Chapter 13: Dilemma X Couple X Our Birthday
"Huh? Hisoka already give you his consent to fight?!" Killua shouts out in surprise, the moment Gon tell them the news.
Kallua slightly sweatdrops "Well, Hisoka did say that all you need is a one win then he permits you to fight him" Hearing that, Karuze lets out a sigh as he turns his head at Kallua.
Karuze gave a disapproving look "But Gon win 2 matches!"
Kallua is now sweatdropping as he looks at Karuze "Well, Hisoka might being considerate as he wants her to focus on those matches first"
"Against Hisoka.. It would be tough" Killua folded his hands and look at Gon in disapproving look "You need more training!"
Gon only rub her head with sheepish smile
"It should be fine for you guys to move on the next stage" Kallua said suddenly, alerting the two.
"Next stage?" Both Gon and Killua said at the same time.
Karuze nodded "Yup, Wing be sure to let you guys know. We will cover that subject"
"Oh right" Kallua raise his hand "Both of you may go on ahead. I have something I need to discuss with Gon" Kallua said as he grab Gon's arm and pull her aside "We'll catch up soon!"
"Wha!? Where are you two going!?" Killua said in panic and was about to chase after them but Karuze whom getting the hint, pull Kilua all the way to the Wing Residence and only protest all the way but reaching Karuze's deaf ears.
In some alley, Kallua let go of his grip which made Gon confused on why, did Kallua drag her all the way here?
"Sorry for the sudden invitation. It won't take long, I promise" Kallua said as he rubs the back of his head which made Gon tilt her head in confusion.
"I don't mind but what is it that you want to discuss with me?" Gon asked, not knowing what Kallua wants to tell her.
"Well, to tell you the truth, Killua's birthday is coming soon" Kallua said which made Gon gasp before smiles.
"Really?" Gon asked in surprise before frowning "But Killua said that his birthday is 9th June"
" 7th July" Kallua answered before shook his head " And Killua is lying towards Wing and you so that both of you won't be suspicious for his sudden wish to fight" Kallua then gives a long look at Gon I'm sure you are busy with Hisoka but I think you should at least wish him a happy birthday"
Gon blinked then takes a look at the wrist where the bracelet Killua gives her is there. She looks at it for a moment before look determined.
"Not good enough. I will find a present for Killua, he gave me a present too" Gon gives Kallua a smile, "Thanks for telling me about it, Kallua"
Kallua nodded " Not a problem, he is special to you after all. Also If you need a help in choosing a present for him, you can ask me if you want. I'll make sure to help as much as I can" Kallua said as he smiles.
"I'll be counting on you then!" Gon said cheerfully as they are now setting the date to look for a present for Killua.
Few moments later, both Kallua and Gon finally arrives with Kallua getting glares from Killua, demanding what did he tells Gon but all Kallua did was giving a slight smile, causing Killua's anger to vanish. After all, there are lots of times that Kallua's smile reminds him of Gon.
Wing then decided to start the teaching as everyone has arrived "Today, we will finally begin to train in Hatsu. Once you master Hatsu, you will have learned the basic Nen principles. After that, you will need to work on developing your individual Nen style"
"Osu!" Gon, Zushi and Killua said at the same time.
"Hatsu is a technique by which you control your Nen. It is the culmination of Nen, and there are six distinct categories" Wing said as he had Kallua write the categories on the board" Enhancer are able to strengthen objects. Emitters can propel their aura. Transmuters can alter their aura's qualities. Conjurers are able to manifest their aura. Manipulators can use their aura to control objects and creatures. Specialists are those with a special aura that doesn't fall within the other five classes"
Kallua said "The key is to find the power that suits you"
"The power that suits you?" Gon asked, not understanding.
Kallua nodded" Nen is linked to individual ability, with two areas of particular prominence. The first would be your natural potential. The second would be potential refined later in life"
"Like Gon-kun, for example" Wing piped in "was born with a flexible, springy body. Her acute senses were the product of a childhood spent in nature. From the moment of your birth, your Nen aura falls within one of the six categories. While rare, it is possible for your Nen aura to later change types"
Kallua then goes to the board and draws the hexagon illustration "If you attempt to learn an ability that does not fit your inclination, you will find it very difficult"
Wing looks at the board and nodded as he place his hand on the board "This hexagon depicts the relationship among the six categories. The closer a class is to your own, the higher your compatibility to learn it. If you are born with an aura of the Enhancer category, you will find Enhancer abilities easiest to learn and master. And the adjacent Transmuter and Emitter classes will also be easy to learn. On the other hand, the Specialist class, which is furthest away, would be difficult"
Kallua face Killua, Gon and Zushi "To illustrate, we'll use skills that you've seen for yourselves. Hisoka was able to change his aura into a rubbery substance. This would be a Transmuter ability. Gido used his tops and body as weapons by making them spin faster, which would be an Enhancer power. However, since using so many tops as weapons also requires Manipulator skill, he wasn't as successful. As for Kastro, his Tiger Bite was incredibly strong. Had he mastered it, he would have been among the strongest Nen users. I believe that his aura fell into the Enhancer class. However, he focused his energy on the power to create a double, which is a Conjurer skill. And he also required a Manipulator ability to control the double. Both of those are relatively far from the Enhancer category"
"So neither was compatible with an Enhancer type?" Gon asked.
Kallua nodded "Indeed, it requires a great deal of work and natural talent to learn an incompatible ability. And as a result, he squandered most of his Nen potential"
"So he made the wrong choice" Killua stated with uncertain look.
Zushi look down "He was a great fighter… It's a shame.."
"Well?" Wing asked "Do you see the importance of understanding your own auras and inclinations?"
"Osu!" Both Gon and Zushi said it together.
"Given that.." Killua said suddenly "Is there any way to learn which category your aura falls into?"
Wing nodded as he gives a closed eyes smile "There is"
A glass filled with water and a leaf on the center was then placed on the table.
"Water Divination, a Shingen-ryu technique for classifying your aura" Wing said "It's also used in Hatsu training"
"You place your hands beside the cup, and use Ren. The result will reveal your category" Kallua said as he look at the glass which then Wing volunteer to try first.
As Wing uses his Ren with his hands beside the cup, Killua, Zushi and Gon staring intently as slowly, the water's starting to overflowing which then made Kallua takes out a cloth to wipe it.
"If the water volume changer, that means you are an Enhancer" Wing explained "This shows that my aura falls within the Enhancer class.
The three look impressed as Wing turned to look at Kallua and Karuze.
"How about the two of you show them your category?" Wing asked in which the group of the three look in awe.
Karuze smirked as he looks at Kallua "Alright Host, you go first"
Kallua shrug as he place his hand beside the cup and letting out his Ren while the three including Wing also staring intently at it.
The leaf started to move quickly around the glass before then it dived inside the water and circling around in a fast pace, creating a whirlpool. Afterwards, it resurfaced with a light splash then the leaf stay in the original position with the water had slightly calmed down and constantly tilting the leaf like a ship on raging sea movement.
Wing seems flabbergasted while the three gasp in awe.
"The leaf moves, this shows that my aura category is Manipulator" Kallua said which made the three nodded in understanding.
Wing stood still, unable to believe at how much mastery Kallua has on his aura. When it was Karuze's turn, Wing looks intently once more.
Karuze did the same thing but the three only look questioningly as nothing happened.
"Hm? Nothings change?" Gon asked as she tilts her head.
"Is something wrong, Osu?" Zushi asked.
"Did you really let out your Ren?"Killua ask in doubt tone.
Karuze gives them a light glare "That is not the issue, I want you guys to try out the water"
"Try it?" Killua asked before then tasting the water a bit, followed by Zushi and Gon.
"Hm? It tastes… I don't know" Zushi seems confused.
"It feels familiar but I couldn't put my finger on it" Killua said as he tries to remember
Kallua blink in confusion, wasn't the water supposed to be extremely sweet?
"Eh? This feels like wine" Gon said as she remembers the taste.
"Huh?" Kallua dip his finger inside the water then taste it, his eyes widen in surprise and anger.
"Karuze! You are supposed to make the water tastes sweet like juice or soda, not making it taste like wine! We are all underage here! We are not supposed to drink!" Kallua exclaims, unable to believe that Karuze just made them drink wine when they are underage. Kallua know about alcohol from being a school president that made him aware of the rules of no alcohol even forcing him to taste it (he ends up spitting it out afterward) so he would recognize the taste and lately, his classmates had to be sneaking them to school which he always loathe when it happened.
Wing seems startled, unable to believe that Karuze can do that.
"Sheesh! It was a joke, Host" Karuze gives a grin as he start over "There, it was my juice masterpiece now!"
Hastily, Gon, Killua, Kallua and Zushi take another taste. This time it is indeed taste like juice but it was much more refreshing and delicious taste.
"Alright, the taste of water changes means my aura category is a Transmuter" Karuze gives a smirk as he put both of his hands on his hips.
"Right, lets change the water for now" Kallua said as he took the glass of the transmutation water and coming back with a new one.
Wing regains his composure the moment Kallua comes back" Alright, I believe it was your turn now to try"
Gon started first, when she lets out her Ren, it was shown the water volume increases thus making her an Enhancer.
Zushi the next one, when he tries out, the leaf moves slightly tilting around, thus making him a Manipulator.
Killua was the last one, when nothing happened, they all took the taste of the water, taste a bit sweet thus made him fall into a Transmuter category.
Karuze narrowed his eyes in confusion "How come all six of us having the same category each?
Kallua sigh "It's only six categories exist in Nen so it will not be a surprise to find another person with the same Nen category" Kallua's statement made all of them agreeing inside.
"Now you three know how your aura's are classified. Use the next four weeks to train hard, so the Water Divination results become more pronounced." Wing said, ending his teaching.
"Osu!" The three of them said in understanding manner
Day by Day, Zushi, Gon and Killua had been practicing hard with Water Divination. They may keep practicing everyday but taking a break is also necessary which is why all of them are still hang out together, with Kallua and Karuze plus Fraze sometimes whom are getting excited on Kallua's upcoming match with him when Gon and Hisoka had made the date.
"Ahh, July 11th. Please come soon~" Fraze keeps having ecstatic face as his aura leaking out. July 11th is the date when Kallua and Fraze are fighting, the day after Hisoka and Gon's match. Even their match tickets already sold out despite the match is still one month few days away. The same could be said for Hisoka against Gon though.
It was on July 5th, Gon is now up early to meet Kallua whom waiting for her in front of the fountain.
Gon smiled cheerfully as she sees Kallua standing in front of the fountain, looking aloof as he is wearing his cap along with his hood "Kallua, sorry for the wait. Did you wait long?" Gon called out loudly with a smile, slightly apologetic for being late from their promised time.
Almost immediately, whispers heard from the surroundings with some girls looking excited. Gon seems confused until then Kallua instantly took Gon's hand and drag her further away from the crowd that starting to recognize him and chasing him.
"W-Wha, Kallu-"
" Sorry, for now we have to lose this crowd!" Kallua instantly cut Gon off as he drags her to alley and goes zipping through some sharp turns.
Several sharp turns later, Kallua is relieved that they had lost the crowds.
"Geez, they sure are persistent, it's good that we finally lost them" Kallua said as he slightly click his tongue.
Gon looks troubled "Sorry, it's because I'm late and I suddenly calling you out"
Kallua shook his head and slightly smiles as he shook his head, saying that he just got there and she did nothing wrong.
Liar, you had been waiting in there for 1 hour! And I can tell that you are troubled but you didn't want to blame your mother for anything!
Kallua slightly crunch his eyebrows when he receives telepathy from Karuze. Kallua had been asking Karuze to training Killua with the plus of keeping eye on him since he didn't want his father to get any weird ideas of him together with Gon.
`Whatever, so how's Papa right now?' Kallua thought telepathically as he hopes that Killua is not nearby.
Karuze snorted telepathically `He's meditating, looks like he is in some kind of conflict, his aura is in disarray'
Kallua silently gulped, was his father knew that he is hanging out with his mother?! Even in future, it's been a long time for him to hang out with each of his parents or even both of them.
"Kallua?" Gon called out suddenly, alerting Kallua "Is something the matter? Are you unwell perhaps?"
"N-Nothing" Kallua slightly stutters as he looks at Gon "Well, we should hurry up to find what would Killua like for a present"
Gon nodded with smiles as she thought of getting present for Killua, it was then she was surprised at something being placed on her head.
Now she just realized that it was Kallua's cap.
"You should wear that or people would crowding us again" Kallua said as he is now fixing his hood and avert his eyes slightly from Gon whom is fixing the cap as he looks troubled `Given that commentator stirring weird gossip of me and my mother, it would be worse if people sees us together. Papa would be hurt more if there's another gossip.'
"Alright, we are done. Let's go!" Gon said quickly in excited tone as she grabs Kallua's hand and dragging him to look around.
Gon eyes shine at lots of things around but she had no idea on what she should have given Killua.
"Umm~" Gon is now placing her index finger near her lips "I wonder what Killua really likes"
"He likes sweets, especially chocorobo-kun" Kallua piped in "But recently the shops didn't have any stock left since he always orders them" Kallua lets out a light laugh as he remembers how his father loves sweets "That doesn't change at all, especially when I make chocorobo-kun flavored pudding, he always finish them all~"
Gon tilt her head in slight surprise, was that means he knows Killua a lot? Somehow Gon could tell Kallua and Killua are estranged yet at the same time, really close with each other even though Killua didn't know about Kallua back during Hunter Exam. Now that she thought about it, she didn't ask Kallua about his relationship with Killua's family. Even she is hesitant to ask about his brother, Karuze that is in Hunter exam, but she only sees him in person when they are in Heavens Arena.
"You can bake him a birthday cake for him. For sure, he would eat it all instead of sharing it" A slight smile is now gracing Kallua's lips. "Killua likes games too, but his face looks funny when I beat him" Kallua tries holding back a laugh as he remembers how much his father would keep asking for more rematch against him.
Despite his face is covered with his hood, Gon could tell that Kallua had smiles all over his face along with his light, merry tone when he talks about Killua. Gon can't help but smiles as well, seeing how much close they were.
They are almost like a pair of brothers or twins, perhaps?
"Hey Gon, what do you think?" Kallua asked suddenly, this time pulling Gon out of her thoughts.
"Huh?" Gon suddenly look at Kallua "Ye- Yeah, I think its good about the cake. I-I never make a cake before though but the cake that you made when it's my birthday, it's really good" Gon said with a smile, remembering the sweet and delicious taste.
"I can teach you" Kallua said with a nod "Killua prefers chocolate but you can add strawberry for the topping as well. I can help you shopping for the ingredients too"
Gon gives a smile of gratitude towards Kallua before looking around the shops. She is still slightly feeling down for unable to find a good present.
"How about a present that you both could enjoy?" Kallua said his opinion "It would make the birthday present more memorable"
Gon seems to get an inspiration of that. She lets out a huge smile, she finally knew what to give Killua for his birthday.
"Thanks a lot Kallua~" Gon immediately hug Kallua whom blushes instantly, luckily he is wearing his hood or else, people would see him blushing "Now I know what to give Killua"
Kallua didn't know what his mother had in her mind for a gift but at least he is happy that he helped.
"But, sorry Kallua. Is it fine if I buy it myself?" Gon said as she clasped both of her hands together, looking apologetic at Kallua.
Kallua instantly pats Gon's head as he lets out a smile secretly "It's fine. I'm just glad that you have found a present for Killua. That is good to know"
Gon could feel herself getting warm as she is getting a pat at the head from Kallua. It seems nice, though she never expect it.
When Kallua realizes what he just did, he instantly pulls his hand back. What was he thinking of patting his mother's head!? His patting was a habit he did towards Killia so he never thought he unconsciously did that for his mother at this time.
`What have I done!? I unconsciously was patting her head like siblings would! How could I just done that!?' was all Kallua's thought repeating in his head as he went silent.
"Kallua?" Gon called out, with her blushing a bit. Seeing her mother like that made Kallua blush a little as well.
"Um, ah" Kallua was at loss of words before clear his throat and spoke "Sorry, I didn't know what just came over me" Now he was rubbing back of his head awkwardly.
Gon begins to fiddle around with her fingers "well.. uh, I.. I don't mind"
"Eh? It's.. fine?" Kallua said out in awkward tone, never in his life he thought about patting his mother's head but it had a familiar feeling of patting Killia's head.
Gon nodded in which Kallua took as a signal to pat Gon's head once more. This time Gon lean towards the touch, giggling as she enjoys it.
For an hour, it was spent wih Kallua petting Gon's whom just enjoy the feelings.
"Yosh~" Kallua felt they have spent a lot of time already so better do something or he would make Killua along with Karuze wait for a long time "Let's shopping for the cake ingredients so that you may practice"
Hearing that made Gon fired up as she raise her fist upwards "Ouuuh~"
And the people around them can only get shocked as Kallua carry over the ingredients that is triple amount compared from people usually buys. Kallua bought it with his money and carries them all of course, despite Gon's protest since she felt she had inconvenience Kallua a lot.
Either way, Kallua is patiently teaching Gon to make the cake. He was right to buy lots of ingredients as Gon keep making charcoal, burning the ingredients, splattering some things, mixing the wrong ingredients. Gon keep sighing in disappointment but Kallua always cheer her up. Kallua knows that his mother at this time could only cook fish (since she only need to make fire and figure the right timing for the finish) Kallua remembers that his mother told him that she used to be bad at cooking but keep learning for the sake of his father.
Afterwards, Gon had a beaming smile when she has finally able to bake a cake that is not charcoal looking. Kallua rewards her with a gentle pat before then having to direct her into decorating the cake and it goes…. messily.
It was finally the morning of the July 7th, the moment when Killua already woke up and was about to go to Gon's room when he opens the door and-
"SURPRISE!"
Deja-vu
Gon, Kallua, along with Fraze and Karuze shot through the door. Each holding a box of present with different sizes. Behind them, three trays filled with some foods and sweets are served. No doubt it was Kallua's cooking food.
"HAPPY BIRTHDAY, KILLUA!"
Now Killua widen his eyes, how on earth everyone knows?!
Gon grins "Our surprise attack is a success!"
"Happy birthday to you" Kallua said, smiling a bit.
Karuze grins "That's quite a good shock face you made"
Fraze smirked "Congrats on getting a year closer to death"
Fraze got Kallua's good kick on his stomach in reply of what Fraze just said.
Killua took a moment to recover, before then grin and laugh "Thanks guys" as he ignores Fraze's greetings.
"Too bad we can't invite Wing and Zushi, you did lie about your birthday after all" Kallua said and responded by Killua having sweatdrop.
It was then the birthday cake was taken in front of Killua by Gon. Somehow, the cake seems misshaped with the decoration quite messy. Even Killua slightly sweatdrops as he looks at Kallua whom is right behind Gon, thinking it surely is impossible for Kallua to do this mistake.
Kallua whom getting Killua's gaze, understand what he meant and scratch his cheek as he mouthed "Gon made that cake"
Killua is now blushing, unable to believe that this is the first time he is getting to eat Gon's handmade food. As everyone cheer after Killua blows out the candles and slicing the cake then eats it (doubtful but knowing that Gon was the one who made it, decided to be brave)
"How is it?" Gon look hopeful as she hopes the cooking lesson she got from Kallua has paid off.
Killua's mouth curved into a smile at the sweet taste "It's good, really good. Thanks Gon"
Gon smiles brighten more at that.
Fraze comes over at Killua and Gon's side "Can I have some too?"
Killua is now inwardly panic as he didn't want to share the cake that Gon made for him and only him.
Getting the hint, Kallua push the tray inside as he exclaims "Everyone, the food is here. I made lots of cake too"
Instantly Fraze goes to eats the food that Kallua made which made Killua heave a sigh of relief. Inwardly thanking Kallua for understanding him.
"Killua" Gon called out in low voice, making Killua turn to look at Gon "You have an icing on your cheek"
Before Killua could react to wipe the icing off, Gon already had done so, with her licking the icing off.
Killua is now blushing madly, speechless as he can't believe he just had Gon's soft tongue on his cheek a moment ago. On a closer look, Gon is blushing too which made Killua slightly avert his eyes and it was a coincidence that his eyes are meeting Kallua's and widen his eyes as Kallua is, blushing slightly as well.
`Darn it, he sees us' Killua tries not to curse in front of his best guy friend as Kallua tries to calm himself with slightly shook his head.
Kallua gave a look of `you-can –do-it! Confess-now! Everyone's-busy!' Killua take a look at Fraze and Karuze except Kallua whom are eating and not noticing them.
`Right! This is my chance!' Killua thought as he looks at Gon once more.
"Gon" Killua called out in hush, low voice, sounds sexier which made Gon blush more "I need to tell you something"
Killua knows his heart is thumping madly now as his face seems to be getting redder in each seconds passing by but he really didn't want to let this chance slips by.
`Do it! Do it! Do it! Do ittttttt!' Kallua thought in anxiety as he clenches his fist hard. His eyes keep watching them like a hawk and his eyes sending telepathic message of his thought when he looks at his father.
"I-I- I-" Killua stuttered, his heart felt like about to explode.
`Keep going! Just a bit more!' Kallua thought as now his eyes narrowed towards Killua.
"I-I-l.. lo.. lo..lov." Killua shut his eyes now, unable to look at Gon.
`You can do it! You are halfway there!' Kallua thought as he is now looking at them while everyone else, still eating without giving any second thought on the others. Killua took a deep breath with Kallua keep watching without stopping and-
"I LOVING THIS PARTY!" Killua instantly scream which alerted everyone in the room.
`ARGH! JUST A BIT MORE!' Kallua is close to explode now as he sees both of his parents now look restless. `If only Killia is here, she can help!'
"What's up?" Fraze asked as he finishes his fried chicken.
"…." Karuze goes silent, already had a feeling on what's going on. Thinking he too can't bear the tense atmosphere, he decided to help. After all, he can prove his host that he could be a great matchmaker.
"Well, it's time to presents, then" Karuze said as everyone immediately takes out their present and gives it to Killua. To clear his mind, Killua just opens the present.
Fraze and Karuze gives the same present, chocorobots which Killua smiles at that. Gon gives Killua another fishing rod so they could fish together in which Killua nodded to say thanks, still unable to look at her in the eyes.
Afterwards… Kallua's turn. Everyone else is having expectation look as he is the last one.
"I don't have it" was all Kallua's said.
"Huh?!" Killua asked in surprise manner at Kallua's laid-back answer.
"Like I said, I don't have it" Kallua scratch the back of his head "I guess I misplaced it, forgot to check before I came here"
Karuze gives doubting look, even though his host saying it in truth laced tone, he easily knows it was a lie as his host barely ever forgets something. Even forgetting his father's present is definitely 1 in 10 million chance for that to happen.
"So you lost it?" Gon asked, slightly worries.
Kallua shrugs "I misplace it, not lost it"
Killua narrowed his eyes "That's the same, wasn't it?"
"No, it's not" Kallua goes out but taking both Killua and Gon with him "I'll prove it to both you!"
Fraze seems slightly surprised "Is it fine to drag the birthday boy too?" Fraze asked.
Karuze only gives a knowing smile "It'll be fine"
"Ne Kallua, where are we going?" Gon asked as Kallua keeps dragging the two of them, far, far away from the Heavens Arena, ignoring some people pointing and whispering.
Kallua only inwardly smiles "You'll see"
It was then Kallua finally stop dragging the two of them, they now realized Kallua had brought them to the park but it was not crowded.
"Let's see, alright! It was that spot!" Kallua pointed out where there was a lake in the middle of the park
"What spot?" Gon asked
"Last time I go there with the present. It has to be over there somewhere" Kallua said.
"Really? What are we waiting for! We have to find it!" Gon, whom been believing Kallua's story begins to sprint fast to search for the present while Killua look at Kallua in suspicious manner.
"You're lying right? Why did you do this?" Killua said with narrowed eyes.
Kallua only gives Killua a slight chuckle "Oh come on, I give both of you time together now. Use this chance wisely"
Hearing that made Killua blushed, so Kallua doing this on purpose so that he and Gon are alone? He can't help but wanting to laugh at Kallua's way to give them time together.
"Geez, this is not my idea" Kallua slightly pouted which made Killua finally laugh at the face Kallua made "Karuze suggested this idea of present scheme"
At the mention of that name made Killua finally stifle his laughter, yeah Killua knew that it is quite impossible for Kallua to completely pull off this stunt alone.
"So you just goes with the plan?" Killua gives a smirk
Kallua shrugged "Something like that, though I'm the one who pinpoint the place" Kallua
"Go now, or Gon will return soon" A made Killua nodded and go after her.
Once Killua arrive, he sees Gon is now looking frantically.
"Geez, how come Kallua able to forget the present and we have to search for it, Kallua should be helping" Gon said as she search over the bushes and trees, sprinting around.
"Gon" Killua called out, successfully made Gon stop "Sorry about before"
"Huh?" Gon tilt her head "What is it, Killua?"
Killua gives a slight cough as he look at his surroundings. The park sure is a beautiful place, lake shining, birds are singing with the blooming flowers around and the slight breeze made this place look romantic.
`Damn! I never thought that Kallua is a romantic guy!' Killua thought as he not knowing how could Kallua able to pinpoint this place so fast for their confession place. He really had to do it now or Kallua's effort would go to drains.
"I- I'm sorry for before. What I'm trying to say is-"
Well, here goes nothing.
"I love you!" Killua instantly shout out loud, truly thankful that the spot they are only have the two of them.
"H-Huh? Love?" Gon seems confused as this is the first time someone ever told her that.
Killua seems flabbergasted at the lack of the emotion "Y-You don't love me!?"
"N-No, of course I love Killua" Gon said made Killua looks happy "And Kallua, Karuze, Kurapika, Leorio-" Okay, Killua's mood turn sour now..
"I see" Killua begins to mumble "You're just like Kallua"
Seeing Killua's uneasy face made Gon has the same look, especially in confusing manner for being placed in same category as Kallua "Is something the matter?"
Kallua whom is hiding nearby, feeling sorry as he too, did the same when Killua ask him about his feelings towards his mother. Being clueless and all…
"Gon" Killua called out as he look determined "I know you love everyone but.. with me, does it feels, special?"
Hearing that made Gon widen her eyes as her mind instantly reminds her on what Kallua said towards her.
"Not a problem. He is special to you after all"
`Was Kallua knows that, which is why he said Killua is special?' Gon thought deeper. She knows that Killua is her best, same age friend along with Kallua. But she befriends Killua first and quite closer to Killua than Kallua since she rarely been with Kallua together. There are times that she felt something, something she never felt with other people, only with Killua is when she ever has that feelings.
It was a warm and fuzzy feelings.
"I.. I do"
Now Killua looks hopeful as he stares at Gon
"I.. I feel different with you Killua. It's pleasant and.. No one ever gave me this kind of feelings but you" Gon stutters, feeling her face is burning. "It's weird but not bad in any other way" Now Gon is panicked as she relentlessly moving in the same spot.
Killua gives Gon his brightest smile before he tackled Gon into a hug. At that moment, Kallua felt he has watch enough, unknowingly for them, slips past by them and putting the present in Killua's pocket before leaving.
As Killua release himself, he felt a weigh on the back of his pants and took it out only to find a small box of beautiful blue wrapping with silver ribbon.
"This has to be Kallua's present" Killua said as he look around but can't find nor sense Kallua's presence anywhere.
"What is it?" Gon peered over, curious.
Killua unwrap the presents, open the box to reveal two heart shaped locket with each in raven and silver color with having his and Gon's photo each inside. Now Killua understood for this is a couple locket for him and Gon, guess this is Kallua's way of saying congratulations on both of them being together.
"That Kallua totally plans everything" Killua mumbled as he gives silver locket with his photo towards Gon while he kept another one in raven with Gon's photo inside. In his mind, he is amazed to see the photo truly professionally taken since it captured their smiles very well. Though Killua had no idea that Kallua takes this picture as he didn't feel Kallua's presence around.
Gon wears the locket with a smile "Guess we need to thank him later"
Killua gives a smile "I suppose" He goes closer towards Gon and then gives a short kiss her lips which made her widen her eyes in surprise.
When Killua pulled away, that's when Gon is now stuttering madly with cute adorning blush on her face "W-Wha-wha…"
Ignoring his face is the same color, Killua is now grabbing his girlfriend hand "Let's just go back. Kallua must be already back too"
Unable to say anything else, Gon merely nodded and follows.
After they finally arrived and back in Killua's room, whistles immediately heard then confetti started raining on them.
"Congrats for our new couple" Karuze said with grin.
"Yo! How further you guys have been?!" Fraze's comment made Killua's face turns scarlet.
"Quit it!" Kallua is now kicking Fraze back for his disrespect saying.
In seeing Kallua, Gon release himself from Killua and took a leftover present box that she hid. She goes towards Kallua and-
"This is for you, Kallua! Thank you and Happy birthday" Gon smiled cheerfully as she wish him birthday and thrust the present in front of him.
Killua is now stare in shock as Fraze and Karuze takes out another present box for Kallua.
"Huh?" Kallua stare at Gon in bewilderment, not knowing how his mother at this time able to know his birthady "How did you know?"
Gon lets out a slight giggle as she tells the reason.
*Flashbacks *
When the lesson ended, it was then Karuze decided to approach Gon and drag her away without anyone knowing.
"Hey" Karuze called out "When my host dragged you back then to discuss something" Karuze started to lower his voice "It's about Killua's birthday, right?"
Gon nodded "That's right, how did you know?"
Karuze shrugs "Well, host and I have quite a bond. There are times we understand each other perfectly"
"Hee~" Gon look at Karuze in wonder "You two must be a very close brothers"
Karuze slightly tap his forehead, almost forgot that his host introduce him to both of his parents as his brother.
"That aside" Karuze huffed "In Killua's birthday, there's also someone else's birthday"
"Really?" Gon aksed "Who?"
"My host" Karuze simply said "Kallua of course"
"Eh?" Gon seems to crunch her eyebrows in surprise "Killua and Kallua share the same birthday?!"
Karuze nodded
Gon tilt her head "Then.. why didn't Kallua say anything about it?"
`It was to make you able to spend time together with Killua of course!' Karuze thought silently in annoyance " Who knows?"
Gon then look back at Karuze in confusion "Why are you telling me?"
"Seriously?" Karuze gape in amazement "He deserves something from you, right? Given all the care and treatment he did to you"
Gon goes silent as she heard that. It's true that Kallua had do much to him for he always helps her and she wouldn't be able to fight Hisoka if it wasn't for Kallua. He did protect her from Gildo and always being a very good friend. it seems she really need to repay the favor for all he did.
Karuze shrugs at Gon's silent treatment
"Either way, I'll take my leave as what I want to say is already said. See ya" Karuze wave his hand at the end of his statement then leaves, leaving Gon wonder on what she should get for Killua and Kallua.
*Flashbacks ends*
"And that's what happened" Gon said which made Kallua narrowed his eyes at Karuze whom only whistling as he look other way.
"Happy birthday, Kallua" Fraze came over with a smile before whispers in low, seductive voice at Kallua's ear "Did you know that we can't age in here, so you are technically still twelve. What a shame, you would have graduate from being kids to be teens."
"HIIIIII~" Kallua immediately feel sick as every strand of his hairs stand up and he now walking backwards in fast motion towards the edge of the room.
"Wha? What's wrong, Kallua?!" Killua yelled in panic, seeing his guy best friend suddenly turn pale.
"Nothing~" Fraze said as he lick his lips with his eyes turned playful "Nothing at all~"
Killua is now having the same look Kallua have "This double Hisoka indeed capable of giving creeps just like the original" Killua mutters as he gives a look of pity at Kallua.
"Now, Now" Karuze tries to cheer his host up "Let's just open the present"
Kallua first look at the present from Gon and slightly tilt his head as the present had the same length with the present given for Killua. He then opens the present given by Gon only to see that Gon too, gives him a fishing rod.
Gon waves the fishing rod with a smile "With these, all three of us can fish together"
Killua is now having uncertain look while Kallua slightly scratch his cheek with forced smile before thanking Gon for the present.
Next is Karuze, Kallua gets a book that is a popular one and the one that he has been waiting for. Kallua thanks Karuze for that while Karuze only shrug in response. Kallua can tell that Karuze is happy by the shine in his eyes.
When it is Fraze's present turn, Kallua instantly pale which cause no surprise from the others. Kallua even debating himself whether he should open it or not.
"What's wrong?" Fraze gives a grin "My present is still waiting for you to opens it"
Kallua evaluate the presents, it was slightly heavy in normal term (it was super light for him) but there seems to be several items inside. The coating paper is thin so he could feel the objects are rectangular, hard shape with two holes on each object.
"Is this video tape?" Kallua said immediately, followed by smiling and nodding Fraze with Karuze is getting a bad feeling and goes near Kallua while both Killua and Gon surprised to see Kallua knew the present without opening.
"It was a very HOT video shows two guys" Fraze lets out a smirk "And it's extremely ero-"
CRASH!
The sound was from Karuze smash the present, Kallua look in slight surprise while Killua cover both of Gon's ears and sigh in relief, knowing Gon didn't hear anything dirty.
Karuze then march angrily towards Fraze and grab his collar.
"The hell!? Will you quit giving such useless present towards my host!? Imagine how many of those so called hot things you gave and I have to make sure that Killia get rid of it as well. Luckily my host didn't know about those present you gave in those 4 years ago such as con*BANG* did*BANG* co*BANG* and lastly Ap*BANG*"
"KYAAA KILLUA!"
"K-Killua! Calm yourself!"
Both Fraze and Karuze turn to see a crack at the wall, caused by Killua keep hitting it with a table for the sake of censoring. Luckily both Gon and Kallua attention are drifted towards Killua so they didn't hear Karuze's talk and their innocence is still maintained.
"Ah~ It would be fun if Kallua and Gon hears it" Fraze grins which lit Killua and Karuze's anger.
"HELL IT IS!" Both of them shouted at the same time with Fraze chuckling and Gon with Kallua only get confused.
It was then the party's over. Afterwards, the others help with doing hours of cleaning with repairing (they called the staff to fix the crack) in Gon's room , it was already afternoon when everyone was finally finished and decided to go back to their own rooms as the three of them need to practice their water divination again since the deadline is close.
At night, when Kallua just finish meditating, he heard someone knock on his door.
`This aura? Papa? What does he want this late of night?' Kallua thought as he goes on the door and opens it to reveal Killua with his cap in front of his doorstep.
"Sorry if I disturb you" Killua looks apologetic as he slightly tilts his cap "But do you mind to hang out for few hours, if that's okay with you. I know it's late but-"
"It's fine" Kallua said immediately "I'll get my jacket, we can go" Instantly Kallua took his jacket which he folded neatly near his bedside table then followed Killua out as he lets his hood covers his face.
Even though it was already late at night, there are many person walking around but looks busy that they didn't paid a lot on attention in their surroundings.. Nevertheless, that is what Killua wants, since Kallua and himself attract quite a lot of attention.
"It sure is rowdy, despite it is late at night" Kallua said suddenly, intending of starting a topic.
"Yeah" Killua nodded "You're right"
Silence…
"Etto, so what's with the sudden invitation?" Kallua said as he looks at Killua "Not that I am complaining or anything"
Killua didn't answer, he only look at the place in front of him then mutter "We are here"
Kallua blink in confusion as he let his gaze fall on the place in front of him, it was kids playground.
"I always wanted to play in here" Killua said as he made his way towards the swings and sit on it comfortably before swinging slightly "Ever since I was a child, its been a place I want to visit to" Killua now look downwards "But I could never achieve that, being an assassin and all"
Kallua decided to do the same, sitting next to Killua on the swing but stay still since his feet is touching the ground unlike Killua then stay silent, unsure on what Killua is trying to say.
Killua seems to notice, he gives a slight smile in pained way that made Kallua slightly worried as he spoke in pained voice "I live in darkness. Yet, I yearn for light and Gon has that"
"So.." Killua's hands is now gripping the swing chain harder "If something happened to me.." His eyes reflecting pain "Please, take care of Gon"
Of course Kallua silently unable to accept that.
"You are strong" Killua continues without making eye contact with Kallua "You could protect her from anyone. Probably me as well" Killua gives a bitter laugh at the end which Kallua dislike. "I can't do a thing with this blood stained hands of mine"
Unable to bear it anymore, Kallua let his hand near Killua whom now has his gaze on it with confusion.
"Hmm? What are you-ITTE!"
Kallua just give Killua, a forehead flick.
And it was painful, needless to say.
"What was that for!?" Killua now sees Kallua eye to eye but regrets it as Kallua is now having his eyes narrowed with flickering anger.
Kallua is now crossing his arms, still maintaining his glare as he spoke in harsh yet hushed tone "quit it"
Killua is shivering, not from the cold night but from the fear of seeing how terrifying Kallua looked now.
To think he, the ex-assassins could be terrified even without Kallua using his bloodlust. He realized how fearsome Kallua is but grateful that he is not an enemy.
"Gon would hate it if you keep saying that" Kallua said, this time his eyes soften when mentioning Gon, something that Killua realized. Guess Gon had influence for all of them.
"But.." Killua eyes trailed down "Im.. not good enough for her.. I realized, I- I probably can't keep her safe and I would place her in danger. I just realized this when I have her.. then knowing some things would happen if I'm with her"
Kallua shook his head with a sigh that makes Killua irritated with that kind of reply after he just pour out his feelings.
It was then Kallua let his hand reach Killua which made him close his eyes in reflex, thinking Kallua is going to forehead flick him once more. However, this time he feel his hand is now on top of his head and brushing his hair gently which made him open his eyes and widen it from seeing pained look that Kallua have.
The sight made Killua's heart clenched as he hurt his best friend.
"Was I bad?"
Hearing Kallua sudden words like that made Killua surprised and confused. Was it because he just forehead flick him?
"N-no, you are not" Killua answers while Kallua's hand is now still gently pats him and rubbing the forehead slowly (silently Killua likes the touch but embarrassed to show it) "What brought this on?"
Still with his hand on top of Killua's head, Kallua finally spoke in low, hushed voice "I too, am an assassin"
Killua widen his eyes, having a hunch like that from feeling his bloodlust but surprised when Kallua is revealing it.
"And like you, I too live in darkness. Does that mean I too will have to stay out from Gon?"
Killua is now inwardly panic, especially when Kallua has retracting his hand away from his head "N-no, you are different!"
"Different?" This time Kallua's eyes turn stoic and Killua gulped "What makes me different?"
Killua had no answer to that.
"I kill people too, even when I was merely 3 without any training nor skills" That statement made Killua widen his eyes "Even I almost kill my mother" Kallua had pained laugh, remembering the incident when his bloodlust activated at that time "I'm still killing afterwards, even without any emotion" Now his stoic eyes met Killua's widen eyes "And you are telling me that I'm different?"
Killua could only remain silent with dark expression, he did understood that Kallua is dangerous. He is strong and shown to be very skillful with his assassin ability. Still, why was he at ease in entrusting Gon with him?
"I.. I trust you" Killua whom is looking downwards finally began to spoke after few moments of silence which shocked Kallua the most. "I did have a hunch for you being an assassins or a killer but still- I trust you"
Another few moments of silence, it was then Killua could feel Kallua's hand on top of his head once more, ruffling his hair gently. When Killua look towards Kallua, this time his eyes are no longer stoic but bright, full of life which made Killua happy but silently made him jealous for having such bright eyes that reflecting life.
"Then I'm trusting you as well" Kallua lets out a small laugh that is chime-like, similar with Gon that Killua noted "You would be able to keep Gon save. I would be helping for that to happen"
Now Killua understood what makes Kallua different. He may be cold and live in darkness like him but there is a part of him that is bright and full of life that reminds him of Gon. Strange that Kallua could remind him of himself and sometime later, remind him of Gon.
It was as if Kallua is part of him and Gon's self.
"You don't need to worry" Kallua said, successfully pulling Killua out from his train of thoughts "Gon would want you to be by her side forever" That made Killua blushed "And forever you would go to stay by her side"
Killua can't help but let's out a laugh before then followed by Kallua. Oh well, he lost. Guess he too would be like this with Gon, though it does make him happy.
"Thanks, for helping me with Gon" Killua said, mentioning what happened before added "Thanks that brother of yours from me too"
"Ah, sure" Kallua said (surprisingly, his hand is still ruffling Killua's head before then finally retracts it, earning silent protest from Killua) "I'll give that message later"
"Right" Killua nodded as he rummages his pocket and takes out a chocorobokun with a ribbon neatly decorating it then hands it out for Kallua "Happy birthday to you. Sorry that this is all I can give"
Kallua slightly widen his eyes before lets out a smile then accepts the chocorobokun. Untying the ribbon then opens it before handing some to Killua.
"Wha- But its yours!" Killua said, despite he wants it.
"Why not? I want to share since it's our birthday" Kallua said which can't made Killua protest further before then accepting it.
As Killua takes the chocorobokun, he too is letting out a smile as he looks at Kallua.
"Happy birthday to you"
"Happy birthday to you too"
And with that, they enjoy the chocorobokun on the swings with smile all over their faces.