The state of government had wavered on the verge of collapse as the nation had began to embrace the elite, the genetically enhanced metahumans that start to appear out of the wood work. The Senate has dissolved to fifty members and the House of Representatives has disintegrated to a hundred members, all having the genetic code as needed to maintain their seat. One had stepped forward to vie for the presidency, Nathan Petrelli.

Most had expected Nathan to run for presidency since the day he won over the survivors of New York after the explosion that rocked the nation two years ago. He brought the state back together and they hope he'll do the same for their nation.

Nathan has been in office for a few months, the public waiting for the announcement of his second in command, the Vice President. Rumour has it that he'll appoint his brother Peter, but nothing has been set in stone.

The paperwork has dwindled down to only a few pertinent items in his inbox. Nathan smiles as he signs his name on the dotted line, officially declassifying the status of every subhuman and the mandatory blood testing at birth. Evolution of the fittest had begun.

Nathan glances up, smiling as his brother enters the room. "Peter," he nods as he continues with his current work, pausing only when he stops beside him.

"Nathan," he drawls sitting up on his desk, staring intently at him as he licks his lips, a small smile quirking at his lips.

Nathan offers him a smile as he reaches out and runs his fingers down Peter's thigh, he pauses as the muscles tense under his caress and his gaze snaps to Peter's face. He exhales sharply as he notes the undeniable disgust shining through his eyes. He jumps up from his seat and takes a step back. "You're not Peter," he accuses, instantly knowing that the man before him is not his brother. He searches his memory, not recalling anyone that had such a power.

Peter chuckles, flashing him a bright smile before he stands. "You're fucking your brother," he states as the illusion drops. "Figures."

Nathan's jaw clenches and he glares at the man he had assumed was dead. "You're -"

"Dead?" Sylar offers, smirking as he glances around the room. "Nice digs," he muses. "I've always wanted to stay in the White House."

Nathan's eyes narrow and his lips thin. "Who said you're invited to stay?"

Sylar snorts as he takes on another image, one of the current president. "I did."

Nathan stares unwavering at his own reflection. "Why are we even talking about this?" He questions harshly. "You could have killed me-"

"What fun is that?" He shrugged, mimicking Nathan's own pose.

"You're not one to play with your prey," Nathan states, trying to figure out how to talk his way out of his pending death. He's a politician, he should be able to talk the murderer into becoming his ally.

"True," he purrs as Nathan suddenly feels his body tensing, freezing in place as pinned by an invisible force. "But, it's been awhile."

"Is this what you truly want?" He questions as he studies him closely. "To be president under a false name?" Nathan can't help but grin as the uncertainty flickers in his eyes. "Do you want the world to love you as Nathan Petrelli or as yourself?"

Sylar growls, dropping the illusion as he crosses his arms over his chest. "I'll take what I can get."

Nathan pauses as a solution appears before him and he instantly knows he'll be safe. "As Vice President, you'll earn a name for yourself," he offers. "You'll be groomed to be the next President. The world will have no other choice but to love you."

Sylar stares at him, dropping his arms to his side. "Why would I agree to-"

"Because you want to be the President," Nathan continues, knowing that he's right. "And I need a Vice President. You're strong," he pauses as he glances over him. "Probably the most powerful of us all."

He preens momentarily at the comment, smiling at the thought. "And here, I expected you to say it was your fucking brother."

Nathan smiles, reflecting on his brother for a second, he nods. "He is powerful, but he lacks the control as you well know."

Sylar laughs, nodding his head. "And if I say yes?"

"I'll teach you everything you need to know-" he states confidently. "You'll be president."

"President," Sylar repeats, his lips quirking up in a small smile before he frowns. "I assume there are some stipulations."

Nathan laughs, "of course."

"Let me guess," He muses. "No killing, don't touch my brother, etc."

Nathan nods, flashing him a smile. "One cannot be a wanted felon and be president of the United States." He muses. "You'll need to adapt a new name- Sylar is wanted for murder."

Sylar frowns, nodding in understanding. "Gabriel Gray," he states with more confidence then he's had in years.

Nathan pauses, his eyes widening in realization at his true identity. He smiles as his body is released to his own devices. "I'll announce your appointment to Vice Presidency in the morning," he nods as he offers his hand to him. "Gabriel."

Sylar grimaces slightly at the name and exhales slowly as he shakes Nathan's hand. "Deal."

~

Sylar waits in the next room, unable to hide his smile as he listens to the heated argument between Nathan and Peter. Peter's concerns are valid. Nathan never did ask where Sylar had been in the last year or why he suddenly reappeared. It amuses him that it's Nathan that has taken his side, that he wants him as his VP.

The heated discussion fades and he can hear the soft slide of skin against skin, the unmistakable sound of an illicit kiss. Sylar pulls his hearing back, until he can't hear a thing behind the closed doors.

"Sylar," Peter grunts as he suddenly appears beside him and he stands to meet him.

"Peter," He grates, staring him down. The last time they meet face to face, they were trying to kill each other, but time has changed. The situation has forced them to be allies ; they are now on the same side.

"I don't agree with this," he states as he raises his hand, gesturing to his brother's office. "I would have-"

"Do you think it's wise to be in office when you're sleeping with the current president?" Sylar questions dryly, catching Peter off guard at the insinuation.

"I don't-" he begins to deny as Sylar chuckles and Peter stumbles back.

"Don’t forget that I have many of the same powers as you, and more control. Even your brother agrees." He states, smirking as he raises his hand and lets the glow of radiation appear in his hand. "Boom."

Peter growls, raising his hand to strike when Nathan appears at the door. "Enough." He shouts as he glares at the two. "Gabriel, Peter."

"Going by another name, doesn't change who you are," Peter grumbles as he disappears from the room in a flicker of light.

"You'll have to give him some time," Nathan remarks, crossing his arms over his chest. "You have tried to kill him in the past."

"A failure on my part," Sylar grates, staring over the spot that Peter once stood.

"We have a deal," Nathan reminds him and he sighs.

"I am a man of my word," he replies, holding his hand out to the door. "After you."

~

"I have something to show you," Nathan starts as he opens the panelling to a hidden hallway. "We have a lab."

"A lab?" Sylar repeats, quirking an eyebrow as he follow Nathan down the hallway. "The government has its own secret lab?"

"Something like that," he chuckles as he opens the door to an observation room that looked into a slightly bigger room.

Sylar steps forward, his eyes gazing over the lab equipment and the small cot bed in the corner. He gasps as he recognizes the man huddled on the bed. "Mohinder," he exhales as he places a hand on the glass. "I don't understand."

"It's this or the life of a slave," Nathan explains. "He doesn't really have a choice."

"But, he's done so much for us, his research-"

"And that's the only reason he's here." Nathan snaps. "He's not one of us. He'll never be." He pauses, studying him closely. "Don't tell me that you have feelings for him."

"It's none of your concern." Sylar counters, unable to look away from the man his thoughts always return to. After a small pause, Sylar turns to him. "Why are you showing me this?"

Nathan shrugs. "I believe Dr. Suresh could use your help."

"My help?" He snorts, turning his gaze back to Mohinder, unable to imagine Mohinder needing or wanting his help. "How can I help him?"

"He accomplished the most advancement in his research when he had a sample of your DNA. Think of what he could do, if he had a fresh sample." Nathan muses as he presses a pass key into Sylar’s hand. "It's for the greater good."

~

Sylar waits to use the pass key until he can no longer hear Nathan's footsteps echo across the cement tiles, craving the privacy this needs. Not that he needs the key to open the door, but there is a certain satisfaction that he has been given the right to be there. He slips the plastic card through the slot and there is a soft buzz, engaging the lock and letting him in the so called lab. When in reality it's more like a prison cell.

His entrance goes unnoticed and he steps closer to Mohinder. He pauses, drinking in his form, taking a moment to hear the lull of his heartbeat and soft intake of breath. He has waited a long time for this moment. "Doctor," he calls out to him and Mohinder stirs, looking up at him with dark, blank eyes.

Mohinder shakes his head and begins to laugh. "Of course," he muses in between harsh chuckles. "I'm going blissfully insane."

Sylar's heart aches at the omission and he falters not knowing what to say. This isn't the reunion he had in mind. "Mohinder," he states a little louder and gruffer then he had intended and Mohinder looks to him once more, his mouth dropping ever so slightly.

"Sylar?" He gasps, quickly getting to his feet, his heart picking up in rate. "My god."

"Not exactly," Sylar smirks as he watches the passion flicker behind Mohinder's eyes, bringing life once again to his face.

"All the reports claimed you were dead." Mohinder states as he raises his hand, almost as if he wants to touch him, but he hesitates and drops his hand down to his side. "How did you survive?"

"They left me to die," he states as if it didn't bother him as much as it did. "I used my powers to knit off the blood flow, to cauterize the wound." Sylar shrugs. "I waited."

"And you're back, now?" He questions as he studies him. "To what cause?"

He smiles, "the time was right."

"Of course," Mohinder snorts as he sits back down on the cot bed, lowering his head to his hands. He rubs his brow and sighs, glancing back up at him. "Why are you here?"

"Nathan thought-" he begins as Mohinder abruptly stands up, fire in his eyes.

"I don't care what the fuck Nathan thought," He hisses. "Human life should not be demoralized- we should not be forced to be a slave to their ungodly will. They are not better because they have the genetic code- it doesn't make them special."

"At least you're safe," Sylar protests and Mohinder simply glares in reply. "You're free to work on your-"

"It wasn't my choice," He whispers, his voice raw with emotions.

Sylar turns away, unable to look at him without offering him the comfort he wants to. The comfort that he knows would be dismissed without a second thought. It isn't time to cross that line, not yet.

He waits and his attention span wavers as his eyes drift over the equipment before him. Sylar's finger trail over the large monitor in front of him and he presses the power on. His eyes narrowing as an image of a brain appears on the screen before him. "What's this?" He questions as he touches the screen.

Mohinder sighs from behind him and sits back down on the cot bed. "Brain imaging, a new technology from the Company, it's similar to an MRI, but it's more complex. It scans the brain and gives us a 3D imaging to view." He states wearily. "There are scans from everyone that the Company took in and studied and of all its employees that exhibited powers." Mohinder sighs. "It's rather worthless."

"Why would you say that?" Sylar questions as he presses a random key and the image rotates ever so slightly. He pushes the key once more and gasps as he identifies the critical area of the brain that holds the key to the powers this person held. His eyes flutter close as he feels the familiar heat of his own power working and he exhales slowly as the changes in his mind takes place. It's almost too easy.

"There's nothing constant between the imaging," Mohinder answers not paying attention to Sylar's actions at the keyboard. "There is nothing to work with- it's just a 3D imaging, a picture. It's worthless."

"What was his power?" He demands turning to Mohinder, who raises a brow up at him.

"Whose powers?" Mohinder repeats as he stands up and crosses over to him, he glances at the monitor and reads the number highlighted in the corner of the screen. He pauses as he opens a file beside him and rummages through some papers. "Her," he stresses in a slightly amused tone as he corrects Sylar's assumption. "Well, according to this her power is electric manipulation. Apparently she can shoot bolts of electricity from her hands."

Sylar glances at the monitor once more and then glances down at his hand. He visualizes the powers manifesting until he feels the surge in his body as he learns the new power as if it was his own. Sylar smiles as the flicker of blue electric bolts dance on his outstretched palm, "Like this?"

Mohinder gasps, his eyes widening as he reaches out and ghost his fingers over the blue sparks. "How?" He questions as the blue sparks nip lightly at his skin and he withdrawals his hand.

"You're wrong," Sylar replies as he dissipates the electric bolts and turns his attention back to the monitor. "There." He states as he points to the spot where her genetic code rests unseeing to the naked eye.

Mohinder stares at the imaging he's spent hours studying. "It's just an excess spot of glial cells, it's nothing."

"It's everything," Sylar insists. "It's the centre of her powers. It's what makes them tick."

There's a moment of silence as Mohinder processes the information supplied. "That's what you do," Mohinder whispers in awe. "You can just look at the brain and literally change your genetic code to match."

"Yes," he purrs.

Sylar smiles as Mohinder begins to theorize and talk rapidly about the genetic codes and possible advancement, the excitement in his voice is simply arousing. This is the Mohinder he knows, this is the man he cares for. "Sylar," he states, focusing his thoughts back to the present.

"Yes?" He questions, offering a rare smile as Mohinder flashes him his beautiful bright smile that he's sorely missed.

"You haven't listen to a thing I've said," he chuckles as he sits down on his stool and starts to prepare a slide. "I said, I'd like to take a sample of your blood."

"Anything you need doctor," He supplies as he shrugs off his jacket and begins to unroll his sleeve. "Nathan thought-" his voice trails off as Mohinder slams his hand down on the lab table.

Sylar watches as the muscles tense in his arms and then slowly relaxes. "I'd prefer if you didn't speak about him." He sneers, his eyes narrowing in anger. "Or his brother."

He nods, mentally adding the Petrelli brothers to the list of topics not to mention in Mohinder's presence. And he can't help but wonder if it goes on the list before the topic of this father or not, but he won't bring that up at the moment.

"Would you like some spinal fluid as well?" Sylar questions, trying desperately to return Mohinder back to his previous jovial scientific mood.

"What?" He gasps, his body fully relaxing as he glances at him in shock. "You would- I mean, you'd let me take a sample?"

"Wouldn't it be more beneficial?" He asks and Mohinder nods, his smile lighting up his face once more and it's all worth it. "All in the name of science, Doctor."

~

Sylar growls at the knock at the door, he doesn't need any more interruptions this morning. Especially if he has any hope of escaping down to the lab before nightfall, he has to finish his ever growing pile of paperwork. "What?" He snarls as there is yet another knock on his door.

"Is that any way for you to the address the President?" Nathan muses as he enters the room without being asked and Sylar simply glares in response.

Sylar plasters a false smile on his face and stands up from his seat. "If I had only known it was you at my door," he drawls as he circles around his desk and leans against it.

"Don't patronize me," He responds, squaring his shoulders as he fixes Sylar with a withering glare. "You knew I was coming down the hallway, before I even knocked at your door."

Sylar smirks, not able to deny his remark. "What can I do for you, Mr. President?"

Nathan sighs with irritation. "I need you to fly to Tokyo for a meeting."

Sylar stares at him in disbelief. "Me?"

"You are the Vice President," he shrugs. "You didn't think that you'd spend all your time behind the desk or playing footsies with the good doctor, now, did you?"

"What I do in my free time shouldn't concern you," he snaps, wanting more then anything to throttle the man before him.

"What concerns me is that you've spent hours of your so called free time down in the lab and yet there is no progress in his work to show for it." Nathan states as he sweeps his gaze over him. "Your plane leaves within the hour."

"This is absurd," Sylar gasps. "I know nothing about the meeting or-"

"You'll have fourteen hours to go over the pertinent files," Nathan offers, a smile curving at his lips. "With your eidetic memory, it shouldn't be a problem. This is what you wanted, after all."

Sylar bites his inner lip, forcing back the bitter response on his tongue. "Of course," he responds after a strained second. "I wouldn't miss it."

"Good," Nathan purrs as he spins on his heels and leaves him staring after him.

Sylar takes a deep breath and tries to calm the simmering anger that threatens to burst free. All he can think about is not having the time to make it down to the lab and disappointing Mohinder. He glances at the clock and curses, wishing he had the power to alter time. "One day," he vows.

~

Mohinder busies himself in the lab, counting down the minutes until Sylar's return. It's become a routine that he looks forward to- in fact, it's the only thing that he has to do in this dreary existence. Sylar comes by every day. He examines the 3D brain imaging that Mohinder has selected for him and he absorbs the new power with ease. After Sylar fully acclimates his new ability, Mohinder tests it until Sylar has fully mastered it. It's a drilling process that fascinates the scientist within him.

He fears the day that he will no longer have any new scans for him. And he worries that Sylar will find out that there are a few scans he's destroyed before he's even had a chance to study them. Mohinder's conscience will not allow him to give a former murderer that much power to wield. Even now there is a small part of him that is appalled that he's helped him as much as he had- but, he senses the change that lurks within the monster he's once known.

He rubs the back of his neck and stands, starting to pace the small length of the room as the minutes tick by. Sylar's late, and it isn't until that exact moment that he realizes how much his visits mean to him. Mohinder sighs, slightly frustrated at how much the murderer has infiltrated his life, his thoughts-

"Doctor," his voice cuts into his inner musings and he turns to the door to see him standing before him, a slight smug smile on his face.

"Sylar," he nods, unable to hide the smile that threatens to emerge.

"I can't stay." Sylar states, jumping straight to the point and Mohinder recoils at the news.

"What? Why?" Mohinder gasps, hating how desperate he sounds.

"Na-" he pauses, his lips thinning ever so slightly as he cuts off his statement, but Mohinder knows exactly what he meant to say. "I have to fly to Tokyo."

Mohinder pales, shrinking back toward his cot and he takes a seat. "For how long?"

"I don't know," Sylar replies as he glances at his watch and groans. "I have to go." He adds as he begins to back out of the room. He pauses ever so slightly, his mouth opening to speak, but he closes it quickly and Mohinder can't help but wonder what he meant to say. Good bye? I'll miss you?

Mohinder just nods, watching him go. "Have a safe trip," he states as an afterthought, but he knows Sylar heard him.

He leans his head back against the wall and closes his eyes, the intense feeling of loneliness washing over him. Mohinder hasn't felt like this in weeks, not since Sylar started visiting him, giving him a purpose once more.

Mohinder's not sure how long it is before he opens his eyes, but when he does he comes face to face with the man he's grown to hate more than his father's murderer. "Nathan," he addresses as he quickly gets to his feet.

"Mohinder," he nods as he briefly glances around the room and then turns his gaze back to him.

"What do you want?" Mohinder questions, his hands curling into fists at his side.

"I assume Sylar has been to see you," Nathan states as Mohinder nods in reply. "I think you should use his absence to finish the paperwork you've neglected to hand in."

Mohinder stiffens, rising his chin in defiance. "I have nothing to hand in."

"Tsk. Tsk." He sighs shaking his head. "I know there's something else going on down here."

"I have no idea what you're insinuating-" Mohinder begins as Peter suddenly appears beside him and he stumbles back against his cot.

"He's lying," Peter states as he frowns and cocks his head to the side. "Something about scans and limitless-"

Mohinder glares at Peter, realizing that Peter is once more attempting to read his thoughts. He growls shifting his thoughts into his native tongue and smiles as Peter can no longer read his thoughts. "You have no right to go into my mind."

"And you have no rights at all," Nathan clarifies as he crosses his arms across his chest. "I want your reports by noon tomorrow, and don't bother trying to fabricate the truth." He states with complete authority and Mohinder nods in response. Nathan smiles brightly before he turns and leaves, Peter following quickly behind him.

Mohinder can only stare after them, he has nowhere else to go, he has no other choice but to follow Nathan's orders. He sighs and collapses onto the bed. He curls into himself, trying desperately to grab onto anything that will keep him sane. He exhales, tears burning his eyes, his thoughts focusing on Sylar as he drifts off to sleep.

~

It only takes Sylar an hour to go over the pertinent files needed for the meeting. Nathan had been correct, his eidetic memory had been beneficial for his needs, especially in this case. He pauses as he glances over to his travelling companion. "Are you going to glare at me for the entire flight?" He questions as he shifts in his seat to return her heated gaze.

She huffs, rolling her eyes. "You did try to kill me."

Sylar sighs. "Claire."

"I know," she drawls, crossing her arms over her chest. "You gave you're word, you won't hurt me, blah, blah, blah." She pauses, pursing her lips together. "It's not like I had a choice on the matter."

"Nathan insisted on someone coming with me," he begins. "And I prefer your company over Parkman's."

Her eyes flicker with amusement and she nods. "Ah."

Sylar snorts, turning his gaze away from hers. "And what exactly is that suppose to mean?"

Claire shrugs as she stands and stretches out her muscles. "Didn't want to play footsies with Mohinder's ex?"

Sylar stiffens at the comment and exhales sharply as Claire simply laughs.

"I gather you didn't know about that little titbit?" She muses as he tenses even more, hating the fact that he had no prior knowledge of a previous relationship between the two.

"That wasn't a factor," he states truthfully since he had no idea. "I don't care to have him playing in my head and blocking him takes considerable energy that I didn't want to waste on him."

"Fair enough," she states her tone more at ease as she takes a seat closer to him. "You really had no clue about them playing house, huh?"

Sylar bristles and his gaze snaps to hers. "Why do you care?"

She smiles, shrugging her shoulders once more. "Just curious, aren't you?"

"Fine." He sighs after a lengthy pause.

"From what I've read," Claire states as she glances down at her nails, chipping at her nail polish. "Our good doctor played house with the cop after he healed the girl."

"What girl?" Sylar questions as he studies her.

"Molly," she smiles. "I'm sure you remember her, you tried to kill her too. Killed her parents-"

Sylar growls. "Get to the point."

A small smile curves at her lips and she nods. "She was sick and Mohinder saved her at the company's request. He became one of her heroes- and when the company was disbanded he took her in."

"How does Parkman play into-"

"Per Molly's request," she supplies quickly. "She wanted him to come see her and you know Mohinder- He's hot. Who wouldn't stick around to play house?"

"In other words," Sylar grunts. "You have no idea."

"Minor detail," Claire snorts. "But, everyone knows about it. They were an item and then when I-" she pauses, biting her lip briefly in contemplation. "When I exposed us to the media they were forced apart."

"Yes," he nods as he studies her. "It was all your doing, the beginning of the revolution that changed the course of our history-"

"I only opened the door," she cut in. "It was Nathan that changed the world as we know it- I'm sure you heard the news. After all, you went after him."

"True." He muses. "Is that what you wanted?"

Claire sighs. "I just wanted to live a normal life. I was tired of the secrets, of hiding who I really was-"

"And your selfish whim condemned millions to live as slaves." He sneers and she bristles at his harsh words. "How can you live a normal life when your adoptive family was forced into slavery along with the rest of the general public?"

"They're safe," she insists, her voice trembling ever so slightly. "Like my father would allow that to happen."

Sylar purses his lips together, his mind reeling with the implications of the comment. "Bennet," He states more in clarification and she nods. "He's truly safe?"

"Yes. I mean, I don't know exactly where they are," she begins softly as she waves her hand to her head. "Effective deniability," she sighs. "Peter and Matt are always around, listening for a stray thought… but, I know they're safe. You should know by now, my father is very resourceful."

He laughs, nodding his head. "Yes, I would agree with that."

"Why do you care about them?" Claire questions after a short pause. "It's not like he has powers-"

"But, as you stated, he is very resourceful." Sylar purrs. "He can still be useful to me."

Claire scrunches her face at his comment. "I don't understand. What can he offer you?"

"Freedom."

"Freedom?" She repeats as she studies him. "But, you're free to do as-"

"I never said it was for me," he states as he rubs at his chest.

"Oh," she gasps as she straightens up in her chair, her eyes widening as she realizes the truth. "For Mohinder," she whispers and he nods in reply. "But how?"

"No need to worry about the details," he inhales as he tries to figure them out for himself. "We never had this discussion."

"Understood," she nods clasping her hands together as she studies him once more. "I'm sorry."

"For what?" Sylar grunts, not catching her meaning.

"I just never expected that you'd care for-" she mumbles more to herself as she tries to explain her thoughts. "That you would even attempt to-"

"Claire." He states in warning and she stiffens slightly.

"Of course," she whispers, shaking her head. "It's none of my business."

~

"You need Molly's power," Claire announces after a lengthy pause and Sylar looks at her in confusion.

"For what?" He questions as he puts aside his book. "I don't even know what her power is."

"She can find people, anywhere in the world… or at least you need a power similar to hers." She explains as she takes a sip of her drink. "You know, to find my dad, to help Mohinder."

Sylar frowns, realizing that he isn't familiar with her power and he can't recall ever reading about it from Mohinder's files. "And just how do you suggest I acquire it?"

"Peter mumbled something about you having more powers then before," she shrugs. "So, you have to be doing something to get them."

"Damn empathy."

"You are, aren't you?" She gasps, straightening in her chair. "I just thought he was jealous or something, but I didn't think- how?"

"It's none of your concern," Sylar grunts as he glares at her. "Just drop it."

"But you said you wouldn't kill again!"

"I haven't," he growls as he stands up, suddenly having the urge to pace, but not having the proper space to do so.

"Then how?" She asks, unable to stop herself and he groans in response.

"You're not going to drop this until I tell you," Sylar quips as he stares at her. "Are you?"

Claire smirks, glancing at her watch. "We still have ten hours to go," she muses. "And I'm very resilient."

He sighs, sitting back down in his seat. He feigns annoyance, but he's always wanted to tell someone how his powers work, especially someone with a power of their own. "I only need to look at their brain to harness the powers one possesses."

"Really?" She gasps, her eyes widening with awe. "You don't eat them?"

Sylar rolls his eyes. "Why does everyone assume I do?"

Claire just laughs, shaking her head. "So, you can just look at it and poof, you have their power."

He nods, slightly amused at her explanation of his powers. "Yes."

"Hmm," she hums as she studies him. "So, technically you can slice my skull open, absorb my power by just looking at my brain, and then I'd patch myself up since you don't actually do anything to my brain."

"In theory," Sylar smirks, his body instantly thrumming with energy at the thought of absorbing her power- one of the powers that he's wanted for so long. A power he's been denied thus far.

"Okay."

"Okay?" He gasps, unable to believe her admittance. "You'd let me-"

"Hurry, before I change my mind." She demands as she sits up a little straighter in her chair and closes her eyes. "Just do it."

Sylar crosses over to her. "Don't move," he states and watches as the muscles in her arms tense and she grabs onto the arm rests. "Good," He exhales slowly as he brushes his fingers over her brow, instantly freezing and numbing her scalp, not wanting to cause her any additional pain.

She squeaks at the sensation and he can't help but smirk as he slices through her scalp and bone with a flicker of his hand. He squeezes the blood vessels close, not allowing a drop to fall. He lifts the skull to expose her brain and he exhales sharply as he's allowed to see the source of her power.

He closes his eyes briefly as his powers surge and his blood warms, manipulating his own genetic code to match. Sylar grins as he opens his eyes and places Claire's skull back into place, watching in amazement as her body knits back together.

He stumbles back and sits down in his seat. "Claire?"

She blinks as she runs her fingers over her scalp. "Wow," she whispers in awe. "That was intense."

He chuckles as he cuts into the flesh of his hand and watches as his own skin knits back together. "Thank you."

"Actually, thank you." Claire smiles, laughing lightly as she continues to run her fingers over her scalp. "Now, I have no reason to fear you- you have my power."

Sylar nods, "you have nothing to fear."

She flashes him a bright smile. "So, we're going to get Mohinder out of his jail cell."

"We?" He repeats, raising a brow in amusement.

"Naturally," she grins as she taps at her chin. "It'll piss Nathan off and I'm so bored of being a glorified secretary."

"This isn't about you." Sylar clarifies as he leans back in his chair, closing his eyes as he reflects on the man that he's willing to risk his life for.

"Yeah, yeah," Claire huffs. "It's about the doctor you've got the hots for, not that I blame you."

"Claire."

"I know. I know." She laughs once more, smiling at him. "This is kinda nice."

Sylar laughs, nodding in agreement. "It kinda is."

~

Sylar can't help but smile as he walks down to the lab, his heart racing in anticipation to see Mohinder, to speak to him after such a long absence. The door slides open and he's hit with the immediate feeling of disarray and his previous elation starts to fade.

"Mohinder?" He calls out as he steps into the lab and quickly crosses to the middle of the room. He stops in his path as he sees Mohinder curled up on the bare cot bed. Sylar's heart aches painfully and he instantly reaches out to him, his fingers ghosting over his form. "Mohinder," he states more urgently, needing him to respond to him.

Sylar is so concerned over Mohinder that it isn't until that exact moment when he realizes there's a third heartbeat echoing in the room. He stiffens as he glances around the room to see no one else in the lab, which leaves only one possibility.

"Peter," he grates as he spins on his heels, staring in the direction of the quickened heartbeat. "Did you think I wouldn't notice your presence?"

Peter remains silent, his heart skipping a beat as Sylar advances closer to him. "You left us no choice," he states after a pregnant pause, materializing in front of him.

"Leave us be," Sylar warns. "You've already done enough damage."

"You have no authority over me," He states as he crosses his arms over his chest.

"That's right," he drawls. "You're hiding in your brother's shadow. You're nothing."

Peter lashes out before Sylar can react, not expecting the attack. Sylar growls, wiping the blood from his face, but he doesn't fight back. There are rules against such things, he will not be baited.

"Get out." Sylar hisses as the red mark fades from his face and Peter gasps in shock.

"How?" He questions as Sylar smirks in response.

He laughs, unable to hide the smile from his face. "Claire's a sweet girl."

"If you did anything to hurt her-" Peter begins and Sylar snorts.

"I follow the law, unlike you." He states bitterly as he waves his hand to the door. "Get out."

Peter huffs and hesitantly leaves the room. Sylar watches him go, his hearing on guard as he waits for clarification that he's really gone.

"You have Claire's powers," Mohinder questions and Sylar spins on his heels to see him sitting on the bed, dreary eyes staring back at him.

"Yes." He smiles and is slightly taken aback by the pained expression on Mohinder's face and he instantly wants to correct it. "I gather you disapprove."

"Yes," Mohinder whispers, shaking his head. "No. Yes, it's just that-" His voice trails off as he glances away from him.

"It's what?" Sylar prompts and Mohinder looks up at him, a small spark of passion lighting up his eyes.

"When will it be enough?" He questions sharply and Sylar stills. "My god, you have more powers at your fingertips then you could ever need-"

"As long as I can absorb them, I'll take them." He snaps, instantly regretting his comment when there is a flicker of fear in his eyes.

Mohinder opens his mouth to responds but closes it quickly.

"Mohinder," Sylar whispers as Mohinder shakes his head and raises his hands to him in a simple dismissal.

"I almost thought that you were different, that you could change." He states as he stands up and crosses to his desk. "You should leave," Mohinder states roughly, tugging at Sylar's heart even more.

"Mohinder," he gasps, trying to find the words that he needs to convince him of his true intentions.

"No," he grates. "I fooled myself into believing that you- that we could-" Mohinder sighs heavily. "You used me, even more so than-"

"No." Sylar protests as he stops himself from reaching out and touching him as he desires.

"No?" He quips as he pushes a stack of files off his desk, momentarily stunning Sylar with his outburst. "Get out."

"No." Sylar growls as he finally crosses the line and places his hands on Mohinder's shoulder's stilling his actions. "I won't leave you," he whispers, brushing his lips over Mohinder's ear, breathing in his scent.

"Please." Mohinder whispers, the anger quickly leaving his body as Sylar continues to hold him.

"No." Sylar states once more as he draws Mohinder further into his arms, willing for him to just let go.

A moment passes before Mohinder lets out a pained sob and he slumps against Sylar's chest, using him to hold himself up. "I can't do this anymore," he whispers as he turns in Sylar's arms until they are facing each other. Mohinder immediately drops his gaze and tucks his head into Sylar's chest. "Don't leave me."

Sylar exhales sharply and holds onto the man in his arms. "What happened? Why was Peter-" he begins to question as Mohinder suddenly pulls away and pushes Sylar from him.

"You have no idea what it means to be here," He states angrily. "You're free to go as you wish. My god, I've not seen the sun in almost a year-"

"You will." Sylar vows as he reaches out once more to him, running his fingers down Mohinder's back.

"Don't." Mohinder whispers. "Don't promise me something you can't deliver. Nathan will never let me go-"

"You will be free," he hisses. "I have a plan."

Mohinder laughs, shaking his head. "You have a plan?"

"Yes," Sylar smirks. "I just need Molly's power."

Mohinder bristles at her name and pulls away from Sylar's light touch. "No."

"Mohinder."

"No." He repeats even more firmly. "That's out of the question. You don't need her powers."

"That's where you're wrong," he snaps. "Out of all the powers in the world, her power is the one I need the most. It's invaluable to your release."

"Then I'll rot in here for the rest of my life." Mohinder stammers. "I will not let you-"

"Mohinder," Sylar stresses. "I need this, it's the only way."

"No."

Sylar growls, glancing at the computer with the scans he needs and then at Mohinder's wide eyes. "I'm sorry," he states, throwing Mohinder against the opposite wall and holds him against his will as he turns to the computer.

He ignores the whimpered pleas from behind him as he searches the files for Molly's scan, knowing that it's there somewhere. He growls when he comes up empty and he turns to Mohinder. "Where is it?"

Mohinder only glares in response as he continues to fight against the invisible restraints. "Fuck you."

Sylar groans and turns his attention back to the computer. He scans the files once more and smiles as he reads the one that may help him in his search. Technopathy. He flips to the 3D imagining and absorbs the power with ease. Electricity seems to pour from his hands as he reaches out and touches the computer screen, scanning the computer from the inside out, slipping into binary codes until he finds the deleted brain scans that he needs.

He looks over at Mohinder as he accesses Molly's scan. "Nothing is ever truly deleted," he states as Mohinder's eyes widen and he curses at him in Tamil. He turns his attention back to the computer and absorbs her power, his eyes fluttering close as he assimilates her power as one of his own.

Sylar steps away from the computer and immediately walks to the door, knowing that he is no longer welcomed there. "I'm sorry," He whispers, glancing back at Mohinder as he lets him go from his hold.

The door slides open as a paperweight explodes by his head and he leaves without another word. Sylar feels the threat of tears as he walks away, knowing that Mohinder will never forgive him for this- even if it meant his freedom. But he would rather take the brunt of his anger, knowing he'd be free soon, than anything else at the moment. "It's for the best."

~

Sylar growls as he tosses the map of D.C. to the floor, mastering Molly's power has been more challenging then he'd care to admit. He rubs his eyes as he sits down on his bed and he can't help but wonder how a child could have mastered this gift so readily. He wishes that Mohinder was by his side to help him through this, but he knows that after their last encounter that Mohinder would deny him his help. He just hopes that this betrayal will be worth the pain that it's causing both of them.

So far he hasn't been able to locate anyone, not even fucking Peter Petrelli who he knows is somewhere in the vicinity. He hisses in annoyance and he tries to focus his thoughts on finding Peter once more.

Sylar gasps when an image flickers in his mind and he freezes the image. "Figures," he sneers as he pinpoints Peter's whereabouts. He's in the oval office and he isn't alone- Nathan hovers beside him, his fingers disappearing under Peter's shirt.

He blinks the images away and he picks up his cell phone. The phone rings once and Nathan picks up, annoyance dripping from his tone. Sylar smirks as he can hear their racing heartbeats and their arousal through the line.

"In the office?" Sylar purrs, grinning as Nathan confirms their whereabouts and hangs up the phone.

His vision had been correct and he is just one more step closer to mastering his new power. Sylar takes a deep breath and focuses his attention on the man he needs to find, Noah Bennet. His eyes flutter close and he breathes in deeply as a small picture forms in his mind and he sees him clear as day.

He locks the image in his mind and he's able to pinpoint Bennet's exact location and he's mildly surprised that he is closer then he thought. He's only a hundred miles away in Charlottesville, Virginia.

Sylar glances at his watch and mentally prepares himself for the trial ahead. Mohinder's freedom depends on him to follow through and he won't accept failing at this one thing. He takes a deep breath and reaches for the envelope he's prepared for this very event.

He waits impatiently for the sky to darken even more, needing the cover of nightfall to mask his movements. He hesitates ever so slightly, never testing his ability to fly outside of the lab. He hovers off the ground before he shoots up into the air. Sylar can't help but grin at the sensation of the cool air whipping over his skin, it's unbelievable.

He closes his eyes for a second, recalling Bennet's location and he takes flight. Sylar lands in the backyard of the house and he cloaks himself with invisibility. He walks forward, seeking out the man that can help him.

He finds him still sitting behind a grand oak desk. He looks older then he remembers, but time hasn't been kind.

"Bennet," Sylar drawls as he rematerializes and Bennet jumps out of his seat.

He glances wildly around the room and stiffens as he focuses his gaze on him. He schools his features and glares at him. "Sylar." He nods as he rubs the bottom of his chin. "How did you find me?"

Sylar smirks. "I have my ways."

"Were you followed?" He questions sharply, dropping his gaze to the picture of his family on his desk.

"No."

Bennet nods, taking his word for it as he takes his seat. "Why are you here?"

"I need your help," Sylar states as he advances to his desk, looming over it as he studies Bennet closely.

"My help?" He snorts. "What can I do for you, that you can't do for yourself?"

"You have resources that I do not," he begins as he slowly relaxes and sits across from him. "You've provided a safe haven for those that wish to be free."

"I have," he states with a dismissive wave of his hand. "But, I still don't see why-"

"Dr. Mohinder Suresh," Sylar begins as Bennet's eyes widen. "Has been held captive in a private lab by Nathan-"

"Jesus," he exhales slowly. "I had no idea," He adds quickly as he shakes his head. "We searched for him initially, but there was no trace of him. I had assumed he had made it to safety and he was hiding out."

Sylar nods. "You can see why I'm here."

"Yes."

Sylar pulls out an envelope from his jacket and places it on the desk. "Inside is a map, a pass key, and all the information I could gather regarding the security." He explains as he taps the manila envelope. "I'm sure you've heard about it, it's been publicized for months, but there is a ball at the White House in two days. There will be delivery people and extra servants milling about all day-"

"And would provide a proper diversion," Bennet muses as he nods his head in consideration.

"I'll try my best to keep everyone away from the lab that day," he sighs as he briefly drops his head into his hands, rubbing his brow. "Just make sure he's safe." He adds, his voice wavering slightly.

"I will."

Sylar forces a smile as he stands up. "I can't have any knowledge of-" he begins, shaking his head. "I need to be able to deny any knowledge of where-"

"I understand." Bennet nods as he takes the envelope and places it in his side pocket. "Is there anything else?"

Sylar smiles as he takes a cell phone out of his pocket and tosses it to him. "Hit redial," He grins as he takes a step back. "There's only twenty minutes available, use them well."

Bennet glances down at the phone as Sylar leave him to the phone call. He's a block away when he hears Bennet make the call that he knows will connect him with his daughter.

~

"Thank you!" Claire squeals as she launches at Sylar and hugs him tight.

Sylar huffs and pats her head. "Yeah."

Claire pulls away and smiles at him. "You didn't have to- but, thank you so much."

Sylar nods, forcing a smile he doesn't feel. "Don't mention it."

"He's lucky to have you watching out for him," she whispers softly and he can't help but laugh at that sentiment.

"I'm not sure he feels the same way," he murmurs, running his hands idly down his chest and into his pockets.

She just offers another bright smile. "You're a good man Gabriel Gray."

He opens his mouth to reply when there is a piercing scream. Sylar turns quickly on his heels, his hand quick to strike, but he pauses as he sees a girl before him. He couldn't help but be drawn to her, intrigued by her very presence.

"Molly!" Claire calls out and he stiffens, unable to do anything more than stare at her panicked face. "It's okay," she tries to reassure her. "There's nothing to be afraid of."

Molly hiccups and stares wide eyed at him. "But, he's the boogieman."

"Molly," Claire begins softly. "This is Gabriel Gray he's the Vice President."

"I know," she hesitates as she continues to stare at him. "But, he's-"

"A good friend of mine," She offers and if possible Molly's eyes widen even more. "Where's Matt?" Claire questions attempting to divert her focus off Sylar.

Molly shrugs in reply, her gaze glued to Sylar's. "Schools out today," She explains. "He said not to wander too far- to experience the white house for myself."

"Molly." Sylar states softly, not wanting to spook her even more. "It's nice to meet you-" he adds with a small smile, wanting to know more about the one that holds a part of Mohinder's heart. "Mohinder has told me so much about you." He lies, prompting her to respond in the manner he had been hoping for. He marvels at the way she gasps at Mohinder's name, her eyes glazing over in hope, her previous fright dissipating.

"Mohinder?" She whispers. "Is he here?!"

Claire and Sylar share a quick glance and Claire shrugs in response to Sylar's inquisitive gaze. "Yes," Sylar smiles. "Would you like to see him?"

"Yes!" She cries out, her eyes sparkling with happiness at the mere thought of seeing him.

"Parkman's going to kill you," Claire warns in a harsh whisper.

Sylar shrugs. "I can take him," he snorts, offering his hand to Molly. "This will be our little secret."

Molly nods her head as she reluctantly takes his hand. "I can keep a secret."

"Good," he smiles as he squeezes her hand and he escorts her down the long hallways toward Mohinder's lab.

~

Mohinder freezes as he hears the lab door slide open and he tenses at the expected voices that don't come. He glances over and sees Sylar looming in the doorway and he can't help but feel a mixture of emotions well in his heart. He longs for his companionship, but his betrayal from the day before still thrums in his body.

"Mohinder!" A voice calls out and he's momentarily stunned by the instant recognition. He glances away from Sylar's face to see Molly run towards him. "Mohinder!" She cries out once more as they collide in a hug.

"Molly," he inhales as he wraps his arms around the one that has become his daughter over such a small amount of time. "I've missed you so much," he murmurs into her ear and she sniffs, holding onto him even tighter.

"Missed you too," she whimpers. "They told me I could never see you again," she states as she glances up into his face. "Did I do something wrong?"

"No." Mohinder insists, kissing her cheek. "You haven't done anything wrong."

"Then why did you go away?" Molly questions as he studies her and he glances up at Sylar.

"I had work," he states, not wanting to go into any further details.

"The President needed his help," Sylar supplies and Molly looks between them.

"Are you done yet?" She huffs. "Can you come home?"

"Not yet," Mohinder whispers as he runs his hand down her arms. "You're becoming such a beautiful young lady," he remarks, redirecting her as she blushes.

She smiles brightly, "thank you."

Mohinder grins as he glances over at Sylar. "Isn't she beautiful?" He asks, his voice billowing with pride.

"She is," Sylar nods, unable to hide his smile at Mohinder's obvious happiness.

"Have you been a good girl?" Mohinder questions softly and she nods in reply.

"Parkman is on his way," Sylar announces, breaking their tender moment and they both tense at the news. "You have a minute or two, at most."

"Is he going to be mad at me?" She questions after a slight pause and Mohinder laughs, shaking his head.

"No." He states as he pulls her into another embrace. "Remember I'll always love you."

"Love you too," she exhales as she buries her head into his chest. "This is about the new law, isn't it?"

Mohinder bristles, running his hand through his hair. "Molly-"

"I'm a big girl now," she states as she pulls away. "Don't I deserve the truth?" She whispers tersely. "Matt still treats me like a little girl, please don't."

He sighs deeply, his shoulders slumping. "Yes, it is."

"I don't care about the law, it doesn't change how I feel- I don't love you any less because you don't have a power- you saved my life and many others, doesn't that count?" She states firmly as she squeezes her arms around him. "Mohinder-" she begins as they hear muffled voices behind them and they turn to see Sylar and Matt arguing.

"Times up," Mohinder groans as he kisses Molly's head and pulls away. "I want you to be a good girl for Matt-"

Molly nods, blinking back her tears. "I don't want to go."

Mohinder's heart aches, wanting more than anything to make his daughter happy. "It's not my choice," he whispers. "Smile for me, Molly."

She smiles as Matt rushes in and places a hand on her shoulder. "It's time to go home."

Molly nods, glancing up at Mohinder. "Bye."

"Good bye," Mohinder replies as Matt glares at him before he ushers Molly away. He watches as they go, wishing he could stop them.

Mohinder sighs, running his hand through his hair as he glances over at Sylar still standing by the door. "Thank you."

"Don't." He grunts. "I didn't think Parkman would have tracked us down so soon."

Mohinder shakes his head, a small smile on his lips. "The few minutes were worth it- I haven't seen her in years. I wasn't even able to say good bye to her, before."

"I wish things could have been different," Sylar replies and Mohinder laughs in response.

"I have my doubts," he muses as he takes a seat on his bed. "Isn't this what you've always wanted? You're being groomed to be President- you have everything."

Sylar pauses, "not everything." He admits and Mohinder bristles lightly.

"Oh, yes." Mohinder nods. "You haven't acquired all their powers-"

"It's not about the powers," he groans and Mohinder stares at him. "It's-"

"Are you telling me, you're not tempted to take the powers from those scans?" He questions harshly and Sylar falters.

"I won't deny that it's not tempting," he sighs. "But there is more to life then powers!"

"Yes, there is." Mohinder agrees as he stands up to meet Sylar half way. "But that hasn't been a consideration to you in the past," he argues. "Why now?"

"It doesn't mean anything if I have no one to share it with," he admits, his gaze locking with Mohinder's.

"Such a clichéd response," Mohinder replies, glancing away. "It's very unlike you."

"The world has changed," Sylar states as he takes a step closer to Mohinder, allowing his body to press up against his.

"I haven't noticed," Mohinder barks bitterly as he unconsciously shifts closer to him. "You're going soft on me." He whispers as he turns his gaze to him.

"Is that a bad thing?" He smiles as he raises his hand and trails it down Mohinder's back, leaning in and brushing his lips against the corner of his ear.

Mohinder inhales sharply at the contact and he looks down at his own hands. "I haven't decided yet," he muses, glancing back up at him, offering him a small smile.

"You think too much," Sylar scoffs, tilting his head so slightly that his cheek rubs against Mohinder's.

Mohinder sucks in a quick breath at the sensation and he swallows hard. His eyes flutter close and everything stills around them, he can't deny that the man beside him means more then he thought possible. "It's in my nature," Mohinder whispers after a slight pause and he shifts closer, his lips ghosting over Sylar's.

"Mohinder," he moans as he closes the small distance between them and they share their first kiss. It's soft, tentative, and with a flicker of Sylar's tongue it deepens to something more.

"So, this is what you do in your spare time." Nathan's voice booms and they jump apart.

Sylar steps in front of Mohinder, in a protective manner as he glares at Nathan. "What?" He growls, his temper rising sharply as he continues to stare at him.

"Nathan," Mohinder clips as he presses his hand against Sylar's back, in a small semblance of support.

"Parkman is in my office, currently calling for your head." He states as he glances between them. "I felt the need to check out the situation."

"In other words," Sylar scoffs. "He used his persuasion to make you check up on me," he pauses as he glances at his watch. "Because we both know that you're suppose to be in a meeting with cabinet at this exact moment."

Nathan pauses, bristling at his words and cursing under his breath. "I want you in my office to rectify your careless actions." He commands and Sylar reluctantly nods in acquiesce. "Good." He nods as he flashes them one of his trademark smiles. "Mohinder," He states as he turns to leave, waiting for Sylar to lead the way.

Sylar leans back into Mohinder's touch and sighs. "Tomorrow," he promises as he pulls away and walks out of the lab, Nathan following quickly.

Mohinder wavers as he watches Sylar walking away. He wants to call out to Sylar to wait, but then he's not sure what to say. He touches his lips and smiles, his heart racing at the thought of seeing Sylar again tomorrow.

~

Mohinder awakens with a start, his heart skipping a beat as he glances around the darkened room. He sits up, his senses on high as the feeling of being watched increases with every passing second and he can't help but think that someone is in the lab with him. He flips on the light, illuminating the immediate area and he feels no relief when he sees that there is no one in the lab.

"Is someone there?" He questions as he stands, glancing around the room once more, but he's met with silence. Mohinder exhales sharply as his hands curl up into fists at his side. He knows without a doubt that Peter is near, that he's not alone and he's being watched, again. "I don't understand why you feel the need to spy on me. I'm not a threat-"

"But your boyfriend is!" Peter states with vehemence as he suddenly appears before him and Mohinder simply gapes at him, his face flushing at the sentiment. "He's planning something."

"I don't know what you are referring to," he states, wrapping his arms over his chest and Peter glares at him.

Peter steps closer and stares at him. "Tell me," he orders and Mohinder opens his mouth to refuse but finds he can't.

"Tell you what?" He manages to reply as he drops his arms to his sides. "I don't know anything."

"He's considered with you, he doesn't think of anything else but you-" Peter drawls and Mohinder can't help but smile. "What is he planning?"

"I don't know." He gasps, telling him nothing but the truth and he knows that Peter can sense that. "He's not told me anything- why don't you ask him?"

Peter snarls as he turns away and begins to pace. "Just because he's the most elite-"

"That's hardly true," Mohinder cuts in. "By default you are the most elite, for you have his powers and more. That is the nature of your power."

He stills and glares at Mohinder.

"Oh," Mohinder smirks. "I had forgotten that you lack the skills to actually use your-" his voice trails off as he finds he can't breathe.

"It's against the law for me to strike against Sylar-" he seethes. "But, I can hurt you without consequence."

Mohinder gasps, clutching at the invisible restraints against his throat. He drops to his knees as his lungs tighten and he struggles to breathe. 'What has become of you, Peter?' He forces with his mind, knowing that he can hear him. 'I remember when you wanted to change the world- to save the cheerleader.'

Peter's eyes widen in horror and he drops his hold on Mohinder, disappearing from the room as Mohinder collapses against the floor, darkness washing over him.

~

"Mohinder?" A frantic voice calls out to him and he blinks up to see Sylar's face above him and he sucks in a quick breath, his lungs aching. "Who did this to you?" He demands as he traces the bruises marring his neck.

Mohinder shakes his head and forces himself into a sitting position, leaning heavily into Sylar's form. "It's nothing," he states his voice barely above a whisper.

Sylar wraps his arms around him, holding him close as he breathes him in. "Soon you'll be free- you won't have to look over your shoulder, you won't have to be a slave to them anymore."

"What have you done?" Mohinder questions as he pulls away, his eyes widening as he studies him. "What are you planning?"

"Nothing," Sylar whispers as he nuzzles Mohinder's neck. "I don't know anything more then what I set up-"

"My freedom," he exhales in absolute awe as he runs his fingers through Sylar's hair and pulls his head up gently to gaze into his eyes. "My freedom isn't worth the trouble-"

"It's worth everything," Sylar smiles as he leans his forehead against Mohinder's. "It's already started," he adds. "Today is the day."

"Today?" He gasps, shaking his head. "No. Sylar-"

"Yes." He muses as he leans in, his lips brushing against Mohinder's.

"It's too soon," Mohinder mumbles as their breath mingles and he exhales sharply, his breath catching as his fingers curl into Sylar's suit jacket. "We-"

"We'll be together soon," Sylar finishes as he presses his lips against Mohinder's, nipping lightly at his full bottom lip. "Fate will bring us together again."

"Fate," Mohinder groans, opening his mouth to Sylar's questing tongue, deepening the kiss with a flick of his own.

They share a blissful moment before Sylar pulls away slightly, his eyes heavy with lust. "I have to go," he regretfully states as Mohinder shakes his head no and wraps his arms around his neck, kissing him once more.

"Not yet-" he moans against his lips as he shifts into Sylar's lap and inhales as his growing erection brushes against Sylar's. "Please."

Sylar groans, cursing under his breath. "Mohinder."

"I might not see you again," he whispers as he rests his forehead against Sylar's. "That is the plan, is it not?"

"I don't want to rush this," Sylar states softly as he rubs Mohinder's chest. "We deserve better, with our history-"

Mohinder snorts, "our history is rather volatile. Do we want to risk it?"

"Yes," he smiles, kissing him softly, reverently. "I have to go, I'm already late."

Mohinder sighs, nodding his head as they reluctantly pull apart. "I-" he pauses as he rubs at his neck. "Sylar-"

"I know," he whispers, stealing one more kiss as he heads for the door. "Oh, I brought you something, I hope you like it." He smirks as he pauses at the door.

Mohinder stares after him, rubbing his throbbing neck as he notices the garment bag on his bed. He opens the bag and gasps as he reveals a dark blue silk suit with a crisp white dress shirt. "My god, Sylar-" he gasps as he trails his fingers over the material. He glances down at his white tee and scrub pants he's worn every day since his capture and he can't help but smile. "It's gorgeous."

"Put it on," he smiles and Mohinder runs his fingers over the hem of his tee, keenly aware that Sylar is watching his every move.

"I thought you were late?" He muses as he slowly lifts up his tee and pulls it over his head.

Sylar swallows hard, his eyes glued to Mohinder's chest. "Yeah."

"What's the occasion?" Mohinder questions as he tugs at his scrub pants, lowering them slightly on his hips, giving Sylar an expansive view.

"There's a ball," he replies dryly, his voice catching as he suddenly moves from his spot by the door and crosses over to Mohinder. "Thought you'd blend in better if you were-" Sylar breathes as he skims his hand over Mohinder's bare chest. "You're so beautiful."

Mohinder flushes at the comment, his eyes fluttering close as he leans into his Sylar's touch. "Don't go."

"No," Sylar exhales as his deft fingers tuck into Mohinder's waistband and yank them further down his hips, uncovering his heavy erection. "Oh, Mohinder."

Mohinder trails his fingers over Sylar's suit jacket and pulls him into a heated kiss. "Touch me," he breathes into his mouth and Sylar groans as his fingers itch to obey.

Mohinder exhales sharply as Sylar's hand inches lower, grasping the base of Mohinder's erection. Sylar kisses him as he curls his fingers around him and he begins to pump him slowly.

He trembles, grabbing onto Sylar's arms as his hips move in tangent to his ministrations. "Sylar," he moans as his orgasm starts to build with each thrust of his hands. "It's been so long," he gasps, throwing his head back as he arches more into Sylar's fist.

Sylar quickens his pace and smirks as he sends tiny bolts of electricity through Mohinder's body. "Let go."

Mohinder cries out as his orgasm washes over him and he comes into Sylar's hand. "Sylar," He breathes as he clutches onto him, unable to do much more as he slumps into his embrace, trying to catch his breath.

He kisses him softly as he continues to milk his cock, loving the way Mohinder practically purrs in response. "So beautiful," Sylar murmurs as he slowly lowers him back onto the cot bed and he climbs into the bed with him, just taking a moment to rest beside him.

"Neat little trick," Mohinder chuckles as he pulls Sylar into another kiss and runs his hands down Sylar's chest, palming his erection through his pants.

Sylar moans, his eyes fluttering close. "I should go," he mumbles and Mohinder smirks as he adds more pressure and fumbles with his zipper.

"You said that already," he muses as he frees Sylar's erection and he lowers himself, running his tongue down the length. "Do you want me to stop?" He questions as he sucks the head of his cock into his mouth.

"Oh, fuck," Sylar gasp s, arching his back as he thrusts up into the tight heat of his mouth. "Mohinder."

He pauses, pulling away as he smirks up at Sylar. "I take that as a no?" He grins as Sylar just groans in response, running his fingers through Mohinder's hair.

"Don't stop," he urges as Mohinder smiles as he lowers his mouth once more and swallows him whole. "Oh," he gasps, trembling as his orgasm nears. Mohinder hums around his erection, sending blots of pleasure through his body. "Fuck." He hisses as he thrusts once more, coming in quick bursts.

Mohinder swallows the evidence away and tucks him back into his pants. He smiles as he leans up and slowly kisses Sylar. He wraps his arms around him as he settles beside him, enjoying the soft tender kisses.

Sylar's phone begins to vibrate between them and he groans at the interruption. "Told you, I was late," he grumbles as he answers the phone. "Yes?"

Mohinder only chuckles in response as he continues to kiss the expanse of Sylar's neck, pausing as he feels the anger vibrating off him. "Sylar?" He questions as he hangs up the phone.

"I have to go," he states firmly as he kisses Mohinder once more, placing his claim on him. "I will find you- we will be together."

Mohinder nods, wondering if this will be the last time he'll see him. "I'll be waiting for you."

~

The meeting lasts longer then Sylar expects, but it's partially his fault since he had been late in the first place. He smiles as he vividly recalls his last moments with Mohinder, loving that he would always have that moment to recall.

He makes his way through the halls, pausing as he feels an immediate drain on his powers and he turns to see the Haitian standing before him. "Sylar," he replies a vague smile on his lips.

"It's good to see you," Sylar states, perplexed as he feels the rush of his powers return. "I gather Nathan called to see you?"

"Naturally," he smiles. "He only wants the best for the nation."

"Of course," Sylar drawls. "Will you be joining the festivities?"

"Yes," he nods as Nathan approaches them.

"Ah," Nathan smiles. "I was hoping you'd be able to make it."

"I will leave you to your business," Sylar remarks as he turns to leave.

"Gabriel," the Haitian calls out and he pauses, wondering at the name change. "I believe you dropped this."

Sylar schools his emotions as he hands him the cell phone that he gave to Bennet earlier. "Thanks." He smiles as he pockets the phone, the message crystal clear.

The Haitian nods his head and then turns to Nathan as they walk away from him. He takes a deep breath as he pulls the phone out of his pocket and glances at the screen, noticing that there's two minutes remaining. He hits redial and sucks in a quick breath as the phone picks up.

"I hope you were smart enough not to call me around anyone that could overhear." He states harshly and Sylar curses under his breath as he glances around the immediate area, in his urgency he had forgotten to check.

"Is the plan in place?" He questions and is met with stony silence.

"Yes," Bennet responds after a short pause. "He'll be in the safe house by the end of the day."

Sylar breathes a sigh of relief. "Thank you."

"Don't thank me yet." He snips as he hangs up the phone and Sylar pockets the phone once more, making his way to the main ballroom.

~

Sylar watches the Haitian from across the room, sighing with irritation as he glances at his watch, wondering just when the plan would begin. He groans, realizing it's only been five minutes since the last time he checked his watch. The music swells, but he can't seem to focus on the beauty of the music or the festivities around him.

"You okay?" Claire questions and he blinks over at her, not realizing she had even entered the ballroom.

"Claire," he nods, turning his gaze back to the Haitian.

"Nice to see you too, Claire." She drawls. "You're positively radiant and your gown is absolutely gorgeous. Why thank you, Gabriel. I thought it matched my eyes perfectly."

Sylar grimaces at her annoyed tone and casts another glance at her. He smiles as he notices the shimmering floor length gown that does match her eyes perfectly. "You look nice."

Claire shakes her head, rolling her eyes as she hits him in the arm. "Gee, thanks. Nice of you to notice-"

"Claire," he sighs and turns his gaze back toward the Haitian.

"What's up with you?" She quips, following his gaze. "Oh, I haven't seen him in ages- he used to work closely with my dad."

"Did he?" He questions, knowing that he still does.

"Yeah," she acknowledges, nodding her head. "Now, his power you'd love-"

"He can neutralize someone's power," he shrugs, not finding it a very wanted power. "It's not that spectacular, it's only of use if you need to run away from someone that does. I have no need to run."

Claire laughs, shaking her head with amusement. "But, that's only one of his powers." She stage whispers. "He can erase your memories."

Sylar's eyes widen. "Now that is tempting."

"It's horrid really," she sighs. "He erased my mom's memories a few times. It really screwed with her head."

Sylar nods, wondering why she is even talking to him.

"Dance with me." Claire smiles as she takes his hand and pulls him onto the crowded dance floor.

"I don't dance." He objects as they stop in the middle of the dance floor.

"You will," she whispers as she wraps her arms around him, leaning in closer. "While you've been staring at the Haitian, Peter's been staring at you. For a serial killer you suck at being incognito."

Sylar stiffens, glancing over his shoulder to see Peter watching him closely. He grumbles as he wraps his arms around Claire and attempts to dance.

"I gather, tonight is the night?" She whispers as she looks up at him.

"Yes," he nods as the music comes to a flourishing halt and they come to a stop. They clap their hands like the others around them and he forces a smile to his face.

The music starts to play once more and they dance. Sylar relaxes slightly as he closes his eyes and pretends that he's with Mohinder and the world is what they would have it to be. He finally lets the melody of the music soothe him and is startled when there is a soft buzzing ring in the distance.

~

Mohinder gasps as a dark man walks into the lab and holds up the key card. "It is time to go."

"Yes," Mohinder nods and smiles, quickly following him down the labyrinth of hallways.

"This way," he states as they go through a door and they are suddenly outside.

Mohinder falters, coming to an abrupt stop as his lungs fill with the fresh night's air. "Heaven," he sighs, smiling as he glances up at the stars.

"Doctor Suresh," a heavy accented voice calls to him and he turns his head to see an Asian man, he looks vaguely familiar but he doesn't recall his name. "My name is Hiro Nakamura, it is nice to finally meet you. We have looked for you."

"Glad to be found," Mohinder smiles as an alarm blares and Mohinder glances back at the building they just left.

"We must go." Hiro clips and suddenly the world bends on itself and they are transported across time and space.

~

He pulls away from Claire's embrace, glancing around the room and he realizes he's the only one that can hear it. Sylar focuses on the sound and it magnifies, it's an alarm and it's coming from the back of the lab. His heart skips a beat, realizing exactly what it means. Mohinder's freedom.

"Gabriel?" Claire questions softly. "What's wrong?"

"Nothing," he states, allowing a small smile to ghost over his lips. Sylar tenses when a hand grabs onto his arm and he's jerked away from Claire's presence.

"Don't make a scene," the guard sneers and Sylar's lead away from the crowd and into the interrogation room.

He sits calmly at the table, wondering desperately if they got away. The blaring alarms had caught him off guard, he hadn't even noticed that the Haitian had left the room.

Sylar stifles a laugh as Nathan strolls in the room, Parkman and Peter trailing behind him. His reinforcements. He quickly deducts that if all three are present then the plan has worked and Mohinder is free.

"What do I owe the pleasure?" Sylar smirks as he leans back in his chair.

"Doctor Suresh has disappeared from the lab," Nathan drawls, his voice full of irritation. "But, I have a feeling that you already know that."

"Did he?" Sylar gasps, feigning shock. "Where did he go?"

"That's why we're here now," Nathan snaps as he runs his hand through his hair. "Where is he?"

"How should I know?" He shrugs, a smile twisting at his lips.

Nathan nods to Parkman and leaves the room, the door slamming shut. Parkman steps up to the table and glares at him. "Where is he?" He questions and Sylar simply smiles in reply. "We know you planned this escape."

"Why does it matter?" He questions, glaring at the cop. "So, he's gone, big deal."

"He was working for the President," Peter states from the side of the room. "But, he's been neglecting his work since you've taken office."

Sylar can't help but snort, smiling as he recalls the time he spent in the lab. "And?"

"Where the hell is he?" Parkman snaps and glares at Sylar.

He shrugs. "Don't know."

"Okay. Then who helped you?"

"I don't know." Sylar sighs, shaking his head. "If I did, do you expect me to actually tell you anything?"

~

Mohinder stands out on the balcony, unable to believe that he's no longer in the lab. He closes his eyes and takes a deep breath, enjoying the cool air nipping at his skin. He hasn't felt this free in years. "How does it feel?" Bennet questions and he can't help but smile in response.

"Wonderful," he whispers in reply as he leans against the railing and glances over his shoulders at the men that saved him. "What happens now?"

"Hiro will take you to your new place of residence," Bennet states as he hands him a manila envelope.

Mohinder straightens up and takes the envelope. He opens it up to reveal official documents for his new identity. "Sendhil Gray?" He muses, unable to stop the smile spreading over his lips.

"Sylar thought it was fitting, he wanted you to have his name." He supplies and Mohinder flushes at the sentiment.

"It's nice," Mohinder smiles as he runs his fingers over his lips, recalling their last kiss.

Bennet nods. "I have secured you a teaching position at the local university, foreign studies. Unfortunately, you'll no longer have access to a lab or contacts to any of the genetic studies you've once known."

"That won't be a problem, I assure you." He states. "I rather not set foot in a lab for the rest of my life."

"You'll notice you have a national ID card that stipulates your power," he adds and Mohinder pulls out the card.

"Dream manipulation," Mohinder reads and nods his head. "A non-active power, that no one can prove I don't have."

"Exactly."

Mohinder takes a deep breath, suddenly feeling a little weary.

"Can you do this?" Bennet prompts and Mohinder nods.

"Yes."

~

"Who helped you?" Parkman questions once more and suddenly Sylar can feel a tug on his thoughts, a piercing pain as he feels as if he's being burned from the inside out.

"No one." He stammers trying to keep his composure, but failing.

"Who helped you?" He growls, staring intently at him as he feels an overwhelming need to answer him.

He bites his lip as he tries to push away the persuasion but finds he cannot. "A pathetic human," he states telling the truth without giving him the actual details.

"Who?" He demands and Sylar flinches at the intrusion in his mind.

Sylar sucks in a quick breath and he pulls up a second barrier, easily kicking Parkman out of his mind. "Mickey Mouse," he smiles and Parkman slams his fist against the table.

"This is getting us nowhere," Peter states and Sylar is grateful for the interruption, his mind slowly healing itself from the strain under Parkman's power.

"Then tell him to cooperate!" He snaps and Peter rolls his eyes in response.

"Sylar, we only want the best-"

"That's fucking bullshit Petrelli," Sylar growls. "If that was the truth we wouldn't be here in the first place."

"Fine," Parkman nods. "You are making this harder for yourself."

"I've always loved a challenge," he purrs, flashing a smile that only infuriates Parkman more.

"Where is he?" He questions and Sylar can feel his power pushing into his mind once more.

"I don't know."

"Where is he?" Parkman growls as the pain increases in Sylar's head and he closes his eyes against the intrusion.

"I don't know." He repeats as he steels his thoughts and only focuses on Mohinder's smile.

"Where the fuck is he?" He demands and Sylar feels as if his mind will crack under the pressure.

Sylar exhales as he tastes his blood on his lips and he reaches up to his bloody nose. "The safe house," he whispers, the answer being dragged from him against his will.

Parkman smiles, "now we are finally getting somewhere." He pauses as he stares at Sylar. "Where is the safe house?"

Sylar laughs bitterly, "I don't know."

"Just stop it," Peter cuts in and Sylar can't help but feel gratitude for his intervention. "He doesn't know- even I can see that."

Parkman bristles as he glares at Sylar once more. "Fine," he grunts as he turns sharply on his heels and leaves them in the interrogation room.

"You okay?" Peter questions softly as he hands him a cloth handkerchief and Sylar looks at him in confusion, wondering when he suddenly cared. He takes the offered handkerchief and wipes at his bloody nose.

"What do you think?" He grunts as he rubs his brows, trying to reduce the tension in his head.

Peter swallows hard, glancing down at the table and then reaches over and touches Sylar's brow.

Sylar blinks over at him in shock, his headache reducing to a dull ache at the touch of his fingers. "Don't think that this resolves your part in this." He grates as pushes his hand away before he can finish the job.

He nods as he stands and opens the door for him. "You're free to go."

"Thanks," Sylar mumbles as he quickly leaves the room and heads down to the lab.

He sucks in a quick breath as the lab door slides open and he steps in. He half expects to see Mohinder waiting for him, but he's not there. Sylar smiles sadly at the confirmation and takes a seat on the bed.

~

"Can I contact Sylar?" Mohinder questions as he trails his fingers down his suit jacket, smiling at the memories of this morning. "I just need to-"

"No," Bennet snaps cutting him off. "You can't contact him, ever."

"Ever?" He gasps, his heart aching at the thought. "But-"

"Is this going to be a problem?" Bennet grates as he studies him, glancing over at the Haitian beside him.

Mohinder worries his lip, not able to comprehend the thought of never speaking to the man who somehow became his whole life. "I don't know."

Bennet nods at the Haitian and Mohinder glances wearily between the two. "This is for your own good," he drawls. "You've left us no other choice."

Mohinder’s eyes widen as the Haitian places a hand on his brow. "No-" He gasps as he pushes his hand away and struggles against the larger man. "Please, don't take my memories from me- it's all I have left."

"It's for the best," the Haitian states firmly as Mohinder suddenly feels light headed and he falters, dropping his hold. "You can recall them back in time," he reassures him, but Mohinder continues to shake his head, not wanting this of all things to happen.

"No." He protests once more as darkness sweeps over him.

~

Sylar nurses his headache and waits for confirmation that Mohinder is indeed at the safe house. He traces his fingers over the cell phone in his hands, knowing that there is only a minute left. He sighs, leaning against the window frame as he glances out into the night's sky, knowing that Mohinder is finally free.

The phone rings, shaking him out of his reverie and he answers it quickly.

"He's safe," he states, jumping to the point and Sylar sighs with relief.

"Can I speak to him?" He questions, a little more eagerly then he intended.

"That won't be a good idea," Bennet replies. "We've had to adjust his memories for his own safety."

Sylar reels at the news, his heart aching at the thought. "You've taken me out of his memories?"

"You were a liability," he sneers. "Would you prefer if he alerted Homeland Security as he attempted to contact you? You know he won't be put back in the lab."

"Oh." Sylar sucks in a quick breath, unable to picture Mohinder in one of the slave camps.

"It's for the best." Bennet clips as he hangs up the phone and Sylar slumps against the wall and sinks to the ground, tears burning his eyes.

"It's for the best," he repeats, trying to convince himself that it is the only way, he has no other choice but to trust Bennet. "Oh, Mohinder," He gasps as he hits his head back against the wall, only increasing his pounding headache, but he almost welcomes the intrusion of pain.

He's not sure how much time has passed as he mourns the loss of his lover, but he feels utterly drained. Sylar stands and glances out the window, reaching out his hand to the cool glass. He closes his eyes against the pain in his heart and focuses on the one thing that remains true- Mohinder is free and at the moment it'll have to be enough. "It's for the best." He whispers with more conviction and turns his thoughts away from Mohinder and their tortured past, at least he still has his memories to help him survive the fight until they meet again.

The End