My Beloved Sky
Disclaimer: I own nothing from KHR except the plot of this fan fiction.
Warnings: Dark themes, Self-harm (mostly cutting), General depression, and Implied suicide attempts. Unbeta'ed!
Chapter 6: The Sky's Aloof Cloud Part 2
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"Not everyone is healthy enough to have a front row seat in our lives. There are some people in your life that need to be loved from a distance. It's amazing what you can accomplish when you let go of or at least minimize your time with draining, negative, incompatible, not going-anywhere relationships. Observe the relationships around you. Pay attention."
-Unknown-
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Few hours ago…
Tsuna sigh tiredly.
Alas, it was finally over. Dealing with his brother's wrath is something he would like to avoid at all cost simply because it was troublesome to deal with and if it will lead to his untimely death, No matter how much he find the entire charade amusing. It won't change the fact he still value his life although it was just a plain impulse and he consider his life important comparable to a jelly bean.
With the last glance at his brother and guardians, taking note if they were wounded while they are caught in the crossfire and seeing that none of them are that badly hurt with the exception of Giotto with minor cuts and bruises, not life-threatening. He moved his gaze at his left side. He doesn't need to check upon Rick Owen's well-being as no matter how cold hearted he is. He wasn't an evil person. He won't kill a person needlessly and without a good reason but he will punish them accordingly at what he thought they deserves as the retribution for their crimes and sins.
"I'm glad you came to joined us today… I really thought I was goner there." Tsuna smiled at the figure hiding his presence before him in the dark corner of the woods. Even there was no visible form of a person or shadow can be seen neither sound can be heard. But he can't be wronged because he only known one person quite well to fill up the blanks of that strong aura although it was concealed with a great effort.
There was no response but Tsuna waited patiently for the other to make his/her movement and response.
The brunet can feel the disdain and obvious annoyance of his secret company who is adamant at hiding for a moment.
With a huff, the figure slowly come out from his sanctuary, only to be revealed as on other than the demon prefect of Namimori, Hibari Kyoya.
"Don't assume things. I didn't come here to help you from anything, Omnivore." Hibari scoffed. 'And, I'm certain you can finish this mess alone just fine.' He didn't added but his eyes conveyed the unspoken message and he can see the amusement twinkling in those dull brown orbs as it brighten a bit with underlying mirth.
"I came here to bite a certain bastard to death." Eyes burning with disdain and disgust as he pointed where Rick Owen's body crumpled.
"You can try to bite him to death but I guess it will be meaningless as the others did a number of things on him and besides he won't be able to respond properly at your advances of discipline as I already give him the punishment he deserves." The amusement and mirth completely vanishes from his eyes as it immediate turn into cold and distant yet sharper when he spoken seriously about that.
A tense silence erupted between the two of them as soon as those words escaped at the brunet's lips.
Hibari's eyes widened a bit at his statement before his expression turning back to its usual stoic and aloof expression as he momentarily remember the incident he watch Tsuna struck down his enemies in the past ruthlessly without any remorse of his bloody and cruelest actions.
Tsuna was about to speak again but Hibari made an abrupt movement by carrying the unconscious form of his brother at his shoulder like a sack of potatoes. "They're crowding." Hibari simply said as he started walking away straight back to the mansion. Despite the calm exterior, Hibari's mind was reeling with turmoil and that Sawada Tsunayoshi did something foolish once again.
He was not stupid nor blind just like he stated in the past. He always pay attention to his surroundings and people especially if it was concerning the omnivore named 'Sawada Tsunayoshi'. Due to his sharp eyes and strong scent of smell – he knows the other was wounded by the red spots and coppery scent in the air; not because of the conflict transpired in the battlefield but because of self-harm.
That's right. The omnivore become an herbivore again.
By cutting and hurting himself once again.
It took a great effort to remain impassive of the situation although he wanted no more than to confront the latter but this wasn't the best place to deal with that. Not when they are being surrounded of people will possibly intervene in their confrontation and conversation.
Hibari takes a deep breath to calm his raging emotion and he decided…
He will confront the brunet once they are totally alone by themselves and so he took the path towards the mansion.
"Thank you, Kyoya." Tsuna muttered and he was certain that the other had heard him as he grunted in response. He was truly grateful that Hibari didn't question him any further because he don't want to continue this conversation any longer as it left a bitter taste in his part.
With that last thoughts he followed the demon prefect carrying the others who had collapsed with the powerful and destructive collision of flames.
What he didn't know his cloud guardian has something store for him once they reach their destination.
As soon as they stepped inside the mansion. The maids, butlers and some guards' rushes toward their aid, fussing over their respected masters. Checking over them for any possible injuries and let out a sigh of relief knowing they are merely asleep and unharmed.
Once they are done taking note of the well-being of their bosses, they whirled their attention to Tsuna and Hibari to check them if they needed any help and before they can ask a thing. Hibari cut them in short.
"We are fine." Came the short clipped respond from Hibari as he started to turn at a different direction, dragging Tsuna along with him.
The others didn't bother stopping them as they felt wary of the young aloof cloud for they can sense how furious he was. Not wanting to get involve at his wrath especially knowing what capabilities he possessed; they let them have their own way.
"Kyoya! Let go off me now!" Tsuna wasn't blind nor stupid once Hibari began to drag him away from the rest. He immediately know something set off the cloud guardian upon gazing at his stony silver-blue eyes that become sharper and darker at the present time although he have no idea it was him who enraged the demon prefect.
Hibari was beyond pissed. No, it was more. He was downright furious.
He ignored completely the boy's demand as his main focus in time was to find a better place where he can confront the other and shove some sense for his foolishness at his thick headed skull.
Despite Hibari's obvious temper, he was careful with his grasp at the latter's wrist fearing he might reopen it once again and worse get infected. And so, he was holding him gently like a fragile glass which is kind of true as the brunet at his hold was already like a fragile albeit broken and a little more push he would definitely shatter into pieces and he can't let that to happen.
Leading him to begrudgingly remember his affection for the younger boy that he tried to buried into forgetfulness.
"KYOYA!"
That all it takes to make all is bottled emotions to snap into the open environment.
Hibari grits his teeth and gently yet not too much, pulled Tsuna into some random room and slammed him at the nearest wall with enough force to make the brunet's breath hitch.
"Why."
'Why did you cut again? Why did you keep hurting yourself further?' Was the unspoken and the next possible lines in that one question.
Tsuna's eyes widened a bit upon hearing those simple word. But, it immediately morphed into a knowing exasperation then back to being devoid of emotions.
He can feel the way Hibari's quivering at his hold at him, as if he was a fragile diamond that would break with too much pressure put it. And, yes he was. For Hibari that is but never to him as he was far from broken ever since long time ago. You can't break the thing that was already broken. He was beyond any repair.
All he can remember was the harsh and violent treatment he receive from his environment. Most especially from his own parents. He was very immune at being held with maltreatment and callous manner. Well, the key word was 'used to it' and so, he slowly but surely forget how to be treated with such gentleness and kindness. He must admit; never didn't he expected Hibari will be the first person to show him such thing as the latter was known to be blood-volatile person, whom wanted nothing to deal with herbivores(like him) as they are just flies needed to ignored and unworthy of his attention.
And he can't helped but to question everything… About the aloof cloud guardian strange behavior at the moment.
Why does he hold me so gently?
Can't he see that I'm already broken?
So why bother?
Feeling than seeing Hibari grits his teeth tightly with frustration. Eyes boring to his own unseeing one with unmasked concern and frustration for him not able to do anything at making the situation into his favor. He was completely open now, showing his herbivore-side towards him. Which the latte will flat-out deny later on once he totally calmed down from heighted emotions.
Why are you showing me your real self?
Can't you see what kind of pathetic creature I am? How worthless I become?
So why bother paying attention to me?
I am never worth it…
And never will I be…
So, please. Don't concern yourself at a lowly being such as myself anymore.
He was well aware. There's more than not wanting the older teen to blend in his life deeper than he is now. Not because of how he see himself and other stuff like him, being a hindrance at the guy. It was crystal clear. There are other reason but it will be only his own knowledge, secret and curse. Tsuna will not let anyone know about it. As he made up his mind long time ago, that he will bring it with his grave before the others can have any knowledge of it.
A voice from not so far, put halt into his entire musings.
"Tsuna."
Tsuna blinked for a moment. It seems like he was becoming delusional as well for Hibari just called him in his name, not herbivore or omnivore. And when he finally decided it was him mishearing things and being delusional. Those were all set a side when Hibari do in fact called his name. More likely suggested nick name.
"Tsuna…"
Wow, Hibari was full of surprises today. He was even calling him the way he suggested but the other flat-out refused the whole name-suggesting before. As it was simply a ridiculous idea for the violent skylark.
Is the person before him was the real Hibari, not some imposter or duplicate?
It seems Hibari manage to read his thoughts as the demon prefect growls at him. A warning. A very clear one.
"Omnivore…" It was the start, a sign he was beginning to feel annoyed not of the situation but him alone.
And the poor boy can't helped but to laugh at him straight in the face. He wasn't any bother by the fact he was laughing in front of the Hibari Kyoya and being killed at him. When all of people dare do such stupidity, a mistake; none have return unscathed from the wrath of the demon. But not him, he will never fear him as he know the other won't do anything to hurt him.
The waves of killing intent was increasing and so his laughter.
"Shut up!"
Whoa. Hibari's face was red as tomato from embarrassment or anger. Maybe it was a mixture of both. Either way, Tsuna piped down a little as Hibari looks like he was really going to murder him if he continues any further from laughing his ass out before him.
"Ah, sorry. Didn't mean to laugh in front of you. It just that I find it funny hearing you call my name like that. It sounds so strange." Yup, he doesn't look nor sound any apologetic at all which fuel more of the other's irritation.
Hibari scowled at him while glaring holes in his form. Still clearly angry at being laughed for no reason.
"You haven't answered me at all. Omnivore"
He thought he have a chance to avoid these topic and so, he tried to distract him a little but it looks like Hibari was having none of it.
"You are serious about this aren't you?"
Hibari didn't give any response as he kept on staring him with those steely lilac orbs of his filled with conviction and hidden gentleness. It was all open for him to read. Only to him.
His smiling face dropped, turning to akin seriousness and yet, his emotions are guarded making the older teen struggled to find out more of him.
"I can only give you one answer and that is one word. Once I have reveal that, I won't entertain any further question at these point."
"Stop running away"
"I'm not running away nor I'm hiding, Kyoya. I never have."
"Liar."
"Yes, I'm liar but it doesn't mean I lied all the time."
"You are."
Hibari's statement stung because it was the truth, simple as that. Almost his entire he lives in a façade and lies and now, he doesn't know what's truth from lie anymore about himself. Although he can't control but to feel obliged to entertain him a little.
Tsuna's eyes softened a bit. He can see how much Hibari cares for him but he shouldn't because he have no idea what kind of trouble he was getting into upon trying to embedded himself deeper at his personal affairs.
The tension in the room spreads as it grows more with Tsuna's silence. Better lack of respond.
And then, he smiled at Hibari which seemingly genuine. His form radiating with happiness and gratefulness but the latter knew better, it was fake. As the smile doesn't reach his eyes. The eyes are window of the soul. There you will see the truth and lies the other make. Although the gratefulness was truth but never did happiness as it will take some time for the brunet to learn to be happy truthfully.
"You are right once again." The brunet started. "You are the only person who can read me like I'm an open book. Perhaps, it was my fault as well. As I let my guard down when I'm with you."
Hibari was quick to give him an incredulous look, translating: "Seriously? I don't believe you." Or "I doubt it." Whatever it is. It was enough to make the brunet chuckle under his breath. Trust, Hibari to lighten up the mood as he was surely a funny person.
Seeing the grump expression of the other as it seems he can follow where his thoughts are heading to. He can't helped but to smile despite the situation. Albeit there's still tension. It wasn't heavy as before.
"See? Told you so. It's the true. I'm letting my guard down whenever I'm around with you even it was a little. It seems like my subconscious trusted you when clearly I shouldn't trust anyone due to past experience. Can't helped it, I'm a human after all. You have told me that before and I'm really grateful for you not seeing me such a monster or trash. It truly helps a lot on my part."
Hibari huffed but doesn't let go of him instead he tighten his hold at the brunet, glaring at him, suspiciously. "Why it feels like you saying 'goodbye and thank you' now? Are you planning do something stupid? And don't you dare change the topic again. I won't let you escape that easily."
"That is none of your business, Kyoya." Came the icy reply. It was like the skylark had touch a sensitive subject and hits a bull's eye.
The tension is back with full force. The atmosphere is suffocating. It was very thick and a knife cannot even cut it despite it sharpness.
"Although let me entertain you to show my gratitude. I'll answer two of your questions but it will be only words. So figure out the rest. First, of your question is why do I keep cutting? Simple, it was my 'addiction'. And second, more likely the last of your question is am I planning to do something stupid? The answer is 'No and Carpe Diem.'"
The tension remains. Hibari stared at him impassively and Tsuna thought he will banter him more of questions or should he say forcing out answer at his vague statement.
What he didn't expect was the skylark to smirk, eyes glinting dangerously before capturing his lips which shock the daylight out of him.
He was in shocked and paralyzed at the surprise attack.
Even Hibari pulled back. The poor boy can't form any proper words, as it all coming out stutters and his mind totally shut down.
Hibari looked surprisingly pleased and amused. "You have answered mine. And now, let me answer yours. 'You will be mine.' Figure out the rest for yourself." With that smug and superiority around him. Hibari strode out the room. Leaving a shell shock and confused brunet, slumping down in the ground with silent defeat.
Did Hibari just kissed him and confessed about his feeling for him?
A double 'yes'.
Trust, Hibari to make his life more conflicted.
Damn. All depressing and dark thoughts suddenly disappears as an upcoming headache strikes him down.
And his wanting to cut completely forgotten at the moment as his mind only keep playing about Hibari.
How he could not think about him when the boy flat out says: 'I'll make you fall in love with me. Just wait and see. I'll become your addiction and when that time comes, you'll forget everything including cutting. I'll make sure of that'. In a different language and he finds it extremely down right unsettling, having Hibari court him. Because courting in Hibari's language is bloodshed and hell.
At that crucial moment, he prays that Hibari is joking about it but the skylark never jokes and he will later force to face reality later in that week.
After all no one ever escaped Hibari Kyoya's attention and clutches.
His conversation with Tsuna seems take some time as when he return back to where are the others resting, they are all wide awake and they did look quite shock upon seeing him at the same place as them at the same time when he obviously stated in the past he doesn't want to get involved with any of them and that includes Hibari's older brother, Alaude.
That's the reason they are staring him questioningly and oddly as if he grown two heads. They are all curious why he was there with them at the very first time albeit willingly that is. But held all the questions they wished to ask him once their leader finally wake up and let him do all the interrogating as they truly felt uncomfortable starting a conversation with the young skylark and begrudgingly Alaude admits he doesn't know to approach his very own blood-related brother. It was absurd and shameful when he take pride he can waltz at anyone's life but never his younger brother. For they have no bound to be called, no connection. They may have been a family and sibling – but they are nothing more than strangers to each other so in the end it doesn't hold meaning at all. Truly an aloof cloud.
The gap is simply big and distance are unreachable and all it can hope someday it will open up and become reachable again.
Hibari can't help but to scoffed inwardly at their lame expression and obvious distress towards him. It was a pathetic sight. Then, he realized something Giotto wasn't still with them which means the latter is still unconscious in his own room or he was awake as them but refuses to go out because he felt ashamed hurting and fighting his own brother whom he sworn to protect only to break that promise in a day or so.
"Is Giotto still unconscious?"
At first no one answered his question and he was starting to berate why he was here in the first place with these idiots. Ah, that's right. He was here because he feel that Sawada Tsunayoshi causing some trouble again and his instinct was never been wrong ever since. For he have an instinct of a hunter and his top prey was the omnivore. Though he came here with other purpose and that is to have a conversation with Giotto and his guardians. He needed to talk with them about Tsuna's case before the brunet do something stupid once more.
"Is Giotto still unconscious?" He repeated his question again and thank goodness someone finally snapped in their stupor as they finally answered because if they continue these charade he might ended up massacring the entire mansion which he didn't mind at all. It's a thrilling idea.
"Yes, Giotto is still unconscious." The person answered him was Alaude, surprisingly.
"Is that so? Then, are you heading at his room now. Can you lead me to him? I need to have a chat with him and Of course, your presence are all necessary." Hibari watched their expression in the corner of his eyes, changing into neutral to shock once again. They are gawking at him and it reminded him of a fish. Hibari manage to catch their thoughts because their expression was enough to convey everything what's running inside their heads. The demon prefect got more annoyed knowing he has some relation with these bunch of simple minded fools.
"Did you just – "
Hibari must end these entire charade or else they won't be done at all.
"Where is Giotto? Just like I said, I need to talk with him." He reminded them, seriously.
There something in his voice make the others come back from reality and gazing at him with akin seriousness and expectation.
"Is this about Tsuna?"
"Yes, it's about him."
They arched their eyebrow at him. Hibari isolate himself from the others. He was what you called 'apathetic' and there was only a few that caught his attention which the chances were rare to come. And yet, here he was now showing his interest and concern for an ordinary, scrawny brat who looks weak and pathetic at first glance which he will never pay attention in the past but Hibari was doing the exact opposite at the current moment. Sawada Tsunayoshi is just your average albeit broken boy, nothing out of ordinary and yet, he caught the attention of one the most dangerous and aloof person in the face of the earth. But is he really just an average boy or he was something more? Only time will answer their unanswered question.
Wordlessly, they motioned Hibari to follow them as they silent lead him where Giotto currently staying in the meantime as the arrangement of their room wasn't done as they were busy fussing over Tsuna and Rick Owens incident.
They have stopped in front of a room nearing at the end of the hall, a room isolating the rest but connected at some parts of the household.
"Is this his room?"
They nodded silently at his inquiry as they moved out the way to let the young cloud guardian step inside the room and he did without second thought.
As soon as he stepped forward, he immediately spotted a bed; there lies the unconscious form of Vongola Primo, Giotto and Tsunayoshi's older brother. He was vaguely aware of the sound of door shutting close and the guardians finding a comfortable place to settle in. The demon prefect observes Giotto like a hawk, waiting for the right moment to strike its prey. He saw all the distress written at the young don's expressive face and hear his labor breathing as if he was having some bad dream while muttering something under his breath which they can't catch as his words are all jumble and low for them to understand.
Hibari could more feel than see that rest are itching to go off beside their boss side and wake him up from whatever phantom he was facing at the moment but decided to go against it, knowing he can deal with it just fine but it doesn't mean they are not worried for him (with the exception of Daemon and Alaude for the duo are downright stubborn to admit of such trivial thing just like him).
Suddenly, Giotto eyes snapped open and sat upright, eyes unfocused practically searching for something, no, it was someone and it's obvious the blonde haired idiot trying to find Sawada Tsunayoshi at the first time he open his eyes maybe because of feeling guilt at losing control and almost hurting the brunet which made the demon prefect snort inwardly as the omnivore was far from being an ordinary, weak-looking civilian.
He noticed that none of the guardian hadn't spoken or called Giotto's attention probably waiting for him to make the first move to have Primo's full attention as it was clear as the sky they wished to know what he wanted to speak with Giotto concerning the brunet.
Upon seeing that Giotto was about to marched out in the bed with the intent of seeking comfort at seeing the brunet in flesh. Hibari decided it's time to intervene. He needed the carnivore to stay not go away. Now is the perfect time to add details about the things they might need to know about the little sky.
"Sawada Tsunayoshi is fine, Carnivore."
His voice put abruptly halt all the movements of the blonde as he slowly turned his head at his direction where he heard him speak and his eyes widened in shock upon seeing him in flesh, standing not in far of him; obviously having the same reaction and the thought just like the others upon seeing him in the first time for three years of no communication or what so ever.
"…Hibari Kyoya…?"
Hibari arched an eyebrow. "Who do you expect to see? The damn pineapple herbivore?" Damn, Tsuna's rubbing him off because of his sarcasm.
"Um-No, Ah?"
"Stop stuttering, it's very annoying sight." Hibari snarls at him.
"Ah, sorry. I just didn't expect you to see here standing in all glory." Giotto apologizes sheepishly and he glances at his guardians inside the room, scrutinizing their forms at any sign of injuries and was relieve to see they are none. And, silently acknowledging their presence as it truly helps a lot to calm his senses down because having Alaude and Hibari in the same room is nerve-wrecking despite being used at his own cloud guardian's aura and antics. "So, how are you and what brings you here?"
"Fine and Omnivore." Came the clipped response.
"I'm glad you are fine. But you need to be specific who is this omnivore you –"
"Sawada Tsunayoshi is Omnivore."
"Oh?" Was the unintelligent reply Giotto can only muster at the moment. "Why call him an Omnivore? Tsunayoshi is just an ordinary –"
"Are you certain of that? That he is merely just an ordinary, teenage civilian albeit a broken one?" Once again, Hibari cuts him in short. "Because I don't see him as one."
"What do you mean about that?" Giotto asked a little bit sharply, eyes narrowing into slits with suspicion. "You know something that we don't which obvious. But, Kyoya before we head our conversation there. Let me ask you this, how did you notice Tsunayoshi when you made it clear you don't want to get involve with a bunch of herbvivores and I'm certain he is part of it? So, why and how?"
Hibari almost laugh at the irony of the situation as it seems the past history only repeating again. He held the exact questions before and the brunet even confront him about the same thing although it can't be help to be questioned due to his nature.
"I can't believe you are asking me for something stupid but let me enlighten you, How did I notice Sawada Tsunayoshi? Simple, I pay attention and look harder." Hibari's eyes glittering with amusement with a tint of controlled disdain and storm of rage almost at its peak. He could clearly see the way they flinch at his reply but Hibari was far from being finish. "That's right, I let my eyes roam and look deeper to see the whole picture behind the pleasantry of façade your family and Tsuna built for years. I manage to penetrate through the steel walls and unravel the white lies, dirty and dark secrets your parents have been hiding at the entire time; their sweet pitch black crime filled with innocent blood of Sawada Tsunayoshi in the palm of their very hands. Don't give that surprise looks, I'm totally aware your so called pathetic herbivore parents abusing your beloved brother and don't you dare accuse me for not helping and doing anything. I tried my very best to minimize the damage your family inflicting at the omnivore while hoping his own blood related brother would notice the obvious sign of maltreatment the Sawadas giving him but you never did because you are too fucking focus on avoiding him for your pathetic excuse of 'I love my own brother in not sibling should have and so I must stay away because I'm hurting him'. Well, congrats you make his life a living hell for not paying attention, pushing him away when he was giving a subtle hints of asking help and leaving him by those bastard, lowly family of yours."
"But when I was about to make a move your parents intervene and so, I waited to confront him and help in the way I only can do but that brother of yours is a monster in disguise, he defeat me without a sweat and told me not to get involve. That was the last words I heard of him before he disappears without a trace with the excuse of your parents transferring him into a better school which I believe you already know. But, I never give up in tracking him down and imagine my surprise when one day, he shown up in front of disciplinary committee asking for an assistance willing in exchange of admitting his parents crimes and other information with a bonus that I'll used that to put them inside the cold cellars. He was desperate in that time so he blinded agreed at all transaction which I'm certain he had forgotten about due to his eagerness to finish the mess your parents left for him to deal with. Yes, this mess were talking about Rick Owens here. He holds the transaction of human trafficking and Tsuna asked me to assist him on freeing the prisoners and since the bastard breaking a law, I agreed but as you see, all the benefits are mine in the end of bargain. When I arrived along with my men what we witness there is something we won't forget for the rest of our lives. Sawada Tsunayoshi standing in the middle of chaos and bloodshed, unscathed with more than a thousand surrounding him alive but not. I tried asking him what he had done but he refused to give me an answer saying it was none of my business and I didn't pry anymore to it."
"After that incident, I brought him to my place and he stayed there for some time, Of course, there was need of adjustment for his part and mine but we managed somehow but it was peaceful because the past always hunt Tsuna and his means of escaping, relieving those dark and negative thoughts are self-harm in a form of cutting and various type of self-inflicting pain and starvation. That was his addiction, his ambrosia which caused a lot of arguments and fighting between us, me, trying to stopped his bad habits and always leaving me blooded with I begrudgingly admit I was defeat in the entire time when I challenge him but at least I manage to lessen his cravings even though I didn't completely stopped him from doing until now. The only person who could change his mind and managed to persuade is always 'her'. She's only the person ever the omnivore have listened to and have stopped him from his suicidal attempts or thoughts, only 'her'."
"As you already knows, nothing last forever. Tsuna and I parted ways. Not so long of our separation, the news about the accident and sudden of your lowly parents spreads and for some reason I have a feeling that the omnivore have something to do with it not I'm saying he was the one get them killed but sensation of something is off in the entire incident won't die down. Nevertheless, that leads you guys here and me now. So let me ask you again, Are you certain that your dear brother is just a mere civilian?"
Never did Hibari have thought there will be a day he will speak that long without a pause neither expecting he will eventually lose his entire composure lashing out in them but upon seeing their reaction was satisfying his secret message have successfully delivered.
Giotto and the others reaction are all the same, first into surprise because never they heard Hibari talk this much and cursed like a mad sailor before turning into shame and guilt. His words struck a nerve and it was obvious he did that on purpose to make them realize their mistake and stupidity back then.
It took some time for them to process the entire thing and his repeated question.
"No, I don't think so too but it doesn't mean he needs help." Giotto mumbled softly. "I know it's part of my fault he was suffering now and saying sorry won't do anything at all nor change the past so, I'll just do whatever I can to bring him back to his own feet no matter how much hard it is and long." Determination lit up his usual azure eyes molting into bright orange hues and the others agreed whole heartedly in the background. Then he blinked as he remembers something. "I'm already certain that Tsunayoshi is already aware of Mafia's existence at the end of your story and he only added the confirmation when he speak about my hyper intuition. But, there is some things I would like to know like what made you come into conclusion that Tsunayoshi was involved with the incident of our blasted parents death not that I'm complaining or anything just curious? And most especially who's 'her'? "
Before Hibari could answer someone dare to interrupt their conversation which irked the demon prefect by barging inside the room without permission but upon seeing their frantic and disheveled appearance he knows something happened and they are not going to like it even a bit.
"What's the matter?"
"I'm sorry for barging in with your permission, Primo! But your younger brother was found unconscious in the dining hall and he was breathing but his heart stopped beating! We tried everything but nothing helps! We don't know what do anymore!"
"Where is he? Is he still in the dining hall?!"
"Yes, he is. We don't move his body fearing it might make things worse."
Without a second thought all of them rushed where the brunet supposed was and they instantly spotted the familiar mopped of brown hair sprawled in the floor motionlessly, pale as sheet being surrounded by their men while trying to help him.
All of them went rigid as if a cold ice was poured in them at the sight of helpless and limp form of the boy. They are beyond scared to make a move only to find he was gone which they don't want to think at all.
"Tsunayoshi!" Giotto was the first one to react and dashed at the brunet side as he checked his temperature, he almost cringed at the cold. He was so cold, colder than ice but his hand remain as he check the vital signs and he find none which make him more frantic and weary then his heart beat which also is not present though he was breathing and it labor, he was having a hard time to breath.
Dread is already spreading to his system though he never show it because if he did everyone will panic and that's not good, he look at his side where Knuckle already beside him who started examining the brunet's state; he was hoping the priest know what's wrong with his brother but upon seeing the grim expression and irritation and disappointed look of his friend. He understood, he have no slightest clue what is happening through the teen without saying anything. Knuckle can't do anything to help his brother.
"Call, Shamal and Reborn now! I don't care fucking care if they are in a mission or if they are at the other side of continent, CONTANCT THEM AND BRING THEM HERE NOW! IT'S EMERGENCY! CODE RED! I GODDAMMIT NEED THEM NOW!"
Please, hold on. This time, I'll – No, We'll definitely save you so please, stay with me!
Tsuna was done brooding about the dreadful interaction (confession) of Hibari Kyoya and now, he was walking aimlessly at the mansion when all of a sudden, he abruptly stop all his movement as he felt an excruciating pain at his chest as if his soul being robbed off inside his body then he let a mirthless and bitter chuckle escaped his lips as knees finally gave out, his breath becoming erratic and short.
He forgotten to say another thing to Kyoya but maybe it's for the best because ignorance is a bliss after all.
Dark spots starting to cloud his vision and these was also one of the reminder or reason he must let them to stay away from him because being with him only brings grief and despair.
His last thoughts was remembrance of the word: 'Memento Mori'
That's right his time was numbered but at the same time it was frozen by duty although it won't change the fact he will leave them in the end.
Somewhere at the wilderness of Amazon, Brazil…
Inside the dark corner of the woods of forest was a man taking a refuge under a big and old tree while hiding at the same time against his foes.
He grits his teeth with obvious annoyance and rage. There's a traitor inside the organization and worse of all, he/she was free is selling information at some nameless opposing famiglia. Just great. Though he can't believe he let his guard down and let a faceless assassin hit him with its bullet. Not just an ordinary bullet, the bullet was specialized with neutralizing the flames of the holder for them not be able of using him and there's a poison paralyzing the person been caught by it.
He never felt so shameful and his pride as the greatest hitman in the world went crumbling down because of a simple mistake and measly bullet. But like hell, he would let them win against him without a fight if he will ever go down here then he will bring them with him. The keyword is just 'if'. There's no certainty they will manage to kill him after all he wasn't the greatest for nothing. He won't let them wound his pride.
Then he sense an approaching enemy, not just one but more than twenty and he let out a curse under his breath as his body won't listen to any orders his mind command, he can't move a single a muscle. Fucking Fantastic. The poison finally takes it full effect and his flames can't counter it due to the special bullet.
"He is around here! Search thoroughly! With that poison he won't get far!"
"Damn it." He cursed under his breath and shut his eyes. Refusing to admit defeat he won't die here not until he make the lives of both Sawadas a living hell after all he haven't avenge Tsuna from their wrong doings. He can't let them kill here not now!
He was losing his composure and he can't let that goes on. He must calm down. He regulates his breathing and let his mind at ease for a few seconds. Clearly aware if he lose his control, he would ended the dead here.
Finally calming himself enough, the raven opened his eyes again, found himself staring on the edge of a field with flowers. It was night, the moon full riding high in the sky but he find something strange as the moon wasn't only in the sky, the round planet of earth was there as well. The ever blue world.
"What the..?" Reborn muttered confusedly, carefully inspecting his vicinity for the first time.
Where the hell is he?
The place doesn't look like an illusion but can't fathom the sudden change of scenery. Delusion? No, the poison in his veins doesn't works that way so he was perfectly in his right mind at the moment. Or did he simply fell asleep? Impossible. He won't fall asleep in crucial moments especially when he was on a battlefield, fighting for his life. No matter how much tired he was, he would never get the rest he wanted for he was trained to be awake almost 24/7. Then his thought about teleportation, not happening. Shoichi isn't with him nor Byakuran and that object was still incomplete and banned by Primo at the fear of thwarting time and the future is not a very pleasant idea.
And the hitman can't help put let a stupid thought cross his mind. That a faceless rookie of a nameless famiglia managed to get him killed without knowing and he was in shock that he was dead. Then, here was now, standing in the afterlife.
Reborn shook his head trying to erase the ridiculous thought. Not in a million years someone with less experience can get him killed but then his expression turn grim at the remembrance of his recklessness earlier in that day. Damn, he was going insane and losing his sense of touch.
His musing was interrupted by a small and low snickers, it was a laugh of child by the sound of it and he let out a sneer some dare to laugh at his very presence. No ever make fun of him. No one except from his close acquaintance which took some time and long patience in order for him not to shoot them straight in the head at such annoying act and embarrassing motion.
He return his gazed into the meadow, curious as to where he was and how he got there but most especially to find the culprit behind the muffled laughter. He noticed a movement towards the center of the sea of white petals. Slowly, he approached it and shocked at what he saw. He was right, it was child who is giggling in pit but what shock him was when the light of the moon bestow at the nameless figure and the child turn his back to finally meet his gaze. It was Tsuna. The younger one, around age five or so.
Tsuna was sitting surrounded by flowers, wearing a white hakama that glimmered in the moonlight. He looked so innocent, ethereal and glowing with unworldly aura. The air around him surging with power, unlimited one that make his entire being agitated and excited at the same time at the raw display of intensity.
The laughter died down as the shaking form of the child Tsuna subdue.
"Tsuna…" Reborn called to him softly despite the latter is looking straight in his eyes with conceal mirth and longing. He was still shock upon seeing him here. Maybe he was dreaming because he missed the brunet's presence and he was thinking of him or was delusional already?
As if hearing his unanswered question, the boy finally speak after a long staring contest. The mirth apparently haven't died down. "You are not dead yet, neither you are dreaming nor delusional, Papa."
"Then, what is this? Where is this place and why are you in that form? I'm certain you are a teenager now not some snotty five year old brat."
"That is something I can't tell you, Papa." The mirth finally disappears only to change into akin something longing and sadness. "But, I was shock and happy at the same time you have found this place. A bit too soon, though. But, it doesn't matter because you will forget this encounter in the end."
"What do you mean about that?"
"Just like I said, I'm truly happy to see you again. Papa. Even a moment. It seems fate has a different plan for me. It doesn't want to end that way. How amusing when they can't even do a thing about me after all no one can goes against the XXXXXXX even its fate nor the world. Maybe that's the reason you are here now. You may not my blood related father but you show me the way a parent should care and guide their child with your own way of expressing of parental love, I'm glad I have met you and you let me become your son. It was one of my happiest moment." The child Tsuna smiled warmly, his form radiating with genuine happiness and gratefulness.
"Why," He asked, voice equally soft tinting with a sharp edge of dangerous tone. "Are you talking like you're going to die soon?"
Tsuna didn't bat an eye and without moving he was already in front of Reborn. That hitman can feel his breath as the latter was hovering in the air. "Perhaps you people can change the two future set in stone."
"What are you talking about? Answer me! Damn it! Tsuna!" Reborn was confused. He knows the person in front of him was the real Tsuna but his talking doesn't make any sense at all which add to his confusion and irritation most of all he was scared at how the brunet speak, it feels like he was inspecting something to happen –No, anticipating his own death, like something is bad to happen which the raven refused to believe in even his gut telling him it was the truth.
Tsuna still smiles warmly at Reborn, his eyes were changing colors into different colors; the colors of rainbow and it was shimmering with tears. With a small amount of happiness and appreciation but it was mostly filled sadness, guilt, regret, longing and hope. He cupped Reborn cheeks softly with the both of his two small hands and his hands was so cold. "Can you do me a favor, Papa? Stop him, help him and save him before it's too late…"
Save who and from what?
Before he can open to say something images flashes before his very eyes:
A clear warning, a premonition.
"It seems like I came a bit late…" Someone said in the background, staring at where he/she should have found the graves of Sawada Nana and Sawada Iemitsu only to arrive to see an empty and destroyed resting place, the casket where the bodies of both Sawada couple are nowhere at the sight.
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.
Tsuna was glancing at the starless sky, standing at the edge of cliff while holding a gun with unreadable expression and the others calling for him to come back, to stop at whatever he was planning on doing, he turned to them with apologetic smile that was filled with longing. "Do you that there was two future set in stone at our timeline and both of them filled with despair, no hope at all? It was so sad whenever I recall it." He pause then pointed the gun in his head. "But now, we can change the future! I'm sorry, until we meet again…" Then he pulled the trigger, red spluttered the entire area, like a flower being blown by the wind and his form falls the cliff. Giotto's anguish call was the loudest as he tried to reach his brother's hand but it's already too late, he had fallen in the abyss of the wide sea and they never have found his body after that.
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.
.
"But… I still exist…"
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"I can't let you pass… I won't let you guys reach him… Just give up, you don't stand a chance." A pitched black with engraving of roses, blocks their way towards their beloved. What shock them was the person trying to stop them reaching at the end of the door. It was no other than Miura Haru alongside with Kyoko and Hana.
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"There's much crueler fate and darker than the Tri-ni-set, A world none of you was supposed to be aware of, but because of his Will. He had met you and almost get destroyed everything even he was our master doesn't mean we agree to his wish everything. That's why your journey ends here. We will never let you see him again nor tainted his mind. He doesn't need you people. All he needs is us."Came the cold reply of Hana and Kyoko as they continue to beat them one by one.
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"I don't want to fight you… and most especially, I don't want to kill you. Tsuna!"
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"You finally call me by my name, I'm happy..."
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"Noooo! Stop! Tsuna!"
…
"What…?" Reborn blinked owlishly, his mind still haze with the vision.
Tsuna kissed his temple tenderly as he let go off him and his form suddenly disappears in the thin air.
"Sleep, Papa… I'm sorry until we meet again…"
That was the last thing he heard before he totally succumb in the darkness and oblivion.
To Be Continued…
A/N: I'm sorry for the super late update. I know I post my update schedule and I didn't managed to fulfill them. But there's a reason, our house or rather my mom's house was burned down and which put me into wreck. I busied myself work because I don't want to think about it. It's kinda sad when your mom's ignoring you like it's your own fault. *sigh* enough of me, I do hope you enjoy reading this as I enjoy writing this chapter.
Hoho~ we haven't reach the climax yet but things are getting interesting. Lol. Please tell me your opinion and what you think about this chapter via comment and reviews. Votes and favs are also welcomed and appreciated.
Yes, Haru, Kyoko and Hana along with the rest are going to be the enemy here for a reason though.
And, I need your help!
What kind of flames and weapons do you think fits Kyoko and Hana and why? The best explanation will be chosen, Good luck!
Preview: The Sky's Upcoming Storm and The Darkening Sun
…"What do you mean? His body deteriorating from the inside and he has a year to live? Are you telling me that Tsuna's dying?!"