OMG 100 reviews (shout out to Amaya Ishimoto thanks man!), 190 follows and 170 favourites?! I just want to say THANKS FOR THE SUPPORT!
Also I will be going overseas for a few months sooooo I won't be able to post a lot (if any) of chapters and you don't understand how sorry I am! But this is the most I have written and I do hope you will like it! (I kinda rushed it a bit since I'm leaving tomm morning so editing is a bit rough…)
Anyway what else… (I really feel there is something important to say but I don't remember urgh)
Enjoy, review but most importantly ENJOY
A Question, A Stake of Vindice Pride And Two Parties
It was closing in to be the eighth month Tsuna had lived with the Vindice and as Jack watched the miraculously fast growth of the child when it came it his flame manipulation a thought occurred to him. "Oi Tsuna." The brunette stopped throwing black inky flames at the unfortunate target dummy and faced the squatting fiery Vindice member. Once Jack got the younger's attention he continued. "When's ya birthday?"
The child tilted his head cutely as he thought about it. The Vindice guard felt the need to punch the nearest wall just to feel manly again. "Birthday? Wassat?" Brushing his faded coarse hair with his fingers the guard gestured the other to come closer and sit beside him. "Ya know tha day you were born? When you first came into this world?"
As he looked at those confused honey brown eyes it just occurred to the older male that Tsuna was far too young to know his birthday having only experienced it twice in his tiny lifetime. Really the child acted so much older than he was usually that he couldn't help but forget. Sadly though that left Jack to do the explaining- something that was common knowledge in Vendicare that he was truly terrible at. 'Shit. ok here goes nothi-' Suddenly in the corner of his eye he caught the sight of a familiar cloak passing the doors of the training grounds. "YO ALEJANDRO! O'ER FREAKIN HERE"
The passing guard winced slightly at the sheer volume of the other's voice. That hot tempered guard was easily the loudest Vindice in Vendicare. Sighing silently the sun attribute user strode dignified toward them, his cold noble like aura radiating that subtly screamed this-better-be-important-or-else. "Yes. Jack. And how may I help you?" He responded dryly in which the other guard twitched in annoyance at the tone. The two weren't exactly the closest of guards due to their clashing personalities. The red head considered the other 'to forever have a stick shoved where the sun don't freaking shine' while the pale blonde had used words like 'rowdy uncultured swine' to describe the other, in fact the only reason Alejandro was there was to check up on Tsuna- possibly the only subject the two will ever agree on.
Scowling the younger Vindice suddenly mused whether asking the stuck-up guard was really worth it and considered just telling the other to leave but then he remembered who he was doing this for. "Tsuna here don't understand what's a birthday." Alejandro raised an eyebrow turning his attention on the young child. "Is that true Tsuna?"
Said child was now blushing softly as he fiddled with his thumbs and nodded shyly. Apparently this was a well known concept and he'd never really encountered the idea before- yes there were passing words like that in the fairy tales he used to read but he was pretty sure that you don't die or fall into enternal slumber when you experience your 16th birthday- or at least he hoped not. The two couldn't help but give a small smile at the brunette which was the human equivalent of melting under the cuteness that is Tsunayoshi Sawada. "Well a birthday is the celebration of the day a person's born. Usually there is a party, gifts and a cake with candles the same number as whatever age you are."
As the eldest Vindice continued telling stories of the so called birthday celebrations, the other also interjected with some of his own tales of his share of parties and the tiny boy's eyes widened and sparkled with awe. He had never been aware of such a thing! "What brought this topic up if I may ask?" The elder politely asked. Tsuna too lost in the fantasy of this birthday concept didn't hear the question so the hotheaded Vindice answered for him. "It just occurred to me we should freaking celebrate it so I asked when it was." Alejandro nodded, if it had been anyone else he would have praised them for such an astute insight in child rearing since it was rare to even think about their birthdays after living so long however he would would rather face the monster Checkerface with a rusty spoon than acknowledge the intellect of the red head so in the end he settled with a nod of approval.
Leaving Tsuna to his musings the two guards left to take a little visit to their Boss's office. Knocking politely they entered once given the soft grunt of approval. There they were greeted with what could only be described as every boss's living nightmare- paperwork was stacked reaching the ceiling and covered every available surface. It was a good thing they came here to talk about Tsuna or they would have been in huge trouble for disturbing their boss who by the look of all the white papers was not in the best of moods. There in the middle of the white chaos was the small cloaked figure of Bermuda signing everything at an inhuman pace, "Jack, Alejandro- what brings you to my personal slice of hell?" he greeted sourly without even looking up.
Clearing his dry throat Alejandro was the first to speak "*ahem* Yes well we were here on an urgent matter concerning Tsunayoshi." That got the arcobaleno's attention as he looked up sharply from a very complicated looking document. "The Child?"
"Yeah we wanna know his birthday." The storm attribute ex-arcobaleno drawled out. Bermuda frowned but jumped off his far too big swivel chair to dig out the document, mutters of "using the word urgent in improper context" and "damn Jager for slacking off" was heard in the rustling of papers. After a few more minutes of document hunting and the increasing volume of their boss's quite disturbing comments and threats on his right hand man the bandaged baby triumphantly pulled out a plain white bundle of paper that had been stapled together with an orange stapler. "Sawada Tsunayoshi. Male. Birthdate: October 14."
It take less than two seconds to calculate how many days that was, then it took a good minute and a half for them to process how close it was approaching. "Men." The two Vindice turned to their boss, all seemed to hold the same thoughts in their mind. "Gather everyone we have work to do." The two bowed slightly before leaving the room swiftly, fading into the shadows of the dark halls.
As the duo left Tsuna couldn't help but grin as he noticed the two subtly fight over which individual was to stand in front of the other. 'A birthday party? I'm sure Ieyasu will love the idea when I tell him about it...' A slight frown made a way onto his angelic face, the last few monthly visits to Namimori wasn't the most pleasant experiences not that he would tell anyone. His mother can be quite tricky, purposely making play dates or sleepover arrangements for his twin whenever he arrived. They would get a few hours together at most which they would spend chatting and playing before he had to face those apologetic blue eyes as the blonde left leaving his younger half alone with the cold, heartbreakingly cruel woman known as Nana. Usually the moment the oldest twin left the building the warm bubbly personality of the woman would quickly fade away like water on chalk, a sneer would grace her usually pretty features and either spit out a few insults or just outright ignore the brunette, not that Tsuna chose to stick around till then- he was not so naive to stay in the house and put up with the women like before. When Ieyasu left he would go out for a walk like how he used to before, it was nice to see the blue sky and the greenery that can only be seen in such small country towns, a nice change of pace from the grey walls and scent of iron in Vendicare.
As he thoughts moved back to the Vindice Tsuna realised with a start that he'd never really seen them go outside- yes they did for their duties and such but they never really went out for leisure. Slowly they were changing, indulging in activities that didn't focus on whatever quest for vengeance and justice that they always seemed to obsess about. 'Maybe it's because of their strange appearance?' The child mused.
He was very aware that the true form of the guards weren't considered... Aesthetically appealing to others but he never really seemed to bring himself to care about appearance. Sometimes though when he practiced with Star-san and a guard was watching the brunette could swear for a moment that he'd seen a real person there- not just the appearance of a mangled living corpse but a person with normal healthy flesh and colored eyes. Maybe it's because of these little glimpses of their spirits that made them seem more human, maybe it's how they bare themselves and their emotions to the boy but Tsuna knew that the Vindice were indeed human beings- just very broken ones. And he loved them very much as they took in this small abandoned cracked child and made him part of their own.
And said child wanted to pay them back- even if only a little bit. Suddenly Tsuna got an idea. Eyes flashed orange with resolve as he pumped his arm in the air like he'd seen on those hero shows Ieyasu liked to watch. "Yosh! It's decided! I'll make them look normal and-and then I'll introduce everyone to Namimori! - I'll stake my Vindice pride on it!"
It was a great idea but it was easier said than done- for both child and Vindice guards.
"I have gathered you all for an important meeting."
Gravelly murmurs filled the air, a few grumbles were heard from the guards that actually had duties to fulfill today- luckily there hadn't been much criminal activity that was so bad the Vindice needed to step in recently. "It's concerning one Sawada Tsunayoshi." All noise ceased and was replaced by the silence of every guard at attention, Jäger couldn't help but smirk at how cute everyone was when the child was concerned- no matter how much they would deny it. Still he too was quite curious at why his boss and master had called for them all. "In two weeks..." Everyone held their nonexistent breath. "Will be Tsuna's 3rd birthday. October 14. And he's never had a party before." A pregnant pause settled in the air as the implications of the statement settled in. Tsuna's birthday was coming, his first birthday party with the Vindice, his first birthday party ever. A faint twitch or a flicker of emotion was all they expressed to show their growing excitement, soon murmurs broke out in anticipation. They were already just imagining the little child lighting up at the sight. "We will show Tsuna a great birthday party thrown in true Vindice style." A roar of defeating cheers could be heard so loud it echoed through the lower floors where the prisoners residing there couldn't help but shudder in fear at the almost ominous sound.
The Vindice were people who once they invest in something, they'll do it thoroughly, perfectly - child bearing and party-throwing being no exception.
Yes. They would stake their Vindice pride on it.
Taking out his Vongola book and tenderly brushing off the dust that covered it, the brunette excitedly opened it as he hid under his bed with a flashlight. He wanted to be as secretive as possible to surprise everyone! Much like those spy books he had read a while back. The Vongola book held the most detailed information on the flames from attributes to uses in its specific form and that right now was details the child seeked.
After much reading and rereading the brunette frowned slightly as he offed his flashlight and shut the book. Absentmindedly tracing the holding wording of the title he mentally recounted any potential information for his goal- which was not much. Mist flames seemed to be the only type of magic that was actually applicable as it created the illusion of a healthy appearance but Tsuna wanted to go that step further- he wanted the user to /feel/ alive rather than just look it. A simple illusion would just mock what they didn't have, would hurt them further and Tsuna didn't want that. He wanted to heal them.
He wondered if Sun-kun's activation magic could help in that aspect, maybe even Rain-kun or Lightening-kun could also be used. It was an interesting thought in theory but it seemed almost too simple for reviving or regenerating a living person. Wordlessly the brunette grabbed a cheap stuffed toy that had been a gift from one of the neighborhood mothers that visited him on the streets and tore the poor thing almost in half. Then after doing so Tsuna quickly dashed to the training grounds trying to not fall down too much as he hid the toy all sneaky-sneaky like. Once affirming no one else on the grounds he triumphantly took out the broken toy and gently placing it on the ground in front of him, muttering soft apologies for what he had done and what he intended to do.
Closing his eyes he focussed on calling out his flames, mainly for a certain indigo and a certain yellow colored flames, honestly ever since being unsealed he'd only played with his other flames enough times to get used to controlling them choosing to focus mainly on Sky-san. Now thinking back it was probably not the best idea to do. Indigo and gold yellow flames danced on his palms as the flame on his forehead flickered the two colours, his eyes changed also changed colors in sync to his flames yet they held a faint almost ethereal tinge of orange. His fingers splayed open toward the broken toy and eyes flashing a strange mix of orange, indigo and yellow as they narrowed in determination and resolve the child couldn't help but give a soft smile as he imagined the unspoken happiness of the Vindice if- no- when he succeeded.
The Vindice had experienced many things. Choosing to live on as a corpse for the sake of revenge or to die in oblivious peace. Check. Betraying or facing a betrayal with comrades close enough to call friends. Check. Destroying a whole familigia that had corrupted to far. Double check.
However as they all dispersed out of that meeting they were faced with a problem no one had ever faced before. What to get for Tsuna's birthday.
They were the Vindice- precise, cruel, powerful and most importantly perfect to a fault. So it's no wonder their need for perfection had carried alongside to their inexperienced gift-giving. However Tsuna was a hard person to give a present to. Unlike other children his age should be the brunette was always undemanding, unselfish and easily self satisfied. Yes, Tsuna was a challenge worthy of the Vindice indeed.
It had been decided for them all to split into three main groups where they would circulate their roles every few days- Usual Duties, Party Setting Up and Gift Giving. Though it meant very little time to see Tsuna- only looking over him during any free time, the tuna-deprivation would be well worth it for when the big day came. The female Vindice had already grouped together squealing about possible gift ideas while some others had paired up in groups no larger than three discussing calmly (though showing subtle signs of excitement) about things that the child would like. Apparently Alejandro already had something in mind as he headed straight to his room giving a slight smirk to Jack before shutting the door, much to the other's annoyance. Not one to be outdone the redhead practically fired up as he too slammed the door to his room planning possible gifts that would give the adorable brunette the biggest smile. Apparently the competitive rivalry was infectious and soon everyone was determined to gift their favorite human being the best birthday present ever.
The brunette slumped heavily against the cool grey concrete, his breath short and irregular from exhaustion. He was fully aware that he was reaching his limit soon and the fact he had made almost no progress frustrated the usually calm easygoing child. The unfortunate toy had been burnt and torn to pieces from all the countless experiments and trials. Maybe it wasn't the best idea to use a non-living object Tsuna groaned as the idea that the past few hours were for naught. At least he'd had gotten reacquainted with his other flames and become more comfortable in using them. However no matter how hard he tried the flames -much to his frustration- refused to work simultaneously, they were far too pure to meld together like the brunette imagined it to be and he felt so close to getting the missing piece of the puzzle, his intuition going haywire, screaming an answer the young child couldn't hear.
*gurgle* *gurgle*
Though no one was watching Tsuna couldn't help but blush as he rubbed his tummy trying to quiet the offending noise down. With a small defeated sigh the child shakily stood up to leave for the kitchens.
As he walked through the labyrinth of halls the child couldn't help but notice a distinct lack of guards. Those that were present seemed normal at first glance but something told the brunette otherwise, he'd observe them further as his curiosity begged to be satisfied especially after such a disappointing ordeal with his flames-*gro~wl*- but first lunch.
Upon the realisation on where their favourite small child was heading to, it took a few calculated looks and glances before the fastest guard of the group quickly opened a portal and disappeared.
Swiftly the guard reappeared in the kitchen where Jager and two other Vindice as well as the usual trio of voiceless chefs turned to face the now panting guard. Short-warping was a very complex move requiring a large amount of flames and a certain endurance to take in the physical strain, even Jager the strongest Vindice couldn't push himself to do two short-warps in a short period of time.
"Tsuna-kun.. is *pant* coming this-" He didn't even need to finish his sentence for them all to piece the puzzle. Quickly in unison like a well oiled machine they all moved to cover up any sign of evidence; any cake recipes, party decorations, colourful ingredients and more. The chefs also moved to their positions as they began cooking a nice simple meal for the brunette in hopes of creating an illusion of normalcy. They too were very excited for the surprise as though they seemed even more emotionally distant than the guards even they eventually warmed up to the ever smiling little boy and over the few months the worker-client relationship with the child had broken down to more of affectionate caretaker and their personal adorable taste-tester. Working at Vindice wasn't the most appreciative enjoyable job so the little boy had been a breath of fresh air, a taste of freedom to the chefs who too felt like part of the imprisoned in Vendicare.
Once all evidence of their planning had been properly and efficiently cleaned up without a trace the cloaked guards merely gave a nod which was returned by the cooks before promptly disappearing. No sooner did their portal close up Tsuna knocked shyly at the door his eyes wide curious yet held a hidden glint of unmistakable suspicion as he sensed something wasn't entirely right. The silent individuals tensed visibly as they tried their best to ignore or at least look nonchalant when they felt the little boy's surprisingly intense gaze as if he was trying to deconstruct who they were, what they were thinking and what they could possibly hiding.
The tense silence and piercingly sharp gaze was enough to make at least a yakuza boss shift in discomfort and the cooks were no exception to the pressure, only their resolve and image of seeing a happy Tsuna eating the birthday cake they so carefully made stopped them from just breaking down and telling the endearing child everything- they couldn't talk but for some reason hand gestures and facial expressions were enough for the kid to understand what they were saying strangely enough.
Slowly the harsh edge of the gaze softened as a small growl was heard in the small belly of the now blushing brunette as the child remembered why he came in the first place. A soft raspy wheezing could be heard in the kitchen indicating the closest indication to the mute individuals' chuckling at how adorable it all was. Silently and robotically they handed the child a small bowl of steaming white rice, dried fish, miso soup and a side of pickled plum- the usual plain lunch however one by one the three cooks gave a gentle pat on the fluffy head before handing the assorted pieces of the dish. The soon to be three year old flashed a large smile as he accepted the rare show of affection and emotion from the usually robotic silent cooks. The young boy happily waved his goodbyes to the people in the kitchen as he left with his meal, apparently all suspicion completely forgotten.
As he walked down the hall to his usual eating corner Tsuna couldn't help but furrow his brow as he remembered the strange atmosphere as he came into the kitchen. Everything looked completely normal, nothing unusual was out of place and everyone was acting like usual yet the little feeling inside him was telling him that something was definitely off, the feeling didn't sense anything particularly dangerous so the brunette didn't bother to question it but still, it was definitely fishy. Fishy. Mmmnn fish. *gro~wl*
Blushing all previous thoughts were cast away as Tsuna focussed on sitting down and enjoying his meal. Well he was still just a kid after all and soon his wary attitude was quickly forgotten as he indulged in the meal while it was still hot and delicious. Suddenly the child's ears pricked up sensing the almost non-existent sound of footsteps coming his direction, with a cheeky smile his eyes glowed a dark indigo as flames of the same colour covered his hands as he began speedily constructing an illusion around himself to make him invisible. Though the speed he created the illusion was fast the child made sure to be meticulously careful, if he wanted to try and surprise the Vindice his illusion had to be perfect- he'd never been able to fool them but maybe the seventy-eight time will be the charm.
This particular illusion must have been really, really good or the guards passing were very, very distracted as the group passed by not even sparing the corner a glance. Tsuna was sorely tempted to unveil himself, excited and proud that he'd finally managed to accomplish one of his many goals whilst living in Vendicare however he stopped himself as he overheard shreds of conversation, piquing his curiosity.
"And what's in it for you?" The raspy voice of a female Vindice demanded haughtily, something most of the other guards could only dream of when talking to the strongest Vindice warrior.
"I merely wish to input some of my own suggestions into Tsuna's gifts." The deeper voice replied almost silkily, his rough cracked edge only resulting in a more seductive effect. Really a lesser person would have swooned from the voice alone and it only further confirmed the man to be a womaniser in his past life, unfortunately this was the Vindice and the Vindice held no lesser man or woman. Unfazed the female continued. "Suggestions?"
A rustling of fabric as the tall powerful Vindice pulled out a notepad from his black coat, the female frowned slightly knowing full well that Jager's clothes usually held no pockets and she had full view of his hands beforehand. The mystery was pushed to the side as she looked over the etchings scrawled in the paper sweat dropping slightly at the apparent talent her senior had hidden. With a careful eye she flipped through all the designs and gave a short sharp business-like nod in approval quietly slipping the notepad in the bag full of sewing materials. Her nod was returned and a silent agreement was made.
As the two parted ways Jager combed through his wavy raven hair with his fingers. The first part of his present was done, true he had done less than half of the work but he did promise to supply the female Vindice's group with any necessary supplies and he did put surprisingly a lot of thought in those designs. Jager didn't hate doing work per say, it was that if there was an option to exert less energy whilst still achieving the same outcome he would take it in a heartbeat. Ironically though Tsuna had brought out the more lazier side to him that had been repressed along with all other more human aspects of him, the child has also brought out a side of him he didn't even realize resided in him. He'd never been so driven, so enthusiastic when it came to anything- not even when he served his master Bermuda when he was still alive.
When had this change started? The Vindice warrior couldn't but wonder to himself, he was sure only Bermuda and he were really aware how different everyone was. Yes at first he thought the young'n was amusing, it had been so damn long since he had laughed and it was the first of many much to his pleasure. But when had he seen the boy as more as just something amusing to watch instead he became someone he cared for, became someone he acknowledged as a Sky? Was it when Tsuna accepted who they where despite appearances, that he didn't judge what they did, even go as far as respect and understand? Or was it something else, something deeper that not even the cruel, feared Vindice could have fought against if they tried?
Eight months. It had taken eight months and one Sawada Tsunayoshi for the Vindice to change. For the better or worse he wasn't sure. But- and he smiled as he remembered the many memories he shared with the boy- right now he wasn't regretting any of it.
Breaking from his musings Jager took out a batch of documents all holding some sort of information. Blackmail wasn't a popular skill used in the Vindice preferring to just cast judgement and jail them with no hesitation however individuals who gotten off with warnings had always been fairly… grateful for the pardon. It was almost amusing on how fast the large amount of favours were being used up for a mere child but after all it wasn't just any child they were using it for. It was for Tsuna.
It was time for his usual monthly visits to Namimori. The brunette almost didm't want to go- not just because of Nana but because he was just getting closer to figuring out how to create a flame that can make the Vindice part of the living again. He had a lost lost hope a couple of times but his resolve pushed him through. The child realised that what he had needed to do was to actually combine his flames- letting mist and sun attributes be used simultaneously with some of the rain element thrown in as well. The combination seemed to work okay in both practice and theory when coupled with Sky-san who seemed to make them work almost harmoniously. Tsuna wondered if there were a whole possibility of other compatible combinations out there he could make with his flames. Just thinking about it made him shiver in excited anticipation.
As Tsuna waved happily goodbye to the usual guards Ario, Fico and Emilio who accompanied him to Namimori he noticed the trio being unusually jittery, even more so than the past week and a half as they were more easily readable than before- the child didn't even have to try to observe any strange signs! It wasn't just acting unusually nervous for the calm and composed Vindice but sometimes a few of the guards would come by and ask some strange questions. He remembered a pretty memorable time when Small Gia asked how he would like his own torture chamber filled with crocodiles personally trained by him only to be dragged away by his partner Pino.
However the little feeling in his head told him not to question it so he simply didn't, putting on a big smile to reassure the trio he watched them enter back in the magic black portal connecting back to Vendicare absentmindedly wondering when they'll get to teach him that amazing spell. Once they left the fluffy child quickly and quietly slipped into the Sawada household, rushing up the stairs to his so-called bedroom not wishing to be confronted yet by the lady of the house.
After entering the safe vicinity of his room then Tsuna allowed himself to breathe, he was grateful for all those lessons to help him be all sneaky-sneaky since he got heaps better at hide and seek, though he usually got caught due to his clumsiness more than anything. However the moment the sigh escaped his lips the door slammed open as a bolt of golden blonde practically tackled the thin brunettes to the ground with a large *thud*!
"TSU-CHAN! Tsu! Tsu! Tsu!"
All sense of maturity dissolved once he was with Ieyasu and soon there was just sounds of giggling and tumbling together. Finally once they were out of breath they finally released the almost iron-like grip they had on each other. Reunited once again the two began talking about what they did without the other so it felt like no time had been lost, it was the usual routine but Tsuna could not ask for more. The brunette made sure to be very careful on what he said though, he told his brother about his magic training, the fun antics he got up to with everyone (mainly Jack, Gia and even Jager-san when he was avoiding his duties) but became very vague in who this mysterious group really was. He may only be the younger brother but he held a duty to protect his family all the same, he knew no matter how nice everyone in Vendicare was the place was still very dangerous and even he had areas he was forbidden to enter. Even though the child was aware of the consequences he still wished to show off his amazing friends. Maybe when he found a way to change their appearances he could introduce them to Ieyasu. The brunette grinned brightly at the thought. Yes. That's exactly what he would do.
They had three days to finally get everything ready and organised for their little Sky's big day. It was possibly the most hectic time the Vendicare had ever encountered since it's foundation centuries ago. There were arguments from colour choices to types of food being served. Silver, black, white and orange streamers hanged off balloons each a colour of the flames of the sky. A large dining table had been ordered to accommodate as many Vindice guards as possible and a specially made chair for the birthday boy. The prisoners were forced to sample various dishes from the cooking staff and were chosen to settle various debates by choosing which colour scheme or which dish was better- obviously the losing party did not take the decision well and personally tortured the poor victim with a cruel and unusual punishment much to the imprisoned's dismay.
Since the guards couldn't actually go outside without drawing attention to their appearances nor was able to rely on the very tiny amount of mist-flame users they had to rely on the various favours they accumulated to get or even help custom-make their gifts, making sure their top priority was getting the best of the best. Jack was possibly the first one to dive into the favours box quickly getting his chosen person's information and teleporting to ask for the payment for the other's so called debt. He might not be the smartest guard in Vendicare but he could proudly boast he was definitely one of the closest to Tsuna and was confident in his gift idea- he just needed the skills of a certain Vongola hired engineer who had a while back gone a little to far with his robotics.
"Giannichi. Vongola's best weapon tuner."
The engineer jumped at the sudden intimidatingly raspy hollow voice behind him. He recognised non too fondly that voice that broke even the strongest of men in a cold sweat. He turned to only confirm his fears when he faced the cloaked bandaged guard who strangely enough didn't have any companions. "P-please." The man cursed himself for stuttering. "I haven't done anything to break the rules since the last tim-" "I am here to discuss a repayment to that particular debt." " -I have a son you know? And Vongola will not allow me to be taken… eh?"
Giannichi stared jaw open so wide it was a wonder it wasn't touching the floor, he couldn't help it! This Vindice guard was asking for a request. A Vindice guard of all people- if they actually were human. However he certainly wasn't going to say no to the guard of the most feared group of enforcers in the mafia. Composing himself to the best of his abilities he answered in a business-like albeit slightly weary tone. "So. What do you want me to make?"
For a second the best weapon tuner could have swore under those bandages he saw the guard flash a fiery grin.
As the brunette happily munched on the meagre amount of cold leftovers that Ieyasu thankfully provided him under the table Tsuna couldn't help noticing Nana's good mood as she whistled a merry tune as she continued to cook. It must be something great since usually her mood is soured by his presence, a short sharp pain rang in the boy's young heart as he thought this. But he stubbornly ignored that traitorous side of him that still yearned for a mother's warmth. He had the Vindice now. Why couldn't this need disappear? He had already came to terms with this strained broken excuse for a relationship but it still hurt. The sharp edge of the dagger was dulled but at the same time getting stabbed by a dulled dagger can in it's own way hurt much worse than a sharpened blade.
"Mama! Why you so happy?" The brunettes increasingly darkening thoughts were cut short much to his relief as he listened in to the conversation forming between his beloved twin and his mother.
"Ara? Didn't you know Iey-kun~?" The youngest twin couldn't help but bitterly think how the woman had purposely ignored him. "Nope mama!"
It was almost grating to the poor child how happy they were, how perfect a family they were without him. However he mentally pushed the thought away as in preference to feeding his hungry stomach with delicious albeit cold food. "Well it's your birthday today Iey-kun! I've invited a~ll your friends to come over in the afternoon!" "Ee~eh? Really!?"
The brunette stopped chewing, the food in his mouth felt suddenly dry and stale. He was no idiot. He knew very damn well the two shared birthdays and what the woman was cruelly implying. Swallowing dryly Tsuna decided for once to try stand up for himself.
"B-but mother. What about… about…" His voice usually so clear was found wavering and fading off much to his horror, it was like those nightmares where no matter how hard he tried his voice just would't work. Ieyasu sensing his younger counterpart's dilemma gave a reassuring pat on the back making sure Nana wasn't looking when he did so. Instantly the brunette could feel waves of calm wash over him, secretly he gave a small smile to his elder twin whose blue eyes seemed to flash with understanding and sympathy. Before he could make another shaky embarrassing attempt to talk Ieyasu beat him to it. "But mama. Wha 'bout Tsu?"
Instantly the room seemed to go cold, even ice cubes would shiver if they could. "Ara? Oh Iey-kun don't be silly." The older woman smiled her usual smile but the two boys with their intuition couldn't help but shudder at how her eyes didn't seem to reflect any of the warmth she usually gave. "Tsunayoshi doesn't have a birthday."
Tsuna couldn't help but give a sharp inhale of air. It must have been obvious that he was in pain emotionally because one look from the blonde and a flash of dark anger swept in those wide blue eyes. "Mama! Tha not right! Tsu and I have the same birthday!" This was probably the first real time his big brother was really standing up for him, too bad the child was too busy trying not to cry to appreciate the moment. "No, no, no Iey-kun~." She gave her sickly sweet smile and the brunette tensed already feeling a bit of bile come up his throat. "I made a mistake. Tsunayoshi has a birthday… he just doesn't deserve one."
That comment hit harder than any punch or injury he'd ever encountered whilst training with the Vindice, it burned harsher than any flame. That pitying almost apologetic look from his brother was only salt to the metaphorical gaping wound. The fact his own twin had done nothing but accept the unreasonableness of it all and the idea that he was so unwanted by his own flesh and blood… "E-excuse me." With that small almost whisper of a reply Tsuna left the table and almost ran to his room.
Tsuna loved his counterpart dearly and he knew the other did as well but sometimes he felt so childishly jealous and angry at the other. As he curled up in his empty dark room listening to the laughter and music coming downstairs as if mocking him Tsuna found this moment to be one of those times. He hated that Ieyasu never fought for him, never defied their mother no matter how much she was picking on him yet he couldn't bring himself to hate his brother and instead accepted his cowardliness as well as his other faults.
The feeling of the unfairness of it all filled his tiny body as the loneliness seeped through the walls suffocatingly and it scared him. Big honey brown eyes glittered with unshed tears threatening to spill out despite all his resistance. Crying isn't something befitting one with Vindice pride he scolded himself. As he rubbed his eyes harshly as if trying to push the tears away he couldn't stop a small hiccup of cries from his mouth. That seemed to be the trigger to a small breakdown and soon all sense of coolheaded logic was stripped away as he began to truly show his age as he cried and sobbed his broken soul out into his pillows. Only sleep comforted him away from the hurt in his heart.
Caramel brown eyes flickered open to be greeted by not the whitewash walls of his bedroom of Namimori but more familiar grey ones. With a small groan the child groggily sat up looking at the time on his clock- 4:00 - he had probably been carried here whilst sleeping when he was supposed to be picked up by 3. Looking at the ground the child noticed with some surprise that instead of the usual grey carpeting there was an orange painted line leading from his bed to the closed door.
Ever curious and without even a shred of suspicion the brunette decided to follow this mystery line and where it could possibly lead. The halls seemed much to quiet as he followed the orange paint. Usually there would at least be a trio of guards monitoring the area but there was simply no one there. Even though the Vindice were always quiet to the point that even a leaf falling on the ground could be heard better than their footsteps Tsuna could always sense their presence on some level. But right now he couldn't sense anyone at all and a part of him began to worry and grow wary at the lack of activity. What if something bad happened to them?! Maybe a dangerous criminal escaped?! Maybe the curse did something?! What if-
"HAPPY BIRTHDAY TSUNA!"
"HIEEEE!?" The young child yelped in a rather unmanly way. Once he got his hysteria under control he took a good look at the place he had been lead to. The line ended with a painting of what can only be assumed as a flame. Written in gold were the words congratulations. Tsuna found himself in the throne room- or supposed to be the throne room. Every guard was gathered wearing shiny pointed hats or other strange looking items on their heads, the room was filled with balloons and streamers of various colours decorating the usual drab greys upon greys that were signature to Vendicare. In the middle of the room was a large table filled to the brim with beautifully assorted food and various desserts that could have come straight out of one of Tsuna's picture books, it looked so fantastical. Tsuna had to blink a few times to make sure he wasn't dreaming.
When he had made a hundred percent sure he was awake the brunette couldn't help but tear up with happiness. A few of the guards (mainly the females) couldn't stop coo-ing over how cute a teary Tsuna was as the child smiled so wide and happily that everyone felt a huge sense of accomplishment at the image. "Well what are you freaking waiting for kid?" Jack grinned lopsidedly showing some charred teeth which a lifetime and a betrayal ago would have been pearly white. "Let's get this party started!"
It wasn't as festive nor certainly as loud (they had with the help of Tsuna grown livelier but that still wasn't enough for them to break their usual quiet habits)as the birthday his elder twin was having but the brunette was sure that this was definitely the best party ever. And he didn't mind voicing how great it was to everyone much to their delight, pride and relief. It had been a long time since they all had experienced any sort of celebration and possibly for the first time in a long time they could have felt something akin to nervous insecurity on whether their little Sky would enjoy it.
They couldn't decide on what type of birthday cake they wanted to give for Tsuna- someone suggested orange but a hundred others harshly shot it down, the same could be said to other suggestions, there was a huge war on chocolate versus vanilla and even more fights that may or may not have resulted in the physical damage to the Vendicare prison environment and it's property and prisoners- so they settled for a compromise.
Tsuna's large honey brown eyes widened and glittered with childish awe and excitement as he saw the large cake decorated to show a rainbow in the night sky and he giggled in absolute delight as he realised each colour held a different flavour. The chefs had the honour of helping the child with his serving, taking careful care to let the boy sample each individual flavour. Every time he tasted a piece of the cake the child would make sure to savour it slowly then Tsuna would cutely scrunch up his face in deep thought and suddenly shout out in excitement what sort of taste he thought the flavour belonged to. Everyone just smiled their gentle small smiles reserved solely for the brunette as they thought how endearing this child was, it was even more adorable when the kid couldn't help but make a huge mess of himself- even getting a bit of dark chocolate frosting on the top of his nose!
Chuckling at the brunette's antics Jager reached down to wipe away the frosting, however Tsuna who didn't notice the Vindice warrior reaching toward him unconsciously reacted by trying to hit the unknown entity in self defense. Of course the punch gave no effect on the strong guard though what it did produce was cake and frosting half smeared onto a certain Strongest Vindice Warrior's face.
There was silence.
Then a harsh laughter was heard echoing and everyone turned their attention to the the laughing individual with faded red hair. "HAHAHA oh shit! You should have seen your freaking face when y-" Jack was suddenly cut off as a piece of the cake had hit him square in the eyes.
Wiping off the red frosting off his face he glared at the slightly smirking Jager and with a mischievous glint in his jet-black eyes the fiery guard scooped up the closest piece of food he could find. Everyone sweat dropped as possibly the most childish of the Vindice, Gia who never couldn't resist a chance to rile things up quickly joined in and it all devolved from there.
It took only a few minutes before everyone had joined in, there were guards actually using their portals in order to achieve a better aim at their opponents, even Bermuda had joined in at some point. A certain brunette found himself also throwing small pies and handfuls of desserts or shouting and revealing guards that were about to attack another. Tsuna having the time of his life couldn't stop laughing at the whole scenario, it was even more amusing since the Vindice seemed to take everything seriously- apparently even when food fighting. Though he was very sure the chefs will not be happy about all this wasted food and mess the day after.
Soon the battle settled down- mainly because there had been no more food left to be thrown- and it was time to open presents. A very sticky, smiling three-year old sat in the middle of the floor as each guard or group of guards began offering their presents. Many had given him various books ranging from fantasy novels to encyclopaedias to comic books, each one either a first edition, personally signed by the author or in mint condition. Some books were even on the topics of flame use or stories of the mafia. Others gave him things ranging from specially made charms to some very intricate rings that they told Tsuna would help with when he played with his magic. But Tsuna accepted all gifts with equal delight and joy.
The female Vindice had possibly the largest present in sheer quantity alone. They had spent the last few weeks sewing various custom-made outfits for the cute brunette using only their own imaginations and Tsuna's moe-ness to push their limited home-economic skills to their limits, luckily Jager was willing to help supply any materials needed- even the rare flame-resistant ones. The main outfit had been from Jager's design- a mini Vindice uniform almost identical to Bermuda's except for the fact Tsuna's was white in colour with vibrant orange feather lining in his cloak and equally orange bandages decorating his top hat. Immediately taken to the costume the child rushed off to get cleaned and changed into the new outfit, strutting it around proudly as everyone squealed (internally or voiced it physically) at how cute he was. They even took pictures of the child and a slightly embarrassed though a very flattered Bermuda with the new camera the birthday boy had received as a present.
Next were the strongest Vindice guards turns to gift their favourite child. Alejandro presented a mini Tsuna puppet as well as various other Vindice puppets he had hand-crafted himself, something he hadn't done since he created the Gingerbread doll series which had been only used for the destruction of familigias. He promised a very excited Tsuna with a small chuckle that didn't match his usual ice-cold demeanour, that he would spend some time teaching the boy how to properly manipulate the dolls on a later date.
Small Gia and Big Pino came after handing the child an assortment of various weapons, artillery and other such dangerous items completely ignoring the glares of the other guards. "Keh. Happy birthday kid. We wish you to be ever strong and whatever." As they turned to walk away Tsuna looked up from his gifts of what he could sense were well cared for and individually polished weaponry to smile. "Thanks very much Gia-san, Pino-san- I hope yew will help teach me how to use them later." The smaller of the pair tch-ed ignoring the warm feeling almost fluttering inside him. "Obviously." He muttered as Pino just pupipup-ed knowingly smug.
Jack held out a very badly wrapped red parcel proudly in which Tsuna accepted it with equal fervour. Inside the parcel was headphones- a fiery red with the number 27 imprinted on the outsides and fur lining on the insides- an iPod and two red bracelets which also had a number 27 imprinted on them. "I know yer always humming and stuff so I thought you would like this freaking music stuff." The red-head explained. "I already got a few songs in there already and the bracelets and headphones can work as freaking stereos when you press a certain passcode onto the iPod too!" The brunette gave such a spine tingling smile Jack felt like he had been hit by lightening- in a good way- and when the child gave him a big hug to show his appreciation the guard couldn't help but hug (a little awkwardly with the height difference) back.
Jäger also seemed to have a similar idea to Jack's as he presented the child with a Karaoke machine. At this point the brunette felt like he could just burst with happiness. "Will everyone come sing with me too?!" All the guards who initially were watching over fondly tensed- singing was never in their long list of expertise and honestly given a chance they would immediately turn the person down when offered. However as they looked into those big puppy dog eyes they felt compelled to nod their heads in agreement to the charming child's request. By the look on the co-founder of Vindice's face, the man had completely planned it for his amusement. With a widening even more annoyingly apparent smirk Jager added. "There's also a dance feature included."
The party had lasted long into the night and it was time to send Tsuna off to bed. Bermuda was the one to suddenly announce he would be escorting the brunette to his sleeping quarters while the rest continue to drink and be merry. It took the sleepy child a few minutes to notice something strange. "Ummm… Bermuda-san? This isn't the way to my room." The arcobaleno continued on without missing a step. "I know child. This is the way to my room- you are sleeping with me tonight." This instantly caused the young boy's tiredness to disappear as he looked up curious and intrigued. He had been invited to see the interior of a few of the guard's rooms and they all had pretty much been the same as his own, however Bermuda unlike the others had been completely closed off in that he never revealed even a small hint of his past.
Bermuda's room was definitely larger than most of the others, his bed was a king-sized one with black silk sheets and simple white pillows- the size was much bigger than most other's which the child thought a little strange considering the other's size. Other than the bed however the brunette noticed very little of anything else in the room, it seemed to just be what it was- a bedroom, nothing more, nothing less. No photos, no items that held memories, nothing.
"Come child." The voice was softer, warmer and it took Tsuna a second to recognise the voice to belong to Bermuda without it's usual intimidating tone. Any nervousness melted away as a sense of safety filled him. Complying to the request the brunette squirmed into the large bed with the arcobaleno, a little surprised that the other was in pyjamas - also the colour of night- yet still wore his bandages. But the child did not question it, he knew when the time is right Bermuda himself will tell him and he will wait patiently for when that day comes.
"Night Bermuda-san." He murmured drowsily as his eyelids grew heavier with each passing moment. The small brunette snuggled closer to the other and almost purred when a tiny bandaged hand stroked his head. The elder of the two chuckled softly at such an endearing sight. This small child had slowly but surely unlocked the many, many chains he had locked onto his heart and soon they'll be no more chains to protect his heart. That thought scared the Night flame wielder more than he would ever care to admit to himself but it did. He knew there will be a time when he would pass on and he knew that time will be sometime in the foreseeable future. Before the child came into their lives they all lived for the sole purpose of revenge, planning to throw away their lives in order to seek vengeance on the damned Checkerface but now…
Now they had something else in their lives they wanted to live for. Now they had Tsuna.
Bermuda was no saint. He was a selfish, cruel man. He would use anything and everything in order to give the revenge he so richly craved for and still find a way to have Tsuna by his side like this- warm and safe. When the time draws closer he knew that his goals will be harder and harder to achieve if he kept aiming for both. One day he would have to choose and it will be a day something will be lost forever but right now as he stroked the child's soft brown hair to sleep Bermuda decided to just enjoy this moment with the child and let it be till later.
As he watched the small figure, do delicate and fragile falling slowly closer to sleep Bermuda began to hum a soft tune as he continued comfortingly stroking the other's fluffy hair. Soon the humming was accompanied by murmuring words till before the the arcobaleno realised it he had began singing a soothing lullaby.
From the time your hand
Didn't fit round my finger
The first time that I saw you smile
I realized why I'm alive
A smile graced his lips as the boy unconsciously leaned toward his touch.
And that time we
First saw you enter you shocked me
And when I saw you asleep with eyes filled with tears
Let's still be clear, why I'm here
He felt himself tense a bit when he saw the brunette in the Sawada household asleep from obviously crying whilst a party of all things was going on downstairs. He wasn't aware of such poor negligence on Tsuna during his visits and he sorely wished he had been a bit more observant.
He would have noticed the signs - how the child would always eat a little more after coming back from Vendicare, how he barely mentioned his visits and more importantly how little a fuss was made when Tsuna had left home. As if almost sensing the growing animosity and anger of the older male the brunette furrowed his brows slightly and snuggled tighter to the other figure. Bermuda relaxed in response, there was something in Tsuna that seemed to calm him. He continued to quietly sing.
When life throws you arrows and makes you feel small
My love for you, child, will conquer it all
He continued to look fondly on at the child, cherishing the moment and the memories and of what is to come in the future.
So you don't have to worry
Won't let the big bad world get you
No you don't have to worry
Won't let the big bad world get you no way~
At this point he stopped sining as he felt the other's breathing even out, a sign he was deeply asleep. With a smile Bermuda stroked the other's hair one more time and hesitantly, almost shyly gave a small peck on the forehead.
"Happy Birthday Tsuna. May the night forever protect the sky."
Yeah I know it's waaaay past Tsu's actually birthday but sue me. The idea came and I wasn't waiting a whole year to post this lol.
Also that song is mainly from Big, Bad World by Guy Sebastian (suitable right?) They'll probs be more of that in the future too btw
ok well cyaaaa hope you liked!