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“Do you think it will work?” Jay’s voice seemed sceptical, blue eyes looking over the small chips in Zane’s hand. The team was surrounding the control panel located on the Bounty’s upper deck, all in their gi’s except for Nya and Lloyd. The blond nodded. “As long as we get close enough to one of them and implant the chip without them noticing, it will work like a charm.” For the past few months the team had been bonking their heads and getting a headache trying to figure out a way to get rid of… The issue they’ve been dealing with. Their evil doppelgangers, or the ‘Bizarros’ as Jay had started calling them, had somehow found a way to reappear in the physical realm, even after their first encounter with them back at Darkley’s. What was bothering them this time around though, was the fact that the dark ninja were not as easy to get rid of as the first time. Initially, the team thought it may be one more of Garmadon’s tricks but he had never fought them with the same threat twice. Needless to say, the last 3 months were a pain in the ass for the elemental masters. Not only were they always even when it came to power, but the Bizarros were dirty players. It wasn’t once when the evil Jay would electrocute Zane so bad his whole system would go out of line and he’d wake up back on the Bounty with his teammates beaten almost to a pulp. Needless to say, all of his clothes, including his gi were replaced by Wu with a fabric that actively avoids electricity. No one knew what the material was, but if it worked, no one dared to ask. “And how are we supposed to get this close to them? They know our every move, they’re us !” Kai voiced his issue with the plan, hands resting on his hips. “He has a point.” Cole spoke in agreement. “We can barely land a blow on them, how are we supposed to put the tracker on one of them without them realizing it?” Good thing Zane had already thought of this as well. “We switch.” “Huh?” “We switch out opponents. We know each other’s moves, but I doubt they do as much dual training as us. We switch who we’re up against and do our best to keep the fight as such until one of us is able to implant a tracker.” After clearing up his answer, the blond took a glance around his teammates, who seemed to be thinking over the idea. Soon enough Jay spoke, a knuckle to his bottom lip as he thought. “It could work. But how do we switch around? They fight unfairly, who knows what might happen?” “I could take the evil Jay?” A shrug came from the raven. “I am the master of earth and earth is one of the best conductors of electricity. If he tries to shock me I can try and redirect the lightning’s path with my powers.” “Have you done it before? ” Once again, the master of lightning seemed skeptical as he cocked an eyebrow at his best friend. “No, but we have time until they attack next. We can work on it.” “In that case I’ll take Zane.” Kai sighed. “Ice, fire. Seems a fair battle.” “I’m getting Kai. I still wanna get back at him for burning my hair.” Jay grumbled, crossing his arms in annoyance. After their 3rd battle with their clones, the evil master of fire had gone a bit overboard with his powers and had essentially burned the back of Jay’s hair. Safe to say, he now had a fade in the back instead of his usual neck length. “And that leaves Cole to me. I am more agile than he is due to our body mass difference so it should be a fair fight, for me at least. Not to mention he uses brute force before thinking it through.” The master of ice finished off their switching conversation, a collective nod being shared between the team. “I will work on the radius of the chips more, in case they turn out to be far from Ninjago City.” Nya spoke up soon enough, handing the now asleep Lloyd to her brother, who effortlessly scooped him up, the kid’s cheek smooshed as it rested against the shoulder of the brunette. With that, Nya took the chips from Zane and made her way out the room and towards the workshop. She had been quite the help around the bounty with the mechanical part, keeping the place running, having Jay help her fix the engine or the navigation system when it would run out of order here and there. Of course, she would still try and get to go with the guys on one of the missions, but given their opponents have been themselves for the majority of the time lately, they decided it’s best for her to sit this one out. “Hopefully this works. If we find their hideout we can at least confirm if Garmadon brought them back or not.” Kai sighed, one hand supporting Lloyd’s back as the blond curled up into Red. After the big battle back at the volcano and their discovery that Lloyd was the green ninja, Kai had become quite brotherly to the kid. Nya had mentioned it could be because of the way they grew up and he’s just used to taking care of someone. Either way, the master of fire was ready to take a bullet or a blade for the kid. Cole hummed. “And we can maybe find something that could help us get rid of them for good.” “ Hopefully ! I don’t think I can handle seeing my clone do another bizarre thing to my image.” Jay snorted at Kai’s comment, glancing at his teammate who had a sour expression on. “You said you liked how the mullet he had looked.” “ Yes, but I can’t give myself the mullet before he disappears! Otherwise he won’t stop rubbing it in my face.” “I’m unable to see why this bothers you so much, Kai.” “Because I didn’t think of it first! The layers, how much less hair gel i’ll need to use?! The-” Kai stopped midway, glancing at Lloyd, the kid still fast asleep. Putting one hand over his exposed ear for good measure, he answered Zane’s question fully, though whispering. “The fucker is a genious! If I copy him It’s basically me waving a white flag!” “You’re such a drama queen. He’s a literal copy of you. ” Cole scoffed, leaning off the control table as he waved Jay over on his way to the door. “C’mon, let’s figure out the redirecting lightining thing.”
Yeah, so. It indeed wasn’t as easy as it sounded. Even with their opponents being switched, the Bizarro’s initial confusion melted off quickly, and now the fight seemed even more brutal than usual. Everyone had their advantages but given they were the same person, whenever Zane fought his evil doppelganger he also felt the blows he himself laid. However, now that Kai was fighting the Bizarro Zane, the white ninja couldn’t feel any of his teammate’s attacks. Concluding to the fact that the evil ninja were going all out. The team originally got the alert for trouble in downtown Ninjago City, where their clones were, apparently, destroying the City Mall. By the time they had gotten to the scene, the whole first floor, and sadly Jay’s favorite arcade, were in total ruin. Let’s not even start on the bakery which had been burned down. After locating their clones, each in a different spot of the mall, the ninja quickly made sure everyone had a tracker on them before they split up. Following the more severe damage, such as columns being cracked or even toppled over, along with the car that the lottery company had placed in the middle of the mall as an example for a prize to be won now being on its roof in the fountain of the first floor, Zane was quick to find Bizarro Cole. Doing his best to keep himself quiet, he listened around for any footsteps. Once the two had gone in contact and the fight had initiated, it was quickly moved from the designer clothing shop Cole was taking apart, to the underground parking lot. It was a hard fall, especially with the force that this master of earth used to break the concrete beneath Zane’s feet, but he was quick to find a hiding spot. Long enough to check for any severe damage.
As of right now, the master of ice was leaning against one of the columns of the parking lot which separated the whole floor into sections. All of his system and limbs seemed to be in good shape, only his spinal cord being put a bit out of place from the fall. Jay would have to look for any minor damage later. The cars being parked throughout the place didn’t help either of the two, given the low visibility and the amount of space their opponent had to be hidden in. Good thing Cole’s favorite thing to do, unsurprisingly, was to throw expensive vehicles around like a kid being careless with its toys. Just as Zane took out a few shooting stars from the bandages wrapped around his ankle, he saw a Honda Civic fly just inches away from where he was hiding, colliding with the wall, the alarm going off along with the airbags inside. “This is getting boring, Snowflake!” Cole’s voice echoed through the cold space, Zane’s audio receptors quickly picking up on the echo. Based on his calculations, the evil double of his teammate must be around 100 meters from the column he used as hideout. He can either reveal where he is and face him head on, or use the car that was parked beside him to move on the other side and circle behind him- A black Nisan was the next to go, creating a chain reaction as the black Jeep besides Zane, along with the Audi which was beside it were squished and moved meters away from the blond. His only coverage now was the cement pillar which his back was against. Welp, okay then. Taking in a deep breath, the shooting stars in place between his fingers, the master of ice was quick as he slid on one knee to the center of the drive path, Bizarro Cole finally in sight his arms stretched above his head once more as an SUV was in his hold, ready to be thrown. In a split second, a wicked grin spread across the raven’s face, red eyes glinting in delight, before the car was thrown in Zane’s direction. The stars went flying towards his opponent before he moved out the way, just in time before the vehicle’s left side was crushed under its own weight. “Why hide so much? This is supposed to be a fight, not a game of hide and seek!” A loud cracking was heard as the floor beneath Zane’s feet was now adorned with little cracks, and vibrations been sent off throughout the whole building. A piece of concrete with green paint slid next to the car Zane was behind. One of the parking pillars. If he continued in this state the whole mall would collapse on top of them. Just as the master of ice was about to move, a small gush of wind got his attention. Whipping around, he came face to face with Cole’s fist, next thing his system registered being the car he slammed into. He could feel his inner workings being cramped up in his facial compartments as one side of his face paneling was bent inwards and on it’s way to fall off where he had taken the blow. Fortunately he opened his eyes just in time to see the piece of concrete flying towards him, moving to the side as he put all his weight on his shoulder before fixing it and landing on his feet, kneeling on the ground. As the Bizarro was making his way to where he was, Zane used his powers to ice off the floor, causing his opponent to almost slip. With a groan, Cole lifted his leg, only to slam it down and break the slippery surface. But just as he did, more ice appeared, this time spreading up to his knees. During his initial confusion, Zane was able to get in close proximity to him, chip in hand. But, down on his luck, Cole had noticed the master of ice had left his old position and saw him coming in at the last second, leading to the blond instead landing a blow to his stomach. Breaking the ice, the raven was sent a few meters back before he slammed his fists in the concrete, slowing down his speed and leaving the floor into a rubbled trail. The two stood still for a bit, waiting to see each other’s next move as well as catching their breaths. How was Zane supposed to get in close proximity to him when it would lead to Cole using his super strength? He was good in close combat but even his Cole was cautious when they’d spar. Gods above knew this Cole wasn't. There must be a way to- His eyes focused on again as the evil ninja seemed to have used his arms to thrust himself forward and into the air, to get close without Zane freezing his legs once more. He only had a second to slide to the side before Cole’s fist met the floor where the nindroid just was, cracking up the hard surface. Whipping his head to face his enemy, Cole was quick to lean back and dodge a kick to the face, wrapping his hand around the ninja’s ankle and literally throw him to the other side like a rag doll. All air was knocked out of Zane’s artificial lungs as his back met the floor, his system going static for just a second before a hand was wrapped around his throat and he felt weight on his hips. Opening his eyes, squinting as he instinctively gripped at the hand which choked him, he saw none other than his opponent straddling him, a cruel grin etched on his features. “Gotcha.” His voice was cold as the ice Zane summoned, eyes seemingly glowing in this dreadful crimson, his fang like teeth on full display as Cole loomed over the nindroid. “You’re quite tolerable when someone’s shutting you up.” Thick fingers squeezed around his throat. Fuck, this was not good. He was pinned down, not to mention Cole seemed to wait for what move he might make before crushing his exoskeleton with his strength. Or maybe he just wanted a few seconds to taunt the nindroid before basically decapitating him. How could Zane not take into account that the evil double of his teammate may use his weight as an advantage? He needed to think fast. He could still reach into the folds of his belt to get the tracker but Cole would noticed the movement, both of Zane’s hands were crawling at his wrist in a weak attempt to get his neck free. “No use, babe. You’re quick enough to dodge me but your attempts are pathetic when it comes to my strength,” Bizarro Cole’s voice only seemed to grow more smug as he stared down at the ninja below him, taking in the view. It was quite the surprise to at last be against someone other than himself, now being able to use his full power instead of having to be fucking cautios so he doesnt give himself a broken rib. Now he could be as rough as he wanted to. Who knows, maybe even get this Zane out of order for good, unlike that idiot Jay and his stupid electricity. It was fun to watch the pathetic blond try and come up with a plan to get out of this situation on his own, his eyes flickering. He must be gripping on quite the important wire there. An idea. His eyes kept their gaze on Zane as his free hand moved to the collar of his gi, pulling it down enough to loosen the fabric, watching as the nindroid’s expression turned to confusion before realization hit. “You know, I’ve always wondered how the fuck you worked.” Pulling the fabric aside, Cole slapped one of Zane’s hands off as he exposed his chest, his eyes quickly finding the small panelling gap. His grin was almost to his ears as he pushed his fingers at the small crack, using his strength to bend the metal enough to grip it properly. “D-don’t-” “You gonna stop me?” His voice was cold as his eyes shot to meet Zane’s, who only hissed as Cole squeezed his throat further. “And how exactly?” His hand finally got enough of a grip to open up the nindroid’s chest cavity, giving it a harsh pull as the metal plate was ripped off the hinges. Zane choked out a pained scream, trashing under the evil master of earth whose eyebrows shot up, his smirk now one of surprise. “What, that hurt?” He scoffed, looking at the sight below him as his eyes picked on the tears threatening to fall down the sides of Zane’s face as the ninja gasped for air, pathetically trying to kick Cole off himself. Glancing to the panel in his hand, the Bizarro chould only look at it in some kind of sick amusement. “I wonder if Zane felt that… Who knew a machine can feel pain. It was just a couple of hinges!” The cruel mockery of the ninja echoed in the parking lot as Zane’s system was on the brink of crashing, error windows opening and closing in his vision while trying to come up with a way out. The pain had shot through him like a bullet, and by Cole’s reaction, he might find it fun to continue torturing him. “You do… know he dies if you kill me, right?” Zane rasped as he fought for air, catching the raven’s attention. A loud scratch of metal was registered by his sensors as Cole had thrown his chest panelling to the side, the doppelganger licking his lips as he leaned down so he was inches from Zane’s face. “Maybe… But considering the whole fight I haven’t felt a blow your Cole’s taken, I doubt that rule applies as well.” Zane flinched, cold fingertips being dragged over his energy core, then nails. He could practically feel the bizarro’s breath in his face along with the wolfish grin he wore watching the master of ice struggle beneath him. “I won’t risk it of course, sadly we need the fucker.” A choked sound from the nindroid as Cole’s fingers wrapped around one of the wires in his chest. “But that doesn’t mean I won't mess ya up a little. Who knows when i’ll get the chance to fuck up your system again.” With that, Zane trashed once more as the wire was ripped from it’s place, sparks flying through the torn end of the covering rubber. Who knew it would be this fun to ruin a nindroid. Of course he wouldn’t do anything that severe, as much as he wished to. He can’t have the risk of his own teammate dying mid battle. Not to mention the bitching his Kai will do if his boyfriend randomly collapses and never turns back on. Still, nothing that bad will happen if he messed up a few wires right? Furthermore, the expression on the ninja’s face might be his new favorite picture. He was usually always so damn collected and now he looked about ready to pass out or cry, or both! “F-fuck you…” Cole’s brows shot up in surprise once more as he couldn’t help but laugh. “Look who knew how to curse! I honestly didn’t believe it was in your vocabulary, Snowflake.” The glare the ninja sent him was so priceless he wished he had a camera to take a picture. Hung it up on his wall maybe.
All the meanwhile, Zane’s head was about ready to start smoking with the amount of thinking he was doing, trying to figure out how to get Cole off him and place the tracker. The proximity was enough, he was literally inches away from him but how was he supposed to do this without getting caught? “I wonder what else i can get out of you…” Cole’s voice was quiet, dripping with venom, but so loud, having his face be inches from Zane’s-
Wait. Wait, no, no that won’t work… would it? No there’s no way. Fingers traced another wire. But what other choice did he have? Soon enough Cole’s amusement will run thin and he might go more severe, figure out ripping his arm off won’t be too bad of an idea. A sharp tug at the cable made Zane flinch. Slim fingers dug their nails into the pale flesh of Cole’s wrist. The bizarro gripped onto the wire, connecting Zane’s core to his legs' motor system. He won’t be able to run away if he pulls it out. Cole's voice echoed in his ears once more as one blue eyes stood barely open to see the pleased expression on his enemy’s face. “What’s wrong? Cat got you-” Before Zane could back out or think further, his hand at last left Cole’s wrist to grip the collar of his black shirt, pulling him down. He felt the hand leave his chest cavity as their lips crashed together, the quick, dull pain from the collision fading away. The duo seemed to freeze, one side from the shock, the other from fear of what the reaction might be. Of course, once the gravity of the situation seemed to settle down, Cole was obviously capable of pulling away. He was stronger than Zane, not to mention the blond was quite weak from the overloading of his system. But for some reason he didn’t. Zane couldn’t figure out why he was still kissing him. Nor why Cole wasn’t pulling away. …Nor did he expect the hand on his throat to loosed it’s grip just a little… or pull him closer. This was not an outcome he expected, nor calculated for that matter. Neither was the information that Zane quite… liked this. It sent this jolt of unfamiliar rush through him as he felt Cole’s lips press against his in return, not to mention the low groan which was heard from the raven. Still, he used the situation to his advantage, releasing the grip on Cole’s shirt to wrap his arm around his neck. The closer the better. He felt the hand which was previously used to tore his chest open slide to his waist, angling his hips up as the kiss was quick to become almost feral. A warm tongue licked at his lips, sending a shiver down his spine. Parting his lips, Cole was quick to take action, exploring the new area as his fingers dug into the synthetic skin of Zane’s waist. Gods, this felt amazing. He didn’t even mind the dull ache around his throat anymore. If anything it made the kiss even better- Focus!! Slowly opening one of his eyes, confirming that Cole was fully distracted, Zane did his best to discreetly push his fingers under his belt, looking around only for a second before he grasped at the tracker hidden between the fold. His eyes squeezed shut, biting back a weak whimper as he felt Cole rut his hips against his. Why on Earth was this the only outcome he was able to think off to get away? From one difficult situation he got himself into another even more difficult situation! Fighting back the urge to grind back against the master of earth, the nindroid snaked his hand up to his back and around his neck, pulling him down closer to himself. Luckly, Cole was too busy kissing him senseless to notice Zane clipping the tracker under the collar of his leather jacket. A groan escaped Cole’s throat at the new proximity, their chests pressed firmly to each other, although now he was mindful of the big hole in Zane’s. For some reason. He didn’t know what it was, but it could be the fact that he just felt so good beneath him. He did have a quick thought about things escalating like this when he first got on top of the white ninja but he didn’t expect to have this guy, this goody two shoes, to actually pull him down into a makeout session mid fight.
Nor did he expect to find himself loving this so much. What was it with this one? Honestly though, Cole didn’t really care right now, not when he had his hand undoing the belt holding this stupid robe cloth closed over the blond’s chest. He cared even less when he’d hear and have his hand feel those sweet keens and whimpers leave Zane’s throat, his fingers giving it a squeeze. Heavy breaths left his lips whenever they'd break contact, only to tilt their heads on the opposite side and clash their mouths together once more. After he finally got the belt knot undone, large hand slid up Zane's stomach at the same time as the nindroid felt fangs dig into his lower lip. If he needed oxygen he'd have none as of the moment, slowly losing himself in the touches given to him from the man above. His hands found their way into the dark hair as he tugged at the strands, a huffed breath hitching in his throat as he felt Cole's tongue piercing press against his tongue once more. The whole parking lot had grown eerie quiet except for the noises the two made on the concrete floor, the evidence of their fight surrounding them. A pale hand left dark hair, only to slide down the broad chest of the Bizarro, who hummed against his mouth, a soft smack being heard as he broke the kiss. A quiet curse was registered by the nindroid as at last the hand around his throat left to join the other one on his stomach, replaced by Cole's mouth. He had to bite down on his lower lip to fight back a moan as fangs dug into the flesh of his throat, his hand gripping the fabric of the raven's shirt. A chuckle came from above him, ringing in his ears. “Who knew you could play dirty.” His voice was hushed as he ran his tongue along Zane's throat. A cold sensation ran down the side Cole's neck. “I'm full of surprises.” Before the dark ninja could react, an ice blast was sent to the side of his neck, freezing his whole head in a block of ice. With a quick hit to the base of the other side of his throat, Zane hit the bundle of nerves responsible for the motor movement. Cole fell limp on top of him, the ice crashing as it met the concrete besides Zane’s head. Silence fell over as the master of ice caught his breath and just let the situation dawn on him, staring at the ceiling. What the hell did he just do? And most importantly why did this feel so nice? It shouldn’t feel nice! He could never look at his teammate the same after he’s had this Cole’s tongue down his throat! A sigh left his lips. Now was not the time to think about this. He had to get out of here and help the others before the raven on top of him woke up. Using the last of his strength to roll him to the side, the blond finally was able to sit up, looking at the unconscious master of earth beside him for a few. He felt a bit bad for tricking him like this, mainly because he was somehow able to get Cole's guard down and he took advantage of it. Gods, he was just as bad as his evil double. Once his belt had been fastened around him waist and his gi was back in place, Zane took one final glance at the raven. Raising his hand, he engulfed his arms and legs in ice for good measure. Then he was quick to jump back to the first floor from the hole in the ground he originally was slammed through. His right arm would go limp every once in a while from the damage Cole had done earlier, not to mention the ache in his chest where the panel was ripped out, leaving his core and inner workings exposed. Thankfully, his feet were still perfectly fine, as he had to quickly hide back behind the corner he was about to turn, dodging a block of dark ice, which crashed into the wall opposite of him. Glancing over the edge, he was glad to see that all of his teammates were fine, and in close proximity, only the difference in floors being taken into account. Taking a hold of his hands, cupping them together, he pressed the small gap between his thumbs to his lips before blowing air into the small opening. As a result, an owl-like noise echoed through the open space of the mall, catching the attention of both the ninja and the Bizarros. Luckily his teammates were quick to react to his signal. First was Kai, who landed quite the blow on the evil master of ice, sending him into one of the bookstore's shelfs. Next to go was Jay, who decided to pull his evil self’s trick and shocked Bizarro Kai with enough voltage to get his hair go static and for the brunette to drop unconscious on the floor. Cole soon enough joined the others, jumping down from the second floor as Zane was waiting for all of them by the ruined main entrance. Jay looked him over, out of breath. “The hell happened?!” The nindroid could ask the same, given all of his friends were in quite the rough shape as well. Kai’s face was full of bruises, Cole and Jay’s hands burned up from the fight with the other evil ninja. But given half of his own face was ready to fall off its screws he got why he’d ask. “We’ll talk later, let's go before they wake up.” Zane’s eyes actively avoided Cole’s gaze as the ninja exited the building.
“You did WHAT?! ” Zane squinted, slightly jumping at the loud yelp from his fellow lightning ninja. The team had gotten back at the bounty a few minutes prior, the master of ice sitting at one of the stools by the living room table, his teammates surrounding him. Jay had insisted he look over the damage as soon as the team was back but then the blond was firm on first talking with the team as a whole about what happened. “I had no other choice and this was the only solution I could come up with.” Zane explained, a breath leaving his lungs as he couldn’t bring himself to look at the master of earth who was beside the counter. “Couldn’t you use your power?” Kai asked, clearly just as baffled as Jay, who stood frozen with his jaw almost to the floor, staring at the master of ice. Zane shook his head. “He had his hand around my throat. He would have crushed my nerve system and my exoskeleton if I tried something of the sort. This was the only way I figured in which I could distract him.” “Making out with him? Really?! ” Jay’s voice screeched in his ears once more, a small jump of his shoulders making the blond tense as his chest cavity was still exposed, his sensors registering the pain. “Jay.” Cole spoke at last, catching the attention of their teammate. “Zane said there was no other option, so there must not have been one. He got the tracker on him didn’t he?” “Wha- Yeah, but-” “Then?” Blue was silenced by the master of earth who kept his gaze solid and determined. Lightning scoffed as he soon enough crossed his hands. “Nothing.” The murmur was said in such a way that it was obvious there was something. Nonetheless Jay could also see the point the raven proposed. The team grew quiet for the next few minutes, the tension high as Zane kept his head low. He knew they wouldn’t react well to such information, but he couldn’t help himself to keep it a secret. Not to mention he felt like he should talk about this to Cole at least. Kai was the first to break the silence, a sigh leaving his lips. “Alright, we’re all tired, it’s late, not to mention we have to take care of the damage from the fight. We’ll talk about this tomorrow.” His words were an obvious sign that the conversation was over for now, sending one final glance over the ninja before exiting to make his way to the medical room. Jay sent a glance to the nindroid before following the master of fire, leaving Cole and Zane behind.
None of the two seemed to make a move to leave. Zane knew Jay would call him over to the workshop after he was done treating his wounds, and that the whole repair session would be uncomfortable. He could see why the lightning master was upset at him, he did get intimate with the enemy, but he himself wasn’t happy with what he did… To a point that is. Of course, he saved the details of them… making out and grinding on each other. It was bad enough that he kissed him, he didn’t want to embarrass himself by sharing he got so carried away he was almost undressed. He also didn’t want to embarrass his Cole. The good one, that is. Speaking of him, he had grown quiet. He didn’t look at Zane, just had his arms crossed over his chest, leaning on the counter behind him once more. “I… apologize if I have made you uncomfortable… ” Cole’s gaze snapped up, a bit surprised at the sudden apology given to him. A bushy brow furrowed. “What?” A small smile of amusement grew on the raven’s lips. “Frosty you’re fine. You said it yourself, this was the only way you could get away. If you haven’t done it you wouldn’t be able to get away at all. ” “Yes but… he is you, evil but still you.” Zane expressed his worry, looking down at his hands as he flexed his fingers. “I hope I haven't made things awkward between us.” Cole’s shoulders relaxed, his smile turning warm at his friend’s obvious distress. Leaning off the counter, he walked over to the blond, a calloused hand resting on his shoulder. Heavy but careful, given he had no idea about how bad the injuries Zane had were. “Nothing’s changed, buddy. You have nothing to worry about.” Meeting Cole’s gaze, the master of ice let the words sink in, the expression shown on his friend’s face genuine and warm. Why did he get disappointed when the color of his eyes was the usual forest green instead of blood red? “Get Jay to fix you up and go rest.” The warmth of his hand left Zane’s shoulder, soft footsteps making their way to the hallway. “See ya tomorrow tin can!” With that, Cole was gone. Leaving Zane all alone in the cold living room, fighting back the shivers which came with remembering calloused hands on his waist and fangs on his neck.
----- CHAPTER BREAK -----
The following days were… weird, to say the least.
After the whole fiasco at the mall, Jay had still been upset for the most part about Zane's course of action, even after their meeting the following morning. Kai had made amends with it, so has Cole as it was obvious given he was sure to confirm things were good between him and the master of ice.
Still, the whole situation had left a lot on Zane's plate. Not to mention the few times he'd wake up late at night, stiff as a board given he'd have recurring dreams about what happened between him and the evil Cole. He didn't even know he could have dreams still, with how rare they were recently after a few repair sessions with Jay. At one point the blond thought that his teammate might've set up some code to make him purposely relive the whole thing out of pettiness. But even Jay wasn't that evil. It was more of a Kai move if he had any knowledge about programming.
Furthermore, the nindroid had obviously been trying to stay clear of the master of earth, still feeling both guilt and embarrassment when faced with the man. He knew that the two had cleared the air between them the same day, but nonetheless Zane would always, just for a fraction of a second, see red instead of green when the two would make eye contact from across the room or durring training.
Chopping up another tomato, which soon met the fate of the rest of the veggies the nindroid had cut up and put in the pan to turn to sauce, Zane had fallen into his usual cooking state. It always relaxed him given he already knew the recipes by core, and he only needed to use his brain when doing the measurements. The rest of the time he could zone out and not think about the world, just the kitchen utensils and the smell of food filling the air.
Hiss teammates were somewhere off on the Bounty, either training on the deck or in their rooms, safe for Kai, who was helping Lloyd with his home studies. For a guy who claimed to not be the sharpest tool in the box, Kai had turned out to be quite a good History and Chemistry teacher, usually taking over when Zane couldn't teach their younger teammate. After some consideration from Wu, his nephew was placed under the care of the young elemental masters to home study him, hence his training to become the prophesied green ninja would get in the way of the kid attending public school.
Turning off the stove for the sauce to simmer, Zane turned his attention to the pot with boiling water, giving the noodles cooking inside a quick stir. Today when asking the others what they'd like for him to prepare for dinner, they all didn't have any specific idea so he went for the safest route, aka spaghetti. It was quick to do, plus this way Jay won't have to separate most of the ingredients in his food since there would only be the sauce and the noodles, the guy being a picky eater.
In addition it was Zane's turn to patrol the city tonight, so he'd be able to change out of his home clothes to his uniform and be in town on time.
“Hey, Zane.” A familiar voice registered in his ears, quickly recognizing its owner.
“Good evening, Nya. Any progress on your project?” The ninja gave a final stir to the noodles before putting the lid back over the pot. Turning to face his friend, he used the towel by the sink to clean his hands off the condensation from the boiling water.
“Fixed up the oil pump, so that's something.” The raven seemed quite beaten, which was understandable given she spent the whole day in the workshop, fixing some new vehicle she was working on. “As for the trackers, it seems like those bastards are way further out than we thought.”
After the team had returned from the City Mall, Nya had been quick to check up on the tracker Zane had implanted on the Bizarro after helping out with treating the others’ wounds. At first it worked, even though it was showing that their doppelgangers were still at the mall. Understandable, most of them had been knocked out not even 20 minutes ago, and Cole
was
iced to the floor.
But by the next morning, the tracker had vanished into thin air. Nya had spent the whole day looking over every corner on the map of Ninjago City and never found it.
“Do not worry, there will be plenty of opportunities for us to implant another tracking device with a better radius.” Zane's voice was comforting as he at last drained the pot, the boiling going water down the drain.
Nya scoffed. “And have you forced to kiss that scum again? No way.” Good thing he was a nindroid, otherwise he might've dropped the pot and given himself a 3rd degree burn.
Kai had, obviously, explained to his sister what had happened at the mission, given the girl wasn't blind to the obvious one-sided tension between Jay and Zane, not to mention the awkwardness between the blond and Cole.
“I'll just work up some other way to track them down.”
“Nya, it's fine. Really.” Once he mentally calmed down, and the pot was safely put aside, the master of ice faced Kai's sister. “It was a solution which worked out after all. Of course, for your comfort, the chances of this scenario happening again are highly unlikely. Cole would be more on guard than before after this.”
For some reason, the same thing that gave Nya comfort also made Zane feel… disappointment? Maybe dissatisfaction? He wasn't sure what it was but it got him a bit bummed that the idea of him kissing his enemy won't be possible again.
Which, might I add,
is totally absurd!
Zane had no idea
why
he had been having such thoughts, not to mention such emotions being processed by his system. As mentioned before, this was his
enemy
they were talking about! He wasn't supposed to be
sad
about not kissing him again, he wasn't supposed to
kiss him at all
in the first place!
“Hopefully. Still can't believe it had to come to that.” Nya scoffed, finally cleaning her hands off the motor oil properly before she started helping Zane out by setting the table. “You and Jay seem to be back on good terms.”
“Yeah. We had a conversation about it during the last fix up session and we ‘cleared the air’ between us, as Jay would put it.” It was an awkward talk indeed but at least the nindroid now knew of the main reason why the master of lightning had been so upset with him.
It wasn't particularly the fact that he had to kiss their enemy but… more or less who the enemy
appeared
to be.
Lets just say, the whole ‘redirecting lightning’ training Jay and Cole seemed to have done had opened a new perspective for the blue ninja, to put it simply.
Of course, Zane did promise him to not say a word on the matter, given Jay was still figuring stuff out, especially given his whole situation with Nya. Plus it wasn't really his place to get involved.
“Good, I can't stand Jay holding a grudge. He gets so sarcastic it's hard to decide whether to laugh
or
punch him.” With that, the last piece of cutlery was placed on the table before Nya turned to face White. “I'll call over the others.”
Zane only nodded as he brought the bowl with spaghetti to the table, along with the sauce in a separate dish, just in case. When it came to such dinners the team would usually settle on everyone placing as much food as they feel like on their plates, as opposed to when the blond would prepare every portion evenly with more complex meals.
The dinner was quick, chatter filled as always, not to mention the big whine session Kai went on about the nearby convenience store not having his favorite ice cream like usual and having to settle for cookies as dessert. Which, spoiler, most have been eaten by Cole and Lloyd the day prior. There was a reason Cole would only be let to babysit the kid when there were
no
sweets on the ship.
Fixing the last of his gear in place, Zane tightened the bandages around his wrists, closing his hand in a fist to make sure they were firm but not too tight, before heading out. A knock caught his attention, turning to see Cole leaning on the doorframe, the raven now in casual sweatpants and a graphic t-shirt, his usual sleepwear.
“Hey, heading out?” Cole's hand slowly fell by his side, finding its way in the pocket of his sweats.
Zane nodded, looking back at his wrist to check the bandages again. Totally not because he felt weird trying to hold eye contact. He was struggling with it already but now it was even worse. “Yeah, Kai agreed on washing the dishes instead so I figured a few additional minutes of patrolling won't be a bad call.”
A hum from his teammate before the room grew quiet, Zane's feet somehow unable to move now. The tension in the room was awkward, which it usually never was, up until last week.
“Look, I just… I can see you're still not over the whole mall thing, and I don't blame you, it is a weird uhm…
situation
.”
Cole cleared his throat, clearly unsure how to speak on the subject. He was never one to be good at confrontation, even for such a silly thing. “But I wanted to say that it
really
isn't a problem for me. I don't like that things are uncomfortable between us but I totally understand if you need time.”
“I know.” Zane sighed, finally letting his arms fall by his side. “It's just a… strange spot for me to be in.”
“Hey, I get it. I'd feel the same if I had to kiss one of them.” The raven lifted his hands in defense, an easy smile on his lips. Zane tried not to stare. “But as I said before, it was your only option, I don't judge you for doing it.”
It was a kind of relief, to have Cole confirm that this wouldn't change stuff between the two of them once more. After all, it really was the only solution he could come up with. The white ninja was never one to overthink something. He was always rational, especially if it came to a decision he had to make during a mission. But then again this was quite an interesting position to be in, having kissed a clone of someone you never considered pursuing romantically. Even if that clone was the total opposite of said person.
Especially after you had found yourself enjoying it to the point of having to fight for the control over your own body.
“Thank you, Cole.” Zane spoke, turning to face the raven at last, an evenly relaxed smile tugging at his own lips. “I'm glad this isn't making you feel uncomfortable around me.”
“Psh, water under the bridge. You're all good.” With a pat on his shoulder, a small chuckle was Zane's onlynresponse. “I won't keep ya any longer, have fun tin can!” That was the last thing Cole said before walking down the hall to his room, leaving the blond to continue with his routine for the night.
The city was quiet, as usual. Of course there were still a few people getting home from work, a takeaway car here and there, young adults walking to the club, it being Friday night, but nothing more than that. Zane didn't expect any action to happen, since it was rare for such a thing during patrol, which was weird with the reputation Ninjago City had. Most of the time the only more major thing that would happen would be the blond helping a drunk person catch a safe ride or escorting them home.
So, with that in mind, Zane was left to wander around, jump from rooftop to rooftop and try to clear his head. The conversation with Cole had suited his nerves a little, but that nagging feeling in his gut still stayed.
He had no real reason to still be stuck up on the situation, not when everything had been cleared with his teammates. Furthermore he should feel
relieved
by his statistics resulting in 0,00012% chance of such events repeating. Now that he had done this slip up, the Bizarro Ninja must be more on guard than usual and willing to expect him and his team to go at any lengths, but they will find a way to work around it.
Even with that in mind, his system could not stop bringing up the moment, putting it on loop like a broken record. As much as he'd try his vision always went back to his back against the concrete, large hands gripping his waist to the point of bruising, hips rutting against his own-
Zane shook his head. Get yourself in order for the Gods’ sake, you're on patrol. You'll think about how big of a disaster your life had become later.
Jumping down from the rooftop he had been,the blond landed on the fire escape of a small apartment building, looking up and down the alleyway he had found himself in. He always liked to start with the downtown, the more quiet neighborhoods, like a small warm up before he got to the busy hot spots for the night life.
So far he hasn't seen many people, which was as per usual, so he didn't have much to worry about in hindsight. Nonetheless, that fact didn't distract him from the everlasting possibility that anything can happen. Even if the city was relatively safe, which was a weird thing to say given how many fights the team had had
in
said city, there were still small crimes which usually the police dealt with. But that didn't mean the ninja wouldn't have their own patrolling system and would get in on the action if they saw it happening.
The alleyway was clear, safe for a few stray cats rummaging inside the trash containers. Seems like this would be another slow night. Nothing unexpected.
Climbing over the side of the fire escape, silent as the wind, Zane stepped foot on a rooftop one more, the cold breeze of the night bringing forward a sense of comfort. The ninja quite liked the sense of tranquility the city would adorn when midnight hits and the neon lights would illuminate the buildings, a window or two still lit up with the residents inside still awake. It was a weird change from the usual calmness which the woods had provided, but it still felt peaceful. It also reminded him of the reason he was fighting against all that seek injustice. For such peace and quiet, so the people of Ninjago city could go to sleep with ease.
Closing his eyes, Zane took a deep breath in, letting the cold air fill his lungs, chest rising and falling as he exhaled.
“You know, you're quite the wolf in sheep's clothing for someone who refuses to even
think
the word ‘idiot’.” The voice broke the calm atmosphere, causing the nindroid to spin on his heels, startled at first. Only to feel the feeling in his gut sharpen. “Not to mention a tease and a cockblock.”
Cole exhaled the smoke, flicking the half smoked cigarette off the rooftop and down the street, his hand returning to the pocket of his leather jacket. “I expected it from the blue one honestly, but you get the cake!”
The bizarro had seemingly appeared out of nowhere, although Zane would've definitely heard him had he just landed on the other side of the roof. Had he been following him? No, he would've noticed.
Just as he had finally started to stop thinking about him here he was again! Was the universe against him or something? Seriously!
“I'd feel remorseful, had I cared.” Zane's voice was sharp as he kept his gaze on the raven, ready to move if he attacked. “Furthermore I recall you saying your team was
quite active
in such a field. I doubt you were left that affected.”
To his surprise, the scoff the bizarre version of teammate let out was more amused than smug. “As if I'd let any of those fucks close to me.”
“You let your own enemy in your proximity, who knows how low you might step.”
“Not as low as you had, Snowflake.” And the flash of fangs was back as the raven took a few steps closer. Zane replied with a step back, although it took his body a moment to respond. “How'd your little team take the news of you making out with the very same person you try to off? Basically offer yourself on a silver platter… I could've gotten quite low
there
had I not been knocked out.”
Another step forward, two steps back, still reluctant. Soon enough Zane would be right at the rooftop's edge. He was glad his mask was in place to hide the flustered state he was in. “As if I'd let go of my dignity for filth such as yourself.”
“Watch your mouth, I could practically hear the curse word almost slip.” He
really
found this amusing, huh? Taunting Zane like this, cornering him further to the edge of the building for his own entertainment. It wasn't that surprising actually, this was not
his
Cole after all.
It was weird though, him being on his own. Whenever their doppelgangers would be in town they'd all be together, at least when they'd make their presence known. Now it was just him and Zane. None of their teammates around at the dead of night…
Zane swallowed.
“Where are the other Bizarros?”
“ ‘Bizarros'? Is
that
what you guys call us?” The pure humor in Cole's voice set Zane on edge. “
Gods
, you guys are lame. Had it not been for my lack of want for action I would've already had your arm ripped off like I should've done back at the mall.”
When did he get so close? The raven was now just a few steps from the nindroid, who's heels were already an inch from the edge. He knew he could call back up, he
should
call back up… But something about this interaction was off. Cole himself was off.
“What are you doing here?”
“A guy can't take a stroll through the city?” A bushy eyebrow was cocked at him, red eyes reflecting the city lights.
“Not yourself.”
“Quite the feisty one, aren't ya?”
“I don't particularly
like
individuals such as yourself.”
“But you
did
seem to enjoy having my tongue down your throat, didn't you?”
“As
if
.”
Zane's teeth gritted as he glared at the clone of his teammate. The feeling in his stomach was stronger than ever, along with the urge to get closer to the evil master of earth, even with the space between them already being quite limited.
His hands in fists by his sides, he held his ground, doing his best to keep up the eye contact. As much as he wanted to look away he just- couldn't! What
was
up with him?! He should've called someone by now, gotten into a fight with him but all they've done was spit insults and bark at each other. The raven hadn't even
attempted
to land a blow on him, and Zane had so much time to freeze him up to the neck yet all he did was just stare and bicker!
Which wasn't this Cole's style
at all
.
Something was definitely up.
“What do you want?”
The bizarro let out an agitated sigh. “So many fucking questions.”
Next thing Zane knew, a hand was gripping at his face, his own once more around a thick wrist before lifting. Just as he was about to shoot ice at his opponent, his face was let go. Cole was quick, grabbing at the blond's hand, yanking it with such force it made the master of ice spin around, finding himself in a chokehold. He was met with a view of the city along with the realization he was actually at the edge of the roof now.
“Next time you try to put a tracker on me, be as smart as you claim to be, and hide it somewhere better.” The words rang in Zane's ears even with the low tone in which they were spoken. Slim fingers gripped at a muscular arm and as the master of ice tried to weigh his options.
The free hand of his opponent raised up in front of them, opening long enough for the nindroid to recognize the tracking device in the middle of his palm before it got crushed to pieces and left to fall down to the street below.
Cole's chest rumbled against his back as the raven chuckles. “What? You thought a little kiss was enough to get my
whole
guard down? That's cute. Expected from someone such as yourself, even, being apart from the virgin squad.”
Nails dug at pale skin as Zane gritted his teeth, the feeling of pressure at his throat starting to get annoying. “Unlike yourself I don't find myself in
dire need
for such activities.”
“Oh, but you did seem
quite needy
a few days ago. You were practically melting at the spot.” Cole's purring in his ear wasn't helping him at all at keeping his composure, not to mention think straight.
As much as Zane liked to think he was a calm and collected individual, which he
was
most of the time, right now was the biggest humbling of the century. Here he was, at the edge of a fucking rooftop, in a chokehold by the evil version of one of his best friends, who could easily flex his muscle and
literally
break his neck, and
all Zane could think
about was the way this man's chest was pressed against his back.
Worse of all? This was in the middle of Ninjago's downtown region. A passer by could literally look up from across the street and see one of the city's biggest heros fighting for his dignity. Fuck's sake how did he
get
here,
why
did he get here?!
He hated how torn apart he was from the whole situation. More so, he hated that he
was torn
.
On one end he had the
logical
route, which involves fighting the evil ninja and possibly finding a way to get the information on the location of their hideout out of him or, even better, how they got back.
And
then
he had the ‘i must have a fucking deathwish’ route, which was, essentially, to repeat the same mistake Zane did a week ago, but this time for personal gain.
… Did Jay give him a computer virus last time they had a repair session as a way to get back at him? This seemed like a logical explanation for how
stupid
the master of ice was at the moment! He must at
least
have a few gears out of place for his mind to-
A large hand found its way on his stomach, pressing him firmer against the body behind him. “What? No snappy comebacks?”
Why? Why him? What did Zane do? Genuinely,
what
?!
His hand, as much as half his system begged him not to, shot down, gripping at Cole's wrist so hard he would probably be leaving a bruise, stopping it from going further. “You're not worth the waste of oxygen.” The worst spat through teeth seemed to only entertain the raven further.
“Good thing you don’t need any then.” Cole's voice seemed to only grow more and more husky the further their interaction went, a slow, oh so warm kiss being placed right behind Zane's ear. It took all his will power to not give out another one of the noises that had been ripped out of him in the parking lot.
“You know,” the Bizarro spoke once more as the white ninja tightened his grip on the wrist in his hand, “my Zane can very easily detect when some…
emotions
pop up here and there… You know, since he's the
total opposite
of you.”
It wasn't news to the blond, what Cole was saying. His evil clone was never one to find comfort in the more humain particles of his being, preferring to think of himself as fully machine. Immortal, immune to humanity's emotions and weaknesses. Even in his quite obvious relationship with the dark master of fire, which somehow didn't bother Zane as much as what happened with their Cole had, he was never one to openly show affection the way Bizarro Kai would.
“So imagine my surprise, when he started talking about those little dreams you've been having.”
Zane swallowed at the words, which was obviously felt against Cole's hand, hence the guy chuckled in his ear. Has Cole's voice always been this attractive? It was so weird registering that information now. And what was this guy's obsession with choking him? Really, at this point Zane would need protective gear for his throat rather than anywhere else.
“Ever heard of nightmares? Night terrors?” He spat back, which didn't phase the man holding him at all.
“Sounds like you quite enjoyed your little diversion plan… I mean…” Cole's voice dropped to a lower tone as the nindroid felt his breath against the side of his face, their bodies fully pressed against each other to the point there might not have been any air left between them. “You still haven't broken free. I'm barely holding you.”
With that being said, it was just now registered in Zane's system that he… was, indeed, correct. The grip around his neck was barely felt anymore, the raven's arm practically just being wrapped around him, resting at his shoulder, the only thing keeping them close being:
1, Zane had nowhere to go, being at the edge of the building. Thought he
could
slide to the side. Or create an ice slide. Or just jump to the street below, now that he looked at it it wasn't that high…
Okay, yeah, he had no excuse for that one-
And 2, the hold he still had on Cole's hand, which wasn't even touching him anymore and it felt cold against Zane's touch. Either he had cut Cole's circulation with how hard he was gripping at him, or his powers had acted up.
His lack of response, or move for action, seemed to satisfy the dark ninja, as the arm around his neck moved to grab at the nindroid's face, turning his attention so their gazes met. Red eyes scanned his features, slowly drinking in every detail etched on Zane's face. A rush of adrenalin was sent through his receptors, the grip on the raven's wrist faltering for just a second. It only made the grin on black ninja's clone widen.
“In fact, I think you won't do anything if I do this too.” And with that, all of Zane's progress on forgetting his biggest mistake was out the window, into the trash, and then lit on fire. With a rocket launched at it. And then ran over by a tank.
The moment his mask was pulled down and Cole's lips crashed against his own he had two choices. Prove him wrong and use the situation to break free and
finally
get his shit together. Or cave in and prove him right.
Of course, he was going to go with the rational route and keep his ground, he has entertainment this situation for far longer than he should have, not to mention he had totally abandoned his patrolling duty-
Sharp teeth nibble at his bottom lip, the hand on his stomach returning as Zane's grip had faltered totally at this rate.
When did he grow
so weak
?
His brain seemed to short circuit as he let himself be turned around, now giving Cole full access to smash their lips together just like before, the familiar rush shivering down Zane's spine. Synthetic skin covered fingers gripped at the master of earth's shirt as strong hands pressed White closer than what it seemed humanly possible. The city seemed to have grown even more quiet as even the wind seemed
utterly shaken
by what it was witnessing.
And once again, Zane felt that uneasy feeling eating at him from the inside like rust. This was not something he should be doing! Not only was he more than fraternizing with the enemy, he was letting his guard down and potentially playing into Cole's game. What if this was a type of diversion so he doesn't see or realize the others of his kind were executing a crime right now? He should put an end to this mess once and for all before it got fully out of control!
But then again
why
did kissing this Cole felt
so
right
?
Like a puzzle piece was finally at place, like he found the last star connecting the constellation he's been researching for all his life. Especially when his hands were firm and warm against his back, pulling him closer and closer, sliding further down his spine-
A buzz from his wristband was what broke him out of his trance like state, roughly pushing Cole off him as he looked at his wrist, out of breath despite the lack of need for it. Said ninja only groaned in annoyance, his hair now a mess from where Zane's hands had previously been, a few strands left partially frozen, his lips kiss swollen from the rough makeout.
The white ninja, now panicking seeing as Kai was calling him given it was about time for the shift change, shushed him harshly before answering.
“Yo, Z, where are you? Your shift ended like 20 minutes ago.”
“Hello, Kai, I uh-,” swallowing, Zane decided to ignore the way his voice cracked, trying to think of something.
“ Fucks sa-”
“What was that?” Kai called out, clearly having not understood what was said.
“Nothing! I'm heading back right now!” A death-like glare was sent Cole's way, Zane's hand now covering his mouth, as he got the same but more tired stare in return.
“Do you want me to come to your location or-”
“No, no need I'm coming to you, bye!” With that, Zane was quick to end the call, and was sure to get questioned at
least
once by the master of fire for his weird behavior.
Still, that was for later. Now he had to deal with this.
His hand was finally slapped off Cole's face, which only frustrated the master of ice more, slapping the raven on the shoulder.
“Are you nuts?! If Kai had heard you-”
“But he didn't.” Cole argued back, the look or boredom biting at Zane's last nerve.
“If he
had
i swear to all Gods in
any
mythology and religion there is i would-”
He was quickly shut down, and quite effectively, as Cole's hand gripped the back of his hair and he leaned down, only to initiate another few seconds of the rough kiss from earlier. It worked, given Zane's knees felt like giving in the moment he felt the split tongue of the raven lick at his lip. Though this time his annoyance got the better of him.
Thankfully, otherwise he had no clue
how
he would've gotten out of the situation.
Gripping the leather jacket, Zane was quick to push the Bizarro off him, their kiss ending in a small smack as the raven groaned once more.
“What
now
?”
“I have to go back, and
you
better
not
be in my sight again!”
Pulling himself out of the grip of the taller man, Zane looked up his location tracker on his wristband after putting some distance between himself and the raven, looking up Kai's status. Okay, he was in the upper west of the City. He must've just started his patrol.
“What? You going home as quick as possible cuz you're out past curfew?” Cole's voice was mocking as he walked back to Zane with the way his voice grew closer with every word spoken. A strong hand wrapped around titanium waist as the blond got pulled back closer to the double.
Before Cole could speak another word, Zane freed himself, turning to face the master of earth, staring daggers into him. “
No
!
No more of that! I know what games you play and I will
not
fall for them.” He was close to scolding the bizarro on his grammar as well but decided against it at the last minute. He wouldn't have listened anyway
“Ya sure?” Cole cocked his head to the side, that stupid smirk plastered on his lips once more.
“
Yes
. This cannot and
will
not
happen again. Now scram before I change my mind and call backup.”
Sending the bizarro one last glare, Zane pulled his mask back on and jumped to the next roof over.
----- CHAPTER BREAK -----
“You can't actually be serious about this.” An irritated sigh was the answer to Jay's question, the half serpentine ninja resting his arms over the backrest of the couch in the living room, red eyes following his teammate. “It's obviously not going to work. The guy may be an idiot but he's not a complete moron.” “Worth the shot isn't it?” Cole at last slammed the door to the mini fridge, his drink now in hand. “He might be the most intelligent of their bunch but that doesn't mean he doesn't have weak spots.” “And you decided playing hookup was the best way to find them?” Kai at last voiced, sitting criss crossed on the floor, a hair trimmer still buzzing in his hand. The guy's been having a blast utterly shocking his good counterpart with his poor fashion choices and in conclusion ruining his image. Which, as of now, led to him half way into shaving both sides of his head to go with the full mullet look, a half done flame outline buzzed into the left side of his head. Cole's eye twitched. “What? You think playing buddies is more believable?” Kai shrugged, turning back to the mirror propped on a small stack of his boyfriend's books which he, obviously, didn't ask if he could borrow. “Suit yourself man. But next time you get your ass iced to the floor of some random building I'm not melting it for you.” With a roll of his eyes, the raven walked around the couch, sitting down on the table. “Like you did the first time?” The sarcasm dripped into his tone as Kai didn't pay him any mind. Zane was in his office, probably plotting another random idea for an attack on the ninja as always, while the three of them were left to each their own. “It's a good idea and you can't deny it.” Cole spoke again, using his hand to effortlessly open and remove the metal cap off his beer. “I get him to let his guard down, get a bit bold, maybe sneak me in that dump they call a monastery. I steal some shit, get some info on the idiots and get out. What better way to get him vulnerable enough to give me an answer to everything i ask than fuck his brains out?” “Torture him?” Jay's eyebrow cocked, staring obviously unimpressed at his teammate. The guy was never one to be super stoked about anything other than his stupid scams online or zapping people. Though he did like scaring kids with the whole unlocking jaw thing he had going on due to the serpentine part of himself. Weirdly enough, the original Jay had been almost turned to a snake that one time, and when they had returned from the realm of which they were banished to after their first fight with Ninjago's saviors he had returned part serpentine. Which was a shock at first but the lightning master was quick to get used to. Though it was annoying as fuck to find his random skin sheddings all over the place. “Right.” Kai scoffed, looking into the mirror as he did his best to fix some of the flame drawing on the other side and even out the layers. Even if he was doing this out of spite for the red ninja, he still wanted to look good. “As if the guy would speak then. Cole pulled a few wires out of place and the guy was all over him, imagen what the fucker will do if you torture him.” Cole rolled his eyes. “At least I have a plan that may work. How many of Zane's fuckass ideas have done anything other than gotten us to a draw?” “One more word and I'm wearing your teeth as a necklace.” The threat was spat through his own teeth as the master of fire glared at the raven. It was no secret that he and Zane had become a thing soon after they've returned to this world, though at first glance it seemed like Kai was asking for a beating while doing a terrible job at flirting with the dark ice elemental. In all honesty, neither Cole nor Jay had a damn clue on how they got together. All they knew was that one morning they woke up and Kai was all up in Zane's business, calling him clichey nicknames and the bunch with all sorts of marks on his neck. And of course claiming that ‘this piece of titanium ass was no longer for taking’. Cole did enjoy the slap Zane gave him after. Since then nothing much had changed other than Blue and Black having to wear earplugs most nights, and throughout the day so they don't hear Kai's cringy ass talk to his boyfriend. It was weird at one point since Zane was never one to be affectionate… Or emotional at any level for that matter. Him and Jay had a whole bet whether or not Zane was just using him for the sex, but then again he did seem to have the smallest of a soft spot for the master of fire, even if he'd never actually show it. Safe to say, none of them got their money. Jay finally groaned, sitting up from the couch, making his down the hallway with his hands in the pocket of his hoodie as he spoke over his shoulder. “Do whatever you want man, fuck him, kill him, same difference.” “As long as you do it in that order, preferably.” Kai murmured, looking at himself in the mirror before him, brown and red dyed pieces of hair adorning the carpet which he'd obviously not bother cleaning. After giving a harsh slap on the back of Kai's neck, and dodging a blast of fire sent his way, Cole himself made his way to his room. He knew this whole ‘charm the nindroid’ thing would be a way longer task than he wanted it to be, but in his mind it was a good plan. Not to mention he did quite enjoy the action between them so far. Who knew the whole ‘i wanna kill you’ tension could be such a big turn on? Once in his room, the master of earth let himself drop on his bean bag, taking a swing of his beer. As the bitter liquid slid down his throat he stared at the ceiling, thinking over how he'd approach the situation. After the last time he encountered the white ninja, the blond had insisted they never meet under such circumstances again, though Cole was quick to see right through his bullshit. The guy was like wet clay in the palm of his hands, basically pleading with the bizarro to be handled however the raven liked. It was quite pathetic but then again he wasn't one to care. All he wanted was information and, in the best and most possible scenario, a nice lay. But this would be harder said than done. After all, the guy was not a dumbass, believe it or not. Maybe if one of the other ninja were to do such a move it wouldn't take as long to proceed with the plan but Zane was smart, believe it or not. Not to mention the guy had clearly never received such attention before so he was bound to be on high alert around Cole. He'd be cautious and wouldn't go the whole nine yards after 2 make outs. Along with the whole ‘you're evil I'm good’ dynamic. Fucking bummer. With a sigh, the bizarro pushed his hand in the pocket of his sweats, taking out his phone. Opening the search engine he searched up for any downright sickening clichey stuff to do when trying to impress someone. Literally. He typed in ‘corny romantic shit to do’. He was never one to be a romantic. It was just not in his blood. He was made out of pure evil after all, all he knew was sin. So hopefully he was big enough of an actor to pull such an act off.
Okay, what do we have here? Flowers, ew … Candy, as if … Ask them out, yeah no shit! Fuck's sake, even the internet was a banality.
Scrolling through a few more sites, he at last gave up, throwing his phone on the ground beside him, his beer half finished by now. He was bound to have a migraine if he saw one more “how to ask out your crush in 5 easy steps!” article. Relaxing fully into the soft seat, which he totally didn't steal from a random furniture store, Cole stared at the ceiling, lids halfway down as he tried to use the last of his mental strength to figure out how to approach him next time. Even with his mind threatening to commit suicide by just thinking of doing such a thing. Now thinking about it, he really started to question himself why in the fuck he decided to go through with this plan. It would've been fine had he just left it at the scene at the mall, but noooo , he just had to go pull that stupid stunt a few nights ago. Now Zane would be ready for him to continue pursuing him, given he had made his stubbornness quite obvious to the ninja. But then again, the blond did seem foolish enough to fall for such a thing, with how willingly he caved in after a little bit of a fight. Not to mention this whole thing started because he kissed him first back at the mall. “Okay…” Cole hushed under his breath,talking to himself, as he put down the bottle after taking another sip of his beer. “What would this sappy fuck like…” “Anything opposite of what I do?” The sarcastic question broke Cole out of his trail of thought, snapping his attention to the doorway of his room. “Ever thought of that?” “Is there anything you like?” Cole returned the cold tone as he watched Zane take a few steps into his room, now standing before him, the crimson light from his eyes illuminating his sharp metal features. The nindroid stood unphased by Cole’s question whatsoever, the same bored and empty expression still on his face. “That's a stupid plan.” “It could work.” “I didn't say it won't. But you're stupid if you think you'd be able to pull it off.” “Help me out then, instead of being a pain in the ass. You always make it a big deal of being a know-it-all.” Cole murmured, downing the last of his alcoholic beverage before throwing the bottle in the trash. He missed, the bottle rolling on the carpet for a few seconds before Zane lifted his foot and essentially stopping it. “Maybe I will but then again I don't really like you as a whole so I might just let you get your head frozen again.” The ninja stood quiet after the nindroid's comment, glaring at each other as they usually would. There's always been a big difference between the two, as opposed to their good counterparts. While the good Cole and Zane were quite close, from what the bizarros gathered them being the first students Wu took in, their doppelgangers were the total contrast. The nindroid was always one to think himself the leader of their team, being a smartass and always taking things seriously. Not to mention his superiority complex due to being a machine, while Cole was as stubborn as a bolder, not taking no as an answer and with his leadership skills was convinced he should be the one ordering the others around. This had led to more than one fight between the dark elemental masters. “Fine then. What do you suggest?” Cole gave in, deciding to not waste more time on thinking about what was stopping him from ripping this Zane's limbs out. He'd have plenty of time for this after. “Spy on him. You know where the temple is and where they dock their stupid ship.” Zane crossed his arms, the fabric of his tuxedo pulling at his shoulders due to his design. None of the others knew why the master of ice preferred wearing suits when out of uniform, given how uncomfortable it is, but they honestly couldn't care less. “Figure out what the fucker likes and use it against him. Or just ditch this whole shitshow while you're at the temple and break into their old man's storage room.” A bit of consideration was what stopped Cole from rolling his eyes. In a perspective this could work, and would also save him the trouble of having to deal with the nindroid for a few months, but then again it would be harder to find a cover if he had been seen. “Zane's the intelligence of their bunch. If I get him to let his guard down I could pry more information about them out of him.” The nindroid hummed at the response. “Fine then, if that's what you wish.” Zane's voice was as calm and collected as his good counterpart's usually was, though the sharp edge in his tone was quite obvious as he turned on his heels to walk out the room. “As long as you don't get us killed or sent back to that hell hole they sent us to the first time.” With that, the master of earth was left alone once more, staring at the doorway which Zane just disappeared into. He fought off the shivers from going down his spine at the thought of going back to the Dark Realm.
Gods, this was going to be the death of him. He already found spying boring as it is, but this was downright sickening. The bizarro had spent a good chunk of the last 3 hours on the rooftop of the Destiny's Bounty, listening into the conversations the ninja had. So far he had learned that Kai was spanish with the amount of cursing he did, and that this Jay hated doing his laundry just as much as the evil one. Though it was fun to overhear the good nindroid scolding the fire ninja in spanish as well. Almost got a smile out of him. Laying on the wooden roof of the upper deck, the raven's patience was running thin as he stared at the now dark sky above him. If he knew he'd have to listen to his good self and this Jay flirt with each other while being oblivious to it the whole time they were having dinner he would've brought some weed along to save himself the headache of listening to this sober. After hearing some rustling from under the wooden planks of the roof, Cole turned his attention back to listening in. A few ‘good nights’ were exchanged, making him check his phone. It was already 1am? Huh, who knew time flies when you want to rip your ears out? Sitting up after the room under him became silent, he was quick and quiet on his feet. Checking the deck, and seeing and hearing no one, he stepped down from the rooftop, peeking into the window to see inside the living room. Seeing Kai's good counterpart with his back to him doing the dishes, the master of earth went for the side path of the deck and after getting to the end of it, put his spiked brass knuckles on his hands, flexing his fingers to secure a good grip. A few minutes later, he was hanging off the side of the ship near one of the bedroom windows, looking inside the one to his left to try and guess whose it was. The big pile of clothes in the corner gave it away as Jay's, so he turned his attention to the other window. After seeing how neat it was, to the point that the floorboards were practically blinding him with the reflection of the moonlight behind him, he knew he was at the right place. Using as much stealth as he was capable of to open the window, Cole stepped inside the room. Closing his entrance way, the bizarro was quick to look around the room. The bed was made, a desk beside it and right opposite of where Cole stood was a big bookshelf filled with different kinds of literature. He wondered why Zane would need physical copies when he could connect to the internet but then again he didn't really give a shit as to what the reason behind it was. Seeing as the white ninja was nowhere in sight, the raven decided to look around and kill some time. Maybe find something useful. Stepping closer to the desk by the corner of the room, he took one of the journals laying on top, his fingers listing through it. Despite the lack of nice lighting, he was quick to figure out it was some form of a blueprint diary, along with what seemed to be repair entries. Oh, and there were the folded blueprints of that weird bird the guy had. A scoff left Cole's lips as he got a flashback of the falcon attacking his Jay during a fight once. The team mocked the guy that he needed to go into hiding in case the bird was in the mood for a cold blooded snack again for the next 2 months. Dropping the journal back on the desk carelessly after finding nothing interesting, his hands found themselves back into the ninja's pockets as he strolled to the bookshelf. He was never one to enjoy reading, he found it as a waste of time. Why read about romance or horror when you can either sleep with or kill someone yourself? Not to mention with the things he's heard about the new releasing, and quickly selling books he was just in shock at how many psychopaths there actually were in the world. Listing through a random encyclopedia, which, again, why did the guy have, he was a whole computer , Cole's ears picked up on the door to his left sliding open along with a startled gasp. “Cole, you scared me.” Zane's voice was hushed as he walked inside the room, the door slid shut behind him. From the lack of alert, the raven guessed it was the dim lighting, and the fact that he was wearing his gi, that didn't give away who he actually was, the nindroid thinking it was his own teammate. “My bad.” He responded, opening the next page as he pretended to take interest in the oh so compelling information about the Barred Owls. “Is something the matter? I thought you went to bed.” Zane's footsteps were muffled by the carpet as he walked further in the room. A small peak from over his shoulder told Cole everything as he saw the nindroid undoing the belt of his gi and shrugging the robe off. Now only left with his chest covered in the bandages they'd wrap around themselves for extra protection, the uniform was neatly folded and placed on the blond's bed. The book was closed and returned to its place. “Nah, couldn't sleep, y'know.” “Having nightmares again?” Zane guessed as at last the wraps were taken off, giving Cole a nice view of the blond's exposed back. In contrast to the evil master of ice, this guy liked having his synthetic skin covering most of his body, the raven assumed. His own teammate despised the camouflage with all his being, and even more the idea of appearing human since it made him look weak in the nindroids opinion. Crimson eyes scanned the line Zane's spine created down the middle of his back, the moonlight from the window making the skin look even more pale. “You could say that.” Zane hummed as he pushed his arms into the sleeves of his sleep shirt, starting to button it up. Silence followed as the Bizarro could only watch, gaze calm as he read the master of ice and his body language. He seemed relaxed, totally unaware of the enemy which he had his back towards. “I can always make you some chamomile tea if you'd like.” Cole clicked his tongue. “Nah, it's fine. I think i just need to…” His voice lowered as he walked a few steps closer. Leaning his head to the side, his lips close to the blond's ear, a smirk tugged at the raven's mouth. “burn some energy.” This seemed to have caught the blonds attention as his posture went stiff. Just as he turned his head to face the ninja behind him, a large hand covered his mouth, red meeting blue at last. “Shhh, I'm just here to talk.” This didn't seem to comfort White, his eyes blown wide open and staring in disbelief at the bizarro standing just inches from him. Slapping his hand off himself, Zane took a few steps back to put enough distance between them so it won't mess with his head. “What are you doing here?! How did you get here?!” Cole rolled his eyes. “Straight to the boring stuff.” He murmured, turning on his heels as he walked around Zane's room, totally unbothered in contrast to the master of ice. “Came to say hi, is that such a bad thing?” “From you it might as well be a death sentence.” Zane's voice was careful, full of spite. It had a nice ring to it in Cole's opinion. “Quite the book collection you have here. Why bother with books when you can download it or some shit?” Zane stayed quiet, clearly indicating he is not going to calmly converse with the bizarro ninja, nor give him an answer. Not surprising, really. Taking a quick scan of the bookshelf, Cole thought of his next steps before he turned to face the nindroid. Hands still in his pockets, the raven shrugged. “What? The one time I try to be civil you're being quiet?” “Why would you be civil?” “I can be quite polite when I want to.” Zane scoffed. “Right.” Small fog started coming out from his fingertips as he walked closer. “Look, i have no idea what you may be plotting, but you are not staying here a second longer.” “You wound me, Snowflake. I thought we had something.” Cole cooed, a smirk tugging at his lip as his eyes stood half lid, meeting the gaze of the nindroid before him. Even with their height being just an inch or two off, the raven still needed to have his eyes just a little bit lowered down to keep the eye contact. He could see he was starting to get under the ninja's skin by the flush of dusty blue covering his cheekbones. “ Negative . I will not be seen or heard associating with you any longer, nor will I let you waltz into me and my team's home without consequences!” “Oh c'mon.” Taking a step closer, Cole's smirk turned a tad bit softer but remained its edge, his face inches from the nindroid's. Using his knuckles to support Zane's chin, he tilted his head further up. “Don't try and deny the fact that you like being involved with me. It's useless, especially when I saw how you react to me first hand.” His voice, now a hushed tone, seemed to have caught the master of ice in a bit of a corner judging by the way his eyebrows knit closer together, eyes showing hesitance. It was quite the cute expression, seeing him fight himself , earning a small chuckle from Cole's chest. “Why are you so against the idea? Your team doesn't need to know, mine doesn't either, nor will they care.” Cole lowered his tone further, the gap between them now just a breath away from vanishing. “You can't convince me you don't enjoy the thrill of doing something you shouldn't.” A cold hand gripped at Cole's gi, the hold hesitant as blue eyes were skipping between his own gaze and his lips. Zane was close to giving in and it was obvious. As much as he liked to think he had his shit together and could resist the pull Cole had on him, it couldn't be further from the truth. Especially with him staring at the raven like a deer in headlights. Taking the silence as a sign he was able to proceed further without getting knocked out again, not that it would be of any help to the master of ice to have him unconscious in his room, Cole's free hand rested on his waist as he closed the gap between them. The action itself was slow, more careful than usual. He needed to convince the nindroid he had no intention of being a threat after all. His hold on the blond was warm as opposed to the chill against Cole's lips, which he was growing quite fond of as much as he hated to admit. It did seem to catch Zane off guard at first, but soon enough, as always, the ninja was quick to return the kiss. It wasn't anything Cole didn't expect, but this time it seemed to happen quicker than usual. Maybe he should take the slow approach more often. His hand ever so slightly tightened its grip on slim waist, pulling the blond in. Hesitance still buzzed inside Zane, but nonetheless he was letting himself drown in the adrenalin rush of kissing this Cole for the third time. He was slowly losing his self control when it came to the bizarro which should be, and is, terrible news but his system couldn't help it any longer. He was like a magnet and the master of ice was slowly becoming helpless to its pull, unable to resist the forbidden fruit. A few seconds of the sweet back and forth, Cole pulled back just enough for their lips to disconnect. Opening his eyes to meet Zane's gaze, which seemed so out of this world that it was almost comical, he kept their proximity. Large hand now cradling the ninja's cheek, the raven took in the sight before him, their breaths mingling together in the quiet of the room. The only noise in the space around them was the quiet breeze wheezing between the small cracks of the wooden walls of the ship, along with the internal fans of the nindroid working harder to cool his system down. Cole needed to choose his next words carefully, this was going smoothly so far, he couldn't risk ruining it. “When's your next patrol?” The nindroids didn't take action into answering, still a bit in a haze from the sudden change of atmosphere between him and the evil earth elemental. Cole continuing to have this hushed, enchanting tone to his voice wasn't of any help to break him out of it. He swallowed. “Tuesday…” Cole's lip tugged upwards at the murmured answer, the way the blond's voice matched his own tone being a good sign. If he was already able to get him to let down his defense to stare up at him with those doll eyes, Cole'd be able to get anything he wished out of that pretty head of his in no time. “See ya Tuesday then.” With that, Cole leaned in once more, pressing a chase peck to titanium lips before pulling away again, for good measure. Even better sign was the way Zane unintentionally chased after him as the kiss broke. He was already getting tangled into Cole's webs all by himself. By the time the master of ice had registered how deep in this whole mess he had gotten himself into, and what had just played out, Cole was long gone, the window of Zane's room left wide open.
----- CHAPTER BREAK -----
This was not good. This was not good at
all!
Pacing back and forth in his bedroom, Zane's head a mess, the ninja could only try and come up with any form of an excuse he could to
not
go to his scheduled patrol tomorrow night.
He still hadn't even figured out how long Cole might've been around before he broke in his room last week! Hours maybe? Who knows what he might've overheard or found! Even with the intensive search he did all over his room and checked every crevice and corner of the Bounty he found nothing missing, his gut was staying in a twist.
How did he let himself get here?! And
why in the name of everything on earth was he torn?!
The answer was obvious! Tell the team, get them to surround the perimeter and wait for the dark ninja to appear until they get the chance to ambush him! Easy as that!
…But
why
did he not
want
to do that?!
It didn't make any logical sense! He was supposed to be the most logical one out of the team, along with Nya! He couldn’t believe he got himself into such a mess all because of a stupid kiss! At this rate he didn't know if he preferred being here right now, or back at the mall, getting dismembered by the same person who he had unintentionally started a secret affair with!
Furthermore, there was no one he could turn to for advice! Heck,
he
was the one to usually give advice! And he knew what to do! Yet, for
some reason
, he couldn't get himself to act on it!
his feet picked up the pace, hands stimming as he flexed his fingers over and over, frost forming at his fingertips.
Sure, from a…a
certain
point of view, he could understand
why
he didn't want to proceed with the plan on ambushing this Cole. He was getting this
weird
but strangely
nice
attention from him, not to mention the way the motor functions of his legs went impractical the moment he'd hear his voice, or that godsforsaken nickname, or when he'd be pulled into a kiss which should've never happened yet he couldn't bring himself the willpower to break free from!
But what did he have to
gain
from all this?! Get himself killed probably, he had thought about this outcome more than once. This was Bizarro Cole after all! The guy who just 2 weeks ago was ripping Zane's inner workings apart just for the fun of it! He couldn't get involved to such a vulnerable state with him, this was insane!
As much as he'd kill, not actually of course, to have this whole accident never happen, he just as much couldn't get himself to deny Cole's words, still echoing in his ears.
‘You can't convince me you don't enjoy the thrill of doing something you shouldn't.’
Oh stars, he was in so much shi-
“Zane?”
The mention of his name and the knock on his door got the nindroid out of his small state of panic, turning around to see none other than the young green ninja peeking his head through the doorway.
Zane's shoulders relaxed as he did his best to put away the unease in his chest for a later time. “Hello, Lloyd. Did you need help with something?” His voice was quiet, a soft smile tugging at his lips as to not worry the kid at his door.
“Kai's training and I can't understand a question on my history homework. It's written weird.” Lloyd fidgeted with his fingers as he asked for help, the muffled sounds of the rest of Zane's teammates training out in the deck registering soon after.
A gentle sigh left the blond as he walked over, patting the kid on the head. “Alright, let's see that homework.”
As much as he knew he should, and wanted, to figure out a way to fix all the problems that hung over his head right now, he knew he had other priorities as well. Like helping their sensei's nephew with his homework.
Sitting on his knees by the living room table, Lloyd on the bean bag he had asked Jay to pull closer, Zane watched the kid shuffle through his papers. Some were homework, others drawings the younger ninja would doodle when he was overwhelmed or just bored by the problems Nya had printed out for him.
Once the question was located, the master of ice leaned closer to look over the issue Lloyd was pointing at.
“This is about the 7 Realms. Did Kai go over that subject with you?” Lloyd huffed in a childish manner, clearly frustrated at the question rather than the boy helping him out.
“Yes, we did, but how does this connect to the question about my grandfather?”
“Well, the two subjects are connected by the fact that your grandfather, the First Spinjitzu Master, was originally from the First Realm.” Zane began explaining, Lloyd's gaze turning back to his paper. “Due to unknown events however, he fled to our realm, or as some historians call it, the Ethereal Devine. That's when he created Ninjago as we know it.”
“So… the answer is The First Realm and Ninjago?” Zane gave a soft nod.
“That's correct.”
“But why did my grandfather leave the First Realm?”
The master of ice hummed, eyebrows furrowed at the question. “I am unsure. Maybe you can ask Sensai Wu on the matter after dinner.”
With that, the kid hummed, putting his homework down once more as he grabbed his usual green crayon and began writing down the answers in a messy cursive. Nya had been helping Lloyd out with his writing, and he had a big improvement, no longer having as many grammar mistakes.
Watching the kid write down his answer, Zane's mind buzzed quiet, eyes on the papers over the table. His mind went back to the matter on hand from minutes prior, some of his previous turmoil and worry rising up once more. He could hear his fans grow louder.
“Would you like some cookies for dessert today?” Lloyd's gaze snapped up from the sheet of paper at the sudden question. He could see something was troubling the white ninja but he knew he probably won't be told of the issue. So, all he did was give a nod and a small grin, the gap between his front teeth showing.
With that, 15 minutes later, Zane was in the kitchen, his pink apron on and mixing up some dough in one of the bowls. Eyebrows furrowed, he couldn't stop his hardware from bringing up the mental crossroad he was on.
On one hand he had the opportunity of capturing one of the enemies he and his team had been up against for the past 4 months, only to end every fight in an even effort with no avail. Then, he had this slowly growing, almost selfish side of him which told him to not tell a soul about the initiated from the Bizarro meeting they had tomorrow in the dead of night.
But what if this Cole had the same idea in mind? What if he was luring him into a trap to ambush
him
and take him captive. Knowing his friends they'd do anything to free him, he'd do the same for them without a second thought. But unlike them, their clones weren't as merciful. They were brutal, wicked and conniving. Who knew what might happen to him if he followed through.
For some reason though, this weird, foolish side of him believed that Cole would hold on his word and it would be just them, alone once more, their only witness being the sleepy suburbs of Ninjago City.
The sudden realization shook him down.
Just them two…
With no prying eyes…
Left to do whatever their minds could come up with-
The liquid going down his fingers snapped him out of it, face covered in the artificial mimic of blush as he looked down only to see he had tilted his hands to the point the opened egg he was holding had gone down to his sleeve.
Letting the egg fall into the bowl with the rest of the ingredients, Zane washed his hands carefully as he tried to find his focus. Baking always helped him calm his nerves and soothe his mind but for some reason he just couldn't get Cole out of his system.
This was the worst thing that could've happened to him.
After finally getting
some
control over his thoughts once again, the dough for the cookies was soon enough ready and baking in the oven, the countertop cleaned as Nya had appeared a few seconds prior.
“We can order food tonight. The guys mentioned they wanted some from that noodle place downtown, plus I figured you might want a break from doing all the domestic work around here.”
Turning to face Kai's sister, Zane smiled ever so slightly at the thoughtfulness, putting the towel he used to dry his hands with back on the oven's handle.“That's very kind of you Nya, but I assure you I have no issue with cooking for you again.”
“Yeah, I know, but I
also
know you're quite the people pleaser.” Nya smiled knowingly at the nindroid, her cheek stained with some motor oil from the workshop, the top half of her bob tied in a short ponytail. “Not to mention you seem stressed. A little bit of a break would be nice.”
A sigh left the girl as she dialed the number of the restaurant in the house phone. “That and with Kai and Cole's sudden coughing…”
Zane stopped in his tracks, turning back to the raven, his hands now covered in the cooking mittens, he felt the familiar feeling in his gut return. “What coughing?”
“They seem to be coming down with something. Kai had a fever today… I mean, he always does with his powers and all, but today it was higher than usual.”
Oh gods no.
If the two were getting sick then that means…
Heavy footsteps made their way towards the room, revealing Cole as the ninja leaned on the wall of the open kitchen. He seemed pale, not to mention exhausted. Zane tried not to think about how much more similar he looked to his evil doppelganger now with his skin being almost the same tone.
After rubbing his hand over his eyes, as if trying to keep himself awake, the master of earth rasped the
last words
Zane needed, nor wanted, to hear at the moment.
“Hey Z, I must've caught something. I'm really sorry for asking this but could you cover for me during patrol hours? Kai already asked Jay to take him.”
And here Zane was, once more, pacing in his room as his internal clock ticked down the seconds left before he needed to leave, only getting him more on edge. Hands gripping the white mask he was supposed to put over his head, the blond could only feel every nerve in his system grow more and more abused, as if he was experiencing a really bad crash out.
It's fine, this is
fine! Just dandy!
Not only was he supposed to cover for Cole until he got better, but now he had to meet with the
other Cole
, in less than probably 30 minutes. He hoped the dark elemental would've forgotten about the arrangement from last week, but he had made it blatantly obvious he was set on seeing this whole thing play out.
What if he figures out Zane would be out on the look out more often than before? I mean, he probably wouldn't if the nindroid did a good job at keeping his mouth shut, but he thought that way before he got kissed last week too! And now here he was, with his enemy knowing his whole routine for the night. It won't be hard for him to find Zane, especially if he decided to wait him out around the city docs.
Checking the clock on the wall, which was useless in perspective but it added a nice touch to his room, the information that he had less than 10 minutes to prepare himself mentally for the night that awaited him settled in. Deep breath in, and deep breath out.
He could do this, he was capable of keeping his composure and his defense up to a T. He was a well trained elemental master, along with a put together and intellectual individual, he could handle one night with the evil double of one of his best friends. No pressure, he's been against way bigger threats than this before.
Once he was able to clear the fog in his brain even a little, Zane pulled his mask up and over his head, fixing the small window uncovering his eyes. All he needed to do was keep his distance and not let himself get carried away by Cole's charm for long enough so he could pull his mask down. If he did, it was game over.
I mean, how hard could it be to keep a piece of cloth over your face?
Turns out it was
very
hard to keep a piece of cloth over your face. Especially when there was a quite attractive, and persistent guy around trying to take it off to kiss you properly.
It hasn't even been 15 minutes since Zane had started his surveillance when Bizarro Cole appeared out of seemingly thin air while the nindroid was overlooking the upper west part of the city.
As of right now, the two were atop the highest building in town, as per Zane's demand. The night was still early and they had been in close proximity to the Bounty so he didn't need a random passerby or, gods forbid, one of his teammates to see him jumping from building to building with one of Ninjago's most wanted criminals.
“You're weirder than usual.” Cole's voice echoed as he walked around the edge of the building, boredom written on his features, while the master of ice tried to keep his attention elsewhere. Which was the streets hundreds of meters below, his vision receptors zooming in to get a better view of the town.
“You can always leave.”
“And let you have all this action to yourself?” The sarcasm dripped from Cole's voice as his boots echoed against the concrete edge with every step he took, the metal adorning his face and ears capturing some of the light once in a while. “Do you guys seriously waste your time on this bullshit?”
A groan escaped Zanes lips as he at last decided to face the soul reason of his distress. Turning to look at the raven, the master of ice dropped down from the cement cube which surrounded the entrance from inside the building to the rooftop. “Why are you even here? I doubt you don't have something up your sleeve to just, what? Want to ‘hang out’ and not break the law?”
“I can always break into the building if you want me to.”
“That's
not
what I mean and you know it.” Zane gritted his teeth as he fought the urge to take a step closer when Cole himself stepped off the edge, the two now at almost eye level, only a few meters apart. “There's some alternative motive. The chances of you having a change of heart at random and deciding to pursue me as a romantic partner or whatever you want to call
this
are quite low. And unbelievable. There's nothing helping you earn my trust.”
The bizarro’s expression didn't change for a moment, the same calm, almost relaxed look over his features. It kind of looked like when his Cole would listen to a new plan the team had made or while eating his breakfast, still half asleep. The lack of physical differences between the two was making it hard for Zane to remember this wasn't the thoughtful teammate he grew used to knowing for the last 3 years.
The wind whipped around them, Cole's hair waving over his face making the shadows dance over his skin, only the crimson color of his irises standing out. The silence was both unnerving and… making Zane impatient. What was he thinking about?
Once some movement was made from the master of earth before him, his reflexes were quick to kick in, grabbing whatever was thrown at him while also ready to cover his face in case it was something dangerous.
But as he blinked his eyes open and nothing had happened, he glanced at Cole, then at his hand with which he had grabbed the object. Lowering his hands, he turned his hand over only to see a small, black key resting in his palm. His brows furrowed in confusion as he picked it up, examining it.
“Is that…”
“Vengestone.” Cole finished his sentence for him, pulling the zipper of his jacket down, revealing a small chain around his neck. Pushing his thumb under it and pulling at the jewelry, it rattled as he tugged at it a few times essentially turning it around to reveal a small lock like compartment keeping it in place.
Cole's expression stood the same, while Zane's system was trying to make sense of whatever the hell was happening. Looking back at the small key in his possession, he scanned it only to come to the conclusion that it was, in fact, vengestone, judging by the soft cracks of yellow essence traveling around it. But how did Cole get it and
why
was he wearing it?
“Two keys. One back at my place. The other one stays on you.” Zane's attention snapped back towards the evil elemental, whose expression didn't change whatsoever as his hand let go of the chain. “I think taking away my powers on my own will is a big bet, but then again I figured you won't trust me if I just
told you
I have nothing despicable in mind. Quite the predictable guy you are.”
The blond blinked.
Then blinked again.
Was… Was Cole out of his mind or was it Zane? The guy was
purposely,
by his
own choice,
wearing vengestone? And willingly gave
Zane
the only key he claimed to have as of the moment. All the nindroid could do was just stare in shock as the bizarro at last took a few slow steps closer, boots echoing over the concrete.
He didn't pull back as a warm hand reached up, pulling the bottom half of his mask down to expose his full face, save for some of his forehead. The wind whipped around them.
“Do whatever you want with that information. All I'm here for, believe it or not, is your company. No alternative motives.” Cole's voice was quiet as he let out a sigh at the end when pushing his hand back in the pocket of his jacket, the chain still on display around his throat and the same smirk adorning his lips.
What was happening? The master of ice still couldn't process the big information suddenly dropped upon him, not to mention the proximity. He took a step back and closed his eyes to focus on reading between the lines for any clues of a trap or a catch in this whole situation but he found nothing. He lifted his hand, shaking it before him.
“Wait, you mean to tell me you willingly put on a chain that enables your elemental powers…
Just
so you can prove you're trustworthy?” Cole stood quiet, glancing to the side in thought before shrugging nonchalantly.
“Pretty much.”
…Was this guy out of his mind?
Did he know how
vulnerable
he was making himself right now? Not only was he basically on enemy territory, given Zane and the others were the protectors of the city, but he was also
hundreds of feet above ground.
And he was
just
walking along the edge with such strong winds that all it took would be a harsher breeze and he could've been flying head first to the street below! Not to mention he was giving one of the
only 2 keys
able to get rid of the vengestone
to his enemy!
He-
He was… giving Zane one of the
only two keys which would allow him to use his elemental powers again…
A small surge of unknown emotion shot through Zane's wiring, his system not familiar with the sensation as he held onto the key. The object itself had some form of coverage that would keep its effect at bay, or at least the vengestone was too small to do anything significant. It was obvious given Zane had accidentally frosted the edges of the small item when the realization first hit him.
“And all I ask in return,” Cole spoke once more, “is for
you
to prove to
me
I'm not doing something I'll regret.”
His gaze lifted from his hand to meet Cole's gaze, who stood as still as a statue while the wind moved around them. He seemed relaxed, not at all bothered by the sudden power indifference between the two. And all he wanted from the master of ice was to prove
he
was trustworthy as well.
His hand closed around the small key once more. Still skeptical to Cole's motives but not on such a high alert as before.
“I… suppose that's a fair deal.”
The corners of Cole's lips tugged upwards once more. “Glad to hear we're on the same page about
something
.”
Turning on his heels, the bizarro made his way back to the edge of the building, looking over the city. So far the whole interaction was… weird. One would think all their interactions have been weird so far, but this seemed way out of pocket than usual. Pushing the key into his pocket, Zane walked closer, standing beside the raven.
The master of earth had his eyes on the blond as he spoke once more, red eyes turning to meet his. “You're staring.”
“Am not.” The way Zane's voice hitched caused the bizarro’s smirk to turn cocky.
“Yeah, you are. I know I'm attractive but you're supposed to be a ninja aren't ya? Not very secretive of you.”
“You're weird tonight is all.”
“Pot, meet kettle.”
Zane huffed, his annoyance with the raven returning once more. “It's just that usually you've kissed me by now.” He regretted his words the moment they left his mouth.
Cole cocked an eyebrow, eyes glinting with amusement. “You complaining?” Leaning down to close the proximity a bit, he watched as Zane's face turned bright blue.
“N-no!”
“Sounds like you are.”
“I am
not
!”
“I can always give you a kiss if you ask nicely, y'know?”
Zane's ears picked up on the sound of Cole's chuckling behind him as he walked back to the center of the roof, making a swift jump to get back atop the cemented entrance to the building.
Why did he even
say
that? It only gave Cole a point that Zane was now looking forward to, or at least expecting them to make out at this point! What in the actual hell was wrong with him, the guy was messing with his gears!
Silence fell over the rooftop soon after, the two deciding to not speak, of course after Cole mocked him for a few more minutes after that. As of now, the duo were sitting side by side on the cement block, looking over the city. Cole had his arms propped up behind him, supporting his weight, while Zane had his feet dangling off the edge. He tried not to think back on the small key in his pocket.
The atmosphere was strangely calm. It was like any other night out on patrol but then again not any other night involved one of the bizarros sitting quietly beside him and staring at the lit up city, action free. His sensors themselves read him like a book. There were no stiff muscles, no indications of foreign objects such as weapons on his person by the folds on his clothes and how freely he walked around earlier.
Zane himself had fallen a bit relaxed, not on such high alert as he had been prior. At one point he just dozed off, counting every lit up window in sections of fours. By now he had counted to around 8 sections, so roughly 32 windows. He didn't know why he always preferred to count in such sections, or count the same thing on repeat when he'd zone out but it kept him a bit more relaxed. A system kink or something of the sorts.
“Alright, this is boring.” Cole huffed as he slid off the edge of the cement block, boots hitting the cement below him. Zane snapped out of his daze to watch the bizarro walk towards the edge of the building in confusion.
“Where are you going?”
“
We
are going to do something fun.” Cole's voice was corrective as he turned around, now walking backwards to the edge. This itself put
Zane on edge,
as the realization that the stone around his neck would prevent any sort of interference from Cole's powers. So he won't be as durable as he believed he'd be.
“Wait, what are you-” Before he could even finish his sentence Cole had jumped. And just like that, it was like something inside the nindroid
snapped.
Jumping on the roof and skipping towards the edge, Zane was quick to use his powers, creating an ice spiral which led all the way down. As his feet landed on the ice he was quick to pick up speed, both looking around for Cole and at his feet to keep his balance in check so he didn't go flying off the ice.
Once he spotted the raven a few meters below him he angled his body to go faster, his system on high alert as he was running the scenarios in which Cole wouldn't end up as a pancake on the street below, and essentially killing off his good counterpart as well. All the while his internal wiring was going overboard to deal with the amount of adrenalin running in his system.
Once at the same level as the master of earth, Zane's legs bent at the knees, creating enough force to jump, essentially launching himself forward. His arms took hold of Black's larger body, pulling him closer as he used his powers once more to create a slide at the right angle so the two would probably end up with a bruise or two instead of a broken bone or a trip to Jay's workshop for yet another repair.
As his feet met the firm ground below, his fans whirling inside his chest and his breathing heavy, Cole in his arms, The nindroid turned to face the raven. “What the hell was
that?!
You could've died!”
Swinging his legs off Zane's grasp and letting his feet meet the road, the bizarro fixed the collar of his jacket, a small scoff leaving his throat. The same annoying smirk was plastered on his face while the blond was doing his best to keep himself in check and on his own feet with the distressing high he was still coming down from.
“But I didn't. And
now
I can trust you as well.”
Those words alone were able to somehow register themselves in Zane's ears in
such a way
that it made the ninja's whole vocabulary
disappear in thin air.
“You are
actually
insane…” Was all the master of ice could mutter, his eyes wide in shock as he watched the raven stroll down the street with not even a tremble at his step. Was he allergic to registering near death experiences or something?!
“Why, thank you! I like to think of myself as more of a maniac but this is close enough.” Once again, Cole turned to face the blond as he walked backwards down the middle of the street. Judging by Zane's clock it was around 3:48am so there was a low chance of any cars on the road.
A frustrated sigh escaped his lips as he strolled after the dark elemental. “This isn't funny! If i hadn't gotten to you in time-”
A finger was pressed to his lips, abruptly shutting him up. He glared at Cole's clone, daggers in his gaze.
“As much as I love it when you get angry, you should stop before I make out with you in the middle of the street… Y'know, like you say you
don't
want me to..”
His taunting was only angering Zane further, not to mention getting his wires all up in knots. He slapped the hand off his mouth.
“You can't
seriously
be joking after almost dropping to your death.”
“I was bored! It sounded fun to take a dive. Jeez, don't get your panties in a twist.” Red eyes were rolled at the nindroid as Cole's usual annoyed self was back, pushing his hand back into the pocket of his jacket. Turning his back to the nindroid he continued down the street, leaving white behind himself, at this point seething with how careless the master of earth was.
Sure this was
Bizarro
Cole, but even
he
must not be this- this
foolish
to put himself in danger intentionally just because he got bored! Not to mention he was
calmly
throwing jokes around like it was nothing
right after it!
But then again this
was
Bizarro Cole, so who knew what was going through this sick mind of his.
How Zane had actually gotten here might as well be yet another big question historians would ponder on, one even he himself couldn't couldn't answer as it was happening.
“Besides, who said I was kidding?”
Zane was slow to turn in the direction of the raven, staring at him through his fingers, having put his hand up to his face as if rubbing his fingers against his temple would help his brain function.
“I am
not
kissing you again. I’m wondering what I’m even
doing here right now!
” His answer, filled with full on frustration mind you, must’ve been found funny with the laugh he got in return, Cole now standing in one spot, looking over Zane with that… That slow,
hungry-like
look behind his eyes. It was unnerving to say the least, not to mention the blond was unsure whether it was a bad omen or not. Either way it sends shivers running down his back.
“You’re patrolling.” The answer was not helping him either with the gruff, honeyed voice the bizarro had grown to use around the master of ice.
“Not with you here. All you do is distract me.”
“I thought you were too level-headed to get distracted, Snowflake.”
Zane, foolishly, stood his ground, some small, small part of his consciousness convincing him that even with the slow, almost taunting pace with which the dark earth elemental used to come closer, he could fight its pull. The urge to put his guard down and not fight the impulse to stay instead of run anymore.
He knew he had thought wrong the moment the smell of tobacco and something sweet hit his nostrils. Cole was way too close for comfort now.
“If you want to leave, why aren’t you? All you do is stare up at me like a little owl.”
Yeah. Why
wasn’t
he leaving? He could always turn around and continue on with his surveillance, yet he just couldn’t bring himself to. It was like his feet were stuck to the concrete below, not allowing him the will to move.
All the while the ninja before him was enjoying the internal conflict the nindroid was exposed to. He needed to get himself in the right mindset! This was dangerous, not to mention careless. Hanging out with the one of the nemesis’ team, evil taking the form of a person held dear to his heart. Even if he did have all the control over Cole’s powers, Zane didn’t leave out the fact that he was still a good fighter and opponent. He had advantage in weight and height, even if barely, not to mention muscle.
He saw what happened the last time he underestimated him. It was how he got to this moment after all.
“I do not need your permission to leave or not.”
“Who said you did?”
“You act like I do.”
A snicker was Cole’s only reaction, along with the small squint of his eyes caused by the grin stretching his lips. Zane hated how he took a quick unintentional glance at them, having only made the raven’s grin wider.
His jacket shuffled as large hands left its pockets, rising to neck level. At first, Zane’s shoulders stiffened, instinctively lifting his hand in response. He was barely able to get away from one of Cole’s hands around his throat, he didn’t need two on his neck.
“Chill, Snowflake.” A small tug at his mask was what caught Zane’s attention, his arm frozen mid way up, the small frost forming at his fingertips slowing its pace. “I don’t bite.”
“I seriously doubt that.” This got another short lived laugh from the double.
“Well… I don’t bite
yet.
” A quick wink sent Zane’s way, causing the softest of blue to color his cheekbones. With that, his mask was pulled up and over his face, warm fingers adjusting it with surprising care to their touch. “But that’s for a later conversation. Continue on with your hero bullshit.”
A small pressure was felt against his mask, Cole having leaned down to press a quick peck against Zane’s, albeit covered, lips, the cloth only stopping the actual contact but not the feeling of it, nor the smell that was so uniquely Cole it got the nindroid’s wires in his stomach in a twist.
Did butterflies get trapped in his chest cavity again?
The gesture was quick to end, crimson meeting ice for one final moment before Cole’s boots echoed through the empty street, the ninja disappearing into the night’s veil.
Zane’s system needed a few seconds to register what went down, cold fingertips touching the fabric of his mask where Cole’s lips had been seconds prior. Or was it minutes? He was unsure.
What he was certain of though, was such meetings won’t be a rare event. At least not for a good while longer, judging by the weight of the vengestone key in his pocket.
----- CHAPTER BREAK -----
Shuffling and the sound of something falling was heard, as Kai finally entered Zane's bedroom. Now more puzzled than anything, he scanned his friend, who was oddly staying in the middle of the room. Like… Dead middle , standing like a soldier waiting to be put at ease. “Uh, you good?” Zane's whole body language looked…awkward, yet somehow relaxed. It never failed to surprise the master of fire how uncomfortable and yet right at home a nindroid can seem at times. “Yeah! Yeah, I'm- I'm good, you startled me is all.” “Oh… Uh, sorry? I mean, I did knock this time...” Hand still on the doorknob, the master of fire glanced at the door, given he'd usually just barge into the room. Soon enough Cole's voice called from down the hall, making the brunette groan in annoyance and roll his eyes. “Anyway, I came to ask if you know who's supposed to be on laundry duty this week. I think it's Cole but he insists it's me, even though I already did it last week already.” The nindroid blinked, a bit stumped by the simple question as he ran over his database. “If I remember correctly it's supposed to be Lloyd's turn, with Jay supposed to be helping him, actually. Cole was the week prior to you.” “Huh,” Kai glanced to the side. It's been a few months since their new updated choir system, given the team had decided to teach their youngest teammate to help around the house. It was still a bit hard to remember, not to mention they'd often help the boy out. Nonetheless, Kai shrugged, taking a small step back into the corridor. “Alright then, thanks Z. I'll leave ya to… whatever it is that you were doing.” Kai's awkward smile was returned by the nindroid, who was standing in a way so his frame blocked the desk, hands behind his back. Weird. But then again, Zane was always weird, so it didn't phase him that much. Once the door was closed and the footsteps of his teammate were out of earshot, the blond's smile dropped as he breathed a sigh of relief, turning to the window, “Close call.” Was the first thing Bizarro Cole said after the window was opened yet again, swinging his lower body inside so he was sitting on the frame. Of course, he barely looked phased, the same smirk on his face which had by now gotten a softer, more relaxed feeling to it. Zane sighed. “I told you it's not a good idea for you to keep popping up like this. He could've seen you.” Walking to the small table placed in the middle of his room, Zane kneeled down, putting the few peony flowers he had held behind his back in the vase placed at the center. "I also believe it was the same time as when I told you to stop stealing me flowers.” He earned a chuckle from the raven, who finally made his way fully inside the room, his boots heavy on the floorboards beneath. “Sorry, Snowflake, goin’ by the rules ain’ really my style.” He voiced no remorse whatsoever, more humor than anything. He easily rested a hand on the nindroid’s hip once Zane stood up again, giving him a look but smiling ever so slightly nonetheless. “You can still try. Or at least pick them from somewhere… And that somewhere better not be someone's garden.” Zane's added comment got him another one of those soft chuckles out of the bizarro, thumb rubbing circles on his waist over his clothes. "But where's the fun in that?" It's been around a month since the two's little secret had developed, 47 days to be exact but who's counting, and surprisingly, it was going far smoother than Zane initially thought. No pressure, no eerie vibes, he hasn't even caught Cole make fun of his teammates or call them insults… Well, most of the time that is. He looked genuinely satisfied with just hanging out with the ninja, even if it was mainly during Zane's patrol hours which were, roughly counted, every two weeks. Even if he would sometimes get annoyed that the master of ice had to actually survey the area instead of just sitting on a random roof and talking, which would lead to the two making out most of the time. Cold hand rested on Cole's chest as the conversation at hand returned to his head. “I'm serious. You can't keep coming here unannounced like this. Not only because of the fact you can be caught, but you don't have your powers as well.” “I thought that was a good thing? Less danger, more trust? ” Cole cocked his head to the side, the vengestone chain shimmering in the light ever so little. He was clearly not invested in the conversation. “Besides, I missed pulling at your wires.” The smirk returned, earning him a small scoff from the ice elemental. At first it was weird to hear him say it, especially after what happened at the parking lot, but after some explanation it became clear he liked to use 'creative wording' sometimes. “You can ‘annoy’ me all you want when I'm on patrol.” “That's literally weeks apart. You'll be surprised how boring it gets with those fucks.” Lifting his hand, Cole pushed a few hair strands of Zane's hair back in place. “It gets boring living with and being a criminal?” “Continue with the attitude and I'll get the idea you don't enjoy my company.” “Cole.” “You're not denying it.” A bit of silence followed, the tug on Cole's lips slightly faltering at the look Zane gave him. A sigh left his lips as he at last put his hands back in the pockets of his leather jacket. “ Fine . I won't swing by unannounced. But, do tell, um, how am I supposed to tell you I'm coming?” Oh… well uhm- Okay, the thing is, ever since the two had started to spend time together Zane's gotten a little… paranoid of his friends finding out about his connections to the bizarro. Thus, he made sure the two would just set up time and place on when to meet whenever it was his turn to survey the city. So they didn't have any other way to communicate between them. Glancing to the side, Zane's gears worked up a little before an idea came into mind. “My falcon.” Cole's brows furrowed. “Your metal bird?” “ Yes , my ‘ metal bird’ . I'll… work out some device so you can send me messages through him. No one from the team would think I have a way of communication through him, and only I fix him when he needs repairs.” And it was true. He was quite possessive of him, as Jay would call it. After all he was all that was left of his family in a way, and he liked birds quite a lot. At first he thought about working up a program for Cole to have a direct, wireless connection with Falcon's harddrive but then again, Zane quickly pushed it aside. As lovely as it was between the two, he still had to be careful around him, even if he felt bad for doubting him. And giving him direct control over his little companion, not to mention their Jay was just as much an inventor as his was, was not a good idea in the long run. After giving it some thought, the raven just gave a low chuckle, closing his eyes in amusement. “You and your pretty head coming up with such stuff just so we can hang? I'm flattered.” And there he was again, with that low voice which he knew gave Zane goosebumps, even with his skin being synthetic. Not to mention whenever his eyes would get this almost tired but still oh, so sweet, almost romantic look in them. The crimson color seemed to totally be drained from its dangerous gaze in those moments. However, all the white ninja did as a response to the teasing was roll his eyes. “Alright, alright, I'm going.” Speaking through another laugh, Cole's hand found its by now reserved place on Zane's cheek, leaning down to press a kiss to cold lips. One thing which he never seemed to get used to though, even after so much time having passed, was kissing Cole. The same tingle of thrill was shot through his wires whenever their lips met, the warmth against his cold felt like someone pulled the rug under Zane's feet every time. Letting himself drown in the feeling, the blond returned the kiss, his hand softly closing, gripping at the fabric of Cole's shirt as the two stood like this for a while. He especially liked how quiet it went whenever they kissed. It was like the world was muted and all Zane could register was the earthly scent coming off Cole's skin and the occasional small tug of his teeth at his bottom lip. It has happened more than once for the bizarro to accidentally puncture a small surface wound on his lips, given the fangs he had. What Zane would never admit to, however, is that it only made him feel more gooey at those times. A little giddy even. At long last, he used his hand to gently push Cole back once he felt like this was enough for now. Not to mention Cole's hand moving from his cheek to the back of his neck and his other one on his waist again, pulling him closer. “Cole…” The raven didn't seem to listen as he leaned close again, kissing the nindroid quiet. Who, in return, just chuckled against the kiss and pushed him back once more. “Cole, you have to go.” “Mmno, little more.” There was obvious humor in his voice, which didn't help Zane's giggling as a few more quick kisses were shared. Even without his super strength, Cole was still strong enough to pull him close, even with the little resistance the nindroid would put. Soon enough, one final push was given, making the bizarro let out an exaggerated sigh as he pulled back. “You're killing me here.” “I'll see you tomorrow.” “And now you just danced on my grave.” The small laugh from the nindroid brought a smile back on Cole's lips, as all he could do was stare at the blue color covering Zane's cheeks. “See ya tomorrow, Snowflake.” With the words whispered, one more quick peck was shared before Cole's boots moved to the window once more. The footsteps soon gone, Zane was left all alone in his room once more, the only evidence of Cole ever being here sitting in the pretty vase on the table besides the nindroid.
“You're quite happy today.” Nya's teasing was light hearted as she placed the rest of the dirty plates from lunch beside the sink, Zane already busy scrubbing one of the cups clean. “I am?” Nya chuckled at Zane's question, though the smile was still plastered on his face. “Yeah. As a matter of fact you have been for the last few weeks.” “I guess I'm just more cheerful. Not to mention there hasn't been much stuff going on lately.” Putting the cup on the side, Zane grabbed one of the plates, Kai's, given the amount of spicy sauce on it, as Nya lifted herself up to sit on the counter. “True… You think they're planning something?” She asked, more concerned this time. “Who?” “Those evil clones of yours.” The dish almost slipped from his hand. He hoped Nya blamed this on the amount of soap on the plate and not on the little shot of nerves he got. More careful this time, Zane answered. “I'm unsure. For all we know they can attack the museum at any minute…” “Why the museum?” Zane shrugged. “They never go to the same place twice. Unless it's Bizarro Kai and he tries to make a bad image of your brother to the public.” Nya scoffed, eyebrows furrowed in amusement at the mention of the nickname Jay thought of. “You don't actually call them Bizarros, do you?” “Why not? It does explain their nature quite well.” This statement gave him something for his brain to bite on. So far into his little love story or whatever one would call it, Cole's been quite…tame. It was nice, of course, but other than a small felony here and there, which Zane would of course scold him for, he's not been that big of a ‘bad guy’, as much as he'd say it's against his nature to be good. He was a shadow creature after all, but things have been different somehow ever since they initially returned. They seemed to have more free will, perhaps. Personally? For example, the evil version of Nya's brother would make the most of his time to make so many fashion choices, some bad, some good, some worse , all for the goal to spite Kai. Just last week there was a video circling the internet of what the people of Ninjago thought was Kai walking around downtown in full goth-wear. The master of fire then, of course, went on a big rant about how pissed he was. Not that it was embarrassing, but that this was a good outfit which he would never have the guts to wear, since he's not into gothic culture and would want to offend people or something along the lines. All that aside, it was hard for Zane to see the difference between Cole and his evil clone. Sure, the bizarro had red eyes, would curse 4 times in a 7 word sentence and his skin tone was paler than what Zane was used to, but other than that, he rarely saw any difference. After their, what, maybe 4th time meeting in the dead of night on a random location in the city, the raven had become more laid back. The two would have actually nice, meaningful conversations on random topics which would change every half hour, and it would often cause Zane to lose track of time. So maybe if they could be their own individual, and not be controlled by Garmadon, maybe there was a chance for redemption? Was it so wrong for the nindroid to wish upon the thought of such a thing? Nya shrugged, leaning against the kitchen cabinet on the wall behind her. “I guess so… Though I still can't believe how stupid I was to fall for that bastard's trap.” Crossing her hands, Nya's voice went more into an annoyed and embarrassed murmur. “Are you talking about the ‘incident’ back at the repair shop, as you call it?” “Yes. Gods above, he looked just like him! At least now I won't be able to mistake him for our Jay.” Zane hummed, putting the next now clean plate on the metal compartment to dry. It was true, given Bizarro Jay now had visible serpentine features, as opposed to their Jay, who at first had found it quite disturbing being reminded of that again. “It's just…” She spoke again, before exhaling, cheeks red. “He was so…charismatic! He basically sweeped me off my feet like it was nothing!" “They are shameless, so it makes sense for you to have reacted that way to the sudden change in behavior. Jay's never one to be a ‘good flirt’ as one would say.” Taking the towel by the sink, he cleaned his hands. “Yeah, well, at least now I'm not the only one in the ‘Kissed a Bizarro’ club.” Nya huffed, pulling her legs to her chest before resting her chin on her knees. All Zane could do was let an awkward chuckle out as he folded the towel back in place. “Yeah, I guess.” Silence followed, the two not knowing what else to say on the matter. With the lack of action, Cole had taken on his pottery again, probably out to buy clay or in his room working it, while Kai and Jay were by now out on a grocery run. In conclusion, the monastery was quiet, Lloyd probably in his room taking a nap given Jay caught him staying up late reading comics last night.
As for Zane, except for his usual routine, he had started going to the library to get new books and to just hang around the city. In reality, it was an excuse to meet up with his bizarre lover in the desert, a few kilometers away from the city for good measure. Of course, he kept his cover as he'd always first swing by the library and grab a random book which he hadn't read already. He did read them later of course, good literature was never a waste of time. “How was it?” Blinking, Zane's consciousness returned to the room as he glanced towards Nya. “How was what?” “The kiss.” “Oh.” A small pause followed, as White processed the question, his cheeks burning up. Nya's gaze stayed on him as he tried to figure out how to respond. “You know what, nevermind, I don't even know why I asked.” Pushing herself off the counter, the raven herself was blushing, clearly embarrassed by asking such a question out of the blue. “No, no! It's fine. I was just caught off guard is all.” Zane quickly reassured her, waving his hands dismissively in front of himself as he did his best to give her a smile as embarrassed as he himself was. “I'm sorry.” “Don't apologize, you're curious, it's normal.” Once that was out of the way, the duo stayed quiet for a little more before Nya leaned her back on the counter, not meeting Zane's gaze. “It uh… It was… pleasant, I suppose.” The answer got the girl's attention, turning to the master of ice. “Really?” Her brows furrowed, clearly surprised by the answer. She was quick to add “Nothing personal, I just assumed that Cole would be more… rough .” Zane swallowed, cheeks burning up again. “He, he was.” the words were muttered under his breath as he was the one to avoid Nya's gaze this time, quickly clearing his throat. “To be honest I'm unsure of how far he would've gone if I hadn't knocked him out.” Now, the ninja made the terrible mistake of looking at Kai's sister again, seeing her stare at him like he had just landed on earth, or revealed he was a nindroid all over again for that matter, mouth gaping open and face set in shock. “He- Wha- Wait, wait, wait. You're unsure how far he would've- You guys were making out?! ” By now Zane's face probably looked like one of those paint samples, in a nice baby blue color. Did he really have to add that comment?! “I-” Nya cut him off before he could speak. Not that he knew what he was about to say. “No way… No way ! You said you guys kissed !” “We did!” “Kissing and making out to the point of being ‘unsure how far it would go’ are two different things!” “I thought it was better to save the details!” “Nu-huh, not if you found it ‘pleasant'!” Oh gods, how did he get here? It wasn't that Nya seemed angry, she was more shocked than anything, judging by her facial expression and tone. More that he was now talking about kissing Cole like it wasn't just an hour ago when he was one more second away from getting to the same situation they were conversing about right now.
“Hold on, what are the details then?” Nya asked, clearly the topic having piqued her interest for some reason. She seemed quite interested in this for some reason, blinking up at Zane with curiosity in her eyes. “I am unsure you want to hear them.” The blond wasn't sure if his stuttering was because of the conversation on hand, or if his voice box was broken. Probably the first but he decided to convince himself it was the latter. “Now I do! You tell me yours I tell you mine.” Nya was quick to propose, face serious as this time she was set on keeping eye contact. “Yours- As in about your situation with their Jay?” He got a nod in return. Oh. Okay, he didn't expect her to want to openly want to talk about such stuff. But regardless, she did mention she was ‘not alone’ in this whole thing anymore, so maybe she found talking about it with him something kind of therapeutic? It was always nice to talk to someone about something both of you could relate to after all. On another note, it was also a nice way to strengthen the relationship between people. Not to mention that he might be becoming a witness and a participant in what his teammates would call it, ‘girl talk’. Which was weird given he was not a girl, nor did he idenfify as one, but he digressed. Hesitant, he spoke once more. “Well, what.. Do you want to know? Exactly?” “Whatever you give me. How it happened, what led to it, how far it went. Anything you're comfortable sharing.” Oh! Great, okay! … What was he comfortable with sharing though?He had never had anything intimate of sorts happen to him, or talk about it with someone, so he was, to a point, unsure how much is too much . Not that they've done anything other than make out, of course he knew boundaries and a nice time set if one would call it that, but Zane still felt puzzled how much he should share. “Well… We were fighting…” A quick glance was sent to Nya, as she in response gave an encouraging nod, letting Zane continue. “And at one point he used his super strength to break the concrete below me, so the combat was moved to the underground parking lot.” “Kai mentioned a lot of noise. Like, loud noise from below the building.” “Bizarro Cole has the tendency to throw cars around.” “Gotcha, continue.” Zane chuckled at the exchange before moving on. “And so after a few punches were exchanged per say he got me pinned down by my throat.” Nya hissed. “I couldn't use my powers from then on, by the time I lifted my hand he would've crushed my neck.” “Prick.” Nya's comments were a nice way to ease his nerves, giving him a more comfortable way to talk about this. “Yeah,” he chuckled, agreeing, now that he thought back on it. He was sure to ask for an apology from Cole during tomorrow's patrol. “After which, he undid my gi and tore off my chest panelling, which, by the way, thank you for replacing.” “Anytime.” “He messed up a few things. Of course he would, he found it quite amusing breaking me apart. Thankfully the tracker did not fall off my person, so I still had a chance of implanting it, but he needed to be distracted. So, when he got close to tearing away the main connection from my system to my legs’ motor functions, I…” Cheeks flushing blue again, calmer this time, he glanced to the side as he tried to find the will to speak. “I kissed him. At first I thought he wouldn't fall for it, he didn't move to make a reaction whatsoever for the first few seconds. However, he did soon return the gesture…” “And he was not so careful, I assume?” Zane nodded at the raven's question, more spoken as a statement, smiling awkwardly as he tried to relax. Nya seemed non judgmental whatsoever, a small smile on her lips as a way to let him know she was listening and that this was a safe space for him to share. “Yeah, no. He was quite… touchy . I will admit I did get a little carried away at one point, but I blame this on my lack of experience in such a field.” He decided to ignore the surprised snicker the girl let out. “I did regain my focus and I slipped the tracker under the collar of his jacket. After the kiss ended he moved to my neck- which was good because his hand was no longer a threat. I blasted him with ice, froze his head long enough for him to get disoriented and when I knocked him out the ice shattered on the concrete.” Now sitting back on the counter, she seemed to like doing that, Nya was quiet once Zane finished his little summary of what happened. After a while though, his unreasonable worries of being judged vanished as she whistled. “Damn, sounds like some movie shit went down.” “It does, doesn't it?” Funny perspective actually, he hadn't thought about this. Going from fighting to what they were now was quite a cinematic scenario, even if Nya didn't know, or will know, ever , what went down afterwards. Or earlier that same day. “Well, he's still a prick, getting your body so jungled up like this. At least once we figure out how to send them back to where they came from we won't worry about that.” Yeah… right. It was surprising how easily Zane could forget about this major detail. The whole situation had developed this way because of a mission whose goal was to find where their hideout was so the ninja could get rid of them for good. Even now, a month into this sneaking around he had not a clue where the bizarros’ base was located. Not that he imagined Cole would tell him, even with how unfair it was. He's been here countless times, and I mean, sure, they weren't exactly hidden, but now that Zanr thought about it, it felt like the evil clone of his teammate was rubbing it in his face. Which he might as well be doing.
Gods, he's gotten so carried away that he forgot what was his initial reason to go down this path. He needed to get his priorities straight. He was practically yielding at every word Cole would speak and every touch he'd give him like it was his reason to live, meanwhile the guy could all but be planning to stab a blade in his back. Yet… His hand found its way in the pocket of his gi, fingers wrapping around the small key nestled inside it. If he were to hurt him he would've done it by now. There have been countless times where the two were alone, not to mention when his team didn't know his whereabouts. He's had many opportunities to do so, yet what did he do instead? Basically offer his biggest leverage on a silver platter for Zane to control. He was skeptical at the start, of course he was, but so far Cole's been nothing but… Gentle. And sweet. Sure he had a bad way of doing it, for example the peony flowers in his room just a few feet away, but he had good intentions in mind!
...Right?
“Zane?”
He turned his attention back to Nya, who's amusement had melted into a small frown, her eyes scanning Zane's mood and body language. “You okay?” Blinking away his thoughts, Zane nodded, his hand leaving his pocket, the key still inside it. He'll get into this topic later when he's alone. “Yeah, yeah, I'm alright. Got lost in thought, I suppose.” “It's fine. This is kind of a tough situation to be in.”
‘You don't know the half of it.’
Zane kept that thought to himself. “So I guess it's my turn then? If you want to listen, of course.” Looking at Nya, Zane was quickly reminded of their conversation prior. The girl before him looked a bit embarrassed to bring it up, or to actually talk about it, but she'd be quite comfy if she knew of Zane's relationship with the guy he was just reminded he and his team were trying to get rid of. A quick nod. “I do, actually. You listened to my experience and did not judge me whatsoever, it is only appropriate and polite for me to do the same. As much as you want to give me, as you said.” He gave Nya a soft smile, reassuring her she was in a safe space to share her own little situation. In the meantime, he might as well get some tea brewing, he had an inkling this would turn into a long conversation. Which honestly would be good for him to take his mind off the matter at hand. Opening one of the cabinets, he turned to the raven. “Would you like tea?” Giving it a quick thought, a smile tugged at Nya's lips “Yeah, actually.” With that, the teapot was placed on the stove, the tea slowly brewing as Nya started talking about what happened between her and the bizarro version of her ex boyfriend, while the boy before her could only question if the last month was what it seemed.
----- CHAPTER BREAK -----
The wind was cold as it ruffled Cole's hair, maroon colored eyes scanning over the what seemed like never-ending neon lit horizon of Ninjago City. Checking every rooftop in his vicinity, his lips tugged in a thin line, brows furrowed as a heavy sigh escaped his lips, feet moving to leap to the next roof over. Ever since the bizarro had last snuck onto the Destiny's Bounty, Zane has practically gone AWOL, never showing up to his patrol shift the day after as promised. Cole, of course with no way of communication, had figured out the hard way, needing to duck into an alleyway at the last second when instead of the blond he saw thier Jay on the rooftop they usually would meet. Since then the raven had gone out almost every night to try and find if the nindroid had just switched up his shifts with someone for the night but even 2 weeks later there was no sign of Zane. He had even gone off line from what he promised him and had taken a few detours to the ship, but whenever he was around, the ninja wasn't in his room. And as much as he himself would never be able to admit it, he was getting worried. The ninja seemed to be unphased so at least that was a good sign. But then why would Zane just vanish on him like this? It wasn't like him, even back when they were still considering the dangers of being in 10 meter radios of each other. He always showed up. Maybe he found out. No, there's no way. Cole did everything right, there were no slip ups. And, in all honesty, the vision of the plan was slowly moving more and more to the back of his head. Despite his nature he found himself holding some form of… affection , for the nindroid. It was a weird realization at the start, going against everything he believed himself capable of, but with time he became more and more comfortable with that fact. Especially after every interaction spent together. Truth be told, at the start he was getting a bit frustrated that he couldn't crack him that easily, having to listen and engage in conversations that did not interest him whatsoever. But then he started noticing stuff. How small snowflakes would start falling off his hands whenever he'd made those weird hand gestures when he talked about something he was passionate about. How he had trouble holding eye contact at the start, not to mention how he'd sometimes react to physical touch. Mostly he noticed them when Zane became comfortable with those stuff around Cole. His boots thumped as he landed on the fire escape of a small 5 story building, leaning on the railing. Hands ran through his hair, another sigh escaping his lips, staring at the ground below. Could he have figured it out? Or maybe he had become suspicious as to why Cole was doing all of this. Logical, Cole himself would be suspicious. Your sworn enemy, created from darkness itself, suddenly being lovey dovey with you with no hidden agenda? Yeah, right. Maybe he had bitten off more than he can chew, gone too fast. It's only been, what, 2 months now probably. He knew it would take time, such things always did, especially in this case. But what he had not even considered an option, an obstacle, was that he'd get attached. He didn't even know he was capable of that. But with every conversation, every stolen glance between the two, it was becoming harder and harder to swallow the mere thought of betraying those baby blues. “Fuck…” The curse whispered under her breath filled the air around Cole as he pushed himself off the railing, hands falling by his sides. He had scared him off. And Zane was right to be scared, but oh how the thought of it itself felt like a knife stabbed in his gut. Staring at his feet, a shadow casted on the moonlit street below caught his attention. Now on high alert, Cole leaned off the side of the railing, looking up. Once his suspicions were confirmed he all but sprinted up the flight of stairs to the rooftop, gaze never leaving the sky above. A grin tugged at his lips as he raised his arm before him. “Never been happier to see a bird, I tell ya that.” His words were spoken through a chuckle as Zane's falcon came to land on his forearm, claws firm over his skin but not enough to cause harm as his free hand scratched the underside of the bird's beak. “Zane around here?” Once the bird was done ruffling its feathers, it took just a few seconds to analyze Cole before flying off once more. And without a second doubt, the bizarro followed after it. It might've been better if he was to watch his steps when he jumped around, at one point almost missing the jump. He felt as if adrenalin was at last fully entering his system at the mere thought of seeing the master of ice again. He was never one to feel desperation but he was starting to get a grasp of what it felt like. Stopping once to catch his breath, Cole's gaze followed the blurred silhouette of the bird of metal, as it slowly distended on the rooftop of the Ninjago City Mall. The building itself still showed signs of damage, most of it being closed for renovations after the whole fight and all a couple of months back, but it was standing nonetheless. Scanning the outline, a figure registered in his vision as his legs moved once more.
“Hey!” Breathless, the small glimpse of excitement was poorly hidden in the raven's voice as Cole at last made his way on the top of the building. His legs, now aching from the abuse, slowly carried him closer to Zane, who did not look at him whatsoever, petting his bird as it sat on the railing of the rooftop smoker area. “A bit of an obvious spot? Don't you think?” The blond did not respond, Cole's footsteps slowing down to a stop a few meters from him. The bizarro could tell by the look on his face that something was amiss, blond eyebrows furrowed together, the shine in Zane's eyes dim. He swallowed, small huffs for air still leaving his lips, before speaking again. “Been gone a while… Took a vacation last minute or something?” “Needed repairs.” The answer was quick. Even. As if Zane had rehearsed this conversation before it even happened, reading a script he had already written and predicted. Cole decided to bite nonetheless. “What kind of repairs?” “Not important.” “They must've been. You've been gone for over 2 weeks, was getting the idea you don't want a bad influence like me around anymore.” His weak attempt at uplifting the conversation was a failure, blue eyes lifting to finally meet his gaze. The small tug of Cole's lips fell. Silence followed, no one daring to utter a word. One from the risk of what may follow, the other with motives yet unknown. To Cole at least. After what felt like an eternity of tension filled silence, a sigh escaped Zane's lungs as he took his gaze away from the raven, as if to gather strength, before facing him again. “What is it that you want?” The bizarro’s expression turned puzzled, a confused grin on his lips. “What are you talking about?” “I'm serious, Cole.” His voice trembled as Zane seemed to be doing his best at keeping himself composed. “You must have something that you want from all of this. And I doubt that it is whatever… this is.” Cole could only stare as the master of ice gesture between them, voice more stoic, cold than usual. Than the new, last 2 months usual, at least. His senses were on high alert. This could go really bad or really well. “There is. And it's exactly ‘whatever this is’.” He spoke at last, tone more controlled. “I don't know how much more proof you need from me.” “Don't pretend like this isn't a game you're playing.” “I'm not playing anything . Was this why you just vanished? I thought we were past that, you literally have the key to my powers in the palm of your hand !” “That only weakens you a little, it does not stop whatever it is you have in mind.” “And what do you think that is?” This was not going well, the frustration was getting to him. For 2 weeks Cole's been deprived of the company of the boy before him and the moment Zane was back he was suspicious of him. Sure he had his reasons to be, but he didn’t expect for things to go like this so early. At his question Zane seemed to hesitate. Okay. He didn't know. Or hadn't gotten an idea yet. This was okay. As much as he was growing to despise lying to the blond, the raven couldn't face telling him the truth. Taking a small step forward, his movements were slow, cautious as a warm hand took hold of one covered by synthetic skin, demeanor now more relaxed. “There is nothing I want that I don't have already…” The tone was quiet, soothing, just like the small circle he rubbed with his thumb over Zane's hands. The duo now standing almost chest to chest, crimson kept his gaze locked on blue, softness hidden in its depths. The master of ice seemed to be at a crossroad, by what his facial expression gave away at least. The raven's gotten quite good at reading him, even if he still wasn't sure of what might be going on in his head sometimes. He was still not convinced, at least not fully. Lifting his free hand, ever so gentle he cupped Zane's cheek, the nindroid still as ever. “Talk to me.” It wouldn't be easy, it was never going to be easy, even if Cole never found himself in this situation. It was expected of Zane to break away the rose tinted glasses of their affair, build up on one whole lie turned truth, at some point. Even if he did understand the situation and where the raven was coming from, they were still going to face trouble. Zane, for explaining all of this, and Cole for figuring out how to justify himself for not going through with the initial plan, both to their righteous teammates. At last, the nindroid's gaze softened, some of the light in his eyes returning. Glancing to the side, Zane's gaze was quick to give away the small glimpse of shame hidden deep in his core. “It's complicated.” “Look at the situation we're in, Snowflake, it can't get more complicated than that.” The barely-there smile from Zane soothed Cole's nerves a little, his own lips tugging upwards. “Is it something I did?” Silence. Zane was still avoiding eye contact. Good enough answer. “It's stupid.” Zane murmured. “It's not if it's bothering you, c'mon.” “I just… Had a conversation with Nya after you left and it got me thinking.” “Did she see me leave?” Zane shook his head quickly, washing away the small tension built on Cole's shoulders. “No,no… Just, I don't know, it's weird being here with you while my friends still think you're…” Voice faltering, blue eyes moved to the side, away from Cole's. “You can say it, whatever they think is probably true.” “Not in my eyes.” “Snowflake, c'mon.” “No, Cole.” “Zane. Your friends and the fuckers i call my teammates obviously dont think fondly of each other. Me and the others were created to be the one thing that you aren't and that you hate in yourselves. Not to mention all the crimes we've committed, or the fights we've been in. We're on the opposite sides of a war, it's bound for there to be a landmine risk.” Even with the lighthearted tone Cole used, Zane's eyes stayed sorrow-filled. The raven was never one to comfort. He was shit at it, the total opposite of his good self. He never understood the need to assure someone else that things will be fine, why would one do that if things were not in fact going in a good direction? Still, the look on the nindroid weighed heavy on his chest. His smile dropped, the hand on Zane's cheek caressing his cheekbone as he just stood quiet, thinking over his next words carefully. “I don't want you risking your safety all the time because of me.” “Z, even if I don't have my powers I can still fight.” “I didn’t mean you can’t defend yourself. But showing up on my patrol hours, to the Bounty-” “I promised you I won’t come by again without telling you first.” “You didn’t tell me when you came last week.” Shutting up, the bizarro stared at his lover, unsure of what to answer. So he knew that Cole came by the ship to look for him while he was gone. Glancing at Zane’s falcon, the birds still stood on the railing beside them, observing the two. It's possible he had seen him through the falcon or something. He brought his gaze back to the ninja. “What happened with the communication thingy you were gonna whip up?” The change of topic seemed to frustrate the blond a little, but nonetheless he let it slide. Slipping his hand into his pocket, titanium hand held out a small device. Once Cole took it he quickly figured out it was an old phone, the gadget clearly having seen better days but it seemed to be working, the screen lighting up the second the side button was pressed. At first glance it looked like a normal phone but once Cole's thumb swiped up, unlocking it, he was met with a simple black screen with a few options and a small pixelated image of a bird. Clicking on it, the raven was brought to what seemed like a simple chat room, with a text box at the bottom. “When the message is sent it’ll look distorted, for safe measure. Try it out.” And true to Zane’s words, once Cole typed in a message, just spamming random letters, the moment it left the chat box and it was delivered it turned into nothing but random symbols. Scoffing softly, his lips tugged upwards. “Always so cautious, are you?” Just as he said that, Zane’s falcon let out an almost silent chirp. The blond patted him on the head, bringing his attention to his bird friend before answering. “Better be safe than sorry.” Touche, he had a point. He was surprised how long they’ve been able to keep this going without one of Zane’s teammates getting suspicious, and he was sure the blond was thinking the same. Not to mention Cole’s own problems back at the base. It wasn’t a one time thing for him to come back from a meet-up with the master of ice, only to find his dark version waiting for him, asking for updates on any intel. Nodding softly, Cole turned the phone off and tucked it inside his jacket's pocket. The silence was weird, now that the pair were used to talking all night whenever they’d see each other. It felt like a foreign ground, even if that was what happened most of the time before they got comfortable with each other. But even back then, they’d jab and bicker, which at least filled the void. Now none of them knew what to say, or if they should speak at all. So, instead of doing that, Cole just…watched. He let his eyes wander around the master of ice, who still had his own focus on the falcon softly cooing against his hand. He looked to be okay, a little restless maybe. His hair was a little out of place but it could be because of the masks they wore. His clothes were neat as ever, tucked perfectly, but he did notice a wrinkle or two at the bottom of one of his pant legs. Which was weird, since he always ironed his clothes to perfection. Bringing his gaze up to look at his face again, Zane seemed to be zoning out. The situation was stressing him more than he let out on. Understandable, Cole wasn’t making any of this easier for him, or himself. Stepping closer, with Zane’s body now facing the horizon of the city, large hands wrapped around his waist, pulling the nindroid’s back flushed to Cole’s chest. A kiss was planted on the small bits of exposed skin between his neck and his shoulder. “ ‘ve missed you.” Resting his chin on the boy’s shoulder, a second later Cole felt him lean his head on his own. “You’ve been saying that a lot.” “You don’t want me to?” Zane scoffed, leaning his weight against Cole as his hand left his falcon to rest over the bizarro’s. “I didn’t say that.” “Good,” a peck was placed on the blond’s cheek, ”would’ve continued saying it anyway.” “You’re going soft on me, Brookstone.” “I’m not Brookstone.” At that, Zane’s brows furrowed, lifting his head to look at Cole over his shoulder. “What do you mean?” “Clone’s don’t have last names, Snowflake. Since I’m only a copy of your Cole, I carry the same name, but I don’t have his parents, nor the same background. I know about them, but since I don't have them I can’t have a last name. No parents and all that shit.” His voice was rather calm as he explained this to the ninja, large hand lifting only to tuck a small strand of blond hair back in place. He had noticed he was doing this a lot too, but he didn’t mind really. His hair was pretty after all. Zane only hummed after the explanation, turning back to face the city. “There’s more to you than just being a copy.” Cole’s interest perked as a small smirk appeared on his face. “I’m quite handsome too, I know.” Though his comment only made Zane turn to face him, Cole’s hands now falling to rest at the ninja’s hips. “Not just that. You say you’re all evil but if you were you would’ve killed me by now. You've had multiple opportunities to do so.” “You know I wouldn't.” “Now I do. But a few months back you would’ve done it in the blink of an eye, and you wouldn’t have been phased at all.” To that, the bizarro did not reply, letting the nindroid speak. “Ever since you and your team had been brought back you’ve been… different. Your main goal isn’t to eliminate us, or to cause chaos, you’re not under anyone’s control. At least it seems that way.” The hand resting on his cheek was welcomed, the cold touch soothing, as Cole kept listening. “You’re your own person now, Cole. You have your own life, hobbies… Sure, in my opinion throwing around cars is not the best pastime there is,” The raven’s lips tugged upwards as Zane’s small teasing was smuggled into his little speech, “ but you’re not only evil now. You’re not just a modified copy of someone else. You look like him, have the same powers as well, but that’s all there is, the similarities are all on surface level.” This was a weird conversation. The way it was going at least. Starting off with the whole trusting each other thing once more, to Zane now all but ensuring Cole that he wasn’t just a doppelganger. That he believed there was more to him than it seemed. And maybe there was? He never thought he’d be able to have fun just talking instead of committing crime after all, yet here he was. “You’re too sweet to me, Snow…” The hushed response was enough to make Zane smile, even if a little as his thumb brushed over Cole’s cheek. Cole himself felt like all he could do was just watch the nindroid before him, eyes half-lid and almost gentle. “Do you prefer me fighting you?” The teasing on Zane’s part he didn’t expect, but it did make him chuckle. “I mean, that would be hot…” “You find it attractive for me to punch you in the face?” Cole shrugged, a carefree smile on his lips now. “I like it when you get feisty.” “You've got some weird preferences.” “That’s why I’m here.” Zane rolled his eyes at the teasing, the banter causing him to smile nonetheless. “You’re impossible.” “You’re not so bad yourself.” Tone quiet, teasing, Cole could only stare as he watched the master of ice blush in this pretty blue color, leaning forward until their lips met in a soft kiss. It was a bit rougher than usual, mainly because Cole missed this so much, but he kept it playful. It had always felt weird kissing Zane, but in a nice way. The temperature was sure to be taken into account, how could one not point it out, but it was also the feeling, the after taste. Even though Cole knew Zane’s skin was synthetic, a mimic of real flesh, it didn’t feel like it at all. Only in those moments when he’d remember that fact did the blond’s skin seem to feel smoother, no really defined texture to it. And after every make out he’d have the taste of metal left in his mouth, which was to be expected, but it had some weird sweetness to it. It wasn’t as bad as Cole thought it would be, but on the total contrary. He found it pleasing even. His hands gave Zane's waist a soft squeeze as he felt the hand on his cheek move to the back of his neck, slim fingers sliding into dark locks. Cole all but melted at the spot as he received a tug at his hair, flushing the nindroid's body flat against his. It was funny how nicely the nindroid fit in his arms. Their height difference wasn't a major one, an inch or two apart, but the bizarro was still a little taller. Which, caused him to lean forward a little to get on Zane's level, and it soon ended in the nindroid leaning against the railing of the rooftop, one of Cole's hands gripping at its handle. It didn't take long for the kiss to melt into something more intense, Cole nipping and licking at Zane's bottom lip, who in return granted him entry, both hands now buried in black hair. Despite the cold air, and the cold body pressed against his, the master of earth only felt himself growing hotter with every hungry kiss shared between them, not to mention those sweet noises he got out of the nindroid. It was surprising how vocal and responsive Zane could be in such moments, it was one of the first things he noticed about him that intrigued the bizarro back at the mall. For someone who's whole body was artificial, not to mention being this composed, it was sure a surprise to see him react like this to just a makeout. Not that it wasn't welcomed of course, It was greatly appreciated from Cole's side. Teeth tugged at Zane's bottom lip, with a shaky breath as response before their mouths flushed together again, Cole growing more and more forward with his approaches as one hand gripped at the ninja’s belt, loosening it up. The feeling was so intoxicating that the two seemed to almost forget the fact they were on the rooftop of one of the highest buildings in Ninjago City, not to mention just a few hours before midnight when people were still roaming the streets below. But with Zane's cautiously hand sliding under his shirt and Cole's teeth leaving faint bite marks on the nindroid's neck, it was quite easy to forget how exposed one could be. Zane's heavy breath and acute whimpers in his ear, the bizarro's fangs loosened up on their hold before he licked the new mark he left behind. His stomach would do a small tremble here and there as the blond's hand traveled further up, exploring his skin, the coldness spreading through his being. Despite being used to the temperature difference it was only surface level so it was normal for Cole's breath to hitch as Zane got bolder, palm pressed fully against his abdomen. The deja vu was shared when the raven's hand replaced his mouth, a firm hold appearing around the slender neck of the ninja before their lips collided for another taste. The grip although, this time, was more exciting than threatening, the dark elemental ribbing small caress on the side of Zane's throat as their tongues slid against one another. Throughout all of this, the only thing the nindroid seemed to be capable of was making such sinful sounds that Cole's blood was getting confused as to where it was needed most, in his head or down south. Pulling back after a few more lewd kisses, for the unfortunate need for oxygen, the raven stared down at the boy before him, taking in the sight. He always found Zane pretty, even before their little affair, but fuck did he look down right devine right now. Trapped between him and the railing which was up to his back, blue taking over his cheeks and face as the lips which Cole had just been so frantically kissing were now all swollen, glistening with spit. Not to mention how glossy his eyes were with need. It took all of Cole's will-power to not attack him with his mouth again. “What a pretty sight you are…” A small smirk tugged at his lips as he praised the master of ice, his thumb moving to rest under Zane's chin, lifting his head just a little. The nindroid only sighed in content, his eyes locked on red ones. A few more kisses were pressed against his lips before traveling to his neck, each one becoming more and more hungry as fangs grazed over the spot where the column supporting Zane's skull under the synthetic skin stood, making him feel weak in the knees. Still, some common sense must've kicked back in through the mist, clouding the nindroid's mind with lust, as a titanium hand gripped Cole's wrist, stopping his hand from undoing his gi belt. Looking back up at Zane, the bizarro's eyes were curious as to why the sudden call for a stop. “We're out in the open.” The strength needed of Cole to not kiss him senseless once he heard how breathy Zane's voice was must be studied. Yet, the raven was quick to realize what he meant as the realization that they were, in fact, still out in public on the mall's rooftop, settled in. “Your place empty?” Zane took a second to think, or to process the question with how out of it he still seemed to be, before shaking his head. “No, everyone's home.” An expected answer but it was worth a shot. “That monastery you guys use?” “Our sensei is there right now working on some research. It's also too far.” Cole chuckled at that, making the blond flush a deeper shade of blue. “Awh, someone's impatient.” “ Cole .” “Sorry, sorry.” Cole giggled, pressing a slow, tender kiss to his lips as an apology, despite his own inner demons demanding him to stop being gentle. “I suppose a hotel won't do either?” Zane must've been trying to break his record, or see how deep of a shade of blue he could get. Still, despite it all, he shook his head once more. Figured, who wouldn't tell the news or at least their friends that two of Ninjago's saviors, on appearance at least, were checking into a hotel at 1am. Not to mention the nindroid seemed to be embarrassed by the idea of renting a hotel room for one night for such a reason. It had become obvious by this point that doing it out in the open isn't an option as well, and he doubted Zane would be the type to continue this in some dark alley in the smallest corner of Ninjago. And frankly, Cole wasn't either. So that left them with one option. “C'mon.” Cole hushed, pulling back from the blond against his lustful wish of being as close as possible, to take Zane's hand and pull him after himself. The nindroid blinked a few times, using his free hand to hastily fix himself up enough for at least his gi to not be fully open, leaving him bare chested. “Where are we going?” Cole hesitated with answering, stopping at the other end of the rooftop, looking over the buildings to figure out the quickest route to his bike. Even with his powers he still preferred to drive all the way to the city instead of walking by foot. That would take days, if not weeks. “My place.” Zane's hold on his hand went limp. Turning to look at the nindroid, shock having taken over his features. “But- aren't your teammates-” “They're out. Zane and Kai are on some fuckery vacay or some shit and I don't know where Jay is. But then again he never tells us. He could be gone for hours or months.” Letting go of Zane’s hand to jump over the railing of the rooftop, Cole was now facing the nindroid, holding onto the metal handle and feet planted on the small space there was. He was about to jump on one of the columns built up for decoration on the side of the mall, but stopped himself. Red eyes wandered around the ninja's face, reading his expression. “What's wrong? Change your mind?” The raven took a while to get an answer, blue eyes staring at him yet right past him. ”Snowflake?” He tried again, voice softer this time as the air ruffled his hair. This time, Zane's attention snapped back to him, this time the hesitation evident in his face. “We don't have to if-” “No.” The master of ice was quick to cut in, voice louder than what Cole expected. Furrowing his eyebrows at the small outburst, Zane seemed to calm down a little, flustered and a little nervous once again. “No, no, I do, I just… Are you sure?” It was the bizarro’s turn to be uncertain, taking a second to think it over. It's been around 2 days since his Zane and Kai had run off to gods know where, and Jay's been gone since last Wednesday. He's been mentioning some big project of his so it might take a while for him to get back, given he'd take such vanish runs to get, more so steal, materials. Still, it did not mean the duo couldn't come home any second. But then again, they knew of Cole's plan. He’d be able to make up some shit to excuse why he got one of the ninja to their hideout. Meeting the ninja's gaze again, Cole just nodded before leaning forward, placing one last peck to cold lips to soothe Zane's nerves, along with his own. “I'm sure.” They made no attempt to move for a few seconds, the cold wind whipping around them as Cole was still on the edge of the rooftop, both on opposite sides of the railing. Giving the nindroid one last smile, the raven leaned back. “C'mon. My bike's a few blocks away.”
----- CHAPTER BREAK -----
The drive to the Bizarro's hideout was quite interesting, to say the least. The bike was relatively normal, a slightly modified Triumph Rocket 3 R, which was obviously not bought by the raven, but Zane didn't say anything on the matter. It's not like he expected an honestly earned motorcycle. His falcon had also already flown away either to the Bounty or just around the city back when they two were on the rooftop. Driving through the streets, Zane is now wearing Cole's jacket and the second helmet he had so he'd be at least a little hidden in case they run into citizens. Which wasn't that big of an issue as the ninja initially thought, thankfully. What he didn't expect though, was for the duo to stop at a dead end alleyway. Brows furrowed, the nindroid followed Cole's frame as he sat up from the bike, the engine still on. “It's… here?” His voice was muffled from the helmet, but Cole seemed to have heard him just fine as he turned to look at the master of ice before a chuckle traveled up his throat. “What? No. We're taking a shortcut.” Turning back to the end of the alley, Zane's confusion only grew. The bizarro seemed to be looking around for something, before he seemed to have found it. Walking to the wall, he felt around the concrete before pressing his palm on a specific section. A rumble was sent through the ground, a minor one which lasted a few seconds before the wall started moving. Watching from the bike, the blond's eyes skipped between Cole and the now big entrance in the previously firm wall. The bizarro was quick to get on the bike once more, driving the machine inside the dark tunnel which led to an underground level, mid drive hitting a spot on the wall on their left. Another rumble followed, indicating that was the button for the entrance from inside. Truth be told, Zane was hesitant on coming here when Cole first suggested it. Not only because of the risk of being caught by his teammates, which was quite terrifying to think about. Even with Cole here, they were still outnumbered, not to mention that even with his electricity proof wear he still wasn't sure how much voltage intake the clothing could handle. Not to mention in close combat. But the main reason he was unsure of following through with this, as much as he wanted to, was the original plan. Find the hideout, figure out what kept the bizarros alive, eliminate it. And now, with him literally being on his way to their base, driven by a bizarro nonetheless, it would be hard to keep such an accomplishment from his own team. This was the sole reason for the fight that caused his whole relationship with the raven to develop to happen in the first place. On one hand he had this weird but nice dynamic between Cole and himself, but on the other he hated lying to his friends. Sure, he's lied to them about the meet ups and where he was going on his free days, but those were not as drastic pieces of information as this was. He was going in, first hand, invited, to the one place the team's been trying to find for months . This was only becoming a bigger mess with every interaction and he wasn't surprised it got to such an intimate stage, but he never once thought Cole himself would propose this. Maybe after they're done he could look around? But then that thought made his gut twist with guilt. Cole had given him so much trust, had gone so far as to give Zane the key to his elemental powers, leaped off a roof, having faith in Zane that he'd save him, and now he was showing him, taking him to the one place he shouldn't. Even if he knew about the ninja's plan, or if he does or at least had an inkling about it which wasn't far from the truth probably, he still shouldn't be doing this. But he trusted Zane enough. He wasn't so sure if that was a good thing anymore. It must've been 20 minutes since they entered the tunnel, given Cole was speeding very much above the limit, before the engine of the bike rumbled to a stop, titanium arms still wrapped around Cole's waist for balance. It was still quite dim, even after Zane took off his helmet, the bizarro now by his side as he waited for the nindroid to hop off the bike as well. Once on his feet, blue eyes scanned around the space they were in as their footsteps echoed off the cold walls, further into the tunnel. “Where are we?” “A tunnel.” Cole's voice was light hearted as he led the ninja, looking around until he saw another entrance in the wall, leading left. “You've been here before, though I guess you never went in. ” Puzzled, Zane stared at the raven as he jumped up the little step which led to the side tunnel, light being seen at the end. Judging by his systems compass they were somewhere far south, the coordinates changing with every step he took after the bizarro. “We're in the desert?” A hum was his answer, Cole more relaxed than he should've been with the situation they were in. But how were there tunnels built under the desert? It didn't make any sense. As far as his database was able to come up with, there were no man made constructions such as this anywhere in the Sea of Sand. Maybe they were closer to the Echoing Canyons? This could be some cave. He quickly shoved that thought out. The tunnels were way too straightforward to be natural, not to mention the smooth walls. Stopping for a few seconds, his eyes focused on the wall on his left. Specifically on something on it. He looked around. The tunnel itself was of a massive size, probably 10 meters tall and just as much wide. Not to mention the amount of ash at his feet. His eyes scanned the object on the wall. There really were no tunnel systems made like this here. Man-made that is. He faced Cole, who had walked a few meters further before stopping, now turned to look at the nindroid, a smile breaking on his lips at Zane's little epiphany. “Ouroboros.” The name itself was a ghostly whisper but felt so loud in Zane's ears, the giant faint marks of shed snake's skin stuck to the wall beside him giving him goosebumps. The bizarro’s smile widened, pointing a finger at him, approval in his eyes. “Bingo.” “Your hideout is the Great Devour's old imprisonment?” “Yeah. It's big, it's got tunnels travelling from Ninjago all the way to the Wailing Alps. Not to mention with such space and how sturdy it is Kai and Jay can go berserk without a problem or the risk of ruining it all to bits.” The calm tone in which Cole spoke as he looked around was almost unnerving to the blond. “Though it did take a little work to fix up rooms and stuff. My hands were fucked up for weeks after that.” The two continued walking, Zane picking up the pace to get to the raven, feeling creeped out from the memories and the fact that the snake that almost ruined the whole city of Ninjago had been in these same tunnels. At one point, Cole's feet paused, his hand extended to the side, stopping the nindroid in his tracks. “Is something wrong?” “No, just… stay here, I'll check to see if any of the others are back.” With that, the master of ice watched as Cole walked a few meters further before turning a left. Now all alone in the tunnels, Zane's thoughts from earlier returned. He knew where the bizarros were located, had the exact coordinates, and in addition he now knew of the secret passage they took to get to the city unseen... Not to mention that most of them appeared to be out of town for their own personal reasons, leaving only Cole behind. Zane could already come up with a plan for how to proceed from here, hence he tells his friends. That's what one part of himself was thinking. The logical one. But then the other side was quick to speak up. He couldn't do that. Not to Cole. Not after all of this. And especially not after what they were about to do. Just the thought of that made him weak in the knees all over again. As much as he would've denied the chances of this happening a couple of months ago, he couldn't run away from the truth any longer. The truth his core spoke of, the joy he felt when he first saw Cole tonight, or how his system was close to override whenever he'd call him that stupid, silly nickname. He never thought he'd be in this situation but at the same time he felt like it was meant to be. Even with their previous rivalry, now all of that seemed insignificant whenever blue eyes met red, cold hands met warm ones. With every kiss shared he was only sinking deeper into a rabbit hole he didn't wish to leave, even if his instincts told him he should. 10 minutes must've passed with Zane stuck in his thoughts, before the familiar sound of boots echoing through the tunnels appeared. Gaze focused on the way Cole went, the blond’s system was on high alert, ready to indulge in combat in case it wasn’t who he expected to turn the corner. To his relief, a familiar broad frame appeared. The small light from the tunnel illuminated the dark hair of the master of earth as he waved him over, to which Zane was quick to oblige. Those tunnels send shivers down his spine in the worst way possible. “All clear.” Cole's voice registered in his ears as he walked over, a small smile evident on his lips as his gaze ranked over the nindroid. A chuckle of amusement followed. “What? The tunnels giving you the creeps or something?” “A little bit.” Zane admitted, glancing over his shoulder before facing Cole again. “The fact that the Great Devour was living here doesn't help either.” “Keyword: was . Now it's just big, empty spaces underground.” Large hands rested at his hips, soothing his nerves a little. “Though I'd love to devour you , now that the coast is clear.” Face turning pure blue, Zane slapped Cole's shoulder, who just laughed in return. “Not funny.” “C'mon, ‘t was a good one, couldn't miss the opportunity.” Laughter dying down, red eyes focused on him once more as the air rose in temperature. Or it seemed to be, with how hungry Cole's gaze turned in the matter of seconds it was hard to tell if it was the temperature or just Zane's imagination. In any case, it only made the blond more flustered. The grip on Zane's hips became a little more firm, pulling him closer as all thoughts which were once troubling him seemed to vanish in the blink of an eye, cold hands resting on Cole's chest once more. “You're cute when you get scared, you know that?” The tone in which the raven spoke was down right greedy as their faces inched closer together, one hand leaving Zanes hip to take hold of his chin, thumb brushing over his lower lip. “You have a weird way with words.” Zane muttered, though his voice was now uneven. How could it not be when he could feel Cole's breath against his lips. “I'll take that as a compliment.” One last hushed response, before the bizarro finally locked their lips together. It was more gentle than the one they shared back at the rooftop but still just as sensual, just seconds after Zane feeling Cole nip at his bottom lip. Breath hitching in his throat, he parted his lips a little further, to which the raven immediately took the opportunity, his tongue meeting Zane's almost immediately. The nindroid was by now gripping Cole's shirt for dear life, trying to calm down his harddrive from overheating. The sensation of it all was able to send him into a spiral as he felt rough hands slide further down until they reached right at the start of his thighs. Pulling back, Zane was left breathless, despite needing no air whatsoever, as Cole pressed a few more kisses to his lips before taking a hold of his hand. Leading him further inside the base, Zane could only follow as he did his best not to trip on his feet. Stepping inside a big open space, he was only able to get a glimpse around before they got to what seemed to be Cole's room. He was surprised to see how much the place looked like an actual home, couches and furniture placed in various rooms which the bizarro spoke of making. The bedroom he was pulled into itself looked nice, a little empty but nothing that overwhelming. It seemed as neat as it could get, a few pieces of clothing on the bed in the corner, along with a table with various stuff, from random papers to a TV placed on it. Though the nindroid had little time to look around, and quite frankly little interest, once he felt a hand move behind his neck, pulling him into another, rougher kiss. The force with which Cole pulled him in was a little harsher, Zane needing a second to find balance on his feet before returning the kiss. Now in the seclusion of Cole's room, the duo were able to let go, rough hands exploring confidently while slim ones made their way back into jet black hair. Their shoes were the first to go, carelessly kicked off and left somewhere on the room's floor, which they'll bother finding later. The master of earth, encouraged by the slowly rising confidence shown by his partner, slid his hands down Zane's back. Gripping at the back of his thighs,lifting him up with no effort whatsoever, Cole chuckled against Zane's lips at the small startled noise the nindroid made. One hand resting at Cole's shoulder for balance, Zane figured it wouldn't be needed, as soon enough he felt the two of them spin, his back meeting the soft surface of the mattress with the boy above him nestled between his legs. One more thing that Cole and Zane's teammate had in common, they apparently adored having their bed be fluffy. He quickly shoved that thought aside, this wasn't the time to find similarities between his friend and his lover. What also helped get his mind off that topic was when Cole's lips left his, only to attach to Zane's neck, sucking onto the synthetic skin until it turned pink, the nindroid squirming at the contact. Letting his hands wander, leaving Cole's hair, they worked to push the leather jacket off his back, which the raven quickly gathered was the goal. Pulling back from the crook of his neck, which was now covered in soft pink patches, the bizarro did quick work to get the nindroid out of his jacket, crumpling it into a ball before throwing it in some corner of the room. In any other scenario, Zane would comment on how that can ruin the leather but he was unable to with Cole's lips back on his, making his system go static. Now with the jacket gone, the blond was able to freely let his hands run over the muscles of Cole's arms, the loose tank top he wore giving enough space for his hands to slide underneath it, making the raven groan against his lips. “You're more bold than I thought.” The words were hushed against Zane's lips before their mouths collided in another hungry kiss, the nindroid pushing himself further into the mattress. “I'm full of surprises.” “Last time I heard those words I ended up unconscious.” Cole chuckled, hands sliding to Zane's waist, the ninja letting him undo his belt and loosen his gi open. “You gonna ice me up again?” The master of ice was unable to respond as large hands moved up his stomach, a pleasured breath being the only noise he made before opening his eyes to look into red ones. The two kept eye contact as Cole slowly pulled at his hips, Zane pushing the white gi off before resting on his elbows, as the raven got busy with taking off the bandages around his chest. “No.” The answer was quiet, almost breathless as he focused on Cole's gaze. Panting quietly as large hands unwrapped the last layer of protection on Zane's chest, letting them fall to the side. “Good to know.” Even with the low tone in which the two spoke, the words rang in their ears, Cole's hands now sliding down a pale chest to rest at the blond's abdomen. It took Zane all his will power to not writhe, the touch being wanted way further down. Sadly, that didn't happen as soon yet another smile appeared on the bizarro’s lips before he pulled back, knees digging into the mattress as he swiftly took off his tank top as well. Had the ninja been needing air, his oxygen would've gotten stuck in his throat at the sight. It wasn’t anything he hasn't already seen really, he's trained with Cole for over 2 years now, and has seen him shirtless plenty, but now it was totally different, and with a different person as well. The skin adorned the same scars, the physic was identical, but it did not nonetheless stop the nindroid from staring. Lifting his hand he traced a line down the center of Cole's stomach, the skin trembling under his cool touch as he followed the path his fingers made, eyes staring in awe. The bizarro, on the other hand, stayed still, letting Zane admire him for as long as he wanted. Though by his own eyes, the nindroid could tell he was confused, or maybe surprised, as to why he was doing that. And he was. Usually in such situations by this time he would've been halfway done with the smell of sex heavy in the air. But then again, Zane wasn't his usual one night stands, now was he? The cold contact against his skin itself made his stomach tighten, not to mention how… gentle Zane was. That, he wasn't used to either. It was always rough and brutal. This was, to say the least, now a foreign ground to him. The look of pure admiration on the blond's face didn't help his case either. “You're pretty…” The quiet words echoed in his ears, his heart skipping a beat at the compliment as Zane's hand now rested at his lower stomach. Searching his expression, Cole wasn't sure what he was looking for but he found nothing except marvel in his eyes. He swallowed thickly. Flustured, a nervous smile appeared on his face. “Ever seen yourself?” “Yes. Plenty of times.. but you're just remarkable.” At this point he had no idea what to respond, all his usual social skills, in such situations at least, having vanished into thin air. All the bizarro could do was stare down in astonishment at Zane. Who in return must've noticed him feeling out of his waters, as red eyes followed him when he sat up, hand resting on his chest as a pair of cold lips found his, this time gentle. Soft. The switch of the tension in the room was somehow drastic yet perfectly well paced, calloused hands taking a hold of Zane's waist, pulling them closer together, the smell of mint and winter filling Cole's senses. Before he knew it, the position between them had slowly changed, with the raven leaning back, now sitting down on the mattress with Zane straddling him as cold hands cradled his face. He was grateful for the chance of friction, his hands guiding the ninja's hips to grind down against his, heavy breathing and quiet moans being the result as the kiss at last broke. If the view of the nindroid below him was mesmerizing, this one was sure to kill him as blue eyes stared down at him, the marks he had left on his neck earlier coming to light. He didn't know how Zane would be able to explain or cover them but it was an issue for the future. Right now the only thing he knew was that he couldn't look away from the boy before him. This time it was Zane himself who initiated the next move, another slow roll of his hips making Cole's eyes close, a heavy breath traveling up his throat in sync with the sweet noise the nindroid made. Cold lips attached themselves to the bizarro's neck, the movement continuing as his fingers tightened their grip on the nindroid's sides. Quiet breaths and moans filled the room as Cole all but melted under the sweet kisses which traveled from his throat to his collarbones, the tent he was sporting growing with every roll of Zane's hips. “Fuck, Snowflake…” Cole all but moaned as Zane sucked onto the small sweet spot on the side of his neck, practically melting under the master of ice, despite the irony. In spite of how nice the feeling was, the raven couldn't help himself but try to guide the nindroid to move faster, grind harder against him, but in this moment he felt particularly weak as Zane kept the same pace despite everything. “Relax.” Zane whispered into his ear, another chilly kiss pressed to the column of Cole's neck. “I want to take my time with you…” “It's not like it's my first, Z.” A chuckle traveled up his throat as the bizarro relaxed under the touch of slim hands sliding to the other side of his neck and into his hair. “I gathered. But it'll be a shame not to appreciate you like this when I have the opportunity.” Might as well knock him out again with how sweet the nindroid was, confusing Cole's blood circulation yet again, unsure if the words caused him to go red in the face or even harder in his boxers. He didn't even know he was into… praise? Body worship? He wasn't sure what this counted as, but fuck did his body have a reaction to it. Zane finally made another move, hands sliding to the middle of Cole's chest, pushing him backwards until he laid down, the roles now reversed. Sadly the friction against his lap slowed, making the raven groan in disappointment, opening his eyes to look at the sight above him. Zane sure was taking him for a spin, wasn't he? Not only with the positions but the roles as well, the nindroid clearly set on taking the lead at the moment. Which Cole didn't mind at all, if it was the usual chase for sexual release and not… How Zane looked at him as if he were a divine being before him, one who can do no wrong. His head couldn't process it. He stayed silent and still as a statue, only being able to watch as blue eyes took him in, drinking every bit of his appearance as if dedicating it to memory. His Adam's apple bobbed as he swallowed, cold hands sliding up to his chest, his own taking ahold of one of them. And once more, he could only watch as Zane pulled his hand to his lips, pressing tender kisses to the damaged skin of his knuckles and his palm, showering him with love and affection which he didn't know how to react nor respond to. Not that he could, his voice seemed to have been taken away, just like his breath. As a bizarro, a creation of the shadows, he was never one to know softness. Even back when his main goal was to destroy Zane and his teammates, he knew only brute force and violence. And after that, when he and the others were brought back to this realm, things have stayed mostly the same. The only physical touch he was used to receiving was a punch to the shoulder from his own teammates, and even that was quite painful. So to be touched and looked upon in such a way… It was alien to him. He blinked as a small click registered in his ears, cold hands now resting at the base of his neck. The master of ice had leaned forward, looking down at where his hands were as Cole felt a tug go around his neck before it was gone, a surge of familiar warmth washing over him. His eyes widened as he watched Zane cupped the chain made out of vengestone in the palm of his hand, the key still in the small keyhole of the locking mechanism. “W…What are you doing?” Voice trembling, he watched in disbelief as he grabbed the attention of the boy above him, who, in spite of the insane thing he had just done, smiled down at him. “It was tugging at your skin. I want you to be fully comfortable during this.” The replay was so casual it made Cole even more puzzled. “Plus, I trust you. There's no need for such drastic measures anymore, is there…?” Red eyes were locked on blues as Zane slowly leaned over to the night stand beside his bed, the chain quietly clanking as it got rested on the wooden surface. Was he going crazy? With his super strength back, now he didn't know how well he could control himself, in such a situation at least. Not only from the foreign atmosphere, being the one to receive this much attention from his partner, but he has also never been this into someone before. And despite the risk of breaking a bone which came with other people, there was still a chance of him doing something to Zane which he didn't mean. But he trusted Cole. So he'll keep himself alert. “I guess not…” The hushed response seemed to please the nindroid as Cole was rewarded with another tender kiss, the friction between their hips returning, Zane's own hard on now evident against the bizarro's stomach. Trembling, he rested his hands on the ninja's waist once more when a hand slid down his bare chest to start playing around with the belt of his cargos. The buckle rang in his ears as the belt was soon undone, along with the zipper. His touch still hesitant, not to mention how scared he was to tighten his grip, he slid his hands up to the waistband of Zane's pants, pulling them down. Getting the message, the nindroid pulled Cole up with a hand on the back of his neck, the raven chasing after him to keep their lips locked as the two made quick work of the rest of their clothes. Now skin to skin, Cole's whole body grew goosebumps as a cold hand wrapped around his hardened length, breathy moan leaving his throat. Letting his own hands explore Zane's skin, he cradled the boy's chest, playing around with the soft skin while slim fingers stroked him almost agonizingly slow. Pulling back from the kiss, the raven moved to the crook of Zane's neck, pressing more open kisses against the surface of his skin before traveling down to his chest, earning a shiver from the boy on his lap as he traced his tongue over his nipple, teeth softly grazing the bud. His hands moved further to rest on pale legs, thumb brushing against Zane's inner thigh. Skin already growing sweaty from the heat his body radiated, Cole felt on cloud nine with Zane's hand skillfully working him up, thumb brushing over the head of his cock, spreading precum over the tip. A hiss passed through his teeth as something cold pressed against the underside of his dick, the grip of the nindroid now not as firm or present as before. Pulling his head back from the now pink skin of Zane's chest, he took a quick glance down, only to see the ninja had both of them in his hand, working the two up as those sweet breathy noises filled Cole's ears once more. Cursing under his breath, he closed his own hand around Zane's, his grip being able to take more surface with its size, as he stroked both of them to full hardness. Red eyes zeroed in on the ninja's expression, his brows knitted, cheeks flushed and eyes needy, staring at Cole's hand before lifting to meet his gaze. The air seemed heavier, colder from the low temperature coming off Zane's body. Just now did the bizarro notice small steam coming off him, which only made the nindroid look even more ethereal. His free hand moved to wrap around the ninja's neck, pulling him down into another slow but heated kiss. The pair's moans were muffled by their lips and tongues as Cole picked up the pace of his hand. The feeling of Zane's hips twitching forward, seeking more friction as he straddled him, not to mention the noises he made, were bound to get itched into the raven’s memory with how gorgeous they were. The chill against his skin only made it more exciting as Cole bit down on his now swollen bottom lip, earning himself a whine which his ears gladly drank up. Soon enough, giving one last tighter pump to their shafts, the raven retrieved his hand, breaking the kiss in the meantime. Using the time to catch his breath, Cole's gaze met Zane's once more, his face flushed soft blue, the only contrast being the visible hickeys and bite marks on his neck. “You're a sight to behold…” Cole's tone was quiet, huffing quietly as his now free hand carresed the blond's waist, the master of ice seeming slightly out of it. Fully focused on the boy before him still, Cole watched and compiled as icy fingers pushed at his chest once more, the mattress swallowing his frame. Despite the lack of closeness now, he was delighted by the sight of Zane on his lap, fully erect and tip leaking. The liquid itself looked to be familiar to his own, but he guessed it's some chemical substitute for it. Nonetheless, he didn't care. Not as he watched the master of ice reach for the night stand once more, opening the top drawer this time. The bizarro couldn't help his chuckle once the bottle of lube was retrieved. “How'd you know it's there?” Flustered, the nindroid's eyes widened slightly as he glanced at the bottle. “I guessed it would be in the top drawer.” “You're adorable.” Shaking his head, Cole let himself relax into the sheets as he watched the master of ice uncap the bottle and pour out some of the liquid on his fingers. “You gonna give me a show as well?” “You can do it yourself if you want.” Zane was quick to retort to the teasing bicker, only for his blush to reach his neck once he saw the smirk on the raven's face. At this point he didn't know which was more embarrassing, or more of a turn on. Let Cole watch him stretch himself or let Cole stretch him and probably tease him further. He was surprised enough that he was able to get this bold at all. Still, he felt his shoulders melt away the nerves as Cole's smile turned gentle, taking the bottle from his hand and sitting up again. “I've gotchu, Snowflake.” He cooed, voice softer than ever. Readjusting their position, Zane was now sitting up from Cole's lap, knees digging into the mattress to give the bizarro a better angle, the master of ice rested his hand on broad shoulders. The bottle of lube now discarded on the bed beside them, the raven places soft kisses to his stomach to ease his remaining nerves before his hand moved behind Zane's back. Even with his body adjusted to the cold, the liquid not bothering him whatsoever, the nindroid still shivered at the foreign contact as Cole's fingers softly started massaging at his muscles to help them relax before a finger slowly pushed inside him. Permanently short nails dug into the bizarro's shoulders, a shaky breath leaving his lips as he felt the boy below him press a few more reassuring kisses against his stomach going down to his navel. “You're doing great, just relax.” Cole's voice was soothing as soon enough his whole finger was inside the nindroid, thrusting the digit in and out at a slow pace so as to not hurt him while loosening him up. Soft whines of discomfort slowly melted into quiet breathing, his hold on Cole looser. Catching his gaze, Zane nodded, eyes squinting as he felt another finger be pushed into him accompanied by another trail of kisses on his skin. His breath hitched in his throat, eyes fluttering open as the blond glanced down, seeing the bizarro plant kisses to the underside of his shaft, causing his cock to twitch in interest. It felt almost overwhelming being pleasured from both sides, even with how minimal the action was. But with Zane's sexual history this was already a lot to take. Nonetheless, Cole stayed patient, stretching him out slowly so as to not make it uncomfortable or painful, relaxing the muscle as he thrusted his fingers, scissoring them every once in a while. A moan ripped from Zane's throat as he felt the fingers inside him curl upwards, hands shaking with how rough he was holding onto Cole, who was still shamelessly lapping at his dick, spreading his precum over the tip and pressing open mouth kisses to the sides of his length. Now that he had found the blond's prostate, the raven was set on getting more of those noises out of his lover. Curling his fingers with every thrust while servicing him with his mouth at the same time, the familiar curious taste of metal appeared on his tongue once more. A hand appeared in his hair, making Cole hum in content as he took the tip of Zane's dick in his mouth while pushing a third finger in at the same time. The hand gripped at the black lock pulled at them from the sudden step up. Fingers working quicker, the bizarro bobbed his head at a steady pace, enough to stimulate Zane's system and to take his mind off the unusual stretch until all he was able to hear was moans of pleasure from above him. Once he figured he was stretched enough, Cole let his fingers slowly pull out, his mouth pressing one more kiss to the tip of Zane's cock. Looking up at the nindroid, hands now at his thighs again, he wished he had a camera at arms length to be able to capture a picture of how pretty he looked like this. Once composed, to the best of his abilities at the moment, the master of ice was now a trembling flustered mess above him, and this was only from the prep work. Just the thought of how he'd look when Cole's fucking into him made his mind reel. “You with me, Snowflake?” At the whispered question the nindroid's gaze seemed to focus a little before a weak nod was given. “Words, baby.” “I'm- I'm here.” “Good boy.” The words appeared to have a positive effect on the blond, his cock twitching, making a smile appear on Cole's lips before he pressed another kiss on his stomach. Hands on Zane's hips, the bizarro initiated them to turn over but the hands on his shoulders pushed him back still. Looking up at the nindroid, a few seconds passed before he loosened his grip, the two just staring at each other. The switch ups between chasing the high and drinking in every moment were messing with Cole's head, and also his arousal, but he couldn't be bothered to complain when a cold hand nestled in his hair once more. By the look Zane gave him, it seemed like the bizarro was once more the center of attention, flustering him all over again. Talk about switching. And once again, when Zane's other hand slid from his shoulder to the side of his neck, the void of the chain's weight registered. “I can put the chain back on just in case.” He whispered, swallowing a little as his eyes searched blue ones. “I don't want to hurt you.” “You won't.” The response was so quiet he barely caught it. “How do you know that?” “I trust you.” This whole situation was taking so many turns it was sure to make his head hurt, but with the chain gone and his powers back he didn't know how well he could keep his super strength at bay. He knew how to, of course, but now? His throughs vanished once a chase kiss was pressed to his lips, taking deep breath in as he rested his eyes closed. A small force was given at his chest, to which he gladly complied, laying on the bed once more. When he opened his eyes again, he was met with Zane's frame hovering above him. His hands now by his sides, Cole wasn't sure what to do, his fear of doing harm to the nindroid returning once more. Taking his hands in his hold, the master of ice placed them on his hips, letting the bizarro touch him, as if giving reassurance. “Don't think about the chain.” “But, my powers-” “You won't hurt me, Cole.” A beat of silence followed, Zane's eyes just as comforting as the little smile he gave the raven before moving once more. Fixing up his posture and aligning himself with Cole's, the nindroid slowly started sitting down once more. A hiss escaped the master of earth as he felt Zane’s rear clench around the head of his cock, the nindroid tensing up above him from the additional stretch. Cole's own fingers trembled against the blond's hips as the coldness surrounded him, sending shivers and shots of pleasure down his spine. Once about halfway down, Zane's body seemed to relax as heavy breathing was heard above him, their hips meeting after a few slow seconds, the bizarro letting out a pleasured groan. Eyes fluttering open once more, he watched as the ninja seemed to be catching his breath, fog coming out of his mouth. His thighs trembled, still adjusting to the new penetration. The sight itself was such a turn on Cole feared he might need to think about random stuff to keep himself from finishing early. Rubbing soft circles over the boy's skin with his thumb, the bizarro himself was catching his breath, the tightness engulfing his cock almost mind blowing. It was mesmerizing how human like Zane's body was built. Just another thing for Cole to marvel over later on. “You okay?” It took a few seconds to get an answer, Zane's shoulders still a little stiff before he gave out a nod, followed by a verbal answer. “Yeah, just… overwhelmed, I guess?” “Why, thank you.” A hesitant chuckle rumbled through Cole's chest, earning himself a look from the nindroid, despite him smiling as well. Once the humor vanished Cole cupped his cheek, the coolness welcomed against his palm. “Take your time.” With the reassurance given, the nindroid let himself take a couple of minutes to get used to the stretch. Given he was only able to get a few glimpses of Cole's dick he had been positive he could take him, but he hadn't considered how big the stretch might be, even with the bizarro prepping him beforehand. Which was what got him here, legs trembling every once in a while as his internal fans worked harder to cool him down. But it seemed to be useless given his powers were quite responsive to his own arousal, something he hadn't considered as well. He had to make sure not to give Cole a frostbite by accident. Once the artificial muscles in his body seemed to relax he took a small breath in, squinting his eyes shut. Grinding back and forth to test the waters, Zane was soon ready enough as he raised himself on his knees until he was halfway empty, the air he took in escaping in a quick, shallow gasp when he sat back down. Cole's hands provided some form of support and guidance as he gradually found a nice pace, one that wouldn't leave him as sore after. Despite everything, the awkward feeling soon enough faded into something more pleasant, a feeling akin to ecstasy shooting through Zane's wires everytime their hips met. Cole himself looked beautiful as well, which only added to the moment. Hair sweaty and messy laid out on the sheets below, face flustered and eyes following every move the nindroid made causing shivers to run down his spine. Deep breaths and quiet sounds of pleasure filled the underground room, the ninja's movements gradually picking up pace as soon enough the sound of skin on skin ringed in his ears. His hands sat positioned on Cole's chest, closed in fists as he bounced on his cock, the raven himself barely holding back from bucking his hips up to meet Zane's. Everytime the nindroid would sit down in his lap, taking Cole's full length, it felt like he might pass out underneath him. The temperature, the tightness, not to mention Zane's addicting noises were getting him so high he might as well have been floating. Looking up through his eyelashes, crimson eyes drank in the image of the pretty nindroid eagerly riding him like it was the last thing he might ever do. Synthetic skin flushed and covered in hickeys and Cole's bitemarks, thighs trembling so sweetly he wished he was able to take a bite. Cursing under his breath, the bizarro felt his hips twitch upwards once more, the grip on Zane's waist tightening ever so little. “Shit, just like that, doing so well Snowflake.” The words were almost blabbering as he pushed his head further into the mattress, brows furrowed in pleasure as he felt the nindroid's walls spasmed around him. Heavy breathing exhaled from his lungs as he could barely keep himself from flipping the both of them around and fucking into the pretty nindroid. Fingers digging into Zane's sides, he had started unintentionally guiding the boy above him with his hands, the heat from his skin being cooled down from the icy feeling around his cock. Letting himself be moved, the master of ice used the opportunity to let his hands wonder and marvel at his partner. Leaning down his mouth started pressing tender yet passionate kisses to the scarred skin of Cole's chest before leading a trail up to his neck. Sucking on the skin, he felt the bizarro's fingers dig into his hips, pulling at the artificial flesh as his hips buckled upwards, earning a cry of pleasure from the ninja above. Frost covering some of Cole's hair, his cock twitching deep inside Zane at the beautiful noise, the raven felt like he might explode with every second he spent with the master of ice sitting on his dick, chasing his own climax. Not being able to take it any longer, his hands took a firm, but still mindful hold of the nindroid, flipping the two of them over. Giving out a small oof, the blond blinked his eyes up at Cole as the two caught their breath. Adjusting the two so he was comfortably kneeling between Zane's legs, one of Cole's hands rested against the bed beside his lover's head for support, the other one still resting on a slim waist. Once in position, eyes the color of scarlet kept their gaze on ocean blues as he slowly started thrusting into the master of ice, pace steadily picking up. Gods, was it possible for this guy to not look this celestial? Even being fucked into the sheet the nindroid seemed to only become more and more beautiful, hitching Cole's air in his throat. The look in his eyes alone was almost doing it for him, not to mention the rush of bliss when pale legs were wrapped around his hips, keeping him interlocked with the blond below. Leaning in, a desperate kiss was pressed against Zane's mouth, causing the nindroid to squirm as Cole's own lips swallowed every pretty noise he made when he'd thrust his whole length inside him. Letting his hand travel to rest at milky thighs, the master of earth did his best to try and find the right angle to- The kiss broke as Zane arched his back, a strained moan traveling up his throat, indicating Cole must've hit his prostate dead on. Keeping up his thrusts and the angle he was quick to push a pillow under the nindroid's hips. Once that was out of the way, fangs were latched into Zane's collarbones, only making his noises louder. The feeling of marking the ninja up like this, his teeth puncturing the skin at a surface level but deep enough to leave a visible mark, might as well be another addiction Cole has developed. He was always one to love marking up his partners but the freezing sensation that shot up through his fangs every time he bit down on Zane's flesh made it hard to keep his head in order. Licking over the new marks he felt cold hands move to his back, short nails digging into his skin instead of the sheets as previously done. “You sound so pretty, taking me do well, fuck you're amazing Snow.” The quiet praises hushed into Zane's ear only made him crawl at Cole's back harder, blunt teeth biting onto his shoulder. Letting out a shaky breath at the sensation, Cole picked up the pace, feeling his climax reaching as his nails dig into the cold skin of his partner. Lust clouding his mind, his ears could only listen as he kept his eyes closed, mouth busy painting more and more signs of his presence over Zane's skin, hands trembling- The noise of screeching metal broke the spell, the skin under Cole's fingers giving in as a hiss was heard from the nindroid. Immediately all movement stopped, much to the boys’ dismay, but his adrenalin was spiked. Pulling back, his eyes immediately shot to his hand. Releasing his hold on Zane's hips he saw small but visible dents under the surface of the skin, imprints of the accidentally harsh grip he had over him. “F-fuck, fuck , Zane I'm so sorry I didn't mean to do that i-,” “Hey,hey,hey,” Zane was quick to cut in, voice hushed and breathless as cold hands cradled Cole's face, pulling his gaze back up to meet his. “You didn’t hurt me, it's fine. It's just a few little bents, nothing unfixable.” “But,” Cole cut himself off, fighting the urge to look back down at the damage he's done, only Zane's hand stopping him. Swallowing thickly he continued, eyes stinging, “I don't, I don't want to ruin you by being careless.” “The fact that you react like this to such minor damage speaks enough to show you're not careless and you didn't do it on purpose.” Icy thumb brushed against his cheekbone as Zane held eye contact. It was truly mesmerizing how worried the bizarro could look and still be convinced he can only do wrong. One would guess it took the two to be in such a vulnerable state for Cole's true colors to show. Pulling him down by the neck, cold lips met warm ones in a sweet kiss as the tension in the raven's shoulders seemed to melt away even so slowly, hands hesitantly resting at Zane's stomach once more. Pulling back with a quiet smack of their lips, their gazes met once again. “You can't ruin me.” The words echoed in Cole mind, sure to get stuck with him for the rest of his life. All he knew was ruin, yet here Zane was, staring up at him, touching him as if he were a saint. If only he knew… Silenced, the bizarro could only comply as he was pulled into another sweet kiss, which slowly grew eager all over again, keeping its tenderness whatsoever. Grinding his hips down to meet Cole's, the two let out a pleased sigh, Zane's hands wrapped around his neck. Once the adrenalin had lowered in his body, calloused hands rested on Zane's hips once more, this time mindful of the force with which he held him, Cole moved again, his thrusts deep and slow. The pleasure filled hunger melted into something more vulnerable, innocent almost as the bizarro would ever so slightly pick up the pace once in a while, their lips never breaking apart. Hands now in his hair, tugging at the locks, all of the raven's worries seemed to have melted away, the only thing in his mind being the sensation of Zane around him, under him, on his lips, in his hair, all he could touch, feel, breath and think about was the nindroid which he was on top of. Zane's hips twitching, grinding down to chase more friction, was Cole's sign the ice elemental must be close. Using the last of his strength to hold back on his powers, he sped up his thrusts just a fraction, going as deep as he could. He himself was close to the finish line, but as previously said, all his thoughts were consumed by the nindroid and his pleasure at this point. Large hand wrapped around Zane's cock, causing the boy to tremble and moan under him as he started stroking him in pace with his thrusts, adding onto the pleasure as the kiss was now a sloppy mess of lips, tongue and teeth, Cole's own spit seeming to freeze at his lips. He didn't care, not when he was giving Zane exactly what he craved. Finally ending the kiss, the bizarro was quick to attach his mouth to the blond's neck once more, licking, sucking and biting onto the now freezing skin while picking up the pace of his hips and hand at the same time. Zane's breathing growing more labored and quick only encouraged him further until the ninja trashed under him, back arching as a sharp wail of bliss echoing in the raven's ears, the tug in his hair sharp and unyielding. Ice cold liquid covering his hand, Cole kept fucking into him, now chasing his own climax while his hand milked Zane of the last drop of cum. Only a few more thrusts were needed for the dark elemental to reach his peak, burying himself to the hilt into his partner as he filled him with his spent, the nindroid now trembling from the overstimulation of his insides. Hips gradually slowing down, the two were left panting as Cole's arm which balanced him was ready to give out from underneath him. Once he caught his breath, the bizarro lifted his gaze to look at Zane, all fucked out, internal fans now audable working overdue as his skin seemed to glisten with the frost that had appeared due to his powers’ reaction. It was now that the feeling of something cold and heavy weighed on the back of his head registered. Using his clean hand, Cole reached behind his head, only to come in contact with literal ice covering Zane's hands where he had been holding onto his hair. “Sorry.” The apology was muttered as the nindroid seemed to also notice the small issue. Cole only scoffed, smiling down at him in the most lovesick manner it made his core skip a beat. “Don't be.” Hand cupping the ice, a sharp grip from the dark elemental was what crushed the ice, which fell in small pieces down his back and over his shoulders to the sheets below, only frost left in his hair. Once his hands were free, Zane let them fall by his sides, closing his eyes to gather his thoughts. “I guess this was more intense than predicted.” “ ‘predicted'?” The teasing tone in Cole's voice returned as the nindroid opened his eyes, feeling warm breath hit his face. “You've thought about me naked? That's quite naughty, Snowflake.” Chuckling at the fake amusement and his teasing, Zane only lifted his hand to push Cole's bangs back, which did nothing given he was leaning over him. “I've been caught. What's my sentence?” “Aftercare, with no chance of parole.” “Oh dear, how will I manage to survive this?” “I know, I'm really lovey dovey after such amazing sex, you know.” The pair chuckled at the interaction, sharing one last kiss during which Cole slowly pulled out of Zane, leaving him sore and empty. Pulling back, a few kisses were pressed to the nindroid's face before Cole spoke again. “I'll get a towel to clean you up and I'll be back.” With that, Zane followed Cole's back as the raven got up from the bed, putting on a pair of boxers before walking into his room's bathroom. The room left ajar, Zane's brows furrowed at the other door which the room revealed. “What's that door for?” Walking back in the room, steaming towel in hand, Cole glanced behind himself as he figured out what the nindroid was asking about. “It's just a backdoor of sorts. To sneak out of whenever the others give me bullshit I don't wanna hear.” Explaining, the master of earth approached the bad. Nestling between Zane's legs once more he quickly looked up, winking at him playfully. “Come here often?” “I will throw a pillow at you.” The banter was a nice way to end such a high, a small laugh shared as Cole began cleaning Zane up, the nindroid flinching at first at the hot temperature of the towel. “How did you heat it up so quickly?” “I've got a towel warmer.” “One you possessed by illegal methods I assume?” “How did you know?” The fake surprise and the child-like grin on Cole's face made it hard for Zane to stay mad, only shaking his head. “You spoil yourself rotten don't you?” His eyes followed as Cole climbed over him again, the dirty towel now being discarded in the laundry bin by the bed. “I'm rotten to the core, Snowflake, might as well live in luxury.” Smiling, the two shared a few tender kisses, cold hands cradling Cole's face once more before he pulled back. “I'll grab some water and be back to smother you in attention.” “Okay. I'll put on some clothes in the meantime.” “ Awh .” The whine from the bizarro earned him another chuckle and a kiss, his smile returning quickly before he pushed himself off the bed. “Be right back.” Walking out of the room, Cole closed the door behind himself, letting the nindroid get dressed in peace as his bare feet walked down the hallway towards the kitchen, stretching his arms over his head. It was safe to say the sex had taken most of his energy and spent it but with his powers back he was quick to regain his stamina. Effortlessly jumping down the bedrooms’ level to the main living area, he turned to walk into the kitchen, only to stumble backwards. “ Fuck, will you ever stop looming in the shadows like some cliché.” Cole hissed the rhetorical question through teeth as he walked towards the fridge, grasping the handle. “As if I'd listen to orders from a lowlife.” Bizarro Zane's voice was just as cold as his ice, red colored irises following the raven. “Having quite the fun while we're gone, aren't you?” The edge in his voice was enough to put Cole on high alert, closing the fridge with a bottle of water in his hand now. “Yeah, what's that got to do with you?” “A lot actually, given you seem to be forgetting yourself.” “My memory is just fine, dipshit.” “Is it?” Pushing off the counter he was leaning on, the dark nindroid took a few steps closer, eyes burning into Cole's. “Because it seems to me you're missing quite a big chunk of your brain to even think of going this far with him .” “That was the plan from the start , you fucker.” Hissing through teeth, Cole did his best to keep his voice low for Zane not to hear from his bedroom, and to keep his own composure. If his Zane was back then Kai must be too. He kept that in mind. “What information have you gathered then?” Cole stood silent, glares exchanged between the two like bullets, the bottle in his hand ready to burst with the force with which he held onto it. He had to play something off, he couldn't let his teammates know he had officially told the plan to fuck off without second thought the moment Zane had taken the chain off his neck. “I need more time.” Zane scoffed in disgust. “You've got nothing. ” “I'm working on it.” “And what's stopping me or any of the others from going into that dump you call your room and tearing that piece of scap to bits? It'll save me the effort, the headache and I bet Jay would be pleased to have spare parts for his gadgets.” “ Bite me.” Taking a step closer, now right in Zane's face, Cole's voice was deadly as he hissed the challenge towards the nindroid, blood boiling at even the thought of anything happening to the blond. This, however, was a bad move to make. Reckless, as always. “I can't believe this.” Zane scoffed, eyebrows furrowing in pure disgust as his eyes scanned the anger evident on the raven's features. “I can't fucking believe this, you fucking imbecile . I never thought you could get more pathetic but here you are! Falling for him!? You do realize he's a nindroid, right?! Nothing but mere equipment !” His voice raised in volume, echoing off the walls, only edging Cole on, the bottle close to exploding in his hand. “One more word out of your mouth and I will tear you to bits.” And it wasn't an empty threat, only holding back because of the possibility the damage he does to him might affect his good counterpart. “Unlike you he chooses to not just be a fucking machine . Fuck, i dont even know how Kai stands you most of the time!” Zane’s eyes squinted, mouth twitching as he uttered, the air now below freezing as goosebumps covered Cole's skin. “Do not bring my connections into account.” “You wont even dare call him your boyfriend and you expect me to listen to you?!” “ Yes, because you're going out of line !” The power with which the words were yelled made the raven almost stumble. One thing the two ice elementals shared was their composure, but it was even more rare for his teammate to have an outburst. ‘Anger is a human's trait’ and all that bullshit. With that, Cole was left to listen as ice formed over Zane's hands. “This was your idea, your plan, and despite my better judgment I entrusted you to handle it as such! And what do you do?! Bring him to our hideout?! Fuck him?! YOU WERE SUPPOSED TO GET INTEL NOT LAID!” “If your stupid wire filled ears didn't hear me correctly, this was a part of the plan all along! Are you daft?! How about you worry about your own sex life instead of butting your sorry ass into mine!?” “What if he goes snooping around the base when u fall asleep?” Zane's voice turned quiet, gaze poisonous as the red light from his eyes shined over Cole's face. “What if he sends the location to his team, what if they find the fucking scroll, you were supposed to find something on them , not give them the chance of taking us out on a silver platter!” “ He won't do that.” “The same way all this shit didn't start on a lie because you wanted to take him out as well? Or were you just a desperate dog in heat?” The water in Cole's hands was now frozen, turned to ice and biting at his skin. “The only reason he's in your fucking bed right now is because you had ulterior motives and you know the moment he finds out you're all but forgotten and we'll all go back to that hell hole. And gods above help me not to kill you myself then.” The two now inches apart, the ground beneath Cole's feet trembled as he could see his breath form into fog when he exhaled, the anger finally getting the better of him. Shooting his head forward, he headbutted into hard metal. The nindroid stumbled a step back, hand on his forehead where a mark was slow to form. Breathing heavy, the raven glared at his teammate as their eyes met once more, a small dent in the panelling of Zane's forehead now apparent even in the dim lighting of the room as ice started crawling up his arm. “You know I'm right.” “ Screw you .” The curse dripped with venom, but didn't stop the blond from continuing, voice louder. “The moment he finds out that your main goal all along was to kill him and his friends and not to be his stupid boyfriend you're gone for good!” “If I kill you right now it won't affect him whatsoever and you know that. So quit being on my back and go find your own fucking ‘connection’. You're so stuck up that at this point even with Kai's dick up your ass it won't help.” Head whipping to the side, pain shot through Cole's jaw as his mind registered the blow. Quick to retort, the ground beneath his feet now to the point of shaking, his hand closed in a fist before it made impact with the nindroid's stomach. Zane's back met the edge of the counter but he did not falter, shooting dark ice towards his teammate, who dodged it just in time. In the meanwhile the dark ice elemental had shot forward, launching another punch to the raven who instead took hold of his wrist and threw him over his back. Once on the ground, the master of ice was quick to kick his feet up to meet Cole's stomach. Large hands grabbed at his ankles but his world spun as he found himself on the ground, Zane on top as a fist connected with his nose, breaking the bone. The two must've spent a good few minutes exchanging blows, blood and internal synthetic fluid covering Zane's shirt and Cole's skin and both their hands, before 2 pairs of arms appeared out of nowhere. One wrapping around Zane's torso, trying to pry him off the bloodied master of earth, while the other two were pulling at Cole's arms which were gripping at the blond's hair. “QUIT IT ALREADY!” With the words yelled out, the two were finally separated, Cole just now realizing there were frostbites covering his arms and the taste of iron in his mouth, blood dripping down his lips from his broken nose Now being able to catch his breath, the fog of the rage lifting off his vision, he registered that the rest of their team had been the one to intervene. Kai was now holding the nindroid back, whose face was by now distorted and red liquid akin to blood along with motor oil running down his forehead and lip. He guessed Jay was the one holding him down. “For fucks sake, we just got back and you two are already on each other's throats!” Kai huffed, clearly furious with the two. It was obvious it was mainly towards the master of earth for busting his precious boyfriend’s face apart. “Just as I was about to fall asleep as well. A little more and the whole tunnels would have collapsed.” Jay's voice was hissed, the serpentine, holding onto Cole with surprising strength. He looked more annoyed than frustrated for his sleep being ruined, the two of their teammates used to the master of earth and ice fighting over random shit. Jay's words finally registered in Cole's head. With his powers reacting to his anger he had unintentionally caused enough of an earthquake to make the tunnels shake. Not to mention the loud conflict which had unraveled minutes before. Shoving Jay's hands off himself he was quick on his feet, beelining for the tunnel he initially came from. He ignored the yelling from the other bizarros which came from behind him. He'll deal with them later. Once by his room he almost took the door off its hinges as he rushed inside. “Zane?” Breathing heavy, his voice was soaked in desperation, eyes frantically scanning around the empty room. “Zane- Snowflake I don't know what you heard but I can explain.”He knew it was useless even before he spoke, the white fabric of Zane's gi no longer on the bed, or the floor. Hurrying to the bathroom door he went to open it, only to find it locked. “Zane? Zane, open the door!” Giving it a few more tugs he soon took his hand off the handle, lungs burning with how much oxygen his system needed to stay calm. Only now did he realize it was dead silent on the other end, breeze coming from underneath the door towards his bare feet. Taking the handle in hand once more he gave it a sharp tug, the locking mechanism breaking in an instant. He was face to face with the darkness of a tunnel.
The front door of the Bounty opened quickly, startling the master of lightning who had stayed up late to play a video game and eventually take over patrol after Zane's shift was over. Turning to look behind the couch, a pair of uneven brows furrowed as said ninja's silhouette appeared in the dim hallway. “Zane? You're back early, is something-,” his words faltered as the TV's light shined over the blond's face, startling the boy on the couch who was now on high alert, standing up from the couch. “What happened?! Did you get in a fight?” The boy's face seemed puffy, his neck showing bruises going all the way down underneath his gi, which was uncharacteristically askew. The vibe coming off him itself was odd, the hairs on the back of Jay's neck standing up from the cold air which overtook the room. “Wake up the others.” The voice of the master of ice was so raspy it was as if he's been screaming, his eyes distant. “Why? Zane what's happening, you can't appear like this after patrol and not give any explanation!” The brunette's nerves blabber came into one ear and escaped out the other as Zane at last turned his head to the living room. Meeting Jay's gaze, the stare he gave seemed to have startled the blue ninja, all usual light from the blond's eyes gone. “I know where the bizarro's hideout is located.”
----- CHAPTER BREAK -----
“
Ouroboros
?! You mean
the
Ouroboros?! Where the
Great Devour
was locked up in?!
That
Ouroboros?!
” Jay's shocked, and loud, blabber only got a nod from the nindroid in response, the team now surrounding the control table on the upper deck of the Bounty.
All of the others were a bit bummed for being awakened in the middle of the night, but their frustration was quick to vanish after hearing about the news of the breakthrough their teammate had.
First to wake up was Kai, given he had always been a light sleeper, who had quickly caught on to the weight of the situation. Despite being grumpy he went to retrieve Nya as well, once he found out Zane would need repairs.
The blinding light of the screen didn't bother the nindroid at all as his gaze bore into it. Neither did the exact coordinates he had input in the system, now standing proudly before his eyes. They however, had little light left inside them anymore.
“There's underground tunnels leading to every place on the continent.” Zane's voice filled the quiet. "I have knowledge of two so far. One, leading to Ninjago City's downtown,” the one he was brought in from,”and the other near the desert.” and the one he used to flee.
“How'd you figure
that
out?” Kai's question stood in the air for a few, all eyes on the master of ice.
Despite Jay's initial worry about his teammate, he never got an answer as to where the bruises on his skin had come from. Nor did he find out what's gotten Zane to such a vacant state. It was as if he'd become a shell of himself over the few hours he’s been gone, voice more monotone than usual.
Too composed.
The rest of the ninja were quick to question him as well, once the rest of the slumber had melted away, but the news of the blond now knowing of the Bizarro's hideout was what got their minds quickly off the topic. At least for the time being. Maybe they'd believe it if he said he got into another fight with one of the clones and got trapped into a chokehold once more. Even if last time he had no such bruising after his initial altercation with
Bizarro
Cole.
The patches of painted skin themselves felt like burns on his receptors, their presence making him feel rusted. Don't even get him started on the imprints on his hips.
“It doesn't matter.”
“It does.” Cole retorted, their leader at last being done with the location on the screen as well with them circling around the elephant in the room. Focused on the well-being of their friend, he uncrossed his arms and took a step closer. “Zane, if you have such information you must've gotten in close to one of them. We are worried about you. As Jay said, you can't show up like
this
and not give us an explanation.”
“I do not wish to speak on the matter. We have the location, that's what's important.”
“Zane-”
“I
said
I do
not
wish to speak about it.” There was a bite to his word, one which none of them were used to, same with the unexpected interruption from the very same elemental master who always insisted they fully listen to each other. It only got the master of earth more worried but seeing how adamant Zane was, he backed up. He won't get anything out of him as hard as he'd try.
He couldn't even get him to look in his direction at the moment.
Silence followed, both sides unsure how to proceed from here with the tension filling the air. Jay himself had grown quiet, unusual for the talkative brunette, as he and Kai shared a worried glance. Nya was back at the workshop by now, probably setting up the stuff she guessed she would need to fix up Zane's disguise and the dents he mentioned he carried. He didn't specify where, but his teammates didn't dare to ask. He seemed all too eager to get the blue stains on his skin and any other damage gone as fast as possible.
“What about that scroll…?” The red ninja at last spoke, deciding to leave Zane be and continue on the topic of the mission at hand. It was obvious he wouldn't tell them what had happened on his patrol hours, nor what caused his state, both physical and mental, at the moment. Better not pour more gasoline in the fire.
Gray eyes left Cole's shadow on the floor at last as Zane turned back to the screen. “My clone mentioned something about it. With the tone of his voice I gathered it must contain some ancient spell or a ritual that had brought them back, or perhaps send them to the Shadow realm. Regardless, he seemed distressed by the idea of us finding it, so it must be important.”
“Wait, wait, wait. You went in?
Alone
?” The worry in Jay's voice, along with the confusion, stopped Zane for a second. He didn't mention how he got the intel on the scroll. His voice box seemed to work faster than his logic system.
He gave a nod nonetheless.
“I had to make sure it's not a trap.”
“What if it was?”
The words echoed in his head the moment they left Kai's lips. And by now he knew the answer. Even if too late. He had all but heard it by his own voice, even if he wasn’t the one to confirm the fears he had just eased himself of.
Pale fingers typed in new coordinates into the control table. “This is the entrance to the city.” He changed the topic. No one questioned him further as he pointed to a specific corner on the picture which appeared on the screen. ”There's a mechanism located approximately 1 and a half feet up towards the left corner here which opens an entryway leading to an underground level. Once you're in, there's another one on the left wall approximately 10 meters in.”
“So what's the plan? Stealth mission?”
“Affirmative.” Zane's gotten more stoic in his way of speaking as well. That also brought a sense of discomfort in the ninja around him. “It will be best if it's at a time where none of them are in or can't interfere. We can wait until the next attack they launch or-”
“Go in at night.” Cole finished for him, only getting a nod from the nindroid as he took a step back from the control panel. “We're not in condition to go now. We had little rest and you need repairs-”
“I'm not going.”
Silence, all eyes snapping back to the nindroid who had started making his exit from the room with no further explanation. Just now it seemed to settle in that he was speaking of the team as “you” instead of “we” the whole time.
Cole blinked, puzzled and obviously taken aback by such a statement coming from the blond. “What- What do you mean you're not going?”
“Just what I implied.” He stopped in his tracks right at the base of the steps leading to the under level of the ship.
“Zane, we'll be outnumbered, not to mention you were the one who had this information in the first place. You've gone in, you must know the layout.”
Jay nodded in agreement to Kai's words, turning to look at Zane’s back again. “Yeah! If the tunnels are connected to all of Ninjago it'll take us
hours
to-”
A ping echoed through the room, the team silenced by it looked at their communication devices. It was a decoded message. Pressing on it, they were brought to a navigation guide.
As for the part of the fight being unfair, it was true. They could barely keep up being in even numbers, but if Zane was gone that meant at least one of them had to face two of the opposing team at the same time. It was a stupid decision to make, but with what he heard he couldn't bear going back where his pride, body and his heart were stained.
“You do not need me. I would not be of any use.”
A frustrated sigh cut the air, heavy footsteps approaching the master of ice. When Cole spoke again, the tone of his voice was more firm, the sound of it itself making it hard for the nindroid to keep himself in check.
He kept needing to remind himself that's his teammate, not someone else.
“Zane, I don't know what's gotten into you but you're being reckless. Going to their base alone, leaving your post on patrol, returning here looking like
this
?
We're a team, if you don't share with us what's wrong we can't help you out-”
“Do you need me to tear off my own arm to get the message?”
The look he sent Cole's way as their eyes met made the master of earth falter. The fact that the master of ice was ready to physically cause himself harm so he won't be able to go on the mission sent chills down his spine.
Eyelids stood barely open, the skin of his face seemed puffier than usual, eyes distant as if he's seen horrors which no person could bear being a witness to. Like there were no longer any human traits inside him, only machinery left. Void.
It felt bizarre seeing the soft blue being drained off his irises, now only left in the same cold gray which his panelling was painted in.
“I'm not going.”
With that, the three ninja were left on the upper deck, baffled and confused as their friend's footsteps echoed out of earshot inside the ship.
This was a bad call. Terrible one, to say the least. He knew his friends, as much as they're capable in combat, would not have a fair chance of winning against their doppelgangers. Not to mention they won’t be in their usual surroundings. They’d be on enemy territory the moment the entrance of the tunnel in the city is closed behind their backs. This was a foolish decision to make, downright stupid, but as his hands tightened in fists he couldn’t bring himself to care. As much as he cared for his friends, one selfish side of him could not let him come face to face with what awaited him if he did
.
His feet felt heavier than usual, his posture not as perfect as it was. He hadn’t even processed the frost which had spread up his fingertips until he walked into the workshop, Nya’s eyes glancing towards his hands in worry.
“I apologize for waking you up at such a late hour.” Closing the door behind himself, the master of ice took a few not so silent steps towards the main part of the room. He wasn't in any condition to be stealthy. Not that he needed to at the moment.
“Don’t be, It’s not like I was asleep anyway.” There was an attempt at humor in Nya's tone, which was only responded to with a low hum from the ninja, who sat down on the edge of the metal bed he’d usually lay on during such sessions. His eyes were pointed to the ground as he felt warm fingers eventually pull at the collar of his gi enough to loosen it, before sliding down the tender skin of his neck. “Rough shift?”
The lack of answer seemed to get the raven to the conclusion he did not wish to speak whatsoever. Retrieving her hand, she turned to the table beside her, taking a hold of a few cables. “Do you mind-”
By the time Nya looked back at Zane he was shrugging off the top shirt of his gi, already knowing what she would’ve asked of him. Thin eyebrows furrowed, she walked around to face his back as she connected the cables to his harddrive. There was an unusual sense of heaviness coming from the nindroid but it was obvious he wouldn't talk about it. As much as he’d preach about the team sharing when something troubles one of them, he was never one to follow his own advice.
His database was quick to show up on the screen of Nya’s computer, the system starting an overall diagnosis.
The room was quiet, oddly enough given the past 2 months and the interactions the two would have. It was rare for Nya to be the one giving him repairs, usually it being Jay's job since both were male or identified as such so it won't be uncomfortable in any way. Not to mention the lightning's fixation on figuring out how Zane worked out of pure inventor's curiosity. Now It felt awkward, the only noise in the room being the buzzing of the computer and the wind finding its way inside from the cracks between the wooden floorboards.
Zane was unsure how to proceed with the situation. Or if he should say anything at all. It felt like if he tried to speak more than 3 sentences he'd break further, even if keeping silent made him feel like there was pressure threatening to burst.
He knew this would end in disaster. He had called it from the start, but this blinded part of him had taken over. He was being unreasonable, he
let himself
be unreasonable. And all of this for
what
?
What was he thinking? Falling for a criminal, fraternizing with the enemy? He had done so much more than fraternizing all in the name of false hope and unrealistic expectations and now he and his team may be paying the price. He should’ve known this wasn’t what it seemed, it was going too smoothly to be natural. There shouldn't even be something considered ‘natural’ with
that
Cole.
But despite his logic, his instincts lied to him, he had proceeded with this whole mess and here he was. Getting repaired for something he never thought he’d regret just hours prior while having sent his friends to a doomed mission. All because he was selfish.
The one time he was selfish and it ends in utter disaster.
Maybe his evil counterpart was right about some things. He was equipment and he should stay as such. He may ruin so much more if he continues trying to prove he's capable of being something more than just codes and wiring.
“Your system seems to be in check, your stamina is low as well as your serotonin levels. Your dopamine on the other hand...” Nya’s voice broke the silence. Eyes stripped of any light lifted off the floor as Zane glanced over the results of the analysis, though he only stared instead of reading any of it.
The silence was heavy, but as the girl sighed she decided to continue with the repair. There was time and place for such conversations. “There’s only minor damage on your artificial disguise and some of the panelling. Which one do you want to fix fi- ”
“Panelling.” He was quick to interject, Nya's attention back to him. He seemed more than adamant, at the edge of his seat to get fixed as soon as possible, as if he won't be able to breathe unless he's brought back to his normal state.
The dents in his hip felt like acid eating at the titanium with every second he spent having them.
Looking over the master of ice, Nya stood silent for a few minutes before nodding. “I'll grab some water...”
A few minutes later, there was a small pot of boiling water ready at the table beside Zane, who was undoing the bandages over his chest to get to the paneling. Kai's sister had a few seconds to look over his chest, which was covered in hickeys
and
bite marks. Her eyes rose to meet Zane's, though he was actively avoiding her gaze. More than usual.
She didn't need any more explanation when the waistband of his pants was pushed down enough to show obvious debts, imprint of fingers and a hand on his hips to give her an idea of what's happened. Her eyes softened, watching as Zane removed his synthetic camouflage and she grabbed a pair of screwdrivers to take off the metal plate.
The work was simple, hold the metal over the water until it softened so it can be popped back in place. Gloves covering her hands, Nya couldn't bear the deafening silence anymore as she rested her elbows on the table, holding the titanium plate over the steam.
“You okay…?”
Zane didn't answer, hands resting on his knees as they always did. His eyes seemed tired, yet focused on his now uncovered digits gripping the fabric of his pants. Nodding, Nya looked back at the metal. A few beats of quiet followed.
“How long…?”
The ice elemental hesitated, finally lifting his gaze to look at the raven. She wasn't looking at him, but she seemed calm, her body language the same as when they had their last talk in the kitchen. She did not look to be ready to bark at him, or scold him for his inappropriate actions, but as a way to help him calm down. Comfort him even. By the small squint of her eyes he could tell she was worried.
At last, he looked back down at the floor as he uttered a response. “Approximately 2 months.”
Nya hummed, turning over the panel so she could push a cloth on the inner side, one of the debts slowly returning to its smooth surface. “What happened?”
His system buzzed, still adjusting to the fact that he's about to share what's been going on with him. He knew Nya must've caught onto something, she was a highly intelligent individual. Still, he thought he might've been able to fool her, at least a little. And he might've been successful, but with the damage she was fixing… Even an idiot could guess what had went down.
So, he talked.
He told her about what happened after the mall. About his patrolling shifts being spent with the copy of their friend, their relationship, the vengestone chain. All the while all Nya did was listen and hum here and there, encouraging him that she was listening, as soon enough she was putting the panelling back in place, looking shiny and brand new from the steam of the pot.
“Did you talk to him after?”
“No. I left as soon as I heard the commotion was happening.” His voice was quiet, the feeling of the metal plate being screwed back in place a small sensation on the right side of his hips. “It wouldn't have ended well if I had stayed anyway. Not that the situation now is a good outcome.”
“Has he tried reaching you?”
“Falcon's been following me the whole way back, chirping in my ear. I deactivated him the moment I got to the ship.”
Nya blinked, looking up at her friend as the last screw was securely in place. The coldness of the blond's demeanor was gone, now the look of pure shame and devastation evident on his features. He looked broken beyond belief, even as he tried to keep himself composed.
And she understood why. He's let his guard down, handed over his trust, his own body willingly. Only to find out he's been actively playing a part in a scheme. He's been toyed around with by the very person he knew he shouldn't trust but did, despite his better judgment.
And with the knowledge of his background, this was the first heartbreak he might've experienced as far as Nya knew. To have it come crashing down like this…
Sitting up from the stool she had been on to fix his side, her hand rested on a cold shoulder, catching Zane's attention. Staying quiet for just a few, reading the room, she leaned in, wrapping her arms around his neck as she embraced him, despite the cold metal against her bare arms.
It had taken the nindroid aback, not expecting such a reaction to the information he just gave her. Had it been someone else it might've ended up in a fight, but Nya only offered him comfort. One which he greatly needed, even if he won't admit it aloud.
Slowly, his arms lifted as he hugged her back, his face buried in the crook of her neck. A gentle squeeze was felt around his neck to which he just tightened his grip around her waist in response.
“I'm sorry.”
“Don't be. You've done nothing wrong.”
“You know that's not true.”
“Zane, listen to me.” Pulling back, Zane's hands fell in his lap while Nya's stood firm on his shoulders, a few strands of her hair falling from the ponytail she had her bob in. “You didn't know.”
“I had suspicious. It was logical for there to be an ulterior motive, but i was being-”
“
You
did
nothing
wrong, Zane.” Nya interrupted him, her gaze like stone as she continued. “You have no experience in such situations. You were trying something new, you were curious and you got attached. There's nothing wrong with being human, that's a part of our nature.”
“I am not human, however.”
“You're more human than any of us. We may have real flesh on our bones but that does not mean all of us have the same humanity. You know what's right and wrong, you know what you feel, and you learn from your mistakes. And I will
not
sit here and listen to you talk down on yourself because of a slip up.”
One hand left his shoulder, a finger pressed to his chest. Glancing down at her hand, Zane continued listening. He had no idea what else to say. It felt like any word he uttered would be the wrong one.
“You're one of the most caring and compassionate people I know. You take care of us even when you don't have to because you
care
. You're not just bolts and metal. I may never understand how your system works, maybe no one ever will except Dr. Julien. But I know that your father did a
damn good job
at creating you if he's made you flawed.”
“Even machinery can be faulty, Nya. That does not make me a real person.”
“Can machinery fall in love?”
Silence.
Looking back at her, Zane's system seemed to kick back in at the words.
No, that… That wasn't what this was.
He got attached, sure. He got… intimate with him, he liked his company, as hard as it would've been to believe a few months ago…
He'd miss his face, the small touches. The bantering or the first glances from across the city's horizon when Cole would appear that sent electricity through his wires.. He did feel joyful back when the tension had melted into something soft. Something he wasn't akin to. And he'd miss this. The realization that he may never experience the calmness he did when the pair would just sit and talk, may never hear that nickname, spoken with such affection behind it. It broke him.
But there's no way that's what love was.
“I doubt that's what this was, Nya.”
“I don't. It may not have ended pretty, but gods know I also would've been this wrecked if I was in your shoes. I was… to a point.”
Zane took a few seconds to read her face, her eyes off to the side as if she had gone somewhere else for a second. It piqued his curiosity, however, the look vanished just as quickly as it had appeared.
“But that's not about me. I don't know how you process emotions, and I'm certainly not telling you
what
you feel, but I can spot the look of someone's heart being broken from a mile away, even if it's an artificial one.”
With that being said, all Nya did was to give Zane one last squeeze on his shoulder and a soft look before pulling away to remove the pot of now lukewarm water. Her footsteps echoed in the room as she exited the workshop, the door clicking shut behind her.
This was information to process for sure. At this point the master of ice felt like he might need a reload to handle all of it.
To a certain point she
was
correct. A machine wasn't capable of handling complex human emotions, yet he had an idea of what they were and could recognize them. He knew he was attached to his teammates, he's spent almost over a year with them. He liked things which they didn't, he disliked things which they did or were fond of. But nevertheless he loved them, as different as they were.
But that was platonic. Platonic and romantic attachments were two different things. Even if he had been intimate with…
him
, he didn't expect it to happen at all.
It just
did
.
It felt right, it felt
good
but a lot of people have one night stands and this must've been all that this was. As Nya said he's just been curious to explore this aspect of life and it wasn't a wrong guess.
Yet as he thought deeper on the matter the feeling in his chest returned. That hollow, numb pain which he couldn't register the origin of. But his mind was quick to register the cause. He may not know what love feels like, but at least some of his logic was finally coming back.
To be with him like this just once and never again. Not only the sex but
them
as a whole. It was a sense of something new, the excitement coming from this experience. And Cole's words as well. That he enjoyed the rush of doing something you shouldn't. And now that all of this was over, and soon it'll be like it never happened…
He shook his head.
This was not the time to mope around, even if all he was dying to do was to collapse in the comfort of his bed and never walk out again. The bizarros knew that Zane had their location and he'd share it with his teammates, along with the knowledge of the scroll, as little as it was. He must go see Wu about the matter. Maybe he'd know more about the parchment.
They were all but about to get into yet another fight. The clones knew their whereabouts, and even if they didn't Cole knew.
Zane's eyes shut as he tried to not think intensely on him.
Even if what he felt towards him
was
indeed love, it was all but shoved in his face that he was nothing but a pawn in the raven's games. One which was meant to be taken out the moment he wasn't of any use to him anymore. He shouldn't be sad about this, he wasn't worth being melancholic over.
He felt ignorant for thinking that just because they weren't directly tied to Garmadon anymore meant they could be something else, something more than wicked. He was all but playing pretend to earn his trust and get under his skin so he can get what he wants. Which he got. He got a lot more than what he might've wanted.
And instead of sorrow Zane should feel anger for being played on a string like a doll but as tears gathered in his eyes he was quick to swipe them away. This Cole wasn't worth crying over either, as hard as it was not to crumble down.
The amount of different emotions his system was registering and trying to process was overwhelming, so much so that he didn't know what to do, neither did his powers. One moment he'd feel this aching pain in his core, his vision becoming frosted, only for him to feel the need to train restlessly for hours upon hours on end to take out his anger as ice formed over the metal bed he sat on. His mind was a mess, repeating the conversations on the rooftops and the confrontation he overheard not even 2 hours ago on loop like a broken record which he all but wished to smash to pieces.
The room had grown colder, and he might've registered that fact had his synthetic camouflage been on. But with no skin to feel the cold, he let it surround him as his fingers desperately tore into his eyes to break away the tears which had frozen over them and his cheeks. At this point the blue light of his irises was flickering on and off as he muttered nonsense to himself. Why was all of this happening?
This did not compute.
His vision blurry, he finally let his hands fall to his chest, clawing at the paneling until he was able to open it up, not even hissing at the shot of physical pain sent through his receptors as he touched around the insides of his working.
Finally finding the small wheel on his inner control panel, his fingers trembled as he was choking for air which he did not need but felt like he'd die without. Grasping at it at last, he turned it all the way to the right.
Taking a few seconds to gather himself, the blue light died down once more. A few deep breaths in and out, the shaking stopped as he straightened his back. Fingers leaving the emotion meter in his chest, now pointing all the way to zero, he let his hands break apart the small glacial remains of his sadness which had covered most of his face, letting them fall to the ground.
He was acting illogical. He was not supposed to feel like this whatsoever, his system going against its own boundaries and rules to make him feel all this while he had turned his emotions down to barely 20%. He couldn't imagine how much of a wreck he might've been if he hadn't enabled them in the first place.
Closing the paneling of his chest, Zane didn't give a reaction whatsoever as the door to the workshop opened once more.
“My apologies, Nya, but I think I may need more repairs than just the camouflage.” It felt odd hearing his own voice stripped of any feeling, but if that's what it took to keep himself in line, then he'd have to get used to it for the time being.
His eyes trembled for just a second, bare back facing the door, as his ears registered heavy footsteps coming down the few steps from the entrance to the floor of the workshop.
“I uh… I'm not really the mechanical type, Snow.”
At the sound of Cole's voice finally cutting through the air, Zane was quick to get all his senses kicking in, ready for anything that might go down from this point on.
“Where's Nya?” The echoing of the boots finally came to a halt, from his analysis the bizarro now standing just a few meters away. Three, maybe four.
“Zane-”
“I asked you a question.” If Cole had appeared minutes prior he might've acknowledged, or cared, about how quiet the bizarro's tone was. But he didn't. So, Zane stood his ground. He was not his companion anymore, but an enemy. He's always been just that even when the mirage of them being something more was clouding his judgment.
At last, guessing by the sigh heard from behind him, Cole must've given in as he spoke once more. “She's fine. I didn't do anything just- I want to talk.”
“I do not wish to converse with you.”
“Snow, please.”
“And I do
not
want to hear that name uttered from you anymore.”
"Okay, okay I'm sorry! Just hear me out. That's all I'm asking of you, just…” The bizarro's cut himself off, probably thinking of what to say that might get the nindroid to listen to him. “5 minutes. That's all I want, and then I'm gone.”
An ultimatum. Cole was never one for boundaries or time limits. But then again this Cole wasn't the loving type either.
He should send him off. Or better yet attack him while he's here. The rest of the bizarros might not care that much if he's taken hostage, but it's worth the shot. That way maybe they could relocate them out of their base so the rest of Zane's teammates can go in their base and find that godsforsaken scroll-
His brows furrowed as Nya's words echoed in his head once more, reminded of the conversation they had while she was fixing the physical damage the dark elemental had caused him.
Once again, as fog came out of his mouth when he exhaled, the master of ice knew he was going against his logic yelling at him. And sure to regret it later…
“You have 5 minutes.”
Zane agreed.
----- CHAPTER BREAK -----
Cole’s feet felt like giving in the moment he had stepped out of the tunnel which his room led to. The moment he registered that Zane had heard everything and had fled, not giving the bizarro a chance at explaining, he had been quick on his feet, putting his clothes as fast as humanly possible and taking off. He did not feel like coming back out to go to his bike and take his previous route, his team still in the main hall. His shirt was put on backwards and inside out, one of his boots was half zipped up and he was missing a sock but he could not give less of a fuck as he sprinted all the way down the tunnel, then from downtown Ninjago to the harbor. It might’ve been the adrenaline, or maybe his powers kicking in, what helped him run that fast. Whatever the case, the moment he stepped foot on the bounty he felt like he was on the brink of collapse, only his fear and its kick keeping him standing. It was stupid showing up like this when most of the ninja might be up, but thankfully from the lack of noise he figured everyone was asleep. Maybe one of them on patrol in the city. Doing his best to keep quiet, Cole stepped inside the ship, remembering the layout mainly from the distant memory of Garmadon’s clone vessel. It was a pathetic attempt but with the panic settling at home in his chest he couldn't get his head on straight, nor his usual skills. His hands were shaking by his side as his eyes looked over every inch of every room he went to before stepping in. Half on the ready to engage in a fight if needed, and half hoping to see the nindroid he had come looking for. Sadly, just as he was about to walk down the hallway, in the rush of finding the blond, he had forgotten to check one corner which hid a bit of space in the kitchen from view from where he was standing. So as he walked down to the middle of the room he got scared out of his skin when a voice carried through the air. “You’re quite loud for a ninja. I could hear you breathing from 2 rooms over.” Turning to face the kitchen, Cole came face to face with Nya, who sat leaning on the kitchen counter, arms crossed with a pot of water beside her. She seemed to have woken up around 30 minutes ago, the bags under her eyes starting to come to light, along with her messy hair and attire. Cole's ears were ringing, not to mention his heart felt like beating out of his chest now that he got caught. The anxiety must’ve made him quite the opposite of the stealthy he aimed for. Swallowing, he adjusted on his feet and pulled his hands up in front of himself. “I’m not here to-” “I know.” The calmness in her voice took him by surprise, staring as Nya’s eyes skipped over his face. “Plus you seem to have taken enough of a beating.” Staying still, the bizarro could only blink a few times before lifting his hand up to his face, touching the space under his nose as he felt dried blood on his skin, a small spark of pain shooting through his skull. He shook it off, he’ll think about this later. “Where’s Zane?” “Depends on what your intentions are. Judging by his state and what he told me, you’re the last person he’d want to see at the moment.” The girl’s face turned surprisingly cold, shooting daggers into the taller raven with her gaze alone. ‘By his state’... Fuck, he must be a wreck after what had went down, especially after they had gotten intimate to such a level. He was not in condition to handle such information, even if he was a nindroid. Of fucking course Zane’s copy couldn’t find a better time to turn this whole mess into a dumpsterfire. Not that it wasn’t going to happen at some point but they could've been more prepared. Hands turned to fists by his side. “Look, I know this whole situation is not ideal, I did not wish for it to go like this either, what he heard is- It’s the truth, was the truth, this is not, I know it’s hard to believe but I’m just here to talk. I want nothing else.” His voice didn’t sound like his own with how quiet and shaky it was, cutting himself off in the middle of a sentence. He was never one to be vulnerable, but the idea of losing Zane? Like this nonetheless? “I can’t let him leave thinking I never…” The words seemed caught up in his throat, threatening to spill out and choke him at the same time. He couldn’t bring himself to utter the truth that he knew by heart, as hard as he wished to. Fuck, he must be pathetic. Looking like a kicked dog, all beaten up and desperately trying to go back to the comfort he once knew. Or was beginning to get familiar with before it was ripped out of his grasp. “Please…” Her gaze seemed to soften at the tone Cole spoke in, still zeroed in on the supposed enemy before her. It was hard believing this to be a coldhearted criminal standing just meters away. He seemed just as devastated as her own teammate, the shaking of his fingers and the messed up state he was in, both regarding emotional and physical. Just the idea of this scenario now playing out before their eyes seemed to have gutted him alive. Silence, only Cole’s slowly evening out breathing registered in the air followed the plea. With every second of the clock ticking by, his hope seemed to only glow dimmer but his determination held its ground. The more he stood under Nya’s firm gaze, the more filthy he grew to feel. He has never done one thing right in his life. He had ruined, terrorized and hurt everything that came his way, but the sheer thought of breaking Zane. Now that it was a reality it made everything else seem like a sting. Barely a scratch on his skin. “He’s in the workshop.” Nya was quiet as she spoke, finally leaning off the counter and turning to pour out the water from the pot. “Do not make me regret letting you walk off like this.” A weight seemed to have been dropped from his shoulders, watching the girl turn her back to him, returning to her domestic choir. Letting him go. “I won’t.” “Then go.”
Now that he was here he didn’t know what to say, or what he should say first . Zane stood with his back to him, giving him a view of the mechanisms and panels which he had no clue how they worked. His hair, at least from this angle, seemed messier than usual. The voice in which his- in which he spoke to Cole itself felt too cold. Too akin to the bizarre version he fought earlier. But he had 5 minutes. He was not about to waste them. “I’m sorry.” His words were quiet, yet seemed to echo through the room. “I, look, I know this may mean shit at this point but it’s true. What you heard back there it’s, it’s not false but it’s not the whole truth either!” “What is the whole truth then?” The bite in Zane’s voice pained him the more he heard it. Not that it wasn’t deserved. “I, fuck, I ditched that plan! Sure, it was what got us here but it is not what I want for us, Zane. What my- what that Zane spoke of, I can’t measure how much I regret going along with this, but had I known it would end up this way I would’ve never gone through with it, never even considered the plan an option!” “Then why are you here?” Shit that came out wrong. The weight of the conversation was not something Cole was used to handling, it was making him mix and regret his words. “No, shit , I'd never regret having this - that’s not what I meant!” “Then what did you mean? Be more specific.” “Will you at least look at me first?!” Cole’s tone was way too loud, ricocheting off the walls, sure to wake up anyone in the vicinity but he could not bring this matter to an important value right now. Zane’s form stayed still, as if frozen in time, the raven’s desperation growing with every breath he took. His chest felt tight, his lungs were burning and the dull pain from his broken nose was making his head pulse. His legs were as if made out of led, his mind both quiet and way too loud, trying to come up with words to speak of the anguish shooting through his body the longer Zane’s gaze voided his. Though, as the nindroid at last turned to face him, the view itself was mortifying. To Cole at least. The hairs on the back of his neck stood up the moment those gray eyes fell upon him. This looked wrong, it felt wrong. All the color of his iced gaze was now gone, leaving the bizarro staring at nothing but ash . How fitting. Zane himself seemed to be at least a little taken aback from the view of his once lover, all beaten up, dried, brown blood covering his face, along with bruises, and clear, undeniable distress radiating off of him. He's never seen him look so… He couldn't even find the words to describe it, but this was not the Cole he knew. If he really existed to begin with. Whatever the case, his expression stayed the same. Calm, numb, void of any emotions. Cole didn't deserve any of them. “What happened to you?” Cole shook his head, “It's not, who cares what happened to me, what about you ?” “You did.” The words felt like bullets through his skin and needles being swallowed as the bizarro felt them being burned into his skin. Why would he ask such a stupid question when he knew the answer, he was it after all. Taking a step closer his eyes stayed locked on Zane's, afraid that if he looked away any hope of the nindroid he grew familiar with might vanish, for good this time. Now standing just a couple of inches from the table, face twisted in sorrow, he came close enough to see Zane had Nya erase the dents he created on his hips. It was a relief to know it was easily fixable but that meant he had to erase any trace of Cole from his life. Even with the small distance between them there was still a gashing reef of his own creation. “Don't touch me.” Zane's voice cut in the air, snapping the raven out of it to see he had lifted his hand, fingers itching to touch where he had left his mark behind on the blond's neck, even if the synthetic camouflage was off. Strings tugging at his heart, Cole retrieved his hand. “If you're going to talk, do so. I do not wish to be in your vicinity longer than needed.” Avoiding the raven's gaze now, Zane at last stood up from the table, grabbing his discarded clothes from beside him. The bizarro's heart skipped a beat, the anxiety rush returning from the fact his time was running out. He walked around the table to be on Zane's side. “Zane, please, you need to believe me, I never meant for you to find out this way.” “What, you were waiting to get enough information out of me before telling me? Or maybe taunt me into realizing it myself?” “No! I, It's a complicated situation, I didn't know how to tell you, I- I didn't want to make you believe this was all I wanted from you!” “The intercorse must've been a part of the plan as well then.” The words were spoken colder than before as Cole watched the ninja shove his hand into the sleeve of his gi. Fuck ! Why was he so bad at words?! The one time he was going to be fully genuine, to try and explain what his feelings were, and he was absolutely, total shit! “It wasn't! Zane, you have to listen to me, the moment you took that chain off my neck I had forgotten all about the plan! I have, I have been wanting to ditch it for weeks but-” “Then why didn't you?” At last, Zane turned so they're face to face again, eyes burning into Cole's as he did his fucking best to try and come up with a proper fucking answer! He knew what he wanted to say but no matter how he would word it it was going to come out wrong because everything he has done so far was just this! Fucking wrong! “If you have not wished to proceed with the plan any longer you could've told me about it, instead of waiting for me to find out on my own.” “When was I supposed to tell you?! When we talk on your patrol hours? The one time I can see you in peace and not be expected to fight you?! Or when you ditched me for a whole month and did not say shit?!” This was bad. He had no idea how to process such intense feelings other than anger. He had always come back to that, no matter how small or big the issue he had was. But he wasn't angry with Zane, he could never be angry with him, he shouldn't be taking his frustration with himself out on him but his mind was such a mess he had no clue what to do. He was only digging himself a bigger grave and he was unable to let go of the shovel. “If you came here to make me out to be the bad guy I am not listening. Leave.” “Fuck, no, Zane-” He felt his gut drop in his stomach and to his feet, which refused to move whatsoever as Zane tied the belt around his waist and moved to walk past him. The sudden drops between anger and eagerness were messing with his head. “I do not want to hear it. I should've never fallen for your schemes in the first place, let alone let you attempt to explain.” “I was never scheming against you!” “Weren't you?” A spark of anger flashed behind Zane's eyes as he turned on his heels, face to face with Cole, letting him drink in the view of his consequences. “Did you not lie to my face and play with my trust like some sick game? You tricked me into an affair with the only motive and outcome you were aiming for being getting intel on me and my team which would help you take us out. The only reason you're here right now might as well be another trick.” “It's not! I swear on my life I've never wanted things to go this way!” The more they spoke the more shaky Cole got, eyes frantic as he was trying to find maybe a glimpse of trust behind those empty eyes staring at him, even if he knew he shattered it before even earning it, from the moment he had appeared on his surveillance hours 2 months ago. “Well, they are. You cannot change the outcome nor my mind on the matter.” “Zane!” The desperate calling of his name did not seem to make the ice elemental falter, his footsteps like gunshots in Cole's ears. No,no,no,no. “Leave, otherwise I will wake and alert the others of your presence.” “You said you'd listen to me! This is not, you've just been twisting my words the whole time, you're not listening to me! ” Gods, his voice was betraying him, cracking up, the air not enough in his lungs. “You did not wish for things to come out this way, neither did I. But unlike you I did not have any ulterior motives, nor wished you harm.” “I never wanted to get you hurt!” “This was exactly the outcome you expected the moment you decided to go with this plan.” Zane was by the steps already. A few more seconds and he'd be out that door and out of Cole's life like he was never there, but Cole will know, oh he'll know and he'll remember and he'll regret it for the rest of his probably shortened life if he does not get him to stay. All he was able to do was a pathetic attempt at redemption which was initiated far too late. “That was before , will you please stay and listen to me?!” “I have heard enough from you.” His hand was on the handle, he was about to walk away. From the room, from Cole, from this mess that Cole was responsible for because he could never do one thing right, he never thought things through, the one time he had something nice in his life and he had to go and ruin it . His blood felt like it was rushing to his head way too fast, he was getting lightheaded. The air wasn't enough, and it wasn't clear, it felt damp, it was not the right amount or the right consistency, his hands were trembling, his feet felt wobbly yet like cobblestone, the ground beneath the ship itself gave a little tremble as his powers were becoming unstable. Watching Zane's back his vision was becoming blurry, his psyche seemed to be cracking and he felt like he was choking, his heart was racing and his chest ached , the lump in his throat would not budge-
“ I love you!”
The door stayed shut. The air was damp and cold and all the two were able to hear was the quiet. Zane was still here. He was here, his back was facing Cole but he was here . Shaky lips parted to speak once more as he could not hold his words back anymore. “I love you. I can't, I can't deny it any more, I don't want to deny it. I don't know why I was trying to but it's true, it was a lost cause from the start and I don't know what to do about it! I'm not familiar with this, until a month ago I didn't even know I can be anything other than cocky and, and evil, and psychotic and it's been messing with my head!” Taking a step closer, the bizarro's voice was more loud, more desperate than ever before as his eyes seemed to be glued to the fabric on Zane's back. “I can't do anything right, I don't know how to, but I know I do not want to lose you without trying to fight for you! You're the one good thing that's happened to me ever since I've been brought here and I destroyed it all because I don't know what to do and I'm sorry !” “I'm made this way, I'm flawed, I'm mad, I'm rotten and crooked and it's selfish to want to keep you, have you keep me , but I do! I've been, I've been good, I've tried to be good, because the mere thought of not having you around is making me sick !” The more he spoke the more pathetic he felt, but once the clog that seemed to bkeeping his words back washed away he couldn't stop. And frankly, if Zane was staying to listen to him, he didn't care. He would make a total fool and a joke out of himself if it meant it would work, the weight on his chest slowly melting away with every wobbly, broken word that was uttered. “And then back, back at the hideout, and the rooftop, I couldn't hold back the truth from myself! You're everything I'm not, you complete me in a way I didn't know I need to be, and the thought of telling you the truth terrified me! you’re the first person to show me what warmth feels like and I was scared I'll get burned.” The rush became slow as the volume of the words faltered, his hands and the ground under his feet calm at last. His body felt tired and heavy but the burden of holding back was no longer an issue, letting him breathe. Red eyes stood focused on the person before him. He couldn't see his reaction, nor predict it, but, once again going against his pride, he made a move after feeling like his feet were nailed to the floor this whole time. His boots shuffled over the ash on the ground as he lowered himself, his knees digging into the cold floorboards which gave in beneath his weight. At the noise of his movement, Zane must've at last been released from his shock. The small rustling of the door handle made Cole's confidence falter for just a blink before it became clear the ice elemental had let go of it to turn and face him. The look on his face was softer now. His gaze was still void of any color but at least the bizarro didn't feel any of the previous chills that would go down his back. Swallowing his nerves one last time, his hand moved inside the pocket of his jacket, taking out the chain of vengestone which the boy before him had taken off just hours prior. The warmth of his powers felt almost foreign to him now. It felt wrong being full after he had been drained for so long. His throat felt dry as he parted his lips to speak. “I am at your mercy. Do whatever you wish. Punch me, kick me, ice me, chain me in vengestone. Tell me to leave and I will, you'll never see me again. Anything, do anything as long as it's something that will give me an answer to what you're thinking of me. Break my jaw for lying to you, shatter my bones for touching you so carelessly, rip away my ribs and tear away my heart, it is yours, it's been yours before I even knew one belonged to something such as myself!” His voice became more and more desperate with every sentence, breathing shaky as his heart was now spilled out on the floor at Zane's feet. He let him choose whether to pick it up and be gentle or stomp on it and let him feel the pain he knows he deserves. As much as he'd wish for the blond to cleanse him from his sorrows he knew the latter was the most likely outcome. Had he been Zane he'd not hesitate to avenge himself. The utter hatred he felt towards himself was so strong he was not sure how he could have the guts to come and ask for forgiveness after everything he has done. Yet here he was. Because he may be many things but a quitter was never one of them. If the master of ice chose to leave, so be it. But he would not lay a finger on him in the upcoming battle, even if it meant getting killed by the hands which showed him what softness was. The way he burned for him was too strong, more fierce than the fires of his desire for destruction. His heart felt like it was about to shoot out of his chest, yet as if his pulse had stopped all together. The seconds were stretching into minutes, and Zane's expression stayed the same, numb, empty. But his gaze felt more gentle to be under. “Zane, please.” The silence was killing him. He could not bear it any longer, the more it went on for the more he felt like he'd never get an answer, never be at peace with himself. He wanted, needed to know. If he doesn't he'll go mad, living in constant what ifs. His eyes followed as the white ninja made a move, just a few short steps closer until he was right in front of him. Cole's skin felt like burning, the wish to reach out and never let go of the nindroid eating at his bones but he made no move. He's done enough damage already, he could not imagine the guilt of doing something else. What caught his attention was when he heard quiet ticking as Zane had stepped closer. It was a faint, almost mute sound but it was there. The buzzing of electricity sounding along, Cole's eyes quickly skipped around the blond's face, swallowing as the faint flicker of blue seemed to appear in his eyes. “Zane?” The name was barely whispered, worry and yearning in the depths of his voice was the raven mentally restrained himself of any movement. He was scared that if he as much as says his name louder this will go down in flames, a burning inferno as opposed to the small fire he created. His muscles spasmed and frame jumped, startled as he watched the nindroid before him grasp at his own shirt, tugging his gi loose. His hands were shaking as he was trying to rip the clothing off, bringing Cole on high alert. The sound of fans grew louder, the flickering of the blue lights becoming more frantic, blinding. Clear liquid akin to tears started pouring down Zane's face as if a pipe had burst. Jumping into action, he was quick to catch the master of ice as he crumbled to the floor. Hands firmly on his elbows before the weight of Zane's head was felt against the crook of his neck, the bizarro's senses were on high alert. His whole body was violently shaking and twitching, only leading to Cole's worry growing. “Zane? Snow, what's wrong? Zane!?” A shocked gasp sound under him, titanium hands clawing at Zane's exposed chest. His whole body was shaking so violently it seemed like his system was glitching, the smell of something burned hitting his nose. “Fuck, fuck, fuck, NYA!” Despite the realization that Zane's teammates might hear him instead of the mechanic, the adrenalin was making him too irrational to care. His eyes zeroed in back to the nindroid as he supported his frame. The door to the workshop slammed open not even minutes after Cole's distressed call for help echoed through the ship, Nya's silhouette being made out in the dark. “What happened?! What did you do?!” She all but jumped down the small flight of stairs, stumbling on her feet as she dropped to her knees beside the pair. Blue eye scanned her teammate as he was crawling at Cole's shirt for dear life, short nails leaving scratches on his skin under the fabric and ruining the leather of his jacket. “I- I don't know! I didn't do anything! He just collapsed and started shaking, I don't, I don't know! Help him! ” “Hold him still while I get my stuff.” The composure she held earlier was completely gone, the girl scrambling to her feet as she hurried to the table with tools in the corner of the room. Doing as told, Cole's grip remained firm around the ninja, voice quiet as he muttered frantic words or comfort which were to no avail. The gasps for not much needed air and the buzzing coming from the blond were enough to cause his mind to reel, ears picking up on the noise of scratching metal as the hand on his chest vanished. Looking down between the two, titanium fingers were shaking as they tried to get a grasp of something. Despite the panic clouding his head, Cole's mind seemed to pick up on what the ice elemental was trying to do soon after. Cursing under his breath, he was quick to lean Zane on one side against him, looking around his chest until he saw the small crack in the panelling covering his internal workings. Using his free hand, the one which wasn't holding the nindroid from fully collapsing on the floor, small sparks of electricity flew between the metal plates as Cole's fingers, although just as shaky as Zane's, were able to pry open the covering. The moment his chest insides were fully exposed, the wires and little lamps on the control panel before him were going haywire, pulsing in bright colors. The fans hidden deeper in his body going so fast it scared the raven that they might break or be sent flying out. Cold hands were quick to get shoved inside the compartment, touching around in a sense of hysteria until they grasped at a circular button which was quickly turned to the far left. And just like that, Zane went limp. The flashing lights died down, the fans slowed and the buzzing was no more. It all went quiet. “Zane? Zane! I swear to the fucking gods if you-” Cole’s rambling was cut off by one more sudden gasp, Zane's eyes flying open as he pulled back, standing on his knees before him. The color of his eyes was once more brought back, blue shining over the relief on the raven's features. The master of ice seemed to be disoriented for just a fraction of a second, blinking profusely, before being quickly reminded of where he was as strong arms wrapped around him. “Thank fuck! Don't ever fucking scare me like that!” The sound of Cole's voice registered in his hearing, along with the warmth against his bare workings. The tears which had been leaking down his face had left his cheeks damp, not to mention frosted, but were now no more as he returned the embrace. A hand was slid in his hair at the back of his neck, a pair of chapped lips pressed against his forehead as the firm hold did not falter, only seeming to tighten even if barely. Catching his breath at last, he was pulled away from the hug, firm hands on his shoulders as his eyes met scarlet, which glistened with tears in the light. A hand cupped his cheek as he watched Cole take him in, worry etched in his every feature. “Are you okay? What happened? Zane, talk to me, you know I'm not a tech guy, please-” Before he could continue, cold hands took hold of his face, pulling him down into a kiss of lips and teeth. The pull may have been too harsh but at the same time it seemed to be just what the raven needed to sooth his worries. After the sensation of soft chill metal against his lips seemed to catch up to his brain, Cole wasted no time in kissing him back. Sadly it was short lived as he was soon pushed back by the same hands which pulled him close, their lips parting with a soft smack. Followed by another smack. To the face this time. “That's for lying to me.” Turning back to face the nindroid, Cole's face having been slapped to the side, fingers raised against his growing red cheek, the raven could not care less for the ache. Tears were running down Zane's face once more. Dumbfounded, he could only stare as the nindroid lifted his hand, pushing back his now totally messy hair, possibly scanning the damage on his face. “Fuck, you look a mess…” “At least I don't reek of burned plastic.” A dry laugh was earned as those sweet blues fell upon him, the hand in his hair cupping his cheek, soothing the small burn of the hit Cole took earlier. The one he deserved and will accept. His own lip tugged upwards into a crooked smile for a few seconds as he could only stare at the master of ice. Zane's system was quick to catch on the watering in his eyes before shaky lips parted to speak. “I'm sorry... I shouldn't, I should've told you sooner, and i do not deserve your forgiveness but-” “Cole.” “Yeah?” “Shut up.” A beat of silence followed. “Gods, I'm gone for 2 hours and you get sassier.” Zane's smile became toothy as he leaned his head on Cole's shoulder, his own grin now reaching his ears. “I thought I was supposed to be the direct one in this duo.” Sniffing softly, Zane looked back up again, meeting his gaze with such affection that the bizarro did not know how to process. Warm hands hesitated before taking hold of metal ones, a thumb brushing over the artificial knuckles. “I'm serious though. I fucked up and i know it. I wasn't honest with you and, and i got us into such a mess-,” His breathing was becoming quicker, the distress from minutes ago returning. Small cracking noises came from one of his sides, causing the master of ice to zero in on his other hand which was gripping the vengestone for dear life. Even in the most vulnerable state he's been in front of Cole, the dark elemental was still so scared of hurting him that he had subconsciously kept the item draining him in his hold. The bizarro did not stop speaking all the while, apologizing over and over again, warm liquid registered against the blond's fingers, slowly making its way between the gaps of his hand. Lifting his gaze, he could not believe the sight before him to be the person he had grown to know throughout their whole affair. Cole looked a total mess, tears down his eyes, hair all over the place and his skin paler than ever, the only color being bruises and redness around his eyes, as he would not make eye contact whatsoever. Every ounce of his confidence seemed to have been replaced with shame which only grew with every tear he shed. “And I'll understand if you don't forgive me, i don't deserve it, I'm not what you need and i feel like as hard as i try i may never be and-” “What did we talk about earlier?” The question seemed to break the melancholic veil over Cole's face as he blinked, confused, looking him in the eyes at last. Staring at him through tears, Zane figured he may be under too much pressure to answer without another breakdown. “You're not just this. Cole, over the past 2 months you've grown so much, you've become someone totally different than my initial image of you. The you I knew before would never be remorseful, or show weaknesses and yet you're here.” Brushing away another dark tear, Zane's touch remained gentle, something Cole felt like he did not deserve after everything he's done. “This is a mess. One which were both at fault for. I'm sorry for making you feel like the burden is only yours to carry.” “Zane-” “I love you, Cole. And because of that I will not let you suffer for the sake of both of us.” This whole situation was so overwhelming that it was making the raven's head hurt. It was foreign for him to cry, or be looked upon with such… love. He had done so much in the sake of their relationship, things he'd never even think of doing, things that would disgust him to the core had he even thought of them before this. Before Zane. Hearing him speak the words, those 3 little words, made his insides burn so sweetly that it was unbelievable how much a sentence could mean, and how much power it could have over him. Shaky hand lifted up to the one on his cheek, taking it in his hold with care, only being able to stare at those baby blues and ask himself how and why. A quiet clearing of someone's throat broke the spell of those heavy few seconds. Both boys turned to look to the left, suddenly remembering where they were and that there was another person in the room. “I'm sorry for ruining this but I really need to check up on Zane.” Nya's voice was quiet, serious but more so on the topic of the ice elemental's well-being than the scene that just unfolded before her eyes. Sniffing softly, Cole used the sleeve of his jacket to brush away the tears from his face as he nodded. “Yeah, fuck. Sorry.” “You say that quite a lot for someone who refuses to believe he can be a good person, y'know?” Had it been Zane that said that it would still be a shock, but to hear those words coming from Nya, someone he'd talked to for the first time just 20 minutes ago, seemed to be a bigger bomb being dropped on the bizarro. Looking up at her for a few seconds, Cole wasn't able to read her expression for a little while. Her lips were set in a line which if he squinted, he'd think was just a little bit tugging upwards. He couldn't look further into it as the raven turned to her work bench, looking through the tools and taking a hold of a few cables. “C'mon, this may take a while.”
----- CHAPTER BREAK -----
The last broken light from inside Zane's chest was dropped on the tray beside him, along with the rest of the parts that had been replaced.
“I should really put some kind of a safety lock on your emotion dial.” Nya huffed, pulling the protection gloves off her hands and grabbing a screwdriver from the workbench beside her.
The trio was now sitting around the metal bed in the corner of the foom, Cole killing some time by peeling off the burned cable jacket covering Zane’s old wires.
The master of ice had taken care of his wounds, bandages and bandaids covering his arms where the leftovers of his fight with the dark master of ice earlier were along and his face,which was now clean of any blood. His septum was in his pocket, the nindroid insisting he take it out so he won't get it caught on clothes and cause himself more pain.
Zane had stood quiet for a while after that, letting his friend fix up the inside workings he had jungled up earlier with his sort of a crashout.
“Except for some wires and circuits needing to be replaced you’ll be fine. Though I advise
against
testing your emotional limits. If you were to have turned them all the way off at the start you would’ve needed a week's worth of repairs. Your system got overwhelmed by the drastic jumps between registering emotions to full capacity and suppressing them.” With that out of the way, Nya made quick work of screwing Zane’s chest panelling back in place.
“I’m sorry for making you go through all this trouble Nya.” The tone the blond used was quiet, shame showing through for worrying her so much as he was at last able to put his clothes back on.
“It’s fine. I’m just glad it all worked out.”
With a soft smile sent his way, Nya turned and made her way over to the workbench, fixing up the tools she had used along with putting all the spare parts back in their rightful place. As well as giving the two boys some form of privacy.
After the adrenalin of having Zane almost go out of order on his own account, the girl had insured he two that the others had made their way to the monastery, probably to consult their Sensai on how to make it a fair future fight now that the nindroid had been adamant on not being a part of it. It did take some of the stress off their back, but it nonetheless left a big issue in their situation still.
“You okay, Snow?”
Blinking away his thought, Zane’s gaze lifted to meet Cole’s worried expression, who was now leaning on the side of the bed next to him. There were still obvious signs of guilt coming off him, judging by his body language and vitals. He was mindful of his tone as well, along with Zane noticing he’s been using less curse words, so that was for sure a sign he was serious.
Nodding, iced gaze turned to look at his hands which he rested on his lap, his thumb brushing over his own knuckles. “Yeah. Just troubled.”
“Z, I told you, it’s fine that you told them about the scroll, I don’t blame you.”
“I know you don’t but I do. I was so
absorbed
in my personal sorrow that I made a decision that will cost you your and your team’s lives.” Pale brows furrowed as the gravity of the situation settled in. Despite the long reassuring talk the raven had given him, the ninja still couldn’t help but feel remorse for what he’s done and what is about to go down. Even if Cole's team was the enemy side he hated the thought of putting someone in danger.
Warm hands snaked their way into his, making Zane just now notice he had been picking at the panelling on his fingers. Lifting his head again, blue met soft red.
“Z, you did what you thought was right. As you said we’re both at fault here. You told them because from what you knew you guys were in danger. As much as I hate to say it, I would’ve done the same for my team… Even if I'd love to throw a car at them most of the time.”
A single quiet laugh bubbled up Zane’s throat, the couple sharing small, albeit sad smiles as cold thumbs brushed over scarred knuckles. Looking at their conjoined hands, Zane’s system became trying to work out a way to solve this all again.
“Your team… From what I heard you and my clone don’t get along well.” It wasn’t really relevant picking up that topic now, but it had piqued the blond’s curiosity for some time now.
Cole scoffed softly. “You don’t say.” His smile faded, melted into an almost numb line. “When we were brought back we got into a big argument about rules and who the leader should be, stupid stuff like that, now that Garmadon is not our master. He thinks we'd be more efficient if he’s in charge so no emotions get in the way and no stupid decisions are made.”
“No emotions at all?” Zane blinked, puzzled as he watched his lover nod. Small noises of metal clanking against metal were heard from the corner in which Nya was disposing of the spare metal they had. “I thought he and your Kai are romantically involved.”
“More like sexually but yeah. I don’t know how the guy can put up with being in a relationship with someone who finds emotions disgusting but it seems to be working out.
Somehow
."
Cole looked to the side, as if considering something but quickly shook the thought away. “Anyway, since that fight we’ve been in this kind of rivalry. Every decision I try to make for the team he has to butt in and have a word.”
“And the others?”
“They’re tired of the fights too. Most of the time Kai tries to occupy or at least calm Zane down and Jay could not give less of a fuck. He’s always out doing gods know what, avoiding the whole situation unless he knows he
has
to
get involved…”
A beat of silence took over, Zane considering the information of Cole’s team’s dynamic as the bizarro seemed to still be in his head.
“But they
are
your team.” Cole sighed at that.
“Yup. As much as I hate to say it. They’re all I have…
had
.” His gaze turned soft as crimson met Zane’s gaze. Now that he had admitted the truth of his feelings, to both the master of ice and himself, it felt… easy. As easy as it could with the blade held over their heads.
“You’re a real dork.” Cole rolled his eyes at the teasing, cheeks a soft pink.
“Yeah, yeah, whatever.” Lifting Zane’s hand, the raven placed a tender, heart melting kiss to his fingertips. He’s grown soft, as much as he’d avoid admitting it. A smile tugged at Cole’s lips as he seemed to have all his focus on the nindroid. “I’m glad you’re okay. You really scared me.”
“I’m sorry.”
“It’s fine. I deserved a little jumpscare after what I did.” Chill hands left his hold, pushing back some of the uneven front strands of his hair. “And uh, thank you.” Looking to his left, the rise in volume seemed to have caught Nya’s attention, turning to look at the two. “For fixing him and… everything else.”
Looking at the couple a few feet away, her hair now fixed in a tighter ponytail, the mechanic stood silent for a second, staring. It was still hard to believe how someone born from ashes can be this tender all the while. In spite of this, the girl put the cloth she used to wipe her hands clean of the motor oil, making her way over. The lack of sleep was now obvious even from afar but she gave a smile nonetheless.
“It’s no big deal. You looked like a kicked puppy, and Zane was a literal shell of himself. It was the least I could do.”
“And we're grateful for that. Even if it wasn't your problem to solve...” Nya met Zane’s gaze, just for a second before light blue eyes focused on the bizarro once more. They were a cute couple, as bumpy as the road has been for the two, and Nya couldn’t deny it.
It was a surprise at the very start, of course, to be informed that
Zane
had taken such a crazy route just for a mission, not to mention their talk in the kitchen a few weeks ago. But then again this was Zane, the one who saw good in everything. Even in the most despicable places. And as always, his judgment turned out to be right.
Clearing her throat, Nya’s arm folded as she glanced between them before focusing on this Cole as well. “So. Our guys will probably be trying to land a blow on yours as soon as possible. What’s so important about that scroll anyway?”
Eyes on him, the bizarro felt a lump in his throat. It’s been sort of a taboo subject even in their team to speak of it. They’d avoid even thinking about it, to even get near it. Not that they really could, only Zane had access to it.
“It’s some ancient thing that was able to bring us back. Some teens had found it in an old monastery or something and thought it’d be cool to mess around with it. Turns out it was able to bring creations of the shadow realm back to light. The most recently summoned ones that is, unless you give a specific name or some shit like that.” Shrugging, Cole’s voice died down as he glanced between the two to see for any reaction.
“So there’s probably a way to reverse it on the scroll as well?” Another shrug came from Cole at Nya’s question.
“I don’t know. Only Zane has access to it and he won’t tell us shit about it. He’s super paranoid on the matter through, which i can understand. I hate the thought of going back to that place.”
“So he has it locked up somewhere. His room perhaps?”
“Could be, he doesn’t let any of us except Kai in. His office though? Off limits. So it must be there.”
“There it is then.” Nya spoke, turning the boys’ attention to her. “If only he has access to it, my brother and the others can’t go in without our Zane if it's some form of facial recognition.”
“And I made it clear I won’t be a part of the fight.”
“But your friends don’t know that you need to be for them to win. My Zane would have the others on their toes and they would not leave the base. No matter when they attack, my team will be ready and won’t hold back.”
“I doubt our will either given the severity of the situation. Even if the attacks we give to our clones are felt, if one of you dies we’ll be fine.” Zane had a point. It was how it went down the last time. Even if the scale of the pain was more dull than now, one harder blow and one of the bizarros can turn to ash again.
“So what do we do? We can't just pop out and say everything is good now.”
“...It'd be pretty funny if it works tho.”
“Cole.”
“Sorry, sorry.” The bizarro’s small laugh was able to lift the tension even a little. Zane noticed how much Nya had been observing them as well, though he had no real idea
why
yet. She didn't have that calculated look when she was measuring possible danger, just watching them.
However, Zane foung himself thinking over Cole's joke a bit more.
“But i guess it could work.
Though I doubt it'll be this way, I think we'll get a good enough outcome if the truth is out there before the fight.” Zane was smart. He wasn't easily fooled even if at times it can take him a little time to catch up on something. And by the look on Nya's face he gathered he'd made it obvious the dots were quite well connected now.
The raven stood silent, arms crossed as she was reading into Zane in return. Soon enough the little barely visible tension melted off her shoulders as she sighed. “You may be right. But knowing my brother, with you not there to bring logic to the table, he'll get into Cole's head. As much as he tries to hide it he's furious that
you
,” she sent Cole a glance, “messed Zane up so much.”
“I didn't mess him up like
that!
And in my defense, it was a consensual-”
“
Cole!
”
Zane's face was burning up despite the lack of artificial skin, a slap given to the bizarro's arm, who shot him a smirk in return. Nya herself had to hold back the tug of her lips as she rolled her eyes before continuing.
“Yeah, well, he
doesn't know that. And with how upset Zane was, Kai had probably thought it was the worse case scenario. Even if Cole tells him to, he won't hold back. And to be honest I don't think any of the others will either.”
“Which is more the reason we have to come clean. No more hiding in the shadows.”
“You're forgetting a critical detail.” The bizarro spoke, hands now shoved in the pockets of his jacket. “Your team may lay back.
Mine
won't.”
“We already have 2 of yours down to not get involved in this.”
Bushy brows furrowed as Cole stared at Nya. “We have 2?”
“Yup.” Zane spoke, as the bizarro was left to glance between the two puzzled. He had grown to figure there was something he wasn't catching up on, or hasn't yet. He'd like to think of himself as intelligent enough but right now he had almost no context clues.
He stared at Zane out of the corner of his eye, silently asking the question ‘what the fuck is happening?’. To which he got a pointed look from the nindroid. He glanced at Nya after, who seemed to be avoiding his gaze.
“Oh
shit
.” He muttered, making the girl’'s cheeks turn visibly red even in the dim lit room. He couldn't help but chuckle as he thought more on the matter. “No wonder he always went to get ‘supplies’ and never came back with any.”
“
Can we
not
talk about this now?”
Nya, poor soul, had more blood rushing to her face and down her neck than the rest of her body, clearly embarrassed that her
own
so-called affair was out in the open now. Cole's teasing wasn't helping either. “Whatever the case, you and Jay won't be up for a fight like this. This leaves Zane and Kai.”
“Kai may be more willing to give up, but Zane's quite stubborn when it comes to fights. If he finds something a threat he'd want it eliminated before it even happened.”
“So if we get Kai on board he might be able to convince him as well?” Cole shrugged at Zane's question. He wasn't sure it would work, Kai himself was quite obstinate. Not to mention they too had some form of tension between them given his constant fighting with the nindroid.
“Question is
how
will we sell him on it.” Nya sighed, leaning against the metal bed as she stared at her untied sneakers, the laces covered in oil stains by now. The master of ice was too thinking over possibilities that may give them a nice enough outcome, or a temporary one so that it will give them more time to smooth out the bumps later.
Bizarro Zane was a complicated individual. He's quite level headed when he wanted to be even if most of the time he found others lesser than him. He'd despised the idea of being thought human even back then when they had been initially created. He was never one to compromise, so a way to find something that will satisfy him enough to not cause a fight would be complicated.
If they were going to get them to not seek a brawl, it must be something that can benefit both of them, along with Zane's team. There was little the two would have in common, as crazy as it is given they were in a relationship. More importantly, it should be something that Kai would want hard enough to be able to sell it to the nindroid.
Zane and Nya's eyes snapped upwards, looking at Cole, who's brows had furrowed deeper, gaze on the ground as he spoke.
“I have an idea.”
Kai felt a sharp tug at his wrist, pulling him into one of the rooms he was passing in the hallway before he could register what happened. He was quick to figure out it was Cole's room after the small dizziness faded off, said bizarro having locked the door behind him.
The master of fire scoffed, irritated, folding his arms in front of his chest as he lifted his gaze to meet Cole's dead-on.
“Look who it is, the fuck up of the century.” Noise from movement was heard behind him, causing Kai to turn. His shoulders stiffened and his jaw clenched as he saw none other than cause number two of all his recent problems. “And his little
plaything
is here too, huh?”
“Shut up and listen.” Cole's voice grew cold again at the term used, taking his teammate's attention away from Zane who was standing by the door of the bathroom, having just come out of the entrance tunnel.
“To
you
? Fuck no.” The bizarro scoffed, staring daggers at the master of earth. “You have a lot of balls to come back here after your little bitch fight with Zane earlier. I'm not listening to
shit
you wanna tell me. Jay's still fixing him up, you're fucking lucky i haven't twisted your fucking neck in a knot.”
“I'm not here to
fight
.
I wanna compromise.” Cole spit through teeth, the temperature in the room rising along with Kai's anger.
It was useless to say he had grown tired of the whole back and forth between Cole and his boyfriend. With their nature, Zane was too stuck up to back down and Cole never watched his strength so both him and Jay had to find ways to break up a fight every week or so and then treat the damage done.
For such a team they were more dysfunctional than a false, recklessly made machine with parts that don't fit together but were crammed to be.
“Compromise? You want to compromise after endangering our team, bringing him here again, and busting Zane's face open?!”
“You
what
?
”
Zane called out for the first time, brows furrowed in puzzlement and worry as he stared at Cole who held his hand up. It wasn't important.
“I didn't mean to put your guys at risk. He had no fucking clue about the scroll untill Zane said something.”
“
Oh, so it was Zane's fault?!”
“Will you shut your fucking mouth and listen?!”
“I will blast you
to the fucking pits of hell-”
“Zane can take the lead.”
Kai's frustration faltered for a second, a bit taken aback from the sudden info as the purple flames burning in his hands slowly died down. Pierced brows furrowed at his teammate, his anger about the commotion earlier still evident even if pushed back by surprise.
“The fuck are you talking about?” There was still a sharp edge to his tone, although it melted off a little by the confusion.
“Look,” Cole started, punching the bridge of his nose as if trying to compose himself and not beat his plan into Kai. “I do not want a fight to break out, I doubt you do either with what's at stake. Zane told his team about the scroll but if they know about some other stuff as well he thinks they'll back down. Our Zane on the other hand we both know
won't
.”
The master of fire didn't particularly like Cole referring to Zane as ‘theirs’ but he digressed. It was confusing enough to have to reference two people at the same time. Plus, he had his interest at the moment, so he let him continue.
“You're the only one who can get him to back down and we both know it. Jay won't be interested in this fight either.”
“How so?”
“He has his reasons, as I have mine.”
Staring at Cole for a few seconds, he tried to read between the lines but found nothing. If there was anything to figure out, he wasn't that interested in whatever Jay wanted. When he stood quiet, the earth elemental took it as his que to continue.
“If you get him to not go through with whatever attack he's planning I will back down.” Cole explained his idea better, voice quiet but set. “He can take the lead to the missions all he wants, and we won't fight anymore on the matter.”
It was a big bet to place, Kai would need a lot of patience to get his lover on board. But Cole knew this was in both of their interests. The fight won't happen and he and Zane's clone won't be at a constant rivalry which would lead to physical altercations anymore. Sure they'd probably bicker but if the ninja were spared from the brutality he was getting ready to unleash, Cole's mouth would stay shut.
Still, fire wasn't all that convinced it would work out. As much as Zane loved to be in charge, this was something of a bigger scale. Something that could result in the end to him and his whole team if the scroll was to be found by the ninja.
“And the scroll?”
“The scroll stays with us. Zane won't be a part of the fight if it happens and his team doesn't know where it is regardless.” Cole's words were firm. He was sure of this, along with the determined look in his eyes he seemed more than set on seeing this compromise through. Crimson turned to look at the third ninja in the room.
“You sure your team will back down?”
Zane nodded. “Affirmative. If they know the whole truth I'll be able to talk them out of it.”
“But we need to take the attacks down a notch.” Cole called out again, through a soft tired sigh.
Kai's eyes snapped to his teammate. As predicted. “You said nothing about this bullshit.”
“Do you find the possibility of us dying more preferable than of us not destroying stuff for a week?”
The tension in the room made even the quiet hard to listen to, the two bizarros butting heads on the matter. Cole knew this was a way better outcome and he knew Kai realized it too, as bitchy as he was about it. The damned arsonist.
It wasn't a one time occurrence for the team to feel too worn out some weeks, leading to the four lounging around and doing nothing. It had opened the door to the collective realization that not being a danger to society can be quite nice, though none of them said it aloud.
Jay was able to focus on his stupid inventions, Kai had the opportunity to get his boyfriend to ease out on all the responsibilities he thought were necessarily his burden and the two would actually look even remotely happy doing domestic stuff.
It was nice to have a few slow days where all they could worry about was from where to order food and scare the delivery person into giving it to them without having to pay. Not that they didn't have money, Jay's favorite hobby was embezzlement. So having this taking a major part in their daily schedule would be nice, more preferable than coming back exhausted from another big hit on the city every other day.
Sure the thrill of burning down a shop or knocking out someone for the fun of it would be a smaller, less recurring thing in their life but it was better than not having anything at all. They've made Ouroboros their base with the idea of staying for as long as they chose to, and the two knew they weren't going to make the choice of leaving it vacant now.
“I'm not making any promises.”
“I know. You hate that crap.”
A small scoff escaped the master of fire as his defence was lowered. He was going to overlook the whole fight earlier if it was going to be the last one. Even if he was going to for sure keep a grudge on the matter for a little longer. Furrowing his brows, he glanced around, sniffing the air.
“Something smells burned.”
At that, the nindroid in the room seemed to get flustered, glancing at Cole for a second, who took the lead in explaining.
“Zane had repairs done earlier.”
“His face got busted too?”
Cole gave him a pointed look. He'd have to deal with this for a long while. “His emotion dial was used a little carelessly.”
Kai blinked, glancing towards the good master of Ice, now curious, his hostility being forgotten for a bit. “Emotion dial?”
“Yeah.”
“You guys have that?” Zane nodded at the surprised question.
“I guess my doppelganger has it turned off or tuned way down. Given he doesn't like emotions as far as I'm informed.”
The master of fire stood quiet, eyes burning into Zane as the room grew quiet. By Cole's guessing, he might be thinking over the fact that there was a function that could make his boyfriend not have the personality of a grumpy rock most of the time.
In spite of that, he seemed to push the thought away for later, and soon turned back to his teammate. “I'll see what I can do. But you better get the lame fucks you call your teammates to lay off too.”
Zane's shoulders stiffened at the insult sent towards his friends but he swallowed back the comment and just gave a stiff nod.
With that, the two bizarros shared one last firm look before Kai walked out the door, knowingly being their only ticket out of this.
“One down. 4 more to go.” Zane sighed, Cole turning to look at him. It was better than nothing, it was a start.
“Hopefully we have enough time to get to that monastery of yours and work things out.”
“All I hope for is for Jay to not electrocute you the moment he sees you.”
“Gods, your friends are mean! What did i even do?” Zane chuckled at his comment, grateful for Cole's way of lifting the mood when it became too heavy.
Making a few closer, the raven took hold of his hands, kissing the knuckles with such care it made Zane want to melt. Cole spent a few seconds like this, prepping kisses to his paneling and letting the master of ice enjoy the view of his features being this soft and relaxed. Even with the chance of their doom happening soon. It was a quality of his that the nindroid grew to appreciate more and more with every second.
“Any word back from Nya?” Getting back on track, Zane seemed to zone out, something Cole was quick to realize was him opening different windows before his vision with his system.
“She just talked to your Jay. As expected he doesn't wanna take part in the fight but he will if it's necessary.”
“Sounds like him.” Cole nodded to the side, not really surprised by the answer his teammate gave. Jay wasn't one to miss a chance of getting to be brutal without a fuck to give. But he was smart enough to see this was more important than some stupid high scale vandalism.
Seeing Zane was back from his little virtual trip through his communication, the bizarro leaned down to press a small peck to his lips, enjoying the quick bliss of ice cool lips against his own, which somehow made his insides burn warmer.
“Your team still put?” The question was hushed before the bizarro gave him another quick kiss.
“Yeah. Falcon is keeping an eye on things for me.”
“You and that bird. Im starting to feel like he's my competition or something.” Cole chuckled, Zane's eyes rolling once more as he looked up at his lover. “Let's go before all hell breaks loose. Again.”
“What do you think will happen if this works out…? Will your team keep a lower profile?” Cole sighed, his boots echoing through the dim tunnel, hands in his pockets. Zane was able to use his system to raise up the brightness of his inbetween compartment light enough for the tunnel to be able to walk through. As of now the two had walked around a 3rd of the way back to Ninjago.
“I hope so. Zane never liked the small pity hits we'd make. The attacks may be more severe but they'd be between bigger periods of time.” Kicking a rock, sending it a few meters further down, Cole's gaze was set on the floor as he thought through what might happen from this point on. “And I doubt I'd know of them. Or Jay. Until it becomes the time for them to unfold, I mean. He wouldn't want us telling you guys about it. If we're still a part of the team that is.”
“I doubt he'll kick you guys out.” Cole gave his lover a knowing look, his lips turned ever so slightly upwards.
“We don't operate like you guys do, Snow. Your friends will forgive you and Nya for being involved with us, even if they are hesitant at first, but that Zane?” He shook his head, kicking the rock once more, as he's been doing for the past 4 minutes. “He's not as understanding.”
Zane's brows furrowed as he watched the bizarro avoid his gaze, his hands flexing in his pockets judging by the shuffling of the leather. “I didn't think you'd be anything other than evil as well but you proved me wrong. You and Cole share many qualities.”
“I thought we were totally different.” Cole chuckled, looking up at the nindroid beside him who had a soft smile on, the blue lights of his eyes giving him a breathtaking look.
“You are, you curse a lot more.” The raven chuckled at the joke, letting Zane continue on. “But you're similar in a few ways. You're serious when needed be, but you're soft by soul. Otherwise we wouldn't be here.” Their eyes met as soon as the words were uttered, the brightness blinding but also oh, so gentle. Before Cole could argue the nindroid pulled at his sleeve, taking his hand out of the pocket to hold it in his own.
As against the odds this relationship to work was, the two were able to find a way to work around the kinks of it. The fierce punches were replaced by secret kisses and the anger by tenderness. It did take time and trust for it to transform but it did. Had it not been for that silly little tracker this would've never happened. And as much as Zane had regretted it at the start he'd never give this up.
“Yeah, in this whole mess.” Cole sighed, gaze on their hands as their fingers laced together. The gloomy look from back in the workshop was starting to return, along with the obvious signs of the raven blaming himself for all of this. Zane bumped his shoulder into his.
“Hey, as you said, this is complicated. There was always going to be a landmine risk, right?” Cole chuckled, coming to a stop as he used his hand to guide Zane to stand before him.
“I
know
you didn't just use my own line against me.”
“Oh, I would
never
.”
It was a relief to be able to joke about this now even if there was still a lot to do. Along with the weight of the secrets being long forgotten, the two finally felt like they could at last relax. With the location of Zane's team still at the monastery and Bizarro Kai working on convincing the dark ice elemental to back down from the battle that can go down hours from now, they had enough time to take a second to breath.
“I love you.” The words were quiet as they fell from Zane's lips, the light of his eyes dimming down much to the relief of Cole's vision. Despite his eyes stinging from the light, his gaze remained lovesick as the words echoed in his head and shot thrill through his veins like live wires.
“Love you too, Snow.”
A warm hand cupped Zane's cheek, cold and firm as he hadn't enabled his synthetic disguise still. It was a new look, one Cole had to get used to if Zane decided to keep it, but the nindroid's beauty stayed the same.
Sadly, the soft spell of the moment was ruined the second the cobble beneath their feet shook and smoke filled the tunnel, engulfing the two in total darkness.
With the blink of an eye, the hours they had turned to mere seconds.
----- CHAPTER BREAK -----
Getting through the dim tunnel while it was filled with smoke and debris was not the best way to spend the following 15 minutes back to the Bizarro’s hideout. Neither was the immediate blow Cole took to the face when the couple got to the hallway outside his room. “You said those fucks won’t attack!” Bizarro Kai was softly said furious as he grabbed his teammate by the shirt, the fabric quick to start smoking as he yelled in his face. “They weren’t even supposed to be here! We were halfway through the tunnel when the explosion happened!” Zane called out, pushing in between the master of fire and earth. The sound of a few deep breaths lingered in the room, clear indications of a fight happening down the hall echoing throughout the whole underground base. Kai’s doppelganger took his time burning through the nindroid with his gaze alone, jaw clenched as he seemed to have left the fight to come after the two. His hair and clothes were covered in dust, a bruise forming on the side of his face and the temperature radiating off him was enough of a giveaway that he was far from happy with the situation. “You said they were at the monastery. You said you had time-” “We thought we did!” The opposite elementals shouted back and forth, giving them enough of a timeout for Zane to glance to the side and pull up Falcon’s location. His brows furrowed. “My falcon is still at the monastery but he’s offline. His system must’ve been overloaded for him to go out like this.” “What does that mean?” The nindroid stood quiet as the raven spoke behind him. Thinking for a second he was quick to turn to Cole. “How many messages did you send through him?” Cole was quick to catch up to what Zane implied, cursing under his breath. “Fuck, uh. 30? Maybe 35? I don’t know.” “I could not give less of a fuck about that thing!” Taking a step forward, Kai’s finger poked at Zane’s chest, who stood his ground. “Get your bastard teammates in order before I take you out . ” “Kai.” Cole spat his name through his teeth, a glare exchanged between the two. “You spoke to Zane?” “Obviously fucking not! I was about to when those idiots popped up." Before the conversation could continue, Jay’s voice shot through the noise of the battle. Neither of the three were sure which Jay the voice belonged to but it was enough to break the heaviness of the conversation as they sprinted down to the main area. First to show himself out the corner of the hallway was Kai, who quickly stepped back, arms spread to his sides to stop the other two from being hit by an Ice blast sent by Zane’s double. “Fuck, Zane! You almost took my arm off!” “Shut your mouth and get your ass here!” The shout was strong as before the command was finished Kai had jumped down to the prior living room area level, now turned into a whole battle field. From where the two lovers were standing, Zane was able to see just how much 15 minutes of damage could do. And judging by the state of the room, he was correct in believing his teammates wouldn’t hold back. The furniture was either burning and broken to pieces, the lightbulbs of the lamps had exploded, leaving the only light in the room to be from the ceiling caged windows the dark ninja must’ve installed. Glancing around he was quick to take notice that Cole went head first into a fist fight with Bizarro Jay, while Kai and his Jay were previously fighting his own clone. Now that Kai’s double had joined he had made quick work to punch a blow to Jay’s stomach. By the state of the ninja themselves, Zane figured it was quite a rough fight. His own team had bruises and burns, caused both by fire and lightning, along with some parts of their clothing torn away, the pieces left to hang from dark ice which was all around the room in both spikes and slippery floor. “Shit.” Cole’s voice was barely audible from where he stood behind Zane, the two hidden in the shadows still. Iced eyes skipped through the room as his system buzzed, trying to figure out a way to put an end to this. Or enough of a pause for negotiation. “We have to stop this.” “Yeah, but how? ” “Follow my lead.” Those were Zane’s last words as he pulled his mask over his face and finally made an appearance in the fight. By blocking Kai’s attack to his bizarre self. The state of shock was quick to hit Red as he lifted himself on his elbows from where he was thrown 2 meters back, taking in the sight of his own teammate protecting the enemy. A couple of deep breaths in, and soon Kai shoved his mask back and off his face, his hair messy from the fabric. “Zane? What the fuck are you doing here- Why are you defending him?!!” “I don’t want to fight you Kai, listen to me.” “You’re- You can’t be serious.” Kai’s voice was one of disbelief as he got back on his feet and advanced forward. Zane kept his position, the dark fire elemental behind him. “The fuck are you doing?” Zane’s system picked on the hushed question from the bizarro behind him. “Stopping this. Go deal with my double.” “Zane! Are you forgetting which side you’re on?!” The mix of Kai’s voice coming from two directions was disorienting but the blond kept his composure as his teammate was now in his face, Bizarro Kai already sprinting to his own lover. Noticing this, the red ninja was quick to raise his hand, fire erupting from his fingertips, ready to blast his clone with his element. Swiftly, a cold hand took hold of his wrist, pulling at it just in time for the fire to be redirected to the ground and for Kai to have his arm in a lock behind his back. “What the fuck is up with you?!” “He’s helping us! ” “Since when?! He just burned Jay’s leg to the knee, you call that helping?!” “What are you guys doing here?” Kai was thrashing around, trying to break free from Zane’s hold. It was useless as the master of ice just tightened his grip, earning a hiss from his teammate. “Getting the fucking scroll, what the fuck do you think were doing- Let me go!” “Forget the scroll! We’re not bashing them!” Brown eyes blinked, fire stumped as he went limp for a second, shocked as he looked at Zane over his shoulder. “Are you nuts?! ” “Me and Cole have a plan.” “ Cole? ”
“ Move .” “Not until you listen to me.” “What the fuck is happening.” Jay’s question was hushed from where he stood behind Cole clone, frozen up to his waist with only one hand free. He was in the middle of landing a blow to the evil version of Zane when he had made a misstep, earning the dark nindroid a chance to ice him up. Just as he was about to send some of those wicked ice spikes Jay’s way, aimed to kill, the raven had appeared seemingly out of nowhere, raising a block of floor up as a barrier to shield both him and Jay. It had obviously taken both dark ice and lighting by surprise, though while the brunette was still processing what was happening, the nindroid’s gears were quick to kick in on the treason. By now the block shielding them from Zane’s attacks have been lowered to their knees, still ready to be used again if need be. “First you bring that rodent here, going against the plan you indicated, and now you’re turning against us and defending this scum? If you wished to be nothing but a shadow again I would’ve gladly done it myself.” Frost covered titanium arms up to the elbows, only clearing away to reveal a pair of hand claws, the weapon shiny as the ice which it was created from was dark purple and crystal clear. “I am not fighting you. Will you for once let go of your stubborn pride and listen to someone else for a change?!” “I do not need to listen when everything I need to know is before my eyes.” With that, it felt like a blink of an eye before the former teammates were now in a brawl once more. If it was any other occasion Cole would’ve been quick to return each blow twice as hard. But that was not the case. Changing the direction of his foot, the barrier was raised once more, the raven leaning back as the iced blades went through it, just millimeters away from the tip of Cole’s noise, which seemed to have stopped bleeding from the punch Kai had landed on him earlier. Using his strength, he was quick to land a punch, breaking the blades apart as he forced the earth to go to its previous height making the nindroid lose balance and go with it, hand of the broken weapon still deep in the concrete. The moment he had an opening, Zane let go of the ruined claw, shooting his other hand towards Cole's stomach. He hissed as he moved, a scratch left on his side from the sharp ice. The recovery was quick as his hand took hold of the nindroid's wrist, using his elbow to shatter the remaining weapon of the pair. Having his focus turned elsewhere, his force on the concrete had faltered as Zane was able to break free, using the wall as support before he raised himself up and sent a kick to the raven's abdomen, sending him back. Finding his balance once more, Cole had a split second time to focus before Zane sent another punch to his face, blood gushing out of his nose once more as he stumbled back. Shaking his head his feet moved as he stepped to the side, giving the ground a stomp as a small bump formed, tripping the master of Ice. “Fuck's sake why is it so hard for you to listen.” Cole hissed as he brushed the blood off his face into his arm, his pose flattering for a second as he glanced down to see ice covering his legs to his thighs. Looking back up he leaned his whole upper body back to avoid spikes sent his way. “Nothing you may say interests me anymore.” Zane's voice was cold as he advanced forward, mist rising from his fists. Sending his own fist against the ice, Cole broke free, taking one step back as he got in a battle stance. Sadly, the nindroid seemed to have had enough as he got frozen up once more, this time to his waist. Just as soon as he broke the ice again, it’'s glacial hold returned, each time rising higher. If he was going to play dirty, so would Cole. Just as he broke the ice again, he was quick to bring his foot down once more, the earth under Zane's feet rising up quickly, sending him in the air. Unfortunately, Zane was expecting this it seemed, as he was quick to create an ice spiral once he started falling.
“This is getting boring, Rocky.” Bizarro Jay spoke with boredom as he dodged another piece of concrete sent his way. Fucker had taken his serpentine side into account, using his agility to be slippery as a snake. He had dodged most of Cole's attacks by now, the master of earth himself getting exhausted. “Shut your mouth.” Cole clenched his teeth as he moved the front of his foot to the left again, recognizing another electric charge sent his way through the ground and redirecting it. “Your tricks are getting old as well.” “Oh I still have a few cards up my sleeve.” Electricity zapped in his hand as he seemed to move faster than lightning itself, in a blink appearing just a few inches away from Cole. Just where the endpoint of the electricity he had redirected earlier. He can fucking telleport through lightning now?! Cole’s mind moved slower than his body, still processing how the bizarre version of his best friend had appeared this close when he felt a cold hand connect with his chest. It felt like everything had gone in slow motion,the master of earth's face set in shock and confusion as he watched the serpentine send him a wink before it all went to hell. A sound akin to an explosion echoed through the room as the master of earth was sent flying into the wall, his form leaving a giant crack in the concrete. Falling on all fours, Cole needed a few seconds to catch his breath as it had been knocked out, spitting some blood on the ground as his hair was all fuzzy with static. Cursing under his breath he glanced up just in time to see Bizarro Jay standing above him, body language relaxed with his hands in the pockets of his hoodie. Tilting his head to the side, the master of lightning took a few seconds to consider the damage done as he glanced at the wall as well. Muttering something about Kai and 20 bucks with a smirk, he was quick to… offer his hand. It took the raven a few seconds to get all his senses back after the electric shot. Then a few more to catch his breath and lastly to process what he was looking at. His eyes skipped between the snake-like, deformed and scaled face of the bizarro and then his hand which stood still. Jay nodded in question. “You gotta stand on the ground all day? As cute as you look like this you ain my type bud.” What the fuck was happening? Bushy brows knitted and movement slow, both from hesitancy and pain from the leftover internal burn, he took the offered hand and was pulled up on his feet. “What are you doing?” Gods, his voice was rough as he tried to keep himself on his feet. He felt his whole body like it was crisped from the lightning, one arm around his stomach, flinching at first at the contact. “As much as you won't believe me I don't wanna fight. If someone hears I did I'd get my ass beat.” Jay sighed as he let go of his hand, looking him over for a few seconds. There were faint burn marks akin to scars where the skin was lighter, probably caused by the lightning shooting through the ninja's body. Lifting his hand he pointed a bored finger at Cole's stomach. “This was an accident and you'll be fine. I aimed to your right for a reason. If I go for the right side I can kill a guy.” The last part was spoken through a scoff as he turned around, jumping down the small step before his feet. They had taken a small detour during the combat, ending up in the left wing of the base. For a few seconds, the earth elemental was left utterly puzzled, staring at Jay's back as he was calmly making his way back the way they came from and back to the main area. He only stopped to turn, snake eyes meeting Cole's gaze. “You coming or not? I prefer to stop a massacre if I'm not going to be a part of it.” “What the fuck…” Cole's hushed puzzlement got a snicker out of the dark lightning before he turned back to turn the corner. “Same here bud. C'mon, your nindroid will explain it.” Cole stood still, his brain still recovering as he blinked a few times.“... Zane?!”
“You what?!” Shock seemed to have etched itself on Kai’s face, brown eyes skipping over Zane's face as the nindroid had finally let his teammate out of the lock he had on him and explained the situation. “ Him?!” “ Yes, him! Will you focus please? This is serious!” “I'm trying but I still can’t seem to process that you and Cole's clone are dating!” Zane stood quietly, staring at his teammate for a few seconds. He was hesitant if he should continue on with the confessions while they were at it but the information of Bizarro Jay and Nya also being a couple might turn the ninja's shock into rage. He shook his head. “That's not important right now.” “How-” “ Shut up and listen!” Kai's lips turned into thin lines, the sight almost comical if it wasn't for the severity of the situation. If there was one thing that could shut Kai up it was Zane being pissed. “ Yes. Me and Cole have been involved for a while, but we do not want this fight. I only told you about the scroll and their hideout because of miscommunication.” “Wait, you weren't going to tell us in the first place?” “I, I couldn't! He trusted me enough to bring me here. I couldn't betray him like this!” “He's dangerous, Zane! Just because he was sweet for a couple of weeks doesn't mean he wouldn't have done something to you once you got here!” “Well did he?” The sharp question made the brunette falter, staring at his friend, hesitant to speak a word. This was complicated and had way too many bumps but Zane was alright. The worry biting at his stomach eased its grip a bit but he still wasn't sure about it. And Ice could sense that. “He wore vengestone every time we would meet as well, on his own will. He did nothing to harm me.” “What about those bruises on your neck? And the dents you came back with?” Zane blinked. “How do you know about the dents?” “Nya. Back to the point, if he didn't have the intention to harm you then why-” It was Zane's turn to stay quiet, causing his teammate's words to falter. Though as Kai looked closer he could see embarrassment spark in his eyes and the small worry line between his brows. His eyes shot wide open as his mind clicked, his jaw dropping to the floor. “ YOU-” “That doesn't matter!” Zane cut off his initial shock, only confirming Kai's suspicions and causing his own embarrassment to skyrocket. Gods, why was the master of fire so quick to catch up on that ?! “Me and Cole have a plan. Bizarro Kai and Jay are also in on it, it's my double that needs to be convinced.” “I- Okay, we'll talk about you having literal sex with the enemy later-” “ Kai!” Had Zane kept his synthetic skin on his face would be the purest shade of blue. “-how are we supposed to convince him? And what is that compromise anyway? And furthermore, how would that Jay be down to make peace? He's a fucking psychopath!” “He-” Zane cut himself off, letting out a sigh as he closed his eyes to focus and calm down his temperature levels.”I'll explain in detail later. Right now I need you to help me convince-” “ You're dating him?!” The two ninja jumped at the loud question, turning to the left only to see Cole and Jay's clone at the entrance of the room they had taken cover in. “Holy shit. ” Kai muttered, looking over Cole's state. “What happened to you?!” “Not important!” Cole was speaking faster than usual, getting a small cocked eyebrow of amusement from the serpentine who was leaning on the doorway. “You blabber more than my clone…” The muttered comment from the dark lightning was overlooked as green eyes zeroed in on blue ones. “ You're dating that guy?!” Zane glanced at bizarro Jay, his body temp which he just got back to normal raising once more. “You told him?!” “What? That was your plan all along anyway.” Jay only shrugged as he watched the whole commotion, clearly entertained. “And fucked him actually.” “ WHAT?!”
“KAI!”
“ What? He was sure to find out sooner or later!” The master of fire raised his hands up in mock surrender, glancing between his teammates and the former enemy as Zane could only pinch the bridge of his nose in frustration and pure agony of being put in the spot. Cole's jaw was all but dropped on the floor, Jay using his finger to push it back closed which only got him a slap to the hand. The serpentine scoffed a bit as the master of earth glared at him. “Don't touch me.” “Feisty. I see why my clone likes ya.” Cole did a double take. “Wait, what?” “Alright, let's go before my Zane tears your boyfriend's head off.” The lightning elemental spoke through a sigh as he pushed himself off the door frame, making his way down the hallway whileKai and Zane were getting up from the floor. Cole glanced between the two and then the serpentine a few times, seemingly on the verge of collapse. Both mentally and physically. “ Wait! What, what do you- What the fuck is happening?!”
Cole's breath was heavy, his feet barely keeping him up anymore as exhaustion was threatening to take over. The room had fallen silent, shards of ice and leftover pieces of rubble at their feet. In the midst of the commotion Cole was able to shatter the ice which Jay was trapped inside of, the lightning ninja now a few meters back by his side, panting. Zane was taking his time calculating his next move, even with sparks of electricity shooting between the gaps of the panelling covering his left arm. After one particular blow to his chest some of his settings must've gotten mixed up, his camouflage now on except in some parts where the sensors seemed to have been damaged. It was uncanny how much he looked like his good counterpart now, the only thing different being his determination to kill and the crimson color of his system's lights. His suit was all torn up, the button up shirt covered in motor oil stains and Cole's blood. “Fuck, is it that hard to use your ears?” Jay muttered from behind Cole's shoulder, his nunchucks in hand and hair a mess, along with his face all shades of blue. His lip was bust and he had gotten quite the bad black eye, the skin swollen, giving him minimal vision in his left eye. He still had no clue what was going on or why he took Cole's side but if he was going to fight Zane, he must've had a reason. Plus the enemy of my enemy is my friend and all that crap. As long as Cole's punches were sent the nindroid's way Jay couldn't complain. “ As I said before, I have no use of wasting my time talking to you.” “You might like what I have to say.” Cole retorted, brushing off the blood from his lip before spitting some out on the ground. “I doubt that. All I've heard and seen you do has been nothing but a failure.” Quickly seeing the shift in Zane's feet, Cole sprung into action as he hit his fist against the ground, a pillar erupting through the floor and causing the ice which was sent their way to crash and split against it. Jay was pulled beside the bizarro, both hidden behind the boulder. “Will you tell me why exactly I'm helping you out?” Jay’s voice was a bit louder, given the sound of ice breaking apart had surrounded them, small shards of ice shooting around them leaving small scratches. “Long story. Fuck's sake where's Kai?” Cole muttered, trying to look around but his vision was limited with the cold crystals sent flying like bullets everywhere he looked. The master of fire had been anything but seen ever since him and Zane had arrived. Catching his breath he turned back to the ninja beside him who seemed startled for a bit when their eyes met. “I need you to take him out.” Multicolored eyes stared at him for a bit before the lightning seemed to figure out what the words spoken to him were. Blinking frantically, his confusion turned to panic. “You want me to what?! I can't take him out! In case you forgot, I was turned into a popsicle the last time I tried!” “I can't fight him!” “What- what do you mean?! You were just doing that?! Why do I have to take him head on?!” “I was dodging! He's exhausting himself but he's stubborn as shit, he won't let go until both of us are out cold, and we need to buy time until that bastard's here.” “Who? Your Kai? Oh gods, why am I the only one of my team here with you guys.” cupping his face in his hands, Jay pushed them back and through his hair to try and calm himself down. Was this how their Jay was all the time? Cole was sure to never complain about Bizarro Jay anymore. After a long groan Jay's hands left his neck. “Fine! Fuck it, fine! I'll try!” “Good. I have a new plan.” That got a depressed and almost whiney sign out of the brunette. “Oh great, just amazing, marvelous even-,” “I'll give you a boost.” “Huh?” Jay's scream filled the room as the ground beneath his feet shot him up in the air and straight towards the ceiling. It took him a few seconds to stop yelling for his life and gather his quickly changing surroundings. Once he was close to the ceiling, he was quick to take hold of the caged windows, pulling himself up in the tight space between the glass and the metal as he had a good view of the ground meters below. He caught his breath, hands shaking from the sudden adrenaline as he stared down at the bizarro. “ What the hell was that?!” Cole's gaze turned stern, pointing to the bars he was holding onto as if that was going to help Jay out just like his Cole usually did. It was so fucking annoying and charming and he was sure to punch him for it one day. Cursing under his breath his head whipped back and forth, trying to figure out what to do. He did a double take as he saw a small lever by the end of the row of windows. He needed one second more to notice the mechanism on the frames holding them in place. Looking down at the master of earth he gave a sharp nod before pulling the lever. In a matter of seconds everything went quiet and dark. Great. Now what? Touching over his person, Jay found the side pocket of his pants which he had added himself, looking around until he found what he was looking for. Pulling out a pair of goggles he hushed, begging for them to not have been busted, until they were on. With a small zap from the tip of his fingers to the side of the gadget, the room came to view once more. Night vision this time. “Yes!” He muttered in triumph as he looked down below again. “...how do I get down now?”
Once the lights were out, Cole's ears only heard the quiet. The attacks from Zane were gone but so was the raven's vision. Knowing him, his system lights must've been turned off the moment the lights went out. His hand pressed open to the ground as he read the vibrations, figuring out where the nindroid might be. Once he felt a small rumble to his left he was quick to jump back, the sound of ice coming crashing down filling his ears. Jumping on his feet, Cole did his best to focus on the ground below for any indication of Zane's whereabouts. A step was felt a meter before him, his powers shooting to action as he made the ground move backwards a few meters, a small barrier being made around where Cole was just in case. “Fucking coward, hiding in the dark.” Zane's voice echoed in his ears to his left. Before he would turn to face it a force hit him to his left sending both him and the person attacking him into the wall. A strained groan travelled up Cole's throat, agonizing pain shooting through his arm as he figured his shoulder must've been dislocated from the impact. Before he could lift himself on his good hand a sharp, small pinch met his throat. He stood completely still as his eyes adjusted in the dark, the very dim light from Zane's eyes above him. Giving a small shine to the iced blade on the side of his neck. Both teammates stood quiet, catching their breaths as the situation sunk in. Cole couldn't move, Zane was fast, he'd cut him up with no remorse whatsoever if he dared to make a move. Just breathing was making the blade bite at his skin. The room was eerie still and quiet, not to mention he had no clue where the others might be. He had seen Bizarro Jay and his good counterpart go into the left wing back when he first laid eyes on the fight. He had no clue where Zane was or either of the Kai's, and the Jay in the room was way too high up to jump down safely. Fuck, he had to think more on the plan before initiating it. “You've grown weak and stupid.” Zane's voice was quiet as it shot through the air. “You let emotions get the better of you and this is where you end up. Blade to your neck by someone you had trust in.” It was bizarre hearing him speak like this. He was calm, like usual, yes, but there was this small spark of almost disappointment in his voice. Melancholy maybe? Something akin to it. “Yeah, well. I don't regret it. Even if you kill me now it wont do you any good.” Cole huffed, one hand slowly moving up to hold his wounded shoulder. He hissed at the small pressure added to his neck, the cold biting at him. “At least I get to know what love feels like. To not be treated like a weapon all my life. Even if only for a little.” Zane's hold on the ice seemed to falter just a fraction. Had it been anyone else there would be no difference. But Cole knew. “Did you? ” Silence followed, the blade still at Cole's neck as both let the question settle in the dark. “It'd be a shame, you know. You've had it longer than me but you refuse to let yourself feel it.” “I don't want to feel-,” “Need and want are two different things.” “This is why you're here. Even in your final moments you prefer to preach about love and bullshit like this. You've gone soft, this is not what our team needs.” The bite to his tone was back. “So what we need is to be machines? Deprived of any choice?” “If it gets the job done.” “Your way led to us being here. This is not a job done good, this is suicide. You may think you're all wires but know the more you keep that emotional dial to a zero the less time you have.” “You know shit about how I operate.” “But you do.” Cole retorted, despite the small warm liquid starting to run down his neck. “You know how this will affect you in the long run and you still do it. What for? To seem strong? You seem stupid. Keep this up and you’ll end up alone. We're not Garmadon’s chess pieces anymore, quit acting like one.” “ He created us! We owe him our loyalty!” “ He is gone!” Their voices echoed through the room, heavy breathing heard as the blade had left Cole's neck. He couldn't see anything, just the outline of Zane's silhouette. “Is this why you're like this? You failed once and got a punishment? This won't happen now Zane! Garmadon’s gone, he doesn't have power over us anymore!” “And what about them? How do you know the moment you make one wrong step they won't damn us?!” Throughout the commotion something must've really set Zane's system off for such a strong reaction. Not that he wouldn't shout every once in a while before but Cole swore he sounded almost desperate. Swallowing the raven let his hand fall from where he held onto his shoulder and lifted it up, blindly, as he found Zane's arm, touching up a bit to grab at his shoulder giving it a firm squeeze. “They won't do that. They're not like that. If we play our cards right we will all walk out of this.” Even in the dark Cole's eyes were still set, gaze firm but more gentle than the usual glares the two would send to each other. “We have free will now, yet you still seem to think we need to be this- this force of chaos! I get you hate feeling stuff but in some situations you need to let them show.” Zane shook his head in the dark.“You don't get it.” “No. I don't. But if you're going to make the choices for them from now on you need to get what I'm saying.” Silence, the small stiffness in Zane's shoulders returned as the raven was able to, even barely, make out the nindroid's eyes skipping over him. “What are you implying?” “You take the lead. I won't fight you over it, I won't question any decision you make for the team. But you need to think about what's good for them if you'll be boss now.” “You're leaving? Cole, cut the bullshit, what is going on here?” The hand on Zane's shoulder was smacked away, his eyes squinted at his teammate. “The fuck do you mean I get to be the leader? This is not how it works, you can't just up and leave, you fuck! ” “Why not? You can't stand me since that fight we had.” “Over leadership! Not you leaving! We're a team you can't quit whenever you want!” It was Cole's turn to be confused as his brows furrowed in the dark room, trying to make any sense of what Zane was saying. “Fuck are you talking about? I thought you wanted me gone, especially after this. ” “I want you to fall in line! I do my best to keep us safe and in check so we don't go back to the Shadow Realm! Everything I do is for the betterment of our team but it seems every time I try to get you guys in order you want the other way around!” Cole blinked, confused as he tried to think about what was happening. His mind couldn't process the whole situation, not to mention how emotional Zane was getting. This was weird and confusing and he had no clue how to proceed. “That's not true.” “To me it seems that way! Any mission there is, you risk the well being of the team and if I don't try and knock some sense into your head we can all but be goners!” Zane stopped speaking for a second, catching his breath as he pinched the bridge nose, even if Cole couldn't see that. Fuck, what was going on with him? “I was furious about you bringing him here because he's supposed to be the enemy! If he gets to that scroll, even if you trust him, one wrong step and we're done for! Look around!” “...I can't..really do that right now-” “Fucks sake just.” Zane exhaled, the noise of glass meeting ground registering in Cole's ears along with the vibration below him. He had put the blade down. “You're not leaving.” Cole stood quiet, all ears as he tried to find a means to all this. “You just said I'm putting the team at risk...” “You are. But if you're not here to show me the obvious I will be the one holding blades over our heads. You make sure the team won't be affected and I make the plans. That's how it works, that's how it's always worked.” “What about all this then?” Zane sighed, thinking for a second. “I'm far from content with this situation. You put us at risk for your own behalf that we can't have… but I see your reason.” … What? “You do ?” Cole's voice was full of genuine confusion, surprised that Zane was being so understanding. This was never how he was. He grew worried. For himself more or less. “Did I mess you up that bad? Kai wouldn't rip me apart dude, cut it out.” What sent even more shock through him, was when a small chuckle was heard from the master of Ice. Along with a hand gripping at his shoulder. “What are you-” Cole's question was cut midway through as he bit on his tongue, pain shooting through his right side as his shoulder was popped back in place. “ Fuck! Motherfucker!” Catching his breath, he stood still for a bit, flexing his fingers as he finally got the feeling in his hand again. He blinked a few times, squinting his eyes as the red lights of Zane's system returned to their original brightness. “That's for the whole mess.” “You're a real piece of work, scrap metal.” “Do not call me that.” Silence fell between the two as Cole rolled his shoulder a few times, the pain subsiding slowly as he thought on what he might say now. Zane beat him to it. “Do they know where the scroll is?” “Fuck, I don't know where it is. Probably in your fucking sex dungeon or whatever you and Kai have going on.” “First off,” the room grew bright as Kai's voice was heard, the bizarro by the entrance of the room with a flame big enough to light up almost half of the room erupting from his hand, “that's a sick idea, babe, we're doing that.” “We're not doing that.” Zane quickly intervened, sitting up from where he had been kneeling before Cole all this time, dusting off his dress pants which did almost nothing given they had holes in them along with stains of both blood and motor oil already. “ Sure.” Kai rolled his eyes, unconvinced, before he got back on topic.“Second, yall dont need to worry about that damn scroll.” Both of his teammates turned to him, brows furrowed after the blond helped Cole up. Cole was first to speak. “What do you mean?” “Burned it.” All went quiet for a few seconds. “ You did what?” Zane's voice was quiet, spoken through teeth as his eyes were wide open, staring at his lover in both fury and surprise. And there he was again, the easily triggered timebomb Cole knew. Good to have things back to normal. The master of fire only shrugged. “Burned the scroll. You worry about it getting into someone's hands so much, why not just destroy it? We're still here aren't we?” Kai seemed calm, totally not baffled at the thing he had done like there haven't been a chance of the whole team getting killed because of it. “Is that where you have been all this time?!” Cole took a step forward, no longer in his initial state of shock anymore. “You realize we couldn've all vanished, right?!” “But we didn't . And in my defence it took me so long because those security locks were way too much work. Babe, work it out.” This was the most risky and stupid thing Kai had ever pulled but after the 4th lock he had busted open, he figured it was worth the try. And to be honest, he himself had grown tired of this whole thing with that damned piece of old papyrus. Plus he had looked it over around maybe 5 additional times before he used his powers on it. It was just the chant to summon them back. Not to mention he found enough copies of the scroll's text which Zane had made to study the words to last them for a lifetime. Even if the ninja had gotten to it, it wouldn't have made a difference but his boyfriend was always up to his neck in anxiety that they might find a way to use it against them that it got to Kai's last nerve. “So you just burned it? Like that?” Cole got a nod from Kai at his small demonstration of an explosion with his hand. “And nothing happened?” “It did sizzle a bit for some reason, but that's all.” “That's…the stupidest thing you've ever done.” Zane spoke, processing the information still as his boyfriend nodded. “Yup.” “Yeah, super stupid, uh lovely talk and all,” the tree turned to look above them, Kai making his flame bigger as the purple light illuminating from it gave them a better vision of the ninja still stuck on their ceiling, “but, i'm still here and i still have no clue what's going on! Someone bring a ladder or something before I become claustrophobic!” Kai scoffed, eyeing the lightning elemental. “How'd you get up there?” “Not by choice!” “Wait, where are the others?” Cole blinked, noticing at last how quiet it actually was. “Infirmary. Your boyfriend is patching his friends up and filling them in on all that mess. Told them I'd take care of it.” Kai's explanation gave Cole some ease as he let out a small sigh. Turning to Zane he patted his shoulder. “I get that Jay, you go to ours. You're acting way too weird for my liking.” With that, the raven made his way across the room and to the wall nearest to where Jay was. Placing a hand on it, his powers forced a staircase to appear, along with a platform right below where the ninja was so he could get down safely. “Turn the lights back on!” “Yeah, yeah!” Jay's voice was filled with annoyance as he reached over, pulling the lever once more as the beautiful sight of the Bizarro's ruined leftovers of a base came to light.
“Weird? Fuck does that mean?” Kai asked, glancing back from Cole to his lover, looking over the nindroid as he made his way over. A cold hand cupped at his cheek before he received a small peck to his lips. Once he was pulled back from the surprisingly soft kiss, Kai was left blinking in surprise at the tender look on Zane's face. “Good job, flame.” It took the bizarro a few seconds for his mind to catch up to what happened, staying still as a statue while the nindroid's's footsteps slowly faded from earshot in the hallway behind him. The flame in his hand would both falter and become bigger the more his mind reeled. “No, yeah, you're fucking weird.” Confusion written on his face, he turned on his heels to follow his boyfriend down the hall, leaving his teammate to deal with the lightning ninja.
----- CHAPTER BREAK -----
“Stop moving so much.” “You try being still with such burns.” After a quick unimpressed glare from Jay, Cole finally let go of his whining and turned to look around the room, letting blue attend to his wounds. It was a dumb argument, given the master of lightning was the one to patch him up. His eyes were quick to fall on Zane and his own double, the white ninja having Bizarro Cole lean his head back and cleaning up his bloodied nose and the cuts from the battle earlier. From here he couldn’t tell what their conversation was about but the two seemed quite relieved, the bizarro’s hand resting at Zane’s hip, thumb brushing small circles over the fabric of his gi. It was a weird sight to say the least, but not off putting. He was never one to freak out during a mission, even in one of such caliber, but with such a shitton of information having been dumped on him midfight it was hard to keep himself collected. Of course, seeing his teammate and the now former enemy like this did bring a little inside view on their dynamic. Not to mention everything that had gone down not even an hour prior. It would be an adjustment to get used to obviously, not one that would be easy, but seeing how his clone was just looking at the nindroid talking to him, he figured it won’t be that big of an issue. Weird how things can change so much in 2 months. A tap at his shoulder caught his attention, making the raven peak over his shoulder. “Arms up. Gotta bandage you.” Doing as he was told, Cole lifted his arms enough for Jay to be able to wrap some bandages around him. Once done, the brunette had sat up to dispose of the medical supplies he used, limp in his walk. “How’s your leg?” Jay shrugged as he sat beside his teammate, hands resting on his lap. “Not that bad. Still hurts but the cooling cream these guys have is good. Better than ours to be honest.” Kicking his legs back and forth from the edge of the medical bed, lightning avoided eye contact before scoffing and meeting Cole’s gaze with a tired smile. “You think we’d be even if I steal it?” Cole smiled a bit. “For what? Burning you or getting you trapped in the ceiling?” Jay sighed. “You’re right. Maybe I’ll take the pool table too.” “You can’t play pool, Jay.” “They don’t know that! Plus how am I supposed to learn if I don't have the materials needed?” At that the master of earth simply rolled his eyes and looked away from his friend, who let out a final small laugh before the quiet filled the room again. Between Blue and Black at least. The rest of both teams were somewhere around the base of the Bizarros, as far as the raven knew Zane, Jay and Kai’s doubles were in Jay’s workshop fixing the nindroid up while their Kai was in the kitchen getting some food and drinks and to make a quick call to Nya. To reassure her everything is okay and the sorts. “Who knew Zane had this in him.” Blinking out of his thoughts, Cole looked back at his best friend, his gaze set on the couple at the other end of the room who were now just quietly chatting. Cole’s lip tugged upwards again. “I mean, he did kiss him back at the mall.” “Yeah but that's a kiss. Dating him?That's an entirely different story.” Cole nodded in agreement, looking over to his bizarre self and his teammate again. “I’m surprised you’re okay with that.” The earth elemental paused, blinking a few times before turning his attention back to Jay. “What do you mean?” “He is you, to a point. Evil, yes, even though by looking at him now it's hard to say that, but isn’t it… weird seeing yourself in a relationship with someone you’ve known for years?” Thinking on the matter, it was surely a fair question. At the start, back when Zane told the team of how he had been able to put the tracker on his evil self, he was a little put off by the image of it, mental one at the time. Seeing it now was also something to get used to. But surprisingly it didn’t bother him that much. Not that Zane needed his blessing, nor that version of himself. They were their own people, both had their own head on their shoulders, they shouldn’t be bothered with what he may think of their relationship. So, Cole shrugged at Jay’s question. “Not that much to be honest. It’s a little weird, yeah, but Zane knows what he’s doing. Who am I to tell him what to do? I got used to seeing a double of me, I'll get used to him dating a teammate.” “Even with the knowledge that they’re together? And what that, you know, implies ?” Bushy brows furrowed in puzzlement. What was Jay getting at?“As I said, it doesn’t concern me.” “But.. It does ?” “Why is it that this not bothering me seems to bother you more?” “It’s not!”“I said it seems that way.” “Yeah, well it’s not. I am totally unbothered by it.” “Okay.” With that the awkward conversion came to an end, Jay’s gaze averted to the floor and Cole’s staying on him for a few beats of silence before turning away as well. This was a weird interaction. Jay himself has been acting weird ever since Zane had pulled him to the side to talk after he had come down from that ceiling pocket and the fight had been declared over. After that the master of lightning would avoid any eye contact whatsoever for the first 30 minutes of them being in the same room. He didn’t know what to make of it. At first Cole thought he might be overstimulated from everything that’s happened, not to mention them being underground. The echoes from every big hit to the wall and the explosion earlier made everything louder than what they were used to. Jay was never one to enjoy loud noises much. It was more than once when he’d have a shutdown and have to communicate with the team via morse code or sign. Or write things down if he didn’t feel like any of the other two sometimes or there was simply no one to understand him at the moment. But then again during those times he’d be more zoned out and wouldn’t want anyone near him. Now he just seemed anxious and maybe a little scared. Furthermore he was still talking, so Cole ruled this reason out. Looking back at the master of lightning out of the corner of his eye, Cole observed him silently. His hands were fidgety, picking at the skin around his nails like he always did when there was something bothering him. Had the med bed been lower, close enough to the ground for their feet to be planted on it, Cole figured Jay’s leg would be bouncing. Lifting his gaze, he took notice of the small frown the brunette had, slit eyebrow giving a small tremble here and there. Whatever he was thinking about was worrying him. Mismatched eyes did a double take in his direction, Jay’s face becoming just a few shades pinker as he noticed Cole’s staring. “What?” Now that the two locked eyes, Cole was able to read his friend better. The worry lines on his forehead, the squinting of his eyes as he was obviously doing his best to make himself calm down and seem relaxed, unbothered. Which obviously turned out to be a failed attempt. “What are you freaking out about?” “Nothing! I’m not freaking out, what makes you say that?” “Jay.” The lightning master didn’t speak again, staring at his friend for a few before tearing his gaze, lips tugged in a frown. Cole’s brows furrowed as he noticed a small hint of blush on his cheeks.
Oh.
Oh, right. Bizarro Jay did mention something about Jay… Fuck, how did he forget about that? It made sense now, Jay’s behaviour, the quick glare he saw Zane throw at the serpentine. The blond must’ve informed Jay that Cole now knew of his crush and that's why he was walking on eggshells. His mind had probably pushed it to the back of his head because of everything that’s happened in the last 3 hours. But now that everything seemed to be at bay, or at least no one was fighting, Cole knew the two should talk on the matter. Just as he parted his lips to speak, however, the other members of both teams walked inside the medical room, Kai and his bizarro self holding some bottles of water and a few chip bags. The master of earth threw one last glance in Jay’s direction before standing up to grab some water from the dark fire elemental. Now was apparently not the time. “Alright then.” Kai’s double started, speaking through a sigh as the last of the food was handed out or placed on the table by the door. “Let’s clear this whole bullshit up because, frankly, I’m tired as fuck.” Crossing his arms and leaning on the wall Bizarro Zane stood beside, he shot a glance at the other couple in the room. “Floor’s yours Romeo.” “Right.” Zane sighed, taking a step back to let Cole stand up as well, slightly faltering on his feet from the damage done from his fight with the dark ice elemental. “Before we start I have a question.” Kai voiced, even raising his hand in the air, which he had the habit of doing for some reason. Especially given he never waited to get permission to ask his question. “Why did you wait so long to tell us about… you know, all this ? We could’ve avoided this whole shitshow.” “You expected him to be jumping with excitement to tell us he’s dating a villain behind our backs?” Cole scoffed a little, some exhaustion seeping through as he looked at his friend who just shrugged. “I mean, it wouldn’t have been that unexpected. They did make out once already.” “You seemed quite surprised to find out they were fucking though.” “Can you stop ?” Zane’s question was answered with just a shrug by Jay’s double. Pinching his nose, the nindroid sighed as he got his head straight. “As Cole said, I figured such news would not be taken kindly. We will talk about this home. What I actually want to discuss is what arrangements will be made between our teams going forward.” “We already said we’d lay off the attacks, what else is there to talk about?” “We did,” Bizarro Cole spoke at last through a breath, agreeing with his Kai before pushing his hands in the pockets of his cargos, “but we still need to set some boundaries. Just because we won’t blow something up twice a week doesn't mean we’re all free to do whatever.” “Please don’t blow stuff up.” Jay muttered quietly, to which no one seemed to pay attention as Zane’s doppelganger spoke up. “I agree. If we’re going to be in a truce situation we need to know the boundaries of it.” The nindroid seemed back to his normal cold and easily irritated self. Apparently, Cole had in fact roughed up some of his inside workings, and somehow his emotion meter had been turned up. What was interesting though was that it had been raised by just a few percent above zero, yet by his good counterpart’s observation, he was acting as if the emotion dial had been up halfway. Zane’s conclusion to why this happened was because of the Bizarro’s long term suppression of this function. “I will get the first and major thing out then, no killings.” Cole spoke, glancing around the room to look at the doubles, who made no reaction whatsoever. “Or torture.” Bizarro Jay scoffed in annoyance at the comment Zane added. “I'm with blondie on this one, I can’t sleep if you always use that fuckass electric chair.” Jay blinked at the comment made by the dark fire master before giving a puzzled look directed at his clone. “ Why do you need an electric chair…?” “Hey, most of the time I use it on myself.” “That’s… You know what, I won't comment. I don’t want to know.” “I still expect to burn something down though.” Kai’s double spoke up, clearly not in the mood to be a part of the conversation, given the tired slope of his shoulders. “Don’t expect me to go cold turkey just because one of yours is fucking one of ours.” Zane closed his eyes, doing his best to compose himself and not have a meltdown at the constant reminder. Must they really bring that up in every sentence?! “We don’t expect you to stop being evil, that’s not a likely happening scenario.” “Great, I’m going to bed.” None of the dark ninja went to stop the master of fire as he leaned off the wall and disappeared down the hall, the other team just sharing a few glances and Zane’s doppelganger rolling his eyes. He’d probably fill him in on the details later. “Anything else you four might want to add?” At the nindroid’s question the original elemental masters took a second to look between each other before some shrugged or muttered a small no. Bizarro Zane nodded. “Then there’s nothing else, I assume? Just don’t think you bunch are welcomed here whenever.” “Oh, no thanks, this place is creepy as shit.” Jay muttered, glancing a bit around before smiling nervously at the cold stare Zane’s bizarro self sent him. “Not, not that that’s a bad thing! Of course not! Totally your style! I’m digging it! Who designed this place?” Zane dismissed Jay’s rambling, turning to look at his good counterpart and his own teammate. “If he comes around I’d prefer a heads up. That goes for you too.” Turning, he caught the evil Jay’s attention, who was playing around with some bandages. Meeting the gaze of the nindroid, the brunette shrugged before leaning up from the bed he stood beside. “No need, I doubt she’d like it here.” “Good.” “Wha, now wait a minute,” Kai spoke up, now allerted, brows furrowed as his hands fell from his hips to glance between the two bizarros. “‘She’?” Bizarro Jay just gave a small, ever so slow smirk, the snake-like fangs shining between his lips as he threw the ball with bandages at the fire ninja, patting him on the shoulder before walking out of the room. “Tell your sister I said hi, would ya?” Kai stood completely still for a few seconds after catching the bandages before he all but combusted into an inferno as he registered the words that reached his ears. In a blink of an eye the roll had caught on fire, the ninja yelling as he went after the serpentine and down the hall. The rest of Zane’s team shared a speechless glance, as the nindroid himself let out a sigh. He wasn’t sure how he expected the negotiation to go but he must’ve predicted Jay’s double would be quick to rub in the fact that he’s dating Kai’s sister in red’s face. Poor Nya. And poor Jay, since he’d have to deal with her being pissed for telling. Turning to his clone, he decided to bring back the main point of the conversation as he offered his hand, his copy cocking an eyebrow. “If there’s anything else I'll contact you. Same goes for you and your team.” Keeping the eye contact going, albeit tentative, Zane added. “Thank you.” Small silence followed, the dark ice elemental casting a quick glance over his counterpart. He seemed to be trying to read him, maybe expecting to find something between the lines. But in the end, after he found nothing, he accepted the handshake, grip firm as he nodded. “Very well.” “And we’ll help you fix all the damage done to your base.” “That’s to be expected.” Zane’s lip tugged upwards at his clone's comment, their handshake ending as the bizarro shared a quick glance with Cole before leaving the room as well. A sigh came from the other end of the room, as the original master of earth stood up on his feet. “I’ll go grab Kai. We just came to an agreement, I don't want him burning someone alive before it’s been a day. C’mon.” Giving Jay a little nudge, the brunette was quick to nod and get to his feet. “No, no. You guys are injured, we'll go get him.” Bizarro Cole spoke up, letting out a sigh before continuing. “Jay's gonna be a bigger prick if one of you goes anyway. I know how to deal with his bullshit.” Jay blinked a few times, seemingly surprised by the bizarro's words. But after that shrugged as he looked to his best friend. “He's got a point?” Cole stayed quiet for a bit, weighing his options it seemed, before facing, well, himself and nodded. “And no stealing the cooling gel.” Zane gave the two of them a serious stare, pointing between the duo. Jay gave a whine to which Cole rolled his eyes. “C'mon, Snow, don't scare them now.” The dark earth elemental humored, putting the blond's shoulder before walking out, the blond at his heels.
“So,” Kai spoke as he leaned on the doorframe of Zane’s office, throwing a small ball into the air and catching it again. “Emotion dial, huh?” The nindroid sighed from where he sat in the armchair placed in the corner, the jacket of his suit laying on the arm rest. He put down his glass of whiskey on the table beside him. “Don’t be getting any ideas.” “I’m not.” The evil master of fire was quick to replay as he walked further inside, pocketing the tennis ball before leaning on the desk at the center of he room. “I’m just confused why you didn’t tell me about it.” “I’m not inclined to share everything about how my system operates.” “You kind of are if we’re sleeping together.” The bizarro wasn’t phased by the glare the blond sent his way. If anything it almost made him chuckle. Almost. The quiet stretched on for a few seconds, during which Red took out a packet of Marlboro reds, so original, and lit one up, using a small flame from his thumb as a lighter. The smoke waved through the tense air as soon enough Zane spoke up again, quieter as he stared at the wall. “You know I don’t like my human-like features.” “Oh, no, you hate that shit.” Kai spoke up, voice lowered since he held some of the smoke in his lungs before blowing it out, “That’s why I need to know such stuff.” “The reason being?” Kai tilted his head to the side, cocking his brow. When all his boyfriend did was stare at him in return, he sighed and walked over to sit on the armrest of his chair. “Zane, as hard as you are to talk to sometimes, what’s not hard is telling me important things so no accidents happen when we have sex.” Zane groaned. “Will you stop bringing up sexual stuff, for fucks sake.” “I’m serious this time,” the brunette insisted, “you know how fun I find playing with your wires to be. If I had turned up the dial, not knowing what it was, I’d do the one thing that you yourself dread doing. Then you’d be upset and the mood will be ruined.” “I’m not afraid of my system.” “Then why did you not tell me about it?” “I have my reasons not to share everything there is with you.” “So there's more that you hide from me?” “Weren't you going to bed?” “Not with you acting like a pain in the ass, at least not the pleasant one.” Bizarro Zane seemed to ignore his comment, or him all together as he took another sip from his whiskey, the grip on his glass more firm. He was getting frustrated and it was showing, but Kai was nothing but stubborn. “Zane.” He tried again, his gaze glued to the nindroid. “Why didn't you tell me?” “I'm thinking of getting rid of it all together, why does this bother you so fucking much?” The glass was placed back on the table with more force than usual. The silence on the other end was enough for the ice elemental to gather that Kai, in fact, would not back down. Not soon anyway. A groan left his throat as he dragged his hand down his face in frustration. “You know I despise being seen as weak.” “I don't think you're weak.” “That's not the point. The point is that if you knew about it then you'd have some form of control over it. Have control over that, you have control over me, I am not giving anyone access to such information nor do I owe an explanation as to why I don't want to share it!” Zane's voice was stern as he explained, the smallest of fog coming out from beneath his panelling and his mouth the more he spoke. After the small echo of his speech died down the quiet appeared, as he did not even throw a glance in Kai's direction. He hated having to share such things with people, especially ones regarding his inner working. Jay himself still had no clue as to how exactly his system operated, Zane did all the work in repairs most of the time. Even if they were a team he didn't trust anyone enough to let them bug around his coding or his body beneath basic wire level. Showing people things that can play a major part in one's relationship or well being, especially things such as these weaknesses, may as well be a blade to the throat. Who knew what might happen or who might stab you in the back. He had regretted letting Kai in so close for months, until the regret just turned into the mental agreement that if he got even the smallest of hesitation that Kai was loyal, not only as a partner but a team member as well, he's gone. So far, he has not seen anything, out of the ordinary, at least. Except those gods awful flirting monologues Kai would have whenever Zane tried to work. He couldn't believe he was still putting up with the nicknames. Staying quiet as he held his chin, Zane only looked back after Kai had spoken again. “I have a heat lamp in my room.” The master of fire was calm as he spoke, looking up ahead at the wall. “I use it every night.” Zane stared at him in some form of confused frustration. “The fuck are you talking about, how's this any relevant to the conversation-” “I have to keep my body temperature high. Otherwise I'll go poof.” The last part was spoken through a hush, along with a mimic of a small explosion done by the master of fire with his hands. Once they rested back at his legs, Red took another prolonged pull from the half finished cigarette between his fingers. “Usually the other Kai doesn't have such problems. But since I'm a shadow my internal source is limited. It's like a battery that I have to recharge every day. Or couple of hours if I use my powers too much. Otherwise I might as well be a walking corpse, talking best case scenario.” That… was new. Now that he brought that up, Zane figured that he never had put much thought into why Kai always seemed subtly eager to go back to his room right after a fight. Not to mention why he'd sleep so much. The big projectors which he had Jay install on the ceiling of his bedroom finally made sense. At first he thought it was some exaggerated attempt at being fancy given they had this weird side function as LED lights. That also explained why his room was always warmer. Or why he'd be so worn out after they'd be intimate, along with why he always insisted they do it only in his room. Zane's own internal source was what could kill him if he overdoes it or if Kai didn't get enough heat in time. “Why are you telling me this?” Red eyes followed the blown out cigarette smoke while the brunette tilted his head to look back down at his companion. “If I know your weakness you'll know about mine. It's only fair, don't you think?” Zane's brows furrowed, small suspicion hidden in his gaze. “Since when do you give a fuck about fair?” “Since it involves us.” His answer came in with no hesitation, nor time for any doubt as their eyes met. “You're worried that I'll use something about your system against you. Now you know about my weakness and we're even. You and I both have a chance to stab each other in the back.” “You're a moron.” Kai shrugged. “Maybe. But I trust you.” Hesitance flash in Zane’s eyes as his programming came up with another question. “Why?” “I just do.” So short and simple, as if he didn't just give him the information which may cost him his life. This guy really was a fool. He basically signed his own death sentence. But…In spite of that, the knowledge that he trusted him enough to expose himself like that did slightly ease Zane's worries, as much as he may deny it. They spent the next few seconds in silence, having a stare down to see who might cave in or break the silence first. In most cases such a conversation would get a rise out of the nindroid, leading to a fight, but with the fight earlier he was more than drained. The exhaustion was making it hard to argue. Too much had happened for the past 24 hours. With a sigh, his head turned away, he let one of his arms spread out, a clear invitation which the master of fire took as the end of the conversation. Sliding off the armrest and into Zane's lap, Kai comfortably leaned on him, one hand around his shoulder while a titanium one found its place around his waist. The temperature difference was something expected at the start of their affair, even the smallest of contact made it hard to ignore. At first Zane was reluctant to touch him, he never found physical contact something he enjoyed or of any value. But it was hard to ignore the weird comfort that came with it after he got used to and accepted the fact that Kai was a touchy person. The two stayed in silence, Zane's whiskey almost finished as Kai's cigarette was long gone, disposed of in the ashtray on the table.
Walking down the hallway to where the bizarro guessed the comotion would be, Zane and Cole’s double were alone again. None of them made a move to speak, but the silence wasn’t something unbearable. If anything, it helped them collect their thoughts and process all that happened. Their footsteps echoed through the quiet walls of the base, slightly out of rhythm given Cole's injuries, as Zane would peek over his shoulder to see if he's fine when he'd notice he'd fallen behind a little. As they got to the living room the white ninja held out his hand at the first step, earning a chuckle from the raven who just accepted the help given to him. “You know it's just a small limp right? It's nothing serious.” “I do.” Zane’s voice was quiet as he stared at Cole's feet, making sure he wasn't about to step into any rubble and potentially trip or step askew. “But that doesn't mean I'm not concerned for your health.” “Snow, I'm fine. I've been done worse before, a slower pace isn't something fatal.” Calloused hand gave a squeeze around slim fingers as he took the final step down to the main level of the room, coming to a stop beside the nindroid. There was a small tug at his lip, which would falter for a blink here and there if he'd put too much pressure on his leg, but nonetheless it never completely vanished. “You doing okay?” Blinking, Zane turned back to face his lover, a bit taken back by the question. Still, he took a second to consider his answer before a small sigh left his lips. “I'm alright. Just worried Kai might go crazy when we get home.” Cole chuckled. “Yeah, I figured he wouldn't be happy with that.” Pushing his hands in the pockets of his cargos, the two continued down to the hallway on the left. “Seriously though, how are you holding up? You immediately started patching me up, I didn't get the chance to see if you’re injured.” A small smile broke on the nindroid’s lips. “I’m fine. I barely engaged in the fight, I spent most of the time trying to explain the situation to Kai… And then deal with your Jay.” “Yeah. Sorry about him.” “Oh, no, don’t be. I should’ve expected he’d be…” Zane’s eyes squinted as he waved his hand around, trying to think of a proper word. Cole cocked an amused brow, a small smirk tugging at his lips.“A dickhead?” “...Yeah, I guess that’s the word.” The bizarro scoffed a bit before looking back at the ground, watching his steps. As they turned the corner the faint echo of Kai’s voice reached their ears, along with Bizarro Jay’s laughter. This wasn’t going to be pretty it seemed, now that Zane noticed the burn marks on the walls and the floor. Great, Kai’s gone full ‘fuego’ as Jay would say. With a sigh, White raised his hand and used his powers to extinguish a probably stolen, half burned painting hanging on the wall. Cole whistles beside him. “Damn, poor girl.” “No, he means well,” Zane sighed as he came to the conclusion that the comment was made in regards to Nya. “He’s just not the best at handling stuff regarding her, especially her well-being or affairs. He was on Jay’s tail for the first 3 months after he and Nya became a part of the team.” “He and Nya?” “Yeah. She may not have elemental powers, but it does not make her a lesser member.” Cole thought for a while before shrugging. “Nah, you’ve got a point. The girl’s intimidating, bet she can hold up a fight.” He stopped for a second to stomp a small piece of the burning carpet out with his good leg. “And you do have a 10 year old on board so.” “7.” “He’s 7? ” Zane nodded at the dumbfounded tone in which the raven spoke. “Gods, you guys have fucked up morals.” “We are not the ones who almost leveled a mall to the ground.” “Yes, but we don’t have literal children on the team.” “I… see your point. But all of us joined at relatively early teen years as well. I was approximately 17 when I got recruited by Sensai Wu.” “You’re lying.” Zane shook his head, all the while the bizarro stared at him both worried and puzzled. “How old are you now? Just- just for the record.” “Approximately 19.” “Why do you keep saying 'approximately'?” Zane stayed silent for a few seconds, just staring at his companion. He was hesitant on whether or not now was a good time to explain the whole ordeal with his father turning off his memory when he died and therefore not actually sure how old he was, or how long he had been alive prior to his father’s death. “It’s a long story, now’s not the time.” Cole seemed to take that as an answer, since he didn’t push on the matter further. Zane furrowed his brows and turned to the raven again. “Why do you ask? You guys are the same ages as us.” “Nope.” “What- what do you mean ‘nope’?” “Same as the last names. We appear your age but if we talk logically, and take into account when we were summoned, we're..what, a little over 1 year old? It's best to think we don't have ages, nor birthdays, not that we'd grow old.” Cole, with way too much ease, was quick to add to the puzzled look Zane gave him. “We're shadows. Since the rules of age don't apply to us, therefore we won't grow old. Like, ever . We stay the same even if we're 30, 40 or 100.” O…kay, wow, Zane should definitely ask him more about the whole clone ordeal later. First no last names now they don't age? Not that Zane would really age as well in perspective, he was a nindroid. Sure, he could always work out a camouflage to appear older, but that doesn't overrule the fact- Zane's thought process was cut midway as he registered the information from a different perspective. Cole can't grow old. And he'd always look the same young adult he appears to be now. Zane also can't say the rules of a normal human's life cycle apply to him. So, if the Fates were on their side… He sent a small glance at his lover, who was looking up ahead without a care, as if he didn't just confirm that in theory they have all eternity to spend together, have the circumstances allow it. Zane looked up ahead again. He'd think about this later, even if it sent a small shock of blissful thrill through his wires. As the duo approached a corner, the voices of their teammates now audible, Cole had to pull the nindroid back from a shot of lightning which left burn marks on the wall. “Fuck’s sake they’re worse than when it’s our Kai.” “You know, I’m becoming very grateful they’re your problem.” Zane's voice was a little strained as he was half leaning against Cole, who had his hands under his arms to keep him on his feet. “Oh, Jay’s gonna be yours as well, now that it's out in the open that he’s dating Nya.” Zane just let out a slightly prolonged, very tired sigh as he regained his balance and stood on his own again. “Let’s just get them off each other before they cause more severe damage.”