Hi Hi~~
Wow longest chapter everrr~~ (Like holy freaking crap this is a lot of words)
Anyway I am SO sorry for being so late in updating this- I scrapped like 2 different chapters before deciding on this idea, then I ran out of inspiration and when I finally got some, well lets just say there was a series of misfortunate accidents set out to stop my chapter. (glares at the invisible deity sabotaging my stuff)
Honestly I'm still not completely happy with this but nonetheless hope you like~
At least you can see my new stories like Bloody Sky ;D (cough yes I'm shamelessly asking you guys to read it cough lol cough oh and Colour Me Stupid cough god I suck)
Ok I have decided that all omakes will be mainly just random parts of the timeline so events like first Halloween or something shall be omake type stuff- cuz we really need to get a move on in introducing new characters~ (of course that means I'm going to bother you all with makes a lot more now XD)
Also I made a new poll! (yaay) I hope you guys to look at it and choose interesting/strange shippings cuz I really want to see that~ XD
And (sorry for this being so long you can skip to story if ya want to now) I shall now answer the most common questions I've seen on the reviews. Because repeating my self is such a pain and I'm lazy.
-Is Mukuro/Reborn/Gokudera coming soon?
NO. I'm sorry but I really want canon to stay as canon as possible in terms of guardians and Reborn. Hibari may or may not be an exception because.. well. Hibari.
Also I already had an idea on how they meet in canon a~nd I wasn't really aware Mukuro was locked up in Vendicare... (looks down ashamed) however there is various smaller branches of Vendicare so it is still plausible that they would not meet. I dunno. I'll figure it out later lol.
-Is there going to be pairings? Is this Ber27?
NO. (Dammit how I wish it was) However I do plan to make a spin off in the future where I put ten alternate timeline endings with TEN different semes - and YES Bermuda is one of them. (see if you can guess the other nine lol.)
Well I think that's all I needed to say. Hopefully.
Ah also the song snippets in there is Beautiful Soul -Jesse Mccartney, Titanium- ft Sia, Haven't Met You Yet- Michael Buble, Livin la Vida Loca- Ricky Martin, 1973- James Blunt and All Star- Smash Mouth. (I own nothing but my limited creativity and ideas)
Anyway I hope you enjoy~~
A Fight, A Portal And... An Alligator?!
"Pleaasssee~~~"
"Tsuna you know I love you."
"Well that doesn't answer the question."
"Tsuna..."
"I am six years old now Bermuda!"
"And that is still too young." Bermuda's voice was firm and strict.
The brunette pouted as he put his hands on his hips defiantly looking at the Vindice Boss straight where his eyes should be under those bandages. Honestly he wanted to be more patient, he really did but it has been just about four years since he'd been under the care of the Vindice and goddammit he wanted to know!
"Can't you at least teach me the basics on creating a warp hole?"
The Night Arcobaleno looked thoughtfully as he contemplated the compromise. He didn't want to fight with his favourite human child anymore, Tsuna was always a very selfless boy who barely asked for anything so fighting was extremely rare. It was even more so when a fight lasted more than an hour or two. All the jailers in the past had experience in negotiation not to mention seduction, manipulation and coercion. However this fight had lasted for months. It had started off small and when the arcobaleno first declined the boy let it go for a while. But slowly the little rejections built up until apparently the fluffy brunette no longer could take another 'no' as an answer. He didn't want to fight Tsuna as much as the other wanted to fight him but whilst admittedly the child was a genius in flame manipulation- his still delicate child's body would be unable to take the strain of warping.
Hell the Vindice were powerful undead fully grown human beings and the first time they tried the technique they were exhausted to the point of paralysis.
Abruptly a rather sneaky loophole popped into the bandaged baby's mind. He just hoped the child wouldn't get too mad.
"Fine."
Immediately the brunette perked up. Honey brown eyes wide and shimmering with unrestrained happiness, lips curved in a victorious yet not smug smile- his gravity defying hair even seemed to fluff up a bit more. A little pang of cold guilt pierced the Vindice Boss's conscious at the sight- and when he meant pierce he meant like a sharp glacier stabbing him. 'It's for his own good.' He assured himself.
"Okay listen well child..."
As Bermuda began instructing the boy on the makings of Night flame portals at an alarmingly fast rate making sure to use amazingly difficult complicated technical terms even Tsuna with his extensive vocabulary would have trouble with and varying his voice from loud to soft making it even harder for the other to understand the guards watching the scene all focussed their attention on a twitching brunette. This was probably the closest to the child throwing a tantrum and honestly they weren't that surprised. After all Tsuna despite his maturity emotionally, mentally and even physically, he was still a six year old child. And after months of debates and arguments only to be tricked well- lets just say even the more emotional of the Vindice would have cracked a little in sheer frustration and anger.
Of course while they felt sorry for the boy they too understood where their Boss was coming from. Each had their own tale to tell when they first tried warping. Maybe it was surprising for anyone to hear but they were technically still human. And so there are bound to be a few mistakes on their polished silver records- not that they'll ever tell anyone (with possibly the exception of Tsuna of course if he asked with those puppy dog eyes that had the power to crumble their resolve). Some failed completely the first time and created just a circle filled with Night flames. Needless to say their already mangled skin suffered more than a few burns.
Some got transported to a completely unknown location, from the other side of the world to even a parallel dimension (those portals were particularly unstable). Some actually lost a limb or some other part of them due to unable to maintain the flames long enough. Some even lost their memory temporarily.
But in the end after an exact time of three hours every single one of them would all begin to feel incredibly numbing exhaustion settle in underneath their skin like hardening cement poured into their bodies. It was a terrifying and painful experience that each had to go through. But they couldn't bear to let a young child as pure and loved as Tsuna go through it. The risks far outweighed any such benefits. Hopefully the boy would understand later on in his life.
As Tsuna listened to the incomprehensible words leaving the Night Arcobaleno's mouth he could feel so many emotions bubbling up inside him. He felt so uncontrollably upset.
In Vendicare warping was literally the only way to move between rooms and floors with the exception of the hidden passages and the one staircase to each level. However the passages were so complex and unused the original maps for them were buried God knows where under various other files. He had been lucky the first time he found a passage but he finally understood it's downfalls when one time he almost dropped into a pit of giant spikey metal things.
And while deep inside he knew that every guard loved him the brunette still felt that pang of insecurity. That feeling he didn't belong and could leave without anyone even noticing let alone caring. He wanted to be independent so he didn't have to burden anyone. Tsuna knew that when he had to ask a passing guard to help him go feed his charge's as his daily duty he was interrupting the other's own duties. The brunette didn't want to inconvenience the jailers with his own incompetence, deep down he feared they would tire of him. The child couldn't bear the possibility of losing another family. Especially one as precious as them.
So when Bermuda finally relented in teaching him how to warp he was ecstatic. The brunette had full faith that if it was anyone the boss of Vendicare would understand his feelings, he even shared with the bandaged baby his insecurities and his past with his mother- though he made him pinky swear not to tell even Jäger. When Bermuda began spouting confusing nonsense at a ridiculously fast rate he was confused. The other user of the Night flame was usually so clear to comprehend after all. And when he realized Bermuda was purposely doing this he felt hurt. Angered. Sad. Maybe even a little betrayed.
He didn't understand why, he couldn't. The logical part of his brain was drowned in childish reasoning and emotions. It was so strong, so sudden that Tsuna couldn't even comprehend the words that came out of his mouth. The emotions were just blurring everything and it confused him. It was almost like his feelings were acting on impulse.
"You're doing this on purpose!"
He shouted clearly cutting off the arcobaleno's confounding explanation. Like a chainsaw against soft plastic. Everyone present were shocked into silence. Tsuna had never made an outburst like that. He was a cute quiet rather timid child that didn't even like communicating through words. One time when the boy was particularly upset at a certain jailer he stalked out the undead guard's schedule then made scathing notes related to their particular argument (as well as a few insults) and posted them everywhere right before the guard would pass by the area. This happened for four days till the jailer broke down and apologized. Since then the particular guard developed an aversion to post-it notes. It was probably the most aggressive the little boy had ever been. But this- this was a whole different level to Tsuna's anger. He must have been really upset. And he wasn't done yet.
"You twicked me! A-and I- How could you be swo mean! Wh- I thought you were better than this!" Tears were filling up in large caramel brown eyes that threatened to fall out at any second. The small form was trembling with emotion. Bermuda wanted so badly to take back his decision but he held firm. He knew this was the correct decision. And the Vindice Boss was painfully aware that the most correct decisions weren't exactly the most painless. But as the boy began unraveling before his eyes worry turned to frustration.
Couldn't Tsuna see it was for his own good?! Why was he so angry at this of all things. Why couldn't he understand? It had been so long since he had gotten close to anyone, to have truly interact with someone hell it had been so long since he'd seen a living human being. Bermuda had forgotten how to handle such social situations. Tsuna being what he and everyone else's image of a perfect adorable child didn't really enlighten them much either. The boy had always held a maturity for his age and to see him just breakdown... The Night flame user just didn't know what to do and it both confused, angered and frustrated him.
The child didn't understand what was happening to him. It was like he couldn't control himself as he was physically overcome with emotions. He could feel a hot tear run down his cheek but he stubbornly tried to hold the rest in. He could feel the chaotic flickering of all his flames inside him agitating him even more. His throat was sore and raspy from overusing his voice and trying to choke down the sobs but his mouth kept going. Finally it came to the point where he said what he could only regret later on.
"I-I-I HATE YOU!"
*SLAP*
The sharp sting of pain rendered the child speechless in shock.
"Don't ever say that again Tsuna." The bandaged arcobaleno grounded out sternly with a tone that demanded obedience.
The Vindice boss must have been truly angered and hurt by his words if he raised a hand against the boy.
Tsuna wanted to apologize. He really truly did. He knew he was acting unreasonable. Immature. Like a child. Unsuitable to uphold the Vindice pride. But no words could come out of his trembling mouth. Just like that incident. His vision was blurring under his tears. Before he could make a fool of himself again he ran out of the room, trying his hardest to stifle the sobs wracking his throat. It was already too late for his tears.
The room with the remaining jailers and guards was filled with tension. "O-oi... shouldn't we freaking go after him?" Jack finally asked hesitantly breaking the silence. "No. Leave the child be." Bermuda all but ordered before turning to go to his office, Jäger also following behind. "He just needs to cool his head for a bit."
When their bosses left the jailers too began slowly moving out, not wanting to remain with the memory still fresh in their minds. Maybe Bermuda was right. Maybe all Tsuna needs is a little time to himself.
But why did all of them feel like something was going to happen?
It was like a squirming writhing black thing inside him as it felt like he was chocking on nothing but his overflowing chaotic emotions. Tsuna hated the feeling as he sobbed and screamed into his pillow. His whole body, still thin and small was now shaking like a leaf in the winter wind. The brunette had never lost himself like that before. And right now he didn't know how to shut it off. It scared him. No this feeling of helplessness against something so uncontrollable was terrifying.
It took a good hour to calm down a little to think straight. The slight sting on his cheek was still there and his small hands hesitantly touched the spot he'd been slapped. He'd been beaten bloody and cut on numerous occasions but that was different. It was for training. Somehow that slap felt way worse than any of his previous injuries combined. No book had ever told him such things and right now Tsuna cursed his inexperience to understand himself. All he did know was he had to do something.
Absentmindedly he summoned all his flames, each individual one on the tips of his little fingers. His flame manipulation training the past few years had improved greatly, he could now easily utilize all his flames and ability to a generally skilled extent. Though his research and practice with his combination flame or like he named it a while ago- Regeneration Flames, had stopped at a complete standstill. Or at least was frustratingly slow moving. It was either too painful, did nothing at all or worse- did the complete opposite. His charges on the tenth floor now all as one visibly flinched when he did his experiments every Friday afternoon. Some were traumatized to the point of throwing away their pride and begging to spare them. Tsuna always felt really bad for them so usually he cooked treats for them with the chefs beforehand. He had gotten better at cooking at least. Or well made less of a mess.
Though no matter how many treats he made a few of the more unfortunate souls still burst into tears when in sight of the Regeneration flame. To be fair a few had painfully grew things on their scars which should never grow there under any circumstances. Tsuna had to slice it off quickly before the damage became permanent. It was easy to say that there were no good memories on that day.
Honey brown eyes focused on Night-san, the dark inky black flame. As if the flame noticed the sudden attention it seemed to respond in kind by flickering much more wildly than the others. "I'm sure me and you can create those portals... But Bermuda..." The darkest flame seemed to grow bigger as if feeding from the negativity emanating the brunette. It seemed to consume and amplify those emotions of sadness, indignation and vindictive bitterness. Maybe that's why Tsuna felt the impulsive need to rebel. Or maybe it was just that he was tired of completely restraining himself to fit in. Eyes flickered orange, though slightly darker flames seemed to lick the edges of his irises, in a set stubborn determination as he looked deeply into the inky flame. "Bermuda is wrong this time."
Quickly, though a little shakily the child moved off his bed to quickly take out as many books of flame manipulation he had. If no one would teach him he'll do it himself. It wasn't an unfamiliar thing anyways. After getting the idea of it he'll start the portal construction immediately.
Despite their boss's orders the jailers couldn't help but worry. Even Small Gia the most uncaring of the lot seemed on edge as he was seen polishing the same set of knives and his favourite gun for what could be the fifth or sixth time today. Of course none wanted to confront Bermuda on his order. Not when they could feel the threat of death suffocate them even at a meter distance of his office where he'd shut himself in. The dark gloomy tense aura was practically palpable.
Finally it came round to lunchtime giving a few guards the excuse to see their beloved charge. Not wasting anytime yet not wanting to look to eager Jack, Alejandro and Small Gia glided with their smooth quick steps across the grey marble flooring with the middleman holding a tray filled with the usual simple food (though if one looked closely you'll see a few hidden treats on the dishes like a thin slice of steak underneath the salted fish or the jellies between the fruits). Once at the door the trio knocked tentatively hoping the boy had cooled off like their boss advised. But there was no answer. They tried again. Louder. Still no response. They were getting worried, all sorts of scenarios flooded their mind. And considering their intense background revolving on violence, torture and tragedy they came up with some very disturbing, very creative conclusions.
Wasting no effort Jack still holding the tray kicked the door in before rushing in followed closely by the other two. They didn't even consider the fact the door was never locked. A true testament to how concerned they were. Or how Jack always seemed to choose the more violent, destructive option when opportunity rises.
The first thing they saw was a large amount of familiar black flames dancing in a circle. Then they saw Tsuna in front of it, eyes focused in determination.
"TSUNA!" They all as one shouted in the closest to a blind panic they had ever been since they were teens.
It however was the wrong thing to do as the brunette in surprise gave out an amazingly strong amount of Night flames activating a portal. Simultaneously the child tried to turn to face the source only to trip and fall into the darkness. Caramel brown eyes widening as the last thing he saw was the bandaged jailers running toward him. Then nothing. Nothing but endless black.
Bermuda felt a strong surge of flames both like and unlike his own. It immediately snapped him out of self-loathing and regret as something more primal and unfamiliar gripped him. Fear.
He recognised that flame. He knew that flame. Immediately he slammed his desk with his hands to short warp as fast as he could to the room. But he was all too painfully aware he wouldn't make it.
'If anything happens to Tsuna I'll never forgive myself.'
It was possibly the strangest thing he had experienced.
He'd gone through portals before but he had always been guided by the hand of a guard, eyes lost in all the black. But now that he was alone it was like the space between places had changed.
It was all black yet he could see faint veins of a colour even darker. Maybe not see. Feel? Sense? Each seemed to split to various directions. The feeling was akin to him floating in the darkest depths of the oceans yet he could still breathe freely. Strangely he wasn't scared. Not really. In fact it was actually quite calming at first. Until curiosity overtook his mind and he reached out to touch one of the many veins surrounding him.
Immediately the floating feeling was gone. Replaced by a chilling, plummeting sensation. A sudden loss of air. A silence.
Then a light.
Big honey brown eyes blinked up trying to get the mess of fuzzy black and white dots hazing his vision away. Tsuna could feel cold hard metal underneath him. The smell of chemicals and oil attacked his senses. Suddenly the boy felt frightened. Scared. Terrified. The tiny body unconsciously curled into a small ball with his fluffy head facing his tucked in knees. He should have listened! He should have thought this through! He should hav-
"grawrg?"
The brunette looked up abruptly at the sudden sound, immediately wary. To his surprise he saw a giant green crocodile- no- alligator? It was about his size and it too was looking warily at him. Suddenly the fear that gripped the boy was gone as his short attention span focused onto the reptile in rapt wonderment. He'd never seen an alligator except for pictures, in fact the only animals he'd seen was dogs, cats and the occasional rat or two. Obviously his insatiable curiosity was piqued, pushing away what little self preservation he had the small child move slowly closer to the gator.
The green reptile unable to sense any ill intent nor danger didn't attack the unknown being but that didn't mean he was comfortable with said human getting closer. No matter how cute the small human was. Though it did feel flattering for the alligator to be seen with such blatant awe and appreciation. Lately his master had been neglecting him in favour of a new project, not that he minded but it did get quite lonely sometimes considering it was only the two of them in this large metal house.
The animal's thoughts were cut short when the feeling of a warm small yet larger than his own master's hand gently petted his snout. Those large eyes were so full of curiosity and completely lacking in any self-preservation of evil intentions.
"Awigator?"
If innocence and purity had a baby the alligator swore that this was literally the voice of that product. If his voice box wasn't limited to only grunts and growls the reptile would have cooed at the sound emitting from the little boy's mouth. Instead he wordlessly nudged into that little hand, encouraging more petting. It felt nice after all and the reptile couldn't sense any ill-intent or malice against him or his master. He felt himself quite liking the tiny human.
At the action the boy immediately brightened up, his smile was at the stage where it was dazzling enough to be compared to a warm sunny sky. With a squeal of what could only be described by the animal as a high pitched squeal of delight the small human practically pounced on the surprised alligator giving him a full body bear hug like one does on giant pillows and the such. The momentum of the hug-tackle pushed both rather of kilter resulting in the strange pair rolling around the floor with the reptile locked in a one-sided embrace. He could feel the soft warm body and fluffy brown hair on his scales and couldn't help but enjoy the change compared to the cold metal beneath his claws. The child was giggling excitably as they rolled around the room though after a while the reptile was beginning to feel rather dizzy.
"What the-"
Oh. He recognised that voice. That was master's voice. The green gator tried to crane his head in his rather uncomfortable position to see the rare expression of surprise on his master's face.
"What the-"
Tsuna looked up from his cuddle-fest with his newfound alligator. There at the doorway holding some very fancy complex looking thingy was a baby just like Bermuda. Though instead of bandages and black cloaks this one had unruly green hair, glasses and a white lab coat. Hanging on his chest was a green pacifier. His expression was one of shock, something told the child that the green haired male didn't usually make such a face.
Not wanting to be impolite the brunette sat up, one hand still clutching tightly to a rather unamused alligator and gave a small shy wave at the other. "Uh.. Hewwo?"
Then to everyone's surprise the mysterious greenette laughed.
To Verde this was meant to be another day like any other. He would work on his new project, feed his pet Keiman if he had the time and keep on working. His other so called peers of the Arcobaleno calls his life monotonous and boring but he just scoffs at them. It was expected from those imbeciles.
He wasn't aware how much time had passed as it usually was when he becomes engrossed in his research and work but suddenly a small beep on his computer snapped him out of his focus. Quickly he spun to his main computer where he accessed the video camera files, where there seemed to be an unknown intruder on his grounds. Whoever the presence was it had managed to skim through countless security measures even that damned greatest hitman would have trouble with and had the audacity to make itself very, very clear as a high pitched squeal was heard across metal halls. What was worse was his precious pet companion was in the same area as the unknown other. Jumping off his swivel chair and grabbing the closest weapon - a prototype gun that concentrates lightening flames-the scientist ran as fast as he could to the source.
There much to his rare surprise was a rather distraught looking Keiman wriggling around with his stubby arms and legs desperately trying to get out of the grip of a small rather fluffy looking boy no older than six but could be as young as four. The boy was wearing simple brown shorts and a light green T-shirt with an orange smiley face in the middle. Certainly not exactly suitable for an assassin or hit man. Unconsciously he couldn't help but let the words leave his lips.
"What the-"
Immediately both organism's heads looked up toward him, it looked to be an uncomfortable angle since they were on their backs at the time. The brunette seemed to be observing him just as carefully as he was observing him. Interesting. Then the child sat up, pulling a rather befuddled Keiman up with him like some sort of plush toy. He gave a small little wave and a shy smile.
"Uh... Hewwo?"
Maybe it was because of sleep deprivation, maybe it was the uncharacteristically shocked, unamused look on his reptilian companion's face or it could have just been the raw charisma of the child but the edges of the greenette's mouth twitched into a smile as a chuckle escaped. The shocked looks between the two just made his amusement deepen and the chuckle evolved into laughter. How long had he felt this? Too long.
It was a little throaty and crackly like static but it was a genuine sound. Tsuna was immediately taken to him. He liked how intriguing the male was, how he laughed and smiled that crooked smile which though faint spoke passages compared to the usual people he dealt with. Yes the brunette decided this deceptively young looking green haired baby would be his friend.
Verde was a genius among geniuses, the smartest of all the Arcobalenos and said to even the coming of the second Da Vinci. He'd written countless papers for the most renowned individuals in the scientific community, created successful theories that could revolutionize the world and had even invented machinery capable of putting those theories to the test. He was beyond his times and he was very aware of that. But he had no idea what was going on at this moment nor how it came to this point.
The child who introduced himself as Sawada Tsunayoshi was sitting on the floor of his main workplace playing with Keiman as he watched comfortable on his swivel chair whilst holding a delicious cup of mint hot chocolate that the little boy made for him as thanks for letting him stay. It wasn't like the Lightening Arcobaleno could reject those damn huge puppy eyes anyway. Honestly the child could sway even the Vindice with them! And Verde wasn't even positive they held hearts to be swayed. It was later on did the arcobaleno realise how spot on to the truth he actually was.
He took a few more sips of the admittedly delicious mint cocoa before he decided to ask the question on the front of his mind. "So... Sawada-"
"Just call me Tsuna Verde-san." The boy chirped happily as he continued massaging a very content Keiman. Apparently the alligator had completely forgiven the tiny human for the suffocating and dizzying hug. The green haired scientist frowned slightly at being interrupted but continued nonetheless. It would be a waste of breath to argue with a child. Children were stubborn on minor things. Unwilling to think logically. That's why he hated children.
"Fine. So Tsuna how did you get here?"
The holder of the Lightening Pacifier was greeted with a thoughtful silence. While the boy was doing a very good job of looking nonchalant and innocent Verde prided himself on his accurate observations and he could easily see the tensed shoulders and slight narrowing of his eyes. Finally the fluffy child sighed resignedly before looking at the scientist. His serious expression much more mature than what should be of one his age.
"A question for a question Verde-san." He replied rather cooly. Verde quirked his brow bemused and intrigued. Never had someone not from the Arcobaleno had the gall to demand for an exchange of information with no look of fear, jealousy or condescension in their eyes. Hell with his reputation and his group being the strongest seven nobody now had the gall to demand from him at all. It should have offended him like everything else. But he wasn't. The child wasn't what he first perceived. Humiliatingly he had judged to quickly and assumed he was just a mere child. Much like how others had judged him on appearance. To be fair he was an adult male in a child's body, not simply a mature child. But no mere child could manage to appear in the heart of his secret lab without a single camera picking him out.
Suddenly the brunette no longer seemed like such an eyesore.
"I am not adverse to... swapping answers as long as the importance of such content is equal." He answered carefully. Verde couldn't be too sure about the boy. He had already underestimated him once. And their were too many unknown variables, too many to take risks. The child didn't seem to perturbed by the cold demeanour he was giving off nor the extensive vocabulary. Possibly from a well off familigia? Though he held no arrogance or selfishness usually acquainted with a high standard of living. And his expressive eyes that betrayed all emotion seemed rather unsuitable if his theory of him being part of a mafioso family were to be correct. However he couldn't possibly be a civilian.
"uhn. That sounds fair." The brunette agreed cheerily, still not even facing the greenette's way and focusing on rubbing the smooth tummy of the reptile. Verde wasn't offended though. Things like human socialisation and behaviours were just tiring meaningless complexities, facts and logics were much better to the scientist. He did not feel lonely nor the need for more human contact than necessary. He had his inventions, his research and Keiman. He had no wish to be with selfish greedy creatures who can't see let alone properly utilise pure genius such as he.
The child then stopped playing with his animal companion to think much to Keiman's dissatisfaction if the soft growl was to be taken into account. "Fine my question then is... hmmm..." Admittedly the boy was something many of the general populace would define as 'cute', even Verde had to agree with it. That word seemed to define Tsunayoshi. With his pouty pink lips which were being bitten down in deep thought as well as the endearing way he furrowed his brows and his large caramel brown eyes glowing faintly orang- wait what? That's quite the unusual genetic trait to be able to change eye colour. The boy was getting more and more intriguing. "Ah! Do you research magic flames?"
There were many things the scientist had prepared mentally for. That was not one of them. He blinked. Then looked into those large expectant eyes that put puppies to shame. He blinked again. "You mean Dying Will Flames?" The greenette asked very carefully.
"Magic flames." Tsuna corrected stubbornly.
"They are known as Dying Will Flames."
"Magic Flames."
God that child was so insistent. Whoever raised him must have seriously spoilt the boy if he believes those flames are magic. (Somewhere around the world each and every cloaked, bandaged guard sneezed. Strange considering they don't get sick.) Annoyed but releasing he was getting nowhere Verde decided to do something he hadn't done in a long time. Compromise.
"Yes they are Magic Flames-" The last two words sounded like they were ground into dust using his teeth alone. "But the correct name is Dying Will Flames or Deathperation Flames."
The young brunette seemed to absorb the information and nodded slowly at the revelation. "Dying Will Flames then." Something about the confident way he said it and that twinkle of happiness one could only get when learning something knew made the scientist feel a buzz of pride rush through his body. He chose to ignore that unfamiliar change and look into it later.
"*ahem* Ehm. Yes. Good work." Tsuna beamed like he'd just given the boy the key to world domination instead of a simple praise. Really how simple. Yet once again that pleasant buzz attacked his body.
"Well to answer your question yes I have made many breakthroughs in the area and can be considered one of leading experts on Dying Will Flames."
"Have you experimented with... combining flames?"
Verde grimaced slightly at the question. Yes he had. It ended up in an embarrassing failure. Many of the flames were completely incompatible with each other with the exception of the Wrath flames which was a combination of Storm and Sky. Even then trying to recreate that particular flame combination was challenging and consuming. The ratio of the flames must be precise and even then the combined flame substance may not produce the result wanted. "I have attempted such a topic with... unfavourable results."
"I see." The child looked almost knowingly at the scientist like he too understood the frustration. But how could he possibly? Once again many questions came to mind on the upbringing of this Sawada Tsunayoshi.
"Well I warped here." The green haired scientist blinked at the other's answer.
"Excuse me?"
"Your question. I answered it. My turn again!" Verde groaned as the child giggled cheekily, but unexpectedly he didn't feel the need to wring the boy's neck much like everyone else when they acted too cocky with him. There was no attempt at intimidation or condescension like he was so used to. Just a childish playfulness. An innocence he had barely experienced. Immediately those soft cherubic features hardened in a mock attempt at seriousness which ended up more like a determined pout than anything. A feeling of almost slight amusement made it's presence known at the sight. The child really held some sort of magnetic charm to provoke the underlying emotions he had so carefully sealed.
"Can I see your notes on Dying Will Flames?"
Before the holder of the Lightening Pacifier could even began to voice his many, many objections to that question the words were caught in his mouth as he made the mistake of looking the child in the eyes. Those big, sparkly, caramel coloured, expectant eyes. Verde would have to research the potency of what he for now shall name the 'Tsuna Effect'- if it could make him of all people to become this emotionally attached to a child in less than an hour who knows how it would work on the average human. Hell who knows who else could be effected?
As disconcerting as it was for someone other than himself to see his very private written notes he felt himself nodding in approval at the way Tsuna had handled them. Like they were important irreplaceable documents that should be treated with the utmost care and respect. Which they were. Though it was rare to come across another with such an outlook. Verde found himself liking the child more and more. At least the boy recognised the importance of knowledge as much as he did. To the greenette's surprise the brunette not only seem to properly digest the information- information that usually takes trained scientists a good few hours to understand- quite quickly but was even able to put some decent input and theories of his own.
Slowly they began conversing about the concept of mixing flames and exchanging many theories and stories they had on the subject. It was a strange connection but welcome nonetheless. There was no judgement that would come from a normal adult yet no stupid illogicality that would come from a normal child. In a way they got along well and found themselves enjoying themselves, immersing themselves in conversing, than talking, than chatting about everything and anything. Sometimes the brunette would ask a question that if anybody else would have made the holder of the Lightening Pacifier groan and shoo away but Verde had found himself answering it with ease. He found himself.. enjoying teaching this child.
Tsuna opened his tiny hand proudly and produced his Regeneration Flame, bright yellow with the flickering edges of blue and indigo dancing it's fiery dance to a silent samba. The child was rather excited to show someone his flame without them you know- screaming in fear and the agony on what's to come. When he told the small greenette that the Arcobaleno nodded understandingly and said something along the of 'people not understanding the sacrifice needed for true genius' and other such things. Verde even offered to help supply more viable test subjects and materials, provided of course that he also was allowed to research the child's unique abilities. He even promised not to permanently damage the boy during the experiments- something he rarely did.
Their bond deepened quickly when they discovered another mutual connection. One that probably cemented their bond forever.
Their utter distaste for Reborn.
Flashback
"Bermuda?"
"Yes Child?"
"Jager told me you are known as the Strongest Arcobaleno in the World! That's so cool!" A four year old fluffy brunette waved his arms in absolute awe and excitement as large caramel brown eyes sparkled so brightly that the Night Arcobaleno cringed ever so slightly even behind bandages. As the boy grew older Tsuna somehow grew even cuter. Bermuda didn't even know that was possible. Chuckling softly tiny bandaged hands ruffled soft feathery hazel hair, it irked the Vindice Boss a bit that the boy was now slightly taller than him now so he had to reach up to pat the child's hair but that adorable expression when he did it was worth it.
"I used to be. Now I'm the Ex-Strongest." The look Tsuna gave when he told him that was like if the small brunette was the one to lose the title not him. Like a fluffy puppy that was given a bone only for it to be quickly snatched away before it's big honey brown eyes. The urge to apologise bubbled up in Bermuda but there were two reasons which stopped him. One it would damage his Vindice Pride. And two- well he didn't know what he would be apologising for.
"B-b-but..." Cherubic features scrunched up in confusion. It was if the idea of someone other than Bermuda being the strongest wasn't possible. Like his whole view on the world had been changed. The Vindice Boss didn't know whether to be flattered Tsuna thought so highly of him or sad that he didn't hold title resulting in the child's hurt expression. "...Who then?"
Bermuda paused a bit at that. It probably wouldn't do much harm to tell the child. The brunette was going to be a part of the darker side of the world sometime in the future and the only thing he and the rest of the Vindice could do would be to prolong the inevitable and prepare him for everything. It would do good for Tsuna to learn about the current Arcobaleno or at least the strongest of them all.
The Night Arcobaleno then began informing the boy on who Reborn was, why he was considered so strong and even what the man did after becoming an Arcobaleno. However in all the scenarios the Vindice Boss imagined the boy's reaction to be, he certainly didn't expect the one that actually occurred.
Bermuda was a being, an entity who wasn't meant to exist. He was meant to die by the hands of the Man with the Iron Hat. His existence was kept in secrecy for his future plans on revenge and so centuries past for the man without an existence. The only thing left behind was his title of the Strongest Arcobaleno, Bermuda Von Veckenschtein. And even that had been taken from him. A new Arcobaleno had claimed the title of World's Strongest and the Night flame user no longer held a place in the world of light.
Reborn. Tsuna growled inwardly at the sound of the sun arcobaleno's name (though it sounded suspiciously more akin to an unhappy puppy whining). The small more logical part of the child knew that it wasn't the hitman's fault however simple logic did not hold a candle to the strong single-minded emotions of a child. Emotions that were always especially protective when it came to the brunette's family. And if the jailers of Vendicare- Bermuda and the five other strongest jailers especially so- weren't his family he didn't know who was. It only maddened him further when he found that after being cursed the hitman had asked for his memories of his old life to be repressed by none other than Dr. Shamal.
To Tsuna that was nothing but an act of cowardice, especially since he knew so many who had lived with their regrets and own skeletons in the closets.
A coward didn't deserve title of the Strongest.
With teary eyes glowing a vibrant orange filled with steadfast, unwavering resolve, Tsuna looked to Bermuda and swore to the other Night Flame user- "I-I will make Reborn give back the title he stole from you Bermuda. I swear on my Vindice Pride."
Bermuda honestly did not understand nor comprehend how Tsuna got it in his head to feel a need to avenge the Vindice Boss for such a childish reason against one of the current Arcobalenos. And no matter how hard the Vindice Boss tried, he couldn't persuade the child that no the hitman hadn't stolen his title or that the brunette didn't need to avenge him for it. It was times like these that really reminded the ex-Strongest Arcobaleno of the boy's age. That childish stubbornness could out rival even his own. Really it was almost adorable at how the boy would just puff up and pout like a baby bird ruffling up his feathers whenever they mentioned the fedora wearing baby.
Adorable but a little worrying. Maybe the Vindice's thirst for revenge rubbed off on the innocent child a little too much, however they all couldn't have the heart to tell him otherwise. In fact they always felt a large swell of pride whenever Tsuna asks them for training with such determined, resolute eyes. And why wouldn't they? The young child wanted to fight for their boss's honour essentially and who could turn down that- his heart was in the right place, even if the reasoning was a little foolish and strange.
Though it did become a little disconcerting when the child began destroying any sort of fedora he saw. Apparently children can be very obsessive- more so than the Vindice, a group individuals literally named based on the word vindictive. It was like a cat in the presence of water. But even then cats didn't react as badly to water than Tsuna to fedora's. The guards sighed as they watched the fifth unfortunate hat get demolished till not even ashes remained while Small Gia just laughed maniacally still seeing the humour in it as he tossed another unfortunate hat to the boy. Hopefully this wouldn't bite them back in the future.
Verde began ranting at how uncouth and arrogant the hitman was and Tsuna eagerly agreed. He'd heard many stories of the man's sadistic nature and his many exploits as well as listen to Shamal's complaints about the current Sun Arcobaleno. It had only further steeled his resolve to take back what was stolen and give it back to the rightful owner. Bermuda.
Waves of guilt swept the child away as the name popped into his mind. Suddenly the brunette didn't feel so happy. How long has it been since he came here? An hour? Everyone in Vendicare must be sick with worry because of his act of impulsive selfishness in the heat of the moment.
"Tsuna is there something the matter?" Snapping out of his depressed thoughts the child looked to see half lidded green eyes look toward him. To an outsider Verde may have looked colder than ice with his face holding no emotion and his voice reflecting it as well but the boy wasn't any outsider. Whilst it had only been a short while he had gotten attached to the mad scientist. They had similar quirks and had their fair share of prejudice with their over-analytical ways and insatiable curiosities. Tsuna could see the usual smirk on the Lightening Arcobaleno's lips was tense, hear the split second of hesitation before he asked and the shadow of a flicker in those dark emerald orbs. Verde was worried. And unsure of how to handle such a situation.
The brunette merely smiled weakly in an attempt to soothe the other's nerves but of course the greenette with hair as unruly as the child's own wasn't the least bit convinced. 'Children and their rapid changes of emotional state make them hard to read however it is clear the boy is upset. The best solution to this situation should be...' Verde looked past the cheery facade into those wavering brown eyes.
"Tsuna. Do you..." He hesitated. Was he really so close to this child that he would offer something that he would have rather died than do so just hours before? It was almost scary how Tsuna could draw a person as aloof and indifferent as he into a worrying, carrying, emotional mess. But thinking about the brunette's sweet smile, their interesting conversations that he would possibly never tire of and the delicious minty cocoa the child had made when he'd noticed how the scientist recently had neglected his own wellbeing Verde realised he didn't care. He would fight for this boy if it meant making him happy. "Do you wish to try help me check my new inventions?"
Immediately the six-year old perked up at the word 'new' and 'inventions'. His short attention span and curiosity was really his biggest weakness but right now he was more focussed on the exciting new stuff he'll soon be looking at. "Really Verde-san?! Oh thank you! Thank you!" He squealed happily as he jumped up and down in anticipation and elation. The mad scientist couldn't help but quirk his slightly crooked smile at that- he had been smiling more in the last hour than his lifetime- he had met with scientists who while appreciated his work were filled with jealousy and scorn. Tsuna was nothing like them. He was purely filled with joyous excitement and the idea. It was of the many aspects of him that Verde realised made him care for the other so deeply, so fast.
"WOW! Verde-san what's this one?!"
"That my boy is a Flame Replicator. I've been using it to analyse Flames molecule by molecule in hopes to recreate it and figure out more of it's many secrets." Despite his almost emotionless, haughty voice the greenette was practically brimming with pride at those sparkling wide eyes filled with awe and amazement. It had been twenty minutes like this and the ever repeated scenes and lines seemed to never get old.
"Ne Verde-san?"
"Hmmm..?"
"Could you use the Flame Replicator to manipulate the flames in order to maximise it's full potential?" Emerald eyes blinked as they thought carefully on the question. He wanted to bash his head against a table for not thinking about it beforehand, the idea was simply brilliant if it could be pulled off which in theory should be able to. Muttering various scientific jargon under his breath he began looking over his invention. It took the appearance similar to the classic rounded bubblegum machines however instead of the compartment where the candy pops out the user inputs a flame there. The specific Dying Will Flame is then transferred into the rounded glass where it is promptly analysed and the data collected goes straight into the scientist's main computer. However with the right alterations Verde could be able to input other Flame types into the original Flame given, changing it's composition and effect while his computer can analyse it to see the efficiency and if it's potential has been maximised. It was quite ingenious.
As Verde continued his modifications on the upgrade Tsuna continued to look at the other machinery around him. His eyes rested on what seemed to be a karaoke machine. The brunette giggled at the memories of the object. He remembered it had been New Year's that he was able to convince Bermuda and the other five strongest in Vindice to play karaoke with him. It had been relatively easier considering they had recently came to the surprising revelation that they were able to still enjoy- albeit faintly- the pleasures of alcohol if consumed in large enough amounts.
Before they even began to play however some words were passed and quickly an argument took place. Tsuna wasn't sure what it was on about but he could assure you it was probably tiny and petty. Either way it ended up like this-
"Fine let's make this thing actually interesting and fun." Jager smirked as he gulped down another bottle of vodka. Tsuna pouted at that comment, he thought playing karaoke was fun. Actually wasn't Jager the one who gave him the machine?! "We'll turn this into a team battle. The team with the highest total number of points gets to choose the losers dress code for the day."
"You're freaking on you smug prick!" A fiery redhead yelled out with a very slight slur at the end of is voice. The four-year old sweat dropped. The Vindice had always been quite competitive though with those strong smelling drinks that they wouldn't let him take (he pouted harder at that), they became less subtle in how they showed well... anything. It had been honestly the loudest everyone had ever been. As well as the most insults they had ever thrown. Let's just say a lot of records had been broken that night. And not the good ones.
"Bermuda-san.. Shouldn't we stop this?"
"*hic* Let those peasants play thy games."
Tsuna looked in a twisted horror and curiosity at the Vindice Boss. The Night Arcobaleno only had half a bottle of the clear liquid potion and it's strange magic was already working on the other. Maybe because of his baby body? Either way a carefree careless Bermuda was unnerving for the small child.
It had been decided that there would be two teams. Team Tsuna in which would contain Tsuna, Jack and Small Gia. And Team Bermuda which would have Bermuda, Alejandro and Jager. It wasn't what the brunette planned but it seemed to promise fun and the jailers actually participating in karaoke so the boy wasn't really complaining.
Bermuda with his still unnerving lack of inhibition and care was the one to volunteer to go first up. The child swore on his notebooks to amok sure the bandaged baby would never get a single drop of the so called alcohol liquid. At least while he was still in his current form. And also to sneak the potion down to his charges. The Vindice seemed to enjoy it. Maybe it could be a treat for their next time when the brunette practiced with his combination flames.
A slight furrow of the arcobaleno's bandages appeared when the small figure stepped toward the TV. "So how does *hic* thing work?" The brunette then realised at that moment the reason why almost everything around Vendicare used literally the minimum amount of technology possible. Thinking about it that made sense considering only the most recent generation of Vindice would have been actually properly exposed to the more modern mechanisation with Alejandro being the exception to the rule since his puppets controlled by him are able to roam rather freely to explore the world.
"Master there is a sensor which detects your movements so you can merely move and manipulate the things on the screen. Just pretend your spinning a big wheel to activate the random song generator and push your hand to accept or select the song, then speak in the metal cylindrical thing known as a 'microphone'." The Strongest Vindice Warrior supplied helpfully. Tsuna couldn't help but frown slightly, that funny feeling in his mind was telling him that something was off. Jager shouldn't have really known how to use the machine to this extent. Unless-
Tsuna gasped scandalously. "Jager has been secretly practicing on the karaoke machine!"
Jack paled- well as much as he could with his mangled burnt skin. Even Small Gia looked a little uneasy at the revelation. "Kekeke you bastard you planned all of this." The brunette and every other jailer shuddered as they saw what was the biggest, slyest smirk they had ever seen on the Vindice Warrior's face. Suddenly their prospects on winning wasn't look so good anymore.
I don't want another pretty face
I don't want just anyone to hold
I don't want my love to go to waste
I want you and your beautiful soul
I know that you are something special
To you I'd be always faithful
I want to be what you always needed
Then I hope you'll see the heart in me
Surprisingly Bermuda with his deep but still quite childlike voice was quite the singer. While he was far from perfect considering his tipsiness the arcobaleno had a beautiful hypnotic voice that made Tsuna wish to listen to for the rest of his lifetime.
I don't want another pretty face
I don't want just anyone to hold
I don't want my love to go to waste
I want you and your beautiful soul
"As expected of my master." Jager praised confidently. Tsuna nodded, eyes sparkling as Bermuda's image practically glowed in his innocently childish eyes.
You're the one I wanna chase
You're the one I wanna hold
I won't let another minute go to waste
I want you and your beautiful soul
Your beautiful soul, yeah
Current number of points for Team Bermuda: 65,836
Current number of points for Team Tsuna: None
To Tsuna's horror unlike Bermuda he'd unluckily got a song with a 4 star difficulty. Actually his feeling told him to stop the randomiser function a few seconds earlier but he tripped and screwed up the timing. Suddenly he felt quite nervous at singing in front of everyone. He wished he could take some of the funny potion everyone was drinking. It seemed to make them more confident. Of course it also produced a strange mix of reactions including random bouts of laughter, crying, anger and other such things. The child wasn't even aware that people could laugh and cry in anger. On the bright side a higher star rating meant it had more points even if it was harder to sing.
You shout it out,
But I can't hear a word you say
You're talking loud, not saying much
Tsuna felt his voice wavering slightly, as well as his confidence but when he heard the cheering of his family the child began to calm himself. They were his pillar of support as much as he was to them after all.
You criticize but all your bullets ricochet
You shoot me down, but I get up
Closing his eyes he felt himself enjoying the feeling of singing. Gaining more courage the child began to eagerly pore his energy into the song, his inner flames dancing to the tune like always. His voice rang out high and pure like beautiful shards of glass cutting through the mesmerised silence.
I'm bulletproof, nothing to lose
Fire away, fire away
Ricochet, you take your aim
Fire away, fire away
You shoot me down but I won't fall
I am titanium
Everyone was swept away by the brunette's voice. They had heard him sing a few times though softly due to the child being so shy but hearing it loud and clear sobered everyone up just so they could appreciate the sound. The voice held both beauty and power as it flickered to try to match the rhythm and melody surrounding it. While the boy had trouble with the sudden highs and lows of the song's pitch it didn't fail to mesmerise the audience. Like a flame holding warmth and passion that one couldn't tear their eyes nor ears from.
You shoot me down but I won't fall
I am titanium
Current number of points for Team Bermuda: 65,836
Current number of points for Team Tsuna: 128,497
Jager went up next, his aura literally arrogance and confidence personified. Jack and Gia wasted no hesitation in booing the Vindice jailer when he stood and in turn the other wasted no time in producing a rather rude hand gesture toward the two. Tsuna knew it was rude because he tried doing it once and got the lecture of his little life. Then the unfortunate inmate who taught it to him was never seen again. He wondered where he went. Every guard told him they just transferred the man to a different cell. The brunette had more than just a feeling they were lying.
With a flick of his hand with fingers so long and elegant it would have put pianists to shame the Vindice guard twirled the microphone in his hands and selected the song. As he saw the name the male smirked brimming with self confidence.
I'm not surprised, not everything lasts
I've broken my heart so many times I stopped keeping track
Talk myself in, I talk myself out
I get all worked up then I let myself down
Tsuna had to admit the man had definitely the skill to back up his confidence and more. Jager had always had a very attractive voice and in the past year or so the crackly edge to it due to lack of use had faded. It was like a sensuous mix of melted dark chocolate and honey.
I tried so very hard not to lose it
I came up with a million excuses
I thought, I thought of every possibility
The man was almost dancing as he threw various little gestures while he sang; a simple wave of his hand, a twist of his shoulders, a subtle movement of his hips that seemed to entrance or to emphasise, it was like his whole presence demanded attention. Before he was a Vindice the man was definitely a popular ladies man the child knew it.
And I know some day that it'll all turn out
You'll make me work so we can work to work it out
And I promise you kid that I'll give so much more than I get
At the last line he turned to the little brunette and gave a sly, seductive wink, clearly enjoying himself and reveling in the well- disguised awe of his comrades.
I just haven't met you yet
Current number of points for Team Bermuda: 221,491
Current number of points for Team Tsuna: 128,497
To be completely honest nobody really saw this coming. They all watched as the most sadistic guard went up next, eyes glinting mischievously as he selected his song. Whilst the jailer was possibly the most expressive in emotions before the time of Tsuna they had never pegged him as the type that could sing. Oh how they were wrong.
As the music started and the beat picked up the other gave a startling yell like how many rock stars did before starting their show as he proceeded to sing with his razor sharp voice of his.
She's into superstitions black cats and voodoo dolls.
I feel a premonition that girl's gonna make me fall.
She's into new sensations new kicks in the candle light.
She's got a new addiction for every day and night.
She'll make you take your clothes off and go dancing in the rain.
She'll make you live her crazy life but she'll take away your pain
like a bullet to your brain. Come On!
There was a slight leer to his voice which in usual circumstances emphasised his rather cruel nature yet in this case somehow fit perfectly to the song. If Jager's voice was like melted dark chocolate, Gia's was a metal whip- fast-paced, sharp and gave shivers to anyone nearby.
Upside, inside out she's livin la vida loca
She'll push and pull you down, livin la vida loca
Her lips are devil red and her skin's the color mocha
She will wear you out livin la vida loca Come On!
Livin la vida loca, Come on!
She's livin la vida loca.
Tsuna had no idea the Vindice were so talented at this. If the other's looks were any indication they weren't aware of everyone else's as well.
Current number of points for Team Bermuda: 221,491
Current number of points for Team Tsuna: 279,384
Dignified as always the Sun Flame user moved to elegantly pick up the flung microphone on the other side of the room due to the short guard getting a tad overexcited. With a few movements of the hand he selected his song, readying himself. On the outside he still seemed like the cool headed male that he usually was but the blaze of competitiveness in those eyes betrayed him. Those insults he and Jack threw at each other before must have really fired him up.
Simona
You're getting older
Your journey's been
Etched on your skin
Simona
Wish I had known that
What seemed so strong
Has been and gone
It was soft and raspy like dried leaves falling in the Winter's breeze yet it held emotion that the empty wind could not possibly hold. The man was hitting the notes almost perfectly as he continued singing.
I would call you up every Saturday night
And we both stayed out 'til the morning light
And we sang, "Here we go again"
Despite his cold demeanour when the eldest Vindice sang there was a faint warmth in his words. Like the morning sun on a cold morning's day. While not as hot as the blazing afternoon it held a comforting heat that soothed and energised.
And though time goes by
I will always be
In a club with you
In 1973
Singing "Here we go again"
Current number of points for Team Bermuda: 408,853
Current number of points for Team Tsuna: 279,384
Jack unlike the others did not exude the aura of self-confidence and smug arrogance as his turn came around. His voice was already naturally quite rough and coarse, adding with the cracking hoarseness from underuse did not help him in this situation. Neither were his so called comrades comments.
"Kekeke you better not fu-frigging blow this for us Jack." Small Gia threatened ominously as he sharpened one of his precious pieces of weaponry. Really when did he smuggle a chainsaw in here?!
"Please. If that uncouth slob gets a higher score than me he can choose my outfit." Alejandro scoffed.
Jager merely looked at him with the closest to a shit-eating grin as a mangled undead human being could look. Bermuda was snuggled in between the crevice of the couch they had bought over to the training room, still tipsy and giggling in a rather disturbing manner. Only Tsuna seemed to look on supportively. Yep that right there was why the child was his favourite person in Vendicare.
"Yo Tsuna, why don't you select my freaking song huh?" The child perked up immediately thrilled as all children are at the offer of an extra turn to spin a wheel albeit an invisible one. "Really Jack-san? Yay!" The fiery Vindice guard couldn't help but smile at the sheer happiness coming from the boy. It had been obvious that the brunette had been strangely entranced by the song randomiser function on the screen. Really kids get so excited over the strangest things.
The brunette stuck out his tongue in concentration as he watched the wheel of song names on the screen turn, he didn't want to disappoint Jack and select a bad song especially considering how nervous he was. Suddenly his intuition flared up and immediately he made the gesture to select the song. Tsuna recognised the song. It was his turn to smirk victoriously.
The fiery jailer hesitantly picked up the microphone, pushing some stray faded red hairs away from his face as he did so. However he felt much better when he caught sight of the brunette smiling supportively and giving him a thumbs up with his little hands whilst none was looking. Taking a deep breath the song began.
Somebody once told me the world is gonna roll me
I ain't the sharpest tool in the shed
"That's saying something." The usually dignified guard murmured to the spiky haired shorter Vindice who cackled in return. Alcohol makes his coworkers even more of an asshole than usual apparently.
She was looking kind of dumb with her finger and her thumb
In the shape of an "L" on her forehead
As the beat began to pick up Jack began to find himself having some actual fun in this stupid bullshit event (Tsuna for some unknown reason felt like pouting at that moment).
Well, the years start coming and they don't stop coming
Fed to the rules and I hit the ground running
Didn't make sense not to live for fun
Your brain gets smart but your head gets dumb
So much to do, so much to see
So what's wrong with taking the back streets?
You'll never know if you don't go
You'll never shine if you don't glow
On the screen was the repeated words of PERFECT much to everyone's surprise including the current holder of the microphone's. Well everyone but Tsuna who merely grinned. After all while Jack's gravelly throaty voice may not be the most flexible it does has it's moments. And this was indeed a shining one.
Hey, now, you're an All Star get your game on, go play
Hey, now, you're a Rock Star get the show on get paid
And all that glitters is gold
Only shooting stars break the mold
At the very end everyone watched mesmerised as the points added up. Finally the score revealed itself and three people whooped in joy and the other three groaned in despair.
Current number of points for Team Bermuda: 408,853
Current number of points for Team Tsuna: 410,631
WINNER: TEAM TSUNA
~~A Day later~~
"No."
"Freaking. Yes."
"I hate you."
"And I freaking love you- in that outfit."
Alejandro snarled venomously however the effect was lost through all the frills and rather seizure inducing bright yellow patterns decorated on his usually well maintained uniform. The guard who had prided himself on correct uniform standards wore a modified version of his usual cloak which had frills upon frills of varying clashing patterns, pictures and just graffiti all in different shades of yellow. His top hat a fluorescent yellow with sunflower patterned ribbon and his wavy platinum blond hair tied up in a plait with a mixture of sunflowers and daisies stuck randomly in his hair making quite the sight.
Needless to say his usually loyal subordinates unsure of how to take the situation were polite enough to ignore the need to scratch out the image from their eyes with their own fingers and try their best not to stare, not to mention afterwards attempt to drink all memory of that day away. While it was hard for Vindice guards to get wasted from alcohol, hangovers were a guarantee the morning after. Everyone insisted the pain was worth it.
"Ta Daaa~~"
"Fuck you."
"Kekekeke, now now that isn't a nice thing to say to your tailor. Really what would Tsuna say?"
Jäger's inverted eyes narrowed in a glare. Clearly he made the fatal mistake of underestimating his opponents and paying for it dearly with his pride.
His beautiful if not mangled figure that he not so secretly took pride in even now was adorned with white lacy ribbons where his chains were usually tastefully placed. To add to the degradation further giant bright blue bows were placed wherever the lace knotted in the middle and his pants was the same shade of blue with pink tinted lace not so subtly used at the edges. His fur lined coat was replaced with a lace lined blue cape with crudely stitched on hearts and other cutesy things.
Oh he was going to kill the sadistic guard later.
Or now.
Actually now seemed good.
Sounds of cursing and laughter rang across the halls as guards who were unfortunate to pass them in that moment gaped as their superiors chased each other down the hall with murderous intent. Not to mention the outfit that their Strongest Vindice Warrior was wearing. Needless to say they too had joined Alejandro's subordinates in their little drinking session afterwards as they questioned their sanity.
"I'm... Never going to drink alcohol again."
Tsuna giggled as he stepped back admiring his work. He didn't do much but he didn't need nor want to and it got the desired image he wanted. There the Vindice Boss stood still covered in his usual bandages however his clear pacifier was decorated with a large violet ribbon and on his top hat the bandages decorating it was replaced by violet ribbons with a cutesy teddy bear design. Adding to that was a pair of fluffy white bear ears and to complete the outfit the brunette had cheekily drew a cutesy teddy bear face on his favourite jailer's bandaged own.
"But Bermuda-san you look so cute!" The young child smiled a wide flower and rainbow spawning smile as he said so. The Night Arcobaleno had to blink away the raw adorableness from his eyes lest it blinded him. 'You're the one that's cute..' He couldn't help but murmur to himself. Tsuna who pretended not to hear the mumblings blushed slightly at the compliment.
They spent the day together since there had been no paperwork nor any Vindice guard's that hadn't been visually traumatised enough to create any. The female jailers silently cooed at the scene of the two, their eyes healed ever so slightly from the vision of two certain poorly dressed jailers. The males however needed to punch a wall to feel manly again- especially during mealtime when their beloved child- the epitome of all things cute and fluffy sat happily in a corner feeding a white bear in a Vindice outfit which they realised to be their all powerful feared boss.
Tsuna giggled softly to himself at the memories that followed after. Karoake night was a huge success after that, it had become a fortnightly event where random jailers were selected to attend and there was always embarrassing punishment games for the losers. Sometimes it was in teams or individual, over time as each Vindice member got used to playing this strange but highly entertaining game they added more obstacles to further complicate and challenge. By the twenty-seventh Karaoke night it was decided that the dance option on the machine was now compulsory and could only have level three and above difficulty.
Needless to say that night had been hilarious. And let's just say Tsuna hadn't been the only one tripping on their toes that night. Even Alejandro who barely complained on anything had complained rather sourly that 'limbs shouldn't move in such a stupid way'. In fact it was so enjoyable they began expanding to other special event nights like Game Nights where the same concept applied.
Monopoly night was a huge disaster however. It lasted thirteen hours and it took a month and a half for some friendships to heal from the experience. Only Gia-san enjoyed that night and that was only because he loved it when and Tsuna quoted 'he watched the light slowly die in his opponents eyes as they handed him his money whilst he could practically feel the bloodlust in the room buzzing on his mangled skin'.
As quickly as his mood lifted Tsuna immediately felt himself feeling depressed again.
He had said some awful, hurtful things to his family, things he could now never take back such is the way of words. The brunette still remembered all too clearly the faint, split second of pain in the Vindice Boss when he had uttered the three most hurtful words there could be. And he knew it well. Tsuna had also been a victim of those words. He knew the heartbreak it caused especially when it came from a person so close to the heart. Could they ever forgive him? Could Bermuda forgive him?
Imagining a life all alone again, with no family or friend by his sides made his huge honey brown eyes swell up with unshed tears. Despite how zoned out Verde tended to be when immersed in his work so much so even a war zone couldn't snap him out of it, somehow the soft almost inaudible, stifled whimpers Tsuna tried to suppress made him look up so fast his glasses almost fell off. Quickly he rushed to the near tears of the brunette and blurted out words of doting worry he didn't even know he had. "Are you okay Tsuna? Do you need something to consume? Should I give you a shot to improve your serotonin, norepinephrine and dopamine levels?"
The child wanted to laugh at the uncharacteristic face of a worried mother hen on the unusually indifferent mad scientist however the sobs stuck in his throat chocked him in the process. Suddenly he felt a rather overwhelming exhaustion settle in his bones. It was scary how fast the energy seeped from him and his legs failed under his small body. "Wha-" Even words were too hard to speak. It was like he was trapped in his own unresponsive body.
It was terrifying.
Verde could tell something was seriously wrong. Mood swings were common in children. The sudden collapse with the expression of abject confusion and fear was most definitely not. Panic was shoved away in favor for calm yet hurried logic as the Lightening Arcobaleno wracked his brain on how to determine and alleviate such unusual symptoms. From the external traits showing the most likely conclusion was the boy was exhibiting a very extreme form of exhaustion.
But how could that be? There was no signs of fatigue earlier and no activity that could encourage such over exertion. However right now questions of why we're not important, first priority was to attempt to minimize any long term damage. Such immediate symptoms can cause cells to be unprepared and vulnerable making the damage inflicted worse than usual, not to mention the shock to the child's still growing nervous system. If Verde didn't pull this off properly who knows the consequences?
Snapping his fingers Keiman seemed to nod as he grew in a size large enough to easily carry the still conscious brunette. Quickly like a well oiled machine the two split up - the alligator rushed over to one of the infirmary beds and the scientist to the emergency medical equipment. The man trapped in a baby's body didn't even hesitate before grabbing a bunch of strange shady looking devices and running as fast as his tiny legs could to the trembling brunette.
The Vindice were in panic. No it was something much worse.
They were in hysteria.
Yet not one which could cloud their judgement and haze the line between emotion and logic. They were too old, too experienced for that to happen. Instead they let their raging emotions sharpen their determination and resolve. Their dark feelings only strengthening the flames of the Night that support them. Yet they couldn't shake the unease tightness of their chest. Restricting the air inside them, making it feel unbearable to even breath. Not until they finally see that fluffy gravity-defying hair, those wide bright, shining caramel brown eyes and the all too familiar smile that had caused the glaciers in their hearts to melt so easily under.
Bermuda probably was the worst affected out of all of them. His orders held not an ounce of hesitation, despite standing tall and firm in the face of the situation the black flames in their cores could be felt flickering frantically. Like the fire was trying to desperately claw it's way out of the bodies of it's user. Despite how well externally their boss could hide it, the Night Arcobaleno couldn't lie from his flames which in turn was their flames. And his flames were telling the Vindice Bermuda was terrified for Tsuna.
The three hour limit has almost been exceeded and the need to find the child tripled every second lost. Worries filled and threatened to consume the minds of everyone. What if living children have a smaller time limit? What if the exhaustion was so sudden the shock killed the small fragile boy? What if the last thing they'll ever see of the child was him in tears and rage?
"Boss we've pinpointed a location with Tsuna's unique flame signature!"
"Then what are thy waiting for?! Jager you, Alejandro and Ario will go search and find him. NOW." Bermuda gritted his teeth so hard that it could grind a diamond to dust. Waves of guilt, anger, helplessness and anxiety clashed together internally like a chaotic storm.
'Tsuna. Please. You have to be safe. I haven't even apologised to you yet.'
"... Cells have almost been re-stabilized. Breathing rate is still above normal but slowing gradually. Temperature high however due to his own numerous, high density Deathperation Flames that could be considered the norm. Injected 30 cc of Sun Flames. Intended effect now begin showing after exactly five minutes and twenty-one seconds. Chances of recovery: 72%." Verde sighed. He would have preferred at least a 92% or higher but it was the best he could do on such unusual circumstances. At least the brunette seemed to be in the clear right now.
'Yet.' The scientist frowned as he scratched the back of his head uneasily. 'Why do I feel something bad is going to happen?'
The moment those thoughts entered his mind a chilling made itself known. Turning sharply emerald eyes watched with slight horror as a black portal began forming in his room. He could practically hear the dramatic foreboding music as three bandaged figures slowly stepped out, their black cloaks billowing in some non-existent wind. The tallest most intimidating one loomed intimidatingly above him as he spoke in a deep, hoarse eerily hollow voice.
"We have come to retrieve the boy."
Unable to restrain his action the Lightening Arcobaleno's eyes narrowed defiantly. It didn't matter how illogical he was being nor of the nonexistent percentage of winning against a Vindice let alone three, the moment they mentioned taking Tsuna away to whatever hellhole they crawled out from all reasoning flew out the metaphorical window leaving unexplainable an instinct. An instinct to protect.
"I refuse."
Unfortunately the guards held the same instinct. Of course having lived with and loved the fluffy child for over three years their desire to protect was on immeasurable levels. They were also more than well aware of Verde's reputation though they were slightly surprised this was the location of his newest base. Unlike public opinion the Vindice wasn't omniscient and their intel had been having having quite the time pinpointing the current Lightening Arcobaleno's location. However now knowing that Tsuna had been in the presence of a mad scientist who held little to no qualms in order to finish his research both chilled and infuriated them.
"There is no room for arguments Arcobaleno. Give us the child. Now."
It didn't take a genius for the greenette to be aware how dire this situation was. He couldn't use his usual escape tactics since they never accounted for the concern of others meaning if he leaves Verde would have a 15% chance successful escape however Tsuna would be 100% vulnerable to the most feared underground enforcers in the world. He didn't even have time to question why such powerful individuals even wanted the child.
The situation being unfavourable was a disgusting understatement. The chances to survive the ordeal with Tsuna intact was less than 0.00001%. Verde had been unfortunate to personally face the jailers beforehand when he had gotten too curious in the strength and the unknown flames of the Vindice. They made their warning to him perfectly clear when they destroyed his whole base of operation down to the last wire and screw. The black Dying Will flames they used were on another level in terms of power. Verde with his weak physical ability didn't stand a snowball's chance in hell.
However fighting had never been in his nature. Instead he pulled out his own weapon. Logic. Wow even in his own rather proud mind that sounded lame.
"Tsuna is in critical condition at this moment." A lie. "Moving him will cause unexpected effects and a high possibility of long term damage." That was actually quite true. However if they transported him with minimal fuss like in just an above average quality van the boy would still be fine. They didn't need to know that though. "I don't know for what motive you want the child but I am betting you rather him not permanently damaged no?"
No one speaks against the Vindice. The plan of bluffing and bullshitting had a 89% chance of going down a very bloody end but it was unfortunately one of the better chances of it succeeding. But it solely depended on how much of a heart they had. If they planned to kill or imprison the boy it would make little to no difference if he was damaged or otherwise. Yet to Verde's surprise the trio turned into a huddle and began whispering to each other in a hushed discussion. If the scientist didn't know better he would have thought they were... worried for Tsuna.
"How long would it take for him to wake up and be stable enough to transport?" The tallest one exuding the most power finally said or more like demanded. "And do not dare say any other time above four hours." The scientist couldn't help but sweat drop slightly at the rather unreasonable demand. Fortunately or unfortunately Tsuna should wake up very soon meaning the green haired arcobaleno had to think something up and quickly. There was no way he would allow such monsters to take away this pure innocent being. With the excuse of checking the status in the other room Verde quickly set off to work. He didn't have long before a guard might catch on to what he would be doing but for now he must focus.
"Mnn... Urgh.." Tsuna groaned as his eyelids fluttered open and were hit by the rather unforgiving lights. Everything ached and felt like he was chained by those chains all the guards liked to use. Only the chains were like thin wires compared to this. It was hard even to keep his eyes open at this moment, the brunette was tempted to go back to sleep but that feeling inside him was urging him to stay awake.
Of course the sight of his new green haired friend aiming a scary looking gun that could easily be triple the arcobaleno's size and his alligator (who had grown huge he had to add ) baring sharp teeth at three familiar Vindice guards did make him question whether he was really awake or not. After blinking and using a disturbing amount of energy to pinch his cheek it hit him that no, this wasn't a dream. Just a really weird scene of reality.
As he watched the bandaged jailers pull out their chains, auras dark and menacing not to mention Verde narrowing his emerald eyes defensively as small fingers tightened on the trigger he held Tsuna knew he had to do something. "Sto- *cough*-p! *cough*" It wasn't the dramatic shout with hands flailing like in those drama shows but the intended effect was definitely there as instantly all occupants of the room dropped their weapons to appear by his side. The holder of the Lightening Pacifier was muttering various medical terms and jargon as he carefully checked the young boy's vitals while Jager, Alejandro and Ario hovered a small distance away seemingly indifferent on the whole situation though the brunette can tell through their subtle movements they were worried sick at his current predicament.
Trying to reassure them as the waves of guilt merciless churned inside him Tsuna tried to give a big smile though it ended up being a little crooked. It was his selfishness and desire that caused this mess, to cause them all to worry and suffer. He had felt terrible. He had to- no- he needed to apologise. Especially to Bermuda. "You guys.. I'm sorry." He managed to murmur out before once again the darkness kidnapped his consciousness.
The second time Tsuna woke up he felt a little better. Not much. But better.
However the sight that greeted him was as equally ridiculous as before. The first thing he noticed was that the number of guards in the room had doubled a hundred fold. It reminded him of when he first activated his magi- Dying Will Flames or when he had gotten really sick (he had never gotten sick after that but Shamal still visited him once a month for a check up). Some may find an ocean a dark cloaked intimidatingly bandaged men (and women though you wouldn't have been able to tell really) absolutely spine-chillingly oh-god-kill-me-now terrifying but Tsuna simply find it heart-warmingly comforting.
Of course the image was slightly ruined as his eyes were drawn to the two small green figures trussed up like a Thanksgiving turkey in a corner with almost amusingly identical expressions of fear, disbelief and confusion.
"Eh..?"
The swishing of black cloaks halted for a second before practically creating a wall of their bodies surrounding the fluffy brunette. Soft, raspy murmurs of worried questions buzzed in the air. The still tired child tried answering as many questions as possible. A familiar strong presence then made itself known, hidden by his subordinates the Vindice Boss appeared next to his beloved brunette.
"Tsuna... Are you okay?"
He didn't understand how just one question managed to cause such a reaction in him but the moment the words left the night arcobaleno's lips it was like every little emotion came crashing down with ferocious fervor. With a wail he wrapped his numb arms around the smaller figure and sobbed out all the apologies he had bottled up and more so. Bermuda took it quietly as his small bandaged hands gently rubbed soothing circles on the boy's back in his own awkward way of expressing apology.
"I'm *sob* sho *sniffle* shorry!"
"Ssshh... Shh.. Child. It is alright. Sshh... I too am also sorry for my actions. I was acting like a child and- I forgot you were one." Despite the kind words Tsuna still couldn't stop the cries in his throat nor the wracked feeling of guilt in his stomach. If anything it made him cry harder.
"B-but I *hiccup* said such *sob* mean things! *sob*" The Vindice Boss pushed the child away from him so he could look the other straight into his teary caramel brown eyes.
"But did you really mean that?"
The crying boy shook his head vehemently. Bermuda couldn't help but soften at the sight as he pulled the brunette back into his embrace. "Then your apology is accepted."
Tsuna sobbed even harder but now for a completely different reason. The guards surrounding the two felt a little awkward as they intruded on this touching moment. However they were needed to block off the sight of their boss to a certain green haired scientist.
Verde had no idea what was currently happening in his own secret lab. He was completely and utterly confused. And he hated being confused. And while he would never admit it - he was scared- and who wouldn't be? His previous on the research indicated that the Vindice had only ever moved in groups of three yet here was easily over a hundred before his eyes swarming like demons in hell towards the cherubic angel of Sawada Tsunayoshi. Absentmindedly he cursed himself for thinking of such uselessly stupid metaphors.
Then came the crying. It took no less than three seconds before the unfamiliar rise of protective anger and fury filled his entire being. How dare they make the boy cry! He didn't care if they were the most feared, the most powerful, the most ruthless group in the underworld but to make Tsuna who smiled the brightest most accepting smile cry so heart-wrenchingly sad cries was unforgivable. Keiman must have shared his same thoughts as he too bared his teeth showing true animosity.
Unfortunately neither being was capable of anything of physical value. And while Verde hated to admit it, among the Arcobaleno physically he would barely beat Viper in second last place. So as frustrating as it was, it was also no big surprise that they couldn't break out of the chains that bonded them. He couldn't even remove the gag on his mouth.
Finally the wails turned into muffled sobs and then in turn into murmured whimpers and soft cries. Then the most surprising sound rang out. One that if he wasn't present to observe he would have never believed to hear in the presence of the Vindice of all people. Laughter. Soft yet tinkling laughter. Without a doubt it came from Tsuna but why? Maybe the child really was insane. Figures the one person who could completely destroy his bored indifference was a madman.
Unable to suppress the dry thought the Lightening Arcobaleno groaned causing a few guard to glance his way. The murmuring discussion between the jailers sounded akin to hollow rusty nails scraping together, it was hard to understand what they were discussing due to each conversing in various different languages however it was disturbingly clear to the greenette it was about him. And that was never a good sign.
"I say we freaking kill 'im."
"Don't be such a vulgar, uncouth fool." Alejandro snapped shortly yet maintaining his neutral 'work' voice. "We cannot kill one of the Arcobaleno. It would disrupt the balance not to mention ruin our plans."
"Didn't have too be such a freaking prick about it.. geez." The fiery guard muttered.
"Puppipupi pupipippii."
"Kekeke I agree. We should just torture him. That'll keep him quiet."
"That does sound good."
"Hear, hear."
"I am not against such an option."
Tsuna unable to stand by and watch the now rather graphic brainstorm on ways to torture his new friend continue tugged at the nearest jailer's cloak effectively silencing them all. The brunette decided to pull all the big guns out, he knew very well how hard it was for the rather bloodthirsty and sadistic guards to be convinced otherwise of the chance of torturing someone. Head tilted slightly so his fluffy hair framed his adorable features he gave a small blushing pout, large still watery honeyed eyes looking up at them all. "Ano Verde-san is my new friend now. S-so pwease don't hurt Verde-san everyone."
A few of the bandaged jailers actually hissed as they felt the full impact of their beloved child's pureness practically eroding their core. Curse the female guards for teaching the boy 'seduction' techniques. Surprisingly enough Jager was the first to break. Usually it was Jack or Alejandro or even Bermuda occasionally. "Of course Tsuna. We wouldn't wish to damage your new friend."
Verde who was listening intently at the conversation flinched indigently as the word friend that came from the tall intimidating jailer's mouth sounded suspiciously like implied undertones of the word toy.
"In fact..." The man purred dangerously. The current lightening arcobaleno shuddered. All the other Vindice felt a sense of foreboding. Even Bermuda sweat dropped at his right hand man. Really he didn't remember Jager being that bad when they were alive. "I think we should have a little celebration for you making your first friend all by yourself."
Only the innocent naive Tsuna brightened up at the offer. Everyone else blanched.
And that was the story of how Verde met the enigma of Sawada Tsunayoshi. Whether it was a good thing or not he wasn't sure. But he knew things were going to be interesting to say the least.
Omake- Not really but I couldn't find anywhere to add this.
Verde blinked. Was he dreaming? Had he finally cracked under his own sheer genius? There was no other explanation.
Because there was no way in this universe nor in any alternate one was he in the situation of being forced to sing freaking karaoke with the Vindice.
Yes he must have finally gone insane.
"Come on Verde-san it's your turn now!" Half lidded emerald eyes looked to see the blinding smile of the brunette who caused it all. Apparently his previous theory of Tsuna being a prisoner or criminal of Vendicare was wrong. As hard as it was to believe the facts and numbers were all there. This boy was the Vindice's... child. This. This right there was the reason one should research people they meet beforehand. Or not meet people at all. Because apparently you end up going mad and hallucinating singing Vindice jailers.
"Verde-san?"
"Lightening Arcobaleno Verde I suggest you do what Tsuna says." The tall intimidating one- Jager if he recalled correctly all but ordered sinisterly. He couldn't help but gulp. This particular guard seemed to be the boss of Vendicare shown through the obvious power he exuded. Looking warily at the microphone handed to him a shorter guard actually laughed. Could Vindice laugh? If it's as sadistic and mocking as that guard's then possibly.
"Kekeke we ain't gonna kill ya idi~ot. We wouldn't upset Tsuna. Plus now if you tell anyone no one would ever believe you~"
Verde frowned at being called an idiot but it was true. It was unbelievable enough he hadn't come out permanently damaged from meeting the feared enforcers of the underworld, it was downright madness to say he was allowed into Vendicare as a guest and compete insanity to say he watched them compete in singing and dancing matches in which they were surprisingly quite skilled in. Not to mention if the camera's some were holding were any indication he was going to be filmed singing karaoke (oh the humiliation) and blackmailed as a countermeasure.
The genius scientist knew a checkmate when he saw one. Reluctantly he took the damned microphone and took a deep breath. This was definitely going to be the strangest day of his life.
"Keiman I would advise you to stop looking at me like that."
Verde was in a foul mood. How did everyone fail to mention that there was a 'punishment' for the one who accumulated the lowest score? Remembering the night before when the announcements of the results were given he had practically felt the smug, sadistic smirks and sighs of relief when his own score was deemed the lowest. Once he had transitioned from complete denial and confusion to a resigned acceptance -not to mention constantly reassured that he wouldn't die- Verde found himself relaxing and felt almost akin to enjoyment at the activity. The more intellectual jailers got on unexpectedly well with him and Tsuna was always a pleasure to talk to.
He had definitely let his guard down. Of course there was a catch. There was always a catch. Though never did he think it was this.
The smartest Arcobaleno stared at his reflection forlornly as he was shining his new machine. In his green spiky hair various gaudy flowers were decorating it like some sort of mutated rose bush gone horribly wrong. On his face in green permanent marker was a lightening bolt on his forehead and the words MAD SCIENTIST scrawled messily on his right arm. His usually pristine white lab coat had various childish iron on and sew on designs from love hearts to smiley faces to motivational quotes. Someone (he had a strong suspicion it was the short guard) had even pinned on butterfly wings to the back of it.
To make matters worse he was required to wear it for the whole day. Yes he could take it off now considering there was no jailers in the vicinity but his paranoid nature refuses to do so. After all one couldn't be too careful. Even if one is dressed in a disturbingly distasteful fashion.
The only silver lining was that at least his only audience was with Keiman. But that would not stop the green haired scientist from getting revenge for this humiliation. He swore that the poor construction of the microphone and sensors on for picking up body movements were too inefficient causing his lack of points among other things. He chuckled darkly as yet swift fingers set to work on his new task.
And it wouldn't hurt to add some bonus points in the programming for the child-sized individuals either.