Author's Note: Thanks to my reviewers! I'm glad the first chapter obtained such a nice reception. ^-^ I only hope you continue to enjoy the story.
'' indicates thoughts (or telepathy _ _)
//\\ indicates POV
Special thanks to Theria.net, the source I used for locating the summoning spell. It is the manga version, different from the one in the anime only slightly. I just felt I needed to give them credit as a resource. ^-^V
Warning: I cannot write battle scenes worth anything, so if it seems a bit... lacking, this is why. I tried though, and that should count for something... right?
//Hisoka\\
Trapped. Lost in a sea of blood and tears. Floating amongst a wave of pain and anguish.
I knew that connecting with the victim would be dangerous, that I might lose my sense of self. All of my worst fears have come true. I am trapped in the loop of her pain; I relive her death time and time again. Her screams are horrifying; her pleas for her life are far, far worse. I know she will receive no mercy, not from this man.
Muraki has never been merciful, not to me, not to this girl... not to anyone. I recognize the gleam in his one silver eye, the eerie luminescence of the other. There is no mistaking the look on his face, the satisfied predator, the sated lust for blood.
As much as I want to break away, I know I cannot do so. The knife in her back is the knife in my back; the pain in her eye is the pain in my eye. As her lifeblood slowly ebbs away, I feel mine do the same. All is darkness; all is lost.
I can only shiver as the ruby liquid coats my body, a lukewarm bath that sickens me. I know that I am caked with it; I am as a newborn infant from the mother's womb, wearing the blood as a second skin. The fact does not help at all; if anything, it makes it worse. For this blood, it is not mine. And yet it is... it is...
The pounding of my heart fills my ears. No... the pounding of OUR hearts. Two distinct tempos, rapidly synchronizing. Two rich bass sounds, achieving an almost perfect unison. Two heartbeats... slowing... slowing...
As Death brushes a silken hand against my soul, I find that the only person in my mind is my partner. Strange that I should think of Tsuzuki now, how I will never see him smile again, how I will fight with him... or even hear his voice...
'Hisoka? HISOKA?!'
Slowly, painfully, I open my single eye, gazing upward from the reddish haze of my vision. I see nothing, and despite everything, I am forced to find amusement at my own weakness. So close to death, yearning so desperately to see him once more, I have concocted an illusion to soothe me.
My breathing becomes ragged as my body labors to stay alive, and I try to respond to that concerned call. Even if it is but a figment of my imagination, I yearn to answer, to speak with him again. All that I can manage to do is cough up blood, feeling it's warm stickiness cling to my throat. A brief sense of nausea afflicts me, bile rising to join the metallic ooze. Soon... it will all be over soon...
The last bit of my strength begins to ebb away, and sadly, I send a soft message to my partner, wherever he may be, 'Tsuzui... I'm sorry... I can't hold on...'
'Hisoka? Hisoka, please! Hisoka, I don't want you to die!'
That... voice... It commands me, it moves through me, and I hardly believe it as I see an outline coming closer. I recognize those purple eyes, that tall stature, the chocolate brown hair framing a beautiful face, on full of concern.
'T...Tsu...Tsuzuki?' My mental tendril must seem pitifully weak to him, but as it touches his mind, joy fills my soul. Here is something concrete; something I can latch onto. It is full of warmth and... and love?
'Hold on to me; I won't let you fall... I won't let you go...'
I feel him take me into his arms, finding bliss in this simple state, mind to mind, soul to soul, heart to heart. I am lifted from the blood, the pain, the anguish; all the darkness and ice of evil melt away at his warm touch.
His soul pulsates with light and life, smothering me with a satisfaction I have never known before, 'Hisoka... I love you; I need you. Please... don't leave me here alone...'
Like a plant left out of the sun for too long, I soak in his love, his care. And suddenly, with that calm clarity that only a near death experience can bring, I realize something.
'Tsuzuki... I love you too...'
His happiness washes over me, as intoxicating as any wine, his voice both soothing and commanding, 'Then come back to me... let this girl finally find peace. Let her die within you, and come back to the light!'
I blink my eyes. My EYES! This simple fact, along with the lack of pain and blood, assure me that I am again in the world to which I belong. And the first sight to greet me is the purest smile I have ever seen grace my partner's face, "Welcome back..."
I give a shy smile of my own, burying my head into his shoulder, realizing that he is holding me close to his chest. Strangely... I don't care. All of the nervousness and fear I usually experience when sharing another's thoughts and emotions have vanished. I feel... bonded with him. He has become a part of my heart, a part of my very soul.
Only once before have we ever melded so completely, when he had to use my body to direct a spell against Muraki. And even that experience paled in comparison to this. For the first time in my life, I feel whole. Imagine a blind man who has gained his sight, or a mute who can suddenly speak. I feel so alive, so rich in spirit!
Hearing someone kneel on the ground, I look away from Tsuzuki, seeing Watari's relieved smile, "Hisoka, thank goodness! You gave us quite a scare there!"
Nodding, I slide reluctantly, so reluctantly out of my love's strong embrace, once again donning my mask of emotionless serenity, "Forgive me, Watari. I am merely thankful that one of you was able to break me free in time. I nearly lost my life, as surely as the victim did."
Even as I speak the words, I feel a mental stab, a feeling of deep disappointment, 'Once again... he's so cold, so serious...'
Shocked, I feel my eyes widen, and once again I direct my energy towards my partner, 'Tsuzuki? Can you hear me?'
Surprise ripples through my mind, waves full of static, and his disbelief is apparent, even in mind to mind communication, 'HISOKA?! But how? I'm... I'm not touching you!'
'I don't know! Hold on...' I search my mind, and there I find it. A shimmering, golden link, one I can feel quite strongly. I touch it, and I hear Tsuzuki's mental gasp. Sheepishly, I admit to him, 'I... I think we've become permanently bonded...'
'... you mean I'm never going to be able to keep myself out of your mind again?'
'Well, I'm sure there IS a way for us to control it. Given time, I am also sure that we will find it,' I reply, raising my mental shielding as much as I possible can. It does not help very much, as I can still sense all of his emotions and even some of his louder thoughts, but it is better than nothing.
Life has certainly turned a bit more interesting...
//Watari\\
There are no words to describe the relief I feel as I see Hisoka returning to his normal self, nor the incredible sweetness of seeing he and Tsuzuki together. Alas, there is also a twang of bitterness, and I am too honest with myself to deny it. To know that they have learned their emotions for each other, or at least admitted it to themselves, from this experience, and to know that it was my urging that caused it... how perfectly ironic. Me, the emotionally inexperienced, the loveless. It is a strangely humorous thing.
As they separate, I see both of them gaze at each other with a startled expression, and for a moment I fear something has gone terribly wrong. To match my anxiety, 003 gives a small screech, but I soothe him with a quick stroke of the head, "What is it?"
Tsuzuki looks at me first, his face flushed with confusion and aggravation, "It's Hisoka... he's in my head, and I can't get him out!"
Of all the things he could have possibly said, I must admit this one probably takes me the most by surprise. My eyes widen ever so slightly, and I hear myself blurting out, like a fool, "What?"
Hisoka's emerald eyes pierce my soul with their coldness as he speaks, "Apparently when he entered my mind to save me from death, Tsuzuki bonded with me some how. It is a new, thin bond now; I'm sure someone with the right powers could snap it."
A scientist's intrigue overtakes me, and I begin to question him, "What sort of a bond is it? Do you think you could break it yourself?"
"I can hear his thoughts, feel his emotions," the boy states, showing none of the signs of anxiety his partner does. "No... I do not think I could break this bond myself. I am not sure I would even want to. I do not know what caused this to happen, but perhaps it will become useful in the long run."
Tsuzuki gives a cry, clearly flabbergasted, "USEFUL?! How on earth could this be USEFUL?!"
Seeing Hisoka's mouth set in a grim line, I can imagine the sting of his words, normally poisonous, turning even more toxic as Tsuzuki could feel the emotion behind them. Quickly I speak up, "I can think of several. For one thing, you will always know how to locate one another, even over long distances. You can communicate silently when faced with an enemy and plan strategy with it. Do you not think that is an advantage?"
He opens his mouth to speak, but shuts it again abruptly, actually considering what I have said. I will not say this surprises me too much; Tsuzuki is, for all of his childish acting, very serious about his job. However, I can never stop the chill that runs down my spine whenever I see that cold, calculating look overtake his normally warm violet eyes, almost as though another mind has come and taken over the body of the friend I have known for so long.
Then, all at once, that icy presence vanishes, and he smiles, "Not to mention the most important thing of all!"
Hisoka's slender eyebrow raises, "Oh?"
"You can never hide anything from me again, and I can tease you whenever I want!"
"What?! Only YOU would think that the most important advantage!"
Once again they break off into their famous squabbling, and I smile as 003 nips my cheek playfully. It seems as though, despite the near death of Hisoka, everything is starting to take a turn for the best.
Even as I think the thoughts, I take a glance up to the sky. The light had been becoming dimmer and dimmer; I thought this meant the sun was setting. But, as I look up now, I see to my surprise that it is not so. Thick, black clouds are rolling in fast from the east, covering the golden sun from view. Gusts of wind begin to blow heavily, and I shudder, struggling to wrap my coat tighter about me.
The air becomes icy, and 003 hides himself within my jacket, trying to escape the winds that buffet against him. Hisoka and Tsuzuki also notice this sudden change, and together, the three of us face the wind, trying to determine where it is coming from.
The answer appears all too quickly, as a place not ten feet away from us becomes a swirling vortex of blue and silver light, and the gusts continue to grow in strength. The colors of the light vanish, replaced with pure white. The intensity is too much; I shield my eyes lest I become momentarily blind.
Even before the illumination passes, a deafening roar erupts from the vortex, a sound that causes my heart to plummet. Tsuzuki gives a muffled curse, and I can barely make out his shout above the sound, "DAMN IT! Someone's summoning a creature here!"
A creature? As soon as the light begins to fade, I remove my hand, determined to see just what it is we find ourselves up against.
I wish I had not done so. Although I have spent my afterlife in the research of demons of all kinds, nothing has truly prepared me for this sight. I recognize the creature quickly enough as an Oni, a demon and ogre mix. Its purplish flesh stretches tightly over its muscular frame, revealing every thick vein pulsating with life. Luminous yellow eyes gaze out from the misshapen face, and when it opens its mouth to cry again, I can clearly make out its sharp fangs.
And while none of this comes as any real surprise to the logical part of my mind, another part is in sheer terror of this grotesque being. 003 shudders from within the safety of my coat, and I see Tsuzuki and Hisoka preparing to attack. But it is I, the powerless buffoon, who remains the closest to this monstrosity.
The Oni scans them both, then turns his eyes back to me. My heart begins to beat rapidly, and before I can even think to react, I hear my own screams in my ears. Pain lances through my body as the beast's claws slice open my chest, and I give another yell as the force of the blow sends me flying, hitting a nearby wall.
"WATARI!"
I only dimly make out the sound of my own name, and as I open my eyes slowly, I see that my wounds have caused a great pool of blood to form around me. I seem to bathed in the warm, slick muck, and my skin crawls in revulsion. I feel 003 struggling to escape his hiding place, and though it takes far too much effort, I release my feathered companion. He immediately lets out a hoot of distress, his eyes wider than ever, glowing with his strangely human concern, and he gently nestles against my face, apparently unconcerned with the preening his feather will require to remove the blood later.
I know these wounds will heal quickly, although they are painful, and I yearn to comfort him, but I cannot find the words for it. As I stare helplessly out at the battle, it is obvious that Tsuzuki and Hisoka are in need of aid. The Oni attacks too fast for them to have the time they require to summon a creature of their own; it is only a matter of time before the beast destroys them.
And what can I do? Nothing, absolutely nothing! Once more I am forced to bear witness as my friends struggle for their lives, once more I have been reduced to a helpless state! Rage overtakes my heart then, and it is in this moment of pure, cold fury that I am struck with genius. I can provide a distraction for the two of them, giving them the chance they need to summon something to protect them. Even if I can do nothing else, I can perform this simple task.
I detach myself from my body, away from the pain I should be feeling, away from the fear. My mind has already formulated the plan; all I must do now is carry it out. No time for human timidity now; no time to fall prey to panic and doubt!
I yank the orange bow from my head, ignoring the feel of my long hair freely floating in the wind, and I dip the fabric into my own blood. Soundlessly I begin to create a picture on the wall, allowing the fresh liquid to act as the reddest of paints. What does it matter now if it looks the art of a child? Size... size is what matters. Something large enough to distract the Oni, something large enough to put up a fight until it could be destroyed along with the beast it was fighting.
Frantically, feverishly, I paint the creature. I hear nothing from the battlefield; I hear nothing from anywhere. I see nothing but that which lies ahead of me. I feel nothing; I think of nothing. Nothing but this picture matters.
Adding the final touches, I slip out of my self-incurred working state. I realize that, although the wounds are already almost healed, I have lost a great deal of blood. I feel light-headed, dizzy, and as I dab the irises in the non-seeing eyes, I feel my own vision blur. Sinking to my knees, with 003 flying about in a state of panic, I think only one thought, directing it with all my strength and will before the blackness clawing at my consciousness overtakes me.
'LIVE!'
//Tsuzuki\\
"WATARI!"
Even as I scream my friend's name, I see his body sink to the ground. I witness the pool of blood form around him, crimson tendrils spreading out, growing every moment. Although I know he cannot die, that does nothing to soothe me. Rich, cold anger gnaws at my insides, and with a snarl I turn to face the attacker.
Strangely, the monster seems to have no interest in me. He studies me closely for a time with his glowing saffron eyes, and then he turns to Hisoka, giving him the same scrutiny.
Almost immediately he lashes out, and my partner is barely able to dodge the blow. I rush towards him, helping him avoid yet another attack.
As I stand in front of Hisoka, the beast seems confused, almost as though he is debating something. A clawed hand snatches me by the coat, and I feel myself lifted off my feet and tossed aside.
Compared to the force with which Watari had been attacked, this is amazingly gentle, and I hardly feel any pain as I hit the ground. These actions puzzle me, but I am back on my feet in an instant as Hisoka cries out, those claws that only just released me digging themselves into his flesh.
I feel the still new experience of sending thoughts through our link, as his message comes through, words tinged with pain, 'Stay back! You have to summon a guardian to defeat him!'
'But... you're hurt!'
Quicksilver laughter through our bond, a sound I truly marvel at. Hisoka never laughs... 'Tsuzuki, for whatever reason, you have some sort of protection against this demon; you are the only one he has not attacked! You must do this, because Watari and I cannot!'
I know that this is logical and true, but the very core of my being rejects it. How can I stand by, while this demon attacks my love and my dear friend?
Hearing 003's panicky cries, I glance to check on Watari out of the corner of my eye, and I give a gasp. The wounded scientist is on his feet, despite his injuries, but it is his actions that cause me to nearly cry out.
He appears to be intently producing a picture, using his own blood as the medium. I watch, fascinated, as he completes his task, falling back to the ground.
'Tsuzuki... he's trying to make that picture come alive!'
Hisoka's words come as no surprise to me; I had forgotten that he has never seen Watari's power before. He has simply not been a shinigami long enough, I suppose.
Yet, as I think about it, I cannot remember a time that I have ever seen the scientist USE his power. I have always known what it was, of course; it was never kept a secret from me. As I peruse my memories, I recall several instances of his genius with machinery, computer research, small medicine... but never once the use of his power.
'Well... I'm seeing it now...'
How to truly describe such a sight? Perhaps in some childhood fantasy I dreamed of a painting coming to life; I'm sure everyone has. We see pictures so realistic that it seems a soul is merely trapped on canvas, a human or thing waiting to be plucked. But to actually SEE it happen is something entirely different.
When the picture created in Watari's blood raises its arms, when its legs move, and you realize that this moving, seemingly alive thing was only moments before a grotesque graffiti, it is completely awe inspiring. I stand, quite stupidly, gawking at it.
The drawing is that of a giant beast, one large enough to stand up against the demon we face. Even as they begin to grapple, I continue to watch, this mystifying meeting of Titans.
'Tsuzuki... wake up! Now is the perfect time to perform a summoning; do not waste the distraction Watari has given us!'
Hisoka's mental lash is enough to shake me from my mindless stare, and I nod, preparing the spell I have used so many times in the past.
"Humbly do I present..."
Close my eyes, ignore the sounds of battle around me. Concentrate on the task; do not become distracted.
"My wish to those twelve that grant me divine protection..."
Forget about Watari, slowly healing. Forget about Hisoka, powerless to do anything. Forget what could happen to the two of them in the time it takes to cast this...
An agonized scream fills the air; I feel the pain channeling through me. But it does not matter now...
"I command you to appear before me!! SUZAKU!"
//Muraki\\
From my vantage point, I smile softly to myself. Things certainly have not gone according to plan...
I realize now that it was a mistake to summon the Oni. While obedient and thorough, I often forget that they have a terrible tendency to become distracted by things in battle.
It is of no great surprise or consequence that the beast is defeated. It is the way in which it was done that so intrigues me...
I do not make reference to my love's summoning of the phoenix, Suzaku. This truly magnificent sight I have seen before, though it is always a joy to witness it once again. Those splendid flames suddenly appearing, basking my Tsuzuki's face in a warm, orange glow, and the great bird itself, feathers formed of fire, an inferno incarnate as it mercilessly destroys both my Oni and the strange beast that had been designed to serve as a distraction are a sight I shall never forget.
A strange beast indeed, especially in its creation. For years I have known of the mystic properties assigned to blood; I know I am consumed its strangely magnetic allure. Every religion on earth finds power in this simple bodily liquid; everyone values it beyond all reason. It is the most precious tribute to the gods; it is that which it is forbidden for mere mortals to spill, to taste, to desire without expecting
Yet, even knowing all of this, nothing truly prepared me for the sight I witnessed. The sight of blood coming to life...
I had not been particular pleased when the Oni had gone after the man named Watari instead of the boy I despise so much, but I am forced to admit it was the logical course of action. I had ordered him to destroy them both; the scientist was the closest target.
Of course, his failure to actually hit the boy himself I noted with disgust. Then again, with Tsuzuki, my beloved, immune to attack, I should have realized he would have a puppy loyal bodyguard to protect him at every turn. The mere thought of it makes me sneer in distaste.
Yet, it seems all has not been lost. As I watched the pitiful battle, I noticed movement out of the corner of my eye. I cannot adequately express my surprise at seeing the injured scientist stumble to his feet, beginning to form a picture with his own blood or my even greater astonishment at witnessing it come to life.
Elation filled my heart, a triumph that has not yet faded. With this blood, I can bring life to Saki. The power will flow through him, allowing him to become revived, even if it is only for a mere few moments. Those precious moments will be enough for me to destroy him myself, riding this plane of his existence once and for all.
Yet, the best part of all is that none of this will involve my precious doll, Tsuzuki. I can have my revenge on my bastard brother, but I can also allow myself to fully savor my experiences with Tsuzuki. With Saki out of the way, it would be only a matter of time before I was able to taste my love to the fullest. The mere thought causes me to smile.
Scanning the now desolate battle field, I am hardly surprised to see Tsuzuki rush to his partner's side instead of the more injured Watari. I know, perhaps better than anyone, that a consuming love can force you to ignore your sense of logic. However, unlike me, I know he will regret this action later, regarding it as selfish. Which, of course, it is, so at the very least he is not tormenting himself for nothing.
Quietly, as not to attract attention, I slide from my place, making my way over to the still bleeding scientist. In the darkness that now comes from the lateness of hour and not my summoning spell, the moonlight causes his flesh, naturally pale from the loss of blood to become even paler and the spilt blood to take on a silver sheen. He appears the very essence of Death, yet the steady rise and fall of his chest shows all to clearly his life...
To look at him forces me to recall the words of Bram Stoker's Dracula, and as I kneel beside him, I cannot help but whisper them aloud, "'The blood is the life...' Indeed, in you it seems to be true..."
Is it my imagination or does he truly shiver at the sound of my voice? No... truly impossible; he is completely unconscious. I reach out to brush aside some of his hair, attempting to gain a closer look at his face.
Instead, I feel a sharp pain in my fingers, and I look down to see that a tiny owl has buried his beak into my flesh. My other hand strikes with the speed of a snake, catching him by the neck. He gives a slight screech of pain, but it is not very loud, since I quickly cut off most of his air supply, leaving him only enough to breath.
I recognize the bird as the constant companion of the injured scientist, and I laugh, addressing it as it tries to free itself, the sharp beak opening and closing soundlessly, "Admirable, really. Perhaps I should break your neck and end it quickly for you..."
Ah, intoxicating fear rising in those naturally wide eyes. My smile widening, I tighten my hand slowly, so slowly, cutting of the airflow bit by bit...
"N-no..."
The soft moan catches my attention, and I turn to see half-open golden eyes staring at me, every bit as fascinating as the pain filled ones of my feathered victim. The wounded man licks his lips slowly, speaking again after a few moments of labored breathing, "Don't... kill... him..."
I cease to strangle the owl, looking more intently at him. Even as he struggles to remain conscious, I can see the fear in his eyes, a concern meant purely for his bird. Chuckling, I lean to speak into his ear, "So much love for such a small thing? You are even worse than Tsuzuki..."
His only response is his rasping breaths, but as I reach to touch his long, yellow hair, he visibly shudders. As always, the knowledge of my own power over my prey fills me with pleasure and satisfaction. It seems so easy just to take him now, spirit him away and obtain his life-giving blood.
"MURAKI!"
I slide my eyes in the direction from which my name is called, my smile merely deepening at the sight of my Tsuzuki standing angrily to the side, his hands clutched into fists. The cold, green eyes of his child partner greet me also, but ignore them, "Hello, Tsuzuki. And here I am, thinking that this was going to be easy..."
Delicious anger rising in his jewel-like eyes as he speaks his next words, "What was going to be easy? What are you planning now?"
"Now, I cannot very well tell you that. It would make the game far less interesting, would it not?" I know this answer will only infuriate him more, and I smirk, turning back to the owl still captured in my hand. Removing the other from its position in Watari's hair, I carefully grasp a flailing wing and break it.
Whether it is the sound of the snapping bone or the pain-filled cry of the bird that forces the scientist's eyes open I do not know, but the horror and agony I read there are worth more than gold. Tossing the animal aside, I whisper once more in his ear, "I shall return for you..."
Without waiting for any form of response, I rise to my feet. I know blood stains my once immaculate white garments, but it is not the first time it has happened, nor will it be the last. I give a slight bow to my beloved, "I am sorry I cannot stay longer, Tsuzuki, but I fear that if I do you will cease to remain in that perfectly lovely, motionless state and attempt to detain me. This, of course, I cannot allow."
He flies at me, attempting to strike me with his fist, but I catch it and merely pull him to me, "I am surprised you would attempt something so inelegant and useless, Tsuzuki; you allow your emotions to cloud your better judgment. So it is that, every time, I catch you and bring you a little bit closer to me, and one day... one day I simply will not wish to let you go."
His response is a snarl, "It will be a cold day in Hell before that happens, I can assure you..."
Planting a soft kiss on his forehead before I push him into his partner, I nod, "I can wait that long for you, Tsuzuki. If I have anything, it is a wealth of patience."
Without giving them time to recover, I vanish, traveling the same path from which I came. I consider briefly traveling to the storage unit that holds Saki, but I decide against it. There is no need for me to gloat just this instant.
No... I believe I shall gloat when I am certain he can hear it, right before I end his miserable life. I make my way towards my home instead, for now new preparations must be made.
After all, if I am to have a guest, I cannot appear to be shabby host, can I?
'' indicates thoughts (or telepathy _ _)
//\\ indicates POV
Special thanks to Theria.net, the source I used for locating the summoning spell. It is the manga version, different from the one in the anime only slightly. I just felt I needed to give them credit as a resource. ^-^V
Warning: I cannot write battle scenes worth anything, so if it seems a bit... lacking, this is why. I tried though, and that should count for something... right?
//Hisoka\\
Trapped. Lost in a sea of blood and tears. Floating amongst a wave of pain and anguish.
I knew that connecting with the victim would be dangerous, that I might lose my sense of self. All of my worst fears have come true. I am trapped in the loop of her pain; I relive her death time and time again. Her screams are horrifying; her pleas for her life are far, far worse. I know she will receive no mercy, not from this man.
Muraki has never been merciful, not to me, not to this girl... not to anyone. I recognize the gleam in his one silver eye, the eerie luminescence of the other. There is no mistaking the look on his face, the satisfied predator, the sated lust for blood.
As much as I want to break away, I know I cannot do so. The knife in her back is the knife in my back; the pain in her eye is the pain in my eye. As her lifeblood slowly ebbs away, I feel mine do the same. All is darkness; all is lost.
I can only shiver as the ruby liquid coats my body, a lukewarm bath that sickens me. I know that I am caked with it; I am as a newborn infant from the mother's womb, wearing the blood as a second skin. The fact does not help at all; if anything, it makes it worse. For this blood, it is not mine. And yet it is... it is...
The pounding of my heart fills my ears. No... the pounding of OUR hearts. Two distinct tempos, rapidly synchronizing. Two rich bass sounds, achieving an almost perfect unison. Two heartbeats... slowing... slowing...
As Death brushes a silken hand against my soul, I find that the only person in my mind is my partner. Strange that I should think of Tsuzuki now, how I will never see him smile again, how I will fight with him... or even hear his voice...
'Hisoka? HISOKA?!'
Slowly, painfully, I open my single eye, gazing upward from the reddish haze of my vision. I see nothing, and despite everything, I am forced to find amusement at my own weakness. So close to death, yearning so desperately to see him once more, I have concocted an illusion to soothe me.
My breathing becomes ragged as my body labors to stay alive, and I try to respond to that concerned call. Even if it is but a figment of my imagination, I yearn to answer, to speak with him again. All that I can manage to do is cough up blood, feeling it's warm stickiness cling to my throat. A brief sense of nausea afflicts me, bile rising to join the metallic ooze. Soon... it will all be over soon...
The last bit of my strength begins to ebb away, and sadly, I send a soft message to my partner, wherever he may be, 'Tsuzui... I'm sorry... I can't hold on...'
'Hisoka? Hisoka, please! Hisoka, I don't want you to die!'
That... voice... It commands me, it moves through me, and I hardly believe it as I see an outline coming closer. I recognize those purple eyes, that tall stature, the chocolate brown hair framing a beautiful face, on full of concern.
'T...Tsu...Tsuzuki?' My mental tendril must seem pitifully weak to him, but as it touches his mind, joy fills my soul. Here is something concrete; something I can latch onto. It is full of warmth and... and love?
'Hold on to me; I won't let you fall... I won't let you go...'
I feel him take me into his arms, finding bliss in this simple state, mind to mind, soul to soul, heart to heart. I am lifted from the blood, the pain, the anguish; all the darkness and ice of evil melt away at his warm touch.
His soul pulsates with light and life, smothering me with a satisfaction I have never known before, 'Hisoka... I love you; I need you. Please... don't leave me here alone...'
Like a plant left out of the sun for too long, I soak in his love, his care. And suddenly, with that calm clarity that only a near death experience can bring, I realize something.
'Tsuzuki... I love you too...'
His happiness washes over me, as intoxicating as any wine, his voice both soothing and commanding, 'Then come back to me... let this girl finally find peace. Let her die within you, and come back to the light!'
I blink my eyes. My EYES! This simple fact, along with the lack of pain and blood, assure me that I am again in the world to which I belong. And the first sight to greet me is the purest smile I have ever seen grace my partner's face, "Welcome back..."
I give a shy smile of my own, burying my head into his shoulder, realizing that he is holding me close to his chest. Strangely... I don't care. All of the nervousness and fear I usually experience when sharing another's thoughts and emotions have vanished. I feel... bonded with him. He has become a part of my heart, a part of my very soul.
Only once before have we ever melded so completely, when he had to use my body to direct a spell against Muraki. And even that experience paled in comparison to this. For the first time in my life, I feel whole. Imagine a blind man who has gained his sight, or a mute who can suddenly speak. I feel so alive, so rich in spirit!
Hearing someone kneel on the ground, I look away from Tsuzuki, seeing Watari's relieved smile, "Hisoka, thank goodness! You gave us quite a scare there!"
Nodding, I slide reluctantly, so reluctantly out of my love's strong embrace, once again donning my mask of emotionless serenity, "Forgive me, Watari. I am merely thankful that one of you was able to break me free in time. I nearly lost my life, as surely as the victim did."
Even as I speak the words, I feel a mental stab, a feeling of deep disappointment, 'Once again... he's so cold, so serious...'
Shocked, I feel my eyes widen, and once again I direct my energy towards my partner, 'Tsuzuki? Can you hear me?'
Surprise ripples through my mind, waves full of static, and his disbelief is apparent, even in mind to mind communication, 'HISOKA?! But how? I'm... I'm not touching you!'
'I don't know! Hold on...' I search my mind, and there I find it. A shimmering, golden link, one I can feel quite strongly. I touch it, and I hear Tsuzuki's mental gasp. Sheepishly, I admit to him, 'I... I think we've become permanently bonded...'
'... you mean I'm never going to be able to keep myself out of your mind again?'
'Well, I'm sure there IS a way for us to control it. Given time, I am also sure that we will find it,' I reply, raising my mental shielding as much as I possible can. It does not help very much, as I can still sense all of his emotions and even some of his louder thoughts, but it is better than nothing.
Life has certainly turned a bit more interesting...
//Watari\\
There are no words to describe the relief I feel as I see Hisoka returning to his normal self, nor the incredible sweetness of seeing he and Tsuzuki together. Alas, there is also a twang of bitterness, and I am too honest with myself to deny it. To know that they have learned their emotions for each other, or at least admitted it to themselves, from this experience, and to know that it was my urging that caused it... how perfectly ironic. Me, the emotionally inexperienced, the loveless. It is a strangely humorous thing.
As they separate, I see both of them gaze at each other with a startled expression, and for a moment I fear something has gone terribly wrong. To match my anxiety, 003 gives a small screech, but I soothe him with a quick stroke of the head, "What is it?"
Tsuzuki looks at me first, his face flushed with confusion and aggravation, "It's Hisoka... he's in my head, and I can't get him out!"
Of all the things he could have possibly said, I must admit this one probably takes me the most by surprise. My eyes widen ever so slightly, and I hear myself blurting out, like a fool, "What?"
Hisoka's emerald eyes pierce my soul with their coldness as he speaks, "Apparently when he entered my mind to save me from death, Tsuzuki bonded with me some how. It is a new, thin bond now; I'm sure someone with the right powers could snap it."
A scientist's intrigue overtakes me, and I begin to question him, "What sort of a bond is it? Do you think you could break it yourself?"
"I can hear his thoughts, feel his emotions," the boy states, showing none of the signs of anxiety his partner does. "No... I do not think I could break this bond myself. I am not sure I would even want to. I do not know what caused this to happen, but perhaps it will become useful in the long run."
Tsuzuki gives a cry, clearly flabbergasted, "USEFUL?! How on earth could this be USEFUL?!"
Seeing Hisoka's mouth set in a grim line, I can imagine the sting of his words, normally poisonous, turning even more toxic as Tsuzuki could feel the emotion behind them. Quickly I speak up, "I can think of several. For one thing, you will always know how to locate one another, even over long distances. You can communicate silently when faced with an enemy and plan strategy with it. Do you not think that is an advantage?"
He opens his mouth to speak, but shuts it again abruptly, actually considering what I have said. I will not say this surprises me too much; Tsuzuki is, for all of his childish acting, very serious about his job. However, I can never stop the chill that runs down my spine whenever I see that cold, calculating look overtake his normally warm violet eyes, almost as though another mind has come and taken over the body of the friend I have known for so long.
Then, all at once, that icy presence vanishes, and he smiles, "Not to mention the most important thing of all!"
Hisoka's slender eyebrow raises, "Oh?"
"You can never hide anything from me again, and I can tease you whenever I want!"
"What?! Only YOU would think that the most important advantage!"
Once again they break off into their famous squabbling, and I smile as 003 nips my cheek playfully. It seems as though, despite the near death of Hisoka, everything is starting to take a turn for the best.
Even as I think the thoughts, I take a glance up to the sky. The light had been becoming dimmer and dimmer; I thought this meant the sun was setting. But, as I look up now, I see to my surprise that it is not so. Thick, black clouds are rolling in fast from the east, covering the golden sun from view. Gusts of wind begin to blow heavily, and I shudder, struggling to wrap my coat tighter about me.
The air becomes icy, and 003 hides himself within my jacket, trying to escape the winds that buffet against him. Hisoka and Tsuzuki also notice this sudden change, and together, the three of us face the wind, trying to determine where it is coming from.
The answer appears all too quickly, as a place not ten feet away from us becomes a swirling vortex of blue and silver light, and the gusts continue to grow in strength. The colors of the light vanish, replaced with pure white. The intensity is too much; I shield my eyes lest I become momentarily blind.
Even before the illumination passes, a deafening roar erupts from the vortex, a sound that causes my heart to plummet. Tsuzuki gives a muffled curse, and I can barely make out his shout above the sound, "DAMN IT! Someone's summoning a creature here!"
A creature? As soon as the light begins to fade, I remove my hand, determined to see just what it is we find ourselves up against.
I wish I had not done so. Although I have spent my afterlife in the research of demons of all kinds, nothing has truly prepared me for this sight. I recognize the creature quickly enough as an Oni, a demon and ogre mix. Its purplish flesh stretches tightly over its muscular frame, revealing every thick vein pulsating with life. Luminous yellow eyes gaze out from the misshapen face, and when it opens its mouth to cry again, I can clearly make out its sharp fangs.
And while none of this comes as any real surprise to the logical part of my mind, another part is in sheer terror of this grotesque being. 003 shudders from within the safety of my coat, and I see Tsuzuki and Hisoka preparing to attack. But it is I, the powerless buffoon, who remains the closest to this monstrosity.
The Oni scans them both, then turns his eyes back to me. My heart begins to beat rapidly, and before I can even think to react, I hear my own screams in my ears. Pain lances through my body as the beast's claws slice open my chest, and I give another yell as the force of the blow sends me flying, hitting a nearby wall.
"WATARI!"
I only dimly make out the sound of my own name, and as I open my eyes slowly, I see that my wounds have caused a great pool of blood to form around me. I seem to bathed in the warm, slick muck, and my skin crawls in revulsion. I feel 003 struggling to escape his hiding place, and though it takes far too much effort, I release my feathered companion. He immediately lets out a hoot of distress, his eyes wider than ever, glowing with his strangely human concern, and he gently nestles against my face, apparently unconcerned with the preening his feather will require to remove the blood later.
I know these wounds will heal quickly, although they are painful, and I yearn to comfort him, but I cannot find the words for it. As I stare helplessly out at the battle, it is obvious that Tsuzuki and Hisoka are in need of aid. The Oni attacks too fast for them to have the time they require to summon a creature of their own; it is only a matter of time before the beast destroys them.
And what can I do? Nothing, absolutely nothing! Once more I am forced to bear witness as my friends struggle for their lives, once more I have been reduced to a helpless state! Rage overtakes my heart then, and it is in this moment of pure, cold fury that I am struck with genius. I can provide a distraction for the two of them, giving them the chance they need to summon something to protect them. Even if I can do nothing else, I can perform this simple task.
I detach myself from my body, away from the pain I should be feeling, away from the fear. My mind has already formulated the plan; all I must do now is carry it out. No time for human timidity now; no time to fall prey to panic and doubt!
I yank the orange bow from my head, ignoring the feel of my long hair freely floating in the wind, and I dip the fabric into my own blood. Soundlessly I begin to create a picture on the wall, allowing the fresh liquid to act as the reddest of paints. What does it matter now if it looks the art of a child? Size... size is what matters. Something large enough to distract the Oni, something large enough to put up a fight until it could be destroyed along with the beast it was fighting.
Frantically, feverishly, I paint the creature. I hear nothing from the battlefield; I hear nothing from anywhere. I see nothing but that which lies ahead of me. I feel nothing; I think of nothing. Nothing but this picture matters.
Adding the final touches, I slip out of my self-incurred working state. I realize that, although the wounds are already almost healed, I have lost a great deal of blood. I feel light-headed, dizzy, and as I dab the irises in the non-seeing eyes, I feel my own vision blur. Sinking to my knees, with 003 flying about in a state of panic, I think only one thought, directing it with all my strength and will before the blackness clawing at my consciousness overtakes me.
'LIVE!'
//Tsuzuki\\
"WATARI!"
Even as I scream my friend's name, I see his body sink to the ground. I witness the pool of blood form around him, crimson tendrils spreading out, growing every moment. Although I know he cannot die, that does nothing to soothe me. Rich, cold anger gnaws at my insides, and with a snarl I turn to face the attacker.
Strangely, the monster seems to have no interest in me. He studies me closely for a time with his glowing saffron eyes, and then he turns to Hisoka, giving him the same scrutiny.
Almost immediately he lashes out, and my partner is barely able to dodge the blow. I rush towards him, helping him avoid yet another attack.
As I stand in front of Hisoka, the beast seems confused, almost as though he is debating something. A clawed hand snatches me by the coat, and I feel myself lifted off my feet and tossed aside.
Compared to the force with which Watari had been attacked, this is amazingly gentle, and I hardly feel any pain as I hit the ground. These actions puzzle me, but I am back on my feet in an instant as Hisoka cries out, those claws that only just released me digging themselves into his flesh.
I feel the still new experience of sending thoughts through our link, as his message comes through, words tinged with pain, 'Stay back! You have to summon a guardian to defeat him!'
'But... you're hurt!'
Quicksilver laughter through our bond, a sound I truly marvel at. Hisoka never laughs... 'Tsuzuki, for whatever reason, you have some sort of protection against this demon; you are the only one he has not attacked! You must do this, because Watari and I cannot!'
I know that this is logical and true, but the very core of my being rejects it. How can I stand by, while this demon attacks my love and my dear friend?
Hearing 003's panicky cries, I glance to check on Watari out of the corner of my eye, and I give a gasp. The wounded scientist is on his feet, despite his injuries, but it is his actions that cause me to nearly cry out.
He appears to be intently producing a picture, using his own blood as the medium. I watch, fascinated, as he completes his task, falling back to the ground.
'Tsuzuki... he's trying to make that picture come alive!'
Hisoka's words come as no surprise to me; I had forgotten that he has never seen Watari's power before. He has simply not been a shinigami long enough, I suppose.
Yet, as I think about it, I cannot remember a time that I have ever seen the scientist USE his power. I have always known what it was, of course; it was never kept a secret from me. As I peruse my memories, I recall several instances of his genius with machinery, computer research, small medicine... but never once the use of his power.
'Well... I'm seeing it now...'
How to truly describe such a sight? Perhaps in some childhood fantasy I dreamed of a painting coming to life; I'm sure everyone has. We see pictures so realistic that it seems a soul is merely trapped on canvas, a human or thing waiting to be plucked. But to actually SEE it happen is something entirely different.
When the picture created in Watari's blood raises its arms, when its legs move, and you realize that this moving, seemingly alive thing was only moments before a grotesque graffiti, it is completely awe inspiring. I stand, quite stupidly, gawking at it.
The drawing is that of a giant beast, one large enough to stand up against the demon we face. Even as they begin to grapple, I continue to watch, this mystifying meeting of Titans.
'Tsuzuki... wake up! Now is the perfect time to perform a summoning; do not waste the distraction Watari has given us!'
Hisoka's mental lash is enough to shake me from my mindless stare, and I nod, preparing the spell I have used so many times in the past.
"Humbly do I present..."
Close my eyes, ignore the sounds of battle around me. Concentrate on the task; do not become distracted.
"My wish to those twelve that grant me divine protection..."
Forget about Watari, slowly healing. Forget about Hisoka, powerless to do anything. Forget what could happen to the two of them in the time it takes to cast this...
An agonized scream fills the air; I feel the pain channeling through me. But it does not matter now...
"I command you to appear before me!! SUZAKU!"
//Muraki\\
From my vantage point, I smile softly to myself. Things certainly have not gone according to plan...
I realize now that it was a mistake to summon the Oni. While obedient and thorough, I often forget that they have a terrible tendency to become distracted by things in battle.
It is of no great surprise or consequence that the beast is defeated. It is the way in which it was done that so intrigues me...
I do not make reference to my love's summoning of the phoenix, Suzaku. This truly magnificent sight I have seen before, though it is always a joy to witness it once again. Those splendid flames suddenly appearing, basking my Tsuzuki's face in a warm, orange glow, and the great bird itself, feathers formed of fire, an inferno incarnate as it mercilessly destroys both my Oni and the strange beast that had been designed to serve as a distraction are a sight I shall never forget.
A strange beast indeed, especially in its creation. For years I have known of the mystic properties assigned to blood; I know I am consumed its strangely magnetic allure. Every religion on earth finds power in this simple bodily liquid; everyone values it beyond all reason. It is the most precious tribute to the gods; it is that which it is forbidden for mere mortals to spill, to taste, to desire without expecting
Yet, even knowing all of this, nothing truly prepared me for the sight I witnessed. The sight of blood coming to life...
I had not been particular pleased when the Oni had gone after the man named Watari instead of the boy I despise so much, but I am forced to admit it was the logical course of action. I had ordered him to destroy them both; the scientist was the closest target.
Of course, his failure to actually hit the boy himself I noted with disgust. Then again, with Tsuzuki, my beloved, immune to attack, I should have realized he would have a puppy loyal bodyguard to protect him at every turn. The mere thought of it makes me sneer in distaste.
Yet, it seems all has not been lost. As I watched the pitiful battle, I noticed movement out of the corner of my eye. I cannot adequately express my surprise at seeing the injured scientist stumble to his feet, beginning to form a picture with his own blood or my even greater astonishment at witnessing it come to life.
Elation filled my heart, a triumph that has not yet faded. With this blood, I can bring life to Saki. The power will flow through him, allowing him to become revived, even if it is only for a mere few moments. Those precious moments will be enough for me to destroy him myself, riding this plane of his existence once and for all.
Yet, the best part of all is that none of this will involve my precious doll, Tsuzuki. I can have my revenge on my bastard brother, but I can also allow myself to fully savor my experiences with Tsuzuki. With Saki out of the way, it would be only a matter of time before I was able to taste my love to the fullest. The mere thought causes me to smile.
Scanning the now desolate battle field, I am hardly surprised to see Tsuzuki rush to his partner's side instead of the more injured Watari. I know, perhaps better than anyone, that a consuming love can force you to ignore your sense of logic. However, unlike me, I know he will regret this action later, regarding it as selfish. Which, of course, it is, so at the very least he is not tormenting himself for nothing.
Quietly, as not to attract attention, I slide from my place, making my way over to the still bleeding scientist. In the darkness that now comes from the lateness of hour and not my summoning spell, the moonlight causes his flesh, naturally pale from the loss of blood to become even paler and the spilt blood to take on a silver sheen. He appears the very essence of Death, yet the steady rise and fall of his chest shows all to clearly his life...
To look at him forces me to recall the words of Bram Stoker's Dracula, and as I kneel beside him, I cannot help but whisper them aloud, "'The blood is the life...' Indeed, in you it seems to be true..."
Is it my imagination or does he truly shiver at the sound of my voice? No... truly impossible; he is completely unconscious. I reach out to brush aside some of his hair, attempting to gain a closer look at his face.
Instead, I feel a sharp pain in my fingers, and I look down to see that a tiny owl has buried his beak into my flesh. My other hand strikes with the speed of a snake, catching him by the neck. He gives a slight screech of pain, but it is not very loud, since I quickly cut off most of his air supply, leaving him only enough to breath.
I recognize the bird as the constant companion of the injured scientist, and I laugh, addressing it as it tries to free itself, the sharp beak opening and closing soundlessly, "Admirable, really. Perhaps I should break your neck and end it quickly for you..."
Ah, intoxicating fear rising in those naturally wide eyes. My smile widening, I tighten my hand slowly, so slowly, cutting of the airflow bit by bit...
"N-no..."
The soft moan catches my attention, and I turn to see half-open golden eyes staring at me, every bit as fascinating as the pain filled ones of my feathered victim. The wounded man licks his lips slowly, speaking again after a few moments of labored breathing, "Don't... kill... him..."
I cease to strangle the owl, looking more intently at him. Even as he struggles to remain conscious, I can see the fear in his eyes, a concern meant purely for his bird. Chuckling, I lean to speak into his ear, "So much love for such a small thing? You are even worse than Tsuzuki..."
His only response is his rasping breaths, but as I reach to touch his long, yellow hair, he visibly shudders. As always, the knowledge of my own power over my prey fills me with pleasure and satisfaction. It seems so easy just to take him now, spirit him away and obtain his life-giving blood.
"MURAKI!"
I slide my eyes in the direction from which my name is called, my smile merely deepening at the sight of my Tsuzuki standing angrily to the side, his hands clutched into fists. The cold, green eyes of his child partner greet me also, but ignore them, "Hello, Tsuzuki. And here I am, thinking that this was going to be easy..."
Delicious anger rising in his jewel-like eyes as he speaks his next words, "What was going to be easy? What are you planning now?"
"Now, I cannot very well tell you that. It would make the game far less interesting, would it not?" I know this answer will only infuriate him more, and I smirk, turning back to the owl still captured in my hand. Removing the other from its position in Watari's hair, I carefully grasp a flailing wing and break it.
Whether it is the sound of the snapping bone or the pain-filled cry of the bird that forces the scientist's eyes open I do not know, but the horror and agony I read there are worth more than gold. Tossing the animal aside, I whisper once more in his ear, "I shall return for you..."
Without waiting for any form of response, I rise to my feet. I know blood stains my once immaculate white garments, but it is not the first time it has happened, nor will it be the last. I give a slight bow to my beloved, "I am sorry I cannot stay longer, Tsuzuki, but I fear that if I do you will cease to remain in that perfectly lovely, motionless state and attempt to detain me. This, of course, I cannot allow."
He flies at me, attempting to strike me with his fist, but I catch it and merely pull him to me, "I am surprised you would attempt something so inelegant and useless, Tsuzuki; you allow your emotions to cloud your better judgment. So it is that, every time, I catch you and bring you a little bit closer to me, and one day... one day I simply will not wish to let you go."
His response is a snarl, "It will be a cold day in Hell before that happens, I can assure you..."
Planting a soft kiss on his forehead before I push him into his partner, I nod, "I can wait that long for you, Tsuzuki. If I have anything, it is a wealth of patience."
Without giving them time to recover, I vanish, traveling the same path from which I came. I consider briefly traveling to the storage unit that holds Saki, but I decide against it. There is no need for me to gloat just this instant.
No... I believe I shall gloat when I am certain he can hear it, right before I end his miserable life. I make my way towards my home instead, for now new preparations must be made.
After all, if I am to have a guest, I cannot appear to be shabby host, can I?