l'usurpatore
Thank you for the following who have reviewed, followed and put this story in their favorite list:
sayakushiinachan, Narutopokefan, Love-is-Cyanide, .556, sousie, and Akayuki Sawada
This is my birthday fic for Tsuna. Sorry if it was very late, but better late than never, right? :)
Disclaimer: KHR belongs to Akira Amano
"Welcome back, Reborn-san, Soichi," Chrome greeted with a smile. She was going outside to buy something when she met the two.
"Where are you going, Chrome?" the red-haired ask.
"I'm going to buy a present for bossu,"
"Chrome wait for me to the extreme!" the Sun guardian came running, dressed in casual clothing like Chrome. He stopped when he's beside the Mist guardian. "You're buying Sawada a gift right? I'll come with you. I want to buy one as well."
Soichi looked at the two in confusion, "Why are you buying him a gift?"
"It's for bossu's birthday!" Chrome replied with excitement evident in her eyes, which was mirrored in Ryohei's eyes as well.
"I know, but Tsuna doesn't like parties and gifts on his birthday, right?"
The two Vongola guardians exchanged a look and smiled.
"This time, Sawada will extremely accept the surprise party and the gift. Please excuse us. Let's go Chrome,"
After giving a respectful bow, the two went out, leaving Soichi in an even confused state.
"I don't get them,"
"You'll understand once you met Tsuna," Reborn replied with his usual smirk. His dame student is doing well.
"You will see Tsuna right?" he asked at the retreating figure of the hitman, "Can I come with you?"
Reborn replied with a wave of his hand for a yes.
Rez brows were furrowed. His hands were holding a document on both hands he got from the pile of paperworks Gokudera had finished on his behalf. He wanted to know why the proposal on his right hand was approved while the one on his left was rejected. The brunet sighed and put back the documents. This is too much for his feeble brain to handle. It might take years for him to be able to accomplish this certain task. He just hoped that Tsunayoshi will come back sooner before someone starts making suspicion about his real identity. Rez was distracted from his thoughts when the intercom rang.
"It's me, dame –Tsuna,"
Reborn is here? Rez wondered why the he came back so suddenly. He thought he will not be seeing the Italian hitman for a long time. Did he found Tsunayoshi? The door to his office opened and his tutor came in, together with a red haired man with glasses. Ah, it's Irie Soichi. Rez stood up from the chair and greeted them with a wide smile.
"Good morning. How are you, Soichi?"
Soichi only stared at the Vongola Don with wide eyes. Realizing he was speechless for a long time, the red-haired man immediately stuttered a reply.
"I-I'm fine, Decimo," he faintly hears 'see what I mean?' from Reborn at the background. "I'm glad to see that you're fine as well," this time he did not stutter.
"Thank you. Is there anything you need?"
"No, I just wanted to see you to check if you're okay. Now I can ease my worried mind. Please excuse me, Decimo, Reborn. I'll go to the tech room now,"
After receiving a nod from the brunet, Soichi left the room. His surprise in seeing the Decimo like that still lingers on. But now he knew why Chrome and Ryohei was so excited about the upcoming birthday of the Vongola Boss. And he would bet on it that almost everyone in Vongola feels the same.
Because this time, the Decimo will surely allow them to pamper him on his birthday. Six years they've been trying to give the Tenth Vongola Boss the birthday celebration he deserves but he vehemently refused. Now, this is their chance.
Irie Soichi can't help but feel excited as well.
"What is it, Reborn?" Rez asked at last when he felt uncomfortable to the long stare the hitman was giving him. It seems that the older man had something on his mind while looking at him.
"Do you have any weird dreams lately?"
Rez was silent for a while, trying to remember any dreams he had these past days. Then he remembered one.
"Last night, I dreamed of twin children. One of them was reading a book, while the other one drawn a rainbow,"
A book and a rainbow. Reborn is suspecting it's a memory. He will call the Sawada household later to confirm it.
"Anything else? Have you dreamed about Sawada Tsunayoshi?"
"No, I haven't," Rez was puzzled with the questions the raven-haired man was throwing to him. It's not like his dreams held meaning, right? And last time he checked, he was normal human being, not a seer.
"If you dreamed anything related to Tsunayoshi, call me right away,"
The brunet raised his left hand to scratch his head. This is gonna be a pain. Now he needs to remember every dream he had and report it to Reborn. Great.
He was startled when suddenly his wrist was grabbed harshly.
"R-Reborn?! What-"
"Where did you get this ring?" the hitman asked in a dangerous tone.
"Y-you're the one who give it to me," Rez flinched when his wrist was gripped even more tightly.
"This is not the one I gave you," Reborn made his grip a bit loose when he noticed the younger male's hand turned pale due to lack of blood supply. "Now, tell me the truth."
"I-I removed the ring when I took a bath but I f-forgot where I placed it. T-then when I searched, I found it inside the drawer of the side table right near the bed,"
Reborn could not believe it. One glance and the hitman knew that this is the real Ring of the Sky Version X. How come it is inside that drawer? He had not a slightest idea why it is there and not in Tsunayoshi's hand. And that makes the matter worse. Without the ring, Tsunayoshi is very vulnerable right now. He had faced that ambush, paralyzed and without Vongola gear. The hitman can't help but feel dread about his former student's condition. Another big question is how Tsuna managed to go to Hyper Dying Will Mode without the ring. The raven haired man noticed Rez trembling. He can feel the rapid pulse and see the fear etched on his face. Maybe he reacted a bit too much. He let go of the hand and the brunet immediately nursed his hurting wrist.
"Take care of that ring. That's the true Ring of the Sky Version X. Loose it and I will kill you," without further ado, Reborn left leaving a bewildered Rez.
Too many questions. All of them unanswered. Reborn doesn't like it. He really, really dislike it when he is left in the dark. And there's one more mystery he would like to uncover on top of that long list of queries.
How the hell dame-Rez was not rejected by the ring?
Something was making all the herbivores in Vongola headquarters elated, Hibari noticed. The Vongola guardians frequently went out and came back with bags of something. Others crowd as if having some sort of a meeting. He overhears ballroom, buffet and band. Now, that doesn't sound good. Looks like a big party is going on. And big party means big crowd. No, not good at all. But whenever the Vongola Boss will pass by or at a hearing distance, the herbivores will quickly disperse or shut their mouth up.
He glanced at his Patek Phillipe Sky Moon Tourbillon watch. He still got 30 minutes more before his appointed time for the monthly conference of the Cloud division. Then he noticed the date. October 1. Two weeks later will be the Decimo's birthday. Now, he knows what those herbivores were up to. The Cloud guardian continued his walk along the hallways.
And met the pineapple bastard.
"Hello Kyoya! What a fine day it is, isn't it?"
"And you've just ruined it by showing your face," he ignored the fact that the illusionist had called him by his first name. Maybe he's trying to taunt him.
Mukuro feigned a hurt look. "Why are you so cold to me? Are you perhaps jealous of how close Tsuna and I yesterday?"
Hibari gritted his teeth, "You're closeness is just a temporary thing. When the time comes the herbivore will recover from his trauma, you're so called closeness will disappear,"
"Are you sure?" the taller man gave him a grin, "I'll make use of my time then. I will do all I can to be even more closer to Tsunayoshi, closer than you've ever been,"
"Do what you want," he abruptly left the Mist guardian, but he definitely heard the bastard made that weird laugh of his. How irritating.
No. I'm not mad. I'm just annoyed by that mist herbivore. I'm not mad.
He remembered how Tsuna laughed openly yesterday. A light, carefree laugh like that one on the rooftop when they came back from the future.
I'm not jealous.
Nana was cleaning in their living room, but her mind is going elsewhere. Her Tsu-kun's birthday is nearing and she really wanted to go see his son on that memorable date. But Nana thinks she should not be greedy. Tsuna came home last month after all and right now, he is probably busy. Maybe she will call him in Italy later when she's done cleaning.
And then the phone rang. Thinking that it might be Tsuna, Nana immediately answered the call at first ring.
"Hello, Sawada residence, this is Nana speaking,"
"Hello, Maman. I'm Reborn. How are you doing?"
"Oh, you're little Reborn's brother!" Reborn did not make an effort to correct her. It might complicate things up. Better leave Nana in the dark than involve here in mafia business, "I'm fine. Just thinking of my Tsu-kun since his birthday is near.
"Yeah, you must be proud of your son since he grow into a great person,"
Nana gave a chuckle, "Oh Reborn, you just don't have any idea how proud I am. It seems like it was yesterday that Tsuna was a little child, showing me his drawings with a bright smile on his face,"
"Did he draw rainbows too?"
"Why yes. That's actually Tsu-kun's most favorite thing to draw since he said it has lots of colors. He will disturb Tsubasa who was reading a book then the two of them will go to me to show Tsuna's piece of art," Nana told the tale with fondness. Her face turned sad remembering the other twin who passed away.
"I'm sorry to brought sad memories to surface, Maman,"
"No, It's fine, Reborn. By the way, how is little Reborn doing? Does he still do tutorials?"
"Yes, he is. Don't worry Mamman, he's alright. I'm sorry I have to go now. I will call again next time,"
"Take care Reborn. Bye."
Reborn ended the call with one of his guesses proved true. His new student is seeing a memory. This one added to the evidence that Rez might be Tsubasa. Now, he better find Kawahira. Reborn felt that he is one of the key person in this whole puzzle.
"Dead end again," Rez sighed deeply and glared at the monitor of his PC inside the office. He was looking for any information about Elise, and was really astounded with the truth about his best friend. She was never a secretary for Hibari Kyoya. It seems she lied to Rez about her real work. Elise has joined Vongola right after she graduated, and had made her name known to the mafia world due to her intelligence, beauty, and strong cloud flames. Due to her flame attribute, she was put under the Vongola Cloud division. And Rez was not surprised that Elise made it to third-in-command. The brunet felt pride knowing that her best friend was the most trusted person of the Cloud guardian right after Tetsuya Kusakabe. Rez is well aware that Hibari is similar to Reborn. They don't put their trust to other's easily and only entrusted things to be done by excellent people.
Looking further at the reports, Rez was even more amazed at the successful mission rate of Elise. It was 95%. He did not dare open the files containing the details of the missions. This is mafia. There will be violence, legal and illegal negotiations, and killing involved. But then, the seemingly flourishing career of the young woman abruptly ended. For reasons unknown.
And Rez was dying to know why.
He leaned further in the leather chair and crossed his arms in frustration. He roamed his eyes on the desk, trying to find anything that might help him in his search for her lost best friend. Then he happened to glance at the calendar. It showed October. Time really flies so fast. It has been a month since he came here in Vongola,and Rez was very much comfortable with the people and the environment. The orphan was surprised himself with how easy it was for him to fit in. But lately, he noticed people around him acting weird. It's like they were up to something. Rez just hope it's not something that will jeopardize his act. Rez stood up to stretch for a bit when he saw a box on one side of the room. Ah yes, that was the delivery from two weeks back for Sawada Tsunayoshi. He did not dare open it since it's not for him. Maybe there's something in there he is not allowed to see. But curiosity got the better of him.
And since he wants to distract himself from the frustration of not finding the whereabout of her best friend, Rez took the box and placed it on top of the desk. He got a cutter from one of the drawers and opened the box. Inside Rez see some personal belongings like clothes and documents. He rummaged deeper when his hands grazed something cube in shape. He picked it up and examined the object. It's a small box.
"This looks like a box weapon," the brunet went to his PC to search for the said object. He is not sure if this is indeed a box weapon. He already forgot some of the things Reborn had taught him so he needs something to refresh him. After some typing and clicking, Rez found what he is looking for. It's a box weapon indeed.
"It says here to inject dying will flames to open. I guess I'm not meant to open it."
He put the item back in the box again and closed it. Rez decided to store it in the bedroom.
"Alright. The ballroom is ready, the decors are in place, the foods were planned out and the band was hired. The program was organized as well," Gokudera checked his checklist numerous times. He made sure he did not miss anything for the party. This will be the best party ever since his Judaime deserves nothing but the best. He looked up at the ballroom. Many Mafioso were busy setting the place. Although the decors, tables and chairs were already set, there are still some last minute revisions to improve the setting. They made the preparations for their beloved boss's party discreetly because they wanted to surprise him, pulling even an all nighters just to make sure the Decimo will not suspect of anything.
And the program entails special numbers by the guardians and some close allies. Most Vongola guardians were especially excited to present their show to Tsuna. Well, except for Hibari. He did not give a damn about the party due to the crowd and presenting an entertainment for the Vongola boss is unthinkable. It doesn't matter if that fighting freak will join or not. As if he had any talent to show aside from biting people to death. Gokudera scoffed.
"Where will we put the presents, Gokudera?" Yamamoto asked, carrying many boxes of presents in his arms. The Storm guardian raised his hand and pointed at the long table on the left side of the stage. "Okay," the taller man went on the pointed direction.
"Oh, it's October 14. This makes Sawada Tsunayoshi 24 years old," Rez happened to see the digital clock and calendar on his bedside when he picked up the Vongola Gear. He is already up earlier and finished bathing and changing. The brunet put on the ring and went to window and opened it. The fresh morning scent met him and he took a deep breath. Rez looked at the rising sun. The beauty of sunrise never ceases to amaze him. I wonder when my birthday is. Am I as old as Tsunayoshi? Maybe younger? Rez face turned into a sad one. I wonder how Tsunayoshi is doing. I pray that he is fine. It's his birthday but he is all alone. His only company was the enemy. Dear God, please keep him safe.
After his little prayer, Rez went to his office. Strange, he did not see any of the Vongola guardians on his way. Without fail, Gokudera would be there outside of his office to greet him good morning. Or along the way, he would meet Ryohei who wakes up early as well to take his extreme jogging. Lambo would go see him before going to school but now he did not show up. After sitting in his office for an hour, Rez decided to get out and look for the other guardians. He is sure they are not on the mission (he made an effort to read every bit of paper on his table), and whenever they leave the Vongola HQ, they always inform him.
The brunet went to the medical wing to see if the Rain guardian was there.
"He's not here, Decimo. He said there is something important that came up," Shamal informed him. "He did not inform you?"
Something important? What could it be? Oh no! Maybe they already found out Sawada Tsunayoshi was missing and that I'm an impostor! "Maybe he just forgot to tell me. Thanks Shamal,"
The doctor raised an eyebrow at the Vongola Don's troubled expression. He shrugged it off and returned back to work.
Rez searched everywhere. The training room, the lobby, outside the garden, in the kitchen, and he even knocked on each of their bedroom. Still nothing. He tried asking anyone he met but they have the same answer.
We don't know.
And they would avert their gaze and hurriedly get away. As if trying to hide something. And the more people Rez approached to ask, the more his fear increases.
They know. They found out. Maybe they're planning to kick me out today, or even kill me. That's why I did not see any of them. They probably hated me now.
With a depressed feeling, Rez went back to the bedroom. He sat on the bed with his knees up and hugged it with his arms. It's a pity. He had really grown fond with each of them. He doesn't want to be separated from them this way. He would rather leave without them knowing who he really is than to be found out he is a faker. He could not bear to see the look of betrayal and accusation on the guardians face.
I can't return to the orphanage. They might track me down, and the children will get involved. I better live on my own and hide my face so no one will mistake me for Sawada Tsunayoshi.
His depressing thoughts were cut when the door of the bedroom was violently opened. Rez looked up to see the fuming Cloud guardian. This is it. My time is up.
Hibari mercilessly grabbed him in the hands and pulled him out of the bed. "Come with me," the Cloud guardian immediately let go of his hands and went ahead. Not wanting to anger the older man anymore, Rez hurriedly wore his shoes and followed.
Their walk going to who knows where was filled with silence. Rez's steps were heavy, as heavy as the emotion he is feeling right now. He imagined the disgusted look they will throw at him. He imagined the hurtful words he will be receiving. He imagined how painful it will be. Yes, it's better to think ahead so that when he received the strike, it won't hurt as much.
"You're lagging, herbivore," Hibari grabbed his left hand and dragged him like a rag doll, "Hurry up, let's get this over with,"
Right. It's better to do things quickly. Prolonging it will only add up to his burden. The grip on his hand hurts. He can feel Hibari's anger rising every step they took. Rez kept his eyes on the ground the whole time, afraid to see what lies ahead. But he did raise his head when the Cloud guardian stopped abruptly which made him almost collide at the taller man's back.
"Get in," He commanded coldly and Rez meekly complied. His hands were trembling as he turned the knob of the double door. Rez took a deep breath and opened the door widely-
Happy birthday to you! ~Happy birthday to you!~ Happy birthday Tsunayoshi~Happy birthday to you!~
Rez forgot to breath. He just gaped while confetti from numerous party poppers dropped on his head. Cheers and well wishes was everywhere. Vast amount of foods were arranged beautifully on long tables. The entire room, although looking formal due to it's baroque architecture, looked cheerful because of the decorations. A moderate size stage is at the far end of the room and the table beside the stage was full of gifts.
"T-This is..."Rez can't continue his words. He was so overwhelmed, so relieved. His secret was not blown as he suspected. Instead a surprise birthday party awaits him. These people with wide smiles while looking at him made his heart almost burst with happiness.
"Judaime, I hope you like our little surprise for you," Gokudera cheerfully said in the microphone.
Little surprise? What the hell is little with all these preparations! Rez was about to say his gratitude when Hibari beat him to it.
"Now, release Hibird," the Cloud guardian looked like he was ready to kill Mukuro as he glared at the man holding a trident. Rez turned to Mukuro's direction and saw Hibird inside a small cage. The cage was hooked at the tip of the trident. Directly below the cage was a pot filled with boiling oil. "I have brought Sawada Tsunayoshi as you wished. It's time for you to fulfill your side of the negotiation,"
The brunet stared incredulously at the male Mist guardian, "Y-you hostaged Hibird?"
"Kufufu, that man is so uncooperative so I have to take drastic measures to make him follow,"
Now he knew why Hibari was so angry. And it was then that Rez realized he worried for nothing. Due to the rollercoaster emotions he felt, the brunet suddenly felt weak and dropped to the ground. Some people who saw him fell down rushed to his side, bumping on Mukuro which made the cage shook violently. Then the unexpected happened. The hook came off and the cage plummeted to the boiling oil.
"Chhhiiiirrpppp!"