Wishing Kokoros
Mirai Kurosaki
Chapter 10
A/N: Don't you just love me? I posted two chapters for you this time instead of one! ^_^;;;
~*~*~*~
The two cloaked figures brushed by forcefully, pushing themselves to the front of the crowd. Both peered sharply through the thick cloaks, watching any sudden movement made by their enemy.
"I think now is the time to attack."
Byakko drew a hand out to stop Tsuzuki from continuing any further. "No. Let's see what happens next. Besides, I don't want to see you get hurt."
A sigh escaped Tsuzuki. "All right."
That was right when they heard the shattering scream that tore through their minds. Everyone besides Hisoka and Yume cried out and clutched their heads in agonizing pain. Images of the battle that had just currently ended flashed through their mind and the tormenting pain of what the boys had felt ripped through everyone's body.
Tsuzuki grunted and struggled to speak. "Wh...What's happening?"
"I...It must be a psychic attack." Byakko held his head tightly and cried out much like everyone was.
~*~*~*~
Yeiko and the guards were unable to haul away Hitaru's body due to the fact that they were kneeling and clutching their heads in torture by the attack sent at them.
Only Hisoka and Yume were able to sustain the control on their minds; however, they gave no thought to stop the boy's pain.
Still Tenkei screamed and cradled the precious bundle that lied dead upon him. Ignoring the pain that continued to fly through him, he poured his emotions straightly and the strongest at Miyuki who was groaning in pain as well.
"That...Little bitch..." Miyuki growled, trying to control his mind to no success.
Everyone's cries began to fade tediously when Tenkei came to a halt in his attack. Feeling as if he was making no progress, he continued to stare at Hitaru's lifeless face. He sniffled and then placed a soft kiss upon Hitaru's forehead. Noticing the boy's change in actions, Yeiko and the guards around him began reaching in rage at the body and Tenkei.
Hisoka noticed this and wrapped his arms protectively around the boy. Yume hurled in front of Hisoka and circled him, roaring and clawing at any hands that tried to touch him.
Yeiko reached out bravely but drew his hand back with a yelp. He held his now injured hand to his chest and stared harshly at Miyuki. "What now?"
Hisoka interrupted and said, "Leave him be. You have damaged him enough. He will stay with me. Only I can calm him down and you all know it. I'm sure Miyuki will not mind much. If anyone dares to question my superior stance, they can deal with Yume."
Yume let out another deadly roar sending a threatening warning to the guards.
Forgetting the task he was suppose to do after a battle, Miyuki panted but managed to say, "Fine. I have to deal with the captives."
Despite his hatred for Miyuki, Hisoka nodded and stood up, his mind only on the poor boy. He nudged the boy gently. "Come on, Tenkei. Let's get away from here."
Not daring to take his eyes away from the body, Tenkei gave a hesitant nod. Yume strolled to Tenkei and allowed the boy to set himself on his back, who was still clutching onto Hitaru's shell.
Hisoka set himself behind Tenkei, giving a dirty look at Yeiko. He turned his attention away from the traitor and whispered to Yume, "Let's go."
Yume stretched out his jagged wings and took off to Hisoka's room. The two cloaked figures watched the beast soar high into the building and zoom out. Both looked at each other and nodded. They melted from the crowd and, being cautious not to catch any unwanted attention, dashed out through an unguarded door, which Yume had flown through.
"Byakko, I want you to stay here, and keep an eye out for Miyuki. I'm going to find Hisoka."
Byakko nodded and went the opposite direction, back to the crowds as soon as Tsuzuki had left. Just as he was about to enter the room though, a form appeared before him and pounced on him, causing his mind to go black.
~*~*~*~
Yume landed before Hisoka's door and allowed all of them to bound off. Hisoka opened the large doors and waited for everyone to enter to room before he did.
Tenkei's tears had dried and left stained marks upon his rosy cheeks. His wounds did not bleed but left a nasty sensation in the skin. In either case, Tenkei placed Hitaru's body upon Hisoka's bed.
"Shouldn't we patch him up, Yume?"
Leave him be for now. He needs to do this.
"Do what?"
Yume looked up. Spirit ritual that Miyuki would usually perform himself. Tenkei was trained how to perform it, but rarely does it.
Not completely understanding, Hisoka stared up at the bloody Tenkei. Tenkei took each of Hitaru's deathly cold hands and entwined them, then placed it upon the still chest. He again removed a few strands of hair and placed one last kiss upon Hitaru.
"I will not allow Miyuki to take your soul, Hitaru-san. He will realize he had made a careless mistake for not taking it before we left and I won't have much time. But I will take it for you."
With a sigh, Tenkei pulled back his sleeves, revealing a wrist with a strange symbol on it. Due to how light it was, Hisoka couldn't tell what it was.
"What is that on his wrist?"
He was born with it. Classified as a birthmark.
Soft chants began filling the room from Tenkei's lips. A gentle breeze surrounded Hitaru and Tenkei's body, blowing the locks of hair. Tenkei closed his eyes and placed his hands over Hitaru's chest.
A tiny glow came from the chest and then throughout the entire body. The glowing body floated upwards and stood up, blinking slightly. A spirit, thought Hisoka, watching Hitaru's spirit stare into Tenkei's shut eyes.
The spirit bent forward and placed his lips upon Tenkei's in a ghostly kiss. A gasp came from Tenkei and the spirit allied himself with Tenkei's body. Both Yume and Hisoka continued to watch, not wanting to disturb Tenkei.
Once the spirit linked with Tenkei, Hitaru's body faded away and the breeze faded into extinction.
"Tenkei..."
The boy stared up at Hisoka and gave a slight smile. "His soul will always be with me now. But still..." He stared uneasily at his feat.
Yume came over and nuzzled Tenkei with his head daintily. Let's fix up your wounds.
Tenkei stroked Yume's fur and nodded. "Okay."
The room stood silent as both Yume and Hisoka took out medical tools and patched up Tenkei very vigilantly, minding his other wounds. Hisoka wrapped up Tenkei's legs while Yume was able to do the arms and chest after applying gauze.
Once the last bandage was wrapped around the boy's head by Hisoka, the materials were placed to the side and all sat upon the bed. Yume was lazily lying upon the pillows, while Hisoka held a sniffling Tenkei in his arms.
All was silent until Tenkei spoke up. "I am so confused, Hisoka...Hitaru called me Kyomeito," he explained, cuddling closer into Hisoka's chest for warmth.
"Join the club, kid."
With a cringe of surprise, all turned swiftly around, facing the voice. Yume was the first to leap off, growling softly in a warning to whoever had currently entered without permission.
A shadow crawled around and a form stepped into the light. Hisoka's eyes widened and he gasped with bewilderment.
"Tsuzuki!"
Tsuzuki grinned widely and asked, "Missed me, partner?"
With a cry of joy, Hisoka hurdled off the bed and stumbled into Tsuzuki's welcoming arms. His tears finally sprang freely at the comforting warmth and emotion soothing him. Tsuzuki too had a few tears and had his arms tightly and possessively holding to the cherished being within his grasp.
"Hisoka! I'm so relieved that you're not hurt!"
Hisoka stared up, not caring for the tears that ran down, and gave a tiny smile. "I missed you so much. I was so scared that Miyuki would find you," he said, leaking a river of tears that trickled down harder.
"Shhh. I'm here now. I won't leave you." Tsuzuki leaned down and kissed off the tears, drinking them as if they were priceless nectar. He then slightly turned his head and captured those teasing lips.
Yume had ceased to threaten Tsuzuki after realizing who he was. Tenkei was beside him giving a wide smile of approval as the Tsuzuki threw Hisoka into a passionate yet gentle kiss, tangling his slim fingers through the silky strands of wheat hair.
Both pulled back for breath after a moment, enjoying the heat from the other. They tightly held on to each other refusing to part.
Despite that Tenkei did not want to interrupt, he shrieked out loud and collapsed to the floor, cradling his head.
Tenkei-kun! What is it?
Hisoka and Tsuzuki dashed to the boy, comforting him. Tenkei relaxed under their touched but resumed to hold his injured head.
He said, "Yume-san, it's a Ceremony...but...I saw Hisoka....and Miyuki...."
It can't be! I thought he refused to do that! He wouldn't dare to do that to Hisoka!
"Perhaps they discovered something..."
Tsuzuki raised a confused eyebrow and asked, "What about Hisoka?"
Yume looked up at Tsuzuki and opened his mind to the older man. Hisoka is endangered. He must leave immediately...But how?
With great concern, Tsuzuki wrapped his arms protectively around Hisoka, who was just as shocked. Tenkei stood up once again and tugged on Hisoka's outfit. He had a frightened and amazed look within his Tsuzuki-like eyes.
Yume froze and lifted his head high up. He sniffed the area for a moment before letting a thunderous bellow. They know of Asato's presence! They-Ahhh!
A group of large cobras had leapt from nowhere and pinned down Yume, despite the struggles and blows he made. A few sent sharp bites to his body, which stopped his struggles immediately.
"Yume!" Hisoka spun around and saw Miyuki, Yeiko, and an entire group of soldiers creating a semi-circle behind them.
Miyuki stepped forward, a lustful look among his eyes, while Tsuzuki sheltered Hisoka from him. "You were correct, Yeiko. That bitch took Hitaru's soul and Tsuzuki-san had entered the palace. And I assume there was a romantic moment between him and my prince. It seems your friend didn't have much luck, though."
Two guards appeared and held a bruised and weak Byakko by the arms roughly. The Shikigami stared up at Tsuzuki and whispered an apology. Tsuzuki gave a sympathetic smile, understanding.
Miyuki gave Tsuzuki a deadly and dirty look. "Seize them all."
Five guards leapt up and brutally snatched Tsuzuki away from Hisoka, pinning him in an uncomfortable position. Yeiko stepped forward and bluntly jerked Tenkei by the arms, including three other guards that held him, not being cautious of the boy's wounds, causing him to cry out.
"Stop it! Tenkei! Tsuzuki!" Hisoka raced to the two but was wrenched backward rudely by a strong arm. Miyuki smirked and mockingly teased Hisoka.
"Nah-ah-ah, Hisoka. We have a Ceremony to attend. And you're our star along with me."
Yume too was helpless as the cobras and the remanding four guards began yanking him out along with the others. Tenkei was the only one who was the most violent, slashing, biting, and screeching.
"No! Hisoka-san! Don't let him do it! Don't let that bastard do it!" Eventually, the guards and Yeiko were able to yank the boy away with Yume and Tsuzuki close behind.
Tsuzuki kicked and cried out, "Hisoka! Hisoka!" He freed an arm stretched out for Hisoka.
Hisoka too reached out for Tsuzuki's hand but once again twisted backward, into Miyuki's embrace. He incompetently watched Tsuzuki cry out for him and was gone. "Tsuzuki..."
"Time for the Ceremony my prince. That bastard will pay for his crime. In the meantime, let's go, shall we?"
Involuntarily, Hisoka headed back to the throne room, all hope drained from his mind.
~*~*~*~
"Hey! Let me down!"
Tsuzuki struggled forcefully against the vines that resembled thorn vines, which held him up against the wall. Tenkei, Byakko, and Yume were in a similar situation, except that Yume was on all fours and was held to the floor rather than the wall.
There is no way to escape! All we can hope for is something drastic to happen. These were created by Yeiko, which means that we are unable to penetrate them.
"Hisoka-san! Hisoka-san!"
Tenkei and Byakko were too struggling against their restraints, to no success though. Yeiko was at the throne, waiting for Hisoka and Miyuki while the guards were spread out among the room, prepared to stop any one from escaping. The captives were once again reunited in the room, all to the opposite side of the room from the guards, looks of disgust and anger flashing across them.
Tsuzuki stared up and watched Hisoka enter the room, Miyuki following close behind. He growled and fought with great strength but gave up once he felt a sharp sting coming from the bruises he created from his struggles.
Miyuki stood before the guards, Yeiko, and the four prisoners tied towards the back. "It is time for our Ceremony to begin. At this time, you will finally have a true prince!"
The guards gave a cry of approval and growled at the same time to show off their muscular strength. Their weapons were thrown high into the air, excitement crossing all of their features. The captives booed and shouted in protest, demanding for Hisoka's freedom.
It was then Hisoka understood what Miyuki's intentions were and quickly turned the opposite direction and fled. Sadly, Miyuki's eye caught the sudden movement and he had Hisoka in his arms in top time.
"My dear prince," he said with a seductive voice. "Don't tell me you're leaving already? I've only just begun." With that, Miyuki created a tiny orb in the palm of his palm and hurled it into the ground.
A large vine like wire slithered and tore out of the surface and caught Hisoka in his mid-section, pinning him about thirty feet from the ground, to the wall. His wrists were laced with the vine and pinned above his head. The rest of the vine slithered across his body and twined around his legs down to his ankles.
He cried out form the tight grip they had currently on him. All besides the guards had already began screaming and bellowing below him with great protest.
Miyuki laughed and flew up to where Hisoka was and stroked the boy's pale and horrified features. "Now...you are mine." He placed his hand before his chest and another glow came. He placed his hand on his chest and pulled out a lethal sword from it.
Yume exploded into rage. That's my mother's sword! He killed her! He killed her!
Tsuzuki's eyes widened. "How do you know it's the same?"
That circle of roses and that dragon inside of it is our symbol! The only possibility...Oh God, it can't be!
Miyuki laughed mischievously and said a small chant. A strong gush of wind flew through out the room, causing everyone to cringe. As the chants echoed throughout the room, Miyuki placed his lips upon Hisoka's. Hisoka cried out from the pain that began twisting inside him from the spell's effect, and Miyuki thrust his tongue in, taking advantage of the situation.
"Hisoka!" Tsuzuki fumed with great fury and jealously at the close contact Miyuki was making on Hisoka.
By this time, Miyuki pulled back and repeated the spell once again. Hisoka felt his energy drain with every word, which caused him to slump in defeat. All he could do was accept the fate that waited before him. He blinked upward and gasped. Miyuki raised the sword and flung it right at Hisoka's chest.
"HISOKA-SAN!"
Hisoka!
Everyone cried out when the shadows escaped contact with the earth and shot out in all directions. Some darted at the tied bunch and sliced their bonds with little effort while the other half shot at Miyuki, which then created him to flip backward, only to have his shoulder make contact with the shadows. Another went straight for the slaves and freed the bonds that connected them all by their ankles. They rejoiced with a cry of approval.
Next, Hisoka was cut lose and he plunged thirty feet down and down...
"HISOKA!"
...right into Tatsumi's awaiting arms.
Tsuzuki and the gang brushed themselves off and stared at the people before them. Hisoka was unconscious in Tatsumi's arms, with Watari beside him.
"Tatsumi! Watari!"
Watari grinned sheepishly. "Sorry for the delay, pal. We made it right on time though, right Tatsumi?"
Looking down at Hisoka, Tatsumi nodded. "Yes."
Tenkei ran up to Watari and smiled kindly. "Thank you for freeing us."
"No problem, Tenkei!"
Tsuzuki stared at Watari with perplexed looks. "How do you know him?"
Another grin. "He's the reason I found Miyuki's location."
Tsuzuki dashed to a corner and sulked, turning into a chibi inu. "Why am I always the last to know?"
A familiar laugh sounded through the room, shattering all side conversations, and all stared upward to see Miyuki. Despite the crimson stain that was appearing on his clothing, he appeared to look normal, with that evil lust in his eyes.
"You think it's over? Ha! Fools!" Miyuki looked downward at the thousands of soldiers underneath him, waiting for his command. "Take the boy and Hisoka then kill the rest! Kill anyone who dares to interfere! Even my captives!"
The guards let out a mighty roar and dashed as one right at the defenseless groups. Yeiko flew up, leading the running troops straight at the enemy. He divided the group into three parts; some went straight for the slaves that had participated in the fight to help Tsuzuki and his companions, while the others headed to distract the group and the other to kill.
"Ohhh! Ooooh! Big trouble! Byakko! Fire!" cried Tsuzuki. He then spun to face Tatsumi and Watari, with a determined look in his eyes. "You two guard Hisoka and the boy. Do whatever you have to do to keep them safe."
Both nodded and took off to the air, Watari holding Tenkei and Tatsumi carrying an out Hisoka in his arms, landing atop an edge that dipped upward. Watari set Tenkei down and took out a notepad and pen. He quickly began scribbling something.
"What are you doing?" questioned Tenkei, trying to tug on Watari's arm.
Watari chuckled evilly and proudly held up a photo of what Tenkei believed was supposed to be a dragon. He said, "It's my new creation! A dragon!"
He then commanded his drawing to come to life and create a defense around them. The crooked dragon oddly slithered around the group, fighting as much against the guards that it could with its misshapen claws.
Tatsumi sweatdropped. "Watari...Your drawings are so...." He was interrupted when a moan came from the bundle in his arms.
Emerald eyes blinked open, taking a look at their new surroundings. Hisoka gasped and struggled violently against the strong grip.
"Kurosak-kun, it's all right. It's us." Tatsumi smiled kindly and helped Hisoka down to his feet.
"What..."
He looked around and noticed Watari laughing evilly, too interested in his new and 'beautiful' creation. The screeching of inhuman tortures and wails of remorse caught Hisoka's ear. He kneeled down and peered over the ledge with awe.
"Tsuzuki! Tsuzuki!"
Byakko and Susaku were engaged in venomous battles with larger creatures, which appeared equal to their strength. Hisoka's eyes darted back in forth searching for Tsuzuki's form.
Hisoka's angered grew into irritation. "Where is he!"
A small hand was placed on his shoulder and Hisoka turned to see Tenkei. The boy pointed with a finger. "There! I see him!" he shouted indicating with his finger.
Hisoka trailed the direction where Tenkei pointed and saw Tsuzuki. Both he and Yume were currently engaged in a fatal battle with Miyuki and Yeiko, Miyuki with his sword, Yeiko with his sorcery, Yume with his swift abilities and Tsuzuki with his Shinigami gifts. Tsuzuki and Yume, and beside the disturbing looking paper drawing and the shadows, was the only thing that appeared to be in the way of them getting to where Tatsumi and the rest stood.
"Bouya! Tenkei! Get down!" Watari dashed and shoved both small figures, harshly to the ground, barely missing a blow from a guard. "Shit! Tatsumi, they're coming from above as well!"
Tatsumi grunted and tried to summon more dark shadows to assemble, to no success. "I am unable to control any more! There is just too many!"
Tenkei leaned upward on his elbow and said, "Miyuki can command as many guards to appear. They are not real! They are all images projected from our minds but they can cause harm to us."
Hisoka pushed away from Watari and continued to watch the bloody battle before him. "Miyuki...Why are you doing this...This wouldn't have happened if it weren't for me." Tears swore to trickle, but Hisoka forced them to stay hidden.
"Oh shit! Kurosaki-kun!"
All turned to Tatsumi and saw his cerulean eyes widened with pure fear. Finding the source to Tatsumi's shock, time stopped. Yeiko had managed to pass Tsuzuki and Yume and was heading straight for Hisoka. He had a malignant beam among his palms, ready to be hurled at, that would surely kill anyone within its path.
"HISOKA-SAN!"
Time began moving in a slow pace before Hisoka's eyes. Yeiko shot out his beam with a precise lock on his target. Slowly and slowly, the beam headed for Hisoka's weak body. Knowing that Hisoka would have no time to lurch away form the attack; Tenkei shouldered Hisoka forcefully, into Tatsumi and took the attack full on his abdomen.
All froze with disbelief. All battle ceased to halt even the one that was engaged with Tsuzuki and Miyuki.
Tenkei gasped out at the shock, soaring through his body, feeling the beam spear right through him. He felt himself plunge from the edge, helplessly heading towards the surface.
NO!!
With swift movement, Yume raced to even up with Tenkei's speed and caught the boy before he collided with the surface. He glided back down to the ground and slipped the boy off his shoulders, tendering him as best he could.
Tenkei...Tenkei!
The boy coughed, spitting blood upon his chest, where a deep whole was embedded oozing rich deep red blood.
Hisoka shook with rage and allowed the tears to roll down. "TENKEI!!!!!" Images of the boy's cheery face, always giving hope to those whom were down flashed through Hisoka's mind. He forced against Tatsumi and Watari's hold and leapt off the edge, stumbling to a halt.
"TENKEI!" He raced quickly to where Yume lied, cuddling the boy with great tender. He too kneeled and touched the boy's deathly face.
Surprisingly, it was Miyuki who went towards Yeiko, grabbing him forcefully by the collar. "You fool! I had strict orders not to harm him! How dare you! How dare you kill your future prince!"
Yeiko gave a cold stare. "He would have not been fit. Only I was meant to be prince!"
With that, Miyuki gave no hesitation to thrust his sword deep into Yeiko's body, chanting a verse from his spell. Everyone gasped with great alarm when they saw Yeiko's soul part from its body and explode into crystal like pieces.
At this time, Tsuzuki, Tatsumi, and Watari had huddled together, watching the scene before them. Both asked for Tsuzuki's condition and were relieved when there was no permanent damage. The living captives that were wounded or not, slouched and they too watched Tenkei heave for breath. Even the guards and snakes had stopped their battles, paying their respect for their dying prince.
Yume howled with sorrow and open his mind to all that he was able to connect with. Tenkei...I never got to tell you...I am so sorry. I promised that I would tell you one day...And I am sorry for not saying it sooner.
Tenkei's amethyst eyes turned to face Yume's dark ones, asking for an explanation.
My dear...younger brother...
All eyes shot out. Hisoka glared at Yume and demanded, "What are you saying?!"
Miyuki shot down form the sky and landed gracefully. His sword now slicked with Yeiko's blood embarked upon it. He smirked and said, "He is right. His real name is Tenkei Kyomeito. Our youngest brother of the throne."
Hisoka stood up and glared at Miyuki. He took a bold step to face Miyuki. "Miyuki!" he shouted, "Listen to me! What is happening to you?! We use to be good friends! You spoke to me when I was lonely, you comforted me when I was abused! Please, Miyuki! Come back to being what I thought once was a friend!"
A cruel laugh was heard. "My dear, Hisoka. The only thing that I will do is make you mine by taking your soul. Despite the tragic incident of my dear younger brother, it will not stop my plans. I am in near control. Once I have you, everything will be mine! " He raised his fatal sword and raced quickly at Hisoka.
"Hisoka!"
But Hisoka restrained himself from running. He took his stance and waited for the blow. The sword came inches to his chest and he shut his eyes tightly, refusing to watch the blood stream out; however, a shield barrier stopped the sword from attacking any further and sent Miyuki tumbling into one of his large beasts.
Tsuzuki turned upward to see the cause of the miracle and almost vomited with shock. A white cloaked form stood diligently, a silver eye staring threateningly at Miyuki.
"What is this, Miyuki? You disobeyed my orders? I thought I made it fairly clear that the boy was mine and mine forever! It hurts me to think that I trusted you with this. But I warned you, Miyuki. Once a puppet is created my its creator, it can never be created exactly the same again by the original. The creator always leaves his mark embarked upon his toy, indicating his ownership."
Miyuki spat bitterly, "I thought we got rid of you for good!"
A smirk appeared on Muraki's fine lips. "When a puppet cries for attention, its creator always returns."
~*~*~*~
A/N: Aaahhh, so loooong! And I wasn't even going to add Muraki but I needed to.
Mirai Kurosaki
Chapter 10
A/N: Don't you just love me? I posted two chapters for you this time instead of one! ^_^;;;
~*~*~*~
The two cloaked figures brushed by forcefully, pushing themselves to the front of the crowd. Both peered sharply through the thick cloaks, watching any sudden movement made by their enemy.
"I think now is the time to attack."
Byakko drew a hand out to stop Tsuzuki from continuing any further. "No. Let's see what happens next. Besides, I don't want to see you get hurt."
A sigh escaped Tsuzuki. "All right."
That was right when they heard the shattering scream that tore through their minds. Everyone besides Hisoka and Yume cried out and clutched their heads in agonizing pain. Images of the battle that had just currently ended flashed through their mind and the tormenting pain of what the boys had felt ripped through everyone's body.
Tsuzuki grunted and struggled to speak. "Wh...What's happening?"
"I...It must be a psychic attack." Byakko held his head tightly and cried out much like everyone was.
~*~*~*~
Yeiko and the guards were unable to haul away Hitaru's body due to the fact that they were kneeling and clutching their heads in torture by the attack sent at them.
Only Hisoka and Yume were able to sustain the control on their minds; however, they gave no thought to stop the boy's pain.
Still Tenkei screamed and cradled the precious bundle that lied dead upon him. Ignoring the pain that continued to fly through him, he poured his emotions straightly and the strongest at Miyuki who was groaning in pain as well.
"That...Little bitch..." Miyuki growled, trying to control his mind to no success.
Everyone's cries began to fade tediously when Tenkei came to a halt in his attack. Feeling as if he was making no progress, he continued to stare at Hitaru's lifeless face. He sniffled and then placed a soft kiss upon Hitaru's forehead. Noticing the boy's change in actions, Yeiko and the guards around him began reaching in rage at the body and Tenkei.
Hisoka noticed this and wrapped his arms protectively around the boy. Yume hurled in front of Hisoka and circled him, roaring and clawing at any hands that tried to touch him.
Yeiko reached out bravely but drew his hand back with a yelp. He held his now injured hand to his chest and stared harshly at Miyuki. "What now?"
Hisoka interrupted and said, "Leave him be. You have damaged him enough. He will stay with me. Only I can calm him down and you all know it. I'm sure Miyuki will not mind much. If anyone dares to question my superior stance, they can deal with Yume."
Yume let out another deadly roar sending a threatening warning to the guards.
Forgetting the task he was suppose to do after a battle, Miyuki panted but managed to say, "Fine. I have to deal with the captives."
Despite his hatred for Miyuki, Hisoka nodded and stood up, his mind only on the poor boy. He nudged the boy gently. "Come on, Tenkei. Let's get away from here."
Not daring to take his eyes away from the body, Tenkei gave a hesitant nod. Yume strolled to Tenkei and allowed the boy to set himself on his back, who was still clutching onto Hitaru's shell.
Hisoka set himself behind Tenkei, giving a dirty look at Yeiko. He turned his attention away from the traitor and whispered to Yume, "Let's go."
Yume stretched out his jagged wings and took off to Hisoka's room. The two cloaked figures watched the beast soar high into the building and zoom out. Both looked at each other and nodded. They melted from the crowd and, being cautious not to catch any unwanted attention, dashed out through an unguarded door, which Yume had flown through.
"Byakko, I want you to stay here, and keep an eye out for Miyuki. I'm going to find Hisoka."
Byakko nodded and went the opposite direction, back to the crowds as soon as Tsuzuki had left. Just as he was about to enter the room though, a form appeared before him and pounced on him, causing his mind to go black.
~*~*~*~
Yume landed before Hisoka's door and allowed all of them to bound off. Hisoka opened the large doors and waited for everyone to enter to room before he did.
Tenkei's tears had dried and left stained marks upon his rosy cheeks. His wounds did not bleed but left a nasty sensation in the skin. In either case, Tenkei placed Hitaru's body upon Hisoka's bed.
"Shouldn't we patch him up, Yume?"
Leave him be for now. He needs to do this.
"Do what?"
Yume looked up. Spirit ritual that Miyuki would usually perform himself. Tenkei was trained how to perform it, but rarely does it.
Not completely understanding, Hisoka stared up at the bloody Tenkei. Tenkei took each of Hitaru's deathly cold hands and entwined them, then placed it upon the still chest. He again removed a few strands of hair and placed one last kiss upon Hitaru.
"I will not allow Miyuki to take your soul, Hitaru-san. He will realize he had made a careless mistake for not taking it before we left and I won't have much time. But I will take it for you."
With a sigh, Tenkei pulled back his sleeves, revealing a wrist with a strange symbol on it. Due to how light it was, Hisoka couldn't tell what it was.
"What is that on his wrist?"
He was born with it. Classified as a birthmark.
Soft chants began filling the room from Tenkei's lips. A gentle breeze surrounded Hitaru and Tenkei's body, blowing the locks of hair. Tenkei closed his eyes and placed his hands over Hitaru's chest.
A tiny glow came from the chest and then throughout the entire body. The glowing body floated upwards and stood up, blinking slightly. A spirit, thought Hisoka, watching Hitaru's spirit stare into Tenkei's shut eyes.
The spirit bent forward and placed his lips upon Tenkei's in a ghostly kiss. A gasp came from Tenkei and the spirit allied himself with Tenkei's body. Both Yume and Hisoka continued to watch, not wanting to disturb Tenkei.
Once the spirit linked with Tenkei, Hitaru's body faded away and the breeze faded into extinction.
"Tenkei..."
The boy stared up at Hisoka and gave a slight smile. "His soul will always be with me now. But still..." He stared uneasily at his feat.
Yume came over and nuzzled Tenkei with his head daintily. Let's fix up your wounds.
Tenkei stroked Yume's fur and nodded. "Okay."
The room stood silent as both Yume and Hisoka took out medical tools and patched up Tenkei very vigilantly, minding his other wounds. Hisoka wrapped up Tenkei's legs while Yume was able to do the arms and chest after applying gauze.
Once the last bandage was wrapped around the boy's head by Hisoka, the materials were placed to the side and all sat upon the bed. Yume was lazily lying upon the pillows, while Hisoka held a sniffling Tenkei in his arms.
All was silent until Tenkei spoke up. "I am so confused, Hisoka...Hitaru called me Kyomeito," he explained, cuddling closer into Hisoka's chest for warmth.
"Join the club, kid."
With a cringe of surprise, all turned swiftly around, facing the voice. Yume was the first to leap off, growling softly in a warning to whoever had currently entered without permission.
A shadow crawled around and a form stepped into the light. Hisoka's eyes widened and he gasped with bewilderment.
"Tsuzuki!"
Tsuzuki grinned widely and asked, "Missed me, partner?"
With a cry of joy, Hisoka hurdled off the bed and stumbled into Tsuzuki's welcoming arms. His tears finally sprang freely at the comforting warmth and emotion soothing him. Tsuzuki too had a few tears and had his arms tightly and possessively holding to the cherished being within his grasp.
"Hisoka! I'm so relieved that you're not hurt!"
Hisoka stared up, not caring for the tears that ran down, and gave a tiny smile. "I missed you so much. I was so scared that Miyuki would find you," he said, leaking a river of tears that trickled down harder.
"Shhh. I'm here now. I won't leave you." Tsuzuki leaned down and kissed off the tears, drinking them as if they were priceless nectar. He then slightly turned his head and captured those teasing lips.
Yume had ceased to threaten Tsuzuki after realizing who he was. Tenkei was beside him giving a wide smile of approval as the Tsuzuki threw Hisoka into a passionate yet gentle kiss, tangling his slim fingers through the silky strands of wheat hair.
Both pulled back for breath after a moment, enjoying the heat from the other. They tightly held on to each other refusing to part.
Despite that Tenkei did not want to interrupt, he shrieked out loud and collapsed to the floor, cradling his head.
Tenkei-kun! What is it?
Hisoka and Tsuzuki dashed to the boy, comforting him. Tenkei relaxed under their touched but resumed to hold his injured head.
He said, "Yume-san, it's a Ceremony...but...I saw Hisoka....and Miyuki...."
It can't be! I thought he refused to do that! He wouldn't dare to do that to Hisoka!
"Perhaps they discovered something..."
Tsuzuki raised a confused eyebrow and asked, "What about Hisoka?"
Yume looked up at Tsuzuki and opened his mind to the older man. Hisoka is endangered. He must leave immediately...But how?
With great concern, Tsuzuki wrapped his arms protectively around Hisoka, who was just as shocked. Tenkei stood up once again and tugged on Hisoka's outfit. He had a frightened and amazed look within his Tsuzuki-like eyes.
Yume froze and lifted his head high up. He sniffed the area for a moment before letting a thunderous bellow. They know of Asato's presence! They-Ahhh!
A group of large cobras had leapt from nowhere and pinned down Yume, despite the struggles and blows he made. A few sent sharp bites to his body, which stopped his struggles immediately.
"Yume!" Hisoka spun around and saw Miyuki, Yeiko, and an entire group of soldiers creating a semi-circle behind them.
Miyuki stepped forward, a lustful look among his eyes, while Tsuzuki sheltered Hisoka from him. "You were correct, Yeiko. That bitch took Hitaru's soul and Tsuzuki-san had entered the palace. And I assume there was a romantic moment between him and my prince. It seems your friend didn't have much luck, though."
Two guards appeared and held a bruised and weak Byakko by the arms roughly. The Shikigami stared up at Tsuzuki and whispered an apology. Tsuzuki gave a sympathetic smile, understanding.
Miyuki gave Tsuzuki a deadly and dirty look. "Seize them all."
Five guards leapt up and brutally snatched Tsuzuki away from Hisoka, pinning him in an uncomfortable position. Yeiko stepped forward and bluntly jerked Tenkei by the arms, including three other guards that held him, not being cautious of the boy's wounds, causing him to cry out.
"Stop it! Tenkei! Tsuzuki!" Hisoka raced to the two but was wrenched backward rudely by a strong arm. Miyuki smirked and mockingly teased Hisoka.
"Nah-ah-ah, Hisoka. We have a Ceremony to attend. And you're our star along with me."
Yume too was helpless as the cobras and the remanding four guards began yanking him out along with the others. Tenkei was the only one who was the most violent, slashing, biting, and screeching.
"No! Hisoka-san! Don't let him do it! Don't let that bastard do it!" Eventually, the guards and Yeiko were able to yank the boy away with Yume and Tsuzuki close behind.
Tsuzuki kicked and cried out, "Hisoka! Hisoka!" He freed an arm stretched out for Hisoka.
Hisoka too reached out for Tsuzuki's hand but once again twisted backward, into Miyuki's embrace. He incompetently watched Tsuzuki cry out for him and was gone. "Tsuzuki..."
"Time for the Ceremony my prince. That bastard will pay for his crime. In the meantime, let's go, shall we?"
Involuntarily, Hisoka headed back to the throne room, all hope drained from his mind.
~*~*~*~
"Hey! Let me down!"
Tsuzuki struggled forcefully against the vines that resembled thorn vines, which held him up against the wall. Tenkei, Byakko, and Yume were in a similar situation, except that Yume was on all fours and was held to the floor rather than the wall.
There is no way to escape! All we can hope for is something drastic to happen. These were created by Yeiko, which means that we are unable to penetrate them.
"Hisoka-san! Hisoka-san!"
Tenkei and Byakko were too struggling against their restraints, to no success though. Yeiko was at the throne, waiting for Hisoka and Miyuki while the guards were spread out among the room, prepared to stop any one from escaping. The captives were once again reunited in the room, all to the opposite side of the room from the guards, looks of disgust and anger flashing across them.
Tsuzuki stared up and watched Hisoka enter the room, Miyuki following close behind. He growled and fought with great strength but gave up once he felt a sharp sting coming from the bruises he created from his struggles.
Miyuki stood before the guards, Yeiko, and the four prisoners tied towards the back. "It is time for our Ceremony to begin. At this time, you will finally have a true prince!"
The guards gave a cry of approval and growled at the same time to show off their muscular strength. Their weapons were thrown high into the air, excitement crossing all of their features. The captives booed and shouted in protest, demanding for Hisoka's freedom.
It was then Hisoka understood what Miyuki's intentions were and quickly turned the opposite direction and fled. Sadly, Miyuki's eye caught the sudden movement and he had Hisoka in his arms in top time.
"My dear prince," he said with a seductive voice. "Don't tell me you're leaving already? I've only just begun." With that, Miyuki created a tiny orb in the palm of his palm and hurled it into the ground.
A large vine like wire slithered and tore out of the surface and caught Hisoka in his mid-section, pinning him about thirty feet from the ground, to the wall. His wrists were laced with the vine and pinned above his head. The rest of the vine slithered across his body and twined around his legs down to his ankles.
He cried out form the tight grip they had currently on him. All besides the guards had already began screaming and bellowing below him with great protest.
Miyuki laughed and flew up to where Hisoka was and stroked the boy's pale and horrified features. "Now...you are mine." He placed his hand before his chest and another glow came. He placed his hand on his chest and pulled out a lethal sword from it.
Yume exploded into rage. That's my mother's sword! He killed her! He killed her!
Tsuzuki's eyes widened. "How do you know it's the same?"
That circle of roses and that dragon inside of it is our symbol! The only possibility...Oh God, it can't be!
Miyuki laughed mischievously and said a small chant. A strong gush of wind flew through out the room, causing everyone to cringe. As the chants echoed throughout the room, Miyuki placed his lips upon Hisoka's. Hisoka cried out from the pain that began twisting inside him from the spell's effect, and Miyuki thrust his tongue in, taking advantage of the situation.
"Hisoka!" Tsuzuki fumed with great fury and jealously at the close contact Miyuki was making on Hisoka.
By this time, Miyuki pulled back and repeated the spell once again. Hisoka felt his energy drain with every word, which caused him to slump in defeat. All he could do was accept the fate that waited before him. He blinked upward and gasped. Miyuki raised the sword and flung it right at Hisoka's chest.
"HISOKA-SAN!"
Hisoka!
Everyone cried out when the shadows escaped contact with the earth and shot out in all directions. Some darted at the tied bunch and sliced their bonds with little effort while the other half shot at Miyuki, which then created him to flip backward, only to have his shoulder make contact with the shadows. Another went straight for the slaves and freed the bonds that connected them all by their ankles. They rejoiced with a cry of approval.
Next, Hisoka was cut lose and he plunged thirty feet down and down...
"HISOKA!"
...right into Tatsumi's awaiting arms.
Tsuzuki and the gang brushed themselves off and stared at the people before them. Hisoka was unconscious in Tatsumi's arms, with Watari beside him.
"Tatsumi! Watari!"
Watari grinned sheepishly. "Sorry for the delay, pal. We made it right on time though, right Tatsumi?"
Looking down at Hisoka, Tatsumi nodded. "Yes."
Tenkei ran up to Watari and smiled kindly. "Thank you for freeing us."
"No problem, Tenkei!"
Tsuzuki stared at Watari with perplexed looks. "How do you know him?"
Another grin. "He's the reason I found Miyuki's location."
Tsuzuki dashed to a corner and sulked, turning into a chibi inu. "Why am I always the last to know?"
A familiar laugh sounded through the room, shattering all side conversations, and all stared upward to see Miyuki. Despite the crimson stain that was appearing on his clothing, he appeared to look normal, with that evil lust in his eyes.
"You think it's over? Ha! Fools!" Miyuki looked downward at the thousands of soldiers underneath him, waiting for his command. "Take the boy and Hisoka then kill the rest! Kill anyone who dares to interfere! Even my captives!"
The guards let out a mighty roar and dashed as one right at the defenseless groups. Yeiko flew up, leading the running troops straight at the enemy. He divided the group into three parts; some went straight for the slaves that had participated in the fight to help Tsuzuki and his companions, while the others headed to distract the group and the other to kill.
"Ohhh! Ooooh! Big trouble! Byakko! Fire!" cried Tsuzuki. He then spun to face Tatsumi and Watari, with a determined look in his eyes. "You two guard Hisoka and the boy. Do whatever you have to do to keep them safe."
Both nodded and took off to the air, Watari holding Tenkei and Tatsumi carrying an out Hisoka in his arms, landing atop an edge that dipped upward. Watari set Tenkei down and took out a notepad and pen. He quickly began scribbling something.
"What are you doing?" questioned Tenkei, trying to tug on Watari's arm.
Watari chuckled evilly and proudly held up a photo of what Tenkei believed was supposed to be a dragon. He said, "It's my new creation! A dragon!"
He then commanded his drawing to come to life and create a defense around them. The crooked dragon oddly slithered around the group, fighting as much against the guards that it could with its misshapen claws.
Tatsumi sweatdropped. "Watari...Your drawings are so...." He was interrupted when a moan came from the bundle in his arms.
Emerald eyes blinked open, taking a look at their new surroundings. Hisoka gasped and struggled violently against the strong grip.
"Kurosak-kun, it's all right. It's us." Tatsumi smiled kindly and helped Hisoka down to his feet.
"What..."
He looked around and noticed Watari laughing evilly, too interested in his new and 'beautiful' creation. The screeching of inhuman tortures and wails of remorse caught Hisoka's ear. He kneeled down and peered over the ledge with awe.
"Tsuzuki! Tsuzuki!"
Byakko and Susaku were engaged in venomous battles with larger creatures, which appeared equal to their strength. Hisoka's eyes darted back in forth searching for Tsuzuki's form.
Hisoka's angered grew into irritation. "Where is he!"
A small hand was placed on his shoulder and Hisoka turned to see Tenkei. The boy pointed with a finger. "There! I see him!" he shouted indicating with his finger.
Hisoka trailed the direction where Tenkei pointed and saw Tsuzuki. Both he and Yume were currently engaged in a fatal battle with Miyuki and Yeiko, Miyuki with his sword, Yeiko with his sorcery, Yume with his swift abilities and Tsuzuki with his Shinigami gifts. Tsuzuki and Yume, and beside the disturbing looking paper drawing and the shadows, was the only thing that appeared to be in the way of them getting to where Tatsumi and the rest stood.
"Bouya! Tenkei! Get down!" Watari dashed and shoved both small figures, harshly to the ground, barely missing a blow from a guard. "Shit! Tatsumi, they're coming from above as well!"
Tatsumi grunted and tried to summon more dark shadows to assemble, to no success. "I am unable to control any more! There is just too many!"
Tenkei leaned upward on his elbow and said, "Miyuki can command as many guards to appear. They are not real! They are all images projected from our minds but they can cause harm to us."
Hisoka pushed away from Watari and continued to watch the bloody battle before him. "Miyuki...Why are you doing this...This wouldn't have happened if it weren't for me." Tears swore to trickle, but Hisoka forced them to stay hidden.
"Oh shit! Kurosaki-kun!"
All turned to Tatsumi and saw his cerulean eyes widened with pure fear. Finding the source to Tatsumi's shock, time stopped. Yeiko had managed to pass Tsuzuki and Yume and was heading straight for Hisoka. He had a malignant beam among his palms, ready to be hurled at, that would surely kill anyone within its path.
"HISOKA-SAN!"
Time began moving in a slow pace before Hisoka's eyes. Yeiko shot out his beam with a precise lock on his target. Slowly and slowly, the beam headed for Hisoka's weak body. Knowing that Hisoka would have no time to lurch away form the attack; Tenkei shouldered Hisoka forcefully, into Tatsumi and took the attack full on his abdomen.
All froze with disbelief. All battle ceased to halt even the one that was engaged with Tsuzuki and Miyuki.
Tenkei gasped out at the shock, soaring through his body, feeling the beam spear right through him. He felt himself plunge from the edge, helplessly heading towards the surface.
NO!!
With swift movement, Yume raced to even up with Tenkei's speed and caught the boy before he collided with the surface. He glided back down to the ground and slipped the boy off his shoulders, tendering him as best he could.
Tenkei...Tenkei!
The boy coughed, spitting blood upon his chest, where a deep whole was embedded oozing rich deep red blood.
Hisoka shook with rage and allowed the tears to roll down. "TENKEI!!!!!" Images of the boy's cheery face, always giving hope to those whom were down flashed through Hisoka's mind. He forced against Tatsumi and Watari's hold and leapt off the edge, stumbling to a halt.
"TENKEI!" He raced quickly to where Yume lied, cuddling the boy with great tender. He too kneeled and touched the boy's deathly face.
Surprisingly, it was Miyuki who went towards Yeiko, grabbing him forcefully by the collar. "You fool! I had strict orders not to harm him! How dare you! How dare you kill your future prince!"
Yeiko gave a cold stare. "He would have not been fit. Only I was meant to be prince!"
With that, Miyuki gave no hesitation to thrust his sword deep into Yeiko's body, chanting a verse from his spell. Everyone gasped with great alarm when they saw Yeiko's soul part from its body and explode into crystal like pieces.
At this time, Tsuzuki, Tatsumi, and Watari had huddled together, watching the scene before them. Both asked for Tsuzuki's condition and were relieved when there was no permanent damage. The living captives that were wounded or not, slouched and they too watched Tenkei heave for breath. Even the guards and snakes had stopped their battles, paying their respect for their dying prince.
Yume howled with sorrow and open his mind to all that he was able to connect with. Tenkei...I never got to tell you...I am so sorry. I promised that I would tell you one day...And I am sorry for not saying it sooner.
Tenkei's amethyst eyes turned to face Yume's dark ones, asking for an explanation.
My dear...younger brother...
All eyes shot out. Hisoka glared at Yume and demanded, "What are you saying?!"
Miyuki shot down form the sky and landed gracefully. His sword now slicked with Yeiko's blood embarked upon it. He smirked and said, "He is right. His real name is Tenkei Kyomeito. Our youngest brother of the throne."
Hisoka stood up and glared at Miyuki. He took a bold step to face Miyuki. "Miyuki!" he shouted, "Listen to me! What is happening to you?! We use to be good friends! You spoke to me when I was lonely, you comforted me when I was abused! Please, Miyuki! Come back to being what I thought once was a friend!"
A cruel laugh was heard. "My dear, Hisoka. The only thing that I will do is make you mine by taking your soul. Despite the tragic incident of my dear younger brother, it will not stop my plans. I am in near control. Once I have you, everything will be mine! " He raised his fatal sword and raced quickly at Hisoka.
"Hisoka!"
But Hisoka restrained himself from running. He took his stance and waited for the blow. The sword came inches to his chest and he shut his eyes tightly, refusing to watch the blood stream out; however, a shield barrier stopped the sword from attacking any further and sent Miyuki tumbling into one of his large beasts.
Tsuzuki turned upward to see the cause of the miracle and almost vomited with shock. A white cloaked form stood diligently, a silver eye staring threateningly at Miyuki.
"What is this, Miyuki? You disobeyed my orders? I thought I made it fairly clear that the boy was mine and mine forever! It hurts me to think that I trusted you with this. But I warned you, Miyuki. Once a puppet is created my its creator, it can never be created exactly the same again by the original. The creator always leaves his mark embarked upon his toy, indicating his ownership."
Miyuki spat bitterly, "I thought we got rid of you for good!"
A smirk appeared on Muraki's fine lips. "When a puppet cries for attention, its creator always returns."
~*~*~*~
A/N: Aaahhh, so loooong! And I wasn't even going to add Muraki but I needed to.