A/N: Hello dear readers and happy new year. It is time for another chapter release, and here we get to see the climactic conclusion to Kurapika and Chrollo's unexpected encounter with the strange scientist, Debron Cloch. Since it had been some time from the last instance where I left everyone with a cliffhanger, I decided to compose and split the chapter as I had, but it also gave me more wriggle room to make the story more interesting and intense.
Of course, we also get to see exactly how both Chrollo and Kurapika react to a situation that places them into actual dire straights.
Also, I had planned to release this earlier in the week, but Neverwinter has sucked my soul, so I've spent more hours gaming than writing, but it hasn't kept me from writing, however. :P
And as always, a special thank you to SweetsDreamer for her continued service in betaing the chapters to this fic. ❤️ ❤️ ❤️
Summary: While at the hands and mercy of the scientist, Debron Cloch, Kurapika, is left to wonder precisely what the man has in store for him, and he can only hope that Chrollo will be able to find him in time.
There was only silence. Everything had fallen into a strange, eerie stillness while the pearlescent glow of the moon danced about in swathes across the floor. Even the lack of movement or signs of life made the place appear entirely forlorn, yet, despite that budding notion, something else continued pulling at the back of his mind.
For some time, Chrollo had been scouring the room he had inadvertently found himself in as the crunching sound of the dust beneath his boots seemed to dim in his ears. It was easy to discern from how thick the layers and grime were that nothing in the room had seen usage in some years.
Which, unfortunately, was just like all the previous rooms he had been in.
He was even unable to find any traces of footprints within the underlying granules covering the floor. It was another aspect that Chrollo had found odd, but the person they were dealing with was considered a hermit.
An hour had passed, and Chrollo realized that he was no closer to finding the man's hidden laboratory than he was in the beginning. Which, to a fault, made him wonder if there was a chance of locating the damn thing, or if it even existed. Still, there was a nagging sensation in the back of his mind that he just could not ignore.
Slowly, he drew his sturdy fingers over the surface of the wooden table that sat in the center, and they instantly left behind lines trailed within the particles there.
Chrollo brought his hand up to inspect the soot which coated them, and a frown crossed his lips. Absentmindedly, he brushed the pads of his fingers across one another to remove the substance from them, then his eyes scanned over his surroundings one last time before making his way to the door. It appeared that he wouldn't find anything here.
Was he any closer to finding the entrance to Debron Cloch's secret workshop, or where the Scarlet Eyes were being kept? He tapped his chin thoughtfully.
Maybe he hadn't been looking in the right place? Or was it possible that, perhaps, the way in was behind something inconspicuous or possibly accessed by a hidden mechanic?
The entire situation didn't feel right, and Chrollo was sure that he missed a key component along the way, but wasn't sure what. Yet, he still couldn't shake the nagging sensation that what he was looking for was right under his nose.
It frustrated Chrollo, and the idea of backtracking through the areas he searched previously left a sour taste in his mouth as he should have been more perceptive, but it was something he had to do regardless. Tracking down the madman's research lab and finding the Scarlet Eyes was a top priority.
He would not return without them. Chrollo had vowed to Kurapika that he would recover the eyes, and it was a promise which he intended to keep. If that meant tearing the place away bit by bit, he would.
Facing Kurapika otherwise was not an option.
With a sigh, Chrollo exited the small sitting room and strode back into the long, dimly lit hallway. In both directions, he saw nothing aside from the fading pictures on the walls and a few small tables with statues of some kind. A few even housed intricate vases, but none of them had been touched or seen a besom in years.
Going back would take time, but hopefully, he would finally come across some kind of clue or indication of where to actually go. In the back of his mind, Chrollo wondered if Kurapika had run into the same unfortunate circumstances, or had he actually managed to find something of importance?
The fact that Kurapika hadn't called yet told him otherwise and Chrollo feared that even his lover must have also been struggling with the same cumbersome task. It was even possible that their target was more ingenious and crafty than he initially thought.
If that turned out to be the case, and Debron was truly preemptive, then he and Kurapika were definitely up against a more proficient foe.
Which would be their greatest challenge thus far. Aside from the beasts they fought back in the ruins of Mirie, none of their previous targets had demonstrated such efficiency to the degree he saw from this Debron Cloch. It made the hairs on the back of Chrollo's neck prickle, but there was also the nagging sensation that he seemed unable to shake.
He couldn't explain it, or precisely what was causing the feeling, but it was like a foreshadowing of what was to come. Deep down, there was even a thread of concern for Kurapika. While he hadn't received any signal from the blond, considering the amount of time and the nature of their situation, it didn't quite sit right with him. Not that he disputed his lover's skills or adaptability, but they were dealing with a proverbial fanatic and madman.
The thought of what would happen if Debron managed to find out that Kurapika was the last survivor of the Kurta clan crossed his mind. How would the man react? What would he do? Considering that he had multiple pairs of Scarlet Eyes for unknown reasons still bothered Chrollo.
And yet, he had to continue on. There was time left before he needed to return to the designated rendezvous point, and until then, Chrollo decided to continue searching. However, if Kurapika wasn't there when he got it back, then he would go after his lover. It pained him as he had been opposed to the idea of letting Kurapika go on alone, but with the size of the place along with the fact it was just the two of them, splitting up was regrettably the best recourse.
Chrollo sighed. He turned away from the door which he exited from and began trailing back down the hallway when the sensation of something vibrating against his hip captured his attention. Abruptly, Chrollo stopped to slip a hand into the pocket of his coat and retrieved his phone. He noticed the screen was lit up, and instantly recognized the caller's name.
Without hesitation, Chrollo answered it.
"Kurapika?" He questioned, and there was a brief pause making him think there was no one on the other end when the sound of heavy breathing told him that ultimately wasn't the case.
For a few tense seconds, Chrollo's back went rigid from the silence, and it took everything he had to keep from bolting right then and there. His fingers tightened inadvertently around the phone.
Was something wrong with Kurapika? The urgency rose in Chrollo even more.
"Yes - Yes, it's me! I'm here!" The blond's voice echoed back finally, and he immediately picked up on the younger man's frantic tone. If he had been concerned about Kurapika's status before, Chrollo was practically worried now. Judging from the desperation accenting his lover's words, something significant happened. Chrollo nearly crushed the phone from the force of his grip.
"Where are you?" He questioned urgently, the need to reach Kurapika gradually increasing as even his instincts told him something wasn't right. If Kurapika had run into any kind of trouble, then he needed to find him immediately.
Before he could say anything else, and even before Kurapika could respond, the line seemed to go dead. Disbelief washed over Chrollo as he knitted his eyebrows in frustration.
Again, he called out for Kurapika, but there was only silence. Was it possible that phone signals were just weak in the area? Or could it be something more?
Then another thought crossed his mind.
Maybe it was also possible the signal was purposely getting blocked?
Dread crept through him like sludge oozing over water.
Chrollo wasted not another second cramming the phone back into his pocket and proceeded to expand his En range to the maximum distance possible. If he was to find Kurapika, that would be the quickest way. All he needed to do was track down his lover's aura signature.
He continued back the way he came while taking the time necessary to be sure and check every area thoroughly.
Naturally, he would be able to discern where Kurapika was located once the blond touched his field of En, which luckily he could extend to nearly a hundred-meter radius. And even then, Chrollo knew he would recognize his Kurta lover instantly by his Nen signature.
First, he just needed to detect the presence of other people, and from there, he would figure out which one was Kurapika. It would also tell him where their target was.
He pressed onward, the continuous pull to find Kurapika driving him to move forward without hesitation. Regardless, he was not leaving without his lover or the eyes.
Though, if something did happen to Kurapika and his lover was hurt, or otherwise, Chrollo wasn't sure how he would react. The idea of someone causing the younger man pain invoked a twinge of anger to simmer just beneath the surface of his skin - which was an emotion he rarely showed. But just thinking about it made his hands clench into fists. If his suspicions turned out to be accurate, and Kurapika really was worse off than he suspected, Chrollo wasn't about to hold back. As difficult it seemed to retain composure and keep his emotions in check, the notion of someone hurting Kurapika angered him more than anything.
No one touched Kurapika as the blond was his and his alone. But it wasn't only that, he simply couldn't stand the thought of someone else causing his lover harm. If anyone tried to so much as lay a finger on him, Chrollo would be sure they wouldn't live long enough to tell the tale. It was a testament of just how much Kurapika meant to him.
It was another aspect he had, along with the strong urge and desire to protect Kurapika. In truth, Chrollo didn't want to come off as overbearing as Kurapika was able and skilled in his own right, but not only was his lover beautiful, he was also the last remaining Kurta, and that made him a viable target.
Which Chrollo knew all too well. It was the same two facets that initially drew him towards the younger man.
Another sigh exited past his lips as he briskly made his way back towards their assigned meeting point, his pulse nearly racing as he did.
The hallway where he and Kurapika separated at soon came into view, and it was all Chrollo could do to keep himself from darting towards the room they came through. As his fingers reached for the knob, something strange, foreign, and unknown touched the edges of his En field. Chrollo stopped abruptly just as the faint sound of laughter drifted to his ears.
Instantly his attention was drawn back to the hallway on both sides of him, but the swirling darkness made it difficult to see. Yet, there was no mistaking it. Someone or something was there as his skin alone pricked from the sensation. Whether or not it was close, Chrollo had yet to discern, but there definitely was a presence nearby.
Chrollo retracted his hand from the cold metal in front of him and straightened his back. Again, there was another chuckle that seemed to emanate from all around him. The sound echoed through the hallway, and it seemed to come from everywhere but nowhere at the same time. Pinpointing the origins was nearly impossible as he couldn't tell who it was or where they were even with his En. Unless what he felt was actually Kurapika and not whoever was incessantly laughing.
Then again, if it was Kurapika who had touched his En, he would have felt his lover's Nen signature as well. Which he didn't. Chrollo's lips twisted into a frown as he peered the darkness around him.
It appeared the situation was growing progressively dire as Chrollo was left with more questions than he had in answers. The notion that Kurapika had possibly run into trouble seemed to become more likely, especially knowing that he hadn't managed to locate his lover either physically or through his Nen. Which left only one other plausible option.
Either he was hearing things, or the source of the laughter was coming from the only other person that could have possibly been inside the mansion with them.
"Who is there?" Chrollo finally decided to question, though his voice was flat.
Several minutes passed, and there was nothing but silence, which only stretched the limits of his patience. Chrollo was definitely in no mood to be toyed with, and the increasing need to find Kurapika made it even less tolerable.
Again, there was another bout of laughter, almost like maniacal giggling and Chrollo pressed his lips into a tight, thin line out of exasperation.
"Ah, I see you are confused as to what is going on." A voice suddenly cut through the stillness, and Chrollo was nearly caught entirely unaware. His eyes darted about, everything around him entirely under his scrutiny as he scanned for the source of the voice. "It's clear on your face," the voice added, "but I can assure you that you won't remain as such for long."
More laughter came subsequently, almost as if it was taunting him, which annoyed Chrollo further. "Who are you?" He demanded this time and turned when something else came into contact with his En field. However, Chrollo saw nothing in or around his immediate vicinity. The prospect that he was being strung along continued to incense him. It was one thing he thoroughly hated. "Show yourself," Chrollo added firmly.
The voice tsked. "Now, now, I don't think you are in any position to make demands." It said, mockery clear in the tone. "You will learn soon enough of my identity, but for now, I think you should be explaining exactly why you are here. I most certainly wasn't expecting any guests."
Unbelievable. Chrollo was able to quickly formulate that whoever it was, had no intention of cooperating in any way. Though he did have his suspicions on just who it was as the insolence he could sense from the other left him with that particular conclusion. Not that he was about to deal with any foolery regardless.
"How about I tell you once you answer my questions?" Chrollo responded curtly and was instantly met with more laughter. The person or entity was obviously amused.
"Now, now, getting a bit hasty, are we?" He heard the voice say. Chrollo was really astonished by just how impudent it sounded. Surely they must not have a clue as to exactly who he was. The notion left Chrollo amazed. "I would advise against it, all considering." It added, though there was an underlying tone of stringency this time.
"Coming from the one that remains hidden within the cloak of shadows. Which is a clear sign of cowardice."
There was another pause, and for a moment, Chrollo wondered if he had possibly struck a nerve. The thought caused a faint smile to creep over his lips.
"I wouldn't get too cocky if I were you." The voice counter-argued, but with more vitriol. It seemed that whoever or whatever was watching him, had finally gotten agitated. Such was evident from the contempt lacing the words he heard.
He had a hard time understanding why there would even be any notion to cooperate. Not only was the taunting becoming increasingly tiresome, but the fact that he was also being waylayed from his current objective only added to his annoyance. It seemed that no matter how acute his perception was or just how far he was able to extend his En, Chrollo couldn't seem to get a fix on where the other presence was.
Underneath it all, he knew something was there, whether it was a person or otherwise - though the prospect of it actually being a person seemed to be the most likely - he was still unable to perceive their location.
For one such as he, with his skill and caliber, the very instance frustrated him as Chrollo was one of the few who had such sharp preternatural senses and perception.
Chrollo hissed between his teeth. "What are you planning to do? The fact you refuse to show yourself speaks volumes, and yet, you continue to try and pull strings. If you really expect to be taken seriously, then you actually need to face me."
Without deviation, Chrollo kept his statement firm while not letting any of his emotions show. Which was hard to do nonetheless. He had made it a point so long ago never to allow himself to falter or let his equanimity waver, but concealing it when he knew that Kurapika needed him was more than difficult. In truth, the young blond Kurta really was his Achilles' heel.
No matter, however. Even if Kurapika made him vulnerable, Chrollo didn't wish to change a thing. His lover meant too much to him to do otherwise. It was the reason why there was such a pressing need to reach him.
Once again, the voice laughed, mirth now replacing the intensity that was once there. "If you would really like to know, then perhaps speaking of the young man you were with would hold some significance?" Again, there was another pause before the voice continued. "As I am quite sure that it would."
Instantly, Chrollo felt himself bristle, the very hackles on the back of his neck rising at the mention of Kurapika. Hearing it only confirmed his suspicions. "What have you done with Kurapika?" He demanded while still trying to seek out the source of the voice. "Tell me where he is." Chrollo's worst fears were coming to pass.
More laughter proceeded his statement, and Chrollo could sense the last of his patience waning. He didn't feel like sticking around to deal with the asininity of some hidden foe. If it came to it, he would come back later and kill whoever it was that dared to ridicule him.
Although Chrollo was certain on just who it was, goading it out of them was becoming harder than he originally anticipated.
The voice tsked once more. "Now, I won't tell you exactly where your companion is, but I will say that he's safe. For the time being." There was a brief moment of silence before the voice continued. "I have plans in mind for him, so I don't intend on allowing you anywhere near the place he's being kept, but you can rest assured that I will take good care of him."
This time, Chrollo narrowed his eyes, a dark expression crossing over his features. "You better not lay a finger on him. If he is harmed in any way, I will kill you."
Loud and boisterous laughter filled the room. "Is that so? Making threats now?"
"No," Chrollo stated almost immediately, "it's a promise."
Nothing was said for a few seconds, then the voice proceeded to speak again. "If you think you can find me, you're welcome to try. In the meantime, your companion remains my guest. Try and rescue him if you can."
The presence then vanished. Chrollo was no longer able to sense it, but the other aura signature he picked up from before was still there. Though, no matter how much he attempted to determine the exact location, it seemed to be just out of range.
After what he heard, there was no doubt that it was Kurapika.
Regardless, time was of the essence, and tracking down his lover was now more crucial than ever. If the one he had spoken to was Debron Cloch as speculated, then he needed to reach Kurapika quickly.
Chrollo felt regret swell in his gut, and he criticized himself for allowing the blond to go alone. It was one of the few times where he really should have been more attentive to their situation.
Next time, he vowed to keep Kurapika close. No one would take his lover away from him, especially some lunatic scientist.
He turned resolutely toward the direction he sensed the aura signature coming from and began making his way towards it, desperate to reach Kurapika. In the meantime, Chrollo hoped that his lover would stay safe until then.
Tick. Tick. Another vibration rang from the bars as the small rock contacted its metallic surface. Each time it collided against them, a tinkling sound echoed throughout the room, but it also gave the faintest idea of just how thick they actually were.
He let it hit the bars that were closest to him, and Kurapika could feel the resonation it produced through his fingers, yet he focused on trying to get some idea of what he was really up against.
And not only that, but he also figured that if, by any stroke of luck, the sound would be loud enough to be heard outside the lab. His bets were on Chrollo hearing it from inside the room which the lab entrance was located in.
Of course, there was still the aspect of his lover actually managing to find it, but if his assumptions were correct, then Chrollo was already looking for him. Considering just how perceptive and astute the older man was, it shouldn't take him long to find the lab and what lay just beyond. Kurapika was ready to be free of his infernal prison.
Then again, there was also the problem of Chrollo finding him before Debron Cloch had the chance to do anything heinous. With how maniacal the man sounded, it left Kurapika with a twinge of worry, especially knowing that he was clearly obsessed with not only the Scarlet Eyes but also with his clan.
Upon his initial inspection, he didn't notice the extent of all the items scattered about the room. Yet, after spending several hours stuck behind thick, metal bars, Kurapika had the chance to lay his eyes on the several Kurtan relics and artifacts that sat across the room on a shelf.
Seeing them added to his already simmering vexation, but it also confirmed just how fixated the man really was. Such was evident with how interested Debron was in him after learning his actual identity.
Knowing that caused knots to form in his stomach.
It made the need to escape even more imperative. Kurapika wasn't about to continue sitting around until the madman decided to make him into some kind of plaything. Whatever sick and twisted ideas Debron had planned for him only increased Kurapika's desperation to break free. Even if there was a chance of him drawing unwanted attention from rapping on the bars with the stone, he had decided it was a risk worth taking if it could help Chrollo find him.
So, he continued, the chiming sound filling the room.
Whether or not hours had passed since he began his intrepid campaign, Kurapika wasn't sure, but the prospect of defeating his captor was a self-driving force that kept him from ceasing.
In no way was he about to give in. He had a future to look forward to - Chrollo had taught him that much.
Kurapika clutched the stone tighter within his grasp and upped the pace. Finding the rock had been a matter of sheer luck, or perhaps convenience? He figured it had fallen from the ceiling after the enclosure had dropped, but the aspect of its origins was inconsequential. All that mattered was the fact it gave him even the faintest leverage possible of extricating himself from the cage surrounding him.
Tink, tink, tink.
The sound perpetually filled the air within the room, and although its reverberating melody was marginally comforting, the tone had recalled something to mind.
He remembered reading once about military operatives, secret agents, and other governmental factions using a form of communication called Morse Code. It was an effective way of delivering messages to related parties via the usage of sounds derived from words corresponding with specific tones or beeps. Kurapika had also remembered taking a particular interest in the topic and studied it during his earlier years, which gave him a basic grasp and understanding of the idea.
For several moments he tried to think of how a generic message would be comprised of Morse Code, then it struck him. Kurapika began to rap furiously at the metal at varying intervals.
If you are hearing this, I am being held in a secret laboratory behind the mantlepiece in the library. Please hurry.
Assuming that luck was still on his side, then he would be able to get word to Chrollo of his exact location. Hopefully, his lover knew the code.
Several times Kurapika rapped out the message, praying that it wafted far enough through the mansion to reach Chrollo, especially with the air vents he noticed that were situated around the circumference of the laboratory.
"I wouldn't continue doing that if I were you." A voice called to him, and Kurapika looked up to see Debron standing there while grinning menacingly at him. "It's not as if anyone will hear you down here anyway."
The maniac scientist strode over to him, and with a heeled boot, he kicked the stone unceremoniously from Kurapika's hand. Debron grinned caustically at the look of surprise that formed over the young man's face as a result.
Watching his captive become flustered while invoking hopelessness and despair was something he took tremendous and personal delight in. There was nothing like making someone feel the weight of sheer misery and anguish. Seeing one fall to the grips of utter sorrow only engendered a higher sense of satisfaction in him.
It was the same thing he saw wavering behind Kurapika's eyes. There was a flicker of uncertainty within those enchanting blues, and Debron found it absolutely mesmerizing.
Breaking the young man was one of his goals, aside from the notion of being given a chance to actually study a living, breathing, Kurta, along with the inner workings of the Scarlet Eyes. The very idea made him practically giddy with excitement.
He couldn't wait to begin experimenting. There was so much knowledge to be had, and he intended to claim it all. Debron could only imagine just how valuable that information would be to the scientific world or the world in general. It had been seven years since the Kurtas had gone virtually extinct - except for the one survivor who sat in front of him behind closely guarded metal - and no one had the chance to research them thoroughly. Until now.
Only one obstacle remained, and that was the dark-haired man whom the Kurta had been with. However, considering how well hidden he kept his lab, Debron was confident that Kurapika's accomplice would never manage to locate them. Well, not before he was finished with his research, and there was nothing left to find.
Keeping the young man alive after completing his research was severely debatable. Even if that made the Kurtas entirely defunct.
"Then you don't know my companion very well," Kurapika growled, and he inched back slightly. Being in such close proximity to the crazed scientist caused the hairs on the back of his neck to rise. Even the man's aura had a sickly feel to it. "He won't relent until he finds me, I can guarantee that."
Briefly, a look of contemplation formed over Debron's face, and the man seemed to study him inquisitively before tilting his head ever so slightly. "Oh, I highly doubt that." He mused and then fished for a ring of keys from within the pocket of his lab coat. There was a jiggling sound as Debron proceeded to place one of them in the lock on the cage. "You just happened to find my laboratory by a stroke of dumb luck, I can say it won't be the same for your companion. I ensured that he won't find the entrance by any means possible." A click emanated from it, then he reached over to pull the door open. He stopped just outside, his gaze boring down into the young man's own. "You'll be lucky if he manages to recover what is left of you after I am done." He added and slowly stepped inside.
Kurapika instantly became guarded as the premonitory sensation caused him to become tense. Without his Nen, all he had at his disposal was his fists for unarmed combat. Regardless of that notion, he was filled with uncertainty on exactly what Debron was capable of.
The man had already managed to force him into a state of Zetsu, which put him at a significant disadvantage, and now there was a sinister, evil air surrounding the other. It made Kurapika recoil, almost crushing his will. The impact of it alone nearly made him succumb.
Just how Debron managed to have such an effect on him, Kurapika didn't know. He couldn't detect any traces of Nen on the man unless he was a master at concealing it with In.
So many possibilities and Kurapika was pressed for his life hung in the balance. He had to think quickly as that meant survival.
His muscles tensed further as he grew rigid, eyes slowly bleeding into a blazing, defiant red while anger and hate seethed just below the surface of his skin. "Don't come any closer, you bastard," Kurapika snarled, and his hands balled into fists. "Stay the hell away from me!"
Witnessing the man's bold advancement made Kurapika feel cornered. He was like an animal caught in the grips of a trap, nowhere left to run and at the mercy of a complete lunatic. All he could do was fight, and Kurapika planned on using his keen senses along with his adept skills to protect his own hide.
As Debron crept towards him, it sent a noticeable chill down his spine and into his very bones. Kurapika fell into a defensive stance, his fists ready to impact whatever came near him.
And right before Kurapika could land a decisive blow to Debron's face, he suddenly felt the wind go out of him entirely as his knees buckled then contacted the floor. Remnants of pain shot through his abdomen, and Kurapika doubled over.
It took all he had to regain his lost breath, and just as he did, Kurapika looked up to see Debron looming over him as the man placed his boot back to the ground.
"I did say it was in your best interests to cooperate." He stated mockingly and kneeled down to face the blond. Debron then took the young man's chin between his fingers and forced him to look up. "Now, you had to go and make things more difficult." In the next instant, he jerked Kurapika forward before mercilessly shoving him to the floor and binding his wrists in cold metal. Afterward, he backed away and stood.
Everything happened so fast that it took several moments for Kurapika's brain to catch up, but when it did, he struggled to catch his breath. Between the pain and feeling the warmth of blood trailing down his lip - which he figured got busted from how hard he contacted the floor - Kurapika struggled to reorient himself. Eventually, he was able to lift his head and glare hatefully at the man from behind his golden locks.
"Damn you," Kurapika uttered in a raspy tone as he struggled feebly against his bindings. "I won't let you do this," he continued, his eyes now a fiery, but deadly shade of scarlet, "I won't!" Again, he tried to rally himself by rising to his feet, only to be cruelly thrust back to the floor, his cheek being ground into the cold tiling as a boot abruptly pressed to the side of his head.
"That's enough out of you," Debron said as he placed weight behind his heel for added emphasis. "You will come along quietly. Those shackles around your wrists are made from the same metal as the bars on this cage. So, don't go and get any ideas." Without thought or care, he wound his fingers into Kurapika's clothes and pulled him harshly upright. Kurapika barely had any time to right himself before Debron shoved him forward and out of the cage.
Once they were past the door, he attempted to reach out for his aura, but to no avail. Just as the crazed man said, even his bindings restricted him from using Nen.
As they moved, Debron led him around like an animal on display, the man shoving him forward relentlessly if he failed to keep pace. Soon, he was drawn into a smaller room just off the central part of the lab, and Kurapika's attention immediately landed on a crude-looking metal table that sat in the center. In several spots, he noticed there were thick leather straps that seemed to be used for holding down something or someone.
Looking at it made Kurapika's blood chill as he was inadvertently pushed towards it.
"What are you going to do to me?" He questioned while attempting to gaze back at the man from over his shoulder.
A sinister, wicked smile had wrenched its way over Debron's face, and he looked exactly like the devil. "Oh, you will find out soon enough." The man responded sweetly before everything suddenly went black.
Yet another room that showed no signs of usage while yielding no results.
Chrollo began to wonder if he was being sent on a wild goose chase or purposely led astray. It had been well over an hour since he had started searching for Kurapika, and he was no closer to locating his lover then he did in the beginning. The notion made him question if he would manage to find the younger man at all.
Every aspect of it frustrated Chrollo to the point that he felt like a raging storm was slowly brewing in the back of his mind. The intensity of it caught him unawares since it was a rarity that he lost his temper or composure, and specifically to the extent of what he was currently experiencing.
Usually, he would approach any situation with clarity and rational while choosing to view it from every conceivable angle before making a decision.
Now, he simply wanted to kill the asshole who had been causing him so much grief by taking someone precious away from him.
When it came down to it, the only real thing that incensed him enough to react uncharacteristically or without forbearance was Kurapika. Even his spiders didn't amount to the preponderance that his lover held.
The Genei Ryodan would live on without him if he were to die, and regardless of his friendships with them being something that he cherished, Kurapika meant the entire world to him. No one else had managed to enrich his life or change it in a significant way as Kurapika had. Because of that and the love they shared, it was every reason why Chrollo had no regrets for the way it made him react.
Quelling the tempest within would be no easy task, if not impossible, but Chrollo cared not if he ended up just letting it all go. He was already angry that his lover had been captured, but if a single hair was out of place by the time he found Kurapika, then he wouldn't be responsible for the outcome it would invoke.
Even then, he may just wind up killing the man regardless of circumstance.
Chrollo exited the room in disappointment and stepped back into the dimly lit hallway. It was unbelievable how large the mansion actually was. That alone made his search much more difficult, even though he was able to detect the faint traces of other presences within the home through his En.
And yet, he was prepared to tear the entire place apart to find Kurapika. As he told his comrades, nothing would keep him away from the younger man. It was no different now.
His footsteps echoed through the empty hallway as he continued to traverse them, urgency in each step as he moved. There were so many rooms that hadn't been checked, but he made a point to enter each one. Chrollo last knew that Kurapika was left to investigate the west side of the mansion, but from the neglected state of the rooms, there was no telling exactly which ones he had been in.
So, he was left with relying on chance and the faint hints of aura he detected.
Hastily, Chrollo approached the door to another room he hadn't checked yet, and as his fingers reached for the knob, a rapping like sound as if metal was getting banged on resounded through the wall and he immediately stopped. The noise continued in rapid succession as if it was on a constant loop, which made it seem more strange than not.
It appeared to emanate from everywhere, which made it hard for Chrollo to pinpoint the source, so he attempted to discern the general direction by focusing on where it was the loudest. Once he managed to figure that out, the Spider leader prepared to head in that direction when something else about the rapping caught his attention.
The more he listened to it, the more it seemed like a composition of unique sounds.
As it persisted, there was a specific pattern he noticed that would repeat itself. Also, the intervals between each one were the same each time. That alone spoke it was more than mere coincidence and eliminated any possibility of the noise being generated by something inanimate.
Then, it hit him - the rapping wasn't just specific patterning, but a message that was being conveyed through the usage of sound. He knew there was a form of communication that used the same method called Morse Code, which turned out to be an effective way of secretly transmitting information without detection. Chrollo was positive that was being used here.
He listened attentively as the sounds finally turned into words.
If you are hearing this, I am being held in a secret laboratory behind the mantlepiece in the library. Please hurry.
There was no doubt about it: the message was from Kurapika. His lover had managed to find the lab after all.
But now his fears were also confirmed. The Kurta was indeed being held captive. At least he had an idea of where to look.
Fury swelled inside of him, and Chrollo didn't attempt to hold it back. He would reach Kurapika and rescue the younger man from whatever ill-begotten plans were awaiting him. And if anything happened to him, there would be hell to be reckoned with.
Kurapika awoke to a terrible headache, his vision also blurred as he slowly opened his eyes and realized that everything around him seemed foreign. It took him several moments to get oriented while he attempted to remember what happened, but all he could recall was his temperament raging before his world faded into absolute nothingness.
He went to bring a hand up to his temple, but couldn't. Again he tried, then it struck him - his arms were bound. A breath seized in Kurapika's throat.
Gazing down at his ankles, he noticed that they were also tied down. That was the moment his mind caught up, and he felt the cold metal pressing against his back.
There was no other explanation - he had been strapped down to some kind of table.
Fear instantly welled in the pit of his gut.
Blue eyes darted around frantically as he sought out the exact source of his predicament, and it was then Kurapika heard a sound rustling off to his side just out of his line of sight.
"Ah, I see that you are awake." He heard someone say, and the sound of footsteps followed. "You had been out for quite some time. I had begun to wonder if you would ever regain consciousness."
The face of someone appeared before him, and it only took him a fraction of a second to recognize who it was. Debron Cloch.
Repugnance and indignation boiled within Kurapika as his lips contorted into a scowl. "Where am I?" He growled and jerked roughly against the leather bindings. "And what do you intend to do with me?"
Kurapika sensed something gliding over his cheek and then realized it was the man's fingers. He jerked back as far as he could in utter disgust. Debron hummed at his reaction. "Inquisitive, are we?" He responded in a soft purr. "To answer your first question, you're in my experiment room. As for the other, you'll just have to wait and see."
His grin expanded deviously, and he turned away.
Seconds later, Kurapika heard the tinkling sound of metal instruments, and he could feel abject horror sinking through him. The damn bastard really did mean to examine him.
Desperation bubbled in the back of his mind as Kurapika twisted against his bindings, the intensity of his conviction and willpower alone gave him the strength to keep fighting. He put all he had into ripping the straps from the table that held him in spite of the glaring odds he faced. If he just put enough stress on them, then it should be enough for him to break away.
Only, none of them seemed to budge.
Consternation bled over Kurapika's features.
Following his attempt, the man's face came back into his view, and Kurapika glared at him. The act only made Debron grin even more, which caused his teeth to show.
"You're planning on dissecting me, aren't you?" Kurapika spat, and he watched the scientist vehemently. Every part of him screamed to get away, to fight, to lash out… to kill. The words flashed over and over in his brain, and Kurapika was almost shocked by it. "Sick bastard." He sneered, and then every reason for why his thoughts strayed the way they did, made sense. Instinctual or not. His very life was in danger.
This time, he didn't renounce the desire or the idea. Debron was the epitome of a monster and embodied it in every sense of the word.
Out of his peripheral vision, he was able to see the man holding what looked like a large syringe with strange fluid in it and a rather thick needle. Kurapika could feel his skin practically blanch.
Debron flicked it several times to remove the air within before his attention returned to the blond in front of him. "I actually don't plan to dissect you just yet." He confirmed cheerily and raised the syringe up. "However, I do plan to take my time examining you to learn everything I can. Even down to what gives you the Scarlet Eyes, how they work and hell, I may go so far as to learn more about the nature of Nen and what allows people to use it." Debron then leaned down close to the other, and he could see the sheer malaise within those blue eyes. "That is also something else I have been wanting to expand my knowledge on."
He stood up and observed the young man critically. Debron was sure his statement about Nen would also pique Kurapika's interest. Not too many people - especially Nen users - knew of the fact that he was well aware of what it was and of its very existence.
The surprise which soon laced over those pretty features foretold that he was correct.
"You know about Nen?" Kurapika questioned, his body stilling. "Are you able to use it as well?"
If the man genuinely was a Nen user, how he managed to miss that, Kurapika couldn't quite fathom, but then he was currently in forced Zetsu. It would explain why.
Still, if the man really was a Nen user, that made his situation far worse.
"Oh, I have known about Nen and for a long time," Debron confessed, and his eyes seemed to grow alight with excitement. "While I am not a user myself, I stumbled upon the oddity during my research into human anomalies. It's one way I found out about the Kurtas and their Scarlet Eyes." He placed one hand thoughtfully against his chin while the other retained a hold on the syringe. "Ever since the notion has intrigued me, and now I get to experiment on someone with both." An expression of sheer glee shone on his features, and Debron then positioned the needle to an exposed area on Kurapika's arm. When the tip nearly contacted skin, the young man jerked almost ruthlessly on the table. Watching him was entertaining. "What I am about to give you is a sedative. I can promise that you won't feel a thing." He giggled.
Again, he went to place the needle to Kurapika's bicep when the Kurta's frantic struggling stayed his hand a second time. Displeasure replaced his enthusiasm, and Debron sighed in annoyance as he was tired of wasting time dealing with his captive's antics.
However, the lull in Debron's movement gave Kurapika the advantage he needed to try and stall for more time. Again, he searched for any connection to his Nen but realized there still wasn't any. Which told him the table was possibly made of the same type of neutralizing material as the bars on the cage and cuffs that were around his wrists.
So, he maneuvered his hands in such a way that it allowed him to test the capacity of the straps while his focus remained intently on the deranged man.
"You're mad," Kurapika said tersely, his body growing tense from the immense strain on him. Even the experience was having an adverse reaction on his mind. Sighing, Kurapika fought to remain determinant. "How can you expect to gain information on Nen and how it's harnessed through biological experimentation? It's not that easy." He finally realized that one of the straps around his wrists wasn't as secure, and he pulled on it slightly to loosen it further. "Nen is a natural aspect of all living things. It takes someone skilled to utilize it."
Ever so slowly, Kurapika began to work at it, causing the leather to pull away from the table. Given a chance, he would be able to work it loose just enough so he could wrench his hand free. He just had to maintain the madman's attention long enough for that to happen.
Debron hummed again, then tilted his head curiously. "How so?" Disbelief crawled over his visage, and he knitted his brows together in doubt. "You really think nothing can be accomplished through the means of science? Preposterous!" Without hesitation, he roughly placed both hands on the table next to Kurapika, the syringe now resting beneath his palm. Debron peered at him from over his glasses. "Even the fundamentals can be explained through science. There isn't anything in this world that can't be deduced this way."
Following his statement, Debron straightened and cleared his throat after calming down from his impermanent tirade. Once he managed to gain some repose, Debron pushed his glasses up along the bridge of his nose, and for an instant, his features darkened, but then his fanatical state returned. The syringe was once again, betwixt his fingers as he was dead set on tranquilizing the young man.
It seemed as if their symposium was being drawn out, which was only a useless delay of the inevitable. For some reason, the notion made Debron wonder if the Kurta was merely stalling for time. He snorted.
Nothing was going to hinder him from acquiring the knowledge he had been seeking. If Kurapika thought that his defiance would impede the expected outcome, then he was in for a rude awakening.
"Is that what you believe?" Kurapika retorted and shook his head unsympathetically. The man really was a quack. "Then you're even more deluded than I had anticipated."
Almost instantly, Debron's features morphed into something diabolical, and Kurapika could have sworn he saw the bowls of hell blazing behind the madman's dark eyes.
The scientist leaned in close. "Then I will show you just how wrong you are," Debron drawled, his voice low and impious. He gripped Kurapika's arm despite the young man began jerking again and placed the needle one more time against his skin, intent on injecting him as initially planned.
Finally, he would be able to commit to the research he so longed to do.
"Do not proceed any further." A voice cut through the audible silence, and Debron halted immediately before turning away from his captive to look behind him. A figure clad in dark clothing strode from the shadows and glared straight at him. He instantly recognized the other infiltrator. "Take your hands off of him, or it will be the last thing you ever do."
Relief washed over Kurapika the moment he realized that Chrollo was also in the room. For a time, he had wondered if his lover would have ever found him, especially before the lunatic had the chance to cut him open. Any longer and Debron may just have. Kurapika continued to try and work free of his bindings as Chrollo came closer to them.
Getting disrupted from his task repeatedly had started to weigh heavily on his nerves, and Derbon watched the newcomer disapprovingly. He really didn't think the dark-haired man was going to find them. It was absolutely vexing.
Reluctantly, he turned entirely away from Kurapika. "I am surprised you managed to find this place," Debron stated and pushed his glasses up again. If he wanted to perform his experiments in peace, then he had no choice but to dispose of the other man. The fact he had to be inconvenienced by it only made things worse. He was already feeling annoyed by all the delays as is. "Honestly, I should have done away with you last time, but no matter. I don't plan to let you leave this place now."
Whatever it took, he would ensure that no one got in his way. He had come too far for it all to end in failure.
Obstantenly, he stood between Kurapika and the other infiltrator, determined not to let the man any closer.
It was something that didn't go unnoticed by Chrollo as he was able to detect Debron's motive instantly. His actions were unmistakable. Whether or not it was intended, Chrollo didn't know. But the fact the man was foolish enough to challenge him brought a smile to his face.
Chrollo cracked his neck, then slipped his Benz knife from the sleeve of his coat and into the palm of his hand. "I'd like to see you try." He commented while eyeing the syringe the man was holding. Seeing it made him dart forward without hesitation.
"Well then," Debron grinned and clutched his fingers tightly around the syringe. He hadn't quite planned to use the sedative on someone else, but considering the circumstances, he would make an exception. "I suppose I have no other choice. I am not letting you take him away from me." And he mirrored the dark-haired man as Debron sprung ahead, the needle poised to bury itself into flesh wherever possible.
The metallic surface of it flashed beneath the fluorescent lighting, and Chrollo was able to dodge just before the needle could be implanted into his shoulder. Swiftly, his left hand snapped forward to grab the man's wrist and hold it back, but the man had somehow managed to swap the syringe into his other hand, and Chrollo just missed getting stabbed by it on his other side.
Debron's furtive move caused him to step back, but only enough for him to evaluate the situation. The man was fast, Chrollo had to give him that, yet, it wasn't enough to hinder or stop him. It was clear that Debron didn't know who he actually was. Which ultimately gave him the upper hand. The blade of his Benz knife seemed to ache with an insatiable need to taste blood. All he had to do was cut the man with it, and the poison would be enough to disable him.
Or kill him.
Preferably the latter, Chrollo thought. The wretched fucker had the gall to capture, bind, and tie-down Kurapika then was impudent enough to try and experiment on him. Thinking about it, and even looking at the needle clutched in the maniac's hand was enough to incite his anger. Chrollo's stormy grey eyes flashed with a fury rarely seen, and he took off without demurral, his aim solely at dropping his foe.
No matter what, he wouldn't let any harm come to Kurapika. He would protect his lover no matter what.
"Don't count on that," Chrollo stated as he tried to take advantage of the man's blindspot, the blade directed right at his neck. "You really have no idea who I am." However, before it could connect, Debron managed to lean to the side, and it slipped right past him. The reaction made Chrollo rebound, but he was able to glide back around easily.
The grin on the scientist's face expanded further. "That may be so," Debron countered, "but what I do know is that you broke into my home, ransacked my laboratory to steal the Scarlet Eyes, and now you want to take away the only other thing that will allow me to unlock the mystery of both the Kurtas and Nen. You're nothing more than an intruder who needs to be eliminated." Once the words left his lips, Debron rushed forward hastily, both desperation and need precipitating him into bringing the other man to his knees.
It drove him without cognize or rationale; the only thing Debron could think of was dispensing his target so he could preserve his research.
His expression grew more maniacal, deranged. The wild, unhinged look to his dark eyes gave Chrollo pause, but he carefully observed the man. There was no denying just how far gone he really was. It was evident in his actions alone. Debron was crazed, and the sooner he ended their little altercation, the better.
Chrollo ignored Debron's rant and prepared to counter the scientist's onslaught. Right before the needle could find purchase inside his arm he moved out of the way and delivered a well-calculated punch to the man's abdomen. Debron straggled backward but looked almost entirely unphased.
"Damn you." He hissed, tongue clicking as he did. "You're only delaying the inevitable." And without warning, Debron turned away from the dark-haired man to refocus his attention on his captive. This time, he took his demand one step further and slipped back around the exam table to position the needle tip against Kurapika's neck. "If you don't cease and desist this instant, then I will make it so that he falls into a permanent slumber."
Ingenious! He should have thought of it before. If the infiltrator wanted to prevent the loss of his partner, then he would do everything exactly as told. Debron pressed the needle against Kurapika's skin for added emphasis, and the young man squeaked in protest.
The whole time Kurapika was forced to watch the entire exchange in complete distress. It was bad enough that he was unable to assist Chrollo during his fight with Debron, but when the maniac's attention turned back on him, Kurapika was caught between hope and utter despair. Fear swelled behind his eyes when he felt the syringe at his neck, and all he could do was cast a silent plea at his lover.
Debron's threat made Chrollo instantly drop out of his offensive stance, and his gaze shifted towards Kurapika. He could see fear clearly etched all over his lover's face, which made his attention travel back to the madman once more. Now the bastard had taken things too far.
"You really don't know when to back down," Chrollo stated flatly, and discreetly slipped his hand toward the medical tray that Debron had carelessly abandoned to pick up a pair of metal forceps. "That will be one strike against you. However," and without warning, he chucked the instrument at Debron, successfully knocking the syringe from the man's hand, "you should know to never turn your back on an enemy." With that, Chrollo darted behind Debron before restraining him, the tip of his Benz knife now at the man's throat. "Any skilled thief with a Class A bounty on their head would never make such a grave mistake."
Realization instantly bloomed over his face at the infiltrator's words, and Debron's eyes went wide from disbelief. He should have known. "You're the leader of the Genei Ryodan…" Debron breathed, and it was the first time in longer than he could remember that fear welled within him. Even his heart began to race.
Hearing the response brought satisfaction to Chrollo, although he was well past the clemency stage. The man threatening Kurapika as he had was a dealbreaker for him. Chrollo already made his decision. "That I am." He confirmed. "And I don't take kindly to those who try and take away what is mine," Chrollo added and then plunged his Benz knife into Debron's side before he could speak further. The man's body immediately went lip within his grip.
He retracted his knife before letting Debron slip to the floor. Blood slowly seeped from the wound to mar the white tiled floor beneath him. "I guess that was a mistake on my part," he weakly muttered and felt his body start to grow cold. Tendrils of crimson trailed down from his nose and mouth as he found it hard to breathe. Even his vision had turned blurry. "But I never really had a chance in the end," Debron added, and his arm slipped to the side as the syringe rolled away. He took several more breaths before stilling completely.
Chrollo watched as the last of the light faded from Debron's eyes, then stood after stowing the knife away. He stepped over the body and went instantly to Kurapika's side. There was dismay in the younger man's eyes.
"You're safe now," Chrollo spoke softly and began to remove the leather straps that bound his lover to the exam table. Afterward, he helped Kurapika sit up before draping his coat over the younger man's shoulders.
It took Kurapika several moments to process what happened, but once he did, relief washed over him. "Chrollo." He whispered as the older man promptly scooped him up into those strong, powerful arms. Instantly, his head came to rest against Chrollo's shoulder. There just was no strength left in him to do otherwise. The entire ordeal had practically taken everything out of him. "I thought you would never come," Kurapika added as Chrollo tightened his hold on him.
A grin formed over his lips at the statement, but Chrollo leaned in to kiss the side of Kurapika's temple. "And what made you think that?" He responded and gingerly carded his fingers through his lover's silken locks. "In no way would I have left here without you."
He cradled Kurapika against him. As usual, his lover felt awfully light for his stature, but he would ensure that Kurapika made a full recovery. Chrollo could only imagine what type of ordeal he went through during the time he was Debron's captive.
At least the duration of time Kurapika had been in the man's presence was short, and it could have been much worse, but at least it was over. He was grateful for that much.
"I know that you would never leave me behind. I just didn't think you would make it in time before that lunatic had the chance to do any permanent damage," Kurapika admitted, and the thought made him shiver. "But that is no longer a concern."
"If he had," Chrollo added, "I don't know what I would have done, but I don't have to worry about that now." He adjusted his hold on Kurapika to ensure his lover was secure, then glanced over at Debron's body one last time. The blood had since formed a considerable ring around him. "How about we get out of here?" Chrollo asked quietly when his eyes landed back on Kurapika.
Who also cast a look of pity towards where Debron lay in his invariable slumber, and he said one final prayer although the man really didn't deserve it. He then turned his attention back towards Chrollo. "Yes. I am eager to be gone from this place." Kurapika expelled a breath. "The eyes are in the other room. We just need to get them before leaving."
Chrollo nodded as they exited the small room and back into the central part of the laboratory. It didn't take him long to locate the eyes as they had been placed on a table at the far end of the room. He gently put Kurapika down before going to retrieve the canisters and stow them within Fun Fun cloth.
Once all the eyes were secure, he picked Kurapika back up and they soon exited Debron's mansion while slowly making their way back to Odaria.
Kurapika had spent an indefinite amount of time taking a shower. The water was soothing and comforting as the warmth over his body aided in removing some of the stiffness from his tired, agonizing muscles. Yet, one thing he couldn't seem to remove was the feel of that bastard's hands on him. No matter how many times he scrubbed, even until his skin turned raw, Kurapika just couldn't get rid of the sensation.
At some point, he gave up trying and exited the tub before proceeding to dry his hair, then the rest of himself. Because he felt so weak, it was hard to stand for too long, and Kurapika didn't even bother to dress as he stumbled back out into the main room.
He made his way towards the bed when his eyes found Chrollo sitting in a chair. The older man had given him the space to bathe and recoup after returning to their hotel room, but now, the last thing Kurapika wanted was to be alone.
Chrollo looked up from the book he had been reading, and their eyes met. "Are you alright, babe?" He asked, and just as he set the book aside to get up, Kurapika clambered into his lap. Immediately he embraced the younger man and pulled him close. One of his hands found its way into Kurapika's hair.
"I am now," Kurapika said, and closed his eyes before nuzzling against his lover's neck. He breathed in, and Chrollo's scent instantly filled his head. The aroma relaxed him further. "Just hold me. Please." He added softly.
Obliging Kurapika's request, Chrollo pulled him even closer as his fingers gently stroked through those golden strands, the stress his lover had gone through was evident in just how tense that slender body felt. It was no wonder why. Kurapika had been through a lot. "You're not cold?" He inquired and kissed along his lover's cheek and jaw softly.
"Not really," Kurapika commented, but he was sure that Chrollo wouldn't believe him. While he did feel a twinge of cold from the low temperature in the room, the warmth of his lover's body helped to stave that. He smiled to add emphasis to his words.
Chrollo raised an eyebrow at Kurapika's response, knowing it couldn't have been entirely correct since his lover was virtually naked, but humored him nonetheless. Instead, Chrollo reached over to retrieve his coat from the chair beside him and pulled back just enough to get it around Kurapika's body before drawing the Kurta against him again. "There, I think that is better," Chrollo added coyly before taking the younger man's lips tenderly with his own.
There was no hesitation when Chrollo insisted on wrapping his coat around him, nor when his lover drew him into a kiss. Kurapika groaned softly as their lips worked against one another, and for a time, he forgot all else.
For the longest, they stayed that way, the fire of the love between them bringing Kurapika a sense of ease. Although he still felt some trauma over his ordeal, being in Chrollo's arms at least left him feeling safe and secure. There was no other place he wanted to be.
When they broke apart, Kurapika laid his head back on Chrollo's shoulder and closed his eyes again. By the Gods, he was so tired. "I love you." He uttered.
It took a moment for Chrollo to reclaim his breath, but once he did, his nose instantly buried into Kurapika's golden mop. "I love you too, angel." He responded, and from there, he continued to hold Kurapika long into the night.
After Thoughts: Truthfully, I didn't initially intend for Kurapika to go through another traumatic experience so soon after their ordeal with the creatures, but since their most recent missions had been relatively easy, I figured this was the best way to go. It also gave me the ability to delve more into Chrollo's character and how Kurapika makes him vulnerable.
Since RoF deviates from the main timeline of the anime/manga, the only points we see Chrollo lose virtually lose his composure canonically is after Hisoka kills Shalnark and Kortopi, then again on the black whale as they try and find him. So, it seemed to make sense to make Kurapika be his weak spot.
Expect to see more instances like that in the future as they continue their search for the Scarlet Eyes and beyond.
Fun fact: Cloch is Irish for Stone, and inspiration for Debron came from the Dr. Stone anime because of Senku and how enthusiastic and wild he gets over anything science-related. Of course, Senku isn't maniacal as Debron, but the science aspect is what I drew the instance from. :P
Hopefully, of all goes according to plan, chapter forty-three will be out by the end of the month. :)