chief." Aaron replies.

"Good. Now there’s a slight chance they came in from the roof, so keep an eye out alright." Derryk turns to Brian. "I’m gonna need you to handle the doors, since you’re the strongest. Aeryk and I will cover you."

Aeryk and Derryk then face the doors, guns poised and ready. Brian nods to Derryk and sends a harsh kick into the doors, forcing them open with a loud pang.

Aeryk and the others look into the brightly lit room and see three men, dressed entirely in a black suit and hood, poised over a pedestal holding an old looking book.

"F.Y. Police, don’t move!" Aeryk bellows.

"Put your hands in the air were we can see them, boys." Derryk orders.

The three men turn and face Brian and the others calmly.

"Well if it isn’t the famous F.Y. Police." The man with haunting blue eyes says cockily. He turns back toward the book.

"Don’t move!" Brian yells.

"And what will you do if we do?" The blue-eyed man says clutching the book close to his chest.

Derryk and the others remain silent, aiming their guns at the intruders.

The blue-eyed man snorts and turns to the man on his left. "Handle this for me please." He mutters.

The shorter man nods and pulls out a flute made of shimmering silver.

Brian takes a step forward. "I said no body move!"

Aeryk watches the man with the flute. "Put it down sir." He says calmly.

Aeryk is ignored and the man places the flute to his mouth and begins to play a strange, eerie melody.

"What the...?" Derryk says lowly.

Brian suddenly lets out a gasp of pain and he drops his gun and tears off his headset, to cover his ears.

Aeryk looks at his partner with concern. "Brian, you alright?" Suddenly Aeryk gets assaulted with an intense pain searing like fire through his brain. He cries out and drops to his knees.

Derryk, despite the pain consuming his body, manages a blind shot with his gun. The small blast of plasmic energy shoots from the gun and connects, painfully, with the flautist’s arm.

He grunts in pain, as does the third man. "Damn it." He mutters.

The third man quickly pulls out a golf ball sized orb and hurls it at the ground. In a flash of light and a loud bang, the room is instantly covered in a white smoke.

Though blinded by the smoke, Aeryk and the others hear three loud bangs.

Aeryk, defensively places his arms around his face, but suddenly realizes those shots weren’t guns. Catches the three shadows rising up from the floor on cables.

"Damn it." Aeryk curses. He fumbles around for his gun, finds it, and aims toward the open ceiling.

Unable to make a clear shot, Aeryk snarls in frustration. "Aaron, Jackie, Jeff, Brent," He begins. "They’re making their way onto the roof."

"Gotcha buddy." Jeff says. "What’s going on in there?"

"Never mind that," Aeryk snaps. "Just find them. We’ll try to meet you guys soon."

"Aeryk," Brian coughs. "The hell are they?"

"They made it out onto the roof." Aeryk responds. "Jeff and the others are on it."

"Fuck!" Brian curses.

"Settle down Brian." Derryk says. "Look, I see the door. Let’s get outta here."

The three of the stumble out of the room, coughing.

"Everybody got their guns?" Derryk asks. Aeryk and Brian show him their guns. "Alright, lets head out to Jeff and Brent." He orders and the three of them hustle out of the mansion and soon find their comrades.

"Any sign of them?" Aeryk asks.

"No." Brent says.

"How about you guys?" Aeryk asks into the headset.

"No sign of them, no wait, I see them!" Aaron calls and there’s the sound of gunfire in the distance. "Get down from there you bastards!"

"There," Jeff says pointing toward the roof. "That’s them."

"Is there anyway up there?" Brian asks.

"I know a way." Aeryk says. "C’mon." He motions for Brian to follow and the two tear off into the house.

"Aaron, Jackie do what you can to keep them on the roof. Brian and I are heading up there right now."

Joe and Alasen see Brian and Aeryk tear into the house. "Hey," Joe calls. "What’s going on?"

"Just stay there." Aeryk orders gruffly.

Aeryk and Brian reach the third level of the mansion and Aeryk enters a random room.

"So how are we gonna get onto the roof?" Brian asks.

"Climb." Aeryk replies simply walking over to the sliding door and onto the balcony. "How else?"

Aeryk looks up at the low hanging roof and frowns slightly. "Damn it, too short. How in the hell did I manage it when I was younger?"

Brian meets his partner on the balcony. "There’s no way you can reach that."

"I know, I just said that." Aeryk sighs.

"Hey, what’s your problem?" Brian inquires. "You’ve been an ass to me all night."

"Stop it you two," Jackie snaps. "You two can fight over whatever it is you’re fighting about later. We’ve got a job to do, remember."

Aeryk curses the fact that everybody can hear his conversations. "Can you lift me up there?" He asks Brian turning off his headset.

"Yeah, but what about me?" He replies, turning his own headset off.

"The ledge of the balcony is wide enough for you to stand on. You can jump and grab onto the roof."

"And what if I don’t make it?"

Aeryk smiles slightly. "Don’t worry, you will. Beside, I’ll catch you."

Brian snorts. "Alright, let’s get this over with." He kneels down and wraps his arms around Aeryk’s legs. "Ready?" As Aeryk nods he slowly lifts him toward the roof.

"Are you looking at my butt?" Aeryk teases.

Brian sighs. "Shut up Aeryk."

"I was only joking Brian, lighten up." He grabs for the roof and pulls himself up. He looks over to the far right and sees the three men standing at the edge, one of them holding something to his mouth.

"Alright partner," Aeryk says lowering to his knees and hanging his arms down. "Ready when you are."

"You sure about this?" Brian asks hesitantly.

"I’ve climbed this roof a million times, it’s safe."

Brian heaves out a nervous sigh and climbs up onto the ledge of the balcony. "You better catch me."

Aeryk grins. "Don’t worry Brian."

Brian leaps out from the balcony and grabs for Aeryk’s wrists. "See, wasn’t so bad." Aeryk says.

Brian smiles up at him. "Alright, pull me up."

"Geez, in a hurry are we?" Aeryk grunts as he slowly pulls up Brian onto the roof. "Damn you’re heavy."

"Thanks." Brian says helping Aeryk to his feet.

The two call out to the three men and order for them to put their hands in the air.

"No funny business this time." Brian snaps at the man holding the flute.

"Put your hands behind your head, turn around, and get on your knees." Aeryk orders.

"Persistent, aren’t you?" The man holding the book says. "I admire that, as annoying as it is."

"Stop talking and do what you’re told." Brian snaps. "You are being charged with robbery. You have the right to remain silent..."

Aeryk allows Brian to continue with the Miranda as he switches on his headset. "Hey guys, we got things taken care of up here."

"Aeryk!" Jackie roars. "What were you thinking turning off your headset?"

"Okay, sorry." Aeryk rolls his eyes. "How about we get the police out here to pick up our friends."

"I’ll handle it." Brent says. "I’m out."

"Me too." Jeff says.

"Catch yah down stairs Aeryk." Aaron says.

Aeryk waits a moment until he speaks further with Jackie. "So what’s up?"

"Nothing. What’s up with you?"

Aeryk sighs. "Not a damn thing." He turns to Brian and sees that he has managed to handle the three robbers.

"I thought you were gonna try and cut the attitude with Brian, Aeryk." Jackie groans.

"I know." He sighs. "It sucks, because I know I don’t have any reason to be pissed at him."

"You’re just trying to adjust to the fact that he- holy shit!"

Aeryk looks up into the night sky as a helicopter appears. "Crap." Aeryk bolts over to Brian.

"The hell is going on?" Brian demands backing up slightly.

The helicopter lowers to just a few feet above the roof and several more armed men drop out, aiming their guns at Brian and Aeryk.

"Looks like they’ve got friends." Aeryk growls raising his hands in the air.

"Damn it all to hell." Brian snaps raising his hands as well.

The man holding the book turns to Brian and Aeryk. "It’s been a joy meeting with you tonight boys. But I’m afraid I have business elsewhere to attend to, ciao!" He laughs cockily as he enters the helicopter and fly off into freedom.

"Well, we almost had them." Aeryk says pulling off his headset.

"Pisses me off." Brian grumbles. "Lets head back in."

"Hey Brian," Aeryk begins lowly as he helps Brian down onto the balcony. "I’m sorry about being an ass to you earlier."

Brian shrugs and looks up at his friend. "Don’t worry about it."

Aeryk shakes his head and kicks his legs over and jumps down beside Brian. "It’s not just that Brian." The two walk into the room and Aeryk grabs Brian’s arm. "It’s something else."

"What is it, bud?"

Aeryk’s heart clenches slightly at the fondness is Brian’s voice. "It’s about Alasen."

Brian’s eyes widen. "What do you mean?"

"I know what’s going on between you two."

Brian turns his head away and runs his hand through his hair. "Yeah, about that," He begins. "Sorry. I didn’t know how to handle it. I was going to tell you eventually, but seeing as how things are with us now, it didn’t seem like the right time to say anything."

Aeryk smiles slightly. "Thank you for that, but as hard as it is going to be for me to say this, I don’t want to burden your life at all. I appreciate you thinking about me Bri, but I’ll deal with it."

Brian smiles down at his friend, and his eyes glow with gratitude. "I really am sorry Aeryk. I still want us to be buds and do all that manly stuff, if you can handle it." He winks.

Aeryk puffs up in outrage. "Hey! I can handle anything you throw at me boy. You’re only lucky I haven’t tossed your scrubby ass onto the curb." He grins mischievously.

Brian laughs as the two continue down toward the foyer and their awaiting friends.

Jackie arches an elegant brow and gazes at Brian and Aeryk with unbelieving blue eyes. "Have we worked out our differences ladies?"

Brian snorts. "Go find something to drink Jackie."

Alasen rushes up to Brian, but suddenly stops when she notices Aeryk. She looks up at Brian hesitantly.

Brian smiles at the petite blonde and wraps his arms around her slim shoulders. "Aeryk, you remember Alasen right?"

Aeryk smiles warmly, if not with some difficulty, at Alasen. "Yeah, nice to see you again. Be careful with this one, he’s a bit of a slob."

Alasen chuckles and rests her head on Brian’s shoulder. "I’ve had a feeling he was."

Aeryk turns away and looks at Jackie with a solemn grin. "How about a drink, eh?"

Jackie and Aeryk walk back into the lounge and Aeryk has Jackie pour him a Bombay Sapphire Blue Gimlet-Up.

"Whoa!" Jackie gawks. "You think you can handle that?"

"Shut up and give it to me." He smirks.

Jackie passes him the martini and watches him as he takes a reluctant drink.

Aeryk’s eyes instantly water as the ninety-eight percent proof alcohol onslaughts his body. He lets out a mighty whoop and wipes the tears away. "Damn!"

"Welcome to the world of the drink my boy." Jackie raises her glass to toast Aeryk. "So how are you doing?"

Aeryk shrugs. "I’m fine. It’s not as hard as I thought it would be. But it’s still hard."

Alasen, pads up to the corner just out of the lounge and listens to Aeryk and Jackie speak.

"To think, all the years I’ve known Brian, I’ve never even thought about loving him." He shrugs and takes another drink. "But now I do."

"That’s not so strange as you might think it is Aeryk." Jackie replies. "It happens with friends all the time. Sometimes they work out, sometimes they don’t."

Aeryk nods and stares into the solid blue drink for a moment before saying, "Yeah, and I kinda wanted for this one to work out too." He sighs. "But I guess things don’t always work out the way you want them too."

A small tear of despair gathers in Aeryk’s eye and Jackie walks over to him and puts her arms around him. "You’ll be fine Aeryk." She says warmly. "Just give it some time."

Alasen turns and walks the other direction. She finds Brian talking to Derryk and the others about the passing event and clears her throat.

"Uh, can I steal him for a moment?" She motions to Brian.

Brian and Alasen walk down the hall for a short while until Alasen stops. "Brian, can I ask you something?"

Brian smiles. "Sure, what’s up?"

Alasen remembers Aeryk’s words. "It’s about Aeryk."

Brian’s eyes darken. "Did he say something to you?"

"No, no!" She adds hastily. "It’s also about you." Alasen pauses a moment. "I’ve seen how you two interact with each other and how you were at the hospital."

Brian arches a brow. "What do you mean? I was just looking out for a friend."

"I know." She continues. "I just want to know how you really feel about him before this goes to far between us."

Anger suddenly wells up in Brian. "Alasen, what are you getting at?"

She takes a small step back. "Nothing Brian, I was just saying..."

"Saying what? That I’m gay?" He snaps.

"No! Nothing like that!"

"Then what, Alasen, what are you saying?"

Alasen looks up at the angry Brian in disbelief. Can anyone be so scared about this? Am I doing the right thing for us? "Maybe I’m over reacting." She says. "I’m sorry."

Brian’s eyes soften. "It’s alright." He puts his arms around Alasen’s small body and holds her close to him.

Alasen lays her head on Brian’s chest and lets out a slight sigh. This doesn’t seem right, somehow. But what am I saying? Brian’s very attractive and sweet. It’s probably just me over analyzing things, again. I should stop doing that. I can’t help it if Brian’s attracted to me, and not Aeryk. So why should I feel bad?

Date: June 29, 3021
Time: 1:43 pm
Location: F.Y. Police Headquarters

Aeryk exits the elevator and heads down toward his office. It’s been almost a week since Aeryk has been back to work, and he’s very thankful for it. Sitting around the house all day doing absolutely nothing and having to deal with Brian and Alasen acting all childish and mushy with each other made Aeryk sick to his stomach.

Much to Aeryk’s astonishment, Brian actually cleaned up his room. He does, however, have deep suspicions that Alasen was behind the miracle.

"Hey Aeryk!" Joe calls from down the hall. "Welcome back."

Aeryk smiles and meets up with Joe. "Thanks. So how was working with Brian?"

Joe’s eyes light up. "Man, he’s so cool. I wish he were my partner."

Aeryk rolls his eyes. "Yeah, you say that now. Wait until you get to know him better."

"I heard that!" Brian calls from his office.

Aeryk laughs. "So have you been set up with an office yet?"

"Yup, it’s just opposite of the Chief’s." He points down the opposite end of the hall.

"Right on." Aeryk says patting the young man on his back. "I’ll swing by sometime and check it out. See yah later." He says walking off toward his office.

Shortly after Aeryk walks into his office, feeds his fish, and places his bag on his couch Brian walks in.

"What’s up?" Aeryk asks cheerfully.

"Nothin’." He says simply. "Just thought I’d drop by and see how you’re doing."

Aeryk arches a brow. "What do you want?"

Damn, he could always see right through me. "Well, I kinda need your help with something." He says closing the door and dropping onto the couch.

"Okay?" Aeryk asks warily.

"Well, it’s actually two something’s." The corner of his mouth curls up in an odd smile.

Aeryk leans back in his chair and stares at Brian, waiting for him to speak.

"Alright, I don’t wanna make you mad when I say this but," He pauses a moment. "Seeing as you’re my best friend and well, gay," He adds the last word in a whisper. "I was hoping you’d come with me to the mall and help me pick out a new outfit."

Aeryk’s eyes light up with devilish intent. "And what’s the special occasion, oh inept one in the ways of fashion?"

"I wanna take Alasen out to a nice restaurant, but I don’t know of any good ones. You usually handled that part when we dated the girls before."

Ah, the power I now wield over you Brian Johnson. You poor sap. "Sure I can do that." His eyes narrow slightly. "And stop being so stereotypical with me Brian." He adds seriously.

Brian pales slightly. "I know, I know." He says. "It’s just kinda weird seeing you in this new light. Once you told me, all those stereotypes started showing up in my mind. I know you’re not like that bud." He smiles.

Aeryk nods, satisfied. "Alright. Now leave me alone, I need to catch up on this damn work of mine."

Brian stands and leaves the room, with the door open.

Aeryk turns around in his chair and opens the blinds to allow the sun in his room. The warmth envelops his face and he couldn’t help but smile into it.

Ever since things between Brian and him went out into the open, his life slowly became better. He didn’t have to hide his emotions around Brian anymore, and now Jackie. He chuckles as he remembers the day when Jackie visited him while Alasen and Brian were off doing their own thing.

They sat down and watched a few movies. Occasionally, Jackie would blurt out "D’you think he’s cute?" which made Aeryk laugh uncontrollably.

Aeryk has gradually learned to accept himself and figured that his family would love him no matter what. They were that type of people. He visited the graves once during the week, and he wasn’t as forlorn as he used to be. Aeryk has put the event in the past, but knew he would never forget it. The pain inside his heart was lifted at long last, and Aeryk was starting to learn what it means to be truly happy.

Aeryk turned back into his office as he heard a slight beep come from his Opti-phone. He activates the phone, and Derryk’s face appears.

"Afternoon Chief, what’s up?"

"Welcome back Aeryk." Derryk says warmly. "How are you feeling?"

"Much better actually. Can’t say I’m happy to see the paperwork continue to pile up."

Derryk chortles. "I’ll try to see if I can get somebody to help you with that. Anyway, I need you to come into my office please."

"Cool, see you in a second." Aeryk deactivates the phone and heads toward Derryk’s office.

Aeryk, though not officially, is Derryk’s second in command over the elite force of the F.Y. Police.

Aeryk may not have been involved with the F.Y. as long as everyone else; he has been gifted with leadership abilities. He functions extremely well under most stressful situations and rarely looses his head in anger.

Derryk has chosen Aeryk, Brian, Jackie, Jeff, Aaron, Brent, and now Joe, to be members of the elite squadron of the F.Y. Police. Though they still handle the everyday jobs of the regular police force, when the time arises, they will travel around the world to handle cases regarding criminals too powerful for anyone else.

Aeryk has a feeling Derryk wants to speak with him about the recent robbery from his house. He walks up to Derryk’s office and looks at the insignia of a phoenix surrounded by the proper title of the F.Y. Police and their motto. Fushigi Yuugi Police: From the ashes we will arise, anew.

Aeryk knocks on the door, and enters the office. "What’s up Chief?"

Derryk’s office, much larger than any other in the building, is lavishly decorated with pre-earthquake African art, and is virtually priceless. Every so often Derryk’s mood will change about his surroundings, and so he redecorates from time to time. Today, he’s playing authentic African tribal music.

Derryk shuts off the CD player and motions for Aeryk to sit in the seat before him. The seats cover has been changed to resemble a Zebra skin. "Africa, huh?" Aeryk asks.

"Yeah, I was getting sick of the Grecian look." He says casually. "Anyway, I want you to take a look at this man." He presses a button on his desk, and the eastern wall slides open to reveal a monitor.

A picture of a tall man, about six feet, with haunting blue eyes and blonde hair appears on the screen. There was something oddly familiar to Aeryk about that man’s eyes.

"His name is Vincent Graves. He’s a partner at the archaeology firm, Davis and Graves. Does he look familiar to you?"

Aeryk nods slightly. "I’ve seen him on the news before."

Derryk grins. "Look closer, at his eyes."

Aeryk does so, and then it hit him. "The man who stole the book?"

Derryk nods. "We’ve confirmed his DNA from a strand of hair left in the oratory."

"Then why not arrest him?"

"It’s not that simple." Derryk says shutting the wall. "I have reason to believe he’s working under someone else."

Aeryk arches a brow. "Why do you say that?"

"Think about it. What would an anthropologist, who deals mostly with Europe, possibly need with a book written entirely in ancient Chinese?"

Aeryk shrugs. "Couldn’t tell yah. But, what about the other two with him?"

Derryk shakes his head. "Nothing."

"So what do you suggest we do?"

"I need for you to keep a tight watch over him for a while."

Aeryk moans. "Please Chief, I have so much work to do here."

"I’m sorry Aeryk, but only you, Brian, and Joe are available."

"Joe?"

"I’m keeping him with you and Brian for a while."

Aeryk dismisses it with a wave of the hand. "I’m assuming we’re going to start today?" Derryk nods and Aeryk presses his fingers across the bridge of his nose and closes his eyes. "Brian is going to lose it."

"I trust you can handle it Aeryk, that’s why I placed you with him in the first place."

Aeryk opens his eyes and snorts. "Thanks." He rises from the chair. "I’ll let Brian know and we’ll get started."

"Thank you Aeryk. Keep me posted."

Aeryk nods and heads out of the office, shutting the door with a long sigh. "My first day back and this has to happen."

"Hey Aeryk!" Alasen calls.

Aeryk looks down the hall and smiles slightly. "Hey Alasen, what’s up?"

"I can’t find Brian. We’re supposed to go out for lunch today, but he’s not in his office."

Aeryk rolls his eyes and walks up to Alasen. "I know where he is. I should’ve told you where to look first whenever you come here for him."

Alasen laughs. "You two are too funny. I’m happy Brian has a friend like you."

"Brian’s lucky to have a friend like me, remember that." Aeryk winks.

Aeryk and Alasen have come to terms about each other’s relationship with Brian, and they’ve become good friends. If Alasen were to ever have any ‘Brian troubles’ she knows to go to Aeryk about it. What better person that the only man who knows the real Brian?

"Just a moment, I’ve got to tell Joe something." He rushes down the hall further and peers his head into Joe’s office.

The office is awash with every kind of educational book ever written in recent history, most of them revolving around robotics. The room, having no windows, is lit by several halogen lights. Pictures of famous scientists hang around the room.

"Hey Joe, I need you to hang around here for a bit. I’ve got an assignment for us."

Joe nods and Aeryk heads back to Alasen. "Sorry about that. Chief has given us a new assignment we have to start today."

"Oh? Should I cancel lunch plans with Brian then."

"Nah, Joe and I can handle it for a while until Brian meets us."

The two take the elevator down to the main floor and head for the gym.

"Brian is always here, showing off." Aeryk smirks.

Sure enough, Brian was busy sparring with unsuspecting recruits in the corner. Alasen and Aeryk walk up, both with their arms crossed and faces emotionless.

Brian turns his head a moment as he notices Alasen. "Hey Alasen, how’re you," He lets out a grunt as a recruit sends a well placed kick into Brian’s stomach causing him to fall to the mat in an ungraceful heap.

Aeryk and Alasen laugh the loudest of all the recruits. "And so the mighty has fallen." Aeryk taunts.

Aeryk and Alasen grab one of Brian’s hands and help him up. "If it wasn’t for her, I would’ve won!" Brian snaps.

"Stop blaming the innocent for your faults Brian." Alasen wraps her arms around Brian’s waist and gives him a gentle kiss.

Brian smiles and squeezes Alasen’s small body. "I need to take a shower."

"Good, I need to talk to you also." Aeryk says.

Aeryk and Brian walk back into the locker room and Brian begins to shed his clothing, again, unashamedly.

"So what’s up Aeryk?" Brian asks stepping into the shower.

"We’ve got an assignment." Aeryk says blandly.

"Uh-oh, I don’t like the way you said that."

"Then you’re gonna love what I have to tell you next. We’re gonna play babysitter today."

Brian whirls around. "Tell me you’re joking!" Aeryk shakes his head slowly. "Ah crap!

"It’s not like I didn’t try to throw it onto someone else. But Chief wants us to do it."

"When do we start?" Brian looks balefully at Aeryk.

"Today." Aeryk responds, which brought another loud curse. "Hey, don’t worry about your lunch with Alasen. Joe and I can handle it until you come to meet us."

Brian roughly lathers his body, grumbling to himself. Aeryk finds himself checking out Brian’s body.

Damn it eyes keep away! But his body refused to cooperate. Okay, fine. Why in the hell am I still lusting over my best friend? Sure, he’s got a fantastic body, gorgeous eyes, and a great smile. But the man’s an insufferable slob!

He grins to himself. I guess we always want what we can’t have. "We should be able to hit the mall anyway. If we leave Joe alone to watch."

Brian turns to his friend and arches a brow. "Are you becoming irresponsible?"

"Shut up. I’m doing this for you remember?"

Brian smirks as he turns back to cleaning himself. "So who’s the target?"

"Oddly enough," Aeryk says sitting on a bench. "It’s the guy who stole Chief’s book."

Brian looks back at Aeryk amazed. "Serious?"

Aeryk nods. "All we need to do is watch him for a while until Chief thinks of something for us to do." He rises from the bench and finds a towel for Brian just as he finishes with the shower.

Brian thanks Aeryk and reaches for the towel. Without warning, Brian’s hand covers Aeryk’s and the strange electric shock runs through both their bodies.

There’s that feeling again! Brian looks at Aeryk wide-eyed. Why do I only feel this way when I touch Aeryk?

Please let go Brian, I don’t want to screw things up. Aeryk pleads.

Brian slowly removes his slight grip over Aeryk. "I-I’m sorry." He mutters.

Aeryk, being careful not to touch Brian, hands him the towel. "It’s okay." He has that strange look in his eyes, like the time when we first touched each other and when we kissed. Did he feel it too?

"So, uh, I’ll leave you two love birds alone. But I’m expecting to see you later alright?"

Brian smiles slightly. "Yeah, thanks." He says and Aeryk walks off. Damn it! I thought this was over with. He looks down at his hands and remembers the sensation. "I can’t be mad at him. It’s not his fault." He lets out a long sigh, wraps the towel around his waist, and sits on the bench where Aeryk sat.

"Am I wrong for doing this to him?" He asks. "Am I wrong for doing this to Alasen?" He heaves out a long sigh. "God knows I’m feeling something toward Aeryk, but I’m afraid. Aeryk had it easier, he doesn’t have to deal with the reaction of family, and I do. I’m sorry Aeryk." He bows his head down. "I don’t know what to do."

"Lady in the room!" Alasen calls jokingly as she turns the corner. She sees Brian’s dark look and walks over to him. "What’s the matter?"

Brian lets out a long sigh and brings Alasen onto his lap. "Nothing." He says lowly and places his head on her chest. "Hungry?"

Date: June 29, 3021
Time: 8:00pm
Location: Davis and Graves

Aeryk heaves out a long sigh. "Man, I can’t believe this crap."

"Yeah, tell me about it." Joe says. "We’ve been sitting here for hours and the man hasn’t even come out!"

"Maybe he called in sick today or something." Brian says looking at his watch. "I say we just call it a night. We need to hit the mall before it closes."

Aeryk nods and activates the car and they head off.

Meanwhile, inside the building, Vincent Graves watches the surveillance cameras and sees Aeryk’s unmarked car leave the alleyway.

"Persistent little cockroaches." He smirks smugly as he shuts off the monitor.

"Be careful of your analogies Vincent. Cockroaches can survive even the most toughest of situations." A woman, sitting the darkness of the office says.

"Don’t worry so much Jen." Vincent says turning to the woman. "How is the translation going?"

Jen rises from the shadow revealing a voluptuous woman, wearing a tight fitting cocktail dress, with long raven black hair and equally black eyes. "Going slowly. Damn earthquake." She curses. "Had it not have happened things would’ve been a lot easier for us to find the statues."

Vincent grins. "But once we are finished translating the book, it will show us the way to what your black heart desires, my Dark Lady." He bows dramatically.

Jen frowns slightly at the mockery. "If I didn’t need your silly connections I would’ve wiped that smug look of yours off your face."

"Too kind, my lady. But what if your father were to find out about your little ring of friends."

Jen turns an icy glare onto Vincent. "Don’t threaten me." She hisses. "You’re in this as much as I am. If I go down, you’re coming with me."

Jen is the daughter of the co-owner of Davis and Graves. She is also the leader of a world wide ring of thieves she calls "The Blue Dragons."

After the massive earthquake, several cities lost their means of protecting themselves from the lawless. Also, major crime fighting organizations such as the F.B.I. were lost forever in the damaging natural disaster. Funds were then placed into the F.Y. and its sister affiliates around the world. The grip on worldwide justice has been slow to regain its hold.

Because of that, crime rings like the Blue Dragons have gained an immense amount of power. The Blue Dragons are the most powerful and most feared crime ring in the world. Jen has remained entirely elusive and nothing regarding the illegal acts can be placed to her or Vincent. She has set up several legal fronts as a small, but effective, way to throw off the F.Y.’s scent. Her recent venture being her new club, boldly named the Blue Dragon Club.

"Tell the others that I want them here and prepared to leave at a moments notice." Jen orders. "And, as usual, be silent."

Date: June 29, 3021
Time: 9:12pm
Location: City Mall

"Now Brian," Aeryk begins as he and Brian enter an exclusively male, and immensely expensive, clothing store. "You asked me to help you and I will. But you have to do whatever I tell you."

Brian rolls his eyes. "So you’ve said time and again Aeryk. Alright, I’ll do whatever you tell me too."

Aeryk nods in satisfaction. "Now, one of the most simple, yet effective, way to pick out an outfit is to find colors that emphasize the better parts of your body."

"Which are?" Brian asks.

Aeryk darts Brian a nasty look. "I can easily tell you the worst parts of your body if you push me."

Brian raises his hands in a peace position. "I was just kidding." Though it would’ve been nice if you told me.

Aeryk arches a brow. "Okay. What parts of your body does Alasen compliment you on the most?" He asks casually working through the clothes racks.

"She likes my arms." He says with a shrug. "She keeps on telling me how much of an ‘arm’ woman she is."

Aeryk smirks. "Alright, then we’ll get something cut short on the sleeves, but loose fitting." He gives Brian a silencing look before Brian can profess how much he loves to wear tight clothing. "I think something different will be a nice shock to Alasen. How about this?" He pulls out a deep blue silk t-shirt for Brian. "Blue was always your color." He then walks over to a wall filled with every style of pants. He quickly finds a pair of off white pleated slacks. "If you’re going to Vue d’Mer you must look presentable. They’re finicky about that."

Aeryk looks around the store of their shoes and socks section. "Also, your shoes have got to go. You’ve worn those things out."

"But they’re comfortable." Brian complains.

"And out of style." Aeryk marches over to the shoes and quickly finds a pair of nice, round toed, shoes. "I hate it when you wear those silly pointed shoes. They look like women’s high heels. Oh, and find a pair of black socks while I look for a belt."

Date: June 29, 3021
Time: 10:00pm
Location: Aeryk and Brian’s Condo

After nearly and hour of shopping Aeryk and Brian make it home. Aeryk instructs for Brian to try on the clothes. "I’ll wait in the living room." He says.

A short while later, Brian walks into the living room to display his outfit. Aeryk rises from the couch and lets out a slight whistle. "Lookin’ good." He smirks. "Alasen’s gonna be all over you."

Brian smiles unsurely. "You sure this looks good on me?"

Aeryk gawks. "Of course I am! I helped pick it out."

Brian grins. "Thanks Aeryk." His eyes lock onto Aeryk’s smiling deep green eyes. How can I feel this way about another man? Aeryk, you’re making this so hard for me. I know I should be feeling something for Alasen, but it’s not happening. Brian walks over to Aeryk and wraps his strong arms around him. "Thank you for doing this for me Aeryk." He says pulling back slightly. He gazes into Aeryk’s eyes before he finds himself searching for Aeryk’s lips. He finds them, and his body wants more.

Continued in Part 5

Feed the Scribbler: luckycharms@e-scribblers.com.