Kissanpennun: Welcome to Kissing Cloud; a Hibari x Oc story. I'm Kiss-san, the author of this fan fiction and I hope you're enjoying the chapters out. :3 This chapter is of the Thunder and Storm matches. Hopefully I'm keeping Aina's bloodline secret for now, because I want to reveal it in the future arch when it's more important. Also saw someone review about the chapters need to be longer. ^^; Umm… my chapter length vary depending on what I'm writing. So some may be shorter, while others will be longer. Depending on what I'm writing will depend on the length.
Obviously these ring matches and the future arch chapters are going to be a little bit longer. This one will be the first one to skip a ring match because I wanted Aina to come at the end of the match. The rest Aina will be there on time to watch the whole thing; the other one she'll miss is Hibari's. Why? owo You'll see why when I post the chapter with his match in it. And I won't spoil what Aina does when the Sky match comes, it's a secret! ^w~
Anyways, now that the little explanation about chapter lengths and what is to come is over; onto the usual. Please R&R and enjoy Chapter 6. :3
Disclaimer: I don't own KHR; however, I do own my Ocs.
Chapter 6: The Rose's vow to the Thunder and Storm Guardians
Aina rushed up the stairs to the roof after seeing the large explosion on the top. She couldn't believe Ren and Rei kept her home because they didn't understand why she had to be at school so late. If she didn't sneak out as she did, then she wouldn't be so close as she was. Running through the door, Aina panted as she leaned against the door. "Aina-san," Gokudera's shocked voice reached her ears. Aina opened her eyes to see the scene before her. Lambo unconscious on the ground, a melted spire, and what appeared as the aftermath of a lost for their side. There was also a Cervello on the ground injured from Xanxus blasting her, something Aina didn't see because she came too late.
"Sorry princess," Bel snickered. Aina glanced up, seeing Varia there with slightly smug looks on their faces. "You came a little late. That stupid brat and your boss lost their rings. Two rings down." Aina blinked, glancing over at Lambo's body. He was in terrible condition; which would mean that Levi didn't hold back for the child. "Aina-san," Tsuna said apologetically. He knew Aina must be in pain at seeing Lambo hurt; her bangs hiding her face as her body trembled.
"I am the rightful Guardian of Thunder," Levi said smugly. What happened next did wipe that smug expression off of Levi's face. A sharp slap to the Varia Thunder Guardian from Aina caused him to not only step back, but to make Varia watch her warily. The first time they threaten to hurt Lambo, she mimicked Xanxus flame although she didn't have his destructive qualities in her flames. "I won't forgive you," gritted out Aina. She looked up at him, her green eyes narrowed as rage burned visibly in her irises. Levi stepped back; not out of fear, but because he saw the flames erupt on her hands. The flames were the same as before, but Levi knew if he tried taking her on now he wouldn't guarantee he could win.
Fighting a girl shouldn't be much for the Varia assassin; however, this was a girl he knew. Although Aina didn't recognize them, Levi didn't really want to hurt her unless he was ordered to do such. To him, Aina was the innocent in the family; naïve about the mafia world she was apart of. If he attacked her, he probably wouldn't forgive himself. Nor would that person forgive him for harming her. "If you want a fight, trash, I'll take you on," Xanxus said from above. Xanxus was more than fine taking her on; actually, he wanted her to come and attack him. She may not be one of Tsuna's guardian, but to see who's flame was stronger made him itch to see if she could beat him. Mammon glanced over at Xanxus, curious as to why the boss had that crazed look in his eyes. The one where he wanted a fight. To pick a fight with a weak girl, one who didn't even know how to fight…
What did he expect her to do? It's not like she'd naturally know how to combat; it's her first time fighting.
Aina glanced up, and Tsuna worried in her current mind set she may just take up his words. "Aina-san," Tsuna yelled rushing to grab her hands. "Tenth!" Gokudera exclaimed, knowing well enough that if Tsuna grabbed her hands he might get hurt. Grabbing her flames with his bare hands could definitely hurt him unless he wore his gloves. Even Reborn looked on with everyone in Tsuna's party in anticipation to see what would happened; nervous of the results. Tsuna was prepared to get hurt when he grabbed her hands; however, her flames just covered his and didn't harm him. It caught him off guard; Aina's flames were gently wrapping around his hands. As if they were trying to protect him from harm. Aina head was down, her body shaking with the anger she felt towards Varia for what they did to Lambo.
"Tsuna-san…" Aina voice had a tremor in that whisper, meaning she was trying to not attack although she really wanted to. Squalo crossed his arms, surprised that Aina's flames weren't hurting the brat. But he could figure Aina's mentality could tell friend from foe; meaning her flames would never hurt anyone she cares for. Squalo glanced over at Xanxus, who still looked down at her; anticipating for her to come over an attack him. "Boss," whispered Levi. The anticipation in Xanxus eyes surprised him, as if he really wanted to fight with the girl although Levi figured Xanxus could just easily kill her. But would he really kill her was the question. To make her attack him… What exactly was going through his boss's head?
Aina jerked her hands from Tsuna's, and he looked worriedly at her. The flames on her hands extinguished as she knelt down and picked up Lambo. She cradled the little boy to her chest, and she seem to give Xanxus' challenge a cold shoulder. "I won't fight you," Aina said softly. She turned her gaze at him, the anger still burning in her eyes as she glared at him. "But one day, I will," she promised. Xanxus smirked, the scars on his face becoming bigger as if he really wanted her to charge at him. However, Aina knew better since Tsuna's grabbing her reminded her that Lambo needed to get to a hospital.
Xanxus found the promise interesting; however, he was bored of her now. Being motherly, trying to think of others before fighting. Useless as usual. "Tsk. Shame you have to be act motherly, trash," Xanxus scoffed before disappearing. He already warned Levi of disgracing him, and the rest of Varia left with him. Aina ignored his words, not caring if he was angry she didn't attack him. Reborn and Iemitsu talked, saying things about going to Italy and how he was worried about the ninth.
"Aina-chan," came a soft voice from her past. Was the older gentleman with white hair, standing next zio Coyote the ninth? "We have to get Lambo to a hospital," Aina said urgently, getting nods from the boys that surrounded her. Far away, hidden on a rooftop was three people. One commented on Tsuna's flames chuckled, before saying something else. "Seems like the kitten has new claws, interesting," the female said. Lifting her shadowed hand up, the mist ring gleaming in the little light provided showed proof this was the mist guardian. Whoever it was, they seem to only watching for now.
After they left Lambo in the hospital, the group was heading back home. "I think I'll head somewhere for a bit," Aina said, forcing a smile on her face. "Are you sure," Tsuna asked worriedly. He figured something was really wrong. "Iie, I'm fine," Aina replied reassuringly. She gave a weak wave and headed off in one direction. "Gokudera-kun," Tsuna said as he watched Aina walk off. "Maybe you should go with Aina-san to see if she's really ok." Gokudera stared at the tenth, wondering why he was bringing it up now. "That's an order Gokudera, go make Aina feel better and take her home," Reborn commanded.
Gokudera gawked, not liking how this was going. "But she just said she's fine," Gokudera interjected. Tsuna gave him a sad smile, making in look at the tenth in wonder. "I don't think she is. I'm sure if I went, she wouldn't want to talk about it with me. So maybe you can cheer her up. She looked so sad when she left," Tsuna said solemnly. Gokudera flinched, knowing that the tenth was requesting he do it must mean that he was trusting Gokudera to cheer Aina up. As a right hand man, he should be able to do this for the boss. If he couldn't, that meant he failed at being his right hand man. "Right, tenth, I'll go now! Leave it to me," Gokudera said, rushing off after Aina.
Tsuna blinked, not sure why he had a feeling Gokudera took that the wrong way. "Don't worry, Tsuna," Reborn reassured the teen. "But kid," Yamamoto interjected, "Gokudera doesn't normally talk to Aina-san. I think Tsuna's worried he may just make things worse." Tsuna sighed and nodded at what Yamamoto said. In fact, Gokudera actually avoids talking to Aina even when everyone is with them. Unless she says something to him, he doesn't converse with her and always looks away from her. "I worry he might hurt her accidentally by saying something," Tsuna admitted.
"I'm sure he wouldn't mean it and apologize," Ryohei commented. Tsuna nodded, sighing at the thought of the two. He really didn't get why Gokudera didn't get along with Aina; maybe he was mad about something and Aina had no idea what it was about. "Mn. But I'm more worried about her feelings, she seemed so out of it after we left Lambo. I wonder if I should have gone myself and tried." Tsuna said, scratching the back of his head in wonderment. "She was pretty distant, but I'm sure Gokudera can cheer her up somehow," Yamamoto said. Tsuna glanced over at him, wondering why he said something like that.
Reborn glanced over at Tsuna. "I'm sure Gokudera won't hurt her feelings. You did ask him to cheer her up and he'll do it since you're the boss," Reborn reminded him. Tsuna blinked, finding what Reborn said odd. Although, considering Gokudera says he'd do anything for him because he is Tsuna's right hand man; Tsuna wondered if that's why Reborn had faith that Gokudera wouldn't hurt Aina's feelings. "If you say so, Reborn," Tsuna sighed. Maybe he was over worrying because of how Aina appeared tonight. He never seen her so angry before. Aina wasn't the type of person who he'd expect to get angry that fast, but it was different. He saw the pain, the anger, the self loathing her eyes. As much as she was mad at Varia for hurting Lambo; she was hating herself for not protecting him.
All Tsuna could hope for was that Gokudera cheered her up before his match tomorrow night.
_~With Gokudera and Aina~_
Gokudera managed to find Aina near the Namimori Shrine. She stood outside the front of the shrine, looking at the red building sadly. "There you are Aina-san," Gokudera sighed. He just caught his breath before he spoke to her since he had to climb up the stairs to get there in a hurry. The tenth wanted him to cheer her up; he'd do his best. Aina blinked, turning around at Gokudera with a somber look. Inwardly he flinched, knowing that wasn't how he'd expected her to look at him. He was expecting her to turn around and smile, not to look so sad.
"Oh," Aina said, "Gokudera-san. What brings you here?" Gokudera balled his fist, hating how she even sounded sad. Evidently the tenth was right; Aina wasn't fine if she wasn't her normal cheerful self. But he wasn't like the tenth, so how can he cheer her up? "What's with you? You say you're fine, but your about to cry, aren't you?" Gokudera bluntly asked, his arms crossed over his chest and he looked like he was mad at her. He mentally slapped himself after he said it, realizing he just how brazenly rude he was to her when he asked that. The white hair teen hated he was still on the defensive with her; maybe he should be more open since she is part of the family.
Aina looked at the ground, not really saying anything. Even Gokudera was expecting the auburn haired girl to at least call him out on being mean. Not even that much. He looked at her sadly; with the cow being injured, she was really was beating herself by not protecting him. "Aina-san. Everyone is worried about you," Gokudera said softly and walked to stand next to her. "You can't just keep all your problems to yourself; we're family." Aina lifted her head to look at him when he said that. She didn't understand why he said "family" so tenderly; she always thought he hated her for some reason. Which was why she constantly said "-san" instead of "-kun" to the other boys. If she did, maybe he wouldn't be so mad at her if she acted a little distant.
She gave a bitter laugh, wrapping her arms about her waist. "I hate myself," Aina admitted. "I hate this anger in me. When I was looking at Xanxus, I heard something deep inside me say something terrible." She looked away from him. Ashamed to even think of what it said to her when she looked at Xanxus. "What did it say," Gokudera inquired. He placed a hand on her shoulder, a gentle squeeze to reassure her he wasn't going to judge her for what was going to be said. "You want to tear his throat and kill him? Do it, kill the bastardo for what his men did to Lambo." Aina said softly, feeling Gokudera jerked at her words through his hand.
Gokudera really didn't like why that inner voice sounded violent; it didn't fit Aina personality or temperament. Or was it like her cousin Ren? Did Aina have a vicious side to herself and didn't know it? "Aina-san," Gokudera said uncertain what to say. How could he cheer her up? It was obvious that Aina was struggling with herself as she continued to come to these matches. It was just going to get worse the more she came to them; however, Reborn thinks she needs to be there as part of the family. "Aina-san, hit me," Gokudera said suddenly. Aina turned to him, a frown on her face at what he said.
"E?" Aina was quite confused on what he said. Why would she hit him? There wasn't a real reason to, and she wasn't mad at him. "Hit me, otherwise I won't be satisfied for hurting you until now," Gokudera said sternly. She tilted her head, her green eyes holding confusion what he was saying. Hurting her until now? Does that mean he wanted her to hit him because until now he just hurt her by avoiding her? Because up till now, he never accepted you in the family. Aina wondered about that logical thought that drifted in her mind. She gave a small smile, a look of relief spread on her facial features as she looked at him. Really, Gokudera was as slow as ever. Even if he appears as a genius to others.
Gokudera had his eyes closed, his hands balled up and at his side as he prepared himself to receive a harsh slap to the face for what he did. To be honest, if burying the hatchet between them made her better; he'd take a hit if it meant she didn't hate herself. "I can hit you any way I want, right," Aina inquired. Gokudera got a little nervous, wondering what she was going to do now that she mentioned that. "Yes! Now please hit me," Gokudera repeated. He didn't know how she was gonna hit him, but he was expecting it. "Gokudera, closing your eyes doesn't help. Open your eyes like a man and look at me," Aina said flatly.
The white haired teen flinched, opening his eyes to see the scrutiny in her eyes. Evidently she didn't want him not see her hit him, which meant she wanted him to remember when she did it. And he will, because Aina was going to give him a hit he'd never forget. Aina drew her right hand back, her palm opened as if she was going to smack him with everything she had. Gokudera thought it was going to be a slap; however, Aina's last second change in hand formation gave the storm guardian a sucker punch he wasn't expecting. A hard right hook with her balled up fist to his left cheek made him not only stumble back and fall down; he held his cheek as he stared at her. "I'll forgive you with this, Gokudera-kun," Aina said as she held up the fist she used to hit him.
He blinked, stunned she added "-kun" to his name. Kinda made him feel better that they were a bit more closer. Aina squatted down, peering at him slightly annoyed; a elbow propped on her jean clad knee as fiddle with the end of her blue long sleeve jacket. "Stop avoiding me. I know I have a temper that I hide a lot, but it's only because I don't need that anger. I want to get stronger, and that anger won't get me anywhere." Aina said, sighing softly thinking about what happened with Lambo. "I have to get stronger to protect him until he can protect himself."
For Gokudera to hear her admit those things, it made him feel that she was really trying her best to fit in. And to hear her mention she had to get stronger just to protect the cow… It made him smile, because that was how Aina was. Xanxus may have scoffed at her maternal instincts; however, those instincts were what stopped her from fighting in anger. She was right; anger didn't suit her at all. The more calm she is the better. "I promise to win the next fight," Gokudera said earnestly. He hopped up and looked at her. "I won't let Varia keep hurting our comrades and pull a victory."
Aina stood up, flicking him hard in the forehead. "Don't overexert yourself for the ring," Aina said sternly. She gave him a brooding stare, making the Guardian of Storms fidget a bit. "Even if you don't win, come back to us alive. There is no point dying over a ring; there will be other chances." Aina said, ruffling his hair making him swat her hands away and yell at her. She laughed, poking his side as he got angry that she was teasing him. Gokudera may not like it; although, this did bring the Tsuna's Shadow and the Storm Guardian closer.
With that, the two headed home for a night's rest. Gokudera felt like he had to come out victorious; even if it cost him his life.
_~The next night at Namimori Middle~_
"Where is Aina-san," Tsuna asked as he looked around from the corridor he was in. He was worried she may not show up because what happened to Lambo last night. Maybe it was best she wasn't a part of this; just tell her to not come to a ring match and hope it'll ease her pain. "Tsuna-kun," yelled a voice from down the hall. Tsuna glanced up, seeing Aina running his way. Surprising she was running better in a kimono today, and she managed to get to him in a short moment. "Aina-san why are you here," Tsuna asked while she caught her breath.
Aina looked up at him, a frown forming before she flicked his forehead. Tsuna gasped, holding the spot as he looked at her. She put her hands on her hips, looking a bit irritated at his question. "Why wouldn't I be here? I'm your shadow, Tsuna-kun. Besides, I have my cousins looking for Gokudera too. I explained to them after I came home, but asked them to keep it from nana for her own sake." Aina said, opening a door to a classroom to peek into to see if Gokudera was in there. She grabbed his hand, tugging him along to continue looking for Gokudera. Tsuna followed her, a little stunned and relieved that she was there. He also didn't miss her calling him "Tsuna-kun" either. It felt nice hearing that she was allowing him to be a bit closer to her.
When they reunited with the some of the group, Tsuna finally saw the twins for the first time. "Starting to wonder when Aina would show up," Ren said irritably. Aina giggled, patting his arm gently as to soothe his mood. "Ya," Rei said with his arms behind his head before nodding in Varia's directions. "Might want to tell those guys over there Ren hates to be stared at. He gets stage fright when people stare to intensely, hence why he isn't married." Ren closed his eyes, an obvious vein popping on his forehead to prove he was literally holding himself back from his brother. "Remind me later to teach you a lesson, otouto-kun," Ren said flatly. Rei sharply glared over at his brother after hearing the little insult. "Sure, aniki, and I'll make sure to bring a wheelchair for your use later," shot back Rei. The two twins glared, the sparks flying between the brothers even made Tsuna stare in shock.
"F-fierce," Tsuna said. Aina gave a nervous laugh since she knows that once those two start, there was no stopping them. "Ren-ni, Rei-ni," Aina said trying to make them settle down. That was when the rest of the search party came back to report they couldn't find him. Aina glanced over at the clock, worried he wouldn't make it in time. Just as they were about to disqualify Gokudera, something blew up the clock. "Sorry to keep you waiting, Tenth," came Gokudera's voice from behind. Everyone turned around, glad to see Gokudera there. The group turned around, hoping that he made it in time. When the Cervellos acknowledge that he made it on time everyone breathed a sigh of relief.
Everyone aside from Aina and her cousins decided to talk to Gokudera. She just stood there whilst they chatter, and then Gokudera glanced over at her. "Good luck, Goki-kun," Rei said. Aina sweat dropped at her cousin's comment, seeing it irritated Gokudera. Ren pushed his glasses up, casing a glare over to his brother. "You have poor memory; it's Gokudera Hayato," Ren stated. He turn his gaze onto Gokudera, who stood straight at the sight of the twin. "It's a storm match, so I hope it's fitting to say demolishing the enemy whilst deflecting attacks from yourself. Offense and defense, take it as you see fit." Gokudera blinked, not sure what to say to Ren. Certainly it's one of those phrases that has a hidden meaning to it; although, just getting advice from a man who appeared to dislike him seems like he accepted him.
"Uh, thank you," Gokudera said awkwardly. "I still don't like you; however, Aina said you're part of this big family. Meaning I'll have to be the adult, put aside my dislike and try to find something tolerable." Ren's flat remark made most of the group sweat drop. Gokudera saw that comment coming, and he'd rather have the harsh cousin than a nice one. Much more tolerable for now. Varia was talking amongst themselves, saying that Gokudera should have ran away.
That was when the Cervellos revealed the mechanic of this match. High torrent winds started to blow desks out the window. When it was explained that there was a time bomb in there, Aina gasped. That was when Tsuna uttered Xanxus' name, knowing he was the one who no longer cared for the other guardians rings any more. "That's too cruel," Aina said, her hands covering her mouth in horror. Ren and Rei looked down at her; silently wondering if this was even good for their little sister to be there. They argued with her about how it wasn't a good thing for a girl like her; in spite of their valid reasons, she stood firm on continuing going to these matches. She said that if she was to get stronger, to protect Lambo, to protect those she loves and cares for; she'll endure it. The twins were surprised by her resolve to stick with it. This is why they are with her since that was the agreement. She can go only if they accompany her and are kept up-to-date on the mafia things.
"A death match? Sounds fun," Gokudera said with a small smile. Aina looked over at him when she heard him say that. A death match wasn't fun. It was stupid, cowardly, and foul on Xanxus to do something like this. Just as that happened, the perverted doctor came up and put one hand on each Cervellos' shoulder. The elbowed him, causing him to fall back and Tsuna yell his name in surprise.
"Did he say 'Shamal'?" Squalo's inquiry was answered by Mammon, revealing that Trident Shamal was recruited for Varia two generations ago and he refused to join. Gokudera demanded why he was there, and he answered. The last bit more mean that Aina wanted to slap him. "Then you should have stayed home, perverted doctor," Aina huffed. This caused Shamal to look over at her an smile. "Ah, seems like someone has high blood pressure," he said happily. He walked over hands extended, a faint blush on his face as he looked like he was going to grope her. "Neko-chan needs some medicine or it will get worse-"
The twins both grabbed his hands, gripping them tightly to cause him to look up at them to see the deadly aura surrounding the two. They looked like they were going to murder Gokudera's home tutor. "This neko-chan has inu-gami guardians who likes to send perverts to the pits of hell," the twins unanimously said darkly. Tsuna hid behind Aina with a little shriek while Reborn smirked seeing the twins act ever protective of their little sister. Gokudera sighed, slapping his head because he knows Shamal deserved it because he went after Aina. "Dr. Shamal, if you infect them I won't forgive you," Aina said when she saw Shamal give them a glare in return. The perverted doctor pulled his hands away, putting them into his pockets. "I wouldn't want neko-chan to hate me, so I'll behave."
He turned back around, jutting his finger over to Tsuna's group. "Well, I'm siding with them today," Shamal said. Squalo narrowed his eyes wondering what was going on. "Dino, Colonnello, and now Shamal. Why are such talented people banding together? What the hell is going on! Is this all because of that Arcobaleno? " The furious inquiry from the rain guardian made Aina glance over in wonder what he was getting all riled up about. Bel didn't seem to mind, thinking it was fun since his opponent was Gokudera.
"Alright, let's do the usual," Ryohei said. Gokudera turned around and tried to convince them he didn't need it. Aina bopped him on the head. He looked at her and she gave him a peeved glare. "It's suppose to give you a boost of spirit while you fight, baka," she snappily stated. Gokudera gave her a dejected look in hopes the wounded look will get him off from doing it. However it was Tsuna's words that brought the storm guardian in. "Don't be like that. Let's do it, Gokudera-kun." This caused Gokudera to look over at him.
"H-how to say this," Tsuna said, trying to find the words to explain. "I can't really put it to words, but… we're all connected in this battle. I don't want any single person left out. It's probably better if we all have solidarity." After that little speech, everyone smiled (aside from the Ren) in hopes Gokudera would understand. "Tenth," Gokudera said slowly. "You're so concerned about the family. I had no idea!" He bowed his head, and Aina sighed. Unless it was expressed properly, Gokudera wouldn't get it. Although, Aina thought maybe it would be best if Tsuna said it to him instead. She's the shadow, not the boss; thusly Tsuna's words are more effective than hers alone.
Gokudera finally agreed to be apart of the group huddle. That's when Reborn tossed a cow tail at Tsuna. It belonged to Lambo; which made Aina think about the little boy in the hospital that was probably being watched by Haru and Kyoko. They said they would watch him since she was busy with dance. When she said that when he gets better, not only was she going to make him a bento, but also perform a little dance for all of them. It was a promise. If they could get through this, then they can all go back to their peaceful life.
The guardians interjected when Tsuna looked sadly at the tail. "Even if he's not here with us, our hearts are one," Ryohei said. Aina nodded, smiling over at Tsuna. "With the tail it almost like he's also here combining his mind, heart, and spirit with us while we wish the others luck on their battles," Aina commented. "Everyone…" Tsuna said, looking at everyone. Even Aina had a point; Lambo's spirit was here in the form of the tail, wishing everyone luck on their victories. "You're right," Tsuna added.
They all got into the huddle (aside from the twins, Basil, Shamal, and Reborn), and got ready for their fighting ritual. "Let's do it," exclaimed Yamamoto. "Gokudera, fight!" With a loud unanimous "Un!" come from the group of teens. The Cervellos called for the Storm guardians to step towards the center; Gokudera saying he'd win as right hand man and not shame Tsuna. Tsuna expressed he just didn't want him Gokudera pushing himself. The group was placed in an spectators booth, and that was when the Cervellos explained that there was an infrared field there to prevent interference.
"We can't move from here," Yamamoto commented. "They're telling us to not do what we did for Lambo." Reborn stated, causing Tsuna to glance over at him. As they watched on, the Cervellos confirmed that Gokudera and Bel both had real Vongola rings. Then Bel walked over, patting Gokudera's shoulder and told him his shoulders looked tense. Gokudera looked up at the surveillance camera; he vowed he'll win for the tenth and Aina. He won't allow himself to become so injured that it'll just hurt Aina to watch anymore. If the tenth notices her pain, he'd be in more pain as well.
As the battle went on, random gust of wind blowing on the battlefield made it appear as if they were on even scores. However, it would appear that Bel's blades were able to ride the wind towards their target. Aina didn't know what to do, watching as the battle went on and she worried more about his safety. When Bel explained his reasoning, Aina caught the way the blade moved. It curved towards Gokudera when the wind itself wasn't. The wind was blowing away from where he sat, meaning something else was aiding in the blade's accuracy. Aina wasn't certain of what it was, but she hoped Gokudera figured the trick out quickly.
As Gokudera sat alone, trying to figure a way to win this battle. Although Bel taunted him about disgracing the tenth, he knew he had to figure a way to win. As he thought of how the blades were getting him, something snick in his head about how it could be possible. Just then, Bel released another wave off knives, hitting the chest of their target. "Gokudera-kun," exclaimed Tsuna. Aina clasped her hands together, praying that Gokudera was ok. The glass to the door shattered as whatever was hit fell to the ground. A science mannequin was tugged up to Gokudera as he explained how Bel hit him.
Aina sighed, glad to know he figured out what it was. Although Aina didn't guess wire exactly, she thought it would be fishing line but wire would make more sense. Another gust of wind blew, and Bel stated that Gokudera couldn't hit him. Gokudera threw his bombs, directing them at Bel. "It'll hit the wind wall again," exclaimed Basil. "Go!" Gokudera whispered, his bombs making a snick sounds as they suddenly become rockets flying straight at Bel. "Rocket Bombs, the technique that Gokudera learned in his training," Shamal said proudly.
Shamal explained about what Gokudera lacked: mobility. By making the bomb change it's direction twice mid flight gave him a large hit box. He learned that when he watched Shamal Trident Mosquitoes flying about. "Amazing Gokudera-kun," Tsuna said. Aina kept quiet, staring at the screen to see what happened to Bel. Evidently the hit was head on. Moving from it would be difficult unless Bel could out run the bombs by the time it the second shift in directions came. Only then could he possibly dodge it, but given when those bombs hit there was slim chances he moved.
"Bel probably isn't unharmed," Levi said. "Exactly. 'It' is about to begin," Mammon said from Gola Mosca's hand. "How horrifying…" Squalo said as the Varia members watched on. All the sudden pieces of the building fell, as if something sharp had sliced them off. The smoke cleared, Bel cackling as he grabbed his face. Seemingly spilling his blood made the "prince" crazy. "It's about to being, the Prince the Ripper's true nature," Mammon said. Bel continued laughing, looking at Gokudera who had no idea what was going on with him.
The battle truly began now when Bel's blood was shed. Gokudera sent another wave of rocket bombs, thinking that long rang knife attacks won't work since he figured out Bel's wire trick. However, instead of dodging the attack Bel charged forward; unseen by most eyes were his knives making quick slashes at the bombs to cause them to explode, propelling him forward. When Bel threw his next pair of knives, they completely missed the mark. Or so was thought until cuts on Gokudera's cheek and his bombs top slicing proved that something hit him. Opened to an attack, Bel in air posed to stab Gokudera. Thinking ahead, Gokudera lit a small bomb and tossed it up; crossing his arms in front of him, the explosion between the two ended up hurting Bel in the process.
Gokudera decided if he couldn't see what was hitting him, he had to find a way to see them. Just as he figured out the wire trick to Bel's first attack. The six minute warning came for the tornado torrents were going to explode. "Gokudera-kun," Aina said worriedly. Ren and Rei watched on silently, not saying anything in case this was also linked up with the field. Ren noticed it after Gokudera's bombs were sliced, the trick was visible, but it was there. He shouldn't say it and let the teen figure it out; even if it meant allowing him to get vastly hurt because of it.
"Men do not learn battle on simulators," the voice in his past rang. "The warrior must learn from real life-or-death combat. If a fool cannot see the gimmicks the opponent is using, they are as good as dead." Ren sighed, knowing that his old friend was right. Probably why he gave up doing what he did; vowing the moment Aina came into his teen life that he'd never do it again. However, it would appear this mafia world would drag him back into such things. He glanced over at Aina who was worried over Gokudera who took refuge in the library. Looking back up at the screen, Ren hoped just as his teacher that Gokudera would figure out the gimmick that Bel was using.
In the library, Gokudera threw more bombs at Bel who came after him. Again his bombs were sliced in thin air when the knives themselves didn't touch them. Something seems unnatural… Gokudera thought, dashing away from Bel's surging assault on him. "But don't you think that it's odd," Reborn inquired. "Yeah. His opponent almost seems like he's missing on purpose," Shamal commented. Gokudera hit a book shelf, knocking down a box with golden hooks in them. Gokudera stood up to dodge the next two knives thrown at him; however, he stopped and looked stunned.
"Gokudera-kun, you need to run," exclaimed Tsuna. "It's not that he's not running; he can't run," Mammon explained. That was when it was explained that what couldn't be seen on the monitor was Gokudera trapped in a wire trap. One move and he might get sliced or torn into pieces. Shamal then stated the reason behind this method; a wire attached to the end of the hilt of the knife allowing a second blade to hit the target if the knife itself missed first. "Add the wind current as it is, the wind blowing the knife would create a second blade by using the wire," Ren stated. Tsuna turned to look at the glasses wearing twin. "It's a smart move on that Bel's part using a knife and a wire together. Wires have been known to, at the right speed and tension, to be a guillotine of death. In this sort of setting, if Gokudera dodged and step in the direction of the blade afterwards means it would have done more damage than nick him."
Aina looked at where Gokudera was at, worried he may not make it out unless he could do something. As Gokudera dropped his lighter, it would appear the end. "There has to be something he can do, Ren-nii-san," Tsuna said in hopes of answers. Ren looked back up at the monitor. "Un. Although me saying it won't help him; he has to do it himself. A man cannot learn to fight just by hearing someone talk about it. He must experience it in battle and do it himself if he wants to be victorious." Tsuna blinked at Ren's words, finding it surprising that the man sounded as if he knew from experience. Seemingly the cousin who appeared to work for a business had a lot more in his past; there was more hidden from the teens than the man was willing to spill.
And Gokudera did know how to get out. Fine explosive powder littering the floor leading over to the bookshelves caused them to explode. The wires around him sagged, giving him the chance he needed to send a wave of bomb rockets; this time he used Bel's wires against him by using those hooks to create a monorail of explosives his way. It seemed like victory; however, the Cervellos stated they would not see it as one until the ring was completed. Gokudera tried to take it off, and Bel somehow had the strength to grab his ring. The two struggled, trying to pull the other one's ring half off to complete the ring. As it was going on, the warning bells that the explosions were going to start began blaring. Aina got worried that Gokudera wouldn't make it in time to come back.
"Gokudera," Aina yelled. "Hurry! Get back here! There isn't a point in dying over the ring when we have other chances!" Aina could tell he heard her, however he seemed to think the ring was far more important. "Idiot, that's not what's important," Aina said looking at Tsuna. Tsuna didn't need the hint, and he also yelled at Gokudera. Telling him he wanted to have snowball fights, go see fireworks, and that was the only reason why everyone was getting stronger. Ren chuckled, figuring that was what Tsuna was saying seemed rather silly; however, to the teen it meant far more to him and his friends.
"If you die, all that will be meaningless," Aina yelled with Tsuna. Gokudera sat there stunned, they're words hitting home as he realize he had to get back. Unfortunately it was too late. The bombs' final countdown buzzed, and one by one they began exploding. Out of the smoke Gokudera came, and the infrared sensors were turned off to allow them to rush to his side. "I'm sorry, Tenth," Gokudera said after he fell face down into the ground. "While the ring was taken from me, I came back because I wanted to see those fireworks." Tsuna sighed, "Thank goodness. Gokudera-kun, I'm so happy."
Gokudera shot up, shocked. "But I lost!" Aina shook her head, giggling at Gokudera's attitude. So like him to beat himself over a lost when it wasn't that terrible of a lost. Ren and Rei hung back with Reborn and Shamal. "So he lived for his friends," Ren commented. Reborn looked at the twins as they marveled at the group. "Un. Seems like they are far better off than we ever were in the past. Safe?" Ren slide a glance over to his twin, knowing well his true personality was sort of slipping. "Safe," he replied.
Reborn and Shamal was trying to decode their talk; evidently the twins' had a past similar to what was going on. This made Reborn wonder if they would also be an asset to the family. The twins went back to watching the teens quietly, seeing Gokudera stagger as he got up. That's when Gokudera said he wanted Yamamoto to win, getting embarrassed that the baseball nut didn't get what he meant the first time. After announcing that Bel won, the Cervellos revealed the next match; Rain rings were to fight next. Yamamoto smirked looking over at Squalo who seemed to have become cocky and start trash talking.
"You better not run when you remember how badly I beat you last time, kid!" He sounded quite confident that he would win. Yamamoto's laugh caused Tsuna to look at him. "Not to worry about there. I'm so excited I can't sleep," Yamamoto said. Aina blinked, having a feeling that Yamamoto's training really helped him in the swordsmanship part. Squalo didn't find it amusing, glaring and gritting his teeth at Yamamoto's words. Then one of Levi's men came, saying someone snuck into the school ground and the Lighting Force was being taken down one by one.
Aina frowned, wondering who it was as Reborn stated that the Guardians were falling into place. When Reborn said that, she dreaded on if he guess was right on just who it was beating the living crap out of Levi's men. There was only one other person who would be coming to school this late of night. And given that Levi's men were being beaten one by one so easily, she had a feeling her being here was probably a good thing.
_~Down with Levi's men~_
One of Levi's men flew from the strike the intruder, causing the others to turn and look at them. "He's tough," one commented. "Who are you!" The footsteps forward paused, a familiar red armband clipped to the white sleeve of a shirt gleamed in the moonlight. Tonfas being carried as the male continued his way forward towards the group guarding the school. "In the name of Levi Lightning Force, we cannot let you pass!" They charged at the assailant, also being struck down quickly by him. He continued his way as if nothing was wrong; a man slumped to the ground, and another back leaning out the broken window while his legs were still inside.
_~Back to where everyone else is~_
"The intruder is breaking through our ranks quickly. The casualties are numerous," the man said looking at Varia. While Varia talked amongst themselves, the one man leaving to confront the intruder; Tsuna group wondered who it was. "I wonder who it is," Ryohei said. "Then that would mean…" Tsuna said looking down at Reborn. Reborn looked up at the teens. "Yeah, he just got back from training." The man that belonged to Varia was sent sprawling back into the corridor, and walking behind him was none other than his attacker. "Hibari-san!" Tsuna said, seeing Hibari lift up his tonfa as he looked towards the group. "Hibari-san really did come," Tsuna exclaimed.
Considering Aina was hidden behind the teens, he couldn't see her for the moment. This was a good thing, meaning Aina can come out and calm him down instantly if he tried to do something ever so dangerous to the group. "Trespassing on school grounds," Hibari said before turning towards Varia. They appear apprehensive about him being there, almost as if they could sense his bloodlust. "As well as destruction of school property. You are all jointly guilty and I'm going to bite you all to death." Tsuna stared at him shocked, as if he wasn't expecting that.
The Cervello appeared to try and disarm the whole thing, but Levi pushed her away. He was furious Hibari attacked his men. Hibari just tripped him easily, causing Squalo to want to join the fight. Just as he was going to fight Squalo, Yamamoto stepped in. He dodged Hibari's attack, telling him he wanted to be the one to fight Squalo. This made the Varia rain guardian take notice at Yamamoto's movements, and it only made Hibari mad. "Please stop, Hibari-san!" Tsuna said, worried there would be an all out brawl and most of everyone would lose their rings.
"Hibari-kun, don't you dare," Aina's voice rang out. Hibari glanced over, as well as everyone else looked at the peeved looking Aina. With her hands on her hips, she gave stare at Hibari. Hibari blinked, glancing over at her to see her in a black kimono. Her hair was done up, another oriental hair ornament gracing her hair as she stood there looking at him. "Pillow," the inquiry was gentle, as if he mistaken her for someone else. She walked forward and poked his nose. "Hibari-kun, no fighting please. I know you don't like the school being destroyed. But please hear the Cervellos out before you bite people. You're always bite first, listen later," Aina chided.
Tsuna sighed in relief at Aina stepping in. Although the pet name confused Varia; the matter was Aina had stopped Hibari from continuing his little attack. "Pillow," Hibari said softly so she could hear him. "If you interfere again, I will bite you." Aina scoffed the threat, finding it amusing he was using that. "Un. Although, if you don't behave yourself before your match. I'll bite you," Aina teased. Hibari stared at her, briefly stunned at her words and also found them intriguing.
His pillow promising to bite him if he didn't behave? Now that was something he wouldn't mind looking forward to. "Ciaossu, Hibari," Reborn said, catching his attention. "You can go wild here if you want, but the fun you'll have later will be gone." Hibari looked down at Reborn, and Aina glanced down at the baby hitman as well in wonder of what he was saying. "Fun," Hibari inquired. "Not right now, but if you wait a bit longer, you may be able to fight Rokudo Mukuro again in the near future." Reborn said, making it an appetizing thing for Hibari. Not only did he have his pillow promising to bite him, but a possible fight?
All good things come to those who wait, and he can wait if it meant the rewards were greater. This allowed the Cervellos to reassure him they will take care of the damages. "I've changed my mind," Hibari said walking off. "Don't lose to him before it's my turn to fight." This was directed towards Yamamoto, who was a bit lost for words. "Hi-Hibari-san," Tsuna asked. "Ja-nee," Hibari said. But before he left, he needed a little word with his pillow. He leaned close to her, his eyes closed as he whispered in her ear so only she could hear him. "I shall wait for the day you decided to bite me, pillow," and he left. Aina lifted her kimono sleeve, hiding the evident blush forming on her face.
"Hibari-san stopped fighting," Tsuna said in amazement. "That's how big the insult he received from Mukuro was," Reborn said. Tsuna then started on him about promising about Mukuro, and Reborn flatly remarked with a "Who knows" that only angered him more. "We should thank Aina-san too," Yamamoto said. Tsuna blinked, wondering what he meant until he looked towards Aina. "Oh no," Aina said dropping the sleeve of kimono, the blush not fading in time when she did so. "I was just making sure he wasn't acting out of order. I mean, well, um," the auburn haired girl stuttered.
Basil bonked his right fist into his left palm when he figured out what Yamamoto was implying. "Oh, Lady Aina is Lord Hibari's lady, thou words speakesth greater to him than ours," Basil said. That just made her flush more, embarrassed he said it in such a way. His Old English way of phrasing things made things sound far more bluntly romantic than what she's use to. "Wait, if she's his lady," Ryohei muttered as he tried to piece together what was said. However, their conversation was put to an end when Squalo yelled over at Yamamoto. He was impressed, but he still believed that Yamamoto still had zero percent of winning against him. Varia also left, saying some more trash talk as they and the Cervellos disappeared.
Since they left, Gokudera was looked over by Romario and Dino who just found out Hibari left not too long ago. "That guy," Dino sighed before glancing over at Aina. "Ah, Aina-chan," Dino greeted her. She bowed, slightly glad the subject of her and Hibari dating was done and over with. "I'm sure Aina-chan dressing in a kimono was a treat for Hibari after all that training. Must be nice to see his girlfr-" his words were cut off when something flew past his head. "Hot," Dino gasped before everyone was staring at Aina.
The sky flames were back on her hands, and she was red in the face. "I forget Aina gets embarrassed when talking about Hibari and her's relationship," Reborn remarked. Dino gasped, looking at his former teacher as if it was a set up. "Wait, Aina-chan I didn't know," Dino said in hopes she'd calm down. No such luck considering he tweaked her nerve the wrong way. It's one thing for Haru and Kyoko to tease her about it; they were girlfriends who were allowed to tease her. Possibly the guardians could get away with teasing her too because she knew them ;however, Dino she didn't know, and he was a guy. He had no right, in her book, to tease her about her dating the carnivore.
"Dino-san," Aina sang sweetly. She started walking towards him and he nervously walked back a step. It was one thing to fight Hibari; however, him fighting a girl with sky flames on her hands who was pissed at him for teasing was another thing. "I forgot something to a subordinate of mine, excuse me!" Dino said, rushing off to go find a place to hide. Aina created a ball of fire and tossed it at him, narrowly missing her target with a huff. Of course it hit a wall, exploding it and making a bigger hole in the wall. This made the boys around her sweat drop at the matter. A very well learned lesson: don't continually tease her about her dating Hibari and she won't start attacking you.
The twins tried to settle her down, and that was the end of the third night. The encounter with the mist guardian was coming closer; whoever is the guardian is about to be revealed. However the firs thing the group had to worry about was Yamamoto winning his match. The night battle for the Guardian of the Rain ring can either be a victory for Tsuna's group, or failure if Varia wins taking the rings and stealing the inheritance.
bastardo: means "bastard" in Italian.
e: "sorry" as if you didn't catch what they said or didn't understand what was said.
aniki: another way to say "big brother"
otouto: "little brother" Never used with "-chan" or "-kun", except for the purpose to look down on him. "Otouto-san" is used when talking about other person's brother.
neko: "cat"
inu-gami: "dog-god" reference to Japanese mythology.
Kissanpennun: I'll admit it right now; I was getting lazier on the fighting when it got closer and closer to the end. ~w~ I was just thinking "A few more sentences… just a bit more…" Then I had to reference the episodes with the fight and saw that there were far more action in there. Then I edited it to add on to scenes that were lazily done, added a bit of dialogue, and cleaned it up to make it look less lazy. D'x Dear god! I was trying sooo badly not to end it right then and there when Hibari came in bashing Levi's men, but I wanted to add a little cute scene with the two love birds. Particularly Aina tossing her flames at Dino because he pissed her off. xD She has a short temper and doesn't like being teased too much in one day on her boyfriend. 3
Funny how she gets embarrassed about them being called a couple and they are one. Sad thing is (and you'll find out in the chapters after the ring matchs) how little their relationship progressed. D: Look forward to Aina and Hibari having some time to themselves before I kick Tsuna and co to the future to fight Byakuran. I thought of those chapters while I was driving my car, and I giggled so much. XD Anyways, back to the line up for ring match chapters.
I've decided that since I'm doing ring matches in sets, the next set is gonna be even longer because I'm shoving three battles in one chapter. That's right; three matches in one chapter. No fucking about, no lazy moments. So these are the line ups in the chapter, in order as they come in the series: Yamamoto vs. Squalo, Chrome/Mukuro vs. Mammon (Viper), and Hibari vs. Gola Mosca. The event after Hibari's victory will be at the beginning of the Sky Ring/Battle Royal match. Reasoning behind that scene is because it has it's own importance and I wanted Aina to have a little combative shine moment. That's correct; Aina fights in chapter 8 for a bit.
I did write down on a piece of paper while in class a list of chapter ideas. :3 Although I haven't thought of ideas for the future arch for now; I'm sure I'll figure them out by the time I get around to writing them. So please R&R and I shall see you next time, ciao-ne! :3
Chapter 7: Tsuna's Guardians fight back
Three battles in one chapter. First battle is Yamamoto vs. Superbia Squalo, the man who was suppose to be Varia's boss and the man Dino refers to as a shark looking for a bloody fight. Aina watched on, and Xanxus is in the area to watch Squalo win. However, Yamamoto was the one to come out victorious. Aina exchanges a few heated words with Xanxus; saying he wasn't worthy of being boss if he doesn't care for his subordinates lives. It gets a rise out of Bel, but not Xanxus. Next night is the mist guardian match; revealing Ken and Chikusa bringing the mist guardian with them.
Aina suspected Mukuro Rokudo; however, the girl who revealed herself as Chrome Dokuro. During the match, Mukuro did show up and over powered Mammon who was revealed as an Arcobaleno. He had very little to say before he faded away, using too much of his powers as Chrome returned. Exhausted she was, sleeping and Rei said he'd stay until he woke up. Hibari found out Aina was going to all the ring matches. Before she came to his match, he decided to tell her one thing; don't come. He didn't want her to watch his match, and she only comes at the end of his match to congratulate him on it. Hopefully Aina learns a few moves from the Guardians. She's certainly growing mentally! Till next time, Ja-nee! x3