Great Big Blue Sky of Love

Chapter 7: Betrayal!

July 17, 2010

Katekyo Hitman Reborn and its characters belong to Akira Amano


Day 3...

On a very, early morning the Sawada household had a visitor. Nana opened the door and was greeted by a man that wanted to speak with Tsunami. Nana told the man to wait a moment and went upstairs to wake her daughter. Tsunami finally got out of bed with bullets spraying at her. Tsunami quickly went downstairs and answered the door.

"Good morning, Sawada-san. I am a messenger from the Bovino family and have a request."

"A request?" Asks Tsunami.

"We would like to retrieve Lambo-san's TYL-bazooka."

"You're taking the TYL-bazooka away?"

"Yes, Sawada-san."

"Uh, please give me a moment...er...ten minutes."

The Bovino messenger nods in understanding. Tsunami calls Lambo to the front door and Lambo cheerfully runs to her. There was bits of egg and something sticky on Lambo's face. Tsunami kneels down to his level.

"Um, Lambo, can I see your bazooka, please?"

"Huh...why?"

"Well, I think your family needs it. They want take it for awhile."

'Hopefully for good!' Thought Tsunami honestly.

"NO! IT'S MINE!"

Tsunami sighs and looks up to the sky. She brings her head down to look at Lambo and a thought comes to her. Tsunami picks up Lambo and kisses his now snotty nose. Lambo sniffs and perks up a little.

"C'mon, Lambo you don't really need it. I'll tell you what as a reward for being a good kid and handing over the bazooka I'll take you, Ipin and Fuuta on a field trip.

"A field trip! Where!"

"I don't know yet, but I promise I will take you!"

"Okay!"

Lambo leaps from her arms and pulls the bazooka out of his fro. Tsunami quickly reaches for it and carefully takes it away from him. She pats his head and opens the door to give to the messenger. Lambo looks at the messenger and waves from between Tsunami legs. The messenger bows to Tsunami.

"The Bovino family also would like to express their profound gratitude in caring and keeping Lambo."

'They better be!' Thought Tsunami behind her sweet smile. 'Bye, bye TYL-bazooka!'

Tsunami's week had been full of kisses, hugs and gifts as each of her guardians worked to bring her closer to one of them.

Hayato had made a pretty speedy recover from his multiple car accidents. But, for awhile he couldn't look Tsunami in the eye. Tsunami figured he had gone a little shy after he had given her a peck and she wonder...what would a real kiss feel like with Hayato.

What she didn't know was Hayato was just embarrassed by the "good" advice Shamal had given Hayato while at the nurse's office.

Takeshi was more affectionate than ever and he couldn't be any more obvious about it. He would smile so lovingly at her. He would sigh and his eyes would get all droopy. Takeshi loved to hug! Actually, his hugs were more like glomps. Sudden embraces out of the blue. He would be smiling at her for one second and suddenly swept her up into his long arms, pressing her face into his chest or neck. Takeshi also like to come up from behind Tsunami and hug her lifting her off the ground. Unfortunately, Hayato was in front of her one time and Tsunami was so surprised that her legs lifted into her chest. Her short school skirt flapped behind her and Hayato got a panty shot view. Hayato's nosebleed sent him stunned to the ground. When he recovered he begged for Tsunami's forgiveness and banged his head on the floor staining it with his forehead and nosebleed. Oh, and if Takeshi loved to hug...he relished in kissing. Like hugs he kissed her when he could. In the morning a peck on the lips or cheek. When he hugged her from behind a kiss to the back of her head, neck, hair or shoulder.

...what bothered her the most...was why didn't Hayato threatened to blow up Takeshi when he did those things. Hayato would of cursed up a storm at Takeshi doing whatever he wants and disrespecting the Tenth. But he didn't...he would just glare or look away. That wasn't normal...her intuition, whether it was her woman's or hyper-mode's, told her that something was off about this situation...but what?


Hibird was confused by his master Hibari's actions as of late.

Hibari was doing fine going through the proper rituals of courting the female Tsunami. He allowed the desired female to roam in his territory. He provided the female Tsunami shelter and protection from the verbal abuse of the other females and other males that had taken a sudden interest in Tsunami. Hibari had given her food too. To Hibird, his master was making it loud and clear that he wanted Tsunami.

Hibird was aware of his master's interest in the female Tsunami. In fact he approved of his master's choice. Tsunami had potential as a perfect mate indeed. She cared for three offspring that wasn't hers and they were happy and healthy. She was awre that Hibari was strong and was submissive and respectful to him. Tsunami herself was also strong which made Hibari happy. Their offspring would be strong and they will survive in this strange wildlife to create offspring of their own.

But what confused the little bird was Hibari allowing the other males that closely followed Tsunami to court her. When a male had a female they wanted it would fight off the female's suitors. Staking his claim by force of the female to be courted by him and him alone.

Hibird had to give the other males some credit though. They were strong. Very strong. But none as strong as Hibari, except perhaps the male with the dark aura...Hibird's feathers ruffle and he shook himself from his perch outside the office window.

The bell rings with the sun high over head. The feeding bell! Hibird thought it was strange that humans waited till the sound of the bell to go hunt for food...

Hibird took flight out the window and flew up to the roof. He landed above the door and waited. The door opens and Hibari's future female walks out on the roof. She was talking to the two males that were constantly with her.

The tall, laughing male was kind and gentle to Hibird. Hibird remember him feeding him when he had food at hand. But, as much as Hibird liked him he was crowding on something that belonged to his master. The tall male always rubbed his scent on Tsunami and holding her close. According to the laws of nature, Hibird thought the tall male was imprinting his scent on to Tsunami. This bold act was suppose to discourage other males from taking the female. Letting them know that she was off limits.

The other male was an aggressive one. He was only gentle to the female and growled and hissed at anything one or thing that got too close to her. He wasn't a good parent. He was always mistreating the loud, two-legged calf. He won't do! He just won't do at all. Tsunami only belonged to his master, Hibari!

Hibari pumped his wings and took off into the sky. The little bird climbed higher and higher keeping an eye on the three humans on the roof that had sat down and started eating their lunch. Hibird observes them making circles in the air. He positions himself in the air, folds his wings and dives!

At that moment Tsunami had looked up into the sky and saw a yellow little ball coming towards them getting faster and closer. Takeshi notices her gaze and looks up as well.

"What's up, Tsuna-chan?"

"...I think that's Hibird. Don't you think he coming in a bit too fast?"

"Hmmmm, yeah...hahaha maybe he's hungry and trying to get to us fast so we can feed him!"

"Che, who cares about Hibari's greedy, little puffball!"

"...he's not slowing down and he's still getting close."

"Don't worry, Tenth...he'll stop. Here, would you like to try my lunch, Tenth?"

"Eeehhh, Hayato-kun..."

"Yes, Tenth!"

"...Gokudera...I think you should..." Starts Takeshi.

"...HIIIIIIIIIE!"

DING!

"WHAT THE HELL!" Screams Hayato gripping the back of his head in pain.

Hibird swiftly snaps his wings open and was back into the air flying away. Takeshi held his stomach laughing hard. Tsunami was staring at Hayato in shock.

"Hayato-kun! Are you all right!"

"What the hell...that hurt! That stupid, freaking bird hit me in my freaking head!"

Takeshi laughed and laughed.

"SHUT UP YOU FREAK!"

"HAHAHAHA...I'm sorry...HA...Gokudera...I'm really...HAHA..."

DING!

"OW!" Takeshi yelps and grabs the side of his head with one hand.

Hayato points and laughs. "Hahaha! OW! What the ...OW! OW! DAMMIT! OW!"

Hibird pecks and scratches at Hayato and alternates between him and Takeshi. Tsunami watches the scene quietly completely bewildered. The pecking and scratching grew too much for Takeshi and Hayato. They couldn't swat at the bird in fear of hurting Hibird and incurring Hibari's wrath. Plus, the ding to their heads really hurt and the pecking and scratching were painful! They make a run for it their food flying everywhere and their drinks being knocked over and spilling over the roof floor. They run inside and Hibird lands over the door.

Several minutes went by.

Tsunami sat by herself with a mess of food that was abandon by her two friends staring at Hibird. Hibird stares back and fluffs his feathers up cutely as if asking, "did I do good?". Tsunami continues to stares at him.

The door opens with a slow creak. Hibird hisses that could make a cat to run in fear.

The door slams quickly shut.


As promised, Tsunami paid a visit to watch Ryohei practice afterschool that day. The match was coming up pretty soon and he and his small team of boxers were participating. Ryohei would wave at her and helped to seat to watch him coach his team. He was good teacher and a little rough with his teammates. But his loyal members were encouraged by Ryohei's fighting spirit so it made Tsunami happy for Ryohei that he had some members.

Ryohei gave his team some extreme words of encouragement and dismissed them for the day.

A few of Ryohei's upper-classmates came to see how he was doing and saw Tsunami.

"Hey, Sasegawa? Is that her? Sawada Tsunami a.k.a, 'No-Good Tsunami'?" One of the asked.

"That's Tsunami-chan...and don't call her that, Houji! She isn't no-good. She's an extreme girl!"

"Heh, easy!" The student holds his hand up in surrender. "I'm just repeating the name that I heard, that's all."

"I heard that she sucks at nearly everything! Except cooking. But nobody mentioned how cute she was!"

"Easy, Kiko, I'm afraid you have to go through Sasegawa! He wants her to be his girlfriend."

"Yeah, I know, Tomaru...but I heard that even the discipline committee's head president wants Tsunami too!"

The group shivers at the thought of the perfect and looked at Ryohei in admiration for his guts to compete with him. Ryohei doesn't pay any attention to their fear or admiration. He was too busy looking at Tsunami. Tsunami turns her gaze on him and blushes at his stare. He smiles.

"Hey, Sasegawa, I have an idea! You want more members for your club right?"

"Extremely! Do you know someone!" Ryohei yells.

"No...But, I know a way you can attract members. Why don't you ask Tsunami to the boxing club's manager and mascot?"

"Manager...mascot? What do you mean! What does that have to do with boxing?"

Tomaru and the others sigh and shake their heads. Tomaru puts his hands on Ryohei's shoulder.

"Listen, Ryohei. You are friends with a cute girl! Her classmates and others in their grade that know Tsunami are so use to seeing her as useless..."

Ryohei growls and raises a fist.

"Hey, hey, hey! Let me finish! I'll get to the point...Tsunami is cute! Very cute, EXTREMELY cute! If she joins your club as a manager/mascot she can help you get members by being her cute self! She can also give moral support by helping you and the others out with cleaning, making sure you have water and towels and stuff. When people start seeing her around the club they would want to join because of her."

The other classmates nod their heads in agreement.

"Oh man! Can you imagine her in one of those sexy, short sports dresses you see at boxing matches and car races on TV!"

The boys fantasize. Ryohei stares. Scratches his head with his glove and frowns.

"I extremely don't get it..." The classmates collapse. "...hey, wait a minute...you mean you want me to use Tsunami!"

"No, well...yeah, but the way you're saying it makes it seem horrible!"

"I extremely don't want members to join this club just because Tsunami-chan is! I want members who love to box and like a challenge TO THE EXTREME!"

"Aww, Ryohei, c'mon! At least let her join for moral support to your team. Sometimes they aren't as optimistic as you are. They could use a girl's touch around here you know."

"Well...Tsunami-chan...does get me extremely pumped. When I see her...I know I can do anything! I can do anything just because she there for me! Maybe...maybe she could help out around here. Heh, I extremely wanted her to join the boxing team anyway! She's an EXTREMELY good fighter!"

The boys blanch. "Eh? You already asked her to join...but as a fighter...RYOHEI ARE YOU NUTS!"

"Ryohei-kun?"

"Oh! HI, TSUNAMI!"

Tsunami winces at the volume of his voice but smiles. The classmates decided to head home and give Ryohei and Tsunami some space. They grin at her and slap Ryohei's back as they departed.

"So the match is really soon? Who are you fighting?" Asks Tsunami.

"A team that calls themselves the Fire Tigers. They're a school from a different neighborhood. They have an EXTREMELY large team of up to fifteen people!"

"Eh! It's that big?"

"EXTREMELY!"

"But, Ryohei-kun, you only have eight people on your team!"

"Do you want to extremely join then!" Ryohei yells with hope.

"...Ryohei-kun..."

"Wait not as a boxer...even thought that would be EXTREMELY EXTREME...but, maybe you should join the team as our extreme manager!"

"Manager...mascot?" Tsunami frowns. "No...no...no you don't want someone like me! I'll mess things up!"

"You'll be EXTREMELY great! You inspire me to do my best to the EXTREME! I want you to help my team out and they could be inspired to EXTREME! Just you being there would be enough for me..."

"Actually that's not a bad idea!"

Tsunami freezes at the tiny voice. They turn to see Reborn as Elder Pao Pao.

"So, you want Tsunami to be your manager and mascot?" Reborn...Elder Pao Pao asks him.

Tsunami's eyes widen and she looks at Ryohei.

"What's a mascot?...and what do they do?"

"Er...well...I extremely don't know!" Said Ryohei.

"Manager helps the team and makes sure they are well taken care of. Also as a mascot you give them moral support at their events and encourage them to win." Reborn explained. "Sometimes you wear a sexy outfit..."

"HUH!"

"But...you don't have to, Tsunami! I don't want you to join and feel like I'm using you."

"...but...if I can join...the boxing team as a manager and a mascot I can help you the best way I can. It's the least I can do. You've done so much for me this could be how I can return the favor, Ryohei-kun." Tsunami replies.

Ryohei stares at Tsunami. He puts his hands on her shoulders.

"Tsunami...you're...the EXTREME."

"Ryohei-kun..."

"Not so fast!" Said Elder Pao Pao.

Tsunami and Ryohei turn to him surprise. Tsunami more so. Reborn's voice was normal to any other person. But Tsunami heard something in his voice. Annoyance...?

"You have to defeat me first, Ryohei!"

"Eh!" Cries Tsunami.

"Yosh! I'll defeat you to the EXTREME, Elder!"

"Eh! Ryohei-kun...you don't have to I..."

"It's okay, Tsunami. I'll win!"

"But..."

"Let us begin, Ryohei."

Ryohei and Reborn stood in the ring. Tsunami watches on the side. What was going on? Usually in situations like this it's her against Reborn or somebody else. Why was Reborn challenging Ryohei about being Ryohei's manager? It didn't make since!

Reborn knows how to box? Tsunami thought to herself.

Reborn indeed. Reborn knew how to box. Which shouldn't be too much of a surprise to Tsunami. Tsunami watched amazed how Reborn dart about Ryohei. Darting everyone of his jobs. Ryohei was impressed to and was getting excited. He was now yelling to "the extreme". Tsunami was beginning to worry. There was no way. No way that Ryohei could defeat Reborn. Reborn ducked under a jab and moved forward striking Ryohei in the gut. Tsunami gasps and covers her mouth as Ryohei went down on one knee clutching his stomach.

"Extreme...good hit..." Ryohei chokes. He then grins and slowly gets to his feet.

"Ryohei-kun!"

Ryohei looks at Tsunami and grins.

"Don't worry! I'm fine!"

"You haven't landed a hit on me not once. You're in a bad position. Give up on the idea of making Tsunami your manager and mascot."

"I want quit! Never have...never will...EXTREME JAB!"

Reborn merely leans his head to the side.

"So stubborn. You have a match coming up don't you? I can seriously injure you and you won't be able to fight."

Ryohei frowns at that.

"You don't need to worry, Elder! I'll be fine for the match! This for Tsunami. I can do anything with Tsunami with me. If I break my arm so be it! I will still fight knowing that Tsunami will there for me!"

Reborn's smile falters for a second.

Ryohei was getting worn out and he had a few bruises and cuts. Tsunami whimpers. Reborn was giving him a good beating. Tsunami clutches her hands together.

"Ryohei-kun..."

"EXTREME FINAL BLOW!"

Tsunami could see a flicker of his dying will. Reborn saw it too and raises a glove catching Ryohei's fist. He smirks at Ryohei and flips him out of the ring.

"That's enough. You win."

Ryohei is thrown against the wall and it creates a slight crater. Tsunami rushes to Ryohei's side.

"Ryohei-kun! Ryohei-kun!"

Ryohei looks at Tsunami and wipes a bit of blood from his face. "...what's with that face...you look like you're going to cry...I can stand it when a girl cries..."

Ryohei goes unconscious and Tsunami yells his name.

Tsunami spent the rest of her time in the boxing club training taking care of Ryohei. She had cleaned his wounds replaced his wrappings. She had a wet towel and was wiping over the scar he received when he was young protecting Kyoko. Tsunami sighs and with a finger gently traces it.

"Ryohei-kun, you're so...extreme."

Ryohei snorts and smiles.


That evening, Mukuro came for another nightly visit. Mukuro visited Tsunami on nights Hayato and Takeshi didn't study with her or were busy with other things. Tsunami supposes that during the day he had Chrome conserve her energy so he can use her to appear at night.

Tsunami was studying with Reborn when she felt a long, thin stroke from her knee to her hip. She squeaks and Reborn stares at Tsunami. He frowns.

"Mukuro."

"Kufufufu."

Tsunami gasps again and whimpers.

Thus the game of "hide and touch" began.

Mukuro used his illusion to make himself invisible and would poke and grope her wherever she was. Tsunami would be either doing her homework...like she was with Reborn and suddenly feel a cold presence and fingers caressing her thighs.

Or, when she was helping her mother with dinner she could feel his arms hands rest on her hips and slide up and down her sides...her mother gave her strange looks but would laugh it off thinking her daughter was just dancing and swinging her hips!

He finally went too far when she felt his presence while she was taking a bath. She screamed...and bullets were fired...

"Goodness, Reborn-chan was running around the house with his toy gun. Maybe I should switch his espresso to decaffeinated coffee."

Tsunami gives her mother a nervous expression.

"Don't mind Reborn, mama. "

It was quiet now in the home. The children were tucked into bed. Nana was asleep, smiling and dreaming of her beloved husband. It took a little longer for Reborn to fall asleep a little irritated by Mukuro's harassment of his student. He finally relaxed and a tiny bubble grew from his nose. Tsunami laid in her bed. Her face pinched. Her fingers release and tighten the sheets.

A chuckle floats through the room and Mukuro appears in a misty vapor over Tsunami. He was smiling.

"Kufufufu, having a nightmare of Reborn torturing you again, Lady Vongola?"

Tsunami rolls onto her back and starts gasping in her sleep. Sweat lightly developed on her skin. Mukuro frowns at this. This wasn't a typical nightmare.

"Vongola?"

"Please...please...oh god, please..."

Her heads tosses from side to side and cries out softly. What nightmare, an nightmare that she wasn't able to wake up from.

Mukuro holds her cheek and presses his forehead to hers. He dives into her mind...

Mukuro opens his eyes and looks around. Red, the scene was red as blood. It was also cold so very cold. He hears a scream.

Tsunami.

Mukuro quickly moves in the direction of the scream. He realizes that he was ankle deep in a red liquid. He stops for a moment and looks at his reflection on the red surface. He knew what it was. Blood. He hears her scream again and steps forward only to hit something with his foot. His eyes widen at the sight of Kyouya...Kyouya's eyes were dull and dark. He was dead. He looks up and sees Tsunami on her knees with her back towards him hunched over. Her shoulders shook with deep intake of breath and sobs. Around her he saw the other guardians lying dead. He even saw himself in the arms of Chrome. He quickly turn his head away from the scene and walks to Tsunami. As he approached her he knew what he was seeing. This is one of Tsunami's fears. The death of the one's she holds most dear. He was at last directly behind her and her sobbing was wretched. She was holding something in her arms. On one side he saw a familiar cow tail and on the other...a hat with a orange band floating in the blood. He suddenly jerks and pulls out his trident as the sound of voices laughing and cruel chuckling. He sees seven familiar figures in the shadows. Byakuran and his six Funeral Wreaths. He frowns at them and then down at his weeping boss.

"Lady Vongola...are you still worried about them. You needn't fear them anymore...they are gone now."

Mukuro takes his trident and gently touches the tip to the surface of the blood. A ripple forms and spreads away from the tip. The figures of their enemies waver and disappear. A blue sky appears over them like a flick of a light floor explodes with flowers of many colors and kinds and green grass grew. Tsunami gasps and is knocked back on her hands as Lambo, now alive, laughs that ridicolous laugh and runs away. Reborn picks up his hat, dusts some invisible lint off it and places it on his head mumbling her nickname and coolly walks away. There is laughter and shouting as the rest of the guardians interacted with each other their usual way. Hayato growling at a laughing Takeshi and Ryohei screaming into the sky to the EXTREME. Kyouya stood a great distance and held his hand out to let Hibird land in his hand and the bird sings. Chrome sat on the grass making a daisy chain. She looks up at Tsunami runs up to her and places the chain of flowers onto Tsunami's head. Chrome looks up at Mukuro smiling and runs away. Mukuro picks Tsunami up from the ground and twirls her around to face him. Mukuro was wearing black pants and a white long-sleeved shirt. Tsunami's big brown eyes look up at his dual-colored eyes. He held her close into his arms and Tsunami slowly wraps her arms around his waist. Tears form at the corners of her eyes and she buries her face into his chest.

"Thank you...thank you...thank you...thank you..."

Mukuro smiles, a real one and kisses the top of her head in reply.

Reborn stared at the sight of the morning. Leon crawled from under his night cap and unto Reborn's shoulder. The chameleon flicks his tongue onto Reborn's cheek. Reborn doesn't acknowledge it. He continues to stare.

Tsunami held Mukuro close to him. She was sleeping with a serene calmness in her face. Reborn had never seen a such a peaceful expression on Tsunami's face since their return from the future. Reborn was aware of the nightmares Tsunami had. They came and went. She would wake up from the nightmares in the middle of the night or won't wake up at all and toss and turn for hours. Tsunami made sure to hide her near dead expression very well in the mornings. Reborn didn't ask her what she'd dreamed about. Reborn had a feeling he knew what she was dreaming about. She would cry out his name and her guardians...not to leave her...please, don't die...

But last night, someone saved her. Mukuro. Mukuro must had used his abilities to erase the nightmare and gave Tsunami comfort.

Tsunami shows signs of waking and Reborn lies back down to feign sleep creating a snot bubble. Tsunami moans and slowly opens her eyes. At the same time, her movement rouses Mukuro from his sleep and they open their eyes fully and stare at each other. Mukuro brushes her hair out of her face.

"Good morning, Lady Vongola."

"Good morning, Mukuro." Tsunami blushes but smiles.

"Kufufufu."

Mukuro kisses her lips.

"Arrivederci...I'm a little tired from keeping those nightmare at bay. Can Chrome stay here for awhile?"

"Of course she can."

Tsunami places a hand on the side of face with his red eye.

"Sometimes...I forget..." Tsunami blushes redder. "I forget that 'you' are not here that you are using a illusion over Chrome's body. She's...she's not going to be falling for me...is she?"

Mukuro's eyes widen and his eyebrows reaches his hairline. He snorts and snickers.

"I assure you, Vongola...Chrome isn't experiencing our little rendezvous, so she wouldn't feel attracted to you! Kufufufufu!"

Tsunami stares at Mukuro. "It's not fair, that even though you...like me a lot...you're not truly experiencing being with me, are you? That's not fair...I wish I can..."

"Shhhhh, Vongola..."

"But..."

"Shhhh, shhhh, there's is nothing you can do."

"There must be something!"

"There isn't."

"There must be."

Mukuro sees her dying will flame in her eyes flickering with determination. He shakes his head.

"I'll take what I can get, Tsunami. I do feel something. I..."

Tsunami's eyes widen. "Mukuro...?"

Mukuro smashes their lips together. They kiss for a few mintues until Mukuro rolls off her with a sigh and switches places with Chrome. Chrome moans and a looks at Tsunami with a sleepy eye.

"Are you...all right...boss?"

"Yes, thanks to Mukuro and you. Get some sleep, Chrome-chan. You need it."

Chrome nods her head and instantly falls asleep. Tsunami gets up from bed and covers Chrome with her blanket. She smiles sweetly.

'There must be something...there must be a way.'


Day 5

Tsunami began her duties as the manager of the boxing club. It seems Reborn was able to find a way to train Tsunami in almost every she did in everyday life. Reborn told Tsunami that it was good training to manage a small organization before she taking on a bigger organization of the mafia. Tsunami exclaimed to Reborn that she was managing a club not a organization. However, she realized that being a manager was pretty tough. She had a looked around the club and saw how neglected the boxing club was. The equipment was worn out and funds were as small as the number of members in the club. Tsunami didn't know where to begin until Reborn suggested that Tsunami ask her right-hand, Hayato to help her prepare. Taking his advice, Hayato was asked...Hayato immediately set to work helping her organize the club. He went over what was needed: equipment, forms, and even a budget plan. They were unsure how to raise funds but would think of something later. Hayato yelled at Ryohei for being so disorganized. With Hayato guidance, Tsunami fell into her role as manager. She was a helpful hand around the club afterschool making sure the team got water and took breaks. She often reminded Ryohei to give himself and his team a break.

"Tsunami, is true that you have become the manager of the boxing club."

"Uh...yes. It is."

"How often do you participate in his club?"

Tsunami was pulled out of class by Kyouya during a break session. Takeshi held Hayato back when Tsunami was called out by Kyouya.

"Uh, I help out afterschool mostly."

"Hmm." Kyouya thinks for a moment. "Tsunami, I have a position for you. You are to be discipline committee's secretary."

"S-secretary!"

"We could use someone to organize the files and to run small errands. I need as many of my members to keep the peace around the school as possible. One or two members are capable in doing so. We can use a more less involved member to handle the small things. You will start next week."

Kyouya left no room for her to protest and he walks away. Tsunami watches him go and bows her head with a deep sigh. Her workload just grew again...

"Ah, ah, ah, not so fast, Hibari."

"The Baby."

"Ciassou. Sorry, I can't let Tsunami join you unless you beat me in a challenge."

Kyouya smirks. "Oh?"

Reborn smirks as well.

Tsunami sighs.


Reborn had Tsunami and Kyouya meet him in the downtown area after school.

Downtown directly after school was when the city was at his busiest. Students from other schools were loud as they hurried their way to their favorite hangouts or home. Adults and others walked, talked, shouted, laughed, chewed gum...Tsunami never realized how noisy downtown was. She looks at Kyouya. He face shows his indifference but Tsunami had a feeling he was getting irritated with the noisy crowd among crowds.

"Let's get started shall we?"

"Here, Reborn?"

"Yes. All Hibari has to do is find me and he will win. That's all."

"Reborn, it's too crowded for that!"

"Ready Hibari?" Reborn ignores Tsunami.

Kyouya nods his head and pulls his tonfa out. Reborn turns and calmly walks away. Kyouya follows after him. Tsunami follows after Kyouya and hopes that nobody gets hurt.

As Kyouya goes through the sea of bodies, some people had enough sense to get out of the perfect's way...immediately. But not many people were that aware and would bump into him. Kyouya would give them a fierce glare and they back off, wisely holding their tongue. Tsunami notice that Kyouya was tensed and as try as he may to find Reborn...distracted. Was the crowds?

"I see you!" Said Reborn and gives Kyouya a kicked to the side of the head.

Kyouya stumbles and bumps into a person. He nearly decks the man out and the man falls back on his rear staring up at the boy shorter than him with fright.

"Kyouya-san!" Tsunami shouts.

Reborn hops onto Tsunami shoulders.

"Kyouya has a weakness."

"W-what! He does?"

"Agoraphobia."

"A..ago...what?"

"Agoraphobia: the fear of being in crowds or public places. Usually starts an anxiety attack. Hibari uses his power, strength to gain control of crowds and clear areas. When he attacks a crowd of people he covering up his anxiety of being in a crowd."

"Kyouya-san...is afraid?"

"Everyone, even the most powerful people in this world has a flaw. No one is invincible, remember that Tsunami."

Reborn hops off of Tsunami's shoulder and disappears into the crowd again. Tsunami watches Kyouya. He was getting frustrated, and a frustrated Kyouya was a very dangerous Kyouya. With what she learn from Reborn about Kyouya's fear...it would come to a point when he would proceed to clear the area and cause a disaster in downtown Namimori. Tsunami runs up to Kyouya and without thinking wraps her arms around to his front and covers his eyes.

"Tsunami!"

"Is that better? You don't see the people, Kyouya-san."

Kyouya doesn't reply. He was shocked by Tsunami's actions. Her body pressed against his back. Her hands covered his eyes. With Tsunami being so near, he felt his body relax. How did she do that? When was she able to that? Perhaps...perhaps his body recognizes Tsunami as being of peace. Kyouya was able to fully relax and nap on the roof with Tsunami's presence on the days she skipped afternoon classes to avoid the scrutiny of her classmates. She had been doing that a lot since the other herbivores confessed their love to her. Her classmates, mostly female, held it against her. Kyouya lowered his tonfa and takes a breath.

"I am calm, Tsunami."

"That's good. Can you find him?"

Kyouya takes another deep breath and closes his eyes behind her hands. Tsunami moves her hands and covers his ears to drown out the noise. Kyouya was able to focus now. He takes Tsunami's hand and pulls him with him through the crowd. Tsunami looks down at their hands and grips his hand giving him a light squeeze. Kyouya doesn't look back at her. They reach the train station and find Reborn waiting for Kyouya at the entrance. He smiles.

"Hmm, well done. Even though you had a little help."

"You know that wasn't really fair, Reborn. But, that's normal."

Kyouya makes no complaints.

"Tsunami is to be my secretary then."

"Yes. Being your secretary would also be good training for her. A boss will have to juggle negotiations and be able to please different families at the same time."

Kyouya nods and turns to Tsunami.

"Next week, during the lunch period and once a week after school. Sasegawa Ryohei can deal without you for a least one day. There is a student council meeting that I will be attending. You will accompany me."

"I will be there, Kyouya-san."


Nana gave Tsunami a list that she received from student with a gangster hairstyle. Nana asked Tsunami if she owed money to someone. Tsunami took the list and read it her eyes growing wide.

"...the standard attire of a secretary of the discipline committee?"


Day 10

Bianchi had several solid, black hair clips in her mouth. She takes one and clips down the last of Tsunami's spiky hair down to her head. Her hair was pulled together into a tight bun but left two strands of hair hang over the front of her shoulders. Lambo and Ipin played with multicolored hair clips and putting them into each other's hair. Lambo mostly though. Tsunami's hand picks up a pair of non-prescription glasses that were bought from the corner store. They were small and oval-shaped lenses and were a simple brown color.

Nana and Reborn sat at the table when they looked up to see Tsunami coming down the stairs. Nana squeals and claps her hands.

"Oh, Tsuna-chan~! You look so grown up! Like a college girl!"

Tsunami was in her normal school uniform but with some additional changes. Instead of the white knee-length socks she wore she now wore black stockings. Her hair was put into a bun and thanks to Bianchi her spiky top of hair was brushed back with water, gel and black hair clips. It took Bianchi awhile to find the right gel to lay her nearly untamable spike to lay down. Tsunami couldn't count how many times other brands of gel was washed out of her hair. She had placed the glasses on and would every once in awhile push them back up her nose that was pink along with cheeks with a blush. Bianchi tried to apply makeup on her but that was where Tsunami drew the line. Bianchi came downstairs behind her and crosses her arms.

"You should of let me put some makeup on."

"No thanks, you done enough Bianchi-san."

Bianchi shrugs.

"Good work, Bianchi. Tsunami looks like a professional."

Bianchi blushes and smiles lovingly at Reborn for his praise and asks for a kiss. Reborn promptly falls asleep. Bianchi just giggles at his actions.

Hayato and Takeshi mouths fell open at Tsunami's new look. They looked her up and down. Tsunami fidgets under their gazes.

"I look silly don't I?"

"No, Tenth! You look amazing!"

"R-really?"

Hayato nods his head. Inwardly he was making MANLY fanboy squeals at the glasses on her face. Mentally giggling how smart and attractive it made her.

Takeshi smiles.

"I think I like your hair up!" He leans down and kisses her neck.

Tsunami squeaks and grabs her neck.

"You can see how nice your neck is and I can kiss it without eating hair!"

Hayato growls at Takeshi for being so bold with his affections, but he agreed with Takeshi that it did reveal her lovely neck a little more...it made him want to kiss it too.

"What's with the change away?" Takeshi ask as they walk to school.

"If the Tenth wants to change her looks than you don't have to question it, baseball nut!"

"W-well, this is what Kyouya-san wanted me to wear. Starting today I am the Discipline Committee's secretary."

"Wow, a secretary?" He looks up at the sky and his mind wonders and a slight blush comes across his face.

Tsunami wonders what Takeshi was thinking...as predicted Hayato got mad and went on at how dare Kyouya give Tsunami such a demeaning position!

In class Kyoko and Hana were impressed with Tsunami new look.

"Wow, Tsunami-chan! You look like an adult! You're so pretty!"

"Yeah, you do look a little bit mature." Said Hana but she frowns down at her and stares.

Tsunami pulls back from her.

"W-what is it?" Tsunami asks.

"I think there's something missing from the look though..." Said Hana.

"Tsunami-chan, we should go shopping and try on clothes together."

"Shopping! Clothes!" Tsunami wasn't much of a fan of clothes shopping.

Tsunami was doing her best to ignore the glares of the female students and leers of the male students. It seems as the days goes by, more and more guys were trying to be friendly with her while more and more girls were becoming her enemies, except for nice girls like Kyoko and Hana couldn't care less if the other boys liked her or not.

"Ah, I know what it is."

Hana goes to her bag and pulls out lip gloss. Tsunami flinches away from it as if it was rapid dog.

"Eh! I don't want it...HIIIIE!"

Hana gives her a dangerous glare. Unfortunately for Tsunami, Hana was less relenting than Bianchi was this morning. With a sigh Tsunami allows Hana to apply the baby pink lip gloss. Hayato and Takeshi watch with attentiveness. Tsunami's lips part away from each other and open. Hana slowly touches the lip gloss onto the upper lip from the corner and leaves behind a pink wet sheen as it strokes to the other corner.

Hayato gulps and feels the air become a little warm.

Hana smoothly touches the corner of the bottom lip and strokes to the other side. The bottom lip was the most plumpest part and it the lip gloss sank into it a little for its softness. Hana commands Tsunami to rub her lips together and Tsunami does so and relaxes with a pouty expression.

Takeshi lips his lips.

"Blah, it tastes funny." Said Tsunami. "And is it suppose to feel so heavy?"

"Ah, quit your complaining. You look a lot mature now...and even a little sexy."

"I don't think sexy is standard."

"Sheesh, you sound like Hibari!" Said Hana.

"Gokudera-kun? Yamamoto-kun? Are you two okay?" Asks Kyoko.

The girls looks at the two boys close by. They were dazed, as well as a few other male students. Hana sighs and shakes her head with her hands out in defeat.

"Boys."


While Tsunami's class went to gym class, Tetsuya came to the class and picked Tsunami up for the meeting. Tetsuya hardly recognize Tsunami and had to blush a little at her appearance. Tsunami asked him if it was too much but Tetsuya didn't think so.

"I guess I should tell you a little how the discipline committee works, Sawada-san. As you know, the discipline committee was formed by Hibari-san himself to keep the peace at Namimori. We the member work alongside of him to enforce the school rules and punish those that disobey them so those rules won't be broken again."

At this point, Tsunami thought how Reborn were twist this information to her training. According to Reborn, the mafia was formed as its own government to protect the people from those who try to take advantage of people less fortunate than others.

"Hibari-san goes to the student council meetings and to hear what upcoming events would need the discipline committee's presence, give them our progress report and sometimes Hibari-san would make demands or payment for his service."

Tsunami arches a brow looking up at Tetsuya. Tetsuya sees her expression and smiles shrugging.

"Hey, how else do you think the committee earns their funds."

'You get funded by yakuza and local residence of Namimori!' Thought Tsunami.

"At least Hibari-san shows some respect to those who are...supposedly higher than him. He realizes there are rules for even him to honor and respect to avoid unnecessary chaos."

There was something about Tetsuya's last sentenced that nagged at her a little.

Kyouya meets them outside the student council office. Hibari looks over Tsunami appearance and grins.

"Wao."

Tsunami reddens violently. Kyouya gave her a compliment out loud! Tetsuya turns his head so he wouldn't smile. Hibird was sitting on Kyouya's shoulder chirps and flutters up to sit on Tsunami's shoulders. He chirps her name and nuzzles her. Tsunami tilts her head and rubs him back. Her arm was pulled up and Tsunami looks at Kyouya to see him pin an armband around her arm similar to his. It read "secretary". Tetsuya, once his face was neutral, gives Tsunami a notepad and a pen. Kyouya nods at Tetsuya that he was dismissed and he and Tsunami enter the room.

The student council inside freeze up when Kyouya entered. But they were surprise when Tsunami entered after him. The male members' eye bugged out of their head at Tsunami's appearance. Tsunami closes her eyes and tries to ignore them as Kyouya motions her to sit beside him. A female member in Tsunami's grade points at her.

"What is she doing here?"

"She's my secretary. Is there a problem?" Kyouya narrows his eyes at her.

The girl quickly shakes her head no and the they all settled as the meeting began.


Reborn was becoming frustrated with his student, Tsunami. The five guardians that were in love with had done nothing but shower Tsunami with love and affection in their own personal way and style no matter how many times Reborn had shot at them, trapped them and tricked them they didn't give up in their pursuit of their boss's love. Even though Reborn enjoyed torturing them and it was good training for them he getting tired of seeing them get their award with their beloved boss. Seeing them holding her...whispering to her...kissing her...

It wasn't fair.

Reborn looks at his infant hands.

What boggled his mind that grew onto his frustration was Tsunami herself. The only growth he seen was the guardians' love to her. But what of Tsunami's feelings. He sees it when they are with her individually. She adapts herself to them and receives their love with open arms. She showed that she cared for each one of her guardians and no guardian was better than the other. Was this because of her attribute as the sky? Reborn wasn't sure...or was it that he didn't want that to be the answer. What's the point in seeing her accept all her guardians love...when his...

Reborn growls to himself. That no-good student of his...she truly was...that oblivious klutz had stumbled into his heart...OKAY! Reborn admits it! He was jealous! He was jealous of the kind smiles, the warm embraces, the softness in her eyes and her words of encouragement that she gives to those guardians. He couldn't help but imagine the sensations they felt when their lips enveloped hers.

He needed to end this. It was pointless for them to compete any further. To be honest...this event wasn't his style and from what Reborn seen there was no contest. Tsunami, whether she knew it or not, was in love with all of them.

Lucky them.


Day 15

Nana was in the mood for sushi...again. So she bounced around her daughter to get her to get some sushi from Takeshi's place.

"Mama, you're starting to act shameless when it comes to sushi. I don't like getting free sushi when Takeshi and his dad work so hard in making it for us!"

Nana just laughs it off.

"Yamamoto-kun loves making sushi for you! He likes you a lot."

Tsunami blushes and sighs. Nana touches her cheek with her finger in thought.

"In fact, a lot of cute boys like you lately. Gokudera-kun has been nuts for you for a long time. He follows you around like a lovesick puppy...then there's that really, really cute boy with the neat eyes. I haven't seen him for awhile though. My what decision you're going to have to make when you have to make a choice."

Tsunami looks down and fiddles her shirt.

"Mama, can I ask you something?"

"Why, of course, Tsuna-chan."

"Well, it's about boys. You know that Hayato, Takeshi and...Mukuro like me. There's two other boys that like me too and...I can't make a decision."

"Is it because they are all so nice?" Asks Nana.

"...It's more of...I don't want to choose, Mama." Tsunami blushes.

Nana watches her daughter with a wide-eyed expression.

"I don't want to hurt the others if I choose one. I think it's better that I don't choose anyone."

Nana smiles and puts a hand under her daughter's chin making her look up.

"When it comes to matters of the heart, Tsunami, just think this, 'what ever makes you happy'."

"That sounds to simple!"

"Maybe cause you're making it too complicated, Tsuna-chan. You and I both know you can't handle anything too complicated."

Tsunami deadpans at her mother and turns to the front door.

"I'll go get you some sushi."

"GYAHAHAHA! Lambo-san is coming with you!"

Lambo points at her and leaps on her chest and clings to the front of her shirt.

"Yes, why don't you take Lambo with you. He could use some fresh air."

"Fine."

Tsunami leaves with Lambo onto the sidewalk and up and around the corner. A taxicab passes them by and turns the corner to stop and park in front of house.

"I'm cancelling the event. It's pointless to go any further."

The guardians stare at Reborn. Hayato, Ryohei had the most extreme expression on their faces. Takeshi blinks in surprise and Kyoya and Mukuro's face stay the same. One indifferent the other smirking.

"What do you mean 'it's pointless to go any further'?" Asks Hayato.

"Yeah, why kid? "

"There are no winners...nor are there losers."

"I EXTREMELY don't get it!"

"Me neither." Said Takeshi.

"Perhaps, Reborn you should stop talking in riddles and gives us a real reason in canceling the event." Said Mukuro.

Tsunami arrives at Takesushi and is greeted by Tsuyoshi. Tsuyoshi grins widely at her.

"Hello, Tsunami! As pretty as I last saw you, hahaha!"

Tsunami blushes.

"Hello, Yamamoto-san! My mom has taste for sushi tonight. I guess I should order for the whole family."

"Coming right up, Tsunami. I'll give you a discount!" Before Tsunami could protest. "Oh, Takeshi and your friends are in the dojo. You should go say high to them."

Tsunami blinks. They were all here? What could they be doing?

"Thanks, Yamamoto-san. I'll go say 'hi' then."

"She's in love with all of us?" Asks Takeshi.

Reborn nods. "Yes, as far as I can see you all are on equal footing when it comes to Tsunami caring for you. But I don't think Tsunami herself is aware that she has feelings for you all..."

"Wow..." Takeshi said in amazement.

"Can that really happen?" Asks Hayato. "It just sounds...unreal. Are you sure she can just love one of us?"

"I won't accept that. I have no intention of sharing Tsunami with the likes of you." Said Kyouya.

"For once, I agree with Kyouya. There's no one in the world who's heart can be that huge to take in several lovers."

"Come now," Reborn tugs his fedora down his face. 'These brats...don't they realize they all have a good chance in being with Tsunami...how ungrateful...what I wouldn't give!' "This is Tsunami we're talking about. She has proven she isn't any ordinary girl."

Tsunami was outside the dojo. She had come upon the statement of Reborn saying she's no ordinary girl. What were they talking about?

"So, I assuming we're going to continue the event then." Reborn said.

'Event?' Though Tsunami.

"Yes, I will keep fighting for Tsunami's affection!" Said Hayato.

'My affection...fighting for it?'

"I will continue to have Tsunami's love for myself." Kyouya glares at his rivals.

"Kufufu, I believe that I had breakthrough with Tsunami the other night. Surely, I am ahead of the game in this contest."

'C-contest...?' Tsunami hugs Lambo close to her. Lambo looks up at her.

"Tsuna-nee?"

Contest...affection...her love...

Tsunami couldn't believe it. They were competing with each other for her love. They made it into a event. Probably has a stupid Vongola-style name to it too! Tsunami covers her hand with her mouth and large tears flood down her face. Lambo looks up at her and her tears fall onto his face.

"I don't believe it...how could they...those...I...I trusted them...and to think I..."

Tsunami slides down to her knees and releases Lambo to cover her face. They didn't even tell her that they were doing this...Reborn didn't tell her! They didn't even ask her if they should be fighting for her. There was no contest! Tsuna stifles her sobs behind a hand and wipes her tears.

"There are fifteen more days left. The thirty days are almost up. You can do whatever you like. I won't stop you."

Tsunami quietly and quickly moves walks away from the dojo. Lambo watches her walk away and notices her clutching her chest over her heart.

"Tsuna-nee...your heart..." Lambo's eyes water. "Your heart puzzle is breaking..."

Lambo's cries are heard and startles the guardians. Takeshi and Hayato rush outside and see Lambo bawling his eyes out.

"Oh, Lambo! When did you get here?" Asks Takeshi.

"Hey, stupid cow! Why are you crying?" Snaps Hayato.

"You jerks! Reborn you're a jerk! Waaaaaaaah! You...Ahoudera...everybody broke iiiiiiiiiit!"

"Stupid! Broke what!"

Tsunami hurries to the front of the restaurant. The sushi was ready for pick-up. Tsuyoshi return to the counter to see her off and notices the tears on her face.

"Tsunami-chan? What's wrong?"

"Yamamoto-san...could you do me a favor? Tell Takeshi and the others not to come see for awhile...I...I'm..." She looks at Tsuyoshi with watery eyes. "Tell them that I'm disappointed in them. I can't believe that they would hurt me this way..." She sobs and sniffs. "Oh, and also tell Reborn...not to come home! It would hurt me so much to see him knowing he allowed this to happen."

"Tsunami-chan."

Tsunami turns and runs out. Tsuyoshi holds a hand out to stop her but she was already gone. A frown comes on his face. He rolls up his sleeves and stomps outside, grabbing his training bokken on his way out to the dojo...

Hayato was failing miserably in trying to make sense of what Lambo was saying. Kyouya was becoming annoyed and Mukuro had faded into Chrome. Chrome watched with a confused expression.

"TAKESHI! HIYAAAAA!"

SMACK!

"OW! Whoa, dad! What's going on...?" Takeshi rubs his head bewildered by his father's actions.

He instantly shuts his mouth when the tip of the bokken was swung and pointed at him inches from his nose. His father was furious and he glares at the other boys and waves his sword at them all.

"What did you do to make Tsunami-chan run out of my restaurant door crying!"

There is dead silence.

"C'mon now! Speak up! Why did Tsunami run crying? She told me to tell you boys not to come near her house...at all! She is disappointed in you all and can't believe that you would hurt her so! And whoever is Reborn...Tsunami said not to come home!"

Tsuyoshi growls and walks away. Lambo starts crying again.

"You broke it! You all broke it! You broke Tsuna-nee's heart! Waaaah!"

"T-tenth...what...what have I done...what have I done..." Hayato grips his hair and distraught expression overwhelms his face. "I hurt her..."

The pain his father inflicted on Takeshi became dull compared to the sharp guilt cutting into Takeshi's heart. His bright eyes lost their luster.

"This isn't...extreme. I am extremely stupid." Ryohei groans and punches the wall of the dojo in frustration.

"B-boss..." Chrome whimpers. "Poor boss..."

Kyouya is silent. His eyes were hidden underneath the shadow of his bangs.

Reborn looks around him. All the guardians were lost in their thoughts full of shadows.

It was his fault. All his fault.

'Shit.' Reborn swore.


The door opens and slams as Tsunami enters her house. She leaves the food on the floor, takes off her shoes and rushes upstairs. Nana hears her run upstairs.

"Tsuna-chan, you have a guest..."

"I thought I told him not come here! I don't want to see any of them! Tell him to leave!"

"Tsuna-chan! What's got into you? Tsuna-chan!"

Tsuna slams the door to her room and leans against it. She covers her face and her tears come out between her closed lids and stream down her face. She cries full-heartedly.

"I can't believe! I can't believe! I don't want to believe it! It hurts! It hurts so much! God, it hurts so much! How could they do that! How could they! I trusted them and they...aaaaah!"

Tsunami sobs and stumbles to her bed. She fell to her knees and buries her face into her arms over the bed. Her heart hurt so much. Is this what if felt like to be betrayed?

"How could they?" She sobs. "It hurts so, so much!"

Tsunami didn't hear the door to her room open and close. A large, dark shadow covers her.

"Is that any way to treat your guest? You are such trash, scum!"

Tsunami flinches. She slowly raises her head and turns her teary-eyed gaze up. Her eyes widen and she gasps.

"Xanxus?"