N/A: I'll be rereading 'Contract' and doing the exact same thing I had done to 'The Unexplainable' because I have completely forgotten about the entire storyline. It might take me a while but when I'll update the chapters with the edits, it'll be when the new chapter comes out.

By the way, I don't know if anyone noticed but since the start of chapter 32, there's always been some dialogue shared between Tsuna and someone else at the beginning (sometimes middle), both of which are reflecting back on the past. This person is not Reborn or any other character that's been introduced. Can you guess who?

Beta'd by Pure Red Crane

Chapter 37

"Sin, you're absolutely brilliant for a mad man."

"Hm?"

"No, really. You know how to work people, you know exactly what to say, you know how to string them along, to convince them to do something they don't quite feel comfortable with, and/or make it seem like it wasn't your idea in the first place. I'm still learning even after all this time. You were able to push Xanxus of all people into doing something that was questionable, sometimes even Reborn."

"It takes time, practice, and experience. And sadly, I've had to go through a lot of all three to get a firm hold on people's personality and movements." There was a short pause. "If you'd like, I can help teach you. Follow you throughout your day like a ghost and start with those that are considered easy and work your way up."

"I'd like that, thanks!"

Xanxus stormed the Vongola mansion, a dark murderous aura surrounding him as he made his way down the multiple corridors. Mammon was settled on his right shoulder, hanging on for dear life as he maneuvered his body side to side to prevent himself from being thrown off by the force of each and every turn the adult made. People that were in the hallway immediately shifted to the side, pressing against the walls as they freely allowed the raging Varia boss to stride by with no issues or complaints. Some he passed stared for a few moments before turning away, not wanting to be shot by Xanxus, whose fingers were looking a little too twitchy to be normal. Others remained in place behind him, suspicious of the man's arrogant actions as the memories of the past were still fresh in their minds. However, no one stood up to do anything, as much as they wanted to deep within.

Despite the hood obscuring his view, Mammon could visibly read the expressions of the men as they went by and spoke it aloud to Xanxus, hoping that it might calm his boss. They didn't need any more trouble at this point in time, not when it was getting close to the ring battles. "Boss, there's no need to do something like this. Storming in will make it look like you want to attack. There are still many suspicious of you considering the last incident."

"Then they can fuck off. I don't give a shit about some useless trash." the Varia boss sneered, turning the corner to where he could see the main office in sight. Two men guarding the door peered up questionably at him and immediately went on guard, clutching their weapons defensively. Xanxus quickly reacted and yanked out his own, his Wrath flames pooling into the weapon as the end glowed bright orange. "Out of the way, trash! I'm heading in whether you like it or not!"

Pulling the trigger, an explosion was sent off, instantly blasting the two individuals across the rest of the hallway. They weren't dead, unconscious and perhaps a little burned, but alive. It wouldn't do if he got any more bad press among Vongola and he was smart enough to know when he had gone too far. Keeping his gun at his side, he continued on. Only he and Mammon were here in Italy, the rest of his team remaining back in Japan with two of the four keeping an eye on Tsunayoshi and the other two on Iemitsu for his plans. It didn't take long, just a couple hours of searching from Mammon's information banks, to figure out that something foul was in the making and it was too obvious that all of it was circling back to Iemitsu and Nono. Words were being whispered, people were stirring about unusually, and there were attentive eyes on him that weren't ever there before. It was suspicious, too suspicious, and it brought Tsuna's warning to the surface of his mind.

As Xanxus reached the large wooden frames (enforced with metal interior for attacks), he jerked them open with a single kick, almost unhinging them at the force. His eyes landed instantaneously on the man settled peacefully at the desk, Xanxus identifying him as one of the masterminds of this whole operation. Long ago, he had once tried to kidnap the Vongola boss and use his own father to power a machine while placing a double to get himself nominated as an heir, but that plan fell through when they had been surprisingly attacked during the process. To prevent any suspicion, the Varia had gone quiet to keep people from glancing their way and killed off those that were expendable. It got bizarre when Nono suddenly nominated Xanxus a week later, despite them both knowing the truth of his heritage, leading up to the upcoming ring battles.

"Nono! You have some explaining to do!" he sneered, stomping forward. Each step rattled the surrounding furniture, the glass especially, and stalled at the guest sitting area. His jacket fluttered behind him, Mammon still remaining on his shoulder intact.

Vongola Nono simply smiled, unfazed by the abrupt intrusion. "Ah, Xanxus, you're back. I thought you would have been preparing for your fight with Sawada Tsunayoshi. I wasn't even aware you had left Japan until I heard about your arrival in Italy about thirty minutes ago."

Calm and collected, he stood up while keeping his usual warm smile on and strode around his chair by pushing it to the side with one hand. Soon after, he tucked both hands behind his back, hooking them, and leaned over slightly to get a better examination of his youngest son. Eventually, Nono sighed. "But that doesn't excuse you storming in here like that and making a mess. There are better methods to use if you simply wanted to talk to me. I know I taught you that."

"Shut it, old man." Xanxus huffed, unbothered that he was insulting his adoptive father. "I have questions and I want answers for each and every one of them. I'm not leaving until I get them!"

"Questions?" Nono appeared confused for a moment as he mentally thought over Xanxus' words before it cleared, his expression slipping back into its usual poker face. He nodded his head, putting his smile back on. "Ah, what sort of questions do you have for me?"

The Varia boss sneered, despising the other's carefree attitude. "What exactly are you planning between me and Sawada Tsunayoshi? I know there's something strange going on about this fight and I'm not some idiot to not notice it. You have some fucking explaining to do. And I know the foolish External Advisor, Iemitsu, has something to do with it as well."

"Strange?" Nono shook his head soon after. "Not really. As for you and the other heir, I wanted a battle to determine the best amongst you two. I may have never been the best father, but I wanted to give you a chance, the chance you deserve." The Vongola leader went quiet for a second and glanced away towards the window behind him that overlooked the scenic garden and surrounding forestation behind the mansion. The sun created a shadow around him, hiding all emotions on his face. "Well, at that time, I honestly did despite knowing what would happen, but things are changing."

Xanxus narrowed his eyes for a moment. "What do you mean by that? Tell me everything! I was told by an informant that someone wanted us to fight to the point of killing each other to make way for another." He refused to give out the real name of his said informant, keeping a few bits to himself. Though he might not always look like it, in the mafia world, no one ever reveals all the cards hidden in and under their sleeves.

At that comment, Nono frankly winced and spun around to peer straight at his son, the shadows hiding half his expression. A flash of honest flickered though his eyes before it was gone. "That's...quite a harsh way of putting it." He sighed softly, settling back into his seat. It was in that instant that it was obvious his age was finally getting to him, the wrinkles more noticeable than usual and the strain surrounding his eyes darkening. "I don't really want that, but I don't see any other way to make this work. There just can't be multiple heirs claiming the throne all at once. Vongola would be torn asunder, divided separately, as they sided with who they thought was best fit for the job."

"So then it's true. There is another person in the background planning things, staging everything." Making a tch sound under his breath, Xanxus took four steps forward, enough so he was standing before the desk, and slammed his hands down onto the wood. It cracked from his strength and, for a second, his hands flamed an orange shade, a reveal to his emotional state of mind. "Who is it? I want to know! I want to know who would want both me and Sawada Tsunayoshi dead!"

"That would be me."

Xanxus instantly snapped his head around, hard enough that he felt his neck ache afterwards. Mammon almost tumbled off at the force, but still managed to remain attached, keeping quiet as he observed from underneath his hood. The Varia bosses' eyes settled onto the person at the door that had clearly spoken, purposefully interrupting the present conversation, and felt them momentarily widen as he recognized the individual standing at the doorway. He froze in place, paling slightly as he took the person into consideration. "Impossible..." he whispered, "It's impossible. You're supposed to be..."

"No, it's not and I'm not, Xanxus." the person countered, unable to hide his cunning smile. "And honestly, I don't really want you dead. I wanted you weakened enough to get out of my way for a good couple of months while I took over. It's Sawada Tsunayoshi that I need dead and I was hoping that you would do the job for me during your battle. It was a good plan, honestly, but I guess some things need to be pieced around now that you know the truth. You never were good at following orders directly."

The Varia boss narrowed his eyes, aware that the other had deliberately admitted in desiring both or either of them dead. "So you're just using me to do your dirty work. To do everything while you tug the strings in the shadows until things settle into your favor."

The man chuckled, shrugging his shoulders. "It happens all the time. Why are you so surprised that such a thing would happen to you? This is the mafia. We kill and manipulate all of those around us to get exactly what we want. Anyway, Xanxus, we both know you do the exact same thing to the people around you. Regardless, Iemitsu has already given his consent in having his son killed and anyone connected to him as long as we spare his wife. He didn't even care that much, always ready to please his famiglia even when it demands his own family's destruction."

Xanxus managed to conceal a wince at the harshness, grinding his teeth together instead. To think an actual father wanted his own flesh and blood dead, despite this being the mafia. Even he didn't have that bad of a relation with his old man and that was saying something. With all the trouble he had caused in the past, all the death he had created, all the destruction, Nono never once thought about killing him. Perhaps sealing him away, but it was an effort to preserve his life (though sometimes he thought it to be a fate worse than death, but Xanxus understood the feelings behind it). Sawada Tsunayoshi definitely got the short end of the stick, literally. There was no one in Vongola out there to protect him, to cover for him, to stand by his side.

Tsuna only had himself.

"Remember, this is the mafia, Xanxus. Or should I say, little brother?"

"What do people call you? I'm quite curious, Sin. I'm certain that someone like you would have gained many names over the years."

"That's correct and I have. I've been called multiple things over time. To most, I'm known as one of the many demon kings that rule over Hell, that sends out sentences to create the downfalls of others. I've been given the title of the Blood-Red King due my...tendencies. I'm also better known as the Sorcerer King that rules over magic and is one of the most powerful beings in that field. To a select few, I've been called a God because of my powers that can alter the very fabric of time and space, changing the very notion of what is right and wrong in the universe. However, to you and most people, I'm called 'Sin', short for Sinister."

"But isn't your real name Tsunayoshi?"

"I'm not foolish enough to use my real name. Only a select few know it. I even cover my face with my clock to keep my features a secret and if not. I use a spell to keep people from recognizing me unless necessary. You'd have to be pretty powerful to break through it or at least see though it and there aren't that many considering my strength."

"Why?"

"Why not. I find it better to be safe than sorry. I even use a different form so that I can wander the various dimensions unnoticed. I don't really change much of myself, just my hair color, hair style, and facial structures, but its effective enough to blend in effortlessly. Plus, I think it's best that there aren't two Tsunayoshi's running amok in one world."

"Yeah, that might cause some confusion..."

Tsuna peered up momentarily from the kitchen table, ignoring the wary stare he got from Reborn in return. The hitman had learned very quickly that whenever Tsuna started moving about unusually, something was bound to happen. It was almost expected at this point.

The brunet closed his book, placing it down onto the table, and momentarily peered towards the side where he could see Nana cleaning up the current mess Iemitsu had created this morning. The blond had gone overboard once more and had drank himself stupor, snoozing absently in the middle of the living room in only his underwear and tank top. He had shoved all the couches and the center table aside, making room for him to sprawl out completely on the hardwood floor without a care in the world. Various empty beer bottles and opened bags of food decorated the area surrounding him, which left Nana with the job of cleaning up. Outside, rows of laundry were lined up, drying in the warm heat of the sun, while the two children played around and in them during their game of tag. Basil, on the other hand, had left to join one of the various teams that were currently placed in Namimori (Tsuna suspecting he was one of the few keeping an eye on Varia), getting back to work considering his original purpose had been concluded and he was fully healed. All in all, it looked like a pleasant serene setting but everyone (except for Nana and the kids) knew that it would only take one little thing to upset the delicate balance and tip it over.

It was the late afternoon and earlier that day, all of Tsuna's friends had slowly made their way over to the Sawada household to greet him (and, for some, to check up on him). It was the weekend after all, so it wasn't surprising. However, it was noticeably obvious they could pick up the uneasiness between Tsuna and his father, the latter ignoring everything and resting on the floor like there was nothing wrong in the world, and in turn, between his friends as well. Takeshi had peered at the individual momentarily, blinking in astonishment, and had taken one look at Tsuna's face before his lips straightened into a thin line. He threw a slight glare at the father before spinning around and throwing an arm around the brunet, pulling him closer with a ready warm grin.

"Tsuna, if you need a place to crash, you're always welcomed at mine."

The brunet's lips twitched, almost breaking out into a smile to return the gesture. Instead, he leaned closer into the embrace and patted Takeshi on the arm. "Thank you, but I'm fine."

Hayato offered the exact same thing, sayingthat his apartment was open for extra guests even though his sister was staying with him. It was clear there was a strong loathe for Iemitsu shared among the group, something they could easily sense from their boss despite the brunet's face remaining utterly blank. Reborn, on the other hand, smirked in amusement, glad to see that these two were getting better at reading Tsuna's silent aura.

Surprisingly, Ryohei came by a little later with a blond-haired baby. Said baby was being carried by a flying falcon and the obvious blue pacifier instantly told the brunet the identity of said individual. The noise the two brought with them hadn't even disturbed the father of the household, but that might be because they were outside rather than in. Tsuna examined the Rain Arcobaleno, Colonello, from his spot at the doorway, who was obviously here to train his sun guardian, and nodded his head in respect. They didn't get a chance to talk though as Reborn and Colonello suddenly butted heads, literally, and argued over their training skills/methods in the background. Ryohei simply laughed at the persistent disagreement while Tsuna remained quiet. Though, he did shake his head at the excitement the trio brought with them.

When the sun guardian suddenly decided to break out into a run, Colonello used his animal partner to keep up, cutting their visit short. Soon after, Hibari strolled by, making his typical rounds in Namimori and for a second, their eyes caught sight of each other before the cloud guardian was gone, disappearing behind the wall.

Tsuna found it a little funny that in one way or another, he had seen everyone in just a few hours but, he couldn't find himself honestly minding it. It was days like this that made him feel... normal. Once everyone had come and gone, Tsuna and Reborn disappeared into the kitchen to relax, the latter sipping on some coffee that had been made by the brunet. It was a quiet day despite the interruptions and the peacefulness was almost infectious. However, Tsuna and Reborn both knew that silence never lasted long. It was bound to be interrupted once more, which brought them back to their current situation.

A few seconds after Tsuna had put down his book and turned to the side to stare at the living room, a chilly gust of air slid in, one that those related to the mafia instantaneously recognized. A shiver fell down everyone's backs as they tensed (the brunet unaffected and looking quite indifferent), sensing numerous dark auras suddenly appearing in the area. Reborn almost dropped his cup of coffee in shock, his black eyes wide, while Iemitsu immediately sprang straight up from his position on the floor, ignoring the surprised gasp that followed from Nana. The rattling of chains simply made that single name, the identity of these individuals, echo in everyone's minds.

Vindice.

Within moments, Reborn and Iemitsu were storming their way out to the front yard, the latter slamming the door wide open for the both of them. The icy air that came blasting through made the two shudder once more and Reborn immediately reached up to hold onto his fedora and, in turn, Leon, from being blown off his head from the force. Out in the front yard held three presences, the chains surrounding them rattling and their cloaks swirling as the wind blew around them. They stood imposing as always, faces bandaged up carefully to never reveal their hidden identities underneath.

"Vindice..." Iemitsu muttered under his breath, unable to hide the shock in his tone. He had never expected them of all people to show up and to make such a personal visit. It was almost unheard of. "What are you...doing here?"

None of the three guards spoke, remaining impassive to the question. The one that was in front, acting as the leader, raised a hand and tugged at the chains that were connected to him. It was only then that the two noticed the three bodies that were on lying aimlessly on the ground. Reborn's eyes widened a fracture, recognizing one of them at once. It was impossible not to with those multi-colored eyes peering straight at him and purple pineapple-shaped hair.

Mukuro...

And if the group was here, then that meant-

"I take it the information checked out?" Tsuna's voice was like an icy slice that snapped everyone's attention towards the back where the brunet was slowly easing his way down the hallway to the front door. He didn't look surprised, just calm as always, and stepped out from the house and into the open area. He placed some distance between himself and Iemitsu, knowing the other was glaring accusingly yet questionably towards him. "After all, there would be no other reason for you to be here unless it did, especially with the ones I requested you to release lying before me."

The leader of the group chuckled darkly and yanked the chains up once more, forcing the three teenagers on the floor to their feet. They were dressed completely the same as the last time they had seen each other, nothing different. The three boys struggled to remain standing, letting out a small groan when the Vindice guard ended up tugging a little too hard on their sore skin, reddening the flesh underneath. However, despite everything, Mukuro's eyes remained on the brunet, inspecting him ever so cautiously. It was clear the fire within hadn't quite burned out.

"The deal is complete." the leader of the three Vindice guards spoke. The chains that were wrapped around the three boys fell away, releasing them. The teenagers simply grunted at the sudden tug backwards, collapsing to the ground like dolls that had their strings cut. Neither of them moved, terrified that if they did, they would be captured once more by the guards for simply being an annoyance. Mukuro, however, eventually did shift, his multi-colored eyes peering straight up, once more staring at Tsuna. "We will release these three criminals into your custody. However, if they are to do anything to disobey the mafia laws, we will not hesitate to arrest them once more."

"I understand."

Despite the conclusion of the deal, the leader remained standing in place, staring at the Vongola heir inquiringly. "Sawada Tsunayoshi, we're quite curious. I must ask where exactly you got that information of yours. We have been searching for this man for years and yet never had such a...lead."

Reborn snapped his eyes over, knowing precisely what they were talking about. It was regarding the information on Checker Face. The deal being completed meant that his enemy had been found, but was he alive or did he escape? That was the more crucial question he wanted to bring up. However, he remained quiet, not wanting to interrupt. Iemitsu's face, on the other hand, was clearly brimming with questions and yet he too remained silent, observing the entirety of the setting carefully from the sidelines.

Tsuna shrugged his shoulders. "Let's just say I know what hides within the very corner of the world, seeable or not. Just like how I know the truth of your existence, Vindice." It was vague, but it was enough to settle the leader's interest. "Now then, I know what you want, more information regarding him. Sadly, I'm afraid I don't have anything worth giving. Not at this current time anyway. However, you shouldn't worry much. He only has a little more time before he ceases to exist."

Reborn's eyebrows shot up at that declaration, hope momentarily filling his heart and eyes, unbothered that his mask had cracked. It seemed even the Vindice had frozen up at the admission, peering at each other curiously as if wondering whether they had heard properly. The hitman stepped closer, staring up at the brunet, and watched as Tsuna glanced at him from the corner of his eyes with a small smile.

The Sorcerer King muttered some words, not loud enough for anyone but Reborn to hear. "Soon, Reborn. Very soon."

The sun Arcobaleno felt his heart flutter.

"Interesting," the leader of the three Vindice guards spoke up, a light chuckle on his bandaged-covered lips. "How very interesting. It seems our boss was correct in observing you closely, Sawada Tsunayoshi, and we shall. But for now, we'll take our leave." As he spoke, one of the two guards behind him opened a shadowy portal, large enough to let all three of them slip in. As they spun around, they peered straight at the brunet, expressions unreadable considering the bandages, but Tsuna could sense the atmosphere surrounding them. They were excited, distrustful, and even had a mix of hopefulness. It was clear they all despised Checker Face considering their fates, too obvious. The portal closed shut the moment the last guard went through, taking the chilliness and gusts of wind with them. The air was silent, no one moving at first as if wondering if everything that had just happened actually did.

Eventually, Tsuna was the first one to stir, humming gently to himself, and peered straight at the three teenagers on the floor. Stepping over, he outstretched his right hand for Mukuro to grab.

"Here," It was a simple gesture, one that snapped everyone's minds out of their frozen state.

The illusionist stared at the hand for a second, as if comprehending the notions behind it, before finally grasping the warm limb with surrendering reluctance. With strength he hadn't expected from the brunet, he was pulled up to his feet, the others following behind. "Sawada Tsunayoshi..."

"Sorry it had to take so long, you know how the Vindice operates or are at least familiar with them. They don't like to let things go that easily." The immortal's lips curled up to a small cunning smile, almost chuckling when the other fell dead silent. Chikusa and Ken were watching curiously from the background, letting their leader handle everything. "They can get quite possessive at times, though well hidden, about their prisoners."

"A-Ah..." Mukuro wasn't sure how to respond to that, feeling slightly embarrassed for some weird reason. "I suppose."

"Tsuna," Iemitsu's voice broke through the beginning of a somewhat bubbly setting, his voice as cold as the essence Vindice brought with them. His blue eyes gazed at the brunet distrustfully, obviously filled with hate, and had his arms crossed tightly against his chest. From his position, he was looking down on the brunet, holding back from outwardly attacking the other in front of everyone. Somehow the rest of household members had remained within, never noticing the commotion that was happening outside, and if they did, they ignored it. "You want to explain this so-called deal with Vindice? And these people are criminals. They deserve to rot in their cages after what they've done, not be free to cause more trouble."

Mukuro's eyes instantly snapped towards the blond, narrowing ever so slightly at the insult. His fingers twitched, desiring his weapon and illusions, but kept silent. The illusionist had originally known about the comments the CEDEF boss held towards his son, but to actually see it in person... He sneered angrily. He always hated it whenever parents never really loved their children, him being a product of that negligence and cruelty.

Meanwhile, both Tsuna and Reborn remained calm and were staring at the adult with dislike, neither of them fond of the man. For the hitman, it didn't take much to tell that Iemitsu was planning something horrible, something that would no doubt hurt Tsuna. Reborn didn't like that at all. He refused to allow anything horrible to happen to the brunet. He cared for him. Reborn blinked at that passing thought before shaking his head, focusing on the idiot blond once more. He couldn't be thinking of such things at this time.

On the other hand, Tsuna hummed gently to himself, unaffected by the stare. "And why exactly should I tell you anything? I don't believe that it's any of your business and anyway, aren't you a criminal as well? Mafia men aren't exactly known for their good nature, so you can't really speak for others. You have willingly killed people all for the sake of Vongola, whether it be an order or not."

Iemitsu sneered angrily before ultimately spinning away, storming back into the household. He purposely slammed the door shut behind him out of frustration, the bang that followed echoing into the quiet neighborhood. Reborn just huffed, flicking his fedora up momentarily before jumping into Tsuna's waiting arms, burying himself into the warmth. He was sick and tired of Iemitsu, not understanding why such an idiot had been a boss for so long.

Mukuro, Chikusa, and Ken just stared in wonder, unsure on what to do next. They were all glad and completely grateful for their release, but at the same time, they didn't know what to do afterwards. They all wanted to destroy the mafia, but being arrested by Vindice, hunted down like animals, and being treated like dirt, placed a huge damper on their ideals. The illusionist wanted to continue creating madness among the world, to make everyone pay for what they had done to him, however...

Mukuro, being the leader of the three, spoke up first. There was one question he had been dying to ask the Vongola heir, one that had been circling around his mind continuously since his arrest. "Sawada Tsunayoshi, why did you save us?"

"Save you?" Tsuna spoke up, tilting his head to the side, as he rotated his body towards the illusionist and away from the front door.

"Yes, as your father stated," Mukuro didn't miss the slight narrowing of those honey-colored eyes at his choice of words and quickly corrected himself. "As Iemitsu stated, we're criminals. We've done horrible things; we've even attacked you and your friends. We deserved what came to us. So why save us?"

The brunet simply stared, blinking once before shrugging his shoulders awkwardly with Reborn in his arms. "Why not? I'm not about to let you suffer if I can help it. And anyway, we were actually companions somewhere else."

For a minute, Mukuro looked a little shocked, eyebrows twitching in confusion as he tried to understand those last few words, even Reborn appeared questionable. "Companions? Somewhere else?"

"Yes, in a different dimension." Tsuna announced, gaining some startled looks from the group. Even Chikusa and Ken were looking towards each other in bewilderment, thinking that something was strange about the brunet, maybe even crazy. "I do hope you remember our conversation during our little fight about Hell. I wasn't exactly kidding when I mentioned it. I'm not originally from around here. I'd also like to mention that I'm not taking over Vongola so I suggest you give up on trying to control my body. There is a much better candidate available if you're really that desperate to continue your plans."

It was just minor details, not enough to squash any curiosity from everyone, but it was enough to gather some information on his identity. If anything, Mukuro was more fascinated than before and just like Vindice, he too wanted to keep an eye on the brunet. Still, everything just rounded out to another question. "Why are you telling me all this? You're got nothing to gain from it."

"Because I want to and I would like you to become friends with everyone I know." Tsuna smiled momentarily. It was weak, but it was convincing enough to those that saw it. "It's not good to go through this world alone even though you have two very loyal people at your side. People change and move on, but I know for a fact that if you remain with us, we'll always be there when you need us the most. It'll be like having another family that aren't exactly related to you by blood, but will love you regardless even with your strange tendencies. Well, if you can accept ours, of course."

Mukuro didn't answer, not trusting himself to speak up when he felt his heart being strung along. He wanted to believe the other, but at the same time, he didn't want to either. After everything that had happened to him in the past, he wanted to keep away, to remain safe, but some things just didn't happen the way he wanted them to. Ah, the essence of life.

Tsuna noticed the hesitancy and continued, changing the subject. "So where will you be staying? Do you have anywhere to go? I wouldn't mind offering mine, but Iemitsu won't exactly be friendly the entire visit. He won't hesitate in attempting to send you back to prison just to irritate me."

The illusionist was finding everything so hard to keep up with. One moment he had been chained up, the next he was having a friendly conversation with his once-enemy. Still, he already had an idea on where to go. "Kufufu, back to the old amusement park grounds. We've built a temporary home there even before the arrest. It's not the best, but it'll make due."

"I see." Tsuna leaned back before digging into his right pocket, slipping out his wallet that Reborn hadn't noticed was there before. Pulling out a couple bills, he handed them over. "Here, take this. Use it to get something to eat for tonight and try to eat healthy, not junk food." Before Mukuro could argue, he shoved it forward. "And no, you will take the money. I'm not leaving you out on your own without something to pick yourselves up with." Stepping back, Tsuna's expression went back to its blank poker face, keeping a tight grip around Reborn. "You're always welcome to come back here anytime to visit, especially during meals. I would appreciate it though if you text me in advance so that we can get enough food to cover three extra guests."

Mukuro glanced at the money, counting it briefly in one hand, before snapping his eyes back up. "That's quite a bit there, Tsunayoshi."

"Just call me, Tsuna. It's easier. And I suggest you head out soon and get your place ready for the night. I believe it's supposed to be a little chilly tonight."

Mukuro simply smirked, shaking his head. He was still having a difficult time accepting everything that had occurred. It would take time, but he would get there eventually. He gave a small nod as thanks, figuring that this conversation was over, before stepping back to peer at Ken and Chikusa, both of whom were still silent in the background. The two glanced between the brunet and hitman, unsure on what to say or do next. Meanwhile, Tsuna simply stared back before spinning to the side, making it clear that he was about to head back inside the house.

Finally, Chikusa spoke. "Thanks for the help."

"Yeah, thanks." Ken followed up. They were still hesitating, peering between their boss and the immortal.

Tsuna simply nodded his head before glancing at Mukuro once more. There was still one last thing he needed to say before he went back inside the household. He knew there would be a growth of issues between himself and Iemitsu, just waiting to explode the second he entered but he didn't care. Let the tension escalate. Let Iemitsu stew in his little corner. "By the way, Mukuro, try visiting Namimori hospital tomorrow, specifically the fourth floor. You might find someone interesting there."

Mukuro gave his signature laugh, "Kufufufu." His eyes had a little spark within them, already taking that information into consideration with a smirk. As the trio disappeared around the corner of the front yard, Tsuna peered down at Reborn for a moment before striding towards the house, readying himself to enter. He was going to have to spend most of the night avoiding his so-called father's questioning and demanding gazes, but it wasn't as if it was something new.

"Tsuna," Reborn called from within Tsuna's arms, gazing up dubiously. When he caught the brunet's attention, he continued, "When exactly are you going to tell me what's going on? I'm still waiting your answers."

The Sorcerer King chuckled softly, tightening his grip around the baby gently. "Once things have gotten a little safe. At this time, we need to tread carefully. With Iemitsu in the house, anything can happen and I'd rather not slip something to alert him of my plans for the future."

The sun Arcobaleno tugged down on his fedora, covering his eyes completely. He was disappointed and yet considerate at the same time. Things were getting dangerous and traveling towards a path he didn't quite like. He sneered silently to himself, sensing that something horrible was about to happen soon. He just hoped that it was his imagination.

The next day, Mukuro and his little crew transferred into Namimori middle and the whole school became the deadly location of a massive uproar as the illusionist and Hibari fought to the very brink of death on the rooftop before progressing throughout the school's entire campus. Only destruction lingered behind and those that were in their warpath were blown away, immediately sent to the hospital for treatment. It didn't help when Takeshi and Hayato got dragged into the middle of it or when Ryohei came running from the opposite side of the school to participate willingly in said battle.

As the five teenagers clashed, Tsuna and Reborn just observed from the sidelines. They would help with taking care of the fallen bodies afterwards, probably...

Classes were obviously canceled for the rest of the day.

Or week considering that none of the classrooms were salvageable.

Reborn stared down at his personal cell phone and examined guardedly as it rang momentarily in wonder. The brightness of the screen reflected off his eyes as it flashed on and off, but his fingers remained still over the green acceptance symbol as he processed the name of the caller. It was Vongola Nono. He knew he should answer his bosses' call, but there was a sense of dread filling his entire body. He didn't want to. He didn't want to talk to Vongola Nono. He knew his reports on Tsunayoshi had been minimal at best, so vague that there was no way to understand the truth of the matter, never revealing anything that was really going on with the heir. However, he knew this couldn't be related to that.

He just knew what this conversation would bring about.

With a heavy, reluctant sigh, he swiped the screen and accepted the call. Placing the phone against his ear, he answered. "This is Reborn."

"Ah, Reborn." The familiar tone of Nono's voice welcomed him, but that didn't ease Reborn's worries. "It's good to hear your voice, old friend. It's been a while, hasn't it?"

"Yes, since I came to Namimori to train Tsuna." Reborn knew the other was trying to place a calm aura around them, but it clearly wasn't working. Not one to beat around the bush, the hitman bluntly replied, "Why have you called, Nono? It can't be about Tsuna."

The older individual on the line chuckled momentarily. "As always, Reborn, straight to the point." There was a pause that followed before Nono spoke once more. "I need you to come back to Headquarters. There's been some changes that I need you to be aware of."

"I thought you wanted me to take priority in Sawada Tsunayoshi's training over anything else." Reborn covered up the stress in his tone, not wanting to reveal anything that was clouding his mind. He could tell they were reaching a point of no return, one he didn't want to push over. His eyes momentarily glanced towards Tsuna, who was settled near the table in the center of the bedroom. The brunet was reading a book as usual, focusing on the words rather than the present conversation. "You'll have to tell me exactly why you want me to come back so suddenly if you want me to move from my current position. My job is to train Sawada Tsunayoshi to become the next Vongola boss, nothing else."

"Reborn..." the elderly voice, filled with exhaustion, sighed. "Federico is alive."

Reborn blinked and then blinked again. No… That wasn't possible. Nono's son was dead. He had seen the remains. There was no way in hell it was possible. It just wasn't probable for someone evidently dead to come back to life. It had to be a trick, someone attempting to steal his place. "That's impossible..."

There was a followed sigh, "I thought so too until he was revealed a month ago, found in a coma induced sleep and hidden in a cage of an abandoned warehouse. He doesn't remember anything on what happened or how, just that he's been sleeping the entire time. I had every doctor I trust test him to make sure that he was actually real, screenings, blood work. Anything you can name, I've done it. Regardless, they're all positive in identifying him as none other than my Federico. I don't know what happened, but I somehow got one of my sons back."

Reborn didn't reply, his fingers tightening around the phone. It was only then that things were beginning to make sense. This one extra individual would change everything and indeed it had even before it had taken effect. There was an official heir now in position, ready to take the throne away from Tsuna, and Iemitsu was clearly working with him. Everything had become so ridiculously understandable. He couldn't believe it. No wonder Tsuna had been adamant in saying there was someone else. His eyes glanced towards the brunet curiously, wondering how this new information was going to affect them both. There couldn't be two heirs (Xanxus not counting) to Vongola, one was going to have to give up and he knew exactly who would do so. There was also the issue considering that this was the mafia and that it was normal to kill off the competition...

"Reborn." Nono's voice spoke once more, but he was in his little world. "Reborn. Reborn!"

The hitman snapped out of it and shuffled a little to get comfortable. "I'm here."

"I see." There was a strain in Nono's voice as if recognizing something within the Arcobaleno's voice, but it wasn't brought up. "Anyway, I need you to head to Headquarters as quickly as possible to get things settled regarding this new change. You're going to have to be included in this since you're in pretty deep."

"What about Tsuna?" Reborn brought up the real question on his mind, he couldn't avoid it, he wouldn't.

At the shuffling on the other side, he could already tell that it would be an awkward conversation. "That's also what I wanted to talk about when you get back. I don't want to do this over the phone if possible."

Reborn sneered, knowing that his boss was bluntly avoiding the question. "I see. Understood." There was a noticeable strain in his voice, clearly disliking the order. He didn't want to go anywhere. Immediately hanging up on his boss, the hitman spun towards the brunet and bit down on his bottom lip out of frustration. Everything had been thrown out of whack and he wasn't sure it was going to settle anytime soon or peacefully for that matter. This had to be something the brunet had predicted from the very beginning. "Tsuna…"

The brunet peered with a raised eyebrow. "What?"

"I've been ordered to return to Italy." Reborn muttered and stepped closer to the teenager, no, not teenager. Tsuna was like him, a being older in mind than body, and sometimes it was hard to remember that even though he was in same the exact position.

"I see. I'm guessing that they're going to decide whether to let the previous heir take over considering I've wanted nothing to do with any of this." Tsuna almost chuckled, closing his book gently. "And that means you won't be needed to tutor me anymore. You'll be free considering the deal you had with Nono will be cut short, yes?"

Reborn didn't have an answer to that. This change meant a lot to him. It meant his contract with Vongola was up, that he didn't have to be here anymore, and that he would need to return to Vongola to forge a new one if he wanted to continue working with the organization or return as a freelance hitman. Yet… that very thought didn't make him happy. Gripping his phone, almost about to snap it in half, he sighed as he tried to force his body to relax and not go on a crazy frenzy out of mere frustration. Walking around the table so that he could be next to the brunet, he flopped beside him tiredly before leaning over, tilting his fedora to the side. He didn't know what to think at this very minute and shifted closer to the other, using a leg as a pillow before sighing heavily, sensing Leon shift at his awkward movement.

He didn't want to leave his so-called student yet. For once, he felt like he was at home, like he was welcomed, was safe. Though they had started out shaky, secretly snarling at each other, after getting past all that and actually getting to know one another, they had become extremely close. Reborn hadn't noticed it until it was too late, or more like, when it was right before his face.

Tsuna understood him, saw past his current form to the real one, and he had even befriended him. He didn't want to leave the other. Not yet. Not when there were so many things he didn't understand and so desperately wanted to string everything out from the other. Tsuna was a never-ending, complex puzzle that would slither out hints now and then, but never a complete answer to tie everything together into a perfect neat little bow.

Regardless of his wishes, the sun Arcobaleno would need to head back to Nono for the meeting. There was no doubt about it, no way to get around it.

Neither spoke, Reborn still deep in thought, obviously dropping his guard enough to allow Tsuna to puck his fedora with Leon off and observe from the corner of his dark eyes as it was carefully placed onto the table. Soft tender hands ran through his hair as if trying to comfort him and he hummed in approval, closing his eyes. Sleep can come first, he could always think about his situation later.

Such a long chapter to make up the lack of update.

Anyway, I'm currently working on three other fanfics. The two containing Tsuna as 'Sin'/'Sinister' from here as a main character as these fics were born from Tsuna's interactions with other dimensions, the last as a minor unimportant appearance. I like it this way since I don't have to keep creating OCs to take their place each and every time. It's up on my profile page if you want to check it out.