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Chapter Text

The life he was used to called for structure. Being the CEO of a nationwide conglomerate didn’t leave much room for failure. Board meetings, business trips and conferences, his life felt…tedious. “Mr. Oguma, Mr. Tanaka is here to see you.”

“Ugh…” Oguma rubbed at his forehead. “Send him in, thank you.” He stood up to greet his visitor. “Oguma! How’ve you been?” The old moose’s bombastic personality made the stag want to throw him out the window. “I’m well, what can I do for you?” He said. “I’ll cut right to the chase. The board has raised come concerns about your family’s future standing in the company.” Tanaka sat in front of Oguma, crossing his legs.

“Concerns?” Oguma raised a brown, his intimidating presence did little to diminish the moose’s smug posturing. “Yes, concerns. You’re a middle aged divorcee with no children. Let’s face it, Oguma, you’re not getting any younger. Rex forbid anything happens to you, the entire company would be in total chaos.”

Oguma scowled. “Well…thank you for putting it so delicately.” He said flatly. “Look, don’t shoot the messenger. But if you don’t show signs of getting hitched in the next year or so…we decided that we’re gonna put to a vote to have you removed as CEO.” His blasé attitude infuriated Oguma.

“You can’t be serious.” He said, as composed as he could manage.

Tanaka scoffed, leaning back in his seat and raising a brow. “Oh, I’m very serious. The board wants an heir, it’s as simple as that. They’ve decided that you need to get married at the very least, and quick.” He was unapologetic in his attitude, his words laced with subtle threats and no small amount of arrogance.

“Get out.” The stage said with a subtle hint of malice. The moose threw his hands up. “One year, Oguma. And listen, take my advice. Get yourself a trophy wife, give her an unlimited credit card and knock her up. Work smarter, not harder.” Then he left, the sound of the door clicking shut behind him was damn near deafening. Oguma fumed.

It didn’t matter if he married or not. Rex knows he tried with his first wife. The truth was he was simply incapable of having children. All sorts of doctors, medical advice, homeopathic remedies, this and that, couldn’t make it so. And to have to admit it, was humiliating.

-

Oguma went to one of his old haunts. A jazz-style bar where he would sometimes take important clients. It was one of the only places he encountered carnivores for the most part. There were women there, beautiful does. Some his age, some much younger. His eyes lingered on one of them a little too long and she came over.

Oguma didn’t know how to be anything other than himself. And he was awkward. Pretty much inept at social interaction outside of his profession.

“Hey there.” She said, her voice soft and feminine.

“Hello.” He replied dryly.

“What’s your name?” She takes a seat beside him. Oguma shifts uncomfortably. “Oguma, and you are?” “Faline. Nice to meet you.” She offered her hand, he shook it gently. “Likewise.” They talked for what felt like hours, but when he looked at his watch it had only been about twenty minutes. Already, she looked…well… incredibly bored. “You’re so serious. What do you like to do for fun?” “Analytical risk management. Usually, I’m organizing the costs and benefits to utilizing certain resources. It keeps my mind occupied.” He said. She stared at him, blankly. “Right…”

“I’m sorry, I’m just going to run to the restroom. I’ll be right back.” He said as he got up. She nodded. “Sure.”

When he got to the restroom, he ran into one of the stalls. “I’m so fucking bad at this.” He lamented, his face in his hands.

Oguma couldn't help but dwell on the conversation, which seemed to go nowhere. The doe was pretty, he had to give her that. But he had no idea why he seemed so disinterested in her. It's not like he could just pretend to be a party animal. If the doe was into that, then he couldn't fault her for being bored. He already forgot her name.

He heard some animals come in, their loud banter disrupting his self deprecating thoughts. “Man, I could really use a beef steak or something.” One of them muttered. Oguma sat stock still. ‘Carnivores…’ he listened closely. “You know, me and the boys were gonna head down to buy some but we were thinking about buying some livestock and taking it out to that little cabin on Boerum…have ourselves a big barbecue.” The second voice tried to sound hushed, but with the echo, Oguma was sure he’d be able to hear all the way out the door. Still, he hoped there were enough scents in here to mask his.

“Sounds expensive as hell.”

“Naw, I know a place that sells them young for nearly half the price.”

“Really?”

“Yeah, man! Cost effective and easy to move.”

Oguma listened as they flushed and head to the sinks.

“Send me the info, I want in on that.”

“Sure thing. Do you smell deer?”

Oguma held his breath.

“Yeah, little bit. They’re all over the place-“

The conversation cut off as they went out the door. A place where they sell herbivore children…to be eaten?

“I couldn’t…” he said to himself. ‘They’re going to die anyway…what’s one fawn?’ The thought made his lip curl in disgust. He ran the numbers in his head, with the risk of even going near such a place, the likelihood that he would even find what he was looking for…he had to try. Oguma got up and rushed out the door heading for the exit. “Oguma?” The doe called after him. “I have to go.” He said as he walked past. She huffed.

The doe was clearly surprised by Oguma's lack of response to her. The stag wasn't rude by any means, but it was clear from their brief conversation that the two of them were nowhere near compatible. Oguma was an uptight workaholic, and she was... well, the opposite. So he couldn't help but hope that his sudden departure wouldn't affect her too much. He had more pressing matters to attend to.

-

“Sir please, I implore you to reconsider!” His personal assistant begged at he was tasked with driving the stag to the other side of town to where sources told them the black market was. “Just drive, Yuta. You don’t need to come in but I need to see this through.”

He just stood for a while looking at this place. It was like standing at the tall, daunting entrance gates to a graveyard. He can’t hide his antlers, neither could his armed security guard and so there he was, walking boldly among carnivores as they feasted on meat.

He could feel the heat of their stares, predatorial eyes bore into him as he invaded a space he did not belong. By the grace of Rex, they made it to their destination without being confronted. “Is this the place?” Oguma asked. His guard nodded. In front of them was a tower, the tall structure loomed ominously over the opportunistic CEO.

“Let’s go” They approached the door, a spotted jaguar stopped him. “Hey! Herbivore! The fuck are you doing here, you lost or something?” He said. Oguma’s guard held his rifle at the ready. “I’m here to make a purchase.” He said. “Purchase? What are you some kind of freak? Get out of here.” The feline mocked. Oguma didn’t falter, “I intend to spend a lot of money tonight.” He gestured to the briefcase he held in his hand. “If you want this, let me in.”

-

He was lead to an elevator and down to a dimly lit basement where the guard had to turn on a flashlight for them to see ahead of them.

“Anything you’re looking for in particular, sir?” The jaguar surely became cordial after getting a glimpse of what was inside that briefcase. Best of all, he stopped asking unnecessary questions. “Fawns.” Oguma said. “How about these?” They stopped at the first cage where two female white tailed deer sat huddled together. They were beautiful, shaking and frightened at the sight of them. Seeing that made it hard for him to stay objective.

He shook his head. “Red deer.” He said. “Oh yes, right this way.” He tried not to look at them again, fearing it would break his resolve. ‘Just one.’ He reminded himself. They took him to another cage, this time it housed two red deer fawns.

He just wanted to leave so badly.

“That one.” He pointed to the one on the left. The carnivore went to get it, they shuffled away from him, he grabbed the fawn but his cell mate was not having it. The little one punched and kicked, the jaguar pushed him away but he kept coming. Using his tiny body to shield the other.

“Why you little-!” He went to hit the fawn.

“Enough.” Oguma said with authority. ‘I can’t bear to see him strike them in front of me.’ He thought. “You have a strong spirit…protecting your friend like that. I admire it.” He turned to the carnivore, handing him the case. “I’ll take him.”

-

They made it past the chain link fence trying to make it back to more populated parts of the black market. Rex only knows what lurked under the darkness beyond the judgemental eyes of others.

Oguma held the little deer close to his chest having taken off his suit jacket to wrap around him. He was so cold, his little body was shivering. “You’re going to have new home soon? I bet you can’t wait to see it.” “Meh?” The fawn muttered, Oguma liked the sound of his little voice. “This morning I watched a docuseries on Louis the fourteenth, he ruled France during one of country’s most influential periods. That’s what I see in you. A leader. My Louis.” “Mah!” His little ears perked at the name.

A loud pop startled them, “MAH!” Louis cried. “Shh, it’s okay…” Oguma soothed. A second pop and the guard was down. Gunshot wound to the head. Oguma ran. He ran, holding Louis, glasses nearly flying off as he looked back, but no one was chasing them and he didn’t know where the shots were coming from.

There were trucks all lined up, it smelled like blood and decay, he climbed into one in an effort to hide. It was like a freezer inside. Full length bloody beef torsos hung from the roof of the cabin of the truck on hooks. He sank to the floor, covering Louis’s face from the sight of it. The blood from the meat was still leaking, covering the stags face.

The sounds of footsteps could be heard outside, shuffling, an exchange of words he couldn’t make out. Oguma prayed they’d just leave. “Meh?” Louis mumbled as if asking what was wrong. “Shh shh.” Oguma begged him to stay silent. He gasped when the door flew open. A lion. He pointed his gun at Oguma.

Adjusting his glasses he stepped into the truck. “What’s that you got there?” He asked. Oguma didn’t answer. He couldn’t, it was as though he was frozen. Impatient, the lion pulled away the suit jacket. “Mah!” Louis cried. Oguma was shaking, whether it was from the frigid temperature or from fear he wasn’t sure.

“What do you think you’re doing with that? It’s livestock.” The gruff voice made the stag shiver. He held up a shaking hand in surrender. “Please…It’s…he’s mine.” “What do you want livestock for, herbivore? Some kind of experiment?” “No! No…I wanted a baby. I’m infertile.” Oguma explained. “Ain’t there any orphanages where you come from?” They lions steely gaze had Oguma’s instincts screaming. “No one can know. Please…let us go. I…” he looked down to Louis to Louis’s worried little face. “I’m begging you.”

As the lion loomed over him, Oguma was completely shaken by his own lack of courage.

"Please, let us go." Oguma whimpered, his pleas and his tears breaking his pride. But his desperation was undeniable.

“Ibuki! It was an herbivore, you see anything?” Someone called out.

“I’m coming, Free.” He replied to them, turning back to Oguma. “Wait five minutes and get out.” He said, turning to leave. Oguma nodded.

Oguma held his breath, desperately trying not to make a sound. Even after the lion walked away, he was still shaking as he covered the terrified Louis in his jacket. When he was sure the coast was clear, the stag climbed from out of the truck and made his way toward the street, Louis in his arms. Oguma couldn't help but wonder what would've happened to them if he didn't have the wherewithal to plead with the lion.

Chapter Text

“Mr. Oguma?” Yuta asked, concerned. The stag sat on his knees staring at Louis.

“I…I don’t know what to do.” He said with a shaking breath. Oguma was out of his element, still trying to process what he’d done and then being chased by what he assumed were gangsters. Now, he sat in front of a child. His child.

“Well…if I may, I could run a bath for him, and then perhaps we could have a late dinner?” Yuta looked over Oguma as well, his face and shirt still stained from where he hid amongst dripping meat. “You could use a bath as well, sir.”

Oguma quickly surveyed himself and shrugged. “Later.”

When Yuta tried to undress the fawn, “MAH!” Louis flailed, trying to escape him. Oguma came running to the bathroom, his soiled shirt discarded. “What’s the matter?” He asked. “My new ward is being a little fussy.” Yuta sighed, the fawn wiggled free and ran to Oguma. “Meh?” He pointed worriedly to the bathtub. Oguma picked him up. “Get the water on.” He told Yuta.

“It’s okay, look…” He sat on the side of the bathtub gently running his hand through the warm water. “I’m right here.” He helped Louis undress and gently bathed him himself. Louis would not let Yuta dress him, Oguma had to do it. Louis would not eat unless Oguma held the spoon, and much to Oguma’s dismay, Louis would not sleep unless Oguma was in the bed.

Taking care of his latest investment turned out to be a full-time commitment.

Oguma was used to dealing with large-scale business transactions, not a small child. But as he cared for Louis, he found that his stress levels dropped significantly. It was almost as if something was overwhelming his worries and his other responsibilities. Some sorts of instincts manifesting themselves. Whatever the case, Oguma found that taking care of Louis was the least stressful thing in his life at the moment.

-

“This is absurd. You expect us to believe that you had a child over night. That’s complete lunacy.” Said one of the senior members of the board, a dall sheep, as he puffed up in his chair. The others complained in a cacophony of voices that gave Oguma a headache.

“And not only that, the mother is nowhere to be found, you say. So how could we be sure of the legitimacy of the kid?” Tanaka asked.

“Louis was the result of an affair. His mother and I simply came to a mutual understanding that he would be better off under my care and afforded all the opportunities made possible by my position. Which is why as of today, I’m his sole legal guardian.” Oguma said sternly. Tanaka just sat there with a grin, shaking his head. “How convenient for you, Oguma.”

Tanaka's grin was starting to irk Oguma more and more. But as one of the board members, he could not risk being openly rude to him. For now, he would just have to keep his composure.

“Fine, you’ve managed to cement yourself a legacy. But know this, based on suddenness which he’s appeared and the circumstances surrounding his birth, you will be under a microscope henceforth. If any salacious activity on your part comes to light, we WILL be taking that vote, right?” The sheep said.

“Right.” They answered in unison.

“Are we clear, Oguma?”

“Yes.”
-

One year later.

Oguma is glad to see how far Louis has come in his speech therapy. It’s taking time, and Louis still has trouble expressing his feelings, but he’s communicating and that eases a lot of stress for Oguma.

“Where going?” He asks as he watches Oguma adjust his tie. “You’re going for your first fitting today.” Oguma told him. “What’s fitting?” Louis gestured with his tiny hand, his little brows furrowed. “You’ll see, don’t worry.”

Oguma watched Louis as he attempted to put his shoes on. The little fawn had certainly grown a lot in the past year, and Oguma was genuinely pleased with how capable Louis had become. He was more independent and had more control over his body. Even though he still needed help.

They went a new tailor, Oguma hated change but his go-to tried and true had retired a year before he adopted Louis. Oguma was careful to navigate his way around the carnivores, trying to avoid as much interaction as possible. It was a skill he had gained from having to care for Louis, who was still terrified of the sight of them.

Yuta tried in vain to get Louis to stay still and be measured. Oguma was amused to see his defiant little huffs as the sheep chased after him, picked him up and put him back in front of the mirror. He looked up as Oguma stood beside him. “Like this. Arms out.” He demonstrated by holding his arms out. Louis imitated him, the tailor rushed to get his measurements and write them down. “Arms down, neck up like this.” He demonstrated and Louis did so as well. “Very good.”

Once Louis was done, they went to pay. Sure it was a bit impractical to get a custom suit so young but the experience just seemed worth it.

They were getting ready to leave when Louis insisted he had to use the bathroom. He graciously allowed Yuta to take him just in time as some lions entered the store. Their eyes locked for a moment before Oguma had time to avert his gaze. The lion from the black market. The stag panicked internally, figuring as long as he didn’t say anything and pretended he knew nothing, he would go about his business.

He turned to walk away, heart pounding. “How’s the kid?” He heard a voice say, He gasped with a start. “He’s well, aren’t there any decent tailors where you come from?” Oguma looked around, the lion leaned up against the counter.

“You know, that’s exactly what I said. But my boss wants a new suit and my job is to stand here and wait. And drive him back home.” The lion shrugged. “I’m surprised you remember me.”

“It wasn’t that long ago, Ibuki.” Oguma bit his tongue. Ibuki smirked. “Remembered my name, too? I must’ve made quite an impression.” “Yeah well, you killed my bodyguard. Please leave, my child is still…wary of carnivores. And as far as I’m concerned, that night never happened.” Oguma said.

Ibuki saw it in his mind. Flashbacks of that night. The terrified stag holding tightly onto that fawn. His tearful eyes, the bloody hand held in surrender as he begged for their lives. It always left a bitter taste in the lion’s mouth.

“I’m sorry…that wasn’t supposed to happen. Here.” Ibuki took one of the tailor’s business cards and scribbled something on it with one of the tiny pencils they used to mark measurements. “If you ever need another bodyguard.” He handed Oguma the card. “Are you serious?” “I can’t raise the dead. But I figure I owe you a favor.” Just then, Louis and Yuta were returning from the bathroom. “Go.” Oguma said. Ibuki nodded and left before he was seen.

-

Oguma was getting ready to leave the office for the night when his receptionist informed him of a visitor. Oguma sighed. “Send him in.”

“You’re always last to leave, Oguma.” Tanaka said as he sat across from him. “What do you want? I need to get home to Louis.” Oguma said. “Oh yes…that fawn you found that you’re trying to pass off as your son.” Tanaka leaned in. “I have sources that tell me they saw you pick him up from some rogues near the back alley. Akane used to tell me the sex was bad, but I didn’t know the equipment stopped working too.” The moose teased. Oguma’s expression hardly ever contorted with anger and even Tanaka hadn’t expected the look the stag gave him. “You’re getting to be a real thorn in my side, Tanaka. Why are you doing this? It’s been a year. And we’ve worked together almost twenty.”

“It’s because once I expose you for lying about the kid. I’ll me made CEO of Horns.” Tanaka said. “It’s been a long time coming, Oguma.”

“There’s nothing to expose.”

“Nevertheless, you’ll have company when you’re out on your ass. So at least adopting the stray won’t be for naught.” Tanaka got up and head to the door. “You know, everyone always seemed to respect you for being so fierce in the boardroom. Turns out daddy’s money can buy you anything but a set of balls.”

Oguma swallowed harshly. If that greedy son of a bitch brought evidence to the board conflicting his statements about Louis’s paternity, he would be ruined.

He opened his desk drawer to get his phone, and there was the card with the phone number scrawled behind it in pencil.

He picked it up slowly, at war with himself in his head but before he knew it he was dialing the number.

“Hello?” Said the rough voice on the other end of the line.

“Did you mean that?” Oguma said, his voice wavering. ‘Am I shaking?’ He thought.

“It’s you…” Ibuki’s voice brightened up in recognition.

“Did you mean it when you said that you owed me a favor?”

“…Yes.”

“I need someone gone. He’s trying to take everything from me, everything I worked for, everything I am, everything that I’m trying to give my son. Please…I need your help.” Oguma almost sounded panicky, though he tried to stay calm.

“When do you want me?” Asked the lion.

-

A week later, Tanaka exited the elevator to the underground parking garage of the seedy apartment building where his mistress lived. Greedy. In every sense of the word. When he got to the car and opened the door, he was grabbed, he dropped his briefcase, its contents spilling out all over the pavement and panicked as he felt clawed hands try to grip his muzzle.

He reached under the seat to grab his gun, twisting and pulling the trigger. The carnivore grunted in pain and surprise as he tried to grab the gun from the moose. He pulled trigger again, hitting them again but this time claws tore at Tanaka’s chest tearing at his shirt, red streaks of blood flooding the open tears.

Tanaka aimed again, but this time a bullet caught him instead. Right in the head. His body was tossed in the passenger seat. His attacker getting into the driver’s seat and driving away from the scene.

It was messy.

Oguma was in the living room watching television with Louis when the phone rang.

“Hello?”

“Nngh…It’s done.” Ibuki grunted on the other end of the line.

“What happened? You sound like you’re in pain.” Oguma asked, worried.

“He had a gun…hit me a few times.”

“A few?!” Oguma exclaimed, he quickly calmed down as Louis’s eyes snapped to him. “Where are you?”

"Nnnngh...I'm at..." The lion tried to say where he was but was cut off as he let out a groan of pain.

“Little park near Pheasant Bank.”

It’s been a while since Oguma drove, he’s a terrible driver and had no license. It started drizzling a bit, the swipe of the windshield wipers snapped him out of his racing thoughts. He got to where Ibuki said he’d wait for him, it was dark except for a streetlight about a block away.

He got out, it was quiet save for the wind and some cars turning on to the street. His body jolted when he felt a hand on his back, spinning around, the tall figure stood there breathing heavily.

“Come on.” Oguma said.

-

Ibuki sat in the bed sewing himself up. Oguma sat there in front of him, towel in his hand, first aid kit on his lap. “I’m sorry…this was a mistake.” Oguma said. Ibuki looked up at him. “For what? Looking after your kid?” Ibuki looked around the huge guest room. “I knew you came from money but this…is a lot.”

“You must have been…with the shishigumi for a while now. This sort of thing doesn’t seem to phase you at all.” Oguma said lowly. “Few years.” Ibuki said, unwrapping the gauze.

“How old are you?” Oguma asked.

“You first.” Ibuki replied with a smirk.

“Uh…33.”

“I’m 22 now. I joined at 18.”

Oguma’s eyes widened. “Wow, you’re young still. What do your tattoos mean?”

“Ma and pa weren’t fond of me, I guess. Sold me as fodder for hyper drugs when I was 12.”

“I’m…sorry to hear th-“ “Don’t worry about it.”

“What did you do with the body?” Oguma asked.

“They’ll never find him, don’t worry.”

Oguma watched as Ibuki tested his injured arm, his large bicep heavily wrapped with gauze.

“Why are you staring so hard?” Ibuki chuckled. “I’ve never, I mean…I’d better go. You could stay here, I’ll come get you in the morning.” Oguma gave him the kit.

“Why are you running?” Ibuki asked, brow raised. “I’m not running.” Ibuki grabbed Oguma’s hand. “Then come here.” He said. Oguma’s breath caught in his throat. “What for?”

Ibuki pulled Oguma into his lap, he took the stag’s glasses off and rest them on the bedside table. “Where’s your baby? In bed?” Ibuki whispered. Oguma slowly nodded.

“I can’t see without them.”

“You’re always squinting with them on. What good are they?” Ibuki laughed.

“I’m not squinting! Those are my eyes.” Oguma argued.

Ibuki lay beside him on the bed.

“I never forgot how those eyes looked when I first found you. You were shaking…” He spoke softly.

“I was afraid of you.” Oguma whispered, Ibuki wrapped his arm around him and leaned in close.

“How about now? Are you afraid of me?” His breath felt hot against Oguma’s fur, their chests pressed against each other, Ibuki could feel Oguma’s racing heart. “I…a little bit, honestly.”

Ibuki gently pressed his lips to his.

Ibuki's tongue was larger and more broad and had a firm grip on Oguma's tongue, which was smaller and more nimble and was sliding around Ibuki's tongue, probing and teasing, the taste of their saliva fanned the flames of their passion.

Ibuki tore open Oguma’s shirt, buttons flying everywhere. The lion kissed and nipped at his neck making the stag keen and sigh, his hips unconsciously bucking into Ibuki’s big leg at lay in between his. Ibuki could feel Oguma’s hardness rubbing against his meaty thigh.

“What do you want, Oguma?” Ibuki moaned into his ear.

Oguma groaned, his body growing hotter from the heated moment with the lion. "You…please could we…I don’t know what to ask for." The stag begged, his voice trembling as he spoke.

Ibuki was enraptured with the stag. Kissing down his chest to his sternum as he unbuckled his belt.

Ibuki stroked himself as he took in the delicious scent of Oguma’s arousal. He took the stag’s pants off the rest of the way and tossed them, leaving Oguma in only his socks. The lion held Oguma’s legs wide open as he lapped at his tight hole. Oguma gasped and shuddered, his grip tight on the sheets. His toes curled as he grinded into Ibuki’s face.

“Gotta get me wet now, come here.” Ibuki helped Oguma sit up as he straddled him, big pink cock hung right in front of him. “How do I…” Oguma gently took it into his hand. “Open up.” Oguma obeyed. It was almost too much to fit into his mouth. A long thread of saliva dripped from his lips to his chest. “Easy…hollow your cheeks and suck…mmm…yesss much better.” The wet sounds of sucking filled the room, ibuki didn’t push him but Oguma slowly got the hang of it himself.

Ibuki turned Oguma’s chin up and kissed him. “Very nice. Lie down for me.” As soon as the stag’s back hit the mattress, Ibuki pulled him down to the middle of the bed, his ass lining up perfectly with the lion’s crotch. “I’ll be gentle with you.” Ibuki whispered as he teased Oguma’s hole with the head of his cock. “You don’t have to be.” Oguma said, gripping the sheets once more, Ibuki smiled and nodded. “I like that confidence…” he reached the base of his cock inside Oguma starting with slow gentle grind. “Oh! Oh shit…” “Yeah? It’s a lot right? Let’s keep going.” He let Oguma’s body adjust. “Ready for more?” Ibuki asked. Oguma nodded, eyes screwed shut.

Ibuki watched Oguma’s face as he thrust slow and shallow, his lips parting slightly for breathy moans. The occasional deep thrust made the stag’s breath hitch. For a little while Ibuki just enjoyed Oguma’s different facial expressions. He started moving his hips faster and Oguma’s eyes shot open as Ibuki’s thrusts rocked him, the wet smacking sounds made Oguma’s ear flick and he hoped they weren’t being too loud. He wrapped his legs tighter around Ibuki drawing him closer and deeper. Oguma scratched at Ibuki’s chest with his blunt nails sending a shiver down the lion’s spine.

“You’re a quick study, Oguma.” Ibuki teased, he held the stag’s hands to his chest as he bent him even further slamming into him, Oguma cried out , shaking his head trying to remind himself to be quiet but it was so hard. Sweat matted his fur as he huffed and panted recklessly loud. He pulled Ibuki into his chest, wrapping his arms around him as he came. Ibuki came as well, collapsing tiredly onto the deer, still inside him.

“Oh my Rex…” Oguma panted.

“Like that, huh?” Ibuki sat up to kiss him.

“Mr. Oguma? Are you in here? I heard something.” The door opened. Yuta looked in from where he stood at the door and saw a lion looming over a naked Oguma.

“Yuta…wait. It’s not…this is not..” Oguma attempted.

“AHH! HELP!” The sheep turned and ran, Oguma fell off the bed, use of his legs temporarily difficult, but he scambled up and chased Yuta into the hallway. He tackled the screaming sheep, hand clasped over his mouth.

“I can explain, I swear!”

Chapter Text

“I think I need some time to…process all of this, Mr. Oguma.” Yuta sat in the chair with a cold compress to his head. The shock of walking in on Oguma and Ibuki having sex was starting to wear off though he was still in pain from being tackled.

“I know…and Yuta, I don’t think I need to explain to you why this needs to be kept quiet.” Oguma said as he sat on the corner of the bed in a robe. Ibuki sat propped up on the pillows, watching Oguma as the stag blushed, trying somewhat to hide himself. “What time is it, Yuta?” Oguma asked, the sheep looked at his watch, “About 4:30 sir…Louis will be up soon since you’re not there.” The sheep got up. “I’ll be there soon, I…need to shower and…” Oguma trailed off. “Alright sir.” Yuta kept an eye on Ibuki as he made his way out of the room.

They were alone once again. Oguma could feel Ibuki’s eyes on him, the unique relationship between predator and prey made those eyes feel dangerous. He stole a glance at Ibuki. “Why are you smiling like that?” “You made such cute faces…during.” Ibuki said, voice a drawl. Oguma shivered. “I don’t understand how this could happen…” “You needed it. I could tell.” Ibuki said. Oguma glared at him. “So you’re a therapist in addition to a gangster?” He said. Ibuki laughed. “No, I just…know what loneliness looks like.” He said, his expression soft. Oguma scoffed subtly.

“There’s no way you could tell what I’m thinking just by looking at me.” He gruffed. “True…do you want to know what I’m thinking?” Ibuki grinned. Oguma sighed. “What?” “I’m thinking I want another round.” He reached for Oguma, the stag put a hand to his chest. “No, please…my kid will be up soon. You’d better rest a bit, you’ll need to go before he sees you.” Oguma stood up, bending down to pick up his clothes. Ibuki appreciated the sight. When Oguma went for the door, Ibuki stopped him. “Wait…” He took the glasses off the beside table and got up to gently slide them onto Oguma. “Almost forgot.” He said. “Thank you…” Oguma nodded and Ibuki watched him leave.

Oguma walked out of the room, feeling slightly embarrassed by the way Ibuki had seen him so vulnerable. He had enjoyed the sex, but it felt scandalous, and the fact it was with a lion… It wasn't anything personal towards Ibuki, but he'd always been a private person and he felt uncomfortable now that he'd given Ibuki so much access into his mind and body.

Showered, dressed and pristine. He returned to Louis who was sat in the bed waiting. His little distressed face and curled ears tugged at Oguma’s heart. “Where’d you go?” Louis asked, rubbing his eyes. “I’m sorry. I was…helping a friend. He got hurt.” Oguma hugged Louis to his chest. “S’ok, daddy. Just missed you.” He was trying to be brave. Oguma felt an ache in his chest. ‘When was the last time I cried? That night…’ He hugged Louis closer. ‘I calculated every risk, the advantages of having an heir exceeded the risks of the black market. I thought, I’d rather die than lose my legacy. But in all my calculations I didn’t account for how much you’d mean to me.’ He thought in silence as Louis snuggled up to him. ‘You’re going to change the world.’ Was Oguma’s last thought as he drifted off to sleep.

Oguma held Louis tightly against his body as he finally let himself relax. He was filled with pride at the thought of the person Louis would grow up to be, the little boy had his heart wrapped around his tiny little finger. He had calculated every risk but, deep down, he knew that losing his son would be the greatest risk of all that he couldn't afford to take.

When Yuta came and got them for breakfast, Oguma went back to guest room to sneak Ibuki out of the mansion while Louis was in the dining room. When he opened the door, there was no sign of Ibuki.

“Yuta!” He called to the sheep. “Yes?” “Where is he?” Oguma asked. “He left a little while ago, he asked me to show him out.” Yuta explained. “Did he…say anything?” Oguma asked, his ears drooping slightly. “He said, ‘Hold on to that number.’” Yuta said. Oguma blushed.

-

Later that day Oguma got a phone call to his personal cellphone, he hesitated to answer. “Hello?”

“Where is he?” Said a female voice.

“Who? Who is this?” He rubbed at his forehead. “Tanaka, and this is Suki. We’re close friends. Where is he?”

Oguma put back on his mask. His voice level. “I don’t know his whereabouts. We haven’t spoken since yesterday and I’ve been home all day.” He said.

“Oh please, Oguma. He told me that if anything happened to him, it would be by your hand. Sure you’ve been home, but that doesn’t mean you couldn’t just pay someone to do the dirty work for you and I have not heard from him so I’ll ask you again. Where is he?” “I don’t know. And do not call this number again.” He said bluntly. “You may think you’ve gotten away with something here but I assure you, I’ll get to the bottom of this.” She warned, and then hung up.

He knew he needed to be careful with how he handled the situation. As soon as his family became involved, there was a good chance that all pretense that he had left would go out the window.

-

A week went by without incident.

Today was a special day for Louis, dressed in his little suit, they were chauffeured to the mansion of Oguma’s long time business partner, Yoshida the red deer. Where Louis would meet his future fiancé. It’s a red deer’s responsibility to produce descendants to carry on the family name. Oguma and Yoshida agreed years ago that their children would become betrothed and go on to merge both companies.

-

Louis avoided looking at her but the female fawn watched him inquisitively. It was just a little awkward as Louis tried to hide in Oguma’s chest.

“He’s a handsome boy, Oguma.” Yoshida.

“Thank you, although he’s a little shy.”

"Hmm, I believe he will grow into his confidence in time." Yoshida said to Oguma and gave him a reassuring nod.

“I have to admit…I was surprised when I heard about Louis. Though, him being the product of an affair, I couldn’t fault you for keeping it need-to-know.” Yoshida sipped some coffee as Oguma shifted. “Well, it was a fortunate turn of events and we’re both better off for it.” Oguma said as he gently urged the two children to speak.

“What about his mother?” Yoshida asks. Oguma shook his head. “She moved on with her life, but I don’t hold any ill will towards her. Besides…my time with Louis has been quite rewarding in its own ways.” “I see.”

“What’s your name?” She asked.

“Louis…” He looked up at Oguma who nodded in assurance.

“I’m Azuki. How old are you?”

Louis held up six fingers. Azuki laughed. “Me too!”

“It’s going well.” Yoshida chuckled.

“Yeah.” Oguma smiled.

-

As they made their way to the limousine, Oguma had that sickening feeling that someone was watching them. He looked around seeing nothing but instincts screamed at him to run.

He quickly helped Louis inside and climbed in, himself.
-

After Louis fell asleep, Oguma locked himself in the bathroom. He sat on the toilet seat with the phone in his hand contemplating whether or not to make the call. He took a deep breath and pressed the green button. It rang a few times, he was about to give up when the line picked up.

“Hello?”

“Ibuki…is this a bad time?” Oguma has no idea why he’s nervous.

“Hold on.” He hears some footsteps and then a door closing. “What’s wrong?” Ibuki asked.

“Nothing…I mean. I was threatened again today, and I’m pretty sure I’m being followed.” Oguma said.

“How can I help?” Ibuki asked, he heard the lion yawn and almost laughed.

“I think I need to find a way to deal with this myself. For good. Before it gets out of hand.” Oguma deflated. “I don’t know why I called, I guess I just needed to talk about it.”

“Sounds to me like you have a target on your back.” Ibuki said.

“That’s business…actually, it makes me realize that we’re not so different.” Oguma sat back, hand bunching his pant leg idly. “Where are you now?” Ibuki asked. “Locked in a bathroom.” Oguma replied flatly.

“I’ve been thinking about you.” Said the lion, softly.

“Really?”

“Yeah, just this afternoon I was thinking about the way your nose did the cutest little wiggle when I was cumming inside you.” Ibuki’s rough voice went breathy as he mentioned it, Oguma’s face felt hot.

“I, uh…don’t recall.” The stag swallowed dryly.

“Yeah, and you were so tight and hot too. I could cum from just being inside you, I swear.” The slow sensual growl in Ibuki’s voice went straight to the stag’s cock.

“Oh! Um… I’m glad you enjoyed yourself, I’ve never been with a man before.” Oguma was unlike himself, blushing and sheepish. “Does that mean you’re…”

“I don’t like putting a label on myself. To me, ass is ass. Even when I’m with a woman I prefer her ass to her pussy.” Ibuki said a little too casually making the stag cough awkwardly. “You’ve got a fine ass, Oguma.”

Oguma jolted, knocking over a shampoo bottle. He quickly picked it up. “Th-Thank you.” He missed the sink, dropping the bottle again and had to pick it up a second time.

“I’ve got my dick in my hand right now. Thinking about you sucking it…it’s hard as a rock. Next time I’ll teach you how to get it all the way down your throat. Fuck…that’d be a pretty sight…would feel good too.” Ibuki moaned into the moan. Oguma’s eyes widened ‘Next time?! There’s gonna be a next time?’ He panicked internally.

“Ibuki…”

“Touch yourself for me, sweetheart.” Oguma could hear the smirk in his voice.

With a shudder, he slowly unbuttoned his pants, hand sliding beneath the elastic of his boxers. His semi-hard cock throbbed gently in his hand, Oguma’s attention teasing it to full mast, he let out a little whimper.

“There we go…just imagine, I have you bent over. Your ass in the air, hole nice and slick and I’m fucking you hard.” Oguma stroked himself to Ibuki’s voice. “And you’re backing it up onto me ‘cause you’re desperate for it.” “Mmm…” Oguma whined, his hand speeding up. “I’d let you suck on my fingers as I slam my cock all the way in, making your knees shake under you.”

“Oh shit, Ibuki…” Oguma hissed, moaning. His body seizing as he came into to his hand. “There you go, you’re so good, cumming for me. I should reward you soon.” Ibuki praised. Oguma hummed in response. “Feel better?” Ibuki asked after a moment. Oguma inhaled sharply, “Yes…Thank you.”

“I got to go. Call me, if anything changes.” Ibuki said.

“Alright…”

Oguma sat after the call, still shaking a little from his release the lion had given him. It was such a peculiar feeling, that combination of pleasure and humiliation both filling his body as a lion had just talked him to an orgasm.

-

The next morning was Louis’s first day of school. After the meeting with Yoshida, Oguma decided that homeschooling wasn’t enough to help Louis socialize. He went back and forth on this decision and ultimately decided it would be best.

It was early morning, they had just left the estate and were heading to the expressway when all of a sudden they were hit in the front passenger side. Oguma held onto Louis, “Yuta are you okay?” The sheep didn’t respond. “Yuta!” The door flew open. Large animals dressed all in black pulled Oguma and Louis from the car. Yuta was knocked out and lay on the ground just outside the driver’s door. “What the hell is this?!” Oguma protested, he was silenced with a hit to the side of the head with the butt of a gun.

Louis started crying as Oguma fell to the ground. “Dad!” “Carnivores…” Oguma watched helplessly as he bled from his head, they took Louis into a black car and sped away.

Oguma was stunned, his body unable to move or speak while he saw his son being torn from his arms. Louis crying in fear as the carnivores ripped him away from the only person he'd grown to rely on, his ears going flat on his head in a fearful expression that shattered Oguma.

He struggled to his feet, pulling his phone out, he swayed dizzily as he tried to dial.

“Ibuki!”

“Oguma? Now is not a good time.” The lion spoke hushed.

“They took him!” Oguma sobbed. “You got to help me, I’ll do anything.” He cried.

“Shh…What are you talking about?”

“They took Louis…”

Chapter Text

As Ibuki hung up the phone, he arrived at the boss’s office. He knocked.

“You wanted to see me, boss?”

The chief of the Shishigumi was an intimidating lion in his own right. Ibuki tried his best to limit their interactions to only when necessary. Their boss had…certain proclivities that made Ibuki’s gut twist. He didn’t like being included in them.

“We have a job to do. The boys are out grabbing a guest. Once they get back, we will be negotiating a ransom. Once we got the money, we’re killing the hostage and the father too. Got it?”

“Why go after them boss?” Ibuki asked hesitantly. “It’s a prominent herbivore family with a lot of enemies. Someone paid a lot of money to see them gone. Can I count on you for this or not?” The chief narrowed his eyes. The chief lion of the Shishigumi had this inane ability to read body language that Ibuki was acutely aware of. “Of course, boss.”

“You’ve been distracted the past few days, but whatever it is, don’t let it get in the way of business.” The chief warned. Ibuki nodded. “Yes boss.”

His boss had been aware enough to notice that Ibuki had been a bit distracted as of late and he could feel the unease in his mind growing with every second he was standing here.

When the others arrived, a screeching cry tore throughout the base. “Can it, kid. Otherwise I’m taping your mouth shut!” A corn-rowed lion growled in frustration. “What’s the matter, Miguel? Not good with kids?” A pompadour sporting lion mocked with a laugh. “Can’t stand them. They’re fuckin’ loud and they piss and shit all over the place.” Miguel grunted. “Free…” Ibuki said from the stairs. “What’s that?” “Oh hey, ‘Buki! Just our temporary house guest.” Miguel held the fawn upside down by his leg as he cried. Ibuki bit his tongue. “Stop that. Give him here.” Ibuki took the child from him. “Hey Louis…” whispered, as he turned away from the others. Louis seemed to calm. He lay his little head on the lion’s shoulder, ears curled.

“I’ll hold on to him until it’s time to negotiate. I’m sure the father will want to hear his voice for confirmation.” Ibuki said. “Fine by me…as long as he’s quiet.” Free said. Sympathy burned at the lion’s throat as angry tears stung his eyes.

In Ibuki’s room, he gently set the child on his bed taking his little shoes off. “Just sit tight, as long as you’re with me, no one’s gonna mess with you.” He offered Louis a gentle smile. “Are you gonna eat me?” Louis’s little voice mumbled.

“No…I’m not gonna eat you.” Ibuki sat on the floor in front of him. “‘Cause I don’t want my daddy to be sad.” Louis pulled his knees to his chest, wiping the tears from his face. Ibuki’s lip quivered. “Shit…” he cursed under his breath. “Don’t worry, you’ll be back with daddy soon.”

The way the child cared for his father more than himself touched Ibuki more than anything else in the world at this moment. He felt a tear roll down his cheek. "I promise I'll get you back to him" he spoke softly, as he rubbed the child's back lightly.

There was only one problem.

How was Ibuki going to get Louis out of here and back to Oguma? He had to act fast because they did not have a lot of time. He got on the phone, calling Oguma. “Hello?!” The stag sounded exhausted and scared. “Shh…it’s me. Oguma, I need you to listen carefully. Get everything you need and get out of that mansion. The Shishigumi has Louis. And no, I didn’t know about it cause I was running other jobs, but they plan to ask for a ransom and as soon as they get it they’ll kill him and come after you too.” Ibuki whispered into the phone, listening at the door to make sure none of the others were near.

“Wha-I…where am I supposed to go? If I go to a hotel and use my name, they’d find me. How am I supposed to get Louis back?” Oguma’s voice cracked. Ibuki hated imagining tears in his eyes. “There’s this place where animals go to disappear called the hidden condo. I’ll send you the address. Go there and ask the lady at the security desk to give you the spare key to room 311. She knows me. Stay there until I could bring him to you.” Ibuki instructed as Louis looked up at him.

“These are your people…how do I know I could trust you?” Oguma sobbed in frustration. “I’d rather die than have you look at me like I was a monster again. I promise, Oguma. Go. Now.” Ibuki hung up, quickly texting him the address.

-

He couldn't begin to imagine how he could trust the lion, but for now, he had no choice, the safety of his son now dependent on him and how far he was willing to go to help them. The fear of being betrayed again clouded his mind, but he tried to clear them away as he rushed to gather his things.

“Sir? Sir!” Yuta cried. Oguma didn’t answer as he stuffed a duffle bag with clothes for him and Louis, his phone and charger, wallet, keys, towels and a blanket. He had no idea where he was going or for how long. “Oguma!” Yuta shrilled, snapping the stag out of his trance. “Where are you going?” Asked the sheep. “I have to get him back. Nothing will ever be right again unless he’s safe with me.” Oguma said as he swung the bag over his shoulder. “Yes, but…where are you going?” Yuta reiterated.

“Keep your phone close, Yuta. I’ll call you when I can.” Oguma rushed down the stairs and out the door as fast as he could. He took a cab up to a block away from the address and had to walk the rest of the way. Grungy was putting it mildly, but he could understand why no one would come snooping around here.

When he got to the so-called “hidden condo” he cringed has he walked into the dilapidated building. He walked up to the desk as instructed and asked for the key to 311. The lady turned out to be a crane, she leaned in and spoke quietly. “Third floor. He asked me to stock up food in the mini fridge for you and told me to tell you not to make any calls to him until he gets here.” She handed him the keys. Oguma nodded.

Oguma closed the door. It was dark, the blinds closed with very minimal furniture. An armchair, futon, a fridge, a tv, stove, and a small table. The stag had to wonder if this was Ibuki’s hideaway when he was on the run from police or if he ever decided to jump ship from the Shishigumi. Oguma sat in the chair and took a deep breath. He held on to his phone and waited.

-

“I’m hungry.” Louis said, pouting. Ibuki almost missed it. “Alright. I’ll go get you something.” He said. “Don’t leave me!” Louis cried. “Shh ok ok, come on. We have to be quick, now.” He picked Louis up and they went down to the kitchen. Shishigumi had little in way of herbivore food, but they had some apples. He picked up a couple and turned to leave the kitchen. Louis gasped as he saw the chief. He buried his face in Ibuki’s chest.

“What are you doing, Ibuki?” The lion sounded almost amused, but Ibuki knew better. “Kid’s hungry.” He said, simply. “Strange how you’ve taken it upon yourself to take care of him.” Chief said. “I didn’t like how the others handled him, boss.” “What’s this?” Chief saw the ‘4’ on the bottom of Louis foot. “Would you look at that what a sad life you’ve live already…your old man must’ve grabbed you from somewhere to pass you off as his own.” Chief turned his little foot and tutted. Louis was stock-still as though playing dead. “You understand what’s going to happen to him don’t you? When all is said and done?” Chief moved past Ibuki to the fridge getting himself a beer. “I do, boss.” Ibuki said. “Good.” Chief left the kitchen and Ibuki took Louis back to his room.

Ibuki cut up the apple with the knife in his pocket, feeding Louis. The fawn was hungry enough to eat both. “He wants eat me, I can tell.” Louis said, sadly.

“Yes. But I won’t let him.” Ibuki replied truthfully. They were kindred spirits, the two of them. Ibuki thought it better not to insult his intelligence. “How did you get those cuts on your hands?” Louis asked. “I get into fights sometimes.” Ibuki said, wiping bits of apple away from Louis’s face. Louis huffed. “I wish somebody came and fight that guy so maybe he’d forget he was hungry.” Louis made a little angry face. Ibuki’s eyes widened, he couldn’t believe it.

He felt something deep inside him stirring as he thought about how Louis had just come up with a plan that could potentially save himself. Louis's innocent mind was such a wonderful gift and the lion was beginning to think he wouldn't be able to deny the kid anything after this.

-

The chief was about to call Ibuki to the office to start the negotiation with Oguma for his son’s ransom. “Boss!” Free barreled into the office, “Madaragumi. Think they’re looking for a fight.” “Again? We just dealt with these fuckers!” Chief stood up. “They beat up one of our guys and poisoned another. What do you want us to do?” Free asked. Chief sighed, grabbing his gun from the desk drawer. “All of you, with me. Let’s deal with this, quickly.” He grunted. “Yes boss!”

They left the base, chief assuming Ibuki was in the second car following along with them. However, the lion had Louis and was running on adrenaline trying to get him to the hidden condo before chief noticed the story was a ruse. He zipped Louis up in his jacket telling him to hold on tight as they got on the motorcycle. Ibuki put his helmet on and they were off.

Oguma lay on the futon, his head throbbing. He had no idea what was going on or if Louis was hurt. ‘I thought I saved him, but all I did was toss him into even more danger.’ He thought, his heart heavy with fear. Oguma jolted up as the door knob began to jiggle, a key turning the lock.

When the door opened a large figure dressed in black with a motorcycle helmet on came in and closed the door behind him. Oguma crawled backwards away from them. “Who…who are you?” He whimpered. The person opened their jacket to reveal a scared Louis hanging on for dear life. Oguma gasped. He scrambled to his feet and ran to them. Louis held him tightly as Oguma hugged him. Ibuki took off the helmet. “I can’t stay long, listen, you need to stay here until I figure out what to do. The showers are communal, they’re downstairs.” Ibuki told him. Oguma looked at him, worriedly. “What will they do to you if they find him gone?” He asked. Ibuki sighed, “I don’t know, but you let me worry about that.” Ibuki turned to leave, Oguma grabbed him and kissed him. “Thank you…for everything.” His eyes were filled with gratitude as he looked at Ibuki. “ The lion kissed him once more, “I’ll see you soon. Keep the door locked.” He said. Oguma nodded. Then he left.

-

The Shishigumi returned, their chief infuriated as they had just wasted the afternoon chasing a threat that wasn’t there. “Free…who told you about the madaragumi?” He asked. Free hesitated. “Answer me!” The chief growled. “Ibuki, sir.” Free said, his voice sheepish. Chief looked around. He counted seven lions standing in the foyer. ”Where is Ibuki?”

Chapter Text

Ibuki felt the tension in the air grow thicker as fellow lions shuffled about nervously and then grow silent, fearing the wrath of the enraged lion in front of them.

Ibuki sat on his knees in front of the chief. The other lions stood behind him, looking on. “Ibuki…I have been good to you. Firm when I needed to be and patient when you screwed up. But now…what you’ve done is unforgivable. And what I don’t understand is why? Why would you betray the Shishigumi, your family…your ONLY family, for some deer you don’t even know.” The Chief asked. Ibuki said nothing. The Chief backhanded him hard across the head with his cane.

His bloody glasses slid across the floor as the ion heaved in pain. He took a breath to compose himself and sat straight again. “I will not ask you a second time, Ibuki.” The Chief warned. “I don’t know why. Kid was so small, I didn’t want him to suffer.” Ibuki said. His voice trembling. Chief lion chuckled.

“Ibuki, don’t lie to me. The disrespect will only anger me further. We both know that there’s more to it than that.” The chief sat back in his chair, smoothing his mane back into place. “The kid is not here in the base with us anymore. So I assume that he’s back with his father. But I never told you who his father was and I doubt the kid could tell you where to find him. Which tells me that you already knew.” The chief leaned in. “Past week or so you’ve been strutting around here like a peacock, and I thought…he must’ve had himself a good lay. It’s ironic, you think I don’t see the contempt in your face when I’m enjoying myself with my prey, and then you turn around and do the same damn thing. Hypocrite.” The chief spit on Ibuki’s face.

“Take him…we’re headed to the docks.” The chief ordered. The other lions hesitated. “Now.” He demanded. Ibuki turned to his brothers and nodded subtly. Dolph and Free lifted him to his feet and dragged him to follow along behind their boss. Ibuki clenched his jaw tightly and refused to utter a word to the chief, refusing to give him this satisfaction of hearing him beg for his life.

They all stood just outside an empty warehouse. The sound of the waves and distant sirens broke the silence that gripped the pride of lions as the two lions stepped away from Ibuki, the chief turning to face him. “We’re finding that deer, Ibuki. We’ll find him and kill him. The kid too. He can’t have gotten far and I’m sure you told him to leave his mansion. It’s a shame that it’s come to this…that I have to kill one of my best men because he chose an herbivore over his boss.” The chief pulled out his gun, raising it to Ibuki.

“Then just fucking get it over with. I don’t regret it and I’ll go to my grave with my conscience clear.” Ibuki growled. The Chief snarled, he pulled the safety back. Then a shot rang out, hitting Ibuki in the chest, he fell over the edge of the dock and into the water. The chief turned to see it was Free who had his gun drawn. “What you do that for?” He asked. “I couldn’t take it anymore boss, his blatant disrespect for the Shishigumi was more than I could bear.” The chief turned to the water to see that it was still and sighed. “Let’s go. There’s work to be done.” He said. “Yes boss.” They answered in unison.

Ibuki surfaced on the other end of the dock and watched as they got into the car. Every breath was agonizing. He had to get help and fast, but for a moment he left himself bask in the fact that Free spared him a point blank shot to the head. He waited until they were far enough away to climb out of the water. He couldn't believe he was still alive. The lion tried to stay calm as he thought of his next move. He needed to find somewhere to lay low and recover from his injury.

A young okapi finishes her shift at the strip club. She walks quickly to her building, keys in her hand, her brass knuckles grasped tightly. When she gets to her door she paused. “Hello?” She called out into the darkness. A wounded young lion limps from behind a dumpster into the light. “Ibuki…” her eyes widen in shock. “Hey Cosmo.” He nods up in greeting.

In the apartment, Ibuki sits shirtless as Cosmo gets to work on him. “How’d this happen?” She asked as she uses a blunt butter knife to dig out the bullet. “You’re lucky this didn’t make it far.” She quipped as she plucked the bullet out.

“It’s a long story.” He groaned.

“You owe me. She replied.

He took a deep breath. “I fell in love.” Ibuki said. Cosmo snorted. “So she shot you?”

“I betrayed the Shishigumi for him.” He said somberly. “Him, huh? Another lion?” She asked. He took a sharp breath as she began to stitch the wound. “A stag.” He mumbled. Cosmo gasped. “You don’t do things halfway, do you Ibuki?” She grinned. “Tell me about him.” She said. “Tall, good looking, unique set of antlers. He plays confident, but he’s actually really shy.” He said. She watched him with wide eyes and a cheeky smile. “Did you fuck him?”

Ibuki chuckled. “He put it down so good for me, I wake thinking about it.” She laughed. “Damn. So what are you gonna do?” She asked, taping gauze to his chest. “I need to protect him. I’m gonna go to him and then I don’t know from there.” He said, he took a swig from the bottle of Joey Walker Blue she had on her nightstand.

“Thank you for this. I owe you.” Looked at Cosmo, his disheveled mane falling in his face. “Don’t worry about it.” She gently kissed his forehead. “Go get your man.”

-

Back at the condo, Oguma was in the shower trying to bathe a fussy Louis. The fawn cried, saying he wanted to go home. Oguma did his best to try to comfort him and assure him they would do so once it was safe. He quickly dried them off and rushed back to the room.

The mini fridge had enough food for a few days but if they ran out before they were able to go home, he was afraid of leaving the building to get anything else. He grabbed small package of celery and carrots and shared it with Louis. It wasn’t nearly as extravagant as the food they had at home but he wasn’t about to be picky.

Louis was starting to get a bit fussy from the lack of his favorite comfort foods and toys. However, he tried to eat the carrots and celery that Oguma had for him and the little fawn was enjoying the simple but healthy snacks. Oguma promised Louis that they would be home soon though he himself had no idea when.

As they finished up a knock at the door startled them. Oguma pulled Louis into his arms, hushing him. He was sure that if it were Ibuki he’d just use his key so he was still and quiet as he clutched Louis to his chest. The person knocked again. Oguma closed his eyes and for the first time in his life he prayed. Prayed that whoever it was would just go away.

“It’s me. Open up, I don’t have my key.” The familiar voice said through the door. Oguma got to his feet with Louis in his arms, made his way to the door and opened it. Ibuki came in, quickly shutting the door behind him. “What happened to you? You look like hell.” Oguma said.

The lion did in fact look like hell as he leaned back against the door and let out a deep sigh, he was still in a lot of pain from the gunshot wound and the lack of food and sleep in the last day and a half was taking it's toll on him. Oguma was shocked to see the lion in such a terrible state.

-

They lay on the futon together on the futon. Oguma and Ibuki face to face with Louis in between them falling in and out of sleep as Oguma rubbed his belly.

“So they think you’re dead?” Oguma whispered. “Yeah, but they’re still looking and the person who paid them is waiting to hear news of your demise in the papers.” Ibuki said softly, the walls were thin in this place and it never hurt to be extra careful.

“If I don’t go back, everyone will think I disappeared. But if I do…I’ll be killed.” Oguma shook his head. “Either way that bitch gets what she wants.”

“I won’t let that happen, Oguma.” Ibuki assured. “Why did you do all this? Because of that night? We barely know each other and yet you seem to have given up everything to help me and Louis.” Oguma looked into the lion’s eyes, he looked so different without his glasses. Younger. “I love you, Oguma. I know it’s sudden, but I almost died today without getting a chance to tell you so I’m not making that mistake again.” Ibuki said, he leaned in and gently kissed the stag.

Oguma was taken aback by the Ibuki’s sudden confession of love and he sat stunned in silence for a few moments as he took in the meaning of the lion's words.

"I love you too, Ibuki." Oguma eventually replied.

Oguma woke up to the sound of laughter. He quickly sat up when he realized that Louis wasn’t beside him. When he looked over to the kitchen he saw Louis sitting on the counter as Ibuki fed him cereal. He rubbed the sleep from his eyes and got up. “Morning.”Ibuki greeted. “Good morning.”Oguma yawned. “I’ll have to get more food soon.” Ibuki said.

“I’ll figure out how to get it, Ibuki. I don’t want to risk you being seen…Ibuki…what would happen if you killed the boss of the Shishigumi?” Oguma asked. Ibuki thought for a moment. “If someone were able to get close enough to the boss to kill him in our presence. That person could choose to become our boss or be killed.” He said. “Is that something you would want? To be boss?” Oguma asked. “Definitely not, but…” Ibuki looked at Louis and then to Oguma. “But if that’s the route you think we should take, I’ll do what I have to.” He said.

Oguma nodded. “But first, we need to take care of the bitch that sent you after us. I want to see to it personally that she’s no longer a problem.” He said.

Oguma's words had an air of determination about them with eyes full of hate towards the reason for all this drama and mayhem in their lives. Ibuki didn't dare disagree with the man and he nodded his head in agreement.

Chapter Text

As Louis slept, Ibuki and Oguma sat at the table, planning. “What do we know about this woman?” Ibuki asked as he handed a paper cup with some coffee. “Her name is Suki, she’s a 20 something year old moose. They were having an affair for about 12 years, he used to brag about her at conferences. She has her own herbivore exclusive entertainment company.” Oguma grimaced slightly at the taste of the cheap coffee. “So she’s loaded too.” Ibuki grumbles as he takes an egg sandwich out of the paper bag. “Quite, but as far as I know, after Tanaka’s wife got sick they planned to let nature take its course and get married after she died.” Oguma said. “I guess with him gone now, all the money goes to the wife.” Ibuki said with his mouth full. “Exactly, she must’ve been so pissed to miss out on that payout that she got someone to reach out to the Shishigumi to have me killed.” Oguma took another sip of his coffee, looking over at Louis as he slept peacefully in bed.

“Kidnapping Louis was probably her way of being a little extra cruel.” Ibuki remarked. Oguma grunted. “It was her biggest mistake. She lives in that apartment where you picked up Tanaka but she also has a property in Plainview where the elite go when they could use a little extra privacy. That’s probably where she’s hiding while she’s waiting word that the Shishigumi were successful.” Oguma said. This fiend of a woman was such a minor flaw in his plan that he didn’t even account for her retaliation.

“So what do you want to do? I know you’re itching to see the trigger pulled yourself, and you need me to be your back up. Who will look after Louis?” Ibuki asked, he was beginning to get better at reading the stag’s intentions. “Do you know anyone we could trust who’s good with kids?” Oguma asked.

Ibuki thought for a moment as he considered Oguma's question. He wasn't sure if he knew anyone that was trustworthy and could look after Louis properly if they were out taking care of business. Oguma couldn't just expect to put his child's life in danger, especially after everything they had been through.

“I have someone in mind.” Ibuki said.

-

There was a knock on the door early that morning, Ibuki quickly opened the door. “Oguma…this is Cosmo…Cosmo, this is-“ “The man that stole your heart, wow you weren’t kidding he’s very handsome. And so tall, too. So what do you need?” Cosmo asked as flopped in the big chair. “We need you to look after his son while we pay someone a visit.” Ibuki explained as he gestured to Louis who sat quietly watching tv.

“I don’t know about this, I don’t usually babysit-“ “I’ll pay you 5 million yen.” Oguma interrupted her protest. She thought for a moment. “How long do you think you’ll be gone?” She asked. “A week at most, you took care of your sister for years after your mom passed. I KNOW you could handle this. Please.” Ibuki pleaded. Cosmo took a deep breath. “Alright, I’ll help. But please make sure you guys don’t get yourselves killed out there. I don’t think the little guy could take it.” She said. Ibuki nodded.

Oguma went over to Louis, picking him up. “Louis, daddy has to go with Ibuki for a little while. He’s going to help us get back home.” He said softly. “But…what if you can’t…what if you don’t come pack. “ Louis’s ears curled. “We…could stay here, I promise I won’t cry no more. Don’t go.” His big brown eyes welled with tears. Oguma pressed his forehead to Louis’s. “I’ll be back. You have my word. This lion is our friend, and he won’t let anything happen to me.” Oguma walked over to Cosmo. “This is Cosmo, she’s going to take care of you until we come back.” He said. Louis nodded.

Oguma could feel Louis's grip tighten around him as he held him close one last time. Louis was desperate for his father not to leave him and he couldn't imagine what would happen if Oguma didn't come back to him. He hugged Oguma tightly once more before letting himself be handed to Cosmo.

“Please make sure you bring him back, Ibuki.” She told the lion as she handed him a set of keys. “I will.” He assured.

They got into a car she brought with her, an inconspicuous black suv. Ibuki at the wheel as Oguma buckled himself in he felt the weight of everything bear on him all at once he sobbed.

Never in his life has he ever let his emotions hold him. He hardly even cried as a child. But with everything he’d gone through, he finally just had to let it go. His body shaking as tears fell.

“Shh, it’s okay. We’ll be okay.” Ibuki soothed, his big hand resting on the stag’s knee reassuringly. “It’s so much, Ibuki. I’ve never felt so deeply, it’s like something’s come over me.” Oguma’s lip trembled as he tried to fight back the tears. “It’s love, Oguma. Fighting for a company is not the same as fighting for someone you love. It’s an all consuming feeling that you’re having for the first time.” Ibuki told him.

Oguma continued to sob as he leaned his head into Ibuki's shoulder and let out all of his emotions and feelings that had built up over years of hiding them and ignoring them. He knew that this was all a result of the love he felt for Louis and the feelings that he had tried to bottle up but could not avoid any longer. He was not used to letting a connection consume him like this but it was an experience that he was now starting to cherish.

When Oguma was finally able to compose himself, he turned to Ibuki. “Let’s go. We have long drive ahead of us.” Oguma noticed Ibuki’s lack of glasses. “Will you be able to see without your glasses?” He asked. “Yeah, my eyes haven’t gotten that bad yet. But just in case, hold on tight.” The lion grinned. Oguma laughed subtly but the lion beamed when he realized he caught it.

-

It was a long drive and when night fell and Ibuki quickly realized that driving at night without his glasses was a very bad idea. They stopped at a rest stop. “I told you…” Oguma scolded. “I know! I know…” The lion sighed. “So are we just…” Oguma looked over at Ibuki. “Unless you wanna drive?” Ibuki said. Oguma looked down, embarrassed. “I um…I don’t know how to drive. I could get away with short distances but I’m terrible at it.” He said, looking out the window. “It’s okay. We’ll just rest here and get back on the road in the morning.” Ibuki said, Oguma sighed. “Oguma…” the stag turned to Ibuki who quickly kissed him. “This is the first time we’ve been alone since that night.” Ibuki’s voice was low and sultry. “I know…been busy running from my subordinates and the mob.” Oguma said deadpan.

He unbuckled the seatbelt, slouching in the passenger seat. He felt the car shaking and turned to see Ibuki holding on to the wheel as he laughed at him. “What’s so funny?” He asked. Ibuki shook his head. “You have quite the sense of humor.” The lion said. Oguma quirked a brow. “Hmph. I wasn’t trying to be funny.”

“Sorry… you’re right. I just…you’re witty. I like that.” Ibuki remarked. Oguma blushed, he looked away with an embarrassed smile. “I can’t climb on top of you with my antlers.” He said.

“Get in the back.” Ibuki said. Oguma turned around and climbed to the back seat, Ibuki followed behind him. Oguma was feverish, he pulled his stretchy shirt over his head and pulled down his jeans as he passionately kissed Ibuki. He got to work unbuttoning the lion’s shirt, tongue desperately eager to taste as it teased at the lion’s. “Damn, babe. You’re all worked up.” Ibuki mused, Oguma’s body was practically vibrating with need. “I don’t know…my mind is so heavy…I’m not thinking clearly. I want to stop thinking for a while.” Oguma said. He took his glasses off and gently put them in the cup holder. Laying bare beneath the glow of neon green lights coming in from the sign outside, the stag looked otherworldly.

Ibuki spit on fingers, slicking up his throbbing cock. He held both of Oguma’s long legs over his left shoulder as he pressed into the stags tight hole.

Oguma had no control of himself and was simply driven by pure instinct. The need to be close to someone and filled was all that mattered in this exact moment. The stag's body was shaking with his body's need for heat and stimulation. The stag eagerly allowed himself to be driven by the Ibuki’s intense and overwhelming energy as he felt the urge to release overtake him.

Oguma let Ibuki have his way. He could hardly see without his glasses but the darkness completely obscured the lion. Oguma wanted to watch this time, keeping his eyes wide open as this overbearing shadow took its pleasure from his vulnerable body.

‘If he wanted to… he could tear my throat out with his teeth. Why? Why am I not afraid?’ Oguma wondered. Ibuki’s big hands gripped nearly the entirety of the stag’s torso. Oguma was much more vocal, he scratched at Ibuki’s arms, the pain urging him to bury himself deeper into Oguma making the stag cry out.

Ibuki spread the stag’s leg’s apart, licking and kissing Oguma’s feet as they both moaned in tandem. The sounds of flesh against flesh echoed into the night as Ibuki shook Oguma. Unlike him, the lion could see everything. He relished the stag’s lustful gaze with eyes that shed tears of desperation begging for something to hold on to. He licked his lips as he watched the stag’s sizeable endowment bounce with the friction. He raised Oguma just a bit to see how his hole stretched to accommodate him, it made Ibuki salivate. This. This is what he could do for him. All Ibuki had to offer was himself which he would gladly sacrifice for Oguma if it brought him happiness. “Ah! Please…” The stag begged, face red. His back arched, bearing down on Ibuki as he came. ‘I’ll never get tired of seeing you like this.’ Ibuki thought, as he came as well, stifling a roar into a low growl that made Oguma’s eyes widen in fear but for just a moment. “Look at me…” Ibuki leaned in close, so that they were eye to eye. “I love you.” He said. Oguma pulled him into a passionate kiss.

He had never felt so utterly dominated and it was almost too much for him in a way that was both painful but equally arousing. The lion made him want things that he had never wanted before.

Oguma lay his head in Ibuki’s lap as he rubbed his back. “I’m a different person now than I was before I met you. From the time we’re young…male lions are told that we’re the ‘king of beasts’” Ibuki said. “What does that mean?” Oguma asked. “It means…we’re expected to be ruthless, strong…leaders. My mom and dad never saw me as anything more than another mouth to feed, but even when I managed to escape death, that ideology followed me. And I bought into it…I was ruthless, feared…I commanded respect. But even that was too much, I soon realized that I could never be a leader.” Ibuki turned to Oguma who was looking up at him.

“How did I change your mind?” Oguma asked. “You gave me something more. I don’t just lust for your body…I admire you. I admire how strong you are.” Ibuki said. Oguma reached up to touched Ibuki’s face. “I suppose we both had to learn how to be strong, or else the world was all too ready to devour us.” He said.

“Ever since I adopted Louis, it’s like…I’m seeing for the first time. I was so numb to everything, it was almost as though my analytical mind just wouldn’t let me process my own emotions. Everything that I’ve been feeling, all the tears I’ve cried, hell, smiling is so foreign to me and I’m finding myself feeling these things and becoming more expressive every day. My mind keeps telling me that it’s unreasonable to allow myself to be readable to others. That’s it’s bad for business and makes me vulnerable. Honestly, I still don’t know what to think.” Oguma’s eyes met the lion’s. Ibuki leaned in and kissed him.

The lion leaned in closer as his eyes met the stag's and he wrapped his arm tightly around him. He brought his face closer until their noses were touching and their breaths merged as the two were intimately locked in each other's embrace. Ibuki let his lips linger on the stag's. "I think that it's beautiful. The way that you're evolving and allowing yourself to feel these things that you've been missing out on. It's incredible to witness." The lion grasped Oguma’s smaller hand in his own, and kissed it. “Rest…we have to go soon.” He said. Oguma nodded.

They soon fell asleep together, talking and sharing the warmth of intimate touch with impassioned kisses in between. When Oguma woke, he realized he was alone in the back seat and the car was moving. He slowly sat up. “Good morning.” Ibuki greeted. “Hey, when did you start moving?” Oguma asked. “Two hours ago, I got you something to eat, but…I just wanted you to sleep a little more.” Ibuki said. Oguma yawned. “It’s fine.” Said the stag. Ibuki turned him handing him the salad and juice he bought him. “Need to piss?” He asked. Oguma shook his head, “No. We’re nearly there.” He said.

-

“You have a 1:00 with one of your producers, a staff meeting at the new studio at 2:45, then at 3:15 you have a conference call with that radio station about the podcast interview, then at 4:00, you have a dental appointment.” Said a small groundhog as she flipped through a tiny planner.

“Thanks, Molly. Sounds like today’s turning out to be pretty routine, though I thought I had a dinner date at 6?” Suki slipped into some stockings, fanning her face to get her mud mask to dry. “Cancelled, he said he had a last minute meeting.” Molly said as she handed her a black dress bag. “Ugh, fine. These fucking animals are all trash compared to my Tanaka…I hope he’s still alive at least.” Suki got up, washed her face and put her dress on.

“Alright, I’ll need you to reschedule that dental appointment and instead schedule a meeting with Mr. Tanaka’s attorney.” She instructed. “Yes, Ms. Suki, will there be anything else?” Molly asked as she scribbled in her planner. “No that’s it. Go on now, get it done.”

Suki closed the walk-in closet behind her as Molly left the bedroom. She got to her office and went to close the door, a huge lion had been laying in wait and did it for her. She scoffed. “I’m assuming you came all the way here to tell me that the job is done?” She asked. “Not quite.” Ibuki replied. Suki rolled her eyes. “Damn it. How hard could it possibly be for an entire pride of lions to kill one deer?” She sneered.

“You would be surprised.” Said a familiar voice from behind her, Suki froze. “O-Oguma?” She slowly turned around. Oguma’s eyes burned with hatred as he approached, his chest puffed, slightly. His lip curled as he spoke.

“Of course it was you. How could I expect anything less from such a hideous creature.” He said. She rolled her eyes. “You killed Tanaka.” She said. “He wanted to hurt me. You sent a merciless criminal organization after me and my child just because you didn’t get your big pay day. I will not let you get away with that.” He said. She looked between Oguma and Ibuki. “So what? You’re going to kill me?” She said.

“Ibuki…” Oguma walked around her to the door, and locked it. “Are you hungry?” He asked. Ibuki smiled, “She’s raw.” He quipped. Oguma raised a brow. “You’re accustomed doing things raw.” He said flatly, making the lion giggle.

Ibuki rolled his shoulders, walking toward Suki. “Wait! Just wait a damn minute, Oguma. We could talk about this…compromise. I promise to leave you and your family alone. And you just forget about me, I’ll pay the lions to leave you alone. Please.”

“No, you don’t get to do that. You don’t get to beg for mercy now. When my son was torn from my arms, I begged for them to let him go. They didn’t listen, and neither will we.” Oguma’s hands balled into fists as he was brought back to that moment. The pain of profound loss…the grief he felt as he could do nothing but watch helplessly.

Suki tried to run, Ibuki caught her, slamming her into a tall shelf. She fell to the floor in a heap as photos and trophies fell on her head. Ibuki dragged her to him, hard blows landing to her face. She coughed harshly, trying to kick him away. Oguma sat on the edge of the desk watching. Ibuki started eating from the throat. Long sharp fangs tore through flesh like it was butter. He tore away at the clothes to expose more of the tasty flesh underneath. She was long dead by the time the lion had made a decent dent in the torso.

“Full?” Oguma asked. Ibuki nodded. “Yeah. Let’s go.” He said.

“Well, NOW I need to piss.” Oguma said, he smiled at Ibuki as he made his way to the bathroom. Ibuki snorted.

Chapter Text

Free couldn’t look the others in the eye since they returned to the base. He sat on the wall outside near the bridge smoking a cigarette. There was an unspoken level of apprehension, the other Shishigumi were angry and saddened at the loss of Ibuki and thought him to be the perpetrator. Needless to say, he was avoided.

“Hey, can I get one?” Said a voice from behind him. “I’m surprised you’re talking to me, Dolph.” He said as he handed the other lion the box of cigarettes and the lighter. “I know what you did. Hopefully, he got as far away as possible by now.” Dolph said, cigarette hanging from his lips. He lit it.

“I knew the tip was bogus…the way he looked at that fawn when we brought him back...I could see the moment his mask slipped. He was not happy. That kid stopped crying as soon as he was in Ibuki’s arms. When he came to me saying we were under attack, I knew what he was going to do. I wanted to stop him but…man, I haven’t been happy for a long time. I didn’t want to throw poor ‘Buki under the bus just for that asshole.” Free said. Dolph nodded slowly, “So you gave him an out.” He said. “Yeah, now chief has everyone out looking for his deer. I think I know where they are but I’m not saying a damn thing.” Free grunted.

"He won't be happy if he finds out..." Dolph said as he took another drag from the cigarette. "Yeah, I know," Free said bitterly. "That's why I'm kinda just on my own…out here." Free said and took a drag from the cigarette.

Free’s phone rang, he picked up, the voice on the end not waiting for a greeting. “Boss says he has information on the deer. Get back for assignments.” Then the person hung up. “Shit…we have to get-“ “I heard.” “You don’t think he knows he’s alive, do you?” Free asked nervously. “You’d better hope not.” Dolph said, snuffing out the cigarette with his shoe.

They get to the office and the chief is unreadable. “As you know, we’ve had to get of one of our more capable men. I’m expecting you all to double your efforts in his absence. Know that I will not tolerate anymore failure.” His hand tightly gripped the handle of his cane.

“Now, my eyes on the street have given me a general location of the deer. Start looking, but don’t kill on sight. Bring the both of them back here.” The chief said. “Why?” Dolph asked. The chief smirked, “So we could feast, Dolph. Don’t you think you deserve a reward for all your hard work?” “I…thank you, boss.” “Good, now get to it.”

Each of the lions filed out of the office into the dark city streets. Their orders were to locate the deer but they were also not to kill him on sight. All of them were already on edge given that Ibuki was already gone and they were now being tasked with tracking the deer that had been responsible for his death.

“These are the locations he gave us to check.“ Dolph said showing them a marked map. “These two are way too far outside the market. I’m not going there.” Jinma said. The others mumbled in agreement. “I’ll look there, don’t worry about it.” Free volunteered, only he knew the marked locations were a little too close for comfort to where he was sure Ibuki would be hiding and recuperating. “I’ll go with you.” Miguel offered. Free hardly hid his cringe. “Why?” He asked. “Cover more ground that way.” Miguel shrugged.

“I don’t need a babysitter.” Free said a bit too harshly. Miguel’s face contorted in confusion. “Why are you so against me going with you?” He asked. “You got something to hide?”

Free shook his head, “No, I’m just sick of you guys acting like you don’t trust me.” He hoped that excuse would be enough. “That’s not what this is about. We all just want this to be over.” Dope offers. “I’m going alone.” Free reiterated. “No, you’re not. I’ll go with you. The rest of you check the other locations, call in if you find something important. Got it?” Dolph said, the others nodded.

“You need to cover yourself better.” Dolph reminded. “I know.” Free let Dolph take the wheel. “You know where he is, huh? I hope he doesn’t shoot on sight.” Dolph said. “We have to get them out of the city. We don’t know who chief has watching out for any signs of them. One false move and not only will everyone be found but they’ll know I helped him.” Free rubbed at his face worriedly. Dolph sighed. “Ibuki’s not gonna want to run forever.” He said. Free looked at him but said nothing.

-

Cosmo was returning from the store with Louis. She kept his head covered with a little hoodie as she took him to pick what he wanted to eat for dinner. She knew a thing or two about laying low and staying cooped up in that room all day wasn’t good for Louis. Besides, there weren’t many animals around, and she kept a keen eye out for any lions.

Louis kept his little face hidden as they walked up the stairs to the apartment.

“This the place?” She heard as she rounded the corner. Two lions in suits stood at the door, knocking. She quickly turned to leave, the shifting of the plastic bags catching the lions’ attention. “Hey! I know her. Wait!” They chased after Cosmo halfway down the stairs. “Don’t. Run. You won’t get far.” Dolph said, his voice making Louis whimper.

“Don’t be afraid. We’re trying to help you. Let’s get inside, I’ll explain everything.” Free said. She had no choice but to comply.

Once inside, she sat in the corner by the wall holding Louis close saying nothing. “Where did they go?” Dolph asked. She kept her mouth shut, rubbing Louis’s back comfortingly. “If they don’t leave, our boss is gonna find them. He has the entire organization searching the area, we’re the only two that came out this far but they’re getting close and Ibuki is running out of time.” Free said, crouching down to her eye level.

“How do I know this isn’t some sort of trick? You might be lying in wait just to drag us right to your boss.” She said, her voice shaking. “Because I’m the one that let him go. Our boss was gonna shoot him right between the eyes. I shot him so everyone would think he’s dead.” Free got all the down to the floor sitting beside her, Louis peeked from beneath the hood. Free gave a small smile as their eyes met.

“They’re on their way to kill your boss. You need to decide where your loyalty lies.” She said. Dolph and Free looked at each other.

-

The chief poured himself a drink. He sat in his chair, cane leaning on his desk. Eyes closed in content as a presence revealed itself. “It’s about time you got here.” He said, face amused. “I’ve been busy, boss.” Ibuki stood in front of him as he had done for so many years. The chief opened his eyes. “Do you remember when you first came looking to join the Shishigumi? What did I tell you?” He asked.

“‘Every initiate is bonded to his boss as a son is bonded to his father.’” Ibuki recalled word for word. The chief nodded in appreciation. “That’s right. When the world turned its back on you…rather when you were tossed into its unforgiving jaws, I was the one to pull you out. So tell me, what could those herbivores give you that I couldn’t?” The chief topped off his drink.

“You trap the vulnerable into doing your bidding. Me, Dolph, Agata…we were kids. You picked us up off the street, dusted us off and put guns in our hands. It wasn’t a bad life…sometimes I even enjoyed it. But… I woke up one morning and looked in the mirror and I didn’t recognize myself anymore. It was uncanny. I realized that everything that was me, was gone and only the Shishigumi remained.” Ibuki said, tears stinging his eyes.

“You were nothing, Ibuki. You were sold for spare parts. I made you!” The chief broke the lowball glass under his fist. Swiping at the shards sending them flying. Ibuki drew his gun, aiming it at the chief. “I’m still nothing. You didn’t make shit!” Ibuki cocked the gun. The chief pulled his gun from the holster letting off a round, Ibuki dodged. The chief shot twice more as Ibuki hid behind the sofa.

-

“Did you find anything?” Miguel asked Jinma. “Not a thing.” Jinma grumbled. “Hino?” The pale lion shook his head. “No, place was empty for the most part.” He said. Dope, Agata, Free, and Dolph arrived as well. Dope and Agata looking worse for wear. “What happened to you guys?” Free asked. “Some old man with a shot gun chased us off his property.” Agata said as he tried to wipe away from mud from his suit. “Oh man, that’s…”

They heard gunshots coming from inside. Free and Dolph looked at each other as the lions drew their guns, they head off the others as they ran in, heading up the stairs.

-

Ibuki leaned out from behind the sofa to shoot, the chief caught him in the forearm making him drop the gun. Ibuki fell to the floor, the chief approached, his gun aimed. “Don’t you dare.” He warned as Ibuki reached for his. “It didn’t have to be like this, Ibuki. If you had just-AGH!” The chief cried out as he was speared, gun flying from his hand. Oguma’s antlers gored the lion. He dragged them upward, ramming the chief again until he fell to the ground clutching his side. Blood drenched the stag’s face, staining his eyes and fur red as he glared at the chief. “I won’t let you hurt him anymore.” Oguma growled, as he panted.

He picked up ibuki’s gun, aiming it at the lion with a steady hand.

The chief coughed up blood, he chuckled darkly. “What do you think you’re doing with that?”

“Thinking about pulling this trigger…and a thorn from my side.” Oguma said, his eyes wide with hatred and all the rage that built up every time he looked over his shoulder or recalled Louis’s terrified screams. With controlled breaths he steadied his shaking body. “You’ll never get out of here alive. And the livestock you tried to pass for a son will be all alone again.” The chief tried to sit up and fell back with a groan.

Free stumbled through the door, closing it behind him, his gun aimed at Oguma. “Oh shit.” He panicked. “Shit shit shit.” He looked from Oguma to Ibuki to the chief. All four of them stood at a stand still.

Free's eyes widened in shock as he saw the situation that he had walked into. He could see the chief lying on the floor bleeding, a stag with blood-covered antlers standing over him with a gun aiming right at his face, and a lion in his gun's cross-hairs. He could only assume that the deer standing next to the wounded chief was the aforementioned Oguma, himself. Free's heart was pounding in his chest as he was unsure of what to do.

“Free…call the others in. Now!” The chief demanded. Free couldn’t move. “Why are you hesitating? Why…ugh.” The chief groaned. “I know those eyes…you’re the one that grabbed Louis from me. Brought him here to be eaten…” Oguma said. Free swallowed. “I was just doing my job, man…I got into this so I could beat guys up, eat meat and bang chicks. Shit was was never supposed to be this complicated.” He scratched his head, voice breaking. “Free! What’s happening? Where’s the boss?” Dope called.

“Get in here now!” The chief called to them. The found of footsteps rushing up the stairs echoed through the door. Free sighed deeply. “Here…This is for your little boy.” Free said as he locked the door. The chief’s eyes widened in shock. “No…”

Oguma put the gun to the chief’s head. “Looks like you miscalculated how much your men actually give a damn about you.” He said. “DON’T!” The chief cried. Oguma pulled the trigger and the lion’s lifeless body fell limp with a dull thud as blood saturated the pristine carpet.

A shot broke the lock to the office door as the other Shishigumi busted in to witness the carnage. “It’s the deer…and Ibuki! He’s alive!” Agata didn’t know which was more shocking. “Ibuki, what the hell is going on?” Dope asked. “Hey, herbivore! You killed our boss! Do you have any idea what you’ve just done?”

“Herbivore? I’m not just another herbivore.” The stag turned to them, adjusting his glasses. “I’m Oguma. Boss of the Shishigumi.”

The lions were understandably in a state of shock as they witnessed the chief lying dead on the ground with a bullet wound to the head. They could only stare as their prey stood tall before them and declared that he wasn't just some helpless herbivore, he was their new boss. The lions were silent for a few moments before speaking again. "Boss?" Dope asked in disbelief.

"Yes, I'm the boss now. The old bastard is dead." Oguma replied. He looked over at Free, and nodded in appreciation. "Until now, this organization was a bunch of wild lions just waiting for someone to get their claws in and set them in the right direction. I plan to do exactly that and make the shishigumi the most feared and respected in the whole black market. From now on, I'm the boss. Any objections?" Oguma spoke with authority, this prowess as a businessman giving him the air of a true leader.

“What would you like us to do, boss?” Free asked, holstering his gun.

“What’s your name?” Oguma asked. “Free.”

“Get them to help you clean this up, Free. Our work isn’t finished yet.” Oguma ordered.

“Yes, boss.”

-

The stag walked through the doors of horns conglomerate two weeks after going MIA. Members of the board were present for their weekly meeting as scheduled when he walked in. “Oguma! Where have you been?” The dall sheep straightened up in attention at the sight of the stag.

“I have come to share some important news in regards to the future of this company-“

“Hold on just a minute, you disappeared without so much as a word-“

“DO NOT INTERRUPT ME.” Oguma bellowed.

“You’re out of line Oguma.” The sheep persisted.

Oguma looked around at the concerned faces sitting around the table, his jaw clenching in contempt. “You’re all fired.” He said. “What!” They all cried, eyes widened, looking at Oguma as though he had lost his mind.

Oguma opened the door, “Come in.” He said, carnivores…lions joined him where he stood at the head of the table.

“This past month, I’ve learned the importance of having employees in this boardroom that I can trust. That’s what you are. Employees. Yet you seem to have gotten too comfortable and have forgotten your place. When my back was against the wall, I couldn’t rely on any of you. However, as of today, I’m relieving you of the responsibility effective immediately. Now get the hell out of my boardroom, unless you want to argue with them…” He gestured to the lions behind him who towered over every one of them. “Over their seats.”