Bells and Whistles Chapter 23: Sounds of Hearts, a hunter x hunter fanfic

Featured Songs:
Mika - Live your life ( james on ao3)
Astrid S - Don't be such a boy
Colors - Halsey

Baw Chapter 23

TUI Chap 10 - Sounds of Hearts

The advertisements for the spring dance looked stunning. It was a nice change of environment for the students to see the shades of purple and blues with sharp blues and whites hanging around the hallways. The theme of the dance that was coloring the school walls was the Spring Formal Masquerade and the students were excited.

"Oh, what if I meet a mysterious stranger and we leave at midnight?"

"Just ask for each other's names?"

"I'm going in a half mask like the phantom of the opera."

"I'm wearing the Scream mask."

"Oh my gosh billy don't do that!"

"My gown will look just like the starry sky!"

Gon smiled as he jogged to his locker and opened it to get his folder for his next class. The buzz around the spring dance that occurs before the Spring Showcase was fun to say the least. To feel the energy of all his friends made everyday an experience and electricity lit the air with new excitement from the upcoming event. Gon thrived in these good vibes.

A couple students with music sheets in their hands broke out of the usual flow of hallway movements to intercept Gon while he was walking back to class. He smiled at them good naturedly, curious.

"Hey Gon! Whats up? Are you busy?" The tall boy in front asked.

"Um, just on my way to class? What's up?" Gon asked, tilting his head.

"We wanted some advice on the Spring Showcase this semester." All three of the students took that chance to look sheepish and embarrassed. Gon grinned at them, excited.

"You guys are going for it! That's amazing!" Gon laughed, slapping one of their shoulders in congratulations. Gon was almost worried that no other underclassman would try their hand at the performing in the showcase even though he already broke the stigma of the school by being the first underclassmen to perform in the showcases reserved for seniors. But these students in front of him were proof that Gon did what he set out to do and made the music-sharing showcases more attainable and paved the way to make it less exclusive. Anyone with a half baked idea or song number they're proud of can show what they are working on to the school. "I'll be happy to give you all advice." Gon said warmly.

"Mh, you're going to be in this one, right?" One asked as they all started moving to walk with Gon.

"Ah, no, not this time, I don't have any new numbers, I was too busy working on getting recruited by music companies." Gon admitted with a chuckle. The students looked stunned and impressed. ' Maybe Killua had a point when he was saying how unusual it was to get recruited unless you were graduated or exceptional.' Gon thought sheepishly while he stuck out his tongue in a smile. "But maybe next time." Gon said, to get the conversation going again. But no matter what, he was happy he finally got one to respond.

"Ah, shame, we were hoping to do the showcase with you… but anyways, we'd love your advice." They all agreed they could use it from an experienced peer anyway. The whole way to the pitch perfect class, Gon shared nerve calming tricks, best places to practice dancing for the stage, not practicing too hard before performing.

"Alright guys, this is my stop. But hey, you guys can do it! I'll definitely go to the Showcase to support you guys. It's supposed to be a celebration of music, ok? As long as you guys like what you're doing, it doesn't matter what place you guys get. You're already doing great." Gon grinned and gave them fist bumps.

"Thanks Gon!" They grinned happily and onto their next class. Gon smiled.

"Well, everything's building up to a great close out of the school year- fun parties, and events lined up, with the showcase being inclusive- as it should be." Gon smiled, getting to his seat. Kitty headphones lowered, lofi bass music filtering lowly in the air.

"Now, you just gotta pass final exams." Killua grinned up at Gon, his head propped lazily up on his palm. Gon smiled. Killua always looks so effortlessly beautiful.

"No problem, I have you to study with after all." Gon said plopping down in the seat next to Killua and Killua snorted.

"I guess, I have the better grades between the two of us anyway." Killua smiled, leaninging back with his hands behind his head. Gon laughed, trying to quiet down for the class to start. Gon felt so happy and lucky. Everything was working out in his life so far. His fellow underclassmen are getting ready to participate in the showcase, he just ended the weekend of what people in the school are calling one of the most successful play opening weekends, and he got recruited by a company. Killua and himself are just finishing last negotiations before he takes the contract. Closer to the end of the school year, all his friends are going to throw him a party congratulating him and celebrating his success in finding a company after weeks and months of hard work and no answers. Gon was starting to have trouble thinking of anything that could dampen his mood. He's really set up the rest of his school years to be the best ever.

-0-0-0-0-0-

Gon put the felt animal mask to his face. With the theme of Masquerade, Gon and Killua wanted to try and keep with the theme of alternate fashions, and not get too swept up in the classic glam look. It sounded weird, but it was actually the best way to stand out, a simple chic that would stand out against the elegance of the night among the group of people always trying to look good with the current fashion trends. Gon didn't even know what Killua was going to wear until he got here so they could drive there together. So now, Gon was wearing a white button up with dark blue fingerless gloves, a matching vest with long tails on the back, black slacks with a right knee guard and boots. Not to mention the decorated bear mask on his face, colored blue and white to match Killua's. It was the only thing he knew about Killua's outfit.

"Gon, Killua's here!" Mito called from the other room of the apartment.

"Coming!" Gon smiled and ran over. His smile widened as he saw his best friend in the entrance way. He was wearing a splayed cat mask, covered in stars, a dress shirt with a large ascott to act in place of the tie and frilled edges, long enough to reach his knees. He wore tights, midnight blue, under the dress-like shirt and light brown shin length boots, with an ankle bracelet over the side. It was tied together with accessories matching Gon's. Killua smiled happily once he saw Gon.

"Oh, you too are so cute!" Mito cooed as she ran forward to take Gon's hand and bring him closer to his date.

"She's gonna take pictures." Gon muttered to Killua, amused.

"I have to take pictures." Mito said, shifting through her work papers on the desk in the living room. Killua covered his mouth to stifle his laugh.

"It wasn't any better at my house." Killua muttered. "When Illumi and Amane came out in their matching outfits." Killua said. "My mom couldn't stop crying." Killua sighed playfully while Gon laughed and Mito didn't tell them that was the moment she decided to capture on the camera. She was so excited for Gon; she was so proud of everything he's built for himself, she had to take a memorial.

-0-0-0-0-0-

The songs in the large rec space filtered through the air like watercolor on paper.

Killua grinned at the music as they walked in, fixing the mask over his eyes. The songs sounded great, whoever was in charge of the playlists had some pretty good taste. Killua turned to Gon to sing along with the music , and Gon beamed back, taking his hand to start dancing. They might as well make their way to the dance floor. Killua couldn't help but think that Gon fit the lyrics pretty well.

~Anywhere you are is just like home to you

From the beaches in Manila

Down to Katmandu

Yeah you've got that secret

That everybody else wants to know

But you won't ever let it go oh

Everybody wanna hold your hand

Everybody wanna shine that bright

Everybody wanna say they can

Everybody wanna live your life

Everybody wanna talk like you

Only wanna do the things you do

'Cause they always gonna turn out right

Everybody wanna live your life

"Fancy a virgin pina colada?" The man behind the counter of the makeshift party bar asked, shaking the silver canister. Kurapka turned to look and take in the sight. The bartender wore a male fitted corset like that of old princes, but more modern accessories and pants that accentuated his figure and height. The mask covered his eyes in twirling patterns, the left side of the mask extended further to cover his left cheek, and a small beak fitted over the top of his nose.

"Hm, I might be more inclined if you named it something a little more appealing than that." Kurapika said, turning to his new company. He was still waiting for Melody, so he might as well indulge in some conversation.

The two friends decided to dress more ethereal for this masquerade. Just really indulge themselves with the finer clothings and silks, not bothering with any hindering things like gender roles. Kurpaika himself was dressed in a silk shirt adorned with curls along the buttons, and the sleeves came all the way up to his fingers. His fine knitted jeans were cut off at the knees with long slender boots. There were golden hearts adorned on either side of his mask.

The man seemed to appreciate the look.

"I will take that into account. But I didn't name them." The man said with a chuckle, pushing an orange and red faded drink. "Rate my drink anyway?"

Kurapika smiled, feeling a tingle down his spine from knowing this guy was definitely flirting with him. As someone who was usually so focused on his schoolwork, he almost never gave frivolous things such as personal relationships attention. To think someone was so easily interested in his words and what he had to say- and he had the time to indulge, for once- It made Kurapika excited. He put the drink to his mouth to take a sip, the flavors pleasant on his tongue, keeping sights with the man.

"It tastes ok, at best." Kurapika said, unwilling to give him the satisfaction yet. He wanted to keep his attention, not spoil him and give what he wanted. The man smiled, and Kurapika was glad for the mask. He felt his face warm up at the warm smile the bartender was giving. It was like he was giving him care through the smile alone.

"Just 'ok'? Man, I gotta try harder." He smiled. Kurapika hummed a laugh.

"What about me? Have you heard any of my music from Senritsu?" Kurapika asked. He saw the recognition flash on the man's eyes.

"Ah, the vocals?" He asked.

"I'm more talking about the instrumentals." Kurapika corrected. "But I am the vocals too."

"I enjoy it. The sounds you create… you can really tell that they love the music they make. That's what I enjoy most about this school, I've noticed it since I came here. Every student here has bounds of passion for what they do." Kurapika nodded with some awe. An inspiration from people who show such passion, a compassion of music if you will.

Melody gazed upon the two people sitting at the table. "I wonder if they know who the other is." Melody hummed, as she went towards Kurapika's side. She wore a long gown with a overpeice that draped over her main gown. She had short gloves on and a flowery mask that was pastel colored, like her soft pink dress. Kurapika could recognize her because of it, it's what they agreed upon.

"I hope you two are making nice this time." She asked.

"Ah, I did resolve to be nicer to Leorio once I saw him again." Kurapika said before he could say anything. Leorio looked like he was surprised, mouth open.

"You knew it was me?" The masked man now identified as Leorio asked.

"Not immediately. I didn't realize it was you until you started talking about your passion for music. Only one guy can be so… simple about their inspiration and what made them happy." he said.

"Should I be insulted about that?" Leorio asked, looking over at Melody.

"It's better not to and just ask him to dance." Melody said.

"What- dance?" Kurapika asked, now taken for surprise at the sudden proposition. Leorio also looked kinda flustered.

"I- I'm the bartender!" Leorio said.

"It'll be fine for one dance. You guys are finally getting along, why don't you enjoy each other's company for a time." Melody hummed. Leorio gave a small sigh while Kurapika shook his head.

"Ok, let's go." Leorio said, interrupting anything Kurapika was about to say.

"Huh? You too?" Kurapika asked as Leorio rounded the counter. He took Kurapika's hand, making sure Kurapika wasn't opposed first.

"I could loosen my limbs." He grinned. "And this might be the only time you actually dance tonight. I'm happy if you wouldn't mind it being with me." Leorio gave him a charming smile and Kurapika felt flustered. He barely knew what to say before they were heading out to the dance floor.

"Have fun!" Melody hummed with a wave.

-0-0-0-0-0-0-

Amane spotted him before he spotted them. It was nearly impossible not to, the bright colorful outfit he wore was something out of a carnival ad. His frills and vest sported bright colors of pink and white, his hair styled up. What was worse, was Hisoka was unapologetic in his new looks. Amane knew this because he wasn't even wearing a mask, although this was a masquerade themed party.

"Ok, Amane-" Illumi started, turning to her. His hair swept into a high ponytail matched his early century prince look. His mask went over his face and had swirly designs like vines over it.

"I know. This is one of the last dances you'll have with your boyfriend. Clear out." She said, tired but at least used to the usual routine. She was matching Illumi's look per the Zoldyck's requests. Her early century dress with greensleeve inspiration and the mask matched Illumi's. Illumi sighed through his nose and pulled Amane into a side hug as Hisoka made his way through the crowd to them. Amane was surprised, not expecting to be hugged.

"Thank you for being so understanding. Have fun tonight, ok?" Illumi asked. Amane's mouth floundered a moment as she looked up at him and nodded, dumbfounded.

"Right.." She hummed and Illumi turned to Hisoka.

"Alright, I'm ready to have fun." Illumi said, switching into his persona for the night, ready to let loose on this party night.

"Bye Illumi." Amane said, moving to go to the food table.

-0-0-0-0-0-

The music faded as the song on the speakers ended, the audience on the dancefloor applauding their enjoyment so far. Gon huffed a laugh as he tried to catch his breath, catching Killua's hand in his. Killua's skin flushed beautifully under the lights, visible even as the mask covered half his face. His head tilted back in laughter, sparkle in his eyes that was only for Gon when he smiled and looked at him. Gon could hold on to this moment forever. Gon pulled Killua closer and Killua's laughter hitched, causing Gon to smile more slyly.

"You're so beautiful…" Gon said, just soft enough for Killua to hear. For Killua to hear, only. He ducked his head, pulling out of Gon's hold.

"Let's go get something to eat. We've been dancing so long." Killua said, speaking up to be heard over the speakers introducing the featured band for the night. Gon nodded, taking his hand in his again to bring them to the table.

Gon nodded his head to the new opening number as Killua picked up some finger food. The cheers from the crowd were wild, they must be excited. They heard her before they saw her.

"Say you need more space… What are you, an astronaut? You've got the whole universe, so what you coming 'round here for?" Killua's head whipped around so fast, Gon was worried he hurt himself.

"No way…" Killua breathed out softly, his eyes wide. Gon turned to him with a raised eyebrow and then followed Killua's line of sight to see what his eyes were glued to. Gon was surprised too. Dark skin and long black hair dancing in a dress suit- Gon was a fan, how can he not recognize her?

"Said you need more air, Are you underwater now? We're not even in that deep, acting like you're gonna drown…!" Canary sang, holding the microphone like a lover, drawing people in with her large, light colored eyes.

"It's Canary!" Gon cried, looking over to Killua who was looking just as excited. They ran over, finger food on a plate, joining the hopping crowd. Wow, if they were listening, maybe they could have gotten closer to the stage to see Canary! Gon had always wanted to meet her and she looks great. Killua must be happy to see an old friend and an alumni of the school return.

"We were dancing, late into the day, half asleep and half awake, When the music starts to fade… We were laying, laying in my bed, for one second, you forget! Oh, here we go again…!" Canary hummed, swaying her head back and forth to the dreamy music, serving to the crowd. She looked comfortable on stage, Gon can only hope he can learn to be as professional as her when he graduates into a music company.

" You say you want a break, so we break up...It's a mistake, so we make up! And then we make out, you freak out… Here we go again…! You say we go too fast when you're sober, Then have a glass, you're coming over! And then we make out, you freak out… " Canary sang, winking at some of the girls in front. She paused for effect and waited for the crowd to sing with her.

" Don't be such a boy! "

The musicians on stage with her played the EDM parts of the music as Canary sang along.

Boy, boy, boy, boy, boy