Always Watching: Hu/AA/R *Finished*

[Bassman4566]

Hey Neko in your fic with Enzan and Neko-Netto in the second Chapter you made Enzan give Netto a bath care to bring that back?
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Rukario
credit to orinigal owner

"That's all she wrote" Syrus Trusdale

[Neko]

Later that evening Leon said goodnight and left Laika and Netto so he could make it home in time to not freeze to death outside. Netto yawned and flopped onto the couch grinning happily. “Feel better?” Laika asked him.

Netto nodded, “Yeah, I feel a lot better now.”

Laika nodded, “That’s good. I was getting worried.”

Netto laughed shortly. “Aw, concerned for me? What happened to the cold bastard image?”

Laika snorted, “You of all people should know by now that I only give respect to those that earn it.”

Netto grinned, “And boy do you have high standards.”

Laika crossed his arms. “Of course. I need to be careful with who I surround myself with.”

“Tell me,” Netto said while propping his head on his arm and looking at Laika through slitted eyes, “Are you always so paranoid, or is it just something I tend to notice.”

Laika shrugged, “I don’t know. Am I really paranoid?”

Netto looked at Rockman who was in his PET at the time. Then they both looked back at Laika. “Yes,” they said flatly.

Laika blinked, “Really?” he asked.

“Yes,” Netto and Rockman said again.

“It’s not necessarily a bad thing, Laika-san,” Rockman said. “But you are paranoid.”

“Huh,” Laika muttered. “Well, it is something I don’t tend to think about,” he said.

Netto laughed, “No kidding,” he said dryly.

“I don’t ever recall asking your opinion, Netto,” Laika replied.

Netto shrugged, “And I should care… why?”

Rockman and Searchman both hid laughs for Laika’s sake while he fixed Netto with a death glare. “You walked right into that,” Netto told Laika offhandedly.

Laika sighed and picked up the now empty tea cups. “Right,” he muttered.

Netto stretched and yawned, then he stood up as well. “I think I’m going to bed,” he said.

“Already?” Laika asked.

Netto raised an eyebrow, “Already?” he asked.

“You spent the whole day sleeping,” Laika told him while he washed the cups in the sink.

Netto realized his mistake. “Well you know… I’m just kinda out of it…”

“You’re still tired from the virus,” Laika said as he came back out from the kitchen. “You just don’t want to tell me because you think I’ll hover over you.”

“How the hell do you do that?” Netto asked.

“Do what?” Laika replied.

“Tell me everything I’m thinking,” Netto said.

Laika gave Netto a mysterious grin, “It’s a secret,” he said. “I just know how to read people well.”

“Oh,” Netto said in an offhand way.

“And if you’re tired, then you should go to bed,” Laika said in a dismissing tone.

Netto smiled, “All right, I’ll see you in the morning,” he said.

“See you,” Laika replied.

Netto picked up his PET and disappeared into his room while he and Rockman talked softly. After about ten minutes their quiet murmur stopped and Laika peeked in to see Netto curled up around his PET, fast asleep.

Laika sighed, covered up Netto and shut the door before taking his own shower. When Laika finally got into bed Searchman came up in the closest monitor. “Going to bed, Laika-san?”

“Yes,” Laika replied evenly. “Why?”

“No reason, you just seemed a little on edge earlier,” Searchman replied.

Laika sighed, “Just… keep an eye on the up to date news for me please,” he said.

“Yes, Laika-san,” Searchman replied.

“Oh, and Searchman?” Laika asked.

“Yes?” Searchman replied.

“If anything does happen… tell me quickly,” Laika said.

Searchman nodded, “I’ll make sure too.”

Laika gave his navi a small grin, “Thank you, Searchman.”

“As always, it is an honor, Laika-san,” Searchman assured him.

Laika’s grin broadened into the first smile Searchman had seen in months. “Thank you,” Laika said again. “For everything.”

Searchman nodded and left the computer with out another word. “I know, Laika-san,” he said to himself. “And I thank you.”

~/~/~/~/~/~/~/~/~/~/~/~/~/~

The next morning Netto groaned as he slowly stirred to life under his many sheets. /Morning, sleepyhead,/ Rockman teased.

/Just talk to me,/ Netto groaned.

/I doubt you’d hear me under all those blankets,/ Rockman pointed out.

/Touché,/ Netto muttered as he slowly crawled out of his burrow.

Rockman laughed softly. “Not really, just common sense.”

“Logic, arguing, it’s all the same to me,” Netto yawned as he appeared to the real world. He winced as the morning sunlight hit his dilated eyes.

“Any news?” Rockman asked.

“Huh?” Netto turned to see Searchman in the monitor. “Oh, hey!” he waved.

Searchman blinked once then lifted his paw in a solitary wave and quickly dropped it. “No news yet,” he told Rockman.

“Too bad,” Netto yawned. “But at least it’s being tracked, right?”

“Yes,” Searchman said. “We’re not sure where it is trying to go, however.”

“Web nets?” Netto asked.

“I’m afraid so,” Searchman replied.

“Web nets?” Laika asked.

Netto blinked and turned to his friend, “Some thing I know that you don’t, well this is a first,” he grinned.

“What’s a web net,” Laika asked again while ignoring Netto’s jeer.

“It’s several crossing points put all into one link. Kinda like an intersection on a street,” Rockman said. “We can’t track the virus very well because it’s using the web nets as hopping points so we can’t tell where it is until it’s next hop.”

“Oh,” Laika said.

“I’m surprised you didn’t know that,” Netto said.

Laika shrugged, “I’m a solider, not a programmer.”

Netto laughed and hopped out of bed, “Fair enough,” he said. “So, what’s on the agenda today.”

Before Laika could reply there was a small note in the air before Rockman opened a new e-mail. “Who is it?” Laika asked.

Rockman blinked, “I… can’t tell. It seems to be a web net point though.”

“Where?” Netto asked.

Rockman traced his paw over the image. “On the base…” Rockman said slowly. “Is there a large intersection on base?” he asked Searchman.

“Of course,” Searchman replied.

Rockman frowned, “A prediction?” he asked.

Netto looked at the map and noticed a small paw print in the corner. “Try… an invitation,” he muttered.

“By who?” Laika asked.

“The virus?” Searchman followed up his operator.

“Oh it’s smart enough,” Netto said darkly.

“You’re joking,” Laika said.

Netto shook his head, “I wish,” he muttered.

Laika groaned and held his head. “Send that to Leon,” he said. “Netto, you stay here.”

“But…” Netto began to protest.

“I have more catnip,” Laika said dangerously.

“You wouldn’t dare…” Netto hissed, his tail puffing out slightly.

“Oh?” Laika asked. “Wouldn’t I?”

Netto glared at him, “You can’t keep me out of this!”

“Yes, I can,” Laika told him. “And I will, by any means necessary.”

~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Damn that pesky virus XDDDD
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Roses are #FF0000, violets are #0000FF. All my base are belong to you.

Avatar, credit Yakitate@devart

[Midnight]

Aww...blackmail is something that is not used often, but it is usually done well. And yet, I have a good feeling that Netto will weasel his way out of this "ultimatum" and confront the virus head on.

As for the rest of the chapter...it was great. Seeing Laika react to Netto, even implicitly, is something that often puts a smile on the reader's face, and this is no exception. Good job. :D
_________________
Today, these three players are after Big Bucks! But they'll have to avoid the Whammy, as they play the most exciting game of their lives! From Television City in Hollywood! It's time to 'Press Your Luck!'--Rod Roddy

The Kingdom of Loathing: An Adventurer is You! // I ♣ Seals

Avatar by Spork. I very much appreciate it! <3

[kuro-kitsune]

I love this fic way too much.

and the catnip threat rears its head again! Flee netto~~

Awesome chapter, and i'm eager to see what happens next... But then agian, who isn't? ;P

~kuro-kitsune~

[Neko]

“But…” Netto protested. “Come on Laika I know more about the Neko Virus then anyone else. I’ve already fought it and Rockman’s defeated it before. Why are you so worried?”

“Netto, you can’t go out there for several reasons, one, you’re still infected. Two, the virus I dangerous and if you have defeated and if it is as smart as you say then chances are it could attempt some kind of revenge. Three, this is a Sharro military base and you’re not even supposed to be here. Okay?” he snapped.

“No,” Netto growled back. “I want to fight.”

“I know you do, but you can’t. It’s too dangerous,” Laika replied coolly, “Just let me take care of it.”

“I can handle it!” Netto yelled back. “I don’t need to be watched over like a little kid.”

“I’m not saying you’re inept Netto. I’m saying going outside would just be a plain bad idea, that’s all,” Laika hissed back. “It’s not you I’m worried about, it’s about everything else!”

Netto crossed his arms, “I can take care of myself,” he said with an angry glare. “I want to go.”

Laika shook his head, “No, and I already said I’ll make sure you don’t.”

Netto glared at the taller boy. “You know you can’t keep me here anyways, even with the catnip.”

“Is that a threat?” Laika asked in a low voice.

Netto eyed him, “You started it, Mr. I-have-the-catnip.”

Laika rubbed his forehead, “Netto, please. Just… this once stay here.”

“Last time I stayed here you nearly froze to death outside!” Netto yelped.

Laika glared at Netto and immediately he knew he went too far. “That was an accident, Netto,” Laika said in a dangerous voice.

Netto knew it was against his better judgment to continue the argument but he couldn’t help it. “I will do whatever I want,” he said huffily.

Laika fixed him with an icy stare and turned his back to him. “Fine,” he growled.

Netto blinked and went into his bedroom to retrieve his PET. “If you think it stops at that you’re insane,” Rockman told Netto quietly.

Netto shrugged, “Yeah well… maybe he just stopped so we wouldn’t argue anymore.”

Rockman made a worried sound but didn’t really say anything. Maybe Netto was right, maybe Laika was just ready to call it quits and go after the virus. Netto peeked his head out into the hall and looked around, just in case. “Think Laika gave up?” he asked Rockman quietly.

“Maybe…” Rockman answered doubtfully.

Netto stepped out into the hall and sighed, “I hope I didn’t get him too upset,” he murmured.

Rockman looked around but Searchman was nowhere to be seen. “He just wants to make sure you’re safe, Netto-kun.”

Netto crossed his arms, “I don’t need protection like that,” he huffed. “I’m perfectly capable of handling things on my own.”

Rockman hid a small smile, “Whatever you say, Netto-kun.”

Laika shut the door behind him and walked out into the hall. He looked up to see Netto looking at him with a worried expression that almost made him feel guilty about what he was going to do, almost. “Laika?” he asked.

“Yes?” Laika replied.

“Are you upset, about what I said?”

Laika took in a deep breath, “No, I’m not upset,” he answered truthfully. Netto’s features relaxed into a grin and he looked at little more at ease. “However,” Laika said while tossing Netto a small object. “I still stand by what I said.”

Netto caught the package on pure reflex. Whatever it was opened as soon as it hit is hands and he dropped it in surprise. “Wha…” he said then it dawned on him when the minty smell permeated the air. “You didn’t…” he glared at Laika.

“You’re a little too trusting for your own good,” Laika muttered as Netto began to sneeze while vainly trying to dust the stuff off his hands. “I even told you what I was going to do.”

Netto sneezed again as the fine powder rose in the air. He figured Laika must have crushed it or something just to make sure. “That was low…” he muttered.

Laika stepped forward as Netto’s legs failed him and caught the boy. “I said three perfectly good reasons why you shouldn’t go out and they still remain. Not to mention if I would have just left you here you would have escaped any time you wanted. I know your skills at programming and hacking are better then you let on.”

Netto growled softly, “I don’t like you right now.”

Laika sighed, “That really doesn’t matter. I’m just keeping you from doing something stupid.”

Netto glared at him as best he could, “By doing something stupid yourself?”

Laika’s eyebrow twitched as he carried Netto to the couch. “I’ll let you have that one. I’m not exactly happy with resorting to this. But I know you and I knew that you wouldn’t give me much of a choice otherwise.”

Netto closed his eyes while Laika set him down. “I’ll get back at you,” he noted.

Laika nodded, “Feel free when I get back. I’ll see you in a few hours.”

Netto listened quietly as Laika’s footsteps got fainter and fainter. He heard the door slam and sat up holding up the small pouch that was slightly cracked open that he had let a small amount of cat nip fall out of. “Heh…” he smirked.

“I knew something was wrong when I couldn’t feel it,” Rockman gasped. “You staged that whole thing!”

“Duh,” Netto replied. “I knew Laika was going to do something. Like I would be dumb enough to fall for that.”

“You still got some though,” Rockman pointed out.

Netto made a face, “I had to let some go or he’d get suspicious. Don’t worry, I’ll be fine in a few minutes.”

“Are you sure you’re going to go?” Rockman asked.

“Don’t worry,” Netto said easily. “We’ll handle it from the background, they don’t even know where the virus is.”

“And you do?” Rockman asked.

“Nope, but I bet I can find out faster with your help,” Netto said with a hopeful grin.

“And who said I would help you?” Rockman replied.

“Come on, I know you want to catch the virus just as much as me,” Netto chided his twin. “Please?”

Rockman sighed, “If I say no will you try anyways?”

“Yes,” Netto replied simply.

Rockman shrugged, “All right then. I’ll help, but only to make sure you don’t get into too much trouble.”

“Yay!” Netto cheered. “I can’t wait to see the look on Laika’s face,” he cackled.

“I can,” Rockman muttered as he linked out of his PET and into the main computer.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Netto's a devious little brat, isn't he? XD
_________________
Roses are #FF0000, violets are #0000FF. All my base are belong to you.

Avatar, credit Yakitate@devart

[Midnight]

Indeed he is, Neko. Indeed he is.

Anyway...I did not see Netto as the one to stage his own drugging, but since Laika, for the most part, means quite a lot to him, I can see him stretch to try to defend who he cares for.

Heehee, now to see how much Netto can throw a plan off, whether it be Laika's or the virus's. Great job.
_________________
Today, these three players are after Big Bucks! But they'll have to avoid the Whammy, as they play the most exciting game of their lives! From Television City in Hollywood! It's time to 'Press Your Luck!'--Rod Roddy

The Kingdom of Loathing: An Adventurer is You! // I ♣ Seals

Avatar by Spork. I very much appreciate it! <3

[kuro-kitsune]

...

I can't decide whether to laugh at Laika for not suspecting anything, or cheer Netto on.

Ah, who cares? :D

It's so good to see that this fic isn't dead just yet!! and it's also great to be on a forum where the people know what they're doing, but I won't ramble about that now Can't wait to see the next chapter!!

*waves a Lainet banner in the air and is promptly shot by the Ennet fangirls* x_x

~kuro-kitsune~

[Kitty-Chan]

Go Netto!!! I love it when Netto gets one up on the "smart" ones. ^__^
_________________
Need more Zero/X, Netto/Rock, Rock/Netto, Forte/Netto, & Blues/Netto. PLEASE!
Ano sa...could someone please make me a Zero/X, Blues/Netto, or Forte/Netto avatar/banner? I would greatly appreciate it...
Thanks for the avatar, Mandi!
People! We need more Blues/Netto & Forte/Netto on the net. Come on; help me out here! *gives everyone her Super-Adorable Irrisistable Sad Kitty Eyes(TM)*

[Neko]

Netto dashed around the apartment for a hat, heavy coat, gloves and other winter paraphernalia so that he didn’t freeze when he left the building. He knew he was on borrowed time as far as Laika was concerned but he didn’t really care. He was going to prove he didn’t need protection from anyone else and that he could take care of himself perfectly fine.

After he pulled on heavier gloves over his thin ones he undid the electronic lock on Laika’s door in a matter of minutes. With a smirk he listened to the satisfying click as the door swung out. “Laika-san is going to kill you,” Rockman reminded him again, just to make sure Netto understood.

Netto shrugged and stepped out into the hallway. He closed the door and looked around to make no stray soldier was going to find him by accident. When he was sure the halls were clear he quietly padded down one to where the elevator was. Once on the first floor, all he needed to do was check around the small hallway in front of him then walk out of the building.

Rockman followed him in the internet. He blended in there better because he chose a public channel where other navis were going the other way once they learned of the virus’ incoming attack. Rockman sighed and patiently made his way through the crowd while Netto went ahead to where the soldiers were gathered. He ducked into an old observation tower and made sure no one was there before booting up an old computer.

“We’re going to look through this?” Rockman asked Netto.

Netto shrugged, “Better then nothing,” he said cheerfully.

Rockman shrugged and went into the computer as it booted up. He made sure to mask their IP and other signals before turning on the programs needed to find the virus. “Okay, Netto-kun, I have a very general location.”

Netto sat down in the chair without removing any of his winter clothes. It was too cold in the building to do so and he wasn’t about to play with Sharro weather. “Which one?” Netto asked.

Rockman frowned, typed a bit more and smiled, “Two now.”

“Go Rockman,” Netto cheered and began to narrow their base of searching. “Where is it…” he said slowly.

“The military seems to be having more luck then us,” Rockman noted.

“Yeah well…” Netto paused, trying to think up a retort. “I don’t care,” he said finally.

Rockman shrugged, “Fine with me,” he laughed quietly. “I’m not the one freezing in some abandoned building looking for it,” he noted quietly.

“No,” Netto answered cheekily. “You’re freezing in an abandoned computer.”

Rockman frowned, then sighed. “Don’t you want to convince me to stay?” he asked.

“I’m your little brother, it’s my job to annoy you,” Netto replied with a wicked grin as he tapped a few more buttons.

“Gee thanks,” Rockman said rather dryly. “And it’s my job to protect you,” he pointed out.

“And you are,” Netto assured him.

“I fail to see how,” Rockman replied.

“By keeping an eye on me you can make sure I don’t do anything I might regret later on,” Netto answered. “Like go chide Laika about it.”

Rockman sighed in a comically depressing way, “This is true,” he noted with a tinge of good humor in his voice.

Netto smiled and hit several more buttons as Rockman brought up a new program. A red light blipped on screen for a moment then vanished. “Did we just ping the virus?” Netto asked excitedly.

Rockman scanned the logs and nodded, “Yeah!” he replied. “I think we can use this program to get a fix on the virus. It might take several tries though.”

Netto grinned, “Finally,” he breathed and touched the same sequence of buttons. It didn’t work the second or third time, but the fourth try produced similar results to the first try. He did it again and again while Rockman ran the program until the ping fixed its self on the location and the blip remained on screen.

“We got it,” Rockman said happily.

Netto nodded, “Think you can go there and lead the military there without giving away our location.”

Rockman nodded, “I’ll do my best.” He logged out of the computer and began to head where the Neko virus was in the Sharro Base Area.

Netto watched Rockman with keen eyes as his navi went through the various back links of the area. There weren’t many, so navigation was difficult. He noted that they probably didn’t want people trying to stay hidden on a military base which was understandable but he really didn’t care.

“Take the link to your right,” Netto murmured into his PET.

Rockman nodded and did as he was told. He came out on the other end to where the Neko Virus was napping on an old digitized computer terminal. Rockman touched the link opening gently to make it visible to all of the military issue computers. Before it appeared on the maps however, the Neko Virus opened a yellow eye and sat up, grinning.

“Rockman, run!” Netto yelped into his PET as he gave his navi an Aqua Tower battle chip.

Rockman slammed his paws on the ground and drenched the virus while making a run for the link he just entered, only to find it was gone. “Netto-kun, it’s not here!” Rockman cried out.

“What?” Netto gasped. “That’s impossible, the…” he blinked as he slowly came to a realization. “It’s a trap,” he gasped.

Rockman dodged the angry cat’s blow and landed gracefully on the other side of the web page. “What are we going to do?”

Netto gave him an area steal battle chip to escape the attack. “I don’t know, can you send an e-mail?” he asked desperately.

“How about you go out and find Laika?” Rockman snapped.

“But…” Netto tried to protest.

“Netto-kun!” Rockman yelled.

Netto winced and nodded, “All right, all right, I’m going.” He turned around to leave the building, but blocking his way was a large cat with a wicked smile. “Rockman…” he asked slowly.

Rockman jumped again and rolled away to safety. “Yes, Netto-kun?” he panted.

“We forgot about the second one,” Netto told him in a slow voice.

Rockman’s green eyes widened. “Where?” he asked.

Netto backed up while the virus slowly advanced on him, “Right in front of me.”

Rockman jumped again, but this time the Neko virus managed to catch him and held him pinned to the ground. “I’m not in the best of situations myself, Netto-kun.”

The virus in front of Netto took a dive at the boy, who managed to jump out of the way before running to the back of the building. “Think it remembers us from last time?”

Rockman looked into the deep yellow eyes of the Virus that now had him pinned. He smiled sheepishly while it hissed angrily at him. “I’d say yes, Netto-kun.”

Netto slid across the slippery surface into another room where he managed to shut the door on the virus, effectively locking himself in. “I’m going to send an e-mail,” he said softly.

Rockman’s PET screen went blank as Rockman’s signal was cut off from the internet. /Rockman?/ Netto called.

/I’m here,/ Rockman replied. /It’s got me though./

/Where are you?/ Netto asked him as he typed out the e-mail to Laika.

/I don’t know, some kind of hidden link, I believe,/ Rockman replied. /I don’t know how much longer the virus is going to toy with me before it tries to delete me though./

Netto shivered, /Let’s… just not think about it right now. I’m going to send this e-mail and hopefully Laika and Searchman can help./

/Before or after Laika-san kills you for leaving?/ Rockman asked.

Netto smiled sheepishly, /I’m not going to answer that,/ he replied diplomatically.

Rockman stopped talking because his signal became too weak to establish a strong thought connection. Netto could still feel his presence so he knew the navi wasn’t in any danger at the moment. He breathed a sigh of relief and sent the e-mail to Laika’s PET. “There,” he muttered.

He blinked as the building he was in suddenly came completely online. The lights overhead turned on and the old wires began to hum with electricity. He turned around as the door wooshed open and he realized that the virus must have taken over the entire system to prevent him from locking himself anywhere.

The virus came into the room, barely managing to fit through the door. Netto looked up at the giant cat and remembered what almost happened last time they met, “Heh… you remember me, don’t you?” he asked it.

The virus meowed loudly, then hissed. Netto knew it could understand him, and he also knew it remembered their last encounter quite well. “Oh boy…” he muttered as he backed into the monitors.

The virus came up and loomed over him. He looked back, unsure of whether he should attempt to escape or try and override the system. The virus didn’t give him a chance to do either and pounced on him, pinning him to the floor, much like his navi.

He felt Rockman’s alarm and tried to assure him that he was okay, but they were just too far apart. ‘Crap…’ he muttered to himself.

~/~/~/~/~/~/~/~/~/~/~

Over aways, Laika received the e-mail from Netto as Searchman looked for the hidden virus. He scanned its contents and growled loudly. “Laika-san?” Searchman asked.

“I can’t BELIEVE this…” he hissed.

Searchman read the e-mail and sighed, “I can,” he said softly and returned to his PET as Laika dashed off to help his friend.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Tiiiiiireeeddd Neko @_@ ugh...
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Roses are #FF0000, violets are #0000FF. All my base are belong to you.

Avatar, credit Yakitate@devart

[Midnight]

And the plot continues to thicken, with no signs of letting up on the action. This was quite an engaging read.

Poor Netto...he managed to get himself trapped yet again to allow Laika to save him, but I can't help but feel this was inevitable.

I do have one question, though--when did the Neko virus manage to bifurcate itself into two entites, never mind one of them in the real realm? IT's certainly good for the plot, but it's a little hazy in my head as to how and when it happened.
_________________
Today, these three players are after Big Bucks! But they'll have to avoid the Whammy, as they play the most exciting game of their lives! From Television City in Hollywood! It's time to 'Press Your Luck!'--Rod Roddy

The Kingdom of Loathing: An Adventurer is You! // I ♣ Seals

Avatar by Spork. I very much appreciate it! <3

[Neko]

...ever seen the origanal Neko Virus ep middy? That should answer your question XD

If not, I beleive the explenation is as follows.

The virus manifests its self in the real world by a hologram. Rush's ability to appear in the real world at whim was learned from the Neko Virus.
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Roses are #FF0000, violets are #0000FF. All my base are belong to you.

Avatar, credit Yakitate@devart

[Neko]

“I told him!” Laika hissed loudly. “I told him not to go outside because things would get messy, and look what happened.”

“Laika-san, Netto-san and Rockman just don’t have that kind of personality,” Searchman said fairly.

Laika rubbed his forehead, “I know they don’t. But you’d think after all that they’d take a hint…” he sighed heavily. “Okay, I got the e-mail from an old observation building. I don’t know where Rockman is though.”

Searchman frowned, “Why don’t you plug me in and I’ll look for him.”

“Can you handle it?” Laika asked. “Or would you rather have me operating.”

Searchman shook his head, “I’ll help Rockman and you help Netto-san.”

Laika nodded and plugged Searchman into the main system. “All right, after we get them out of there, send them an e-mail once we’re safe.”

Searchman nodded, “Okay.” Laika watched silently as his navi went into the internet to look for Netto’s missing navi.

“All right Netto,” Laika muttered. “You better hope that this turns out all right, for your sake.”

~/~/~/~/~/~/~/~/~/~/~/~/~/~

The Neko Virus stared down at Netto with angry yellow eyes. “H-hello,” Netto said slowly.

It meowed loudly and hissed at him. Netto blinked then decided to keep his mouth shut for his own sake.

The cat lifted up its paws a bit and Netto took in a deep breath and sat up. The virus growled and pounced at him again but Netto managed to dodge. The virus mewled angrily and swiped a large paw at him that caught his hat and swept it off his head. “Hey,” Netto protested as he went for the hat.

The virus blinked then pounced on Netto again, holding him securely to the floor. Netto groaned as he blinked stars from his eyes. ‘It’s toying with me,’ he though angrily.

The giant virus inspected the hapless boy and meowed again. Netto slowly realized that the virus didn’t realize he was also infected with it, like his navi. ‘Of course not,’ he thought. ‘I’m human.’

The virus lay down in the middle of the floor and picked up the paws that were keeping Netto pinned to the floor. Netto turned around and backed up into the wall. The virus put a paw over Netto’s hat and smirked at him. Netto glared at the cat angrily, “That’s right, you’re about as smart as Rush, aren’t you?” he asked it.

The giant cat flashed some teeth in an unmistakable grin and mewled. Netto inched his way towards the open door but the virus was too quick for him. It reached forward and grabbed his jacked hood with its teeth and pulled him back towards it where he was held securely in its paws. “Great,” Netto hissed.

~/~/~/~/~/~/~/~/~/~/~/~/~

Rockman groaned as he tried to get free of the virus’ double. However after absorbing the energy from millions of navis all over the world, it just wasn’t possible. “Why are you doing this?” he asked as he pushed vainly against the huge paws.

The virus didn’t really reply in a satisfactory way for Rockman but he could figure that this part of the virus’ plan was revenge. And because of it he and Netto were both in danger.

“I’m amazed you didn’t go after Rush,” he said softly to himself.

The virus continued to nose Rockman around while he tried to fight back. He wasn’t hurt in any way. However, it was difficult to tell whether the cat was going to hurt him or merely continue to toy with him each time it launched a new attack.

Finally after what seemed like hours the cat fell onto the floor of the net in a heap. Rockman blinked and then gathered enough of his wits about him to attempt to log out, but before he could the virus opened an eye and pinned him on the floor with a large paw.

Rockman winced and tried to move but he knew it was futile. He looked up and saw a shadow move rather quickly. He blinked and sat up, “Searchman?” he said quietly.

Searchman came out of the shadow with a finger over his lips. Rockman nodded and watched as Searchman slowly leveled his gun at the virus.

Searchman loaded a capture bullet in the gun and when he fired the bullet opened to reveal a large net that fell over the cat.

Surprisingly the cat stayed asleep through all this, but Rockman didn’t care. He gave Searchman a grateful look as he helped Rockman out of the net and the virus’ grip. “Thanks,” he said softly.

Searchman gave him a brief smile and nodded then he opened his com link. “I have secured one of the two copies of the Neko Virus,” he announced then proceeded to give the coordinates. When he finished his message he looked at Rockman, “Let’s go.”

Rockman looked at the sleeping cat and nodded, “Ready when you are,” he said as they both linked out of the web page.

~/~/~/~/~/~/~/~/~/~/~/~/~/~

Laika ran into the building where Netto had sent his e-mail from. He crept quietly though the building and found Netto in the grip of the Neko Virus and looking very unhappy.

Laika raised an eyebrow then he realized that it was asleep. “Netto,” he said softly.

Netto looked over at Laika and sighed. “Hey Laika.”

Laika walked over and smirked. “Interesting predicament you’re in here.”

“Shut up and get me out of here,” Netto growled.

Laika crossed his arms, “Serves you right for leaving.”

Netto rolled his eyes, “Laika, lecture me after I’m not in the clutches of cat-zilla.”

Laika nodded and grabbed Netto’s hands to pull him out of the grip of the virus. “Although you’re in for quite a bit of I told you so later on,” he growled.

Netto rolled his eyes, “I’m well aware.”

Finally, Netto made his way free of the grip of the giant cat. “It’s asleep,” he said softly.

One yellow eye opened slowly, “Not anymore,” Laika hissed and pushed Netto out of the room. “Go!”

Netto didn’t need telling twice as he ran out of the building and into the blinding snow. Laika ran out behind him and quickly put his own hat on Netto’s head to hide his ears before dragging the half-blind boy through the snow.

Rockman and Searchman chose that time the return to their PET’s. “Netto-kun?” Rockman called.

Netto blinked and finally noted that he could see regardless of all the white. “Rockman, are you all right?”

“I’m fine. Why are you running?” he asked.

Netto looked behind him to see a huge cat jumping through the snow. “Heh…” he said slowly. “Funny story.”

“Ah,” Rockman said as they ran. “It woke up?”

“Yeah,” Netto said. “What about the one after you?”

“Searchman caught it,” Rockman said.

“Good work,” Laika said though his teeth.

Searchman nodded and quickly sent out a warning about the second virus to the soldiers in the area.

Laika shoved Netto into a snow bank and quickly jumped in after him while the virus jumped over them. “Wha…” Netto said surprised but was hushed as Laika put a hand over his mouth.

Netto glared at him, but Laika shook his head. ‘Not now,’ he mouthed and removed his hand.

Netto curled up and shivered a little as they sat in the snow, waiting for backup to arrive. Finally, a soldier with a sniper came in and shot out a bullet similar to that of Searchman’s. The cat growled angrily as it found its self ensnared in the net and returned to the internet to escape capture.

“Silver!” Leon yelled. “Get it!”

“With pleasure!” the girl navi cheered.

Laika and Netto couldn’t see what was going on but apparently Silver won because a minute later the mission was declared completed.

“Thank god,” Netto said happily.

~/~/~/~/~/~/~/~/~/~/~/~/~/~

Later that evening at Laika’s apartment Leon came over bearing the evening news straight from head quarters. He looked at Netto and Laika and grinned, “I have good news and I have bad news, which do you want to hear first?”

“Whichever,” Laika said coolly.

“Well,” Leon said, going on. “The good news is, we have both of the viruses and they’ve merged back into one, so there’s only one copy now. Bad news is, since it mutated, it’s going to take at least a week, if not longer to program and new vaccine program.”

Netto groaned and fell onto the couch. “A week?”

“Maybe two,” Leon said apologetically. “Sorry kid, but that’s the way things are.”

Laika sighed. “All right then.”

“At least we have the virus,” Rockman said with a grin.

Netto sat up, “This is true,” he laughed. “We don’t have to worry about any more crazy things happening.”

Laika eyed him, “Unless you cause them,” he said.

Netto blushed, “Sh-shut up.”

Leon laughed, “All right, I have to get back to my job but I thought you would want to hear what was going on. See you!” he waved and left.

Laika sighed and stood up, “Okay, now that he’s gone,” he started. Netto put his ears back and avoided Laika’s gaze. “What in the hell were you thinking?” he snapped. “I told you to stay here! You deliberately made yourself a target.”

“We caught the virus, didn’t we?” Netto said hopefully.

“But you were in danger!” he growled. “Netto, you have to be more careful or you’re going to get yourself and your navi hurt. I don’t like being upset with you, but one day if you don’t start listening to others, especially your navi you are going to end up hurting yourself and him.”

Netto’s blush deepened as he stared intently at the floor. Rockman and Searchman took that moment to quietly log out so that Netto and Laika could talk.

Laika walked over to Netto and forced him to look him in the eyes. “Netto, I know you think I’m being mean, but I’m not. I’m just concerned, and so is Rockman and Searchman and everyone else around you. You can’t not listen to people because all it does is make way for serious mistakes.”

“Sorry,” Netto mumbled.

Laika sighed and let Netto go. He sat next to him on the couch and leaned into the cushions. “Just promise me next time I ask you to do something like stay home for your own good, you’ll do it.”

Netto looked at Laika and gave him a lopsided grin. “All right, I promise.”

Laika eyed him warily, “Seriously?” he asked.

Netto nodded, “Yes, seriously.”

Rockman took in a huge breath. “Oh thank god,” he sighed.

“Stressful day?” Searchman asked him.

Rockman sat down on the floor of the net and leaned into Searchman’s legs for support. “You have no idea,” he said softly.

“At least it’s over,” Searchman said while moving Rockman forward and sitting down himself then allowing Rockman to continue leaning against him.

Rockman smiled, “Yeah, that’s true. It’s over.”

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

You didn't think I'd let this fic end that easily did ya? XD
_________________
Roses are #FF0000, violets are #0000FF. All my base are belong to you.

Avatar, credit Yakitate@devart

[Midnight]

Heh.

Anyway...that was nice. Hell, it seemed like ti could have stood alone as a fluffy vignette. I'm not sure whether that is a good thing or not...

Anyway...perhaps it's because I'm a little distracted, but I really enjoyed how this one panned out. It seems that the story is pretty much over, and the future installment or two is merely an epilogue.

Anyway...great job, and I look forward to the final parts. /o/
_________________
Today, these three players are after Big Bucks! But they'll have to avoid the Whammy, as they play the most exciting game of their lives! From Television City in Hollywood! It's time to 'Press Your Luck!'--Rod Roddy

The Kingdom of Loathing: An Adventurer is You! // I ♣ Seals

Avatar by Spork. I very much appreciate it! <3

[Kitty-Chan]

Not over yet. *hauls out her Grandma's most popular plant* Catnip, anyone? *tackled by all the cats in her house* :O
_________________
Need more Zero/X, Netto/Rock, Rock/Netto, Forte/Netto, & Blues/Netto. PLEASE!
Ano sa...could someone please make me a Zero/X, Blues/Netto, or Forte/Netto avatar/banner? I would greatly appreciate it...
Thanks for the avatar, Mandi!
People! We need more Blues/Netto & Forte/Netto on the net. Come on; help me out here! *gives everyone her Super-Adorable Irrisistable Sad Kitty Eyes(TM)*

[Neko]

The next morning Laika shook Netto awake. Netto opened his eyes slowly and looked up at his friend. “Wha?” he asked sleepily.

Laika straightened up and nodded at the clock, “It’s almost noon. Get up, please.”

Netto saw up and covered a yawn with his hand. “Noon?” he asked. “Wow, long night.”

Laika shrugged, “You can’t sleep all day you know.”

Netto nodded and rolled out of bed. “I know,” he said fairly. “Twelve hours isn’t a bad aim,” he said with a grin and side stepped Laika to walk out of the room.

Laika shook his head while covering a tiny grin that played on his lips. “You sleep way too much,” he told Netto.

Rockman appeared on the hallway monitor as Netto disappeared into the bathroom to clean his teeth and get dressed. “He actually has always slept like that,” Rockman told Laika with a smile.

Laika shrugged and returned to the kitchen, “I figured as much,” he replied. “Netto doesn’t strike me as one who would enjoy waking up early.”

Rockman shook his head, “Nope.”

Netto attacked Laika from behind five minutes later as he made crepes for breakfast. “Hello,” he said into Laika’s ear as he looked over Laika’s arm. “Watcha doing?”

Laika jumped and splashed batter on himself. “Netto!” he gasped, not realizing it was Netto until he was practically on top of him.

“So?” Netto asked, looking up at him.

“So, what?” Laika asked.

“What are you making?”

Laika blinked then looked at the pan. “Crepes, for breakfast. We can fill them with bananas and fruit.”

“Yum,” Netto said with a smile.

Laika felt a blush threaten to tinge his cheeks as he looked down at Netto so he turned his gaze back to the pan. “Yeah. They’re my favorite breakfast food,” he muttered.

Netto walked over to Laika’s other side and peered over his arm to get a view of his new angle. “Can I help?” he asked.

Laika looked down at him, “No.”

Rockman and Searchman watched as Netto and Laika bickered over the frying pan. Searchman noted that Laika’s cheeks turned red briefly even while he was arguing. Rockman noticed it too and smiled, “Laika-san’s changed lately.”

Searchman looked down at Rockman and shook his head, “No. Just with Netto-san. He’s still fairly indifferent.”

Rockman blinked, “Really?” he asked.

Searchman nodded, “Yeah. Laika-san isn’t one to change his nature so quickly.”

Rockman frowned, “No, I wouldn’t think so.”

“Well, Laika-san is not one to wear emotions on his sleeve, if you’re thinking of doing anything I would suggest against it. Laika-san takes things at his own pace,” Searchman said while giving Rockman a side long glance. “Otherwise he’ll just freeze up again.”

Rockman rubbed his ears nervously, “I wasn’t planning to do anything,” he said innocently.

Searchman gave him a tiny smile that Rockman returned in full. “That obvious?”

“Playing navi matchmaker for your brother and Laika-san isn’t the best idea,” Searchman told him fairly.

Rockman sighed, “I know, but unless Laika is direct Netto-kun won’t realize it,” he said with a frown.

Searchman nodded at him, “He’s not the only one,” he murmured.

“Hm?” Rockman asked.

Searchman shook his head, “Nothing.”

Netto walked over to the monitor, covered in flour. “Oops,” he said softly. “Hey Rockman, can you do me a favor?”

“Sure,” Rockman said as he watched Laika sigh heavily and pull out a wash cloth.

“Can you go to papa and ask him just when the vaccine will be ready?” he asked. “And to tell him we’re fine.”

Rockman nodded, “Think it’s safe for me to go out?”

“Yeah, I don’t think anyone will ask any questions. If you run into any one, then just tell them I’m on a mission. Kay?”

Rockman nodded, “Will do. Beware of Laika,” he laughed as he linked out.

Netto blinked confusedly as Laika put the wash cloth on his head. “Stay out of the flour,” he said in a low voice.

Netto jumped and squirmed as Laika tried to get the flour off of Netto. “Laika-san?” Searchman asked.

Laika sighed, “Follow Rockman. Make sure nothing happens.”

Searchman nodded and logged out.

“Lemme go,” Netto growled.

“You need to stay out of the flour,” Laika sighed as he got the remainder of the flour off of Netto’s head. “It gets everywhere.”

“I didn’t mean to,” he groaned. “The container is on a shelf. Who puts their flour container on a shelf?”

“I do,” Laika growled. “Because my kitchen is small and there’s no room.”

Netto pushed his way out of Laika’s grip and shook the remaining flour out of his hair. “Sorry,” he murmured.

Laika shook his head, “It’s fine,” he told him. “Want some breakfast?”

Netto looked at the steaming crepes on the counter in and grinned. “Yes please.”

~/~/~/~/~/~/~/~/~/~/~

Later that day Netto was lounging on the couch as Laika sat across from him, flipping through channels. Netto eyed him lazily, “Have another cat nip toy?” he asked.

Laika frowned and turned on a random TV show. “No, I don’t. Why, want some?”

Netto growled, “Watch it.”

Laika turned of the TV. “Sorry.”

Netto sat up, “You’re apologizing?” he asked.

Laika crossed his arms, “Is it illegal?”

Netto shook his head, “No, just surprising,” he said with a grin. “I remember when you would have said something like that and just been mean about it.”

“Yes, I was a jerk before,” Laika growled. “I know.”

It was now Netto’s turn to apologize. “Sorry,” he mumbled.

Laika shook his head, “It’s all right.”

Netto smiled and sprawled out again, this time with his head in Laika’s lap. “Touch me ears and die,” he said cheerfully before falling asleep.

Laika smirked and began to scratch his ears as soon as he drifted off. “Good night,” he murmured.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Short but I'm so tired ;-;
_________________
Roses are #FF0000, violets are #0000FF. All my base are belong to you.

Avatar, credit Yakitate@devart

[kuro-kitsune]

o__o

Sempai is a genius, if she can write something this short and sweet while she is tired. Un un.

Wai!!! I now completely remember why I love this fic so much!! >v< b It's sad and relieving to know that this story is starting to come to a close. This was a fun fic to read (and best Lainet I've read so far).

~kuro-kitsune~

[Kitty-Chan]

I'm sad to see it coming to an end, but I can't wait to find out how everything works (or doesn't work) out.
_________________
Need more Zero/X, Netto/Rock, Rock/Netto, Forte/Netto, & Blues/Netto. PLEASE!
Ano sa...could someone please make me a Zero/X, Blues/Netto, or Forte/Netto avatar/banner? I would greatly appreciate it...
Thanks for the avatar, Mandi!
People! We need more Blues/Netto & Forte/Netto on the net. Come on; help me out here! *gives everyone her Super-Adorable Irrisistable Sad Kitty Eyes(TM)*

[Midnight]

Indeed, this is indicative of an epilogue, as the main conflict is pretty much over and the story is drawing to a close.

Now, the focus shifts to the developing relationship between Laika and Netto, and it's done quite well. It seems Laika's stoic nature is beginning to break down, at a faster pace than the previous chapters. That makes for some rather cute scenes. As always, I look forward to the seemingly last few chapter(s).

And Neko, if you're tired, just don't update. The people can wait...
_________________
Today, these three players are after Big Bucks! But they'll have to avoid the Whammy, as they play the most exciting game of their lives! From Television City in Hollywood! It's time to 'Press Your Luck!'--Rod Roddy

The Kingdom of Loathing: An Adventurer is You! // I ♣ Seals

Avatar by Spork. I very much appreciate it! <3

[Neko]

The next morning Netto woke up slowly, he felt safe and content and so there was no reason to jolt out of his comfortable mood quite yet. Above him he heard a soft noise and he slowly realized that Laika had never put him to bed. Rather, Laika fell asleep sitting up, with his hand on Netto’s head.

Netto chuckled and sat up slowly, pushing Laika’s hand away. Then he leaned over and peered into Laika’s face, getting very close. “I told you to leave my ears alone,” he said warningly while trying not to laugh.

Laika’s eyes fluttered as he woke up. He was up very late the night before watching Netto and debating whether to carry him to bed or not. He figured that he must have fallen asleep while contemplating. “Hm?” he mumbled.

“Wake up,” Netto said in a loud voice jerking Laika out of his half asleep state.

Laika’s eyes flew open to see a pair of slitted brown ones VERY close to his. He took in a deep breath and fought down a blush. “M-morning,” he said quietly.

Netto laughed, noting his obvious cause of discomfort in his friend. He didn’t know WHY it made Laika uncomfortable but he knew it did and that was enough reason to do it. “Hey,” he said cheerfully.

“Get off me,” Laika told him.

“Why?” Netto asked with a smirk. He was going to be as annoying as he possibly could to get back at Laika for deliberately touching his ears.

“You are way too close to me,” Laika told him sternly. “Get off, now.”

“Aww,” Netto stuck out his lower lip in a pout. Also, although Laika didn’t think it was deliberate, but his ears also dipped a little in an attempt to make his pout even more affective.

Laika blinked and slowly realized just how cute Netto looked, even if he was also really annoyed with him. “Get. Off. Now.”

Netto braced his arms against Laika’s shoulders and pushed himself up. He crossed his arms over his chest. “You’re no fun,” he remarked.

Laika shrugged, “I don’t care if I’m fun or not. You were too close.”

“And you touched my ears,” Netto retorted.

Laika blinked, “And how would you know that?” he asked, in spite of himself.

“You fell asleep with your hand on my head,” Netto told him.

Laika was impressed in spite of himself. It seemed that Netto was far more observant then he had previously shown to other people. “You notice a lot more then you tell people, don’t you?” he asked Netto suddenly.

Netto blinked, “Well, I don’t know.” He looked slightly confused. “What do you mean?” he asked.

“You noticed that my hand was on your head,” Laika told him.

“Yeah? So?” he replied.

“So, if you were truly as unobservant as you let people think you are you wouldn’t have noticed that,” Laika explained.

“Oh,” Netto said simply. Then he shrugged, “Well I guess so.” He never really had thought about it before. He still wasn’t sure what Laika was trying to say.

Laika rolled his eyes. It was amazing how observant and yet how dense Netto could be. At the same time, no less. “Never mind,” he said with a careless wave of his hand.

“All right,” Netto murmured as he watched Laika stand up.

Laika walked to the kitchen and got the pan out with a sigh. Some thing wouldn’t change about Netto, his incredible denseness must have been one of those things. “It doesn’t bother me as much, though,” he realized. He liked Netto just the way he was.

~/~/~/~/~/~/~/~/~/~/~/~/~/~/~/~

Later that day both boys were lazing about, waiting for their navis to return. It wasn’t long before Netto began to complain of boredom to Laika.

“Netto, please stop,” Laika told him sincerely.

“I can’t help it,” Netto said with a heavy, over-acted sigh as he hung upside-down from the couch. “I’m bored!”

“Then go…” Laika stopped. He had almost said, ‘then go do something’ but he realized that telling Netto such a thing wasn’t an option the other boy could enjoy.

“Laika,” Netto growled softly. He knew where that train of thought was going.

“Sorry,” Laika said quickly. “I didn’t mean it like that.”

Netto stared up at the ceiling and wiggled his ears until they rested against the back of his head. Not only was he bored, but he was also upset.

“Netto?” Laika asked, looking from his novel to peer at the unhappy boy.

“I am so sick of staying inside,” he complained. “I just… want to go home.”

Laika winced and put his book away. “I’m sorry,” he said softly.

“For what?” Netto asked. “It’s not your fault.”

“No, but I’m also the one keeping you inside,” Laika pointed out. He knew that Netto did blame him for that much.

Netto made a face. “True,” he admitted. “But it’s also for my own good, and I know that as well. I’m just tired of it. Tired of everything.”

“Tired of me?” Laika teased with a half grin.

Netto’s eyes widened as he flipped over. “No!” he said, slightly offended.

“I was joking,” Laika told him. He was slightly surprised at how violently Netto had reacted to his little tease. “I didn’t mean it.”

“Oh,” Netto mumbled, blushing a scarlet hue. Then his eyes shifted to the side, slyly. “You can tease?” he asked Laika dubiously.

Laika glared at Netto. “I would hope after living with me so long you would understand that I’m not the ‘ice cold jerk from Sharro’ anymore.”

Netto looked away. “Ah… you heard that rant?” he asked. He remembered yelling to Rockman after the incident with Videoman. In all actuality, he had called Laika much worse things then what the aqua haired soldier had just reiterated to him.

“Yes. Your language can be very, erm…” Laika paused, turning over his next phrase carefully, “colorful.”

Netto grinned, “Rockman has told me that, many times,” he assured his friend.

“Oh, somehow I don’t doubt that,” Laika replied. “Regardless, yes, I can tease and no, don’t you dare take advantage of it.”

Netto chuckled, “I didn’t plan to,” he told Laika. “So don’t worry.”

Laika stood up and sat next to Netto on the couch. “Should I worry? You certainly seem to be quite a handful.”

Netto crossed his arms, “Not my fault,” he said huffily. “This stuff just… happens! I don’t ask for it to, it just does.”

Laika let amusement dance in his eyes as he eyed Netto’s increasingly puffed out tail. “I know. No one would ask for such a thing to fall on him. I didn’t mean it like that.”

“Then what did you mean?” Netto asked him, obviously scandalized by Laika’s comment.

“You’re so,” Laika tried to think of a way to say it that wouldn’t offend Netto. “You’re so energetic, Netto. It’s very hard to keep up with you.”

Netto peered at Laika and Laika stared back, unsure of what was going on behind those chocolate brown eyes. “Is that bad?” Netto asked finally.

Laika shook his head, “No.” The answer was simple enough but Netto seemed to take it in a stride.

Netto smiled and leaned back. “Well, there you go then.”

“Being with you isn’t bad,” Laika told him. “It’s just,” completely and utterly exhausting, Laika thought, “interesting.”

Netto giggled, “Yay,” he said with a tiny bit of sarcasm.

Laika couldn’t help it, he had to smile as well. Slowly, he realized that he was beginning to think of Netto more and more of a close friend then merely a co-worker. Surely this wasn’t the way the ‘cold hearted’ Laika acted but he couldn’t help it. Netto was the only one to try repeatedly to be his friend even after being scorned and pushed away by the older Net Savior. Even worse, he slowly began to realize to his utmost horror, that perhaps he thought of Netto even more then a friend. That was unraveled territory, and it frightened him.

“You okay, Laika?” Netto asked his friend. He was wondering what brought on the sudden change of expression on Laika’s face.

“I’m… I’m fine,” Laika said slowly. “Netto, I’m going to go work in my room for a bit.”

Netto nodded, “All right. I’ll just hang out here then. I’ll tell you when Searchman and Rockman get back.”

“All right,” Laika agreed and hurried into the privacy of his room, leaving a very confused Netto behind.

Once he had shut the door he quickly collapsed onto his bed, slowly coming to terms with his feelings. He never had thought about it seriously before, what with incident after incident thanks to the neko virus. But, for some reason the more he thought about it the more it became clearer to him. His latest actions had been far from what someone would call ‘loving’ but they were affectionate. He cared for and respected the other boy a great deal for what he had and would undoubtedly go through in the future. He knew that for some reason or other that he was attracted to Netto. Being frankly honest with himself wasn’t easy but as he slowly admitted everything to himself the more he began to see the past few months through a different light. “Oh my god…” he said slowly as it dawned on him, “I like Netto Hikari.”

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Kekeke >3
_________________
Roses are #FF0000, violets are #0000FF. All my base are belong to you.

Avatar, credit Yakitate@devart

[Midnight]

And it seems you bring it to a colorful end (Is it the end? o_o). I was somewaht expecting this to happen, really--that's how a fic of this magnitude of fluff generally culminates into. I like how you have Laika's reaction at the end when he realizes the attraction, how he wanted it all along, but when he finally came upon it, he's somewhat revolted.

A nice, cute ending it is. Great work. :D
_________________
Today, these three players are after Big Bucks! But they'll have to avoid the Whammy, as they play the most exciting game of their lives! From Television City in Hollywood! It's time to 'Press Your Luck!'--Rod Roddy

The Kingdom of Loathing: An Adventurer is You! // I ♣ Seals

Avatar by Spork. I very much appreciate it! <3