Time's Up

~Varia Headquarters~

~Ben's POV~

It had been a few days since we'd returned home. After my spar, or would death match be a better term, with Bel things had been rather quiet. Even with that, Jenna had told me that she had a feeling that something wasn't quite right. I'd played it off as her paranoia; she'd always been overly cautious from the time we were young. However, I and the others were to learn that this was one of those times that my sister's feelings weren't a product of her nature.

It was night when we received the summons from a shaking subordinate. Jenna and I along with Squalo were to present ourselves to Xanxus. I had ignored the pointed look my twin had thrown me; I believed that we were about to be congratulated on our retrieval of the Half Vongola Rings. In hindsight I really should have expected what actually occurred to happen. Still Jenna and I met up with Squalo in front of the meeting room's door. Our Captain seemed upset to see us, though given that he and I had similar thoughts in mind that was only to be expected; after all who'd want to share the credit of retrieving such valuable items. Still he threw open the doors with one of his signature shouts.

"VOIIIII! Did you call me, Boss?" he asked as the doors slammed into the wall.

"Well, him and us," I spoke from my position behind Squalo off to the side. I could tell that the Captain was glowering at me, but I wasn't concerned with that. Jenna said nothing, simply standing by my side. The room was empty save for the one who'd called us; Xanxus sat at the head of the table watching the three of us with impassive eyes. I'd always found our Boss to be the hardest to read; he only had two emotions that we saw regularly, indifference and rage. This seemed to be one of the former moments, but with how fast he could switch between the two I'd learned to be on guard.

"I'll gladly accept a reward for bring the Half Vongola Rings," Squalo said pride evident in his voice as he swaggered over to our Boss. Jenna and I followed a marginal distance behind; I'd positioned myself just in front of my sister, though she was perfectly capable of protecting herself. Suddenly Xanxus turned his burning gaze on the swordsman of our group. He quickly grabbed the Captain's head and slammed it onto the table. To his credit all Squalo did was stagger backwards with an incredulous look on his face.

"W-Why did you do that?!" the Captain snarled. I could think of several reasons, and quite a few of them didn't require him to have a reason. But from the look Jenna was sending the way of our two superiors I had a feeling that this time would warrant him an actual reason. As thoughts of that kind rolled through my head I watched as Xanxus slipped off half of the ring on his finger.

Holding it between his index and thumb he spoke, "These are fakes," and with that he preceded to turn the half in his hand to dust. I shared a look with my twin, and found the not uncommon 'I told you so' in her eyes. I rolled my own, but I had to admit that she had known before the rest of us that something wasn't right with how our mission ended. And thinking about it now I'd thought it strange that we hadn't been pursued; the Half Vongola Rings would've definitely been reason enough for someone to chase us down.

"Fakes?" Squalo breathed out. I had to admit that it was a surprise that our Captain hadn't been able to tell the difference; the craftsmanship must've been well done for that to be the case. The fact that fakes had been used at all meant that they'd planned all this, expecting us to snatch them away from the CEDEF member that had them, and that they'd likely been used as a diversion. Though, they'd probably hoped for more time. However, that wasn't in the cards for them; I almost felt sorry for them… almost.

"Iemitsu…" Xanxus trailed off for a moment, though he displayed no outward emotion, "We're heading to Japan, and we will exterminate them."

I almost opened my mouth to complain, but then a look from my sister as well as my own self-preservation instincts had me snapping my mouth shut. With that Xanxus had Squalo leave to gather the others before he turned his gaze to me and my sister. I half expected him to throw something at me, but he just sat back down. I forced myself to remain still, even though it felt like he was staring into my soul… or maybe it was more like he wanted me to burst into flames where I stood. Finally, as the silence was slowly bleeding into the uncomfortable side Xanxus spoke.

"Tell me everything you know of those brats," crimson eyes boring into my green ones. And so, with Jenna's help I did.

~A Couple Days Later; In Japan~

~Yuzuki's POV~

It had been a few days since my unusual trip to the future. I'd kept true to my word with Arashi and had told him everything that had transpired. He'd been skeptical at first, but hadn't really questioned what I said. As it was we'd just finished training with our father for the day. After Chisaki had left, he'd began pushing us to our limits and beyond. The first couple days we'd been so tired that we hadn't been able to do much afterwards. However, our stamina was increasing greatly due to our father's tutelage. And from what I'd heard everyone else's training was going rather well too.

However, something was bugging me. A thought that was always just out of reach skirted around the edges of my mind. I had a feeling that whatever it was would be very important, but I also dreaded catching hold of it. Something told me that if I was able to accomplish that I wouldn't like the result. So I did my best to ignore the thought, even though it made it rather difficult to do so. I was brought out of my thoughts as Arashi nudged me and pointed across the street.

"Isn't that Hiromi and Ryou?" he asked. And indeed it was. The two hadn't seen us and honestly I didn't want them to. Though it wasn't because I disliked them, but it was obvious that they were on a date. So, with just a subtle nod to my brother to confirm his suspicions we continued on. As we continued along I couldn't help but think that things had been going well for us and our friends; a little too well.

"Say Arashi," I began getting my brother's attention, "How many days has it been since those guys stole those fakes?"

"I think eight… maybe nine," Arashi replied, "Why do you ask?"

I hummed, "Well, don't you think that things are going a little too well for us? I mean we've been lucky so far; the fakes must have worked quite well. But even so, these people are supposed to be the best of the best right?" my twin nodded, "Then wouldn't you think that they'd have realized sooner that they've been duped?"

"We can't rule out that possibility, I suppose," my brother said, "But then why haven't they come back yet?"

"I don't know, and honestly I don't think I want to," I replied, "We've gotten stronger these past few days and so have the others, but I'm not sure if it's enough. I guess I'm just scared to fight these people."

Arashi nodded, "Yeah, I know what you mean. Every one of us is scared, and I think we're all probably hoping, though it's a futile hope, that they won't ever figure out those half rings were fake. Still, like you said, we've all gotten stronger and yeah maybe we're not on their level, but maybe we'll at least be able to put up a fight."

"Arashi…" his words made me feel marginally better, but he wasn't done yet.

"I'm tired of sitting on the sidelines while you and the other do all the work. Losing to that guy put a lot of things into perspective for me; including how far I'd fallen after I'd been sick," he held up a hand to stop my protest, "I realize that using that long haired guy as a measure of strength isn't exactly correct, but it's given me a goal to work for. If I can keep up with that guy when they next show up, then I'll have done what I set out to; getting stronger than I was. So, while I am afraid that you're right about things going smoothly for us that doesn't mean that I'm just about to quit now."

I chuckled, "Heh, you're right Arashi. After everything we've gone through, after all the training Dad's helped with, it'd be poor form if we just roll over in defeat now."

Arashi smiled, "Glad I could help, though that being said showing a modicum of caution wouldn't be a bad idea."

I nodded in agreement. The two of us fell into a comfortable silence as we continued walking. We came to the park and set a wave to Kyoko and Haru who were sitting there watching Fuuta, Lambo and I-Pin. They returned the gesture, and then my twin and I were once more on our way. From my side I heard Arashi hum thoughtfully.

"What's on your mind?" I asked. He glanced at me before speaking.

"Nothing that amounts to life or death Yuzuki," he said dispelling my concern instantly, "I just noticed that you've been letting your hair grow out."

~Arashi's POV~

The words were out before I could think better of them; not that Yuzuki really cared about appearances but now that she knew I wondered if she would cut her hair again. Truthfully, it didn't matter that much for me but I knew that she'd liked having long hair when we were younger; she'd only cut when we'd been bullied (over something stupid that didn't really bother us very much), and then only after some idiots had used it to their advantage. It was with these thoughts in mind that I gauged my sister's reaction. For a moment she seemed surprised and I figured that was simply because I'd said something. Then her expression shifted into amusement.

She laughed, "I suppose you're right. I guess with my mind on training I forgot about it. Does it look bad or something?"

I shook my head, "No, you look fine. I was just wondering if you'd cut it again."

"Hmm… I might, but I suppose it depends on if I really have to," Yuzuki said, "After all there aren't too many people here that I have to worry about. And of the one's I do most are friends, and I doubt any of them would pull an underhanded tactic."

I had to agree with her. From what she'd told me about Tsuna, Gokudera and Yamamoto those three would try anything like that should a fight arise; well Gokudera might, but if Tsuna told him not to then he wouldn't dare. Ryohei was a straightforward guy, and I think if my impression of him wasn't wrong, that he'd be upset with a dirty tactic like hair-pulling. The only one I wasn't completely sure of was Hibari, but judging from the fights I'd seen him participate in with my sister I doubted he'd stoop so low as to beat her with such a trick; he, no offense to Yuzuki, could easily take her down with brute force alone.

However, there was the matter of the only person I hadn't met; the one my sister feared might be the Mist Guardian, Mukuro Rokudo. Honestly, I wasn't sure if it was a good or bad thing that I hadn't met him. If I ever did he'd better hope that he could escape me as easily as he'd escaped prison; I wouldn't allow anyone to harm my sister again. But even though I hadn't met him I still doubted that he'd resort to a cheap tactic like that; after all he could conjure realistic illusions coupled with the sensations one would feel if they were real, so hair-pulling was a step down.

"You're probably right about that," I said aloud. My twin smiled then paused. I gave her a puzzled look before realizing where we were; in front of the school. She seemed to be debating something internally. Ultimately she seemed to reach a decision.

"Arashi, you go on ahead," she said eyes on the school, "I want to check something."

"And that would be?" I asked hoping to get clarification. A sharp clang erupted from the top of the building, and I began to understand what my twin was planning.

She glanced at me out of the corner of her eye, "I want to see if Dino-san is still around, and if that sound was anything to go by I'd say he is. I'd like to thank him for the impromptu rescue when we were in the Shopping District, even if he was just looking for Hibari."

"It was because of that, that he was able to help," I reminded her, "If you're sure about going up there now, then I won't stop you. Just try not to get yourself in trouble."

"Thanks Arashi," my twin said, "I promise I do my best not to interrupt the training taking place up there. If it comes down to it I'll just have Romario pass along the message to Dino-san for me."

"Somehow, I don't think it'll be that easy Yuzuki," I said humor in my tone, "But as long as you don't get hurt, badly, then I think things will be fine."

Yuzuki smacked my arm playfully before her face turned serious. It was clear that she was steeling herself for whatever might happen when she reached the roof. I clapped my hand on her shoulder in a sign of support. She gave me a grateful look, but I could tell that my show of support didn't help much. I thought about asking if she wanted me to go with her, but she'd told me to go on ahead though we hadn't been going anywhere in particular.

"I'll see you at home," I said turning back the way we'd come. My twin nodded absently before squaring her shoulders and heading towards the school. With that I began my trek home.

~Namimori Middle~

~Yuzuki's POV~

I swallowed, fighting the urge to run after my brother but I'd already promised myself that I'd thank Dino for the save in the Shopping District. So, with my will firmly steeled I entered the building. The fighting from the roof echoed through the corridors, muffled but it was clear what they were. I stopped my mission at the bottom of the stairs for a moment; doing my utmost to prepare for anything that might happen on the roof. Once I felt more or less ready I headed up to the roof. I paused again at the door trying to gauge how good my luck would be. It didn't take me long to realize that I'd either have to be invisible, extremely fast or just pure lucky to avoid any sort of confrontation with Hibari.

From the sounds beyond the door it was clear that no spot of the roof was safe. Dino must be giving Hibari the fight of his life, or maybe it was the other way around. Still it seemed that I'd have to rely on Romario to pass along my message… if I was even able to get to him. I took a deep breath to steel myself and then opened the door. Thankfully, neither Dino or Hibari had notice my arrival, Romario on the other hand was quick to spot me. With a quick gesture to him I was able to keep him from alerting the two fighting to my presence. Having avoided detection, for the time being, I made sure to quickly rush over to Dino's subordinate.

"Hisoka-san," Romario said eyes on his boss, "what brings you here this fine day?"

I kept watch for danger out of the corner of my eye as I answered him, "I just wanted to say thank you to Dino-san. If he hadn't been looking for Hibari in the Shopping District a while back things might not have ended as well as they did. I'd tell him personally, but he seems to be pretty busy and I rather not let Hibari know I'm here."

Romario nodded, "I can pass along that message if you like."

"I'd appreciate it if you did," I said in return, "Well, I've said my piece so I think I'll be going now."

A slight tilt of the head was all I got from the man, but I didn't blame him. After all I was sorely tempted to watch the fight myself, if not for the fact that I wanted to live past today. Well, Romario probably wanted to make sure that nothing happened to Dino himself. I thought I'd be home free when I reached the door, but a sudden wave of murderous intent rolled over me. I froze, much like prey when a predator sets its sights on it.

"Herbivore," the voice of the prefect sent shivers down my spine. I slowly twisted to look at the ravenette. While the bloodlust in his gaze wasn't as strong as normal when he looked at me, likely thanks to Dino, it was still intimidating. Add to that the fact that there was a feral smirk on Hibari's face and things became a whole lot worse.

"Hibari, I-" I was forced to cut off my explanation as the gap between me and the prefect was quickly closed. He swung a tonfa my way, and I was forced to leap away from the door. Cursing internally I ducked under another swing and spun away from the follow up. By now Hibari had come to expect such things of me, at least if his relentless pursuit was anything to go by. As I dodged, spun and flipped to avoid his blows I kept looking for a chance to make my get away. From the corner of my eye I caught sight of Dino and Romario watch Hibari and I.

On one hand I was glad that there was no interference from either of them; if there were I wasn't sure if I'd be able to properly focus. But I was also irritated that they were watching this play out. But I couldn't worry about them, so I forced myself to keep an eye on my opponent in hopes of finding a way to escape.

~On the School Roof~

~Third Person POV~

When Hibari had first attacked Yuzuki, Dino had nearly rushed to the girl's aide. He knew that the dark haired girl could easily hold her own but he also knew his own student's strength. However, before he could act Romario had beckoned him over. Opening his mouth to complain to his subordinate Dino was stopped when Romario pointed to the two battling.

"I don't think you have much to worry about Boss," Romario said. Indeed looking at Yuzuki and Hibari it was clear the both sides were nearly equal; not in brute strength as Yuzuki, no offense intended, definitely was the weaker of the two. However, the girl moved with a grace that was nearly effortless making it clear that she was used to situations like this. It was her quick moves and even quicker thinking that helped her stay equal to Hibari. As Dino continued to watch his student engage Yuzuki he was able to discern what he plan was. While it would seem, to the untrained eye, that Yuzuki's attention was solely on her opponent, that wasn't true. Most of her attention was on Hibari, but the little bit that wasn't was looking for an escape route.

Even without all of her attention on Hibari the girl was still flowing around her opponent. In fact if Dino hadn't known better he'd assume that this fight was choreographed. The two were dancing around each other; weaving through forms and attacks. There was something else Dino noticed as the battle went on. From what he'd heard and seen before of the two's fights Hibari had always seemed to be genuinely attempting to hurt the girl, now however the intent was lacking though the Mafia boss had no idea what the cause was. More over the initial bloodlust that Hibari had exhibited had subsided greatly. Now the boy seemed to be enjoying the battle; enjoying the unusual dance he and Yuzuki were currently involved in.

Suddenly Yuzuki made a break for it. If Dino and Romario were surprised by the sudden flight, Hibari was even more so. However, it was clear that the prefect had experience with her breakaways and so with only a small moment of hesitation he rushed after her. For a moment Dino and Romario stared at the door that the two had disappeared through.

"Now, you can be worried Boss," Romario said. Dino suddenly cursed and rushed to the door himself. He was about halfway down the stairs when his legs tangled up with his whip and sent him crashing to the floor.

~Within the School~

~Yuzuki's POV~

I fled into the belly of the school with Hibari close behind. I wasn't sure how long I could avoid him. As it stood I wasn't about to stop for anything… well, so long as I wasn't forced to stop. My eyes darted back and forth searching for a way out, or at least some way to avoid Hibari long enough for him to lose interest. Nothing jumped out at me, so I kept running. However, as I continued to run something struck me; Hibari's bloodlust wasn't as strong as normal, it was still there but it wasn't unbearable. Still, I wasn't about to wait around to find out why. An open door caught my attention and I dove through it. The relief I felt at avoiding my pursuer was instantly dispelled when I realized where I was. The Reception Room; the lair of the Disciplinary Committee and with a two story drop out the window it wasn't an ideal place to be. The door closing behind me alerted me to another folly; Hibari had been directly on my heels the entire time and I hadn't been able to out speed him.

I considered using the window for an escape, but while I figured I'd survive the drop there was no guarantee I'd come out unscathed. This meant that the door Hibari was guarding, with an all too satisfied expression, was the only viable way out for me. While I was tensed and prepared for anything, the prefect stood in my way completely at ease.

"Hibari… look I'd rather not fight right now," I said trying to talk my way out of the hole I'd dug myself into, "So, if you could just step to the side," which promptly failed. I spun in place, slipping into a low stance. I dropped into a roll to avoid the follow-up. Once I regained my footing I dodged around to the far side of the couch. I studied my opponent; he hadn't followed meaning that he was going to wait for my move. A feint probably wouldn't work; he was too close to the door for that; I wouldn't make it through the portal before he struck. The window was starting to look better and better, but I refused to turn my back to him in such a small room.

"Have you accepted your fate herbivore?" Hibari asked. With little choice I nearly admitted that I was soundly beat, but a thought occurred to me. What if I actually fought my way out? It was risky, and I was likely to wind up injured but something told me it might be safer to attempt it this time than it had ever been in the past.

"Afraid not," I said leaping over the couch and towards the prefect. There was surprise evident in Hibari's eyes, and I couldn't blame him; every other time we'd fought I'd only faked him out in order to escape. Unfortunately, his surprise was the downfall to my plan… quite literally. I'd not taken into account what I'd do if Hibari didn't retaliate after the initial shock, since I'd figured he'd be surprised. So, when I barreled into him my momentum had us both sprawled on the ground; I'd landed on top of Hibari and while that would have made things awkward enough it didn't stop there. When the shock of knocking my opponent to the floor dissipated another shock quickly followed it; the most cliché of all clichés, in my opinion, an accidental kiss. It must have happened as we fell since why would it not.

I pulled back, red coating my face, and unless my eyes were deceiving me, there was a pink tint to Hibari's cheeks. Of course, I couldn't rule out the fact that it might have been from any anger Hibari might have felt over the situation. From my position by the couch I tried to figure out what the prefect was thinking, but like most of the time I wasn't able to. So when he moved towards me I couldn't help but flinch a little.

~Reception Room~

~Third Person POV~

When Yuzuki flinched, Hibari nearly retracted his hand but paused. After all he wasn't one to back down from a fight or challenge, and while it definitely wasn't the former it could easily be seen as the latter. So, he allowed his hand to continue its path to the girl's head. His fingers carded through her hair; it was soft. She started and looked up at him through her bangs. It was clear she was curious as to his behavior. Though if she asked him, Hibari doubted he'd be able to give an answer. Yuzuki Hisoka had been an enigma to him from the first day he'd met her. Oh, he knew she transferred from Tokyo but most else about her was hidden away. So, the prefect had decide to observe the girl. For some time he had considered her just another useless herbivore among the crowds he so despised.

Then came the fight with the Kokuyo student. Seeing her there had stirred up in him something that he still had no name for. After he'd knocked the wannabe usurper down a peg for his transgression Hibari could recall falling to the ground, but not hitting the floor. At first the recollection had brought him anger; the girl dared pity him. But then even pity wouldn't have brought her to the hospital. While Yuzuki had denied ever being there, Kusakabe had been sure that it was her and he'd even kept vigilant watch over all the students but none matched the description of the girl visiting him. For a time after his release, Hibari had personally watched the girl looking for a reason why before thrusting the task onto his second-in-command. According to Kusakabe, Yuzuki had done it because she'd have appreciated the gesture herself; the prefect could believe that was a part of it but he was sure there was more to it.

So, for a time he let the matter pass. However, when the new year of school had started Hibari had felt an urge to put a permanent end to the issue. He'd consulted his Vice-Chairman on the matter, and while Kusakabe had been confused he'd suggested a gift. Unfortunately, the Chairman of the Disciplinary Committee had no experience in the gift-giving field. Of course that wasn't something that would stop Hibari Kyoya, and it was then a memory surfaced. He'd seen the girl looking at a specific pendant in the jewelry store. With that in mind he'd sent some of the herbivores under him to complete the task of getting said item, and thankfully for them they hadn't failed.

Then arose the problem of how to get it to the girl plaguing his thoughts. Irritated as he'd been earlier, due to his inability to devise a way to deliver his gift to Yuzuki, Hibari had taken some frustration out on the girl's twin after chasing the boy down. When said girl intervened the prefect hadn't hesitated to leap into the new fight. He'd learned quickly of her induction into the Infirmary after their fight, and had made his way to the ward. Hibari had watched the unconscious girl for a while, searching for something he wasn't sure of, before leaving the box with the pendant on the table beside the bed. He'd been pleased, though mildly surprised when she'd worn it the next day, but his mood had changed when he heard that she was looking for the one who'd given to her and only in order to return it.

He'd heard the whispers of some of the students; they wondered if it was from so sort of admirer. Hibari hadn't known what to think of that. He might have been impressed with Yuzuki's skills in battle, but that was all. At least that's what he tried to tell himself, but now he wasn't sure what to think. The first kiss he'd ever had was with the subject of his intrigue. The prefect wasn't sure whether to be angry or something else, though he concluded that anger probably wasn't what he felt. After all it was mostly fault on his part for being distracted with the swift attack Yuzuki had launched at him; an error on his part that he wouldn't repeat.

Despite the entire thing being an accident Hibari had felt some unusual emotion, which had been caused by the kiss accident or not. With no way to combat emotions the prefect had been hesitant to act, but he'd done so; the reminders of the action were the soft locked twined around his fingers and the curious look in Yuzuki's eyes. The gleam of the tiger pendant around her neck caught Hibari's eye.

"Do you still want to return that?" his voice snapped through Yuzuki's thoughts.

"Huh? What do you-" before she could finish the question Hibari cut her off.

"The necklace, herbivore, do you still want to return it?" Yuzuki stared at the prefect.

"How do you know about… wait, stupid question" the girl said. Though confusion was still evident in her blue-gray eyes. Yuzuki could almost feel the exasperation rolling off Hibari, though outwardly it didn't show.

"Just answer the question herbivore," it wasn't a suggestion.

"Honestly, I'm not sure," Yuzuki admitted, "I'll admit I was looking for the one who gave it to me to return it, at least initially. But now…" she trailed off for a moment before raising her gaze to meet Hibari's, "I still want to find the person responsible and I suppose, depending on who it is, I'll decide whether or not to keep it. But what does it matter to you?"

The prefect was silent for a minute before replying, "Herbivore, would it be rude to return something given as thanks?" confused Yuzuki nodded, "Then keep it because that's what it was meant for."

"How would you kn-" the understanding that flooded the dark haired girl cut her off. She searched for the lie in Hibari's eyes, but found none. Out of everything she expected this was not one of them; never had she dreamed that the prefect would have been the one to get her such a gift much less as thanks. Still there was one thing bothering her.

"What are you thanking me for?" Yuzuki couldn't help but ask. There were few things that Hibari could thank her for, and the chief among them was her hospital visits. The look she received would have been answer enough, but the verbal confirmation definitely cleared up any doubts she had.

"You spent time at the hospital while I was there, and Kusakabe reported a girl of your description leaving my room at one point," Hibari answered. Yuzuki mentally cursed; she'd known someone had been watching her but hadn't thought that it would be a member of the Disciplinary Committee, and it had to be the Vice-Chairman of all people.

"Herbivore," the sudden sound of the prefect's voice pulled Yuzuki from her thoughts, "I'm going to try something."

"What do yo-" again the dark haired girl wasn't able to finish the question. Only this time it was because she'd been silenced by a kiss. When Hibari pulled away all Yuzuki could so was stare at the boy. Hibari himself had a thoughtful expression on his face. He'd thought that he'd only been shocked by Yuzuki's attack, but now the emotion he felt before was back, though he still had no name for it. Even if his little experiment hadn't worked the surprise on Yuzuki's face would've been an acceptable result; getting both was an achievement the prefect was proud of.

"You talk too much herbivore," Hibari said as he stood. He left the room and started making his way back to the omnivore he'd been fighting earlier. All the while Yuzuki sat dumbfounded in the Reception Room because she was sure that there had been a teasing note in Hibari's voice, and after everything else that had happened she wasn't sure if she could deal with that too.

~Meanwhile; Near the Park~

~Arashi's POV~

After leaving my sister I'd slowly drifted back towards home. Honestly, I'd stopped a few times already just to take a look at my surroundings. Namimori was really a beautiful place. However, my mood was dampened a bit when some emotions belonging to my twin rushed over me; fear, determination, confusion, apprehension and more. With all the input I wasn't sure what to think about what was going on with my sister. As it was I wasn't able to worry about Yuzuki for long since it was at that moment that Kyoko and Haru ran up to me.

"Arashi-kun," Kyoko said breathlessly, "Have you seen Lambo, Fuuta and I-Pin by chance?"

I shook my head, "No, not recently. The last time I saw them is when Yuzuki and I passed the park. Is something wrong?"

"We left the park, and ended up separated," Haru said glumly.

"Well, Fuuta knows the area well enough," I said, "Maybe they've already gone back to Tsuna's," the girls didn't look too sure so I continued, "Tell you what, if you two head towards Tsuna's to see if they're there then I'll look around the area for them."

"Would you really?" Haru asked. I nodded in reply.

"It won't be a bother will it?" Kyoko asked.

"No, after all if they aren't home yet, I'd rather find them before nightfall," I said. With that the three of us split up. I checked most every street I could, but didn't have much luck. To make matters worse the sun was starting to set as I continued looking for the children. Then as I rounded a corner I heard voices. They were a bit muffled, so I figured they were from a distance away, but I was able to recognize one as Fuuta. Before I got too far, I heard a choked scream; that sounded too much like Lambo for my comfort. That in mind I picked up my pace. Another yell, this sounding like I-Pin pushed me to move faster.

As I rounded the bend I found I-Pin engaging an adult. The man wasn't holding back; a fact that made my blood boil. A silent snarl split my face as I sprinted towards the stranger. I reached him just as he smacked I-Pin away. Letting my fury be known a guttural cry tore from me as I dropped down into a slide, and using my momentum pushed up just enough with my hands to twist into a spin and take the guy's legs right from under him. He fell with a thud as I rushed over to the three kids.

"Arashi-nii," the relief was evident in Fuuta's voice.

"It's okay," I said reassuringly, "Are you hurt," Fuuta shook his head, "Alright, that's good, though Lambo and I-Pin look a little worse for wear," as I spoke I lifted the youngest of the kids into my arms, "We're gonna run now okay Fuuta. I might have knocked that guy down but I don't think he'll stay that way. So, let's move."

Fuuta immediately took off, and I was quick to follow. True to my prediction the man was up not long after and on our heels instantly. I dared not look back to see how close he was.

"Fuuta, I want you to scream for help," I said, "Someone might be close enough to hear it, and that might buy us some time."

Fuuta didn't disappoint, "Help us!" the young boy screamed; he glanced over his shoulder and his eyes widened, "Stay away!" from that reaction I had to assume that the guy was fairly close. I grit my teeth and pushed on; keeping myself in-between the kids and the man behind us. Then ahead I spotted Tsuna.

"Fuuta!" my friend shouted noticing the boy first. Fuuta put on a small burst of speed.

"Tsuna-nii!" the young boy called out. Suddenly Tsuna's countenance changed.

"Fuuta! Be careful!" the brunette shouted. The man was right behind me ready to strike. I was quick to curl myself into a smaller target, well as much as I could when I had to protect the kids as well. Even if Tsuna hadn't shouted anything I knew that he wouldn't make it to us in time. For a brief moment all I could do was hope that the blow wouldn't kill me. Then there was a tug as something flew past me. I glanced up, and saw that the man who'd been chasing me and the kids had been knocked back into the wall. Curious as to who'd pulled off the save I stood and looked behind me.

"Vongola Family's Guardian of Sun, Colonello's number one student, Sasagawa Ryohei cometh!" the white haired teen shouted. While Tsuna seemed a bit shocked and a little perturbed, I was grateful for the save.

Then Reborn spoke, "It's not over yet."

That one sentence put me on guard as I pulled Lambo and I-Pin closer to me. And not a moment too soon as another man jumped at our group from above. He was just as easily dispatched though to another friend. Then from a nearby rooftop there was an explosion, and it didn't take a rocket scientist to figure out who was responsible for that one.

"Geez, why does the stupid cow have a Ring?" Gokudera asked slouching slightly.

"It's all right now," Yamamoto said cheerfully. The bamboo sword in his grip gave me a clue as to how he'd dealt with the one man. And looking at the little group standing there, did they plan to stand that way on purpose, they looked pretty cool. Though it was just a relief to know that we were out of immediate danger.

"E-Everyone!" Tsuna's face broke out into a smile.

"Iemitsu made it, somehow," Reborn said. I wasn't sure who this Iemitsu was but I was glad for the assistance.

"Everyone!" Tsuna shouted again as he ran towards us.

"Jyuudaime!" Gokudera called back immediately.

"Hey, Sawada," Ryohei said.

"Sorry for being late," Yamamoto apologized.

"Actually, I think you all were right on time," I said grinning.

"Tsuna-nii! It was so scary!" Fuuta cried as he ran toward the brunette. The two embraced as Tsuna spoke.

"Thank goodness," Tsuna said, "Are you hurt?"

"No, thanks to Arashi-nii I'm fine, but…" the boy trailed off looking to I-Pin.

"I-Pin, are you all right?" Tsuna asked the girl concern clear in his voice, "Did you fight?"

The young girl scratched her cheek as she replied, "A little."

"Wait one second," so saying Yamamoto produced a bandaid out of his pocket before kneeling down, "You did well for being so little."

I-Pin thanked the tallest of our group. I smiled at the scene before it was promptly ruined by Lambo. The young boy was rolling on the ground as he complained about several things.

"Lambo-san's hungry! Tsuna, carry me! I can't move," the five year-old whined.

"Lying down in the middle of the road… that's just dirty," my friend said exasperation clear in his voice.

Even so that did nothing to stop Lambo's whining, "Carry me!" the cow suit wearing boy kept repeating the phrase.

"You were the one they were after," Tsuna scolded the young boy, "Don't you feel like you're in any danger?" Tsuna paused as the light glinted off something metal in Lambo's hair, "Is that where you kept the Ring? It's right next to garbage."

'So, Lambo has a Ring as well. Who in their right mind would give one of these Rings to a child; he's only five! Of course an adult killing a child just to get said Ring isn't much of a role model either,' I grumbled internally.

"I can't understand it at all," Gokudera groused, "Why did this idiot get a Ring?!" the silverette pointed at the boy rolling around at Tsuna's feet.

"Come on, it's all right," Yamamoto quickly tried to defuse the tension, "since we're all safe."

"I'm not sure that's why Gokudera-san's upset," I mumbled. Thankfully my words weren't heard.

"Yeah, you were a big help," Tsuna agreed with the baseball star, "I wasn't sure what was going to happen."

"You weren't the only one Tsuna," I said.

"They certainly were weaker than I imagined," Ryohei said meaning the men that'd been taken down, "It was a breeze."

"That's just naïve," Reborn's voice brought our attention to him, "There are low ranks within the Varia. The really frightening one is…" Reborn trailed off then jolted as something caught his attention, "He's coming."

Out from the trees another man jumped. Just by looking at him I knew he'd not be an easy opponent to take on. His eyes quickly surveyed the damage we'd done, or the damage three of us had done. After the scan he was quick to set our group in his sights.

"Did you do this?" he asked, though he didn't wait for a response, "Who holds the Thunder Ring? Is it that curly-headed brat?"

This guy was sharp. He'd immediately singled out Lambo, even though all of us were likely suspects. I shifted just so in case my aide were needed.

Tsuna waved his arms trying to avoid conflict, though it was clear it was going to fail, "I-It's not! T-This is a misunderstanding!" The stuttering probably didn't help, but I couldn't fault my friend for his fear. This guy was like the one we fought before; he was strong.

"If you get in the way I'll kill you," he said no sympathy in his voice. He prepare to pounce on us but a voice stopped him.

"Hold on, Levi." The man glance to his left as several more people joined him on the ledge above us. One was the man from before, and I also spotted Ben and Jenna; Tsuna had been right, not that I'd doubted him but seeing them standing up there any doubts were instantly crushed. The others were all new to me and the others.

"You can't hunt them by yourself," a flamboyantly dressed man said from his spot next to the kneeling Levi.

The only blond of the group spoke, "Share the prey, shishishi~."

"And what would you know about sharing basket-case blue-blood," Ben growled. The blond just grinned at the brunette. The largest of the group blew smoke out of the gas mask he was wearing; if he even was human to begin with. From this position I couldn't tell.

"The situation has changed," the infant beside Levi said; something about the kid set me on edge, "The other Guardians of the Rings are here," the infant looked down at Reborn who seemed to be just as much on edge as I was.

"Indeed," Jenna said, "Well, at least most of them are here. I'm sure a few are missing."

"S-So many?" Tsuna questioned as he looked at the group that would give us no quarter.

"VOIIIIIII!" the man we'd fought before stepped forward, "How dare you trick me, you trash."

"H-He's here!" Tsuna shouted in fear. His appearance had Yamamoto and Gokudera instantly on guard and ready for action.

"Which one of you has the Rain Ring?" he yelled down at us. I couldn't help but glance over at Yamamoto, since if memory served he was the Rain Guardian of our group.

There was a fierce glare on Yamamoto's face as he replied voice low, "I do."

This seemed to amuse the man, "So it's you? Three seconds," he said leaving me confused for a moment, "I'll cut you to pieces in three seconds," he lifted his sword threateningly. To Yamamoto's credit he didn't even flinch. Of course Tsuna began having a mini freak out, but before the long haired guy could follow through on the not so subtle threat another stranger appeared.

"Out of the way," the newcomer pushed the swordsman out of the way as he strode forward. Something about him was different; the others were frightening sure, but you could easily see why. This newcomer looked intimidating, sure, but there was something even more terrifying about him that I couldn't discern.

"He's here," Reborn's voice was solemn, "I never thought I'd see him again. Xanxus."

We all stared at the stranger. His crimson gaze narrowed and I was instantly paralyzed. This man, it was clear, he was much stronger than the others of this Varia. That much was clear by the way he was able to fill us with such terror simply by looking our way. I had to wonder if we were even ready for this.

"Sawada Tsunayoshi," there was no emotion in Xanxus's voice as he addressed the brunette of our group. Then his hand lit up with a blinding glow. The most colorful of their group stepped back.

"Boss! Are you going to use that so soon? Here?!" he asked. Whatever their Boss had planned must have been bad as the guy sounded scared.

"Are you going to get us, too?!" the man we'd fought before growled. He too sounded frightened. If this guy was scared, did that mean me and the others should be terrified.

"Ten bucks says he doesn't get to use it," Ben's voice followed, "Any takers?"

"Ushishishi~ you're one peasant," the blond replied with a grin. Even though they were joking, and actually betting, it was clear the two weren't as unconcerned as they tried to make out.

Reborn's voice pulled me out of my thoughts, "This is dangerous. Run!"

Unfortunately, the warning wasn't fast enough as Xanxus growled, "Die."

I braced myself for what was to come when a pickax flew out of nowhere and landed in front of our foes. All of us looked at it in surprise before turning towards the direction it came from when someone spoke.

"Hold on, Xanxus," the voice said, "That's enough. I'll take charge from here."

"D-Dad?" Tsuna questioned. I hadn't met Tsuna's father until now, but since I had more questions than answers had cropped up. Why was he here? How'd he know Xanxus? Was he a part of the Mafia? Did he have a role in what was happening now? I barely registered Gokudera's own shock, but forced myself to focus on what was happening around me now.

"Iemitsu," Xanxus growled. My mind nearly spiraled back into the unanswered questions area at this information. This was the man who'd sent Yamamoto, Ryohei and Gokudera to us.

"Why are you here?!" the long haired Varia member asked incredulously. Tsuna's father didn't seem the least bit perturbed.

"Xanxus, are your subordinates going to point their swords at the external advisor?" the blond man asked.

"D-Dad, what are you talking about?" Tsuna questioned.

"Their bloodlust is astounding," Ryohei observed. And indeed he was right Tsuna's father seemed to dislike the Varia as much as they disliked him.

"Don't stick your nose in so late, Iemitsu! All you know how to do is run around, you coward!" the swordsman yelled.

"What was that?!" the boy who'd fought alongside us shouted back. He raised his weapon, but Tsuna's father stopped him.

"Hold on, Basil," he turned his gaze back to the Varia, "I wasn't running. I was waiting on a response from the Ninth. I've been having issues with your conduct and the Ninth's approval of it. I sent a letter to the Ninth with my doubts and questions, and this is his answer," he held up a rolled up piece of paper bound with a string, "This is a direct order from the Ninth."

"I don't know what you're talking about at all," Tsuna cried out eyes on his father, "Why do you know all this?"

"Vongola's external advisor," Reborn said, "That is his post within the Vongola Family," Tsuna let out a noise of disbelief as Reborn continued, "One who is Vongola, but also is not. Normally he is an outsider, but during emergencies he has the right to succeed the boss. In actuality, he's the number two."

"D-Dad's number two?!" the shock was evident in Tsuna's question. Honestly, I was in the same boat though I knew very little of what anyone was talking about.

As though Tsuna had never spoken the infant hitman spoke on, "And the external advisor has a part equal to the boss in deciding the successor. He has the right to give the Half Vongola Rings to whomever he chooses."

"Half of the Rings?" Tsuna questioned.

Reborn looked up at his student, "Didn't I tell you? The nine different Vongola Rings are just shards by themselves. They become proof of the successor when each pair of pieces is combined to become a Vongola Ring."

"So that's why it's so oddly shaped," Tsuna commented holding his ring up and turning it.

"In other words, you must have both halves to be the successor," Reborn said, "Though it's rare for the boss and external advisor to choose different candidates."

After that explanation Basil was in front of Tsuna. He held out the paper that Tsuna's father had shown us.

"This is the direct order from the Ninth," Basil said.

"Direct order?" Tsuna asked as he took the paper from Basil, he jolted as a flame sprung to life on the top of the paper, "A Dying Will Flame?"

"That's the Ninth's Dying Flame Seal," the child of the Varia said, "There's no mistake. That's a true, direct order."

"I can't read Italian! What does it say?!" my brunette friend sounded utterly lost. From his place Tsuna's father laughed, but took pity on his son.

"To translate and summarize, this is what it says: Until now…" the man's face became serious, "I thought that Iemitsu's son, Sawada Tsunayoshi, was a worthy successor, and acted as such. However, perhaps because I am close to death, by intuition I changed course and chose a new successor. My son, Xanxus. He is truly worthy to become the Tenth."

"What?! He's the Ninth's son?!" Tsuna's looked up at the intimidating leader of the Varia in shock. I was surprised to, but more than that I was curious. If he really was the Ninth's son why had Tsuna's father not chosen to make him the successor instead of Tsuna? Was there more to this than I or anyone else realized? I shook away those thoughts as Tsuna's father continued.

"However, there will be those who are unhappy with this change. That is why Iemitsu fought against handing the Rings to Xanxus," Tsuna seemed affronted by this, but I figured there must be some reason why he'd do this, "However, I do not wish for my Family to fight amongst itself for no reason. Thus we will begin the decisive battle to decide who will be the official successor, through a method we can all agree on. This is what it means," he looked to his son, "Vongola successor candidate, Sawada Tsunayoshi," then he switched his gaze to Xanxus, "Also a successor candidate, Xanxus! The Vongola Rings that you both require to become the true successor… To decide who has the right to these, we will begin the decisive battle between Tsuna's Family and the Varia!"

Tsuna could only look on at his father in complete shock. And if I were being truthful I was in the same boat.

'Yuzuki just what have we gotten ourselves into?' I sent a silent question to my sister wherever she was; this were going to get interesting and utterly dangerous for the next while.

~EXTRA~

~Third Person POV~

As soon as the pickax landed in front of Xanxus, Belphegor reluctantly pulled ten dollars from his wallet. Ben smiled cheekily at the prince as he pocketed the cash.

"You better sleep with one eye open peasant," Bel said lowly, "Otherwise you're liable to be gutted."

Ben sent the blond an unimpressed look, "How often do you say that when you lose a bet to me? And have you ever once followed through?" Bel glowered allowing Ben to continue, "That's what I thought."

"Ushishishi, just wait peasant," the prince hissed, "One day you won't be so cocky."

"Perhaps, but it is not today," the brunette male said with a grin.

Me: Whew… finished. I think this is at least a little over five thousand words; it could be more though. Anyways, I apologize for the wait… again but I hope this chapter can make up for it. Though… was Hibari OOC… I feel like he was. And it seems like the Third Person POV sections were forced. Anyways I'd love to know what you all thought, so please feel free to leave a review; I will gladly accept constructive criticism, but no flames. Hey Yuzuki, could you…

Yuzuki: *staring off into the void*

Me: Oh, I think I broke her again… Now who will say the disclaimer? Aras- oh, he's busy too.

Arashi: *deep in thought*

Ben: Well, if those two are out of commission want me to help out again?

Me: Sure why not… though did you actually quote a BT-

Ben: Maybe, maybe not. You'll have to be the judge of that. Anyways to all the reader out there, that have stuck to this story and to any newcomers, CloudSkylark18 owns nothing of KHR. If she was in fact Akira Amano I doubt she'd be here writing this right now.

Me: Probably right.

Ben: *clears throat* However, she own all the OCs that have shown up along with the plot surrounding said OCs. So… any questions?

Me: Other than mine that you cut off… I don't think so. So, that being said have a wonderful day, and I'll see you again for the next chapter.

Ben: Yeah, what she said. Now get out of here until the next update notification!

Me: Okay so, I'm going to be reworking this chapter a little bit. Mostly it'll be changing up the Third Person POV interaction between Hibari and Yuzuki. It didn't flow well to me so I decided to change it. There's also another reason for the change to come, but I'll expound on that once this chapter has been reworked. So, for now please bear with me.

Me: Okay, so the chapter has been reworked, and now I think it definitely flows a lot better. And more than the flow I think Hibari doesn't seem as OOC as he did before. Anyways, the other reason I redid this chapter has to do with a little contest I'm thinking of having. I'll have the rules listed here and on my Profile. But first the premise; I want to see how you guys perceive Hibari during his interactions with Yuzuki. So, here's what I was thinking; what if those of you interested in the contest wrote from Hibari's perspective during those interactions? If that grabbed your attentions then I'll move onto the rules.

1) All submissions must be written from Hibari's Point of View, and must be one of his interaction with Yuzuki

2) You can do just one of the interactions of all of them; I will accept multi-chapter submissions and drabbles if that is what you feel comfortable with writing, though if possible I'd prefer One-Shots

3) You have to keep the writing PG-13 (meaning no strong language and no sexual themes), and you must take the process seriously (Hibari can be slightly OOC but nothing major)

4) There will be no claims of own this story or the OCs within

5) You must send me the link to your story, and please use the PM feature to do so

6) Any and all disregard to the rules above will result in disqualification of the submission

That being said the winner of the contest can ask for a One-Shot, or something along the lines, so long as it stays PG-13. So, I hope that you will all give it a try and may the best author win.