Good day, this is Yolea Irk's speaking. First of all, I apologize that it took me so long to update this chapter. Someone mentioned to me about using magus on Kensuke/Shirou while the boy actually considers himself a spellcaster. To be honest, while I do agree Kensuke/Shirou fits more with the spellcaster term, magus sounds cooler and exotic in my opinion. It pointed to Kensuke/Shirou's true origin that differentiated him from any human in KHR world. So while Shirou claimed himself as a spellcaster, he's the odd one among the others, including Mammon as well. As for the term of maryoku or magical energy, yeah, I used it to differentiate it from mana, prana, and od from Nasu-verse. Shirou was reborn in another world where Flames rule instead of magic and the moonlit world doesn't exist even when there's a possibility of magic and magicians still walking around.

I have a bit of knowledge regarding the Fate series, even less with KHR. With this, I wish you to review or favorite/follow this story. By the way, if you're wondering, Emiya Shirou in this fic is the Emiya Shirou from UBW route of Good End. I hope I didn't make you all confused. Btw, I decided to make this chapter shorter. I was too tired to make this chapter consisted of 5 titles. So yeah. T_T;;; Please forgive me. BTW, I've gotten a beta reader and half this chapter already beta-ed by him. Until he done beta-ed the rest, I hope this chapter will do before I can change it wuth the better one. Thank you so so much for davycrockett100, I greatly appreciated your help.

Disclaimer: I own nothing here. Fate/Stay Night belongs to Nasu while Katekyō Hitman Reborn belongs to Akira Amano. I'm only own a few OC's.

Summary : Mochida Kensuke was 10 years old when he gained Emiya Shirou's memory. He didn't expect he would be reincarnate in a foreign world. He is glad that he has a normal life and a friend in a form of Sawada Tsunayoshi, But with the Mafia and Dying Will Flames, Kensuke suspects that Zelretch has made fun of him. –"Hey, it wasn't me this time." Zelretch complained.- In which Emiya Shirou is reborn as Mochida Kensuke.

Warning: AU, Possibility of OOC, slight cursing and bad grammar.


AVALON/FAR AWAY IN THE EVERDISTANT UTOPIA


TALE 16: FIRST RIPPLE

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Kensuke found himself staring gazes with a blonde, burly man across him.

And the man is gazing back with a calculating gleam hidden behind that harmless gaze.

Things went...interesting and bothersome. In many ways.

The reincarnated magus went to the Sawada house, checking if anyone from Varia is after the children and Nana. So far, there were no visible threats. Depending on circumstances, Conceptual Weapons might be required. Speaking about Conceptual Weapons, every weapon he traced was more durable and lasted longer and didn't cost him as much energy as his original world. He suspected it may have something to do with these Flame users. Flame users alone can be categorized as magical in more than one way. Gaea's weaker presence may contribute a factor.

Kensuke just stepped through the door when his nostril caught a dusty and a bit too dry and hot scent, reminded him of Africa's savanna. Kensuke noticed a pair of large sized worker boots on the floor along with few other shoes. Curious, the kendo captain walked to the kitchen where Nana was laughing and talking with an unknown man. Once Nana spotted him, she introduced the man as Sawada Iemitsu, Nana's husband and Tsunayoshi's father.

A seemingly harmless grin soon broke across Iemitsu's face, he nonchalantly started handshaking a flabbergasted Kensuke. He asked if Kensuke wouldn't mind discussing some sensitive matters in the living room. A good opportunity that Kensuke will take for he too has a few things he must confront Iemitsu with. No doubt this man is involved in the mafia. Iemitsu's arrival was too big a 'coincidence' when an unknown group attempted to assault Tsuna and his Guardians today.

So here he is now, sitting across from the burly man.

They can talk without anyone disturbing them, which includes Iemitsu's real job as CEDEF's Head in mafia world…

It partially explained why the blond haired man doesn't bother coming home.

Even so, 9 years without any communication, aside from a single postcard of penguins? By all rights, Iemitsu should take a week worth holiday and spent the time solely with his wife and son. The burly man's long absence gave a huge impact with his wife and son. Tsuna even thinks of him as dead, not knowing anything about Iemitsu. Don't get him wrong, the magus does understand how Vongola's enemies or rivals would target Nana and Tsuna only because they were Iemitsu's family but if coming home and calling will risk too much, sending letters shouldn't be as risky. Kensuke has considered asking Tsuna if he could beat Iemitsu with a reinforced Torashinai. For now, he will refrain from giving Iemitsu his own medicine.

Marked the sentence 'for now'.


"So Reborn offered you a position as a member in Tsuna's famiglia and you accept it so you can keep him safe?"

"Reborn is very much aware I cannot leave Tsuna alone."

"Should've expected it. He can be a sadist if he wants."

Obviously.

"I'm sure you've already aware that my arrival in Japan has connection with Tsuna. Do you know why?" Iemitsu pressed.

Thus when the kendo captain instantly shook his head, Iemitsu gave him a brief explanation concerned the Vongola Rings and its sets. From when he arrived in Namimori with Dino to catch the news of Varia's main members assaulted his son and his Guardians. Until when Dino went to Tsuna's place and Iemitsu went for Varia and briefly halted them none other than informed them of the Rings Battle. It didn't ease Kensuke at the slightest as he processed all the information he got.

"You want to say if there are two successors or more, they fight for the Vongola Rings to determine who the worthy one is?"

"There's more. Another condition for inheritance is the Blood of Vongola. Meaning the successor is a direct descendant from Primo and his relatives. Nono is descendant from Secondo, who was Primo's cousin. Tsuna is the direct descendant from Primo himself." Iemitsu explained with a lofty tone.

So this was not an ordinary inheritance, this was an inheritance of blood.

With Iemitsu already holding a position in CEDEF, it's not possible for him took the mantle.

"What about Xanxus? What makes him then?"

"A distant relative from Nono's side but the blood is very thin. Added with his hasty temper and ruthless nature, he's out of the question. Nono wishes to return Vongola in its truest form thus he needs new blood. While Xanxus is undeniably strong, his bloodlust and violence made him unfit for Decimo."

"And Tsuna is the only suitable candidate." The kendo captain took the conclusion. Despite the fact, Xanxus strongly desired for the position. "In which conduct Rings Battle is a must, a necessity. When?"

"10 days. It can be sooner."

"…Only 10 days?"

"At least we can prepare in 10 days."

Such a short time though.

Several familiar scents suddenly invaded Kensuke's smelling sense. There were six of them in total. The first scent was the scent of fresh and warm air. Followed with sun mixes coffee and gunpowder, a more cheerful and lighter scent of sun with sunflower, and a scent of burning ozone with slight ripped grape. The last two scents were the scent of rain with balancing addition of faint salt and humid, raging air added tobacco. A relieved smile escaped through the kendo captain's lips. The door opened almost as the same time as Tsuna's tired greeting followed some shuffling sounds and bickers and a shout of 'extreme' in the hallway. A little while later, a familiar fluffy haired brunet and his companions arrived in the living room. Being on the lead with Reborn perching on his head, it doesn't take long before Tsuna's exhausted gaze fell on Iemitsu and Kensuke. Half-lidded eyes suddenly snapped wide open at the unexpected sight of his supposed-to-be-dead-father.

"D-Dad!?" A disbelieving shout slipped from Tsuna's mouth.

'Shock' is not a proper word describing the brunet's emotion.

Iemitsu was instantly glowing upon caching sight of his adorable son's form.

"Tuna-Fish! Look at you. You've grown up so much!"

"Wha―, how!?" Tsuna was beyond clueless, continuously opening and closing his mouth.

His mind ran a mile while he processes this.

It's a total mind blow to the poor short brunet.

What the-supposed-to-be-dead-father was doing in this house?! No, wait!

Scratch that!

What his father has been doing with Kensuke, anyway!?

("Is he Tsuna's father?" In the background, Yamamoto half whispered at Gokudera. They were kind of similar after all.)

(Gokudera sends him a halfhearted glare. Reminding himself not everyone will recognize Sawada Iemitsu. "Yeah. He is.")

(Ryōhei face lit up. So he was the father of his little brother! Wouldn't it be considered rude if they don't greet him? "Extremely good evening, Sir!")

("He's huge!" Lambo was fascinated in childish curiosity. Will he be as huge as the man when he grows up? That will be cool!)

(Meanwhile above Tsuna's head, Reborn's internal mood soured the moment his eyes trained on the burly blonde. Enough said.)

Iemitsu rose from his seat, closing his distance with his only son.

"Come here! Let your daddy see y―"

WHACK!

BAAAM!

A loud thud later, the blond haired man was on the floor. A large lump already formed on top of his head. Behind him, Kensuke eyed the unconscious man with flat, unimpressed stare. In all its glory, Torashinai freed from its wraps, leaking even more impressive blood-lust then the last time it was used. On second thought. Perhaps Tsuna's permission isn't necessary.

"HIIIEEEE! Kensuke, what are doing?!"

Tsuna shrieked fearfully both at the sight of his father sprawled on the floor and the cursed shinai.

And it wasn't only Tsuna.

Gokudera gaped, his wide olive green eyes darted between Kensuke and the ominous shinai. Ryōhei gave a comment about 'extreme blow'. Lambo already burst into tears at the brutal scene. Yamamoto laughed amiably as his narrowed gaze now trailing on Torashinai with no small amount of interest. Reborn is Reborn. Seemingly void from any visible response or there's the slightest twitch from the pint sized hitman. Should they examine carefully however and for those who know him, the dark amusement gleam in his black beady eyes and the ever slight upward curve on his lips told a different story.

"Kensuke-kun, what was that voice?" Nana inquired from the kitchen.

"Iemitsu-san has tripped on his own feet. I think he'll be fine." Kensuke replied without any guilt.

Tsuna cast him a very aghast gaze, almost thinking he misheard it.

Much to the short brunet's own shock, he wasn't.

What happened between the older teen and his father actually?!

"Ara, he should've been more careful! Tsuna, can you help your father and put him on the couch while I prepare dinner, please sweetheart?"

"Uh…" Tsuna shifted hesitantly as he stole a glance toward Kensuke, Torashinai already re-wrapped. He hastily approached his friend. "Why did you hit him?" The brunet demanded in a low voice once he close.

Kensuke shot him a dark look. "He's deserved it."

Tsuna now even more baffled. "For what?"

"For leaving you and Mamma so long."

Ah.

"And for the postcard he only sent once in 9 years."

"Uh…" Completely loss at words, Tsuna went awkward. "That's…"

'That's a bit too much.'

"That's so nice of you?" Tsuna grimaced. Why was his mouth betraying what was in his mind!?

The older teen nodded, saying no more. Tsuna face-palmed. There was no way he could take back his words. It didn't help that the kendo captain was not in the mood to apologize to Iemitsu in the near future. He finally gave up on Kensuke and intended lift the blond haired man from the floor first with the aid for Gokudera. Surely the olive green eyed teen wouldn't mind.

"Gokudera, can you give me a hand?"


Later Yamamoto offered his help for he apparently sensed Tsuna's hesitation, replacing Tsuna on getting the blonde man onto the couch.

Inwardly, Tsuna blessed the Rain Guardian. He wasn't ready for a confrontation or talk with his father who was practically a stranger in his life. He needed time. Lots of it. He needed it in order to adjust to the burly blonde's presence.

On second thought, maybe Kensuke deserves gratitude instead.


Not so surprisingly, Hibari came despite being uninvited after nightfall, black miasma oozed around the skylark as expected.

No occupants within the room wished to be near a cranky skylark.

Ryōhei even stay away from Hibari for once, sensing the prefect's bad mood.

One easily guessed he couldn't find the culprit for Namimori mall building's destruction.

Even though he was feeling guilty from the heavy property damage he had done, Kensuke was glad he immediately took off from the skyscraper where he fired Caladbolg II. Otherwise, he might not escape Hibari's wrath in time.

After recovered from the mild concussion and gave Kensuke a look –in which he ignored it-, Iemitsu told them all the important things they must be aware of regarding the Varia and the Rings Battles. In the end of the conversation, the man gave the ring set to Tsuna and left him deciding his own fate. It was not an easy decision. Tsuna still has some hesitation about coming forth as the Decimo candidate and facing Xanxus. Personally, he didn't think he's ready for this. The current situation forced Tsuna took a crucial decision not only for himself but for his famiglia. Renewed determination and blazing resolve, he took the Sky Ring. Tsuna asked his friends if they wish to become his Guardians and fight together with him.

Most of them have agreed and take their respective role as Tsuna's Guardians, ready to defend him. Mist was the only element left but for now, there main priority was getting stronger, which meant they must up their training. Tsuna followed Reborn to secluded area for some certainly brutal training. Ryōhei went training with Colonello, the Rain Arcobaleno from Mafia Land. Yamamoto went with his father for further training on Shigure Soen Ryu. Gokudera has already gone with Shamal. Hibari didn't bother with this whole training, he was the strongest Guardian. He only bothered for strong opponents he could find in Varia. As for Lambo…

15 years old Lambo sighed ruefully as his long fingers combing through his wavy hair.

"Yare yare. I never thought this day will come again." He sighed. "Hello Kensuke-nī."

Kensuke must hold back his confusion first. There were few things the magus must confirm, including how strong the 15 year old Lambo is in fighting. The plan was to let Lambo switch himself twice first with 15 and then 25 years old Lambo through the bazooka. In total Lambo only has 10 minutes at most, 5 minutes at least. Being doubtful at the Lightning Guardian was the last thing he ever wish to do but with the opponent Lambo will face, can someone blame him? The kendo captain had to ask the Bovino boy nicely or Lambo wouldn't listen to him despite him being a favorite aside from Nana, Tsuna, and few others. Asking Lambo was a tough task but equally worth it. Currently both of them were in the middle of a clearing outside Namimori's outskirts. A perfect place for training in case Teenage Lambo ever needed one.

"There's something I want to ask." The spellcaster said carefully.

Solemn realization dawned onto the Lightning Guardian's bright green orbs.

"Ah. Is this about the Rings Battle?" It was not a question, it was a statement.

Kensuke stupefied. "How did you know?"

A faint grin soon broke on Teenage Lambo's face.

"I was wondering when you will ask. I can fight well enough, you did train me. In the future, I mean."

In no time, deep frown marred across Kensuke's face. Lambo snickered at the other boy's expression.

A revelation the magus hadn't expected, that was for certain.

"…I did?" He repeated. Doubt vibe gave in every word.

"You did. I'd rather face Kyōya-nī' than facing you as my mentor. You don't believe me?" Lambo confirmed, there was no lie within his voice.

Could they blame him if he admitted that he was never a good teaching material?

Bet Rin would have a fit of laughter once she heard this, a maniacal one.

Kensuke shuddered at the thought.

Oh yes, she would have so much fun from this. She certainly would black mail him.

Lambo didn't miss the shudder. He coughed, covering his laugh. "I'm serious. You have trained me at a certain point. Heck, you drag Take-nī with you too! You shouldn't worry about me."

Yamamoto even involved? What his future self has been thinking?

"And the reason why I shouldn't be is…?"

"I have the best mentor as one of Tsuna-nī's Guardians, the first Crimson Guardian in the position ever since the Primo's era and it's also because Tsuna-nī trusted you."

He thought the Sky only has 6 Guardians and Tsuna's set completed already. So what's with him being Tsuna's Guardian? It doesn't make any sense.

Crimson Guardian?

Why that title does disturbingly reminded him of a red Counter Guardian?

Why he felt like his luck has gotten worse after he reincarnated?

Lambo must've sensed his turmoil because his gaze deepened in understanding.

"It's just for a couple years but you did make sure I'm not completely helpless. You did give me a weapon so I'm not depending on my horns."

Kensuke suddenly felt more than just a little uneasiness.

"What weapon?"

It was brief but Lambo's smile held bitterness.

Unnerved the ink colored eyed magus.

With equally unnerving calm, Lambo revealed the answer.

―!

The reincarnated magus very shocked.

"…How―?"

For the first time in this day, Teenage Lambo's smile changed into a bit genuinely smile.

"I'm afraid I can't tell you more than this. You will have see it soon." Lambo revealed no more. "My time is almost up, see you again."

Before Kensuke could question the teenager, pink smoke poof on Teenage Lambo. Once the smoke cleared, 5 year old Lambo stood before him, happily munching on a lollipop instead of the ice cream.


The first battle was the Sun Ring Battle.

Ryōhei was the first fighter from Vongola. As his opponent, Lussuria was an assassin specialized in kick-boxing. The sun-glasses wearing man was a nice person compared to other Varia members, should you ignored the part of Lussuria being an okama and a skillful assassin. Different story occurred once the battle took place. This proved from how the green haired man not being serious throughout half the battle. Once Lussuria got serious, he showed why he was feared as one of Varia's main members. Lussuria landed some serious damages at Ryōhei. The disadvantage did hinder the white haired young man but he fought back. He has no intention to lose and his training with his Shisō was not for nothing.

Easier said then done. Lusuria was tougher than they had expected. Ryōhei even injured himself when he attacked Lussuria. Kyōko's arrival with Iemitsu became the turn point in the battle. The promise Ryōhei made for his sister drove him to win. Lussuria refused for giving up but didn't last long as he got attacked from behind by the Varia for being weak. With this, Lussuria was deemed unable to continue the battle. Victory achieved Vongola now has the Sun Ring. It didn't bring them any comfort however. If they did that with their own members, then how far will they go so they can get what they want? And Lambo…

Will Lambo be able survive from such merciless opponents like the Varia?


Heavy, dark colored clouds covered the night sky.

Sounds of faraway booming and thunder clashing solidified the tense air.

Tonight, the Lightning Ring Battle was about to start.

Standing in a three story building located at least 10 blocks away from Nami-chū, Kensuke kept his watchful eyes on Tsuna and his Guardians. Reinforced both his eyesight and hearing senses made eavesdropping easier. He didn't want to become an intruder due to the fact he was only a mere member and he wasn't sure with the Varia's reaction if he's around. Everyone else was already in the school ground except Ryōhei who was still in the hospital with Kyōko. Unsurprisingly, Iemitsu and Basil came as well. Only today the blue eyed protégé was released from hospital due to his injuries.

The kendo captain took note how the kind brunet and his friends were tense for Lambo facing a man with umbrellas (?) on his back. Reborn did kick Tsuna on the head, telling the brunet to put his confidence on Lambo despite the kid being a brat. Sweat rolled down from Kensuke's temple at this. How contrary the tiny hitman words compared to his usual behavior to Lambo in there daily lives. The Vongola group stood on one corner while the Varia stood on the opposite side across them.

Standing among the other Varia, was a man around his twenties. He was distinctive with scars and deep scowl on his face. Red eyes were his most noticeable feature. His mind subconsciously supplied the man's name, Xanxus. The first time he saw him through reinforced eyes and hearing, Kensuke almost dropped his black bow from his shock. Xanxus bores uncanny similarities with Gilgamesh. From their blazing crimson eyes, spiky hair style (though Gilgamesh was a blonde while Xanxus was a ravenette), onto their huge amount of arrogance, and their mindset regarding others they deem so below them ('trash' with Xanxus' term and 'mongrel' with Gilgamesh's). Kensuke wouldn't be surprise if Gilgamesh was Xanxus' actual ancestor, never mind with the dimension difference.

A pair of twin females with pink hair –He learned they were the mafioso judges, the Cervello – explained the battle's rules.

Then once they finished, the twins signaled both combatants.

Lambo wasted no time to use his bazooka. Two shoots and twice poofs of pink smokes later, 25 year old Lambo confidently stood instead of 5 years old Lambo. How astonished the faker is upon gazing at grown up Lambo. Grown up Lambo was…different from both little and Teenage Lambo.

For a very brief moment he thought Adult Lambo looked like…a hardened warrior for some reason.

Kensuke couldn't ponder further as soon the fight turned its favor to Adult Lambo's side. And Levi quite pissed off when he got pushed back by a technically 5 years old Guardian. Thus Levi will not hesitate to use more ferocious attacks, using the umbrellas turned out to be swords which were shaped similar to umbrellas –A strange choice of weapon but Kensuke had seen even stranger weapons in his previous life-. Adult Lambo didn't want to lose either, countering them with equally if not more devastating strikes. Such intense battle despite the rain pour started in the middle of battle. Of course these Ring Battles cannot be compared with the Holy Grail War but those battles were brutal in their own way.

"What's wrong? Can't keep it up with me?" Lambo threw another lightning bolt.

Snarling, Levi shrugged the lightning bolt using one of his umbrella-like-swords.

"Just you wait until I got my hands on you, you brat!"

A lightning bolt struck the pavement where Adult Lambo had been a second ago.

"Do you mean I have to wait 20 years to fight you? Nah, I think I'll pass."

A hint of mocking is in there, not so well hidden.

It served to make more tick marks appear on Levi's forehead. Oh the nerve!

"You dare to think highly when I can finish you right now!?"

Another strike sadly missed its target again as Lambo leaped backwards, away from one of Levi's swords.

He landed on another side, giving the spiky haired man a amused gaze.

"Can you?" Despite the calmness, the grown up Lightning Guardian's tone possessed an edge of steel. Reached and pulling out his necklace from inside his shirt with his right hand, Lambo finally had it enough, no more playing. "Time to end this game."

A sound of necklace's chain snapped, following by a strange pulse.

Within Lambo's hand was a pendant taken shape ofsword.

The pendant abruptly grew in size and then a heartbeat later it wasn't a pendant anymore. It couldn't be called one.

Held in Adult Lambo's palm was a real size odd shaped Japanese sword.

Everything stilled for a brief yet deafening silence.

Everyone was stunned, speechless for a better word.

And Levi?

Harsh truth struck him like a truck. He has underestimated the brat for being a weakling and a coward. Now, he will pay for his own arrogance. One thing he was very certain, his respective Boss will have his head for his negligence.

Like in slow motion, everything slowed down at this point.

Among the rain, green lightning crackled alive from the unusually shaped katana. In no time, the lightning already coated the whole blade. As fast as the lightning itself, Adult Lambo clutching the sword with both hands and bolted forward. Closed the distance already with his opponent, as he swung the katana shouting a battle cry. A huge explosion of green lightning was visible even from a distance, followed by ear shattering sound filled the air around the school. Few heartbeats later, the explosion died.

And then, silence came.

Only the sounds of rain filled the chilling air of this gravely silent night.


"It's not a long training but you did make sure I'm not completely helpless. You did give me a weapon so I don't have to depend on my horns."

Kensuke suddenly felt more than just a little uneasiness.

"What weapon?"

It was brief but Lambo's smile held bitterness.

Unnerving the ink colored eyed magus.

With equally unnerving calm, Lambo revealed the answer.

The bright green eyed teen took off his necklace. At a quick glance one can only tell an ordinary necklace with sword like pendant. The assumption soon was proven wrong the moment the pendant lit in green flame, it grew bigger until the handle fit in Teenage Lambo's grasp. It was a Japanese sword with slight curved shaped blade, copying lightning's shape.

Raikiri, the famed legendary sword of Dōsetsu Tachibana.

"Where did you get this―!?"

Soon he realized his tone inappropriately harsh. He inwardly berated himself for acting childish. Lambo didn't seem to mind it, if anything he gave this amused look. Shifted his head slightly, the Bovino turned his glance at the sword he currently held. Reminiscent lurking within those orbs, darkening the bright green his eyes possess. His fingers gently tracing the dark purple handle. The bright green eyed teenager looked so lost in memory.

"You gave me this." He replied quietly. "Said I'll need it. Verde and Giannini linked Raikiri with me or my Flame precisely. This sword should've eroded after existing for so long, I can wield it only thanks to this connection."

"…How―?" His voice came out a little hoarse than he has intended.

His mind ran a mile in a second.

For the first time in this day, Teenage Lambo's smile changed into a bit genuinely smile.

"I'm afraid I can't tell you more than this. You will have to see it soon." he Shrunk Raikiri to a pendant's size at will, Teenage Lambo was then wearing it. The way his hand shielding the pendant hidden beneath the shirt showed how much he treasured it.

The smile never once left Teenage Lambo's lips as he bide him a goodbye.

"My time is almost up, see you again."


On that day, Vongola won the Lightning Ring. With that, they now possessed two rings out of seven.

Only five more rings to go.


TALE 17: A DECISION TO MAKE

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For the rest of the following week, the Rings Battle continued.

Those battles were all no less brutal than the first one.

If someone said the spiky haired brunet was terrified for his friends' life and well-being was an understatement.

In the Storm Ring Battle, Gokudera fought against the tiara boy with knives as his weapons, Belphegor. After an intense fight, the silver haired Storm Guardian won the battle. By all means, the Storm Ring supposedly became his right, this was his victory after all. Belphegor wouldn't let the other Storm get away with the ring for the sadistic prince has set up the battle area with explosives that could kill Gokudera. While at first he absolutely will not give up, he had to after Tsuna himself begged him for the battle will have no meaning should Gokudera die. On one hand, Varia gained the Storm Ring while on the other side, the brunet was relieved that Gokudera obeyed his plea for not risk his own life so the loss wasn't so bad in Tsuna's opinion.

In Rain Ring Battle, Yamamoto faced another sword expert, Squalo. From what Tsuna has been told, the man was called the 'Sword Emperor' in Mafia world. No kidding, the Varia's Rain Guardian is strong and an expert in the sword. Yamamoto struggled to keep his toe with Squalo and almost got overwhelmed at one point because it turned out Squalo can use Shigure Soen Ryu, a style learned within Yamamoto family. Granted, the baseball player managed to turn back the battle and defeated Squalo with his own attack. It wasn't entirely an appealing win though, not when Tsuna witnessed Xanxus' own cruel treatment with injured Squalo. Even until today, Tsuna didn't understand why the man laughed over his own subordinates' suffering.

In Mist Ring Battle, Chrome Dokuro went against one of the illusion user in baby form, Mammon. Chrome was a girl sent by Mukuro himself to become substitute of him to fill the Mist Guardian's position. She came with Ken and Chikusa, apparently the latter two escaped from Vendicare…for the second time. Perhaps it was a story for another time. The girl dressed similarly with Mukuro and it did a good job on making Tsuna apprehensive, the first time they met. Much to Tsuna's bewilderment, they actually can get along well enough once Tsuna accepted her as the Mist Guardian and getting know the kind and quiet girl. It was an intense battle, a battle of illusion against illusion. She did reach her limit since this was her first battle. Unexpectedly, Mukuro emerged by possessing her body and effortlessly won the battle. With Mist Ring, only left from seven rings are Cloud and Sky Rings.

In Cloud however…

The Cloud Ring Battle was a turning point for Tsuna.

It changed the whole Rings Battle's flow.

For better or worse.

In Cloud Ring Battle, Hibari battled with a robot, Gola Mosca. Remembering how ridiculously strong Hibari was, Tsuna took an assumption for an easy win. Despite having lost twice from Shamal and Mukuro, it didn't change the fact that Hibari was still the strongest Guardian among his Guardians. Nonetheless, anything can happen with the Varia as their opponent, Gola Mosca was not an exception from this possibility. With how many weaponry Gola Mosca has, everyone did show their worry for the dark haired prefect and the outcome of the battle. Their worries unfounded as they witnessed Hibari defeated the imposing robot without any difficulties. The brunet shouldn't have been surprised with Hibari gave the ring to the Cervello with a mark he wouldn't need it. This was Hibari they talking about thus in conclusion the prefect was not interested with this kind of thing.

If this victory meant they will gain Cloud Ring, Tsuna would've considered this as good news.

Only, the situation wasn't so simple after the battle.

Chaos began by the time Xanxus was about taking back Mosca.

Hibari's prevention has stopped the man just in time but it wasn't the end of it. All hell broke loose when the robot attacked everyone within the vision out of sudden. It shot all of its bullets, forcing Tsuna for take an immediate act, protecting his friends from harm. Not a good idea come to think of it whenever he looked back, Tsuna inwardly grimaced. It justified though with how uncontrollable the situation was at that time, Tsuna left with little choice and clearly didn't have much time to think ether.

While distracted the rampaging robot was not the smartest move he ever done, it was him or his friends became living targets. As he battled against Gola Mosca however, his Hyper Intuition stirred awake. It tried to tell him something. It kept pointing the spiky haired brunet of 'inside' and 'person'. Of course it sparks questions in Tsuna's mind. He couldn't ponder further as Gola Mosca's attacks become more vicious. Tsuna knew he has to end this quickly, no more buying time as the battle become dangerous. With his Flame, he literally broke the robot until it cannot move anymore, destroyed part of its head and its upper body at the process. Tsuna thought it was over when he spotted an empty room inside the robot. Inside the vacant room was a person.

Dread soon overwhelmed the caught off guard Tsuna.

In fear and anticipation, the brunet tore open part and plat of Gola Mosca's body. Upon tore all of them completely, the world around Tsuna stopped moving. Tsuna forgot breathing when he found out who was inside it. Inside Gola Mosca was Nono, tied and looked as if he was dying if his pale face is an indication.

Suddenly, it made sense to Tsuna.

Suddenly everything cleared to him.

He was such an idiot for not noticing this revelation.

He should've realized it sooner.

He should've found out how Gola Mosca works.

For an artificial one, it carries Cloud Flame, which is quite strange since Flame is manifestation from one's life force and so far as Tsuna acknowledges, robot is not a living being. He should've suspected something was amiss about the so Varia claimed as their Cloud Guardian. He should've followed his instinct for it never once wrong and more than once helped him in tight situation. He should've suspected it sooner. He should've made the connections earlier. He should've been able to save Nono earlier.

All of them didn't happen in the end.

All of this time, Nono was inside Gola Mosca, weakened from Flame drain due to being used as a living battery.

Everything then revealed.

Xanxus was the coup d'état's culprit that had occurred a few years ago. Nono had actually meet Tsuna long ago. The brunet was actually the one Nono chose over Xanxus. The Cervello announced that the next night will be the Sky Battle. Before he went away from the arena, Xanxus left the Sky Ring on Tsuna's care. Not long after, Nono was taken to the hospital for further medical care. Tsuna watched with conflicted mind as the car that carried Nono gone within Namimori's darkness.

It was far from over. The last battle has yet to begin.

The Sky Battle.

It will be the determination from all battles. It will determine the one who is worthy between Tsuna and Xanxus. A crucial moment for both Vongola and Varia. One shall stand, one shall fall. In the end, only one person can take the Don Vongola's mantle. Only one who will become Decimo. Thrill, anticipation, apprehensive, and fear mixed into one complex emotion. Finally he will fight against Xanxus. Finally he will face the scarred man. Will he able to overcome Xanxus? Will the Sky Ring accept him as Vongola's true heir? So many questions with almost non-existed answers. Answers Tsuna is yet to find. Answers he will soon find out by the next night, in the Sky Battle. It freaked Tsuna nonetheless. For the first time within the week, Tsuna's resolve wavered even it's only at the slightest. All of these feelings were too much for Tsuna to get handle.

"―e? Jūdaime!?"

"!"

Jerked and snapped back to reality, Tsuna's warm brown eyes met Gokudera's olive ones.

The silver haired young man gazed back concernedly.

"…Jūdaime?"

"…Yes?"

Tsuna tried to act normal despite how his mind is in turmoil.

He forced to acknowledge how his voice was giving up so much.

His Storm Guardian's concern grew rapidly.

"He has called you a few times." Reborn told him. "A good boss always aware of his surrounding and attentive to his subordinates, I've told you this many times before, Dame-Tsuna."

Oh.

"I'm sorry. I…I have been thinking. What is it?"

"You don't look too well." Gokudera pointed the oblivious.

"I'm fine, Gokudera." Tsuna reluctantly replied, praying the Storm Guardian will done and get along with it.

Not.

Gokudera stilled at the response.

"Are you sure? I can take you to the hospital if you want―"

"No!"

Tsuna answered too hastily, much to his own horror.

The damage has been done unfortunately.

Now everyone is looking at him, gained attention the kind brunet doesn't want.

Tsuna couldn't help but grimacing under their gaze.

Not good.

He's exhausted both physically and emotionally, it affecting him and the way he responded more so than he was aware of.

Looking guilty for his previous act, Tsuna forced himself taking a deep breath.

"I'm sorry." The spiky haired brunet spoke softly. "I'm very much fine. There's nothing wrong. There's nothing to be concerned with. That's why―" Tsuna immediately shut his mouth when he received a pair of narrowed olive green eyes.

The short brunet gulped unconsciously. Uh-oh.

He has seen this look before.

"Jūdaime…" Looks like Gokudera didn't buy the excuse at the slightest.

Tsuna held back a wince from the warning tone.

Recently, Gokudera was a bit too much behaving like a mother hen.

A good treat actually, just not today in this kind of situation.

Tsuna was inwardly curious if the Storm Guardian actually got infected by Nana and Kensuke though Tsuna suspected it was the former.

"I'm not lying. I'm just a bit tired and occupied at the moment, nothing more. You don't have to worry―"

"Tsuna."

Yamamoto, ever silent yet listening from the beginning, gently cut the brunet.

His golden eyes watched his Sky with tenderness. "I think you should go home."

"Eh?" Tsuna startled.

"If there's one thing I can advise now, I'd told you to go get some rest. You need it, we need it after tonight. Especially you."

"Yamamoto-kun…"

"It has been a rough day for everyone. You have the roughest one so don't try denying it. All of us do notice and we do aware. Maa, almost everyone. You've been tense ever since you found that old man inside the robot, Tsuna. You've been strained since the end of the battle."

Has he?

Was Tsuna really that obvious?

"You need to go home and this is not a request. Don't you agree too?" The Rain Guardian addressed this at Gokudera.

Gokudera growled but he doesn't deny it.

D****t, was the baseball idiot this perspective?

Wasn't Yamamoto supposed to be…well, a baseball freak like always?

Heck, maybe he will never truly understand this guy for the rest of his life.

"Even if he's an idiot, he's not entirely wrong. Mamma is waiting for you in home. It'll be better if you see her."

"Hahaha! See? Even Gokudera agreed!"

"Shut up, you moron!" The green olive eyed teen snapped. "And stop laughing! It's annoying to hear it comes from you!"

"Eh? Why?"

"Because I said so! God d*****t, one day you and your laugh will be the f***ing death of me!"

"Aw, don't be like that! And please watch your language, Gokudera."

"Like h*** I care!"

Tsuna was touched by his friends' care and attention.

But his mind was still fixed on the shadow of the dying Nono.

"But Nono…"

"Will be in a good hands." Reborn interjected with a emotionless voice, leaving no room for argument. "Shamal is the best doctor of the Mafioso, he'll handle Nono just fine. Rather than him, you should prioritized your goals, first the Sky Battle."

The seemingly endless onyx eyes gazed at the brunet, daring his current pupil to argue. Knowing he'll lose with Reborn no matter how hard he tries, Tsuna finally gave up. Resigned, he closed his mouth, the short brunet refrained from more arguments half-formed in his head already. As much as he wanted to protest, Reborn was always grudgingly right. It'll be better if Tsuna was trusting the small hitman and get on with it.

"Jūdaime…"

"…Let's go back." Tsuna spoke at last. "This isn't over yet. Tomorrow night will be the last battle. I must be ready by that time."

Both Storm and Rain Guardians's gesture relaxed as their Sky's tenseness loosened to an extent.

At least it was a good start.

"If you say so." Yamamoto said. Gokudera nodded beside him.

"Just tell us if you need anything, whatever it is. We're here, Jūdaime."

A tired, sincere smile from Tsuna was more than enough to lift the half Italian and the baseball idol's worry. Rather than the gloomy expression he was wearing until a while ago, Tsuna is far more suited with a warmth filled smile that's capable of brightening the day. They liked it that way very much. It's their duty, for continuously support their beloved Sky. After all, isn't this is what the purpose of friends for?


Inside the Sawada household, curled on his bed, the brunet should've been asleep. Only, he found that he was not sleepy. At all. Not quite a good thing, for rest currently was a prime necessity for the brunet. He needed rest for the upcoming Sky Battle. Groaning, Tsuna clutched his pillow desperately, burying his face deeper into the soft pillow.

"What should I do?"

A knock from the door disrupted him. Frowning, the spiky haired brunet has his attention toward the door. It was almost in the middle of night. Who could've been possibly awake in such ungodly hour?

Shifted slightly, Tsuna answered the knock. "Yes?"

"Tsu-nī?" A quiet voice called from behind the door.

"…Shiori?" Tsuna was sitting up from the bed. With quick movements, he opened the door and found the familiar small form of a lavender haired girl. She hugged a bunny doll, hiding half her face behind it. "What are you doing here? Aren't you sleeping with Fūta?"

A habit grew ever since Fūta and Shiori's kidnapping attempt. She slept in the Sawada household every 3 days.

Such a coincident for today is the day she sleepover with Fūta.

"I can't sleep." Shiori was more nervous than before. "…May I sleep with you?"

"Why me?"

"Uhm…You're so warm and comforting like a huge teddy bear?" The brunet was flattered when Shiori admitted his presence comforted her. Another question popped in his mind on the other hand, one Tsuna couldn't help but sweat-dropped. Why he got compared with teddy bear, though?

"Pretty please, Tsu-nī?"

Oh God. No, no, no. Not this, anything but this. Round, innocent eyes gazed set at him pleadingly. Now not only Tsuna can't refuse, he doesn't have the heart for turn down the little girl's request. Biting his lower lips, the kind brunet must make a decision. Guess he has no choice then.


"So…Shiori?" Tsuna prompted carefully. "Can I ask what your nightmare is about?"

Shiori let out a discomfort shuffle.

"You don't have to answer it if you don't want. It's okay." Tsuna hastily told her, his tone gentle.

"…I have a scary dream."

Wrinkles on Tsuna's forehead increased. "About what?"

"…I saw you get hurt." Shiori admitted after a long pause, she was upset certainly. "Ani-ue gets hurt too."

"Oh…"

No wonder she was adamant being sleep with him, clinging at him like a life saver. She wanted assurance whether Tsuna was alright or not. He remembered he read this once in a book. Sometimes, nightmare can become very real depending on each person who has experienced it. Sometimes, it acts as a warning or a sign or a premonition. Wow, all those Spartan lessons Reborn gave him now useful.

They were in the bed now, wrapped in thick, warm blanket. Tsuna was on one side while Shiori on the other side, close to each other.

"It's must be sound silly for you…" Dejected, Shiori then was burying her face into her bunny doll.

"No! It doesn't sound silly at all, Shiori. Not at all." Tsuna rebutted hastily.

Se green eyes peeked from behind the doll. "Really?"

"Yes, really." Tsuna meant it every word. "As you can see though, I'm pretty much fine."

"It doesn't stop me from being worried."

The kind brunet offered a timorous smile. "That, I cannot disagree with you."

Another pause fell between them. No one talk, took in the comforting silence.

"I want to be a heroine."

It caught Tsuna off guard. The quiet yet sudden outburst.

He wondered what caused the girl said that out of blue.

"Shiori?" He eyed the little girl, watching her carefully.

"Sometimes, there are times when I wish I can grow up quickly and become a heroine."

Tsuna blinked repeatedly. Never was he expecting little Shiori for wishing as a heroine. As far as he has been aware of, she dreamed as a farmer. She said she will help all those poor people in Africa and Asia who suffer and starve by creating food that can survive in harsh environments and are immune against various diseases. Tsuna thought it was a noble goal and the girl will become a great farmer. Thus, Tsuna was surprised once he find out she wished as a heroine. Why heroine though?

"Why you wished so?"

"I thought…I can protect my brother if I became one."

.

BADUMP!

.

The girl's wish stirred something inside him.

It affected him, the girl's quiet yet determinedly reply.

"Everyone makes my world and brings light to my life. They're part of my life. That's why I want to protect you all, you're all that important. It's same for Tsu-nī too."

Tsuna was stunned as he heard the girl's innocent yet determined statement. The spiky haired brunet was completely speechless.

Suddenly, Tsuna felt so stupid.

He had found his answer and resolve back after being conflicted.

How could he forget? Why did he ever hesitate? What was his reason for fight all of this time? Wasn't he fighting so he can protect his family and friends who always give him strength and support unconditionally? Defend them who find their way inside his lonely heart and gave colors above his monotone and almost meaningless life? So he can spend his time with them, some who were already an inseparable part of his ever bright, warm world? Wasn't it because he has his family and friends now that he mustn't lose with Xanxus? Doesn't he vow for a change in the mafia and especially Vongola, so the brunet must become the Decimo? So why was he hesitating to continue? Why was he scared for no apparent reason just because he witnessed how ruthless Xanxus was? This was the reason why he must prove himself to the scarred man. This was the reason why he will not let Xanxus getaway after what he has done with others and Nono.

A rueful smile found its way on the kind brunet's lips. "Because they're part of our life, huh…"

"Tsu-nī?"

"It's nothing." Ushered the girl, Tsuna gently stroke Shiori's hair. "Go sleep. It's already late. Can't have you late for school, right?"

By the time Shiori yawned, Tsuna let out a light chuckle. "See?"

"'Kay." Though reluctant, Shiori closed her sea green eyes contentedly. "Good night, Tsu-nī…"

Once the girl was out like a light, Tsuna let himself fall into deep slumber.

No more restless. No more anxiety. No more agitation.

Anything but sheer of calmness and acceptance dwelled within Tsuna.

Gently patted her head, Tsuna uttered words that was no louder than a mere whisper.

"Good night, Shiori…"

'Thank you…'

The spiky haired brunet inwardly thanked the slumbering little girl.

Tsuna too slowly sank inside blissful darkness.

For the first time in this stressful week, the kind brunet had a peaceful sleep.

Not aware that a certain hitman's absence in his usual hammock.


Perching on the rooftop and dressed in his usual black suit, Reborn dialed a number through his Leon-phone.

He was patiently waiting for someone answers the phone on the other end.

The onyx eyed hitman smirked when the person finally took the phone.

KLIK.

"Hello?"

"Ciaossu. I assumed you're in the middle of work as usual?"

An unnerving stagnant hung in the air.

"Reborn?" Disbelief reply came from the other line.

"The one and only, Fake Janitor."

"…Since when did you get my number?"

This sparked the Sun Arcobaleno's amusement.

"Hmph. Which part from a number one hitman you don't understand?"

A sound suspiciously sounded like snap could be heard. A series of curse came later.

First score;

Reborn: 1 point, Kensuke: 0 point.

"Reborn, you should aware that I'm not pleased with this privacy breach."

Reborn snorted. As if it will stop the hitman from making the teen abide at him. Reborn could be very 'persuasive' if he wanted. Granted he has a perfect blackmail material for this one. A golden chance for the Sun Arcobaleno will not miss this opportunity. He will use this particular skill and ruffle the teen's feathers, his reactions always interesting. Let's see if his skill has gone rusty or not.

"If you think you'll need a necessary act then go ahead. It gave me no impact." Reborn's smirk grew sharp. "Don't blame me if my Dying Will Bullets suddenly found its way straight to you. Along with some fascinating information I stumbled upon. Just like these wonderful pictures I taken during New Year when you kiss this lovely girl during your attempt to shield the girl from free falling―"

Reborn rewarded with a choked noise from the other side of phone.

"Wait, what!? When and how did you―?!"

"Secret connections and spies in here and there." Reborn chuckled darkly, enjoying the blanched tone. "Do you want to see it? I must say you have an interesting pose in there."

"Gah! No!" Blushing furiously, Kensuke forced abandoning the subject.

God, such a shameful accident he didn't want to remember. The faker hadn't mean stole the girl's first kiss. It was just his infamous bad luck that his feet slipped when he attempted pulling back the girl before she started falling from shrine's stairs due to being too eager and slipped. Then the accidental kiss happened. As if made it worse, the girl spontaneously hit him on the cheek. Heck, he was lucky enough he was only with his family so nobody outside knew this embarrassing moment. It has been bad enough his parents keep teasing him about it.

"Fine, you win! What do you want, Reborn!?"

Smirk filled of victory curled on Reborn's lips.

Latest score;

Reborn: 2 points, Kensuke: 0 point.

"I will go straight to the point so pay attention. I'd rather not repeat it again." Reborn pressed this, making sure the teen follow him. "I need you work a specific task."

A long pause.

"Is this has something to do with, dare may I say, the Sky Battle?"

The Sun Arcobaleno was arched his tiny eyebrow. "It's more like dealing with Varia. You're surprisingly quick despite your painfully average rate in school."

Kensuke studiously ignored the mock. "Why me? Don't you have someone else suited for this…job?"

"I'm regretfully must say that, this is a task specifically designed for you." Reborn doesn't feel sorry at the slightest on the contrary with his statement. If anything, he even sounded smug, irked the kendo captain even more. This devil's incarnation did enjoy this, did he? "Or if you have anyone in the mind, you can just tell me."

The retort was already on the tip of his tongue before he soon realized that in fact he indeed didn't have any replacement. Such dirty trick Reborn has willingly used against him. Closed all the possibilities he had in his hands to refuse the ever sadistic hitman.

"…I can't refuse, can I?"

Latest score;

Reborn: 3 points, Kensuke: 0 point.

"I take it that you'll accept it?"

The magus made a resigned and suffered sigh. "Fine. No killing."

A darker version of satisfaction smile arced on Reborn's lips.

"Excellent."

Latest score;

Reborn: 4 points, Kensuke: 0 point.

Winner: Reborn.

With his victory is rest assured, there was nothing Sun Arcobaleno needs concern with. Or so he thought.

"Just one thing. Consider I will never make any Turkey Milanese for you if the pictures leak."

Latest score;

Reborn: 4 points, Kensuke: 1 point.

Even when his trusted chameleon stayed still, the Sun Arcobaleno sensed Leon's eyes glanced at his direction, so accusing and not so forgiving. If they lose the chance to have all those heavenly foods Kensuke made, Leon will certainly maim his master. Not something Reborn wish either when the teen can create dishes comparable with those of five stars hotels, perhaps even more. Moreover, the foods were for free.

This, the Sun Arcobaleno absolutely needed to concern about.


Next night…

At the opening, few blocks away from Nami-chū

It was a lovely night where one spent in comfortable quietness.

Or so you'd think.

Which lead Kensuke to a question…Can someone reminds him why this happened at the first place?

"…"

"…"

Standing on one side was a man in his late twenties in neat suit and held a huge morning star, assessed the other person just as the magus scrutinized him.

Cleared his throat, Kensuke broke the stillness.

"I'm not mean being rude…but who are you?"

The tense on the man's stance lessened although the unknown man kept sending him a wary gaze.

"Lancia. I'm here to help Sawada Tsunayoshi." He got a stare from the younger male.

"Aren't you supposed to be in Vendicare?" Or so the faker had been informed from Tsuna.

At this, Lancia went stiffened slightly. Oh.

So that's why the older man was in here. He had escaped. Kensuke found himself pinched the bridge of his nose. The magus met the blond haired teen and the glassed boy barely few days ago. Before that, he caught news of second escapade from the two of them. So not only Ken and Chikusa, this man also escaped from Vendicare for the second time?

"…Is this a habit popular among the prisoners?" It was clear that Kensuke disturbed by this discovery.

Lancia noticeably grew uncomfortable. "…No. I will assure you that we escaped for…a specific reason."

"Oh." Kensuke awkwardly nodded. "I suppose I must give my gratitude for a great help you gave."

"No need thanked me. You shouldn't view yourself low with your swordsmanship and… weapon of choice." The man's dark eyes shifted at Torashinai, eyeing it very apprehensively.

Not quite surprising if the faker reinforced the eccentric, bloodthirsty shinai at least 3 times stronger. Against Varia's low level members, using a Noble Phantasm would be too much. A sympathetic smile found its way to Kensuke's lips.

"I suppose Torashinai is not just your normal shinai."

Lancia threw another apprehensive glance at Torashinai, shivering briefly. "I can see the reason." He then realized he didn't know the boy's name. "And you are…?"

"Mochida Kensuke. Tsuna told me about you."

Even not noticeable enough, Lancia's lips curved upward. "Lancia will do."

Kensuke decided that Lancia was likeable and nice guy despite his scary look.

"Likewise." The third rate magus replied, handshaking the hand Lancia offered.

The upward curve stretched on Lancia's lips widened a bit.

.

.

Scattered around them were dozens of low members' Varia. All of them unconscious, suffering various kind of injuries and bruises that landed them in hospital. Months later after they healed, they developed irrational fear for shinai and oddly tiger like yellow-black stripped motif.

Later, they received news from Reborn via cellphone. Tsuna won over Xanxus and the predecessors acknowledged him as Decimo. Everyone was safe. With this, Tsuna recognized as the heir of Vongola and Rings Battle's conclusion. They also received news that although critical, Nono was out of danger and recovered just fine.

Problem solved. Most of it, anyway.


TALE 18: ONCOMING STAGE

.

.

Two days passed after the Sky Battle. The peace slowly came back to Namimori. Yamamoto thought it would be a great idea to celebrate their victory by eating sushi in Takesushi. They will meet at 5 pm in the evening. For a certain cursed hitman he has a couple hours to spend before the appointment, it was more than enough. As the sun shone bright, the Sun Arcobaleno sat on a bench in a deserted park with his chameleon partner, waiting for someone. His patience paid off as a small hooded figure came across him, floated above the ground. Golden colored Ouroboros circled above the hooded baby's head.

"Reborn…" The cursed illusionist greeted.

"…Viper." Reborn acknowledged the other Arcobaleno then paused. "No. Should I call you with your current name?" He spoke.

"Mammon will suffice for now."

"You're not with Varia?" The black suited Arcobaleno absentmindedly noted.

"I came alone merely because I have a business with you."

Amusement did bleed from Reborn's tone. "You rarely come unless something caught your attention."

A scowl appeared on Mammon's visible lower face.

"Shut up, Reborn. I want confirm something."

"And that is?"

"Do you happen in contact with a sorcerer?"

Reborn stayed silent in long silence. Cute yet expressionless poker face the number one hitman always wore might give no hint of what he'd think but the suspicion already arose inside his mind. The gears worked in quick phase, making any possible assumptions he can think of. Was Mammon talked about the one and only person the hitman indeed had been thought? If so, what did exactly Viper want with that person?

"What's with the sudden interest?"

Mammon did not amuse. Reborn however, did.

Escalated the cursed illusionist's ire even more.

And Mammon knew the hitman was very aware about this.

Knowing this simple fact served the illusionist's growl.

"Will it kill you if I keep this for my own just for once?" Mammon snapped at the cursed hitman.

"Will it kill you if I determine your true intention?" Countered in ease, Reborn let a smirk slipped across his face.

A tick mark popped on the hooded Arcobaleno.

Oh, for the love of―

The Mist Arcobaleno could've sworn he will wipe out that despicable smirk from the Sun Arcobaleno.

He enjoyed this so much, the smug and cocky bastard.

"Must you this irking when I asked politely?"

"Must you so secretive when I need confirmation?"

Playful the hitman's tone was but it never reached his beady, black eyes.

It was a threat layered beneath casual conversation.

Consequence will await the illusionist should he kept refused.

"You and your cockiness. Nothing can change you even after years."

"I'll take it as compliment."

Mammon sent the best warning glare he can give.

"Reborn."

Decided he has enough by going circle, the hitman spoke up.

"I do not know any wizard but I may know a spellcaster." It was a bait Reborn threw at the other Arcobaleno.

Simple and effective bait so he can gauge Mammon's reaction. Not like he care with Mammon's business. What became the source of his attention was the Mist Arcobaleno asked for one specific spellcaster. A spellcaster happened as Tsuna's famiglia member. The brat may not a Guardian but even a low member was still precious.

An unreadable emotion marred the cursed illusionist's hooded face. Not that Reborn can see it when the hood was up but he didn't need and he wasn't seeing the necessary. He can read body languages very well to the point people assumed he can read their minds. It wasn't entirely wrong. And the ever slight tense on the Mist Arcobaleno was a storytelling enough.

"You said…you may in touch with a spellcaster."

"Perhaps."

Bingo.

"Then where is this spellcaster?"

"Why you insist on finding him? Why is the urgent, Mammon?"

"…"

Hostile aura that previously nonsexist now spiked a lot.

Clearly the other baby doesn't like to share the knowledge that the Mist Arcobaleno has.

Mammon can be quite stubborn when he wanted to.

Not this time however. Reborn has few tricks under the sleeve, he wouldn't need to concern.

He will get what he wanted and Mammon's valuable information wasn't an exception.

Black, beady eyes gleamed.

"I gave you free information. Isn't it fair if you give me one answer in return?"

Calm his voice was but the darkness and danger was evident, hidden within the sultry voice of his. Carrying the weight of truth from what he had spoken a little while ago. It hit the Mist Arcobaleno on the sore spot. An almost unnoticeable twitch was in there, on the illusionist's lips edge. A single, small movement Reborn noticed without any difficult. And the Mist Arcobaleno was also aware the other must have seen it. The hooded baby clicked his tongue. As much as he was very reluctant for sharing, what Reborn told him earlier does have some weights of truth.

"Only for this time, Reborn. I warn you it will cost lots if you want more information."

Not a problem, he does have the money. It may cost him.

However with this, the Sun Arcobaleno gained an upper hand.

He could collected information he deemed as important.

"So?" The pint sized hitman prompted.

Annoyed, the Mist Arcobaleno began his tale. "The day when Varia confronted Vongola in Namimori for the first time…You do aware of someone's interference, don't you?"

The hitman's lips faintly curved upward. Jack pot.

"If what you mean is the blue projectile descended from the sky on that day then yes, I do." Reborn confirmed. "You found out who did it?"

"I told you it'll cost you."

"I'll pay it." Reborn backhanded easily.

"Make sure you do have enough."

"I have more than enough. Do you want to know?"

Rolled his eyes as he muttered incoherent words, Mammon spoke further. "I swore you'll kill me one day."

"But you didn't. You're dead and here you are, very much alive as far as I concerned."

"Don't. Start it." Mammon sighed exasperatedly. "It's a matter I cannot ignore. Not when there was what can be close to a monster is lingering outside there."

"…Why?"

"It wasn't a normal projectile. It was…" For the first time in their conversation, Mammon's tone was anything but showing restless edge. "It was a sword made from pure energy."

Reborn furrowed his eyebrows.

His first though was the weapon might have been fueled by Mist Flame. It must be a strong Mist Flame user to create destructive explosive. Mukuro was a good example for he can create lava and lotus vines from nothingness through his exceptionally powerful Mist Flame. His illusions alone can drive a person insane if the victim's mental wasn't strong enough. The very same factor which allowed Mukuro overwhelmed Mammon within the Mist Ring Battle. A plausible theory, it wasn't impossible, the chance was in there.

"I would've assumed it was made through Mist Flame and a powerful one."

Yet, this was where the problem lies.

No matter how possible the theory was, there was weakness.

From this particular part, something began truly amiss.

This wasn't right in more than one way.

"Considered how a Mist Flame shouldn't have cause large amount of destruction behind…it wasn't the case."

The hooded baby went stiffened.

"It was created from energy that normally used by wizards and witches. In other word, magic. No wizards or sorcerers I knew can ever utilize destructive weapon like that one nevertheless. Even with my Mist Flame, it is impossible."

It grabbed the hitman's wariness for a good reason. Viper, or Mammon was one of the Strongest Seven and the strongest Mist Flame user, who abilities were create illusion world and various objects from empty air. And now the Mist Arcobaleno told him that there was an object he couldn't create no matter how hard he tried?

But then again, Mist Flame's characteristic was Construction with Materialization as its ability. Making the said flame was suitable for creating illusions. It can do damage when one controlled with right combination of calculation mixed with excellent control. Very realistic illusions aside, it can burn the targets since Mist Flame was basically flame. Advantage of Mist Flame however ended up there. Mist Flame was good in offensive use but in offensive power, entire different story occurred. Mist Flame cannot do physical damage because the flame's density was low. And the projectile on that day without doubt wasn't materialized from Mist Flame. The aspect of weapon's creation might be a Mist Flame user's doing.

Produced obliteration as large as the one from the Varia's first encounter in Namimori, though?

"How so?"

"It carried power no mortal can wield, Reborn. I never witness something like that in my life both as Arcobaleno and illusionist. Whoever constructed the sword, he is very strong."

Solemn took over the black eyed hitman, gone all his previous smugness.

He completely paid his attention at the hooded Arcobaleno.

"And you suspected that this has some sort of connection with the spellcaster?"

Behind the dark hood, Mammon gazed in mix between alert and anticipation.

"Is he the one?" Suspicion was bleed from his usual flat tone.

That was what the black eyed baby was intended to find out. Reborn casted a side glance from underneath his fedora. "It's still too early. We don't have any evidence point at him."

Mammon however, had known the hitman for so long. "I was right, wasn't I?"

"I've been meaning to tell you, Mammon, it is still too early to make a baseless suspicion." Reborn reminded the other baby. "We have yet figure out if he was indeed interfered on that day or not."

"What do you planned then?"

"Nothing for now."

An unnerving silence fell.

"…What? You're not going to spill him out?" Incredulity sipped through Mammon's tone.

The Sun Arcobaleno snorted. "Confrontation is inevitable. It will occur, just not today. Until then, I believe I will need further observation and information."

"What made you took the decision?"

Sharp smirk curled as the response. With calm yet cocky voice of his, Reborn simply answered as if telling the grass was green and the sky is blue. As if it was an obvious thing everyone was supposed to be aware of.

"Intuition."


"So…, you'll go to Italy once Nono given his notify?"

It was too sudden for the kendo captain.

Two months barely passed since the conclusion from Rings Battle. They came out alive and got the other halves of the rings was a relieving fact Kensuke would never denied. Still, for them to go to Italy in near future?

Tsuna smiled meekly. "There's this inheritance ceremony in Vongola Mansion. Or so I've been told."

"Dame Tsuna will attend with his Guardians. The purpose none other solidify his title as an heir. Make it as an official. His Guardians will follow him, it's a part from mandatory."

If possible, the ominous smirk Reborn wore might grow wider than usual. Tsuna gulped nervously at the spooky sight, his Intuition started tingling in a wrong way. Oh no. After spending time with Reborn, the brunet slowly grew to anticipate the worst once the Sun Arcobaleno showed that particular smile.

"Don't worry. Before the inheritance, I'll make sure tripled your training."

"Hiiieeeee!? Why?!"

"Because I am your tutor and it is my job." Reborn scratched his chameleon's head, watching as Leon closed its eyes in content. Spoke it with fake innocence and enjoying the horrified expression his student made.

How he was more than eager to tor-tutoring his current student for he saw how much potential Tsuna possessed within. Few schemes already formed inside the hitman's head, Reborn wondered which method he shall use for Tsuna's next lesson.

Shaking his black mob of head, Kensuke wisely ignored the disturbing scene. "Will Iemitsu attend it?"

It wasn't hard watching how Tsuna's shoulders stiffened at the mention of his father's name.

All of the brunet's emotions mixed into one huge internal storm.

How he replied back his friend's inquiry when he wasn't sure about him and Iemitsu's relation?

"Uhm, he's…"

"He will. He's the CEDEF Head after all who has close tie with Vongola."

Apparently, Reborn read Tsuna's internal arguments and responded by himself. For a sadistic, dark tutor, Reborn was astonishingly having good traits. Hidden far and deep beneath that all black and dangerous façade. Despite not wanted to admit it aloud, Tsuna sent a silent gratitude for the self proclaimed tutor. A nod was all he gave for confirmation.

"Yeah."

Tsuna watched the other's lips twisted downward. "I take it that things with him are still awkward?"

"Yeah." Tsuna chewed his lower lips. "Basil is nice once you get to know him but, ah…"

"If you don't want to talk it, I understand."

"…I can't believe he let Nono sealed my Flame."

"…Neither do I."

"While it did make the sealed one appear as the Flameless like civilians would like, it does bear a heavy consequence." Reborn began after a long pause. "The consequence can be vary but mostly that person will lose the balance that his Flame previously anchored as the Flame had been sealed, leaving his core empty. As a result, the sealed one cannot perform tasks like normal people can do. Even for simpler tasks, he will have difficulties on carry it. It can leave him at stagnant phase, a phase where he cannot express and act normally. Sealing the Flame will mean sealing half of a person's emotion."

Flinched, Kensuke made a face. "…That's nasty."

Onyx eyes visibly darkened. "So as it sounds."

Reborn himself wouldn't too disagree either. Even in mafia world, Sealing has been considered as a very risky option. They only use this technique in rare times when all ways they tried meet a dead end. Usually, Sealing always involved the criminals but never a child. Even until this day, the black eyed hitman cannot comprehend on what Timoteo and Baka-Iemitsu had been thinking.

Tsuna put his hand on his chest where the Sky Ring was.

"I'm just glad everyone made it alive." He spoke in a hush.

There was another long pause as they made their way to their respective home. Both Yamamoto and Gokudera were late at the moment but they promised they will catch up with Tsuna. Haru and Kyōko will come home with them as well. The brunet was lucky for having good and loyal friends, Kensuke mentally chuckled. Taking a deep breath, he sensed how the air was quite humid and warm. Sometimes a cool wind caressing their face, eased them from the unforgivable heat came from the burning, summer sun. The rain season has ended few weeks before and with rain and typhoon gone, the summer's torment was truly began.

"It will be summer break soon."

Tsuna stopped at his track. "Huh? I don't really notice it. Is it already?"

"U-huh."

"So fast." Was the time flows that quick? Then Tsuna thought all the events took place in Namimori. A tired sigh escaped and Tsuna felt slightly older. Yup, time surely passed without him notice at once.

"There will be some homework."

Ah yes. Homework. How could he forget that?

A torture he'd rather avoid in summer.

Just think it enough to make Tsuna whined.

"Please don't remind me. Please don't." He begged. Can he just take a moment to organize his jumbling thoughts?

"You can have Yamamoto and Gokudera study together, you can tag Haru, Kyōko, and Hana. I am by myself." A glint entered the reincarnated magus' eyes. "How's your relation with them recently?"

In a flash, an infectious and bright smile bloomed across Tsuna's lips. So bright it almost rivaled the sun. All the previous gloomy were gone without any trace. His brown eyes lit up and the light inside them grew stronger. At sudden Sawada Tsunayoshi was full of life. Contradicted with his earlier state, it was almost unbelievable he depressed a while ago. He told Kensuke in contagious happiness.

"Oh! We're fine. Kyōko is so kind and always smiling at me, Hana is kind of strict but she is kind of nice. Haru is a very good friend! Everything is good so far."

Tsuna had to stop when he saw Kensuke's knowing yet mischievous smile. Soon, the Vongola heir's cheeks flushed in deep shade of red. Ugh. He did a little excited at the idea of budding friendship. He must've sounded like a love-struck girl.

"Oh, I see… T v T"

"What's with that tone and face?! Σ /Д/"

"Did something happen?"

"There's nothing happened between us!" Tsuna denied in all his might.

Kensuke raised an eyebrow, not completely convinced. "Really?"

"No!"

"Hoh?" Reborn's trademark devilish smirk appeared. "Dame-Tsuna, you're really useless."

"Huh!?" Tsuna did a double take. If it was possible, the hitman's smirk grew wider.

"As a mafia boss, picking a suitable wife is a must. For merely think that you can't pick one between these girls. That's not good."

He then spluttered incoherently with a deep red blush.

"What!? No, what are you saying, I'm still 14 and we're not into…into that kind of relationship!" Tsuna flustered even more at the assertion.

"Nono met his wife when he was roughly in same age. So why can't you?"

"Is this normal among Mafioso?" Tsuna face palmed, feeling the headache coming. "This is ridiculous…"

From the corner of his sight, Kensuke caught the glimpse of cow printed shirt. Speaking about ridiculous…

"Gyahahahaha! Lambo-sama will not fail today! Prepare to die!"

TWACK!

WHACK!

WHAM!

No different from any other days ―depending how you consider a child assassin always attempted to kill a shrunken hitman as normal sight― Lambo jumping out from wherever he stay hidden. Like usual, the bright green eyed Bovino gleefully cackled and was about to throw his pink grenade. Like usual, Lambo's attempt met failure the moment Reborn effortlessly kick him on the face. As if it wasn't enough, the Sun Arcobaleno punched Lambo few times. The last punch had Lambo landed with a harsh thud. Yelped in alarm, the faker moved in reflect, successfully catch the small Bovino within his arms. Feeling his heart beat rapidly, Kensuke let out a huff. Carefully, he placed the little Lightning Guardian on the ground.

Wew. That was too close.

"Hiieee! Reborn, stop it! That's enough! This is the fourth time in this month!" The kendo captain noted the chided borderline fear tone Tsuna used. Which Reborn acknowledged it not more than like a passing wind. In other word, he kind of ignored it.

Imagine how Kensuke alarmed by the time Lambo hiccupped and tears pooled already.

"Must-Tolerate-It."

Tsuna, already knew what kind of event will unfold, went paled several shades.

Everything involved with 10 Years Bazooka were mostly ended with collateral damage.

And no, it was the very last thing Tsuna ever wanted!

Reborn wouldn't bother but the spiky haired brunet does!

"Lambo, no, don't―!" Before Tsuna ever finish, the familiar sign of bazooka came from Lambo's hair.

…And maimed at none other than Tsuna.

His wide, shock filled eyes cannot turn away from the bazooka's barrel.

Tsuna found himself being unable to move, Kensuke's highly alarmed shout sounded so far away yet close in his ears.

From the other side, a cocked gun's sound reached his ears. A sign Reborn undoubtedly will shoot him a Dying Will Flame given the chance.

An act later proved unnecessary.

Everything came next occurred in a blur. Before, the spiky haired brunet has been frozen on the spot. There was a frantic footsteps came next to him and as he felt the pressure on his left side, the world around him abruptly shifted. The next thing Tsuna aware, he wasn't standing anymore but lie on the concrete instead. His brown orbs spotted all the familiar sign of wrapped shinai slung on the shoulder and black hair. It was then Tsuna's mind registered all the scenes, drawing a conclusion all at once.

Horrified realization entered the small brunet's brown eyes.

Kensuke shoved him out from 10 Years Bazooka, he was within the bazooka's aim.

There was little to no time for a defense.

Struggled on his feet, Tsuna was reaching out for his friend.

Try to defy the fate, he reaching out his hand for the older boy.

His friend's name slipped from his mouth.

.

.

It was too late for the Vongola's heir.

The trigger has been pulled.

A loud boom and large amount pink smoke after...

Kensuke was gone.

Tsuna didn't encounter Kensuke from 10 years in future.

Only one thing did present in Kensuke's place.

A silver necklace with cracked red pendant.

A necklace with dried bloodstains covered almost half on it.


TALE 19: RAGNAROK

.

.

For some time, he felt nothing but the numbness and the dark.

Oh yes, the pain was real.

The hurt has been so intense to the point it numbed his sense of only for a temporary. His strength failed him as he kept lay in there. And it soured the faker's mood, almost made the reincarnated spellcaster nearly pissed off. It was unavoidable nonetheless. Let's just admit. Being shot by a bazooka was bad in its own way in Kensuke's opinion. Every muscle protested in here and there. Lenient and kind he was with Lambo but not this time. A reprimand is an absolute necessary once he back.

It wasn't a pleasant feeling mind you.

As Shirō, he was already acquaintance with various kinds of pain.

As Shirō, he learned from countless fights to ignore them.

Just not this one.

Humiliating indeed but it was second from being impaled by Lancer's Gae Bolg.

If he could prefer, he'd rather avoided it as much as possible.

"Ugh…ugh…"

Groaned, his hand moved to his throbbing head, nursing it in tender. It did help a little lessening the painful sensation happened with his head. A thing that Kensuke supposed he should've anticipated long before. He did fall after hit by bazooka's missile.

"That hurt…" Hand was yet massaged the temple, Kensuke slowly opened his eyes.

Half expected seeing the vast sky with white puffy clouds lazily floated.

What greeted his sight was an entirely different sky.

Instead of calming blue sky with white clouds, the sky he was looking drenched in blaze of orange and yellow.

Instead of sweet scent of air, the air carried the dusty and copper scent.

Instead the asphalt, the ground beneath him was entirely dirt.

Few gleams came from his eyesight's corner. Heart now beating thunderously, the reincarnated magus rose and noted the place where he ended up with. Astonish overwhelming him because as far as he can see, only ruins from some sort of buildings, a wide area of light brown earth. A memory stirred from a distant past. About a city destroyed and burning only in one night in a distant past. Memory of corpses and the scent of fire and burning flesh. A young boy, died once and reborn in the middle of fire as a sword's embodiment. This scene was disturbingly sharing similarities with the Fuyuki after the fire.

It wasn't what has stopped Kensuke from thinking further though.

Within this wasteland, what filled the land itself that caught him.

Swords.

Hundreds. Thousands of them.

Scattered across the land.

Mundane and masterpiece.

Holy and demonic.

Cursed and blessed.

Famed and nameless.

Long ones and short ones.

Not only swords but also various weapons. Lance, spear, axe, dagger, and many more. Every kind of weapons you could name. Stabbed on the earth solemnly, just like unnamed grave markers for fallen heroes. Silent yet deadly. Motionless yet powerful. All of their silver blades gleamed in their glory. Shone oh so bright by the sunset, their rather simplistic beauty may rivaled those of brilliant stars in the night sky. Like they too, were actually possessed life like any other living beings.

A scene terrifyingly resembled Unlimited Blade Works inside Kensuke's mind.

And in there…

Laid on the very center of wasteland was none other than Kensuke.

"…―!?"

His stomach twisted in unpleasant way.

For the first time after he woke up, Kensuke felt immense nausea.

"Where…is this?"

It was slightly scared him. How he stood alone in such wide, devoid land.

"Where am I?"

Why he was here? Why the land was like this? Was a battle once took place before? If so, it doesn't explain the swords. Where these weapons and swords are came from? What about his future self then? Was this linked with his future self somehow? He was hit by Lambo's Ten Years Bazooka, it'd make sense if he switched with his future self. It brings Kensuke more questions beg for answers he has yet find out. It worried him. While he indeed came to the future and standing in the middle of deserted land marked with swords, it spoke of wrongness. He mentally listed how the desert destroyed by some sort of fight. With all these numbers of swords, does this mean his ten years self who did this? How and why? What made him took this decision?

Suddenly, he remembered at the fact he was alone. He didn't spot Tsuna or Lambo or Reborn.

Snapping around, the faker reinforced his eyesight so hopefully, he can spot them.

"Tsuna!? Lambo!?" Kensuke called their names. "Reborn!?"

Echo from his shout and unnerving silence greeted him back.

No one was in the desolate land. No one but him.

A stressful sigh came as he counted from one to ten in order he can calmed himself. At he can confirmed one thing. Tsuna and Lambo still in the past, he was the only who teleported to future. Kensuke wasn't so sure with this. It's not a bad thing but it's also not a good thing. Before he got shot, he did see Gokudera, Yamamoto, Kyōko, and Haru running halfway toward Tsuna. Hopefully, nothing is going wrong while he figure the way home. As he was in the middle of his thoughts, it was until later he's a bit too late smelled it. A mixture of blood and salty water scent hit his sharp nose, greatly alarmed the reincarnated magus.

Widening his black orbs, Kensuke twisted his own body instinctively. His hand shot out, about grabbing his shinai. His hand reached for empty air, it was then Kensuke horrified. He didn't have Torashinai with him. Torashinai somehow lost from him. Gritting teeth in desperation, the magus moved out of the way when a blur of silver and black came across his vision. The next thing he knew, something sharp whizzed passed across his cheek. A sting of pain hit and Kensuke bit out the hiss escape from his mouth. It didn't take long before he felt a wet liquid turned out as blood, pouring from the freshly made cut. His charcoal orbs widened. He was being attacked! Before Kensuke could comprehend, the offender back again. Kensuke forced to aware that he can't stay idly. No time to think. So he did what he must for survive.

"Kuh! Trace On!"

.

FLASH!

.

CLANK!

.

A turquoise colored flash erupted, with a loud clank between metals followed soon after.

By the time the light has died out, Kanshō and Bakuya were in a dead lock with long switchblade that attached to the wrist of the offender.

Not an entirely favorable with the magus.

Whoever this person might be, he was capable to push Kensuke backward even the magus has reinforced his body nearly at the time he traced Kanshō and Bakuya.

The stand down allowed Kensuke take a closer look on his apparently offender.

Black colored eyes clashed with murderous, glaring greyish blue eyes.

"VOOOIIIIIIII!"

His offender screamed in Kensuke's ears.

It nearly deafened Kensuke and failed the magus' heart.

He half wished his offender wouldn't scream so loud.

It hurt his ears so much, he did think he will go deaf from the sheer of the loudness alone.

Unfortunately, his offender wasn't done yet with him.

"About time you get here, you piece of s***!" He continued, giving more pressure of his sword against the falchions. "What the h*** took you so long?! Do you have any idea how long we have to stand by in his s***ty place!? You dimwit―!"

Black and white uniform with white fur hood.

Long silver, almost white hair.

Framing an oval face, a low and threatening growl escaped from the twisted down lips.

Killing intent freely flooded, spoke his true intention. The boy who sensed the killer wave now cringed.

It was so clear this person was royally pissed off. He will not let this slipped out without Kensuke receive the end of it.

But that face.

He has seen this man before. But he was older from what he remembered.

It didn't help his memory wasn't good enough in memorizing people.

And on top of it, he didn't know the swordsman's name.

In which Kensuke spoke only one question represented his current feeling.

"…Who?"

Nobody moved. Nobody said anything.

A wind blew past the land, carrying brownish dust from earth.

The man shot him a spooky blank stare.

Kensuke stared back despite the hesitance deep inside.

Mentally he wondered why he felt as if he just woke up an angry dragon.

His inquiry answered soon.

Just not in the way he has anticipated when all hell broke loose.

"VOOOIIIIIIII―!"

Now the scream was louder by a magnitude.

When the white haired man attacked again in far greater speed, Kensuke was ready.

WHAM!

SLASH! CLANK!

CLANK!

CRANK! CLANK!

WHAM!

Exchanged blurry attacks, sparks created each time the blades of their swords clashed, accompanied their battle. The man kept attacking while Kensuke defended himself, parried and dodged and counterattacked. Wrist sword against twin Chinese falchions.

Inside, Kensuke was very confused beyond words.

Why was the man angry with him? He hasn't done anything infuriate so far. All he did was asked who the man was. So why this man after his blood like a bloodthirsty shark and kept swung his wrist sword, giving him no space or a time for an explanation whatsoever? An upward slash almost hit Kensuke should he not spun his body. While do so, the spellcaster aimed for a kick the man's side with his reinforced legs. Clicked tongue, the man dropped his body as flat as the ground as Kensuke missed his target.

"You are the most irritating, useless brat I've encountered! Go to hell!" Bending his body and dove forward, the furious man thrusting his sword for Kensuke's other leg.

His sword only successfully cut through empty air, a shadow flew past above Squalo.

A snarl escaped from his mouth the moment he aware his target already left the ground and soared in the air.

Twisting the body so he can land on the ground and keeping distance, the magus kept reasoned.

Stress lines marring his forehead already as they threatened to increase.

"I mean it! I don't even have the slightest idea what you are talking about!" Kensuke crossed Bakuya with the enraged swordsman's wrist sword for the umpteenth times.

CLANK!

"Oh yes! You do!" The man accused hotly, now looking more murderous.

CRANK!

"I'm not! What makes you think otherwise!?" Kensuke avoided another thrust from the side.

WHACK!

CLANK!

"Because you always acted like you're a moron when you do know things before I find out much later, stupid brat! You're always like 'Oh-it's-not-like it's-important-and they-need-to-know-so-why-should-I-tell-them'!" The man launched a mean hook at the magus which Kensuke barely made it.

"You. Always. Keep. And. Do. Stupid. Things. Before sh*t hit, Godda****! What are you, a f***ing Saint?! It's getting on my nerve and I've enough! Now stay still and let me cut you!"

Kensuke was completely speechless, mouth gaped in incredulity.

Did he hear it correctly thing the man has said?

Apparently yes.

"What―?!"

No, wait. That sounded not right. Just hold on a second.

Was he even acting the way the white haired man described!?

Because if someone asked him, he didn't feel that way!

He wasn't like that, was he!?

Kensuke couldn't retort by the time the snarled man already before him, sword poised none other for chop.

This time he jerked his head by the time the blade missed his jugular by a thin paper.

Knowing all his attempts in making the angry assassin listen has gone futile, the magus does what he must do.

He fights back, no more dodging and no more running. He fight back and he will not holding back.

His mission? Incapacitated his opponent before it's getting worse.

JRANK!

CLANK!

CRAAASH!

Hoo-boy. This is gonna be a long day for him.


Meanwhile on the line of the battle…

"Squalo. Dear." Lussuria shook his head, like an exasperated mother seeing her child bickering with his friend. "He's Mochida-kun who hasn't met you yet. Of course he will not recognize you."

If it was a whole different situation, Lussuria would've been very amused by the scene held before him.

Can't the Varia's Rain Guardian see how confused the kid was?

Indeed they gotten know each other in present but they properly introduced in Tsuna's Inheritance. There was no way this Kensuke will recognize Squalo. Laughing from Lussuria's side, sitting Belphegor played with his knives. Growing older and wiser the blonde was but his some of his demeanor remained the same if not unchanged even after 10 years.

"Shishishi. Didn't the sword peasant see us already before the Rings Battle? The prince agreed with Sharko. Let him do whatever he want with the sword peasant. " Belphegor stated this, his hand kept twisting one of the knives.

Levi harrumphed, shifting his position so he could a bit more at ease. "Serve him right."

Lussuria then gave them a chiding and disapproving stare.

Sometimes, they acted like they doesn't care at all but Lussuria knows better. They actually still angered with Kensuke from this era. Angered by his abrupt, violent death. It's not like he doesn't understand the feeling, the Crimson Guardian's tragic departure did hit everyone. They chopped his death in various ways. Even the Varia wasn't an exception. Belphegor secretly addicted with Kensuke's cooking and if he has both time and chance, he ordered the magus to make him foods equal of royalty. Levi roped the poor young man into help him with his paperwork when they were a little too much for the moustache man alone. Lussuria himself was close because both of them loved cooking and they always exchanged recipes.

Squalo…well, he always dragged Kensuke with Yamamoto for rigorous, even brutal trainings.

Snarky as he always does, Squalo does holding no small amount respect for both fellow swordsmen.

He held high regards for Yamamoto and Kensuke.

In which why when the news broke out, none of them will believe the Crimson Guardian has died.

Squalo included.

How can they?

It was utterly impossible.

This desolate ground was the proof how powerful he was. This barren land was the proof how he was more than he actually let on. Yet this was the same place where present Kensuke meet his death. This will be the first time they came after Kensuke's death. They were a given an important mission; retrieve teenage Kensuke from Millefiore's ruined base in Italy. It was the order given straight from the Vongola. There was no way Lussuria let this continue, no matter how amusing it was for watching Squalo vented and directed all his anger and pain toward the younger Kensuke.

Inevitably, both of Belphegor and Levi received the Varia Sun Guardian's scold.

"Mou, Bel-chan. You shouldn't have said that. Levi-kun, you too. You know he's good with sword even back when he was still so young. He's just need a proper training."

And wasn't it terrifying to think this skinny boy will grow up into a fearsome man?

That this Kensuke will grow as one hell swordsman?

An unstoppable warrior who responsible for wiped out Millefiore's Italy base by himself?

A ridiculously strong man created this wasteland with the cost of his own life?

"Ah." Their youngest member, Fran blinked in acknowledgement.

"What?" Levi snapped impatiently.

"Boss is gone."

Excluded the young Mist Guardian, everyone whipped out their heads at the throne chair where Xanxus sat supposedly.

Silence ensued when they found out the chair was devoid of person.

Whoops.

Uh-oh.

Good grief.

Just when the kick boxing fighter thought it couldn't get worse.

Lussuria sent a prayer and luck for the doomed magus.

Not even him can stop the wrath of fearsome Varia's leader.

Hopefully, Boss will not damage the unfortunate boy too far.

They still kind of need him and his strength after all.


Okay…

Fourth chapter finished. And with this, the Future Arc begins. So tired (fainted).

Please give me your thoughts, and reviews.