Vices and Maces

Chapter 63: Oh Some Fluff! Oh...

CW: blood, grief

When Roman had given Janus Virgil's message, the shifter almost went to the factory himself. They explained what the flashing light meant, but... at some point they realized it would put Virgil in more danger if they went to the factory. As long as the light isn't flashing, he's safe... right?

So they tried to relax with Remus, watching a movie in their room. At first it felt impossible to relax, but this was Virgil! He's smart enough to get himself to safety... He has to be. Could Janus get to the factory in time? They did last time, but would it be fast enough this time?

Remus must have noticed they weren't calming down because he took their hand and started to rub his thumb in circles.

"I'm sure Virgil will be okay, just let yourself be distracted. If he needs help, he'll tell you," the halfling reassured.

"I know, I know, you're right." Janus leaned against his shoulder. "I just don't want him to get hurt."

"You're very protective of him."

"Of course I am, he's like a brother. Hell, I'm protective of everyone I care about, I would be just as worried if it was you."

"Oh." Remus was caught off guard by the vulnerability, his face turning a darker green.

Janus looked up at him. "Did that fluster you? Are you kidding?" They laughed.

"I didn't expect it! I thought we were focused on Virgil!"

The shifter smiled deviously. "Well I know a way I can be distracted... I wonder how green you can get?"

"That's just mean! You wouldn't dare!" Remus squeaked, shrinking back.

Janus put a hand on Remus's waist and sat up so they weren't slouching, leaning forward. "Or would I?"

"Unless you're gonna fuck me, I..." Remus laughed, his face getting hotter.

"Hm, maybe not while your kid is in the house. May I?"

Their faces were so close, only a centimeter between their noses. Remus nodded and Janus pressed a kiss against his lips. Remus sighed softly through his nose as he leaned in, but Janus pulled away too fast.

"More?" Remus asked, his face a dark shade of green.

Janus cupped his cheek. "Of course dear."

They leaned in closer and this time the kiss lasted longer. However, before they could deepen it, a light flashed in their eyes. Both of them pulled back and Janus opened his eyes to see it was his bracelet.

"Shit." There was no need to even call Virgil. Janus pushed himself out of bed and grabbed two shoes, pulling them on as fast as he could. "I need to go to the factory."

"Wait, you can't go alone! What if you're caught! You could get hurt again, or worse!"

"Virgil will die if I don't help him, I can't let that happen!"

"I know, I'm saying I'm coming with you! I'll go get Roman."

Janus found his dagger and put it away. "I'm heading out now, I can't wait for you guys."

Remus nodded as the shifter went to the window. "We'll be right behind you."

Janus opened the window and shifted into a hawk, diving out and flying higher into the night sky. Remus wasted no time in rushing to his brother's room.

Janus flew as fast as they could, pushing on even as his wings started to ache. The factory was far from here, on the other side of town. It felt like they had been flying for hours before they even reached the forest, but this is their fastest avion form.