Hungry Tsuna
A Katekyo Hitman Reborn Fanfiction
Disclaimer: I do not own Katekyo Hitman Reborn, All rights reserved to Akira Amano.
Edited by Mithras151 on August 11. 2009
Chapter Fifteen: Tsuna the Irresistible
"Hibari-san." Tsuna frowned at the prefect. It was hard to stand his ground against someone so intimidating, but the brunette knew this was how Hibari worked. Through fear and force, Hibari could make anyone bow to his will. And though, in most cases, Tsuna would allow that to happen, the brunette could not allow it to happen this time. He had finally come to a decision as to how to handle the weird things that had been going on in his life, and he wasn't going to let Hibari rip it all into shreds. "You're being unreasonable."
"I don't care." The prefect replied indifferently.
"Why are you so against this?" Tsuna began, his hands clenched at his sides. Tsuna's warm brown eyes looking straight at the raven haired menace with a mixture of feelings swirling within him. He was angry that Hibari was stopping him, confused as to why the other was opposing his decision and lastly, frightened to stand up to a person who would bash his head in without a second thought. Tsuna then continued, not thinking about what was being said, but overpowered by the liberating feeling of getting his emotions off his chest. "Why does it matter that I'm going out with other people? Hibari-san, you say that I am your prey; you say it as if it means something, but I don't know what you mean. What am I to you, Hibari-san?"
The dark-haired disciplinarian was taken aback by the brunette's words. He had expected Tsuna to crumble under his wrath and give up. But, even from the beginning, the brunette had had a tendency to question his ways. It was that occasional fire in Tsuna that he liked the most. The prefect stared at the freshman blankly, unable to convey the reasons for his jealousy and his opposition to the brunette being with others. Hibari had always kept his feelings tightlipped and he wasn't ready to be open about anything, his feelings least of all.
It took Tsuna a few moments to realize what he had just uttered. His cheeks turned a deep shade of red, Tsuna realizing the intimate things he had asked the prefect. He was about to take back his words when he felt a familiar presence looming around them. Unconsciously, Tsuna stepped closer to Hibari, knowing that the other would protect him. In the same respect, the dark haired disciplinarian's fingers tighten on his tonfas upon realizing the identity of the intruder as well.
"Kufufu. You might as well hold your breath, Tsunayoshi-kun. He'll never admit it." Mukuro's voice echoed from the other side of the hall. The vibrations of the other's voice bouncing off the walls of the empty hallway was enough to send shivers down the brunette's spine and set Hibari's blood a boil.
"Mukuro?" Tsuna breathed, watching as the mischief maker walked up to them.
The illusionist offered with an "up to no good" grin. "I can answer that question for you, if you like."
The small boy raised an eyebrow. "You?"
The devilish delinquent grin grew wider but his mismatched eyes were trained on the irritated prefect behind Tsuna. He then responded very slowly. "After all, I do enjoy our little encounters, Tsunayoshi-kun."
"Well, I don't." The freshman said under his breath.
To Tsuna, Mukuro was no different from Hibari-san. However, the brunette was smart enough to never express his opinion in front of them, knowing the consequences of such a stupid action. Whatever it was, the concealed thoughts or the unspoken truths, neither of the pair had verbally voiced their feelings to the brunette. And to avoid expressing it, they just tried to manipulate the brunette into bending to their own wills. They both had different reasons for this masking of motives, but ultimately, the goal was the same. It was starting to turn into a tug of war, and he was the rope that each opponent pulled on. Tsuna was getting tired of it, especially since he was still unsure of his own feelings. What was he to Hibari and Mukuro? Tsuna frowned realizing that, perhaps, he didn't mean anything to them at all. Even thinking of that possibility made his heart ache.
"Leave." Hibari demanded.
Mukuro only shrugged his shoulders at the command. "Why? Don't like the competition?"
The sparks were flying and it was clear that a fight was bound to break out. In terms of self-preservation, Tsuna did not want to be anywhere near the two when it did happen. The freshman slowly began to inch away from the two, thinking that it would be a good time to leave.
"Oh no, Tsunayoshi-kun. You're not walking away from me this time." The illusionist said as he hooked an arm around the petite freshman's waist. With little effort, the midnight haired demon managed to drag the smaller boy back to him, pressing Tsuna's body against his.
"Eep!" Tsuna squeaked in shock.
Hibari stepped toward the pair and ordered. "Unhand the herbivore."
Mukuro's lecherous gaze shifted to the seething prefect. The illusionist enticed the prefect. "And if I don't?"
"I'll bite you to death." The dark haired upperclassman threatened, looking ready to tear the illusionist's head off.
"Come now, Hibari. We both know you're not capable of making good on your threat." Mukuro teased, but his taunting only aggravated the prefect even more. Although, it was fun to rile the other up, it would get Mukuro nowhere. The illusionist decided to focus on his main goal, instead of antagonizing Hibari, he could use him. The midnight haired delinquent's hands ran up from the brunette's waist and then gripped to the smaller boy's shoulder. Mukuro then lowered his head, close to Tsuna's cheek. He ignored the brunette's heated cheek and eyed the prefect with his heterochromatic gaze. "You want him as badly as I do? We can share him."
"What?!" Exclaimed Tsuna.
The illusionist couldn't help grinning at the brunette's comical response to his proposal. Mukuro began leveling with the prefect. "Listen, Hibari. It's not a bad deal. I don't ask for much. All I want is the leftovers. You can take the first bite."
Looking from Hibari to Mukuro, Tsuna realized that he was in a dangerous predicament. By the gleam of the enforcer's blue eyes, he knew that Mukuro's deal did interest Hibari. Although, Hibari maintained a perfect face of ennui, his eyes spoke for him. Within those blue depths, the brunette saw a frightening desire. Since Mukuro had uttered his offer, the prefect had not spoken a word. His lips pursed shut, contemplating what the illusionist laid out on the table for him. To Tsuna's mortification, it seemed as if the prefect was considering the illusionist's offer, and that was bad news for him. Tsuna knew that barely stood a chance against Mukuro and Hibari individually, but if they were to team up, he was done for. Before, Hibari could be further persuaded by the illusionist, Tsuna decided to speak up. "Hibari-san! He's just playing mind games!"
"Am I? Perhaps, Tsunayoshi would like the play with someone else." Mukuro mentioned, letting Tsuna know that he also knew about his plans with Yamamoto.
Finding that the tables were flipped, the brunette quickly replied, "No, that's not it."
It was the mere mention of the topic that unearthed Hibari's jealousy. The predator was able to wake himself out of Mukuro's disillusionment, the ignition of his fury being the mere thought of Tsuna crowding with others, beside him. The prefect charged toward the illusionist and Tsuna. In one quick flash, he managed to yank Tsuna from the midnight haired demon's grasp and place one of his steel tonfas at the Illusionist's throat. "I don't share Tsunayoshi with anyone. He's mine."
"Kufufu. You and that caveman's mentality, Hibari." Mukuro said as he jumped back quick enough to dodge Hibari's death blow. He smirked at the irate prefect. "I wasn't planning on sharing either."
"I'll bite you to death!" The prefect declared venomously as he rushed the illusionist.
"Why so aggressive?" Mukuro quickly blocked Hibari's swipe with his trident, which miraculously materialized itself into his hands. The prefect was pushing very hard against his weapon but the force of Hibari's attack didn't budge the dark haired delinquent. "Are you afraid that Tsunayoshi will be taken from you? Seems like he's shopping around for someone better. That Yamamoto Takeshi is probably a lot more fun than you are."
"Quiet!" Hibari hissed as he used his other tonfa to strike at Mukuro.
"Don't want to hear the truth?" Mukuro managed to dodge the weapon and spin the staff of his trident out of the lock. He then blocked another of the prefect's swipes with ease. "Could the fearless Hibari Kyouya really be that anxious?"
"Shut up!" Hibari ordered, his heart racing, mind blank, and eyes wide. His movements became even faster, performing a series of attacks upon the smirking illusionist. Unlike in the beginning of their fight, Mukuro was having difficulty keeping up the prefect's movements. Hibari's movements had been predictable, just a moment ago, but for some reason his movements were not as coordinated. Usually, when someone became angered, it placed a damper on their fighting ability. Anger clouded the mind and making one's decisions irrational. Yet, the fearsome predator thrived in battle the more irritated he became.
No matter his knowledge, Mukuro still kept up his defense, though it was becoming harder to evade the feral upperclassmen's onslaught. Out of nowhere an attack came from his right and he was unable to block it. Hibari's tonfa slammed into Mukuro's cheek. Both Tsuna and Mukuro were in shock that Hibari actually landed a hit.
"Mukuro!" Shouted Tsuna as he watched the illusionist receive the blow. He then quickly covered his mouth as Hibari sent an icy glare in his direction. The brunette didn't mean to anger Hibari, but he couldn't hide his concern for Mukuro.
Mukuro held his bruised cheek tenderly but despite the injury, he was still pretty satisfied by how things were unfolding. The illusionist smirked at Hibari, triumphantly and then shifted his gaze to the worried boy. "It's only a scratch, Tsunayoshi."
Hibari fumed. How could Tsuna call out that bastard's name?! He was going through so much trouble to protect the herbivore and he betrayed him so easily? Later, he would punish Tsuna for that outburst, but now he need to take care off the heterochromatic miscreant in front of him. "Rokudo Mukuro, back off or I'll kill you."
Mukuro raised an eyebrow at Hibari's threat. Usually, the prefect would say "bite", but since Hibari said "kill", Mukuro knew the other boy viewed him as dangerous. Hibari only used his trademark catchphrase when he was sure he would win and this departure from the phrase signified the prefect's uncertainty. Nonetheless, Mukuro brushed off the warning; he wasn't planning to back off anytime soon. "Like murder would give you some brownie points."
Hibari countered. "No, but I'll finally be rid of you."
"Am I that much in your way?" The midnight blue haired demon grinned as he began to back away. He served his purpose and, somehow, got what he came for. He carefully walked backwards watching to see if the prefect would try to attack him, but to his surprise Hibari stood his ground. His mismatched eyes shifted briefly to Tsuna. "Take care, Tsunayoshi."
After Mukuro's departure, the hallway became silent. For a while, Tsuna and Hibari did not speak a word and only stood in place. Tsuna wondered if Hibari was thinking about what Mukuro had said. The brunette began to consider those words as well. Was the prefect that concerned about losing him? Was he so important to the other that Hibari actually feared losing him? Tsuna was not one to think highly of himself, especially when it came to Hibari, but he wondered why going out with Yamamoto and Mukuro's taunting mattered to the older boy? Not being able to stand the awkward silence between them, the brunette opted to try to apologize for his actions.
"I must be giving Hibari-san a lot of trouble." Tsuna's remorseful voice resonated in the empty hallway.
Not turning to look at the smaller boy, the prefect remarked. "Yes…you do give me a lot of trouble."
Brat! The brunette thought acidly. Tsuna glowered at Hibari. "Then why do you bother with me?"
The dark haired delinquent turned to the brunette, making the younger student tense a bit.
The prefect walked over to him, but the other's strides seemed very much like a predator stalking a prey. Tsuna panicked thinking Hibari was going to hit him. When the dark haired boy was within reach the brunette closed his eyes tightly and braced himself for a beating. Hibari ignored the smaller boy's stupidity, lifting his hand up towards Tsuna, his pale hands hovering over the brunette's slim neck. The prefect's fingers lightly drifted over, the now healed, bite mark he had given the brunette a while ago. Although healed, he still managed to leave a visible imprint on the freshman's skin. Realizing that Hibari was not going to strike him, Tsuna's eyes opened slowly meeting blue-grey eyes.
"You're mine. The proof is here." Hibari said in a low voice as he traced over the bite mark. The light touch made Tsuna shiver, just a bit. The prefect's voice dropped even lower and deeper. "No one is allowed to touch you, but me."
"But, Hibari-san was the one who decided that. That mark doesn't mean anything to me." Tsuna defended. Although, Hibari felt that he owned him, Tsuna didn't feel the same. The bite mark was just one of those crazy things Hibari did. It wasn't any expression of endearment to him. Nor was it a validation of his feelings for Hibari, or vice versa. He tried to make the prefect understand what he was doing. Perhaps, if Hibari knew his reason for going on a date with Yamamoto, maybe the prefect would be more cooperative. "You're like a mystery, but I would like to understand you better. That's why I'm making an effort by going on dates with everyone, to get to know them better."
"No." The upperclassmen said sternly. The prefect's blue-grey eyes pooling into his tawny gaze. Hibari's stare made the smaller boy nervous. It felt as if he was looking into the eyes of a predator. It was almost as if Hibari was eying a defenseless rabbit rather than a Namimori student. The disciplinary prefect's fixation on him was hungry, not for blood or battle, but for Tsuna.
Tsuna found it hard to find his voice. He stammered, dodging Hibari's leer. "T-then I'll just do it behind your back."
Tsuna began to step away from the older student. He didn't like the way he was looking at him and would feel better if they had some distance between them. The brunette also noticed that the hallway was unusually quiet, and no one had walked pass in a while. It was odd to the freshman that such a high traffic area did not have at least one student walking through. Mukuro had interrupted them, but the illusionist's method of travel was unorthodox. If there was any kind of obstruction, Tsuna was positive that wouldn't stop Mukuro from appearing where he desired. The brunette's musings stilled as he bumped into a wall. His eyes widened with the revelation that he was trapped. Before, Tsuna could come away from the surface; the prefect was already upon him, hindering him from leaving. The prefect nearly laughed at the panicked expression upon Tsuna's face. "I told you already that you'll never get past."
"I can try." The brunette said, his eyes were trained on the boy in front of him.
"It'll be a futile effort." Unhurriedly, the raven haired disciplinarian placed his arms on either side of the frightened boy, knowing that Tsuna was trapped under his gaze. Like a deer in head lights, he was frozen, unable to move, unable to think. "Plus, your friends will only get hurt. I've already put them infirmary once, and I'll do it as many times as is necessary until you get the message."
"Then, I would hate you." Warned the brunette, hoping that would scare Hibari. .
To Tsuna's chagrin, Hibari shrugged off the freshman's threat and breathed against the smaller boy's lips. "So?"
From that Tsuna gathered that Hibari would stop at nothing until he got his way. The freshman wondered why the prefect wanted to assure himself that he was Hibari's. Tsuna didn't get the time to ponder as his mind was wiped clean by a very ravenous kiss from Hibari. The prefect's lips pressed down upon his own in a bruising pressure that made Tsuna squeak from the violent force of it. Both pain and pleasure burned the brunette's lips as Hibari roughly pressed into them. After a while, the brunette cried out, as he was losing the feeling in his lips. The strangled sound was music to the prefect's ears. It only pressed him to continue further. There this wanton desire to hear more vulnerable sounds emitted from his prey. He relaxed against Tsuna's lips, giving the other some relief but he didn't draw away too far, his warm breath still ghosted over the smaller boy's lips. The brunette touched his sore lips, making sure they were still there. "Hibari-san…you're too rough."
The dark haired prefect smirked at Tsuna and then he leaned in placing another bruising kiss against the freshman's aching lips. However, the prefect became kinder towards Tsuna, gliding his tongue along his bruised mouth. The brunette cringed at first, the action only made his raw lips sting, but soon, Hibari's wet, hot organ soothed the pain of his aching mouth. Tsuna sighed against the gesture. Yet, it wasn't Hibari's character to cater to the needs of others. He did want Tsuna to enjoy his caresses, but at the same time, Hibari wanted to do things to Tsuna that would cause him pain. His needs were animalistic, something an herbivore would not understand or be too afraid to venture. Even if this was the case, it did not stop Hibari from carrying out his desires. He crashed his lips against Tsuna's, forcefully parting his lips, and then mercilessly the prefect bit down on Tsuna's lower lip breaking skin. The brunette jolted up from the sudden nip; he hadn't been expecting such a thing at all.
The metallic, salty taste of Tsuna's blood aroused the prefect, making him bold. Without warning, the disciplinarian plunged his tongue into Tsuna's mouth. The coppery tastes of his own blood filled his mouth via the prefect's tongue. The brunette thought he would be disgusted by the taste of his own blood but the substance had an opposite effect. The metallic taste called him to action, coaxing the inexperienced boy to meet his own tongue with Hibari's. Tsuna had responded the same way with Byakuran's sugar-coated tongue, he couldn't get enough of how the prefect tasted or the sensation that he felt when his tongue met with the other. Unconsciously, the brown haired prey leaned into the prefect, demanding more of the predator. The disciplinarian was surprised by Tsuna's sudden boldness, but was quick to extinguish it when his power was threatened. Hibari promptly bit the freshman's tongue, reminding Tsuna that he was running the show. The freshman compliantly backed down, giving Hibari back his dominance. He didn't mean to outshine the other; Tsuna was just really enjoying the kiss.
Tsuna sagged against the wall as the prefect soothed his bitten tongue, the mixture of pain and pleasure was making his knees buckle. The brown-haired morsel shuddered as the upperclassmen flicked his tongue along the top of his mouth. Hibari moved into the smaller boy, his body lightly pressing against Tsuna's body. His left knee squeezed in between Tsuna's knees, pushing them apart. Hibari's prey hummed into the kiss as Hibari's knee brushed against his inner thigh. The simple caress made the brunette very warm inside. The predator's appendage brushed against him again and he couldn't help but spill a throaty moan. Embarrassed by the sounds emitting from him, Tsuna broke the kiss with Hibari and pursed his mouth closed. The prefect frowned at the brunette, disappointed that he was shut out of tasting Tsuna. However, Hibari found another way to satiate his appetite for the petite freshman. The predator brought his mouth to the other's neck, nibbling on his prey's flesh.
The brunette struggled very hard not to respond to this. His stomach was doing flips, his temperature was rising higher, it was getting harder to breath and the lack of oxygen to his brain made it difficult to think. His body and mind were so far gone that he couldn't even remember his own name. However, Tsuna came back to his senses when a surreptitious hand began pulling his uniform shirt out of his pants.
"Hibari-san." The brunette panted. He shuddered as the prefect shifted his knee closer to his groin. The weird sensation Tsuna had felt when Byakuran had touched him was beginning to pool below his stomach. The pooling warmth made it hard for him to think straight. The prefect disregarded the smaller boy's cries; he wasn't satisfied yet. His tongue glided along Tsuna's collarbone and over the spot where he had given Tsuna the bite mark. Hibari's hands began to slip pass the rim on his pants and touched the band of his boxers. The helpless boy started to get nervous.
"Hibari-san…please..st- Ah!" Tsuna eyes went wide as Hibari roughly rubbed his thigh into his nether regions. His mouth fixated into an 'o', emitting a silent scream of pleasure. His body was getting warmer and he was rocked with this unfamiliar sensation that was threatening to bring him to his knees. This needed to stop, Hibari was going too far. The brunette mustered all of his strength and focused it into one point. His hands flattened onto the prefect's chest and pushed the dark haired upperclassmen a few steps away from him. He brought his head down too afraid to look the other in the eyes but his voice spoke enough volumes to make up for it. "STOP!"
Tsuna didn't have to look at Hibari to know he was angry. The brunette shivered as he felt the tendrils of the prefect's rage scorching him. Asking for forgiveness and understanding, the freshman bowed. "I-I'm sorry, but…."
"…..." Hibari said nothing as he drifted away from the smaller boy's grasp. The dark haired predator was wondering why he had obeyed Tsuna's order for him to stop. No one had the right to order him around, but….in Tsuna's case, he had complied without lashing out. For now, he allowed it to slip. Hibari's blue eyes shifted to the brunette, who was leaning against the wall, catching his breath while his skin was still flushed from their intimacy. The prefect delighted himself in the knowledge that he had been the one who had left Tsuna breathless and that he was also responsible for his prey's feverish skin. Seeing this gave the uncertain prefect a bit more confidence on his standing with the brunette. The prefect commented. "You may go, Tsunayoshi."
Tsuna looked up, confused on what Hibari was speaking of. "Come again?"
Hibari whirled around, glaring at the freshman for being so stupid! The prefect snarled as he clarified. "With that herbivore."
"I thought you were against it?" Said the brunette as he stood up straight and looked at the prefect incredulously.
"I am," Hibari said as he moved close to Tsuna. Burying his nose into the smaller boy's neck and then nibbling on the other's flesh. The prefect wasn't satisfied until the other whined under his touch and then he drew away. Hibari wasn't sure why he listened to Tsuna's command, but he was assured of one thing…"But I know that no one else can satisfy you like I can."
Hibari's a closet pervert! Tsuna could only respond to such a blatant account within the dimensions of his mind. The brunette was baffled by how the prefect managed to say such a thing with a straight face. Wasn't it against the order of discipline to do obscene things to a guy? Or did Hibari not apply to this, to any, sense of decency?
"Plus, you wouldn't allow anyone else to get further." Hibari stated, peering at the younger boy with an arctic, strict look. He wasn't asking Tsuna, but demanding of Tsuna that he would not let anyone get further.
Scared shitless, Tsuna coincided with the prefect's statement. "R-right."
"Good." Hibari dismissed the topic by yawning into his hand. He then descended down to the ground, roughly yanking his brown haired prey to his level. Predictably, Tsuna's descent was less than graceful. The freshman groaned as he hit the floor harshly, rubbing his thigh which was hit the hardest. However, this did not matter to Hibari at all. He was tired and he was in need of sleep. He hadn't been able to get any sleep lately; he partially blamed his insomnia on Tsuna, as well as the rebellious and undisciplined student body. The dark haired prefect nested himself on the brunette's lap, stretching out his body on the hallway floor.
"H-hibari-san, what are you doing?" Tsuna stammered as he watched the prefect use his body as a makeshift pillow.
"I'm tired." He said, eyes closed and relaxed.
But, why sleep on me?! And in the middle of the hallway, too?! Tsuna pondered.
As if Hibari read his mind, the predator answered. "Because you yelled out that thing's name."
The brunette opened his mouth ready to apologize, but closed it knowing it would not make amends for his offense. Instead, he surrendered to Hibari, figuring this was a light punishment for how he had wronged the prefect. "Oh? Sleep well, then."
Hibari didn't need to be told twice, he was already drifting away into a deep sleep. The brunette sighed, watching the vicious prefect slumber away on his lap. Although, Hibari's punishment did not seem harsh at first, he began to realize the cons of the situation. Both of them were out in the open, in a hallway, where everyone could see them. Plus, the floor was pretty hard and cold. His small body was already getting sore from the stillness of his position and the added weight upon his legs. Tsuna was sure he was going to be feeling this in the morning.
Tsuna stiffened as he heard rustling from one of the ends of the hallway. His large eyes turned to the hallway's end, afraid that a student was approaching them. However, Tsuna saw no one emerge from the other side. Instead, he saw a flash of red and gold. When he turned back to Hibari and saw his disciplinary committee armband, it dawned upon him that at the end of the hall was Hibari's men. From this, Tsuna gathered the reason why a student hadn't come across them was due to the disciplinary committee members blocking anyone from coming. Condoning the fact that Hibari had deliberately cornered him, Tsuna found Hibari's actions very endearing. Hibari had a very forceful way of dealing with things, but at least the brunette knew that the prefect cared. It wasn't a confession, something he doubted he would ever hear from the other's lips, but in Tsuna's opinion it was good enough.
A bolt came out of the blue, making the brunette blush a crimson red. Did the disciplinary committee witness what happened between him and Hibari? Tsuna was starting to feel more self conscious as time went on, thinking that Hibari's men heard him making all those weird sounds. It was so embarrassing; he didn't think he would be able to face any of the committee in person after doing soft-core porn in front of them. Unbeknownst to the brunette, who was suffering from humiliation and regret, a small smirk appeared on the sleepy predator's mouth, glad that Tsuna was receiving a severe punishment. However, the constant fidgeting that Tsuna made due to his embarrassment bothered Hibari immensely. "Quit moving or I'll bite you to death."
A lone figure walked a familiar road. It had been a long time since he had visited this city, walking through this quiet neighborhood made him nostalgic of the memories he had made here. This was the place where he had had to leave his family to work. He knew that his wife would unconditionally love him, but from his son, whom he had disappeared on, the man did not expect that his offspring would show the same sentiment. He sighed heavily, a man had to make hard choices and something those choices meant hurting the people close to him.
As the man neared his home, the figure began to think up scenarios in which he could approach his son and explain to him the reason for his absence. However, nothing suitable came to mind. He could not tell his son the truth about his line of work, and he was very bad at lying. He was very surprised that after all these years his wife actually thought he was off "mining". Bless the good woman's pure soul. However, he was positive that his son was not as oblivious, but that didn't stop him from hoping.
He stood upon the threshold of his house, hesitating to ring the doorbell. Then some fire of determination forced him to push the mechanism, causing him to forget that he still had the key. Ringing the doorbell was a clear indication of his own estrangement from his own residence. People who lived there did not need to ring; they possessed a key because they had the right to enter without being permitted. He fumbled through his clothing and found his house key. The silver key was dusty and tarnished with dirt. Its appearance was proof that it had not been used in sometime. The stranger placed the object into the lock and let himself in.
"Who could it be at this hour?" A tired Nana yawned into her hand as she walked out her bedroom and down the stairs to the front door. As she descended down the stairs, she heard the door open and then close. Surprised, Nana carefully called through the darkness. "Hello?"
The man tensed at the sound of the soft voice. He looked into the dark hallway to see a woman on the stairs, gazing at him. He smiled heartily. "I'm home, Nana."
Nana's brown eyes widened at the sound of the familiar voice. The brown haired woman walked down the stairs to get a better look, she had to see with her own eyes if this was truly her husband. She then slowly smiled at the handsome figure in front of her. She raced up to him and embraced the blonde man. "Iemitsu dear, is it really you?"
"I'm back." Confirmed Iemitsu as he hugged his ecstatic wife to him. He then pulled back, giving the woman a long awaited kiss. He hadn't seen his wife in ages and he had been dying to see her, to touch her and just be with her.
"Oh, why didn't you tell me you were coming earlier?" Nana pulled away from her husband, realizing that there was no food for him to eat. She had prepared a meager dinner for herself, and such a simple meal didn't cut it for the love of her life. "I could have cooked papa a huge meal."
Iemitsu grinned at the joyous greeting he received from his wife and he watched as the flighty woman raced into the kitchen to prepare food for him. As he walked into the kitchen, the brown haired housewife was already reheating some pots and beginning to cook fresh food. Although, he didn't mind being doted on, he was still considerate about the time of night he walked in. Wasn't his wife just sleeping? He crept up behind her, wrapping a strong arm around her waist, making the Nana jump and blush. "You don't have to go through the trouble." He said.
Nana turned to Iemitsu, her cheeks still rosy from the little scare. "But, you had a long journey. Papa is probably starving and tired."
"Your leftovers are fine, enough." Iemitsu said, running one of his hands through his wife's brown hair. He then looked into her eyes adoringly. How he missed looking into Nana's eyes. He then grinned merrily. "I just need a few bottles of sake."
Nana stopped what she was doing and went to get some. She had stored some of the best, just for her husband's return. "Anything for you, dear."
Iemitsu took a seat at the empty kitchen table. As he looked at three vacant chairs, he began to wonder how many meals he had missed with his wife and son. His eyes brightened as he saw his wife coming with a few large bottles of sake. As she handed him the bottle, he quickly chugged half of its content to get rid of his guilt. He then looked to his wife. "Where's my strapping boy? Is he sleeping now?"
"Tsu-kun's away at school." The brown-haired housewife answered as she went back to preparing a meal for Iemitsu.
"Oh, really?" The blonde said, feeling very proud of his son. "Careful, Nana, your son might come back with a wife."
Nana laughed at Iemitsu but informed him of what kind of school Tsuna was attending. "Oh wouldn't that be nice, but I sent Tsu-kun to an all boy's school."
"Hanging with the guys, eh? That'll give him some hair on his chest." Iemitsu smirked; his son was doing very well. He was just a bit disappointed that he didn't get a chance to see his son grow into a man. From within, he grew an urge to see how his son has grown so far. He wondered if his son had become really smart or extremely strong. Was he a ladies' man or a hopeless romantic? Had he grown taller, or instead, bulked up physically? So many questions popped into his mind. He truly wanted to know these things and felt like a horrible father for not knowing the answers to any of these questions. He took another swig of the alcoholic drink to end his thought process.
"I thought Tsu-kun could use the experience. Perhaps, he can become just like his father." Nana considered pensively as she chopped up vegetables with skill. She then paused in her workings to recall the school her son attended. "What was the school called again? Namimori, I believe."
At the sound of the name, Iemitsu spat out the sake he was about to guzzle down. His brown eyes were filled with shock and dread. "What?!"
Nana turned to her husband and inquired. "Is something wrong?"
The blonde swallowed hard as he dared to ask. "What school is Tsuna going to?"
"Namimori." His wife replied blithely. She then turned back to her cooking, not realizing the bombshell she had dropped on her husband. Along with some grilled fish, a pork stew and steamed crab, she was also making her husband a hearty breakfast. It was 3 in the morning, after all. She then turned to her husband as she set the rice into the steamer. "I was really surprised when I got the letter. I don't remember applying and Tsu-kun isn't the brightest boy, I knew he wasn't selected because of his grades. So I wondered why this school would seek him out, but I thought it could be a good opportunity for Tsu-kun."
Iemitsu was only half listening to his wife. His mind was racing a mile a minute, wondering how Tsuna had gained an invitation from that school and why he hadn't been informed. The blonde brooded over this development for a few moments, trying to figure out a way to get his son out of there. He then turned to his wife, who was blissfully frying some wieners into a frying pan and cutting them into octopi. "Nana, how would you like to go see how Tsuna is doing?"
The jovial woman turned to Iemitsu, her eyes so wide as if he had told her they won the lottery or some sweepstake. "Papa, do you mean…"
"Yes, we're going to Namimori." He declared, giving Nana his charismatic grin but in the inside he was fuming with rage. Once he arrived at Namimori, he was sure to give that guy a piece of his mind, and also get his son the hell out of there.
The young brunette strolled down the hallway. The sky was blue, there was not a cloud in sight, the sun was bright, the day was beautiful. And to top off such a beautiful day, it was a Sunday, meaning no classes! Sundays at Namimori were usually very carefree. Much of the student body walked around the school grounds in casual attire taking in the warm weather. The raining season was approaching, as well as the inferno that was summer, so a lot of students took advantage of the comfortable weather conditions.
Tsuna had dressed in a white T-shirt, an orange long sleeve hooded sweatshirt with a dark blue number 27 stitched into the back, dark blue jeans and simple brown sneakers. Although Tsuna had not tried hard at all, he still managed to gain glances from his fellow classmates. These looks were unnerving to the freshman, they made him feel self-conscious and alienated. Which was the reason, Tsuna decided, that he had left the dorms and decided to spend time outside. The brunette ambled across the lush green grass that blanketed the campus. The popular boy reached the back of the lecture building, when he was alerted to a familiar voice calling his improvised title. "Tenth!"
Tsuna turned to his friend as he hurriedly walked up to him. Today, Gokudera had turned in his school uniform for a black t-shirt with a bloody image of a skull and crossbones and plain white pants. Around his silver haired guardian's waist was a spiked brown belt that hung on his hips. On the bomber's feet were black and white sneakers. Gokudera's usual rings and wrist band were also paired up with the look. His friend's shaggy hair was also pulled into a ponytail. Tsuna had to admit that the bomber was really good looking. Gokudera knew how to dress well, he was smart, and very loyal. If Tsuna had been back in junior high school, he was sure Gokudera would never talk to him. The bomber probably would bully him. Tsuna considered himself lucky to have gained the other's attention….wait a minute, was he checking his friend out? What was happening to him? Perhaps, the good weather was getting to him.
Tsuna greeted his friend, beginning to walk again. "Gokudera. Nice day, huh?"
"Yep." Gokudera agreed as he followed. It was a nice day, too nice of a day for him to miss the opportunity of walking around with the tenth. He had spotted the brunette from the sky dorms and raced over.
"Sorry, I didn't meet up with you and Yamamoto after the assembly. I had a lot of things on my mind."
"Tenth must've been worried about the maid café. They forced you to do it, didn't they?" Gokudera inquired accusingly.
They did, but… Tsuna thought to himself but decided that it would be wiser not to mention it at all. The brunette shook his head and beamed at his silver haired companion. "It's okay, Gokudera. As the school mascot, it's kind of my job. I don't mind doing it." The freshman watched as Gokudera accepted his answer and, since they were on the topic, Tsuna was very curious on what the bomber voted for. "Have you voted for my costume, yet?"
"Well…actually…I choose the angel one for you." Gokudera stated slowly, becoming bashful from the brunette's inquiry. Suddenly, the silver haired boy jolted out of his shy demeanor and announced. "But, I think all the choices would look nice on the tenth."
"Byakuran-san and Spanner-san thought of all the costumes ideas." Tsuna admitted with a slight reddening to his cheeks. He would never get use to people complimenting him on how good he would look in his mascot costumes. Then again, was he ever supposed to, and should he even accept it as a compliment? The brunette slipped from her mental reverie to notice Gokudera's frowning face. He had to back track their conversation to find the root of the other's scowl. However, Gokudera beat him to it, showing his dislike for the student president by cursing his name. Still, Tsuna asked the obvious. "You don't like the president?"
Gokudera's emerald green eyes shifted over to the brunette, the hard glare with daggers for the student president, softened. "I just don't trust him around you."
Tsuna frowned at his friend's distrust of Byakuran. To his knowledge, Gokudera had never met the student president in order to judge his character. From spending a lot of time with the white haired president, and even confiding in him, Tsuna could not see the president as less than trustworthy. "Byakuran-san is a bit eccentric, but he's very kind and he looks out for me." Tsuna defended.
Gokudera was going to tell Tsuna what Dino had said about that clown of a president, but held his tongue. He was already showing Tsuna a very ugly side of himself, and the bomber could tell that Tsuna didn't appreciate him badmouthing a friend of his. The walk became awkwardly silent, and Gokudera was becoming even more remorseful with each step. He was about to apologize to the brunette when the freshman turned to him.
"I guess, Gokudera is the same." Tsuna said softly. The brunette knew that Gokudera was only looking out for him, and that the bomber didn't mean any harm. "You're always so protective of me and you treat me so preciously. You must really care for me, a lot."
"Tenth…" The self-proclaimed guardian breathed. "You…?"
Tsuna stared expectantly at his companion, stopping in his tracks. "Yes, Gokudera?"
Gokudera looked at his crush, seriously. He stepped very close to Tsuna. His voice calm, but low enough for Tsuna's ears to hear it. "You know, don't you? That I really like you."
Tsuna could not look at the other's intense green eyes without turning beet red. He looking down at his feet and rocked nervously on his heels. Although Gokudera was always this passionate, Tsuna couldn't handle himself at this moment in front of the bomber's intense emotions. He pulled himself together and prepared himself to say the words Gokudera had been dying to hear. He then replied in the same tone as Gokudera's. "I'm sorry, Gokudera. I didn't notice it earlier. But I'm still unsure of my own feelings."
"It's okay, Tenth. I'm just happy that you acknowledge them." His obedient friend said happily.
Although, Tsuna was happy to hear that his friend was very pleased, it didn't sit well with him. He truly didn't believe Gokudera would be satisfied by that, either. And to be honest, the brunette was also discontent. Tsuna was going to wait till after his date with Yamamoto, but he felt this would be the best time as any. No one was here and it seemed to be the proper thing to do. Tsuna blurted out. "Gokudera, do you want to go on a date with me?"
A pin drop silence swept over them. The bomber just looked at Tsuna stunned and Tsuna looked about ready to run away from this embarrassing predicament all together. The brunette watched Gokudera carefully as the bomber's expressions flowed from astonishment to elation. "Of course, tenth! I'll love to!"
Tsuna released a breath that he had been holding. Confessions and courting were bad for his heart, but all of that was worth it for his friend's happiness. Now, he felt a little more satisfied than before. Not only had he acknowledged his friends feelings, but he was actually putting in an effort to explore these feelings.
"Yo, Tsuna!" The pair turned to see Dino walking up to them. Gokudera was not pleased to see the blonde and subconsciously stood closer to Tsuna, in case the other tried anything funny. The brunette ignored Gokudera's over-protectiveness and greeted the upperclassmen.
"Dino-san…." He forced a smile despite the hostility emitting from his silver haired companion.
Gokudera spat at Dino. "What the hell are you doing here?"
The charismatic blonde turned to Gokudera. His chocolate brown eyes narrowing slightly, but not enough to form a glare. "I can't say hello to Tsuna?"
"No!" barked the silver haired bomber.
"Gokudera…" Tsuna said in a warning tone.
Ignoring the silver haired attack dog at the brunette's side, Dino focused on Tsuna. "So, you're going to be the head maid, huh?"
"Yeah, I'm kind of afraid to do it. I don't want to mess up." Confessed the brunette although Byakuran had convinced him to do the maid café, he was still nervous about making a fool out of himself.
"Don't be silly, Tsuna. You'll be great and you're not as clumsy as I am." The blonde joked.
Tsuna couldn't help but to smile at Dino's jab at himself. "I guess so. Did you get a chance to choose a costume for me?"
"No, not yet." Dino replied mulling over the options in his head. Although, he did get a chance to check out the choices, he couldn't decide. "There are just too many excellent selections to choose from. You would look good in all of them, in my opinion. But I am leaning towards the angel one."
Gokudera interjected nastily. "Pervert!"
You selected the same one, Gokudera! Tsuna commented mentally.
Now, Dino was pissed. He knew Gokudera was being childish and that he shouldn't stoop to his level, but he couldn't help it. "I wonder which one you're choosing, kid dynamite." The charismatic upperclassmen sneered.
"None of your fucking business. All you need to know is that it's better than your choice." Gokudera spat.
It's the same choice! Tsuna screamed in the dimensions of his mind.
The Bucking Horse retorted, "Whatever, man. You probably picked something stupid like unknown or random. Isn't what's more important is for us to win the prize, anyway?"
Tsuna blinked blankly, recalling there was some sort of an award involved. "The prize? Oh right, Byakuran-san never said what that was."
"I'm betting it's a date with you." Dino smirked.
"What?!" Tsuna exclaimed. The brunette hoped that wasn't the prize, he had enough on his plate already.
"Ha! Then I've already won." Gokudera said, victoriously.
Dino raised an eyebrow at Gokudera's triumphant glee and questioned Tsuna. "What is he talking about?"
Tsuna rubbed his arm timidly before explaining. "Well, I asked Gokudera on a date, just now. I even asked Yamamoto."
The terrorist stopped his jubilant ride on cloud nine at hearing that Tsuna had also asked the baseball nut as well. "Huh?"
Tsuna looked guiltily at Gokudera and turned back to Dino. His cheeks were reddening as he formed the words to say to the upperclassmen. "And I was going to ask, Dino-san, as well, but-"
"I accept." The blonde agreed.
Tsuna beamed. "Really?"
"Why would I decline?" The charming upperclassmen said as he ruffled Tsuna's wild hair.
Gokudera pushed Dino's hand away from Tsuna and asked, "But, tenth what about our date?"
"I'm still going on a date with you, Gokudera. I just wanted to give everyone who expressed feelings for me a chance." Tsuna explained to the silver haired guardian.
"What?!"
"Sounds fair." Dino said thoughtfully.
Tsuna frowned at Gokudera's reaction. He was expecting his friend to be against it. Tsuna just hoped Gokudera was more civil than Hibari. "Are you uncomfortable with this?"
Gokudera did have a problem with this, but he kept his opinions to himself. He was willing to do anything for Tsuna if it meant his happiness. He sighed and giving in. He nodded his head, assuring the other that he was not bothered by his choice. "Of course not! The tenth has made a very noble decision."
Tsuna smiled at Gokudera, very happy that he was setting aside his feelings to make this work. As Tsuna was about to thank his silver haired friend for being so understanding, his attention was drawn away by Dino's arm that was wrapped around his slender shoulders. The blonde drew in close to the petite freshman, their noses nearly touching and their eyes glued to each other. "So Tsuna, how about we go on our date, Thursday?"
Tsuna struggled to use his brain. "Um…"
Gokudera brought the small boy down to earth. "Tenth, let's go tomorrow!"
Dino turned to Gokudera, surprised by his choice. He raised an eyebrow. "Tomorrow? That doesn't give you a lot of time to prepare."
Gokudera glared at the blonde bastard. "I don't need to prepare. I'm always ready to show the tenth a good time."
Dino removed his arm from around Tsuna and glared at the idiotic terrorist. "Are you sure about that? If you mess up, you might lose your chance with Tsuna."
Gokudera's eyes burned into suave upperclassmen before him, but the intensity of his gaze began to falter. The bomber looked as if he was beginning to reconsider. As much as he hated to admit it, Dino had a point. This wasn't really a date, it was a test. Tsuna was testing everyone to find out who he liked the most and he had to make sure he didn't fail. Before Gokudera did anything rash, Tsuna spoke up. "Tomorrow is fine, Gokudera. And Dino-san, we'll go on Thursday."
"Can't wait." Dino smiled at Tsuna and headed back towards the Sky dorms. "I'll pick you up at your room. See you, Thursday."
Tsuna looked back to Gokudera, to find that the silver haired guardian had also left. He then spotted Gokudera also heading toward the dormitories. The silver haired guardian called back. "Tomorrow, I promise will be the best date the Tenth has ever had!"
"It's not a contest." Tsuna sighed heavily to himself. Tsuna was hoping that everyone wouldn't compete with each other, but he guessed he should have expected it. The brunette didn't want the best date ever; he just wanted to know everyone better. Tsuna knew it was hard to show oneself in a crowd, so he thought by going on dates, there would be a chance for his friends to relax in his presence and be true to themselves. Perhaps, he was being too hopeful and unrealistic. He was sure when he broke the news to Ryohei, the boxer would follow suit with everyone else, except more extremely. The brunette sighed once more…what had he gotten himself into?
At the far end of the town of Namimori rested an abandoned inn named Mugen. The Mugen Inn was a dark wooded structure that was reminiscent of the old style inns from a more ancient period in Japanese history. The inn had an interesting history of murder, betrayal, and other acts of deviance. As rumor had it, the inn had closed down after the murder of the owner and his unfaithful wife. Although the inn was never re-opened because of failed attempts to remodel the establishment, it remained a landmark of the town. The Mugen inn was a gem in the town, where a myriad of ghost stories about that particular inn had risen which brought in more tourists to visit the haunted building. It was the ghost sightings and convenience of the place that made the Mugen Inn a hospitable place for Mukuro to live. Mukuro did not fear apparitions, he had seen worse in his lifetime, and the distance from the school could not be beat. Mukuro did have a room at the school, but he never stayed there for long. School was boring, the teachers had nothing unique for him to learn, and he hated the place like cats despised water. So, the illusionist would come to this abandoned inn whenever staying at the school became overwhelming.
Mukuro did not live alone. Two loyal acquaintances always accompanied him, and together, they were able to fix up their temporary home. Mukuro and his companions never stayed in one place for too long. They were not absconding from the authorities, but had come to accept this type of lifestyle over time. Even, when Mukuro was admitted to Namimori, he was antsy about staying walled up in one place. It was new to him to be grounded, and he preferred wandering about, not knowing his destination until he saw it.
Mukuro entered the building through a secret passage that only the trio knew of. The inn was boarded up to keep out curious teenagers and tourist, but Mukuro had managed to create a secret way into the building. The passageway led him to a closet in one of the vacant rooms of the inn. The illusionist slipped into the hallway, leading to the area his companions and he had made their own. The hallways were illuminated by candlelight, adding to the ambiance of the atmosphere. Mukuro followed the candles to the old sitting room/ kitchen. The sitting room light was provided by stolen electricity from a neighbor, as well as the other essential utilities. The room was dressed up with stolen luxuries: a big screen television, a big stereo system, a refrigerator and other tiny luxuries. Beside the dust, the cobwebs and their friendly neighbors, the spiders…the place was pretty homey.
The blue haired delinquent walked further into room, quickly noticing that someone else was in the room. His heterochromatic gaze turned away from the items in the room, to the figure just feet away.
"Mukuro-sama, back so soon." greeted a boy with dark hair, a barcode tattoo on his cheek and spectacles. "I thought you would be out for much longer."
"Kufufu. School was boring so I decided to return a tad early. My early arrival is not too troublesome for you, I hope, Chikusa?" The illusionist asked his associate, walking past him and going into the fridge. Mukuro smiled upon seeing that someone had gone shopping and stockpiled the shelves with goodies. He re-emerged from the fridge door to reveal a half eaten apple to his mouth.
"Of course not. Mukuro-sama can come and go as he wishes." The other said mildly as he pushed his glasses up the rim of his nose. Chikusa noticed the dark bruise on the dark blue haired boy's cheek. Concerned for his leader, he questioned. "Mukuro-sama, what happened?"
"I pissed off a vicious birdie." Mukuro said nonchalantly as he finished off the fruit and tossed the pit into the rubbish bin. He had almost forgotten about the mark. There were times when the bruise would ache, but for the most part, it wasn't a bother. Mukuro was quick to notice the absence of another of his acquaintances. He looked back to Chikusa. "Where's Ken?"
"Taking a bath." The light reflected off of Chikusa's glasses clouding the other's eyes. Their blonde companion was taking a bath, alright. Chikusa personally made sure he chained the feral guy to the shower head, making sure he washed up real good.
Mukuro already had a sadistic image of what kind of perils Ken was enduring. The illusionist laughed as he walked across the sitting room, heading to a different hallway. "Kufufu, sounds fun. I'm turning in for the night."
Chikusa nodded, willingly giving Mukuro the space he needed. He was very aware that space was very important to Mukuro and so he respected that, just as how he emulated the illusionist. Ken, on the other hand, was different. With the loyalty of a canine, he was inconsiderate of Mukuro's need of space, which led to Chikusa taking up the troublesome task of suppressing the blonde. "I'll make sure, Ken keeps quiet."
"Please do." The teen replied as he continued down the hallway. It was a brisk walk until he came upon his own room. His own private quarters were the biggest room in the inn, and although the size of the room didn't really matter to Mukuro, it still had its benefits. The window was boarded up, but in the morning streaks of sunshine managed to peek through, and the cold night air was still able enter. The illusionist made up for the lack of light through a tall modern lamp. The delinquent had a bed, a desk that he rarely used, and even a book shelf filled with books, that he had stolen from the school library, or anywhere books were sold, and a drawer for his clothes. Unlike any other teen, he didn't have posters of his idols or pictures of family and friends. But, Mukuro would not have it any other way.
He flopped on to the bed and relaxed against the cool dark sheets. His eyes stared at the ceiling for a moment until his injury began to sear, even though it had been a couple of days since the birdie had hit him, the injury had become a constant reminder of his own foolishness. Whenever his bruised cheek would ache, he was made to contemplate his reasons for showing up there in the first place. The delinquent made it seem that his appearance was deliberate and that his intention was to mess with the prefect's head. However, that wasn't the real reason.
Mukuro was not sure what had triggered it, but he emerged because he felt threatened by something. But what was he threatened by? He knew it wasn't Hibari. The disciplinary prefect was not someone he feared, even after the animalistic bird had struck him. His mind began to delve deeper into the topic, but like all things that could potentially rupture his dismal perception of the world, he avoided such revelations by keeping a distance. The teen lips curled up into a twisted a smile, not because he was thinking of something sadistic or found something amusingly funny, but for the simple fact that he was dwelling on something that he should ignore. It wasn't important, not worth any of his precious time. He was back in his room; anything in that school meant nothing to him. He had closed ties with that place long ago and he wasn't looking to reconnect. The illusionist was only there by request and once his favor was finished, he could carry on with his life.
He pulled his thoughts away from the fortnight and decided to distract his mind with knowledge. He picked up a random book and began reading. At first, he read the book with fervor, but his thoughts got the best of him. Once more he was catapulted into the sea of reverie. No longer did he see the words on the page, but images of that night coming clearer. He sighed closing his eyes and rubbing his temples, hoping that the small circles that he massages into his skull would make the images go away. They didn't go away. Amused and slightly annoyed by the persistence of his memories, Mukuro grudgingly relinquished his resistance. Perhaps, if he allowed his mind to show him the meaning behind his unusual actions, he could find some peace and if his memories were unable to serve this purpose, then at least it preoccupied some of his time. Like a blind man, Mukuro allowed these images in his head to guide him to the murkiness of his thoughts. And then there came a voice:
What am I to you, Hibari-san?
And then, Mukuro remembered. Those words has stirred something within him and made him confront Tsuna and Hibari. But why? Why would he care if Tsuna was something of value to Hibari? So what, the brunette didn't mean much to him. He was only interested in Tsuna to get his revenge on Byakuran and also to rile Hibari up. As soon as those goals were accomplished, he had no problem dropping the small boy like a worthless penny. He was nothing to him. Tsuna was just another useless being with a pretty face.
And even though he told himself this, he could not help but go back to that night that he had acted so rashly. He pondered even more on his own reactions; slowly he was becoming someone else. He had to admit his actions on that night were not of a person, who regarded Tsuna as nothing. Mukuro responded to Tsuna's question to Hibari with great urgency, and dare he say it, jealousy! Perhaps he was jealous. The illusionist chuckled to himself, that couldn't be true. That would place him in the same place as that birdie, and he wasn't like that guy at all. Hibari and he were very different, indeed.
Yet, when he was struck by Hibari and the brunette called out his name, he felt very satisfied. He wasn't one to jump to lofty conclusions, but from the Tsuna's actions he could tell the boy was concerned for him. From past experiences, he learned to read people's eyes, and at that moment, what he picked up from Tsuna was pure consternation. It had made him feel good: warm and fuzzy. Plus, it was wonderful how Hibari hated it, too.
Tsuna's sympathy on his behalf almost numbed the pain of his bruised cheek. No, he wouldn't go that far. At least, Mukuro wasn't willing to admit it. He reverted to his guarded self and comforted himself with his own perceptions of the horrendous human race. Tsuna didn't show him sympathy, he showed him a lie. He didn't care about him. No one did. Tsuna just felt bad that he was injured. Ken and Chikusa were only here because of a loyalty he wouldn't allow himself to fathom, let alone reciprocate. And as for her, he was her savior and although, they had relatable predicaments and pain, he couldn't bring himself to admit that they had a connection. The only thing he was assured of, while around her, was that she wouldn't tell him lies.
Still, he couldn't help but keep going back to Tsuna. The other seemed to be working into his thoughts, as of late. Whether it was his fake concern for him, the brunette's determination to befriend him, or the boy's uncanny innocence, the illusionist knew he was becoming enthralled by the other. Mukuro sighed to himself, placing a hand over his mismatched eyes. Marshmallow brain was right…Tsuna could not be corrupted and had been able to stay virtuous through Mukuro's many attempts to entice him. Instead, Mukuro was starting to be influenced by the boy. At first, it seemed like a funny little joke, but now Mukuro was beginning to realize that it was not a joke, or at least, it was a joke that lost its humor. Somehow, the brunette had affected him. From his actions the previous night, he could only gather that he was jealous, or something close to it. He hated to place himself in the same category as Hibari, but if the emotion fits the action, so be it. Mukuro never became jealous of anyone. Human beings were mere instruments to use at his whim. Why would he become jealous of anyone with no significant purpose, other than to be used by him or someone else? The whole affair was ridiculous, but he wasn't a fool. In some way, he liked Tsuna or was growing to like the other.
Mukuro just suspected that Tsuna was different from everyone else. Time and time again, he had pointed out how they contrasted. The brunette was a luminous light and the illusionist was the opposite. And although, Mukuro had told himself to convince himself they were so very different, it didn't stop him from wanting to be touched by Tsuna's light. The other was very refreshing, fun to tease, and very interesting. And he wasn't lying when he had said he wanted to conquer the school idol's body. A lecherous smirked appeared on his face from that last thought.
Like a reminder, a chilling memory invaded his reflection. I wish I could keep you, but you're of no use to me.
Was the words whispered to him that eventful night. The illusionist's mismatched eyes darkened as he revisited the incident that began his hatred for the student president. Clear in his mind were those condescending lilac eyes, which had once gazed at him with such fondness, and then divulged the other's true nature. He hadn't even suspected that that Byakuran was plotting behind his back. It had been a surprise to him; he hadn't seen it at all. Just like Tsuna, Byakuran had started out as very kind and understanding, but that was all a façade. The president was even more cold and calculating than he. Mukuro didn't believe Tsuna would backstab him like Byakuran had, but it was hard not to consider the possibility. Maybe, Tsuna was a ploy placed by Byakuran to ensnare him? What if Tsuna was just like that treacherous weasel?
But, Byakuran didn't have the luminosity that drew him in, Tsuna possessed it. Thinking it over even more, Tsuna didn't seem capable of such a thing; the freshman didn't have the brain for it. Mukuro saw the brunette being preyed on by Byakuran rather than trying to manipulate him. And Tsuna was even more naïve when he was with the student president, he probably didn't know anything about his past with Byakuran. Plus, the president made it very clear that Tsuna was very important to him. Mukuro wasn't sure what made the brunette so precious to the student president, but he was going make sure Byakuran didn't get his way. He'd get to Tsuna, first.
It was decided, he would go back to school. He hated the place, but at least his stay wouldn't be too painful if he has something to look forward to. He got up from his place and headed outside of his bedroom. Once, the delinquent re-entered the sitting room he was ambushed by an enthusiastic blonde. Mukuro's mismatched eyes came face to face with brown ones. The more the illusionist focused the more he was able to make out the scar on the brim of the other's nose and the clips that tamed the blonde's wild hair. The one named Ken exclaimed as he lunged at the dark haired teen, "Mukuro-sama!"
Mukuro managed to evade Ken's attempt to hug him, resulting in the excited blonde crashing into a nearby wall. The illusionist smirked. "Good evening, Ken. Did you have an enjoyable bath?"
The feral teen pushed himself off the wall he crashed into, and rubbed at his redden nose. He growled, baring his teeth and pointing a clawed finger at Chikusa. "Kaki-pii, nearly drowned me!"
Chikusa, who had been flipping through a magazine the whole time, responded in monotone voice. "It was troublesome to turn off the water with Ken naked."
"That's no fucking reason to nearly kill me!" Ken barked at the other's indifference
Usually, it was amusing observing his companions' antics but Mukuro grew impatient with their tiff. He wasted enough time here and needed to rush back to school, in order to figure out how he was going to woo Tsuna. Although, he was sure it wouldn't be hard. Mukuro walked pass Ken and headed towards the exit. "Kufufu. It's nice to know you're still in the world of the living, Ken."
"Mukuro-sama. Where are you going?" Ken questioned before Mukuro left the sitting room.
"Back. I forgot…I had an exam." The illusionist lied, but either way he knew the two would not question his excuse.
"So soon…" The blonde whined, disappointed that he didn't get to spend time with the delinquent.
Mukuro sympathetically looked over his shoulder at Ken and Chikusa. "I'll stay longer next time. We'll go out for Sukiyaki. It'll be on me."
Chikusa nodded, not wanting to hinder Mukuro any further. He mouthed. "Be safe."
Once Mukuro was allowed to leave, he took the incentive. His legs began to move, leading the illusionist to their secret passage. However, he froze in his tracks once again, when an idea came to mind. The illusionist then slowly turned back around. His foot stepped on the threshold of the sitting room, gaining the attention of his two companions. He then grinned. "Actually, I could use your help."
Chapter end
Mugen – means fantasy, visions, dreams and another definition is infinite. This out of a Japanese dictionary…so I don't know how accurate it is.
Sukiyaki- is a meat dish-thing. You watch as beef, vegetables and tofu are boiled in the broth in a large pot. Then you dip the cooked items into raw egg yolk. It's pretty delicious.
Omake – The Seme (s) explains it all Part I- The problem with Tsunayoshi Sawada
Note: When referring to the characters of the show, they would be called by their numbers or letters. Such as 27 for Tsuna or 100 for Byakuran and X for Xanxus.
Tsuna: Byakuran-san, why is this fanfic so sexual? I'm tired of hearing innuendos and people wagering bets on me.
Byakuran: Well, Tsu-chan, it's really not the fanfic's fault. It's based on a very questionable anime and manga.
Tsuna: Questionable?
Byakuran: nods why yes? In the beginning of the show we are introduced to a protagonist that runs around in his boxers.
Tsuna: blushes b-but, that's not his fault. The baby…it's the baby's fault!
Byakuran: Not only that. The main character is able to gather his "guardians" by captivating them with his underwear play.
Xanxus: interjects Yeah! As soon as the trash gets a load of 27's underwear, they were ready to jump abroad the fucking Vongola bandwagon. And don't let me get started on the pedophilia with that damn gun totting baby.
Tsuna: Everyone joined 27 because of friendship! Not because of his underwear!
Xanxus: You're right, it wasn't the underwear….
Tsuna: Thank you.
Xanxus: laughs it was 27's great personality!
Byakuran: grins Xan-chan was being sarcastic…by the way
Tsuna: Yea….I got that. Rolls eyes Look, maybe 27 didn't have the best qualities, but there had to be something else that drew everyone to him.
Byakuran: Riiiight, Tsu-chan, keep telling yourself that.
Tsuna: groans …….Are you finished?
Byakuran: Not quite, Tsu-chan. Xan-chan and I are getting to one of the biggest conundrum of them all. The iron clad loyalty of 27's guardians. Leers at Tsuna Not that I blame them, though.
Xanxus: The reason why 27's pansy ass guardians stick by him is unknown to me. After all the near death experiences, the hospital visits and the ego squashing, I would think those pieces of trash would stay away from 27. But the audience can only assume that 27's putting out. I mean, 27 better be giving them some kind of ass if his guardians are risking their fucking lives for him. Fuck friendship, I just defeated a scary ass motherfucker for you and I nearly died! A smile and thank you, just doesn't cover that shit!
Byakuran: claps Well said, Xan-chan.
Tsuna: That can't be true…
59 (Gokudera): chimes in whenever you're ready, tenth? I'm willing to wait. Smiles
80 (Yamamoto): chuckles He does have a point
D (Dino): nods I have to agree as well
Tsuna: Guys! You're supposed to be supporting me...I mean 27!
Byakuran: Can't fight the truth, Tsu-chan?
Tsuna: getting mad but what about the Varia? And the Millefiore?
Xanxus: grins wickedly X does give them something…..their damn lives.
Byakuran: because 100 is God….oops, I meant Seme…but it's pretty much the same thing, anyway. God, Seme…people use those terms so loosely, nowadays.
Xanxus: No, they don't.
Tsuna: ……………….sighs anyway, I think I understand a little better
Byakuran: grins Very good, Tsu-chan. pets Tsuna's head
Xanxus: It's about fucking time.
Seme (s): 1 - Tsuna: 0
Author's note:
Wow, this was a long chapter. I hope I didn't lose anyone or butcher Mukuro and Hibari, too much. It took me a long time to write, but I am happy in how it came out. Chapter sixteen was suppose to come out in August to celebrate this fanfic's one year birthday, but Chapter fifteen will have to suffice. I would like to thank you guys for reading this fanfic for a whole year, it's been great. Thank you for your support via review or even adding this story to favorites. I really appreciate it and I hope that I continue to please you.
On another note, Angelic Lolita and Bondage Catboy are neck and neck at the polls. The poll will be opened until chapter seventeen, so be sure to vote. From that last chapter, there have been a few added choices (I forgot to add Victorian Brat…until later. Sorry.) and you are able to vote for up to three choices. So continue voting.
That's the end of my ranting. Please review and show your support for my fanfic. It gives me power. And if you have any suggestions don't be afraid to express them, but only if good intentions are behind them. Thank you again everyone!!! Thank you Mithras151 for checking this chapter.
