A/N: This chapter is in part, slightly NSFW due to content towards the end. Also things get heated once again between our boys as it seems Chrollo can't resist is urges anymore while Kurapika realizes he is starting to loose himself.
Summery: During a surprising visit with the leader of the Geneiryodan, Kurapika learns more about his connection towards Chrollo and just exactly how prevalent the raven-haired man has been ever since their fateful encounter in the city of Yorknew. While in turn, Chrollo sees how much he truly has come to care for the blond while reasoning his own feelings towards the young hunter.
The sound of footfalls echoed through the narrow hallway, the vibration resonating off the walls as he traveled through the length of passage that was oddly, devoid of life. The silence was hauntingly strange, giving him the sense of being perturbed and he shivered slightly. As he shuffled along the ludicrously drab carpet, the same kind of tacky furnishing that would adorn those types of cheap places despite the hotel being rather upscale, Kurapika took note of the sublime paintings and trinkets that bedecked the walls, many fancy enough to found inside posh homes and grandiose manors, but stood in stark contrast to the subfuscous material lining the flooring.
Kurapika still could not fathom why or for what reason that possessed him in coming here; his eyes flicked down to the piece of paper which sat betwixt his thumb and index of his right hand, the address and room number clearly written in elegant handwriting, symbolism of his own traitorous acceptance. Beneath it sat a brief message: Knock three times. He sighed. For unrequited moments he dwelled on everything that had occurred recently, down to the encounter and brief altercation he had in that alleyway with Chrollo Lucifer.
He still couldn't believe that he had allowed himself to be cornered and influenced, casting aside all his ethics and ideals in the spur of the moment just for the sake of possibly achieving reparation along with the prospect of garnering peace in life that he had long since, desired. But it was also in the piety of the moment, where the voices rang, both in dudgeon and sorrow where his morality swayed. Between the conflict of being rebuked along with the supplication of stress the faceless voices produced, even though one side of that mental altercation was from his worried clan and of his mother, he just wasn't sure how much more he could endure. Then there was the actual physical contact between him and the older man, how that sordid kiss left him bewildered, nonplussed and… Inveigled.
Without thinking, the fingertips of his other hand had come up and ghosted over those very same lips of which the striking man's own had come into contact with, and the remembrance of it left him feeling weakened. Just the intensity of it, how soft and warm, yet desperate, hungry and skillful it was; Kurapika exhaled. The feeling was just so strange and he was still unable to reason why he was willing to keep putting himself into situations like this.
But here he was, finally standing outside Chrollo's hotel room, hands now perspiring from just how nervous he was. For a moment, he hesitated and considered going back. The notion of being alone again with the criminal mastermind, the one who had torn his entire life asunder, the very same person that now encompassed his every thought, even into his dreams – he couldn't close his eyes without seeing Chrollo's gorgeous visage and those haunting, burning yet captivating grays had staunched his ability to even move. The very aspect was enough to practically seize his heart. Just how motivating the situation really was made it seem the Kurta couldn't further resist.
Inhaling, Kurapika squared his shoulders and his finally raised his fist to deliver the series of three knocks that was described in the note Chrollo had given him. It didn't take long for it to be answered as the door to the room was immediately opened and the tall, encapsulating man stood in the doorway, eyes intent and boring down into the blond's own, "Well if this isn't surprising." He spoke in a mordant tone, though not terribly astonished to see the Kurta standing in front of his hotel room, "I thought your pride would have kept you from ever considering in visiting with me, but it seems I was mistaken."
The intended jest only caused the young hunter to frown, though for a moment, that sensation of turning around and reneging on his mental concession in actually visiting with Chrollo had flitted through his mind again. Of course his main intention in coming here was to delve into the reasons for what was happening to him and how he became so influenced by the older man, but to just be heckled like that? It didn't sit too well with Kurapika. "I didn't come here for simple jokes Chrollo Lucifer. But if that is going to be your only focal point, I might as well-"
Chrollo's trouncing grin instantly subsided and faltered into a brief grimace, lips soon pursing into a thin line. It was one thing that he enjoyed prodding and teasing the Kurta casually, but not enough that would incidentally cause the boy to turn around and abjectly leave, "Wait." Chrollo cut him off and the blond turned back, looking at him sternly, "Why don't you come inside? We can at least talk."
As much as Kurapika wasn't entirely certain where this little venture would consequently end up, he shook his head in disbelief, but didn't refute the older man's offer. Though he simply slipped past the raven-head and into the spacious living area of the room he was staying in.
The area was quite large, decked out in varying lavish and posh items; even the furniture was ornate, down to the carpets being plush with Arabic patterning. The older man came up from behind him and gestured for Kurapika to take a seat while Chrollo prostrated himself upon the couch which appeared to be intricately woven with crushed velvet in a dark purple hue. Snorting, the blond cautiously lowered himself into the chair that sat adjacent from the older man as he kept his attention circumspect, though he couldn't help but analyze the surroundings of room the Geneiryodan head had easily garnered. Just like a criminal, and one of Chrollo Lucifer's panache to be so embellishing.
But from what Kurapika knew of the older man was the fact that something of this magnitude was rather typical for him, as he was known for enjoying and reveling in spoils with grand flagrancy, often boasting or evincing his constantly building acquisitions. The very idea that someone like this was so prodigal only baffled him that much more. One thing the Kurta had learned from a very young age was to be conservative, just like the rest of his village where commodities weren't an ample thing and squandering was frowned upon. When you come from a world where supplies are not abundant, you quickly learn to ration what isn't so easily replaceable.
Seeing someone being so grandiose, careless and not frugal only seemed to baffle Kurapika as to be wasteful was one thing that would more often than not, make him feel a sense of pity. But then again, this was Chrollo Lucifer and someone like him had a tendency to be flamboyant.
How droll. Then again, the Kurta wagered he shouldn't have been anywhere near surprised all considering. Even as he eyed the man from across the heavy oaken coffee table that sat inlaid with baroque carvings, it was easy to tell that he was comfortable with his own surroundings. Kurapika readily noticed the substantial amount of confidence the other held, even with the knowledge that he was rendered Nenless, his current state still within Zetsu.
That didn't assure the blond, because as even without access to his Nen, it didn't make Lucifer any less dangerous. Still, the rational part of his mind told him to exude caution, while the other part of him cried to be more mollescent. Even amid that, in the furthest reaches of his consciousness were those ever unremitting voices. The very same that seemed to be constantly attempting to guide him, yet controlling him and every time any thought that was contrary or opposite of the new demeanor he'd been importuned into taking caused them to become more prominent. Kurapika briefly closed his eyes, returning his focus back to that of the other man in the room.
For now, he needed to focus on the main reason for him coming to visit the one person he now cannot seem to rouse his hatred towards.
"So," Kurapika's attention was fully captivated once he heard the older man's voice ring out amid the silence, those haunting, ashen eyes peered at him from practically beneath ebony lashes, something else that made the blond hunter squirm beneath Chrollo's gaze, but at the same time his breath seemed to hitch. Kurapika swallowed hard. "I assume this visit wasn't meant for just idle chit chat," Chrollo began as he reposed, leaning back against the couch, hands lacing on his lap, "and that you came to discuss what happened a few days ago?"
It took a moment for Kurapika to compose himself. Perhaps it was due to the fact that the outward, projected calm the older man exuded or the weighing gaze along with the manifested and overconfident air that spoke of Chrollo's own certainty regarding the circumstances between them was enough to slightly disconcert the blond. Even knowing he had access to his own Nen and the pressure that squalled deep within him, the fact Kurapika couldn't seem to – or perhaps he didn't want to, transmit the will to even unlock its presence was something he couldn't fathom why, "Don't play coy with me; of course you know damn well why I am here," Kurapika quipped, his mood slightly shifting to a more aggressive state, posture becoming a hint more defensive, "I still want to know exactly what the hell happened between us back in the alleyway. Moreover, I want to know what kind of hold you have cast over me because ever since our little fracas back in Yorknew, I haven't been able to move on as I have not found any peace since you have been haunting my very existence."
For over five months the Kurta had been forced to essentially face the weighing notion that even when he committed to his decision of abandoning all his past convictions in favor of moving forward and towards a more propitious way of life, such was only wrenched away the moment those plaguing dreams began to haunt him. Ever since, he hadn't been able to get the older man out from inside his mind.
Hell, from what Kurapika could remember, the leader of the Geneiryodan had been a constant fixture in his life for as long as he had known the man. Or, at least for how long he had known of the man. But, ever since their deadlock in Yorknew, it seems that even then, Chrollo Lucifer had something of which had been an extrusive part of the Kurta's very existence.
The blond clicked his tongue in exasperation. It was one thing he had neglected to even think about. Even before those intrusive dreams started, back to just mere days after delivering Chrollo upon that vacuous plateau, the older man had pervaded his mind, his thoughts, almost taking over him. That was, until the nightmares started.
So it seemed that Chrollo Lucifer had an even greater, more substantial hold on Kurapika then he really cared to realize. Much less, admit to.
Chrollo leaned forward, intrigued. So it appeared that his predictions had far exceeded his expectations. This was indeed a new development. He didn't expected to hear that he had long since, even before the boy had decided to seek him out, had become the center point of the blond's practical existence. Chrollo hummed at the notion and a faint smile crossed his lips as the realization of this addition to the circumstance between them could also prove to be beneficial. It demonstrated that the Geneiryodan head had influence over the Kurta, and for quite some time now. Or, he had for longer than he originally anticipated.
"Well first things first," Chrollo had casually reached over towards two, long stemmed wine glasses that resided upon the elegant surface of the table, his other hand clasping the wine bottle that sat beside them and poured some of the contents into them. He then gently pushed one of the fragile glasses towards Kurapika, "This is a Pahlmeyer Merlot, a finely aged wine that is said to taste like berries. Personally, I find the contents smooth, pliable and enjoyable." Raising his own glass to his lips, Chrollo regarded the Kurta from over the rim, the expression that soon crossed over the younger man's immaculate visage spoke of true scrutiny. Such was to be expected, however. Yet, a small part of him held onto a perennial hope that Kurapika would actually fall into respite for once. The younger man was always perpetually on edge, "I am sure you may find it just as enjoyable as I do. Perhaps it will even help you relax for once."
The slowly deteriorating and unreadable mask that Kurapika tried to use in attempt to conceal his emotions soon fell away, replaced by a blatant, aghast expression, his eyes growing virtually wide. How the hell could he even consider allowing himself to let his guard down much less grow too complacent around the older man? It was something that the blond couldn't even so much as entertain. Granted, he had conceded in actually allowing himself to visit Chrollo, down to being alone with the man in his hotel room of his own accord. But Kurapika wasn't about to give him too much credit even though he had begun to feel differently towards him.
Once again the studious hunter regained his lost composure, concluding in not allowing the older man to rile him and regained his cacographic mask. Though in attempt to give off some impression that he was remotely mellowing, his lithe digits curled around the stem of the glass which was proffered to him earlier and decided to take a sip of its contents, "Don't go and get too gratuitous, you just may find it backfiring." Kurapika warned, his own eyes narrowing as he watch the man coolly, "There are still matters of business to attend to and any frivolous pretenses will result in a nullifying of my visit. I surely didn't come here to have my time wasted."
"Right." Setting the glass down, Chrollo instantly began his explanation. Of course he had to keep the blond entertained enough to at least prevent him from attempting to leave, or at least wanting to leave. He had way too much at stake to lose. Small, flicking threads of emotion whisked off the younger man and indeed, Chrollo was able to tell that there was still an infinitesimal connection between them.
In the back of his awareness, Chrollo was certain that the Kurta's emotional standpoint had changed in regards to him. Though Kurapika attempted to contravene the fact that his mindset had indeed, began to alter, there was at least an iota of emotional connection between them. Even though the the majority of what had them linked was more physical, there was no denying the slowly forming mental connection germinating between them.
"Well, if you must know, I will say this; I know nothing of what had been occurring with you prior to your arrival in T'alma. Honestly, I am just as surprised as you by your little admission. I could say that I am flattered you thought of me so much after our initial meeting, but aside that, I have no knowledge of anything else. Also I genuinely have not cast any spell over you as you can see," In demonstration, Chrollo's arms extended wide in a mock, yet grand flourishing display, a smile crossing over his lips, "I still have no access to my Nen as I am quite sure you can easily confirm. So it's safe to assume that I in no way, have any direct control over your own motives or what has been happening to you."
Chrollo knew his own concessions weren't entirely accurate, as he had omitted the more prevalent portions he knew would have surely agitated the Kurta and unraveled everything he had so poignantly worked towards. But moreover, to lose what fair amount of trust he was gaining with Kurapika would be a great misfortune.
Rolling his eyes in exasperation, Kurapika inclined forward, arms coming to rest upon his knees as his incrementally weighing gaze which was like liquescent fire, sat levelly on the older man, knowing damn well that he wasn't being completely honest with him. There was still that underlying deceit, as if Chrollo was indeed, holding something back.
"You're terrible at lying, you know? While you may be mostly correct in your assumptions, I know for a fact you have had a vast and very heavy influence in my own emotional change as of late. One of which I want to know why. As for the other," He took another sip of the deep red contents within the glass – strangely enough, he found himself agreeing with the older man as he had become rather fond of the taste himself, and returned his attention back towards his adversary, "Is the fact that after our encounter at Yorknew, I began having dreams, which were equivalent and recrudescent, always beginning and ending the same. What is more, or as I should say, the rather interesting part," Kurapika reclined back again, eyes still firmly locked with Chrollo's own, though briefly, the young man found himself mesmerized by their visual allure, taking in their wondrous beauty before realizing he was fixated too deeply and returned his focus back on his speech, "Is how it ends. After being bitterly reminded of what happened to my clan, the last thing I would see is two haunting grey eyes, the very same that was later concluded which had to represent you."
For a moment, Chrollo was astonished. So the blond had openly admitted to having dreams about him? But moreover, he hadn't mentioned anything regarding a prompt that started all this. It didn't entirely faze him as he figured that because of the kind of life the Kurta led, it was enough to have incited many traumatizing effects, down to potentially pervading dreams. He knew that Kurapika had suffered a lot – which was in part by his own hand, and was something that Chrollo felt contrition for. All the insurmountable pain from everything the younger man endured surely had caused him a lot of adverse effects. So it was of no surprise to Chrollo that the other was probably suffering some form of PTSD. But then he ruminated over the fact that Kurapika noted he visualized his eyes boring into him at the end of his dream. Could that have been the prompt? Or to be more accurate, that he was the actual prompt?
It was something Chrollo then realized was just how much more connectivity he had to Kurapika than was originally perceived.
The raven-haired man stroked his chin thoughtfully; he attempted to approach this as diplomatically as possible, "Have you considered the fact that perhaps, you hadn't entirely let go of your convictions despite that I clearly remember you stating you would no longer peruse us? Or the possibility that you have not been able to move on because you had not made peace with your past, or to be more precise, not made peace with yourself because of it?"
He took another draw off his wine; it was still rich and fine, which aided in keeping his own nerves calm, and focused his attention on Kurapika. The shock or perhaps the achieved epiphany that seemed to flood to the surface of the blond's countenance was enough to bring about a small, faint smile and Chrollo believed that he had struck a chord considering the bewildering expression that soon followed.
However, as difficult as it was to - even if hesitantly, concur that Chrollo was more than likely correct, Kurapika was forced to accede to the truth. Slipping back to that day, the fateful one five months ago where he encountered the Ryoden member, Uvogin and their impending battle which had lead to the Spider's death at the Kurta's own hand and the soon, empty, impassive and ineffable feelings that was left in its wake, Kurapika realized he truly had never come to any sort of concession. Even then, he had continued to wallow in misery and loneliness, which had always been a part of his life and bringing about the cessation to even one of the people he swore vengeance against for all his tribulation hadn't garnered him any sort of release. It was then Kurapika concluded, was where he failed himself and his clan.
Everything his mother had spoken to him finally rang throughout his mind in utter clarity, for it was in those very averments that Kurapika realized exactly what she had meant.
"As much as I don't want to state you are right, you are. But this doesn't mean I am entirely accepting of everything else occurring between us. I am still perturbed by the fact that you... Had exploited a momentary weakness I had, which again, as much as I'd like to admit even less, was something I did not find totally detestable," Kurapika breathed slowly, his chest still feeling constricted as if he had been placed within a vice, heart beating at a rapid pace, "and something else I would like to admit the least, but won't, is the fact that," Once again he strained, voice cracking from the chaffing that seemed to be ensuing from the arid sensation which coated his mouth, "You are a good kisser."
Good kisser, indeed. For Kurapika, the older man had actually been his first kiss, one thing that the Kurta didn't let on but Chrollo possibly suspected was the case. A flush of crimson soon effloresced over the younger man's pallid cheeks, tinting them in a nearly deep color. Such didn't go completely unnoticed as the subito of Kurapika's accession caused the Geneiryodan leader to set down his glass and the look that accented within those unblinking eyes spoke of a predatory gaze. Yet, beneath the outer layer was something more enticing, more rakish. "So, you are at least accepting of the fact, or perhaps admitting to the fact," His back came to rest lackadaisical against the soft, downy cushions of the couch, posture speaking to the blacklist hunter that the older man was definitely hubristic which evoked a vein of irritation to well within the blond, "that you came here for reasons aside just seeking answers. For you to openly avow that you realize there is at least a physical attraction between us speaks for itself."
Chrollo let his demeanor soon betray the truth behind his words, putting up an easy front in attempt to convince the other man before him. Truth be told, he only wanted Kurapika to finally understand, or at least see that what had been transpiring between them now wasn't being done by his violation, alone. Granted, Chrollo had given the Kurta the tools necessary to derive is own conclusions and with enough incentives, was able to help in delivering the push and guidance necessary into him accepting the veracity of their current situation.
As strong as these facts were, Kurapika was still having difficulty coming to terms with the conception of his recently developed feelings for Chrollo. Something burned down within, almost drawing him like a moth to a flame and it frightened the young blond, but a part of him, the side which was stronger, wanted to explore this new venue and maturate on those feelings.
It was this very reason that Kurapika was now finding it extremely difficult to formulate a response to Chrollo's rather pragmatic response. On one hand, he still was unable to fully come to terms with just how nonchalant the older man was being in regards to this entire spiel, as the Kurta was finding out that he wasn't entirely certain on the circumstances between them. Especially considering that Kurapika was realizing it was becoming more and more prevalent that he was no longer able to conjure hatred towards him, even after all he and his Spiders had done, but he found himself becoming more receptive, more unbiased. On the other hand, Chrollo's ministrations and attentions which were so methodical and structured, yet extremely attentive towards his needs, was something that Kurapika found rather surprising, yet backed the theory that perhaps, the most notorious, ruthless, indifferent murderer and thief actually had some humanity to him. Or one could say, actually possessed a heart.
Kurapika however, was still conflicted. But the notion of actually giving this man a chance, just like his mother had so desperately beseeched of him and the fact of his newly manifested feelings towards the other was beginning to win him over.
However, he regarded Chrollo levelly, still working the nerve to actually attest just how right the bastard really was, "As much as I'd like to say you are completely wrong – as doing so would have been the perfect response to your rather emblematic gloating, I have decided to refrain as it would actually prove nothing. With that in mind, I will state that, yes you are correct," Kurapika swallowed thickly, though he didn't show his inquietude outright. Decisively he kept his composure, not wanting to give older man any edge over him despite that down in his consciousness, something was tugging at him and he had to resist the urge to actually allow himself to come any closer to Chrollo, "I am indeed, here for more than just answers. But I am not about to allow you to think that you will have control in this situation, Chrollo Lucifer."
So there you have it. Chrollo was literally delighted to have this mitigation, as the Kurta's concession was enough to alert him to the younger man's finality in accepting what was actually growing between them. How long the he awaited this day, "Oh do not worry for I have no intention of trying to force you into doing anything you wish not to do. I can say however, I am relieved to hear that you at least have come to terms, or at the very least, an agreement that you acknowledge the connection we both share." Adjusting his positioning, Chrollo turned his head away from the blond and towards the empty seat beside him, hand gingerly patting the vacant cushion. It was then he returned his attention to the restive youth across from him.
He felt his body become almost completely rigid, mind practically stupefied at the sudden revelation, and despite finding himself nearly going comatose, Kurapika's aura surged, rising around him and becoming ubiquitous as he had for the moment, lost control of his emotions. The air around them became menacing and the blond's stare grew in intensity. The luminosity of the boy's eyes flickered as scarlet permeated the once virulent blue and he tightly pursed his lips, "Just remember one thing; should you allow yourself to step out of bounds, I will not hesitate to retaliate." The Kurta warned, and just as quickly, as it happened, his aura seamlessly retreated, going back to its placid, dormant state. It was in that moment that Kurapika rose from his seat, still filled with ambiguity and skepticism, but ambled over to the empty spot on the couch and sat down, eyeing the older man warily
Chrollo raised an eyebrow at Kurapika's intransigent threat, though his hands came up in a pacifying, yet defensive manner, "You do not have to worry, as I don't plan on doing anything you do not approve of." The raven-haired man began, though he couldn't help but allow a fleeting smile of exultation to cross over his visage, "However, I will not bite Kurapika. Rest assured by that as well. You can come closer."
The sound of his name rolling off the lips of the older man caused Kurapika to bristle, but it quickly abated and he inched closer to Chrollo, though agonizingly slow before he was sitting practically against the man, and the moment their bodies actually brushed, the breath seized within the blond's throat as he struggled to retain hold on the gasp that imperiled to escape. It was then he felt two fingers slip beneath his chin, decisively lifting his head up to meet at eye level with the raven-head, "There, was that so bad?" The man practically cooed in a mollifying tone. He could see the ephemeral pause in Kurapika's calm demeanor and the sudden flash of ruby that tinged the edges of his eyes, but it instantly receded. Even then, Chrollo realized just how magnificent the Kurta really was. Kurapika was truly exquisite, but even there it did not stop.
Being in such close proximity to the younger man made his heart palpitate in his chest and that pull he felt so many times, the very same he knew the blond was sensing himself, tugged again at the back of his mind. Every time he was around Kurapika, he felt enervated and as much as that fact concerned him, Chrollo had no desire to change the effect it had on him. Quite to the contrary, he was beginning to realize just how much he enjoyed the blond's own hold on him as he knew it was going beyond just rudimentary physical attraction.
Chrollo found himself fixated on the young Kurta's eyes as he just drank in the artistry that composed the brilliant man before him, "You truly are beautiful."
Damn him. Even as the blond found that he was utterly allured by the older man's affectionate gaze, just the state Chrollo had him in had Kurapika's head pendulating and feeling as if he was within a drunken stupor, which left him completely entranced by the other's presence alone. His nostrils flared and the scent of spice mixed with expensive cologne enlivened his senses, causing the beating of his own heart to steadily increase. Without cognizance, Kurapika slowly and wordlessly climbed onto Chrollo's lap, straddling the older man as lithe, fragile appearing hands came up to clasp upon both of his shoulders. He exhaled sharply, looking Chrollo dead in the eye.
The alteration in their positions had Chrollo instantly surprised, his eyebrow raising again curiously, "Well, this was unexpected-" He began in an amused tone as his own arms came to encircle the younger man now positioned on his lap, tips pressing into the skin through the Kurta's clothing. However, his affirmations were abruptly cut off.
"Just shut up and kiss me." Kurapika snapped, daring the older man to speak any further, and with a knowing grin, as if he was silently professing a yes sir at the blond's command, Chrollo inclined forward and captured the blond's lips with his own, instantly drawing them into a passionate kiss. Wasting no time, the raven-head let his tongue dart out to immediately delve inside Kurapika's mouth as it sought out the boy's own and began twining with it, the two appendages gliding along one another in an intricate, rhythmic dance.
It was like molten fire, temperate, yet soft and appealing. As Chrollo's lips crushed against Kurapika's own in hunger and wanting, the sensation only fomented the blond further, his own motions starting to match in practical equivalence while the symmetry between them grew as he was slowly finding his own balance. Despite it was briefly overwhelming, the natural sensation it produced easily coaxed him deeper into the sin he knew that at one time, he never would have allowed himself to become a part of. But just the way Chrollo's lips felt against his own, the proficiency of his movements and just how fervent, passionate and adamant the older man was as their kiss only served to deepen, was the same exact sensation he felt the first time they experienced something this intimate.
For Kurapika, this felt so perfect, so right.
Even as they both soon became lost and abandoned within the moment, Kurapika's mind had completely seized, all rationale submersing into the deepest reaches of his mind from the driving intoxication which was slowly consuming him. Languidly, his slender hands made their way up and into the crop of short raven colored hair, fingers twining amid the downy tresses. Time seemed to stand still, and for a breadth of a moment Kurapika faltered to the pleasure from the touches and motions of the older man, his mind going numb as he struggled to focus on the one person who was now the most important thing to him. Chrollo easily perceived this and his grip on the blond tightened due to it.
Seamlessly and without missing a beat, Chrollo gradually altered their positioning while he began to lower them down upon the couch, Kurapika's back soon resting against the cushions as Chrollo came to lay on top the younger man that was now beneath him. Severing the kiss, both of them flushed and impassioned from the vitality of the moment, Kurapika's eyes opened to find dark, impenetrable ones staring back at him, his own reflection cast within them and he was able to catch the glimpse of red that shone upon their surfaces. During their exchange, his eyes had shifted into scarlet which caused a breathless gasp to accent the silence. Chrollo had become nearly mesmerized by their luxuriance, the vibrancy he noted was so much more alive than those he remembered floating lifeless in their canisters, "Such beauty." He whispered huskily, mouth starting to trail warm kisses along the blond's shoulder, causing Kurapika to gasp haltingly in response.
"You really are amazing," He continued, lips deftly working their way over the expanse of Kurapika's delicate skin as Chrollo reached the base of his neck and instantly bit down knowing that his actions would surely leave a visible mark behind. But by God he couldn't help himself; the blond was just too enticing, too intoxicating and the way the Kurta below him panted and groaned, the heaviness to his breathing and the strained rising and falling of his chest, it was all Chrollo could do to resist the temptation to ravage Kurapika.
No, he would take it slow, let the blond set the pace, for lest he could unbalance the situation and fluster the younger man, which was the last thing Chrollo wanted to do. He simply suckled gently as he listened to Kurapika's intermittent gasps and felt the articulation of his unbidden motions, the blond's hands having shifted again during their alteration and came to rest against the planes of Chrollo's back, tips mindlessly kneading the flesh beneath the fabric of his sable top.
"Just... Keep going," Kurapika articulated almost breathlessly, back arching up and against Chrollo's muscular chest in sheer response to the adrenaline that surged through his much smaller body, "Don't talk so much."
He grinned against Kurapika's skin at the admission, having then lifted himself up to peer into those half-mast, lust glazed eyes that shone so brightly amongst the dimly lit room, "Are you so sure? Because I thought you'd love to hear my praises on just how perfect you really are." Chrollo didn't give the younger man any time to respond as he adroitly reclaimed those tender, soft lips, drawing Kurapika back into another prurient, but this time, much rougher kiss. Once again, their tongues instantly wrapped around one another as Chrollo had briskly invaded the blond's torrid mouth, wasting no time partaking in the honey and flavor that was being offered to him, and the very combination alone gripped Chrollo down to his very soul.
There was a possessive feeling to the impulsive nature in Chrollo's deportment; just the way Kurapika felt his lips swell and bruise with how fiercely the older man was kissing him and the way his tongue forced itself into his mouth – it had taken the young blond by surprise. His eyes had opened and the verve that spun deep beneath the surface had captivated the raven-head's attention, catching a brief glimpse of those opulent scarlet hues before the blond fell into an even rhythm and finding unison with Chrollo's own movements.
Kurapika's body trembled as the older man above him let his hands come to rest along his sides, fingers trailing the etches of his clothing in aimless patterns and causing the fabric to slowly ride up. Soon those tips had come into contact with bare skin as Chrollo let them slip beneath the hem, partaking in the contact that soon produced such an invigorating sensation.
Once again Kurapika gasped from the soft and gentle touches as every nerve and vein inside him seemed to thrum, making him feel alight from the way his skin seemed to grow in warmth along with the electrified impulses that sluiced through him. The mixture of emotions that instantly flourished between them coalesced into something so passionate and highly sensuous. It was as if he was getting carried away and was allowing himself to be liberated. He became wanton and lost in the moment, falling into abandon, giving into corruption as a victim of his own descent into delirium and sin.
Kurapika could barely think, much less discern exactly what was happening as his own instincts seemed to have strangely dominated. His body was acting of its own accord, and was becoming highly receptive to Chrollo's attention and touches. Just the way his hands slid and caressed over Kurapika's bare skin, the calescence of his breath and the ardency of their kiss that was hungry and fierce, and the way Chrollo moved against him only made it that much more difficult to retain hold of his own emotions. Slowly the young hunter was losing control of himself and in conjunction with the ebbing of his will to resist – not that he wanted to or cared to along with the empowering flow of desire and need, it had easily kept him steady while he remained comfortable and content within Chrollo's loving charm.
Now Kurapika couldn't let go and he didn't want to let go. Even though there was something in the furthest reaches of his subconscious screaming at him, it demanded that he cease this little folly, for he would surely find repercussions later on. However, the young man pushed the dissidence as far back as he could and discounted it. The outcome caused those darker much more pervasive voices to rise in triumph, clamoring loudly in his mind and the abrupt uprising momentary startled the blond.
Sensing this, Chrollo broke the kiss, gazing down into Kurapika's now startled eyes, though their ruby chroma remained. He hummed, "Are you alright? Did you want to stop?" He spoke, concern edging his tonality and words, one hand slipping away from the pretty blond's side and he gently cupped his chin, "I completely understand if you want to." As much as the very idea of suspending their little performance made Chrollo feel disappointed, he wasn't about to force Kurapika into continuing. He wanted to keep forging that binding of trust, and doing anything that could profusely violate that was something the older man adamantly repudiated against.
"No-no, I am fine. I just... Had a momentary lapse in focus. You don't have to stop." He exhaled discernibly and Kurapika tried to pull much needed oxygen into his agonizing lungs. Chrollo had watched him intently and the shaken Kurta wanted to pull away, to advert his eyes, to look at anything else aside the piercing gaze of the older man and the genuine concern housed within. But, he couldn't look away as he remained benumbed by the other and just how profound, yet somehow gentle expression that was upon Chrollo's countenance.
The older man simply hummed again in response and leaned in closer, "Are you sure?" This time the timbre of his voice was more sensual, more covetous. Kurapika simply nodded. Smiling once again, Chrollo dipped down to place a couple of much more tender kisses to the blond's now deep pink, but tumescent lips, "If at any time," he murmured, slowly trailing the younger man's skin once again, motioning intermittently over the Kurta's jaw line, paying attention to Kurapika's body language and the once again, irregularity of his breathing, "You want to stop, let me know."
So Chrollo wanted to be alerted if he wished to stop? Something made him think that the older man wouldn't allow that happen regardless if he was to permutate that decision or not. But the candor of his words kept Kurapika from completely settling upon that notion. Still, he was tightly wound within the moment and the pleasurable sensations that were being garnered off their little escapade had Kurapika in reluctance of stopping just by that alone.
"Don't worry, I will." Even through the admission was relatively truthful; Kurapika saw no reason to cause this moment, one that the blond was finding himself becoming more engrossed by, to a see a premature end. Instead, Kurapika let his eyes falter, lids partially covering the lustre of those bewitching rubies and he canted his head angular, exposing his neck further and giving Chrollo easier access to him. The younger man felt the warmth, the wetness, the torrid swell of hungry kisses and bites as the older man assaulted the exposed, tender flesh and left visible marks in his wake.
Chrollo grinned against porcelain hued skin as he kept trailing the planes of Kurapika's neck with his tongue while placing soft kisses and intermittent bites along the way, each motion causing heavy, laden gasps to expel from Kurapika's throat. Though much to the older man's dismay, nothing was too deep or sonorous.
The sensation was great, enticing and it drew the Kurta further, as he cascaded down into the tempest that was passion and yearning. Such carnal need and animalistic desire, though beneath the surface wavered the vein of tenderness, love and softness. The amalgamation of these sensations, the synthesis it produced and what affect it ultimately had on Kurapika's own besotted mind left him feeling necrotic as Chrollo's own web spun tighter and tighter around him. Kurapika struggled to breath, each intake caused his chest to burn and it was like liquid heat burning through him as it surged down to his core, to the very center of his nucleus.
Just the way Chrollo's body meshed with his own, fitting against one another almost perfectly as his hands were once again, firmly at the younger man's sides and tracing the mezzotint of Kurapika's muscles and sinews incited another soft gasp and he inclined into the touches. Slowly, Chrollo's palms motioned upward, gliding effortlessly beneath the loose clothing which hung over the blond's slender frame, exploring and memorizing the expanse of his body and the way Kurapika's breaths hitched in his throat as he did so.
The Kurta's own hands had glissaded down and over the amplitude of Chrollo's biceps, taking his own time to marvel and admire at just how strong and chiseled the darker-haired man was, and the simple fact that even though he was inexperienced, having very rudimentary knowledge of the human body, just having explored what he could of Chrollo's own physique only enmeshed him further. The knowledge and revelation of exactly what was transpiring between them and the significance of what Kurapika was truly feeling, or exactly how Chrollo was making him feel only solidified further just how right this really was. A small part of him struggled with warming up to the fact that he really liked Chrollo, but it had definitely gone beyond anything that could have been considered merely superficial.
Because of this, the boy continued on without hesitation, even as once again, Chrollo's sweltering mouth hovered just over his parted, inviting lips, while Kurapika's lithe hands trailed back upwards and soon found their way back into the man's soft and silken tresses, "Gods, I just cannot get enough of you." Chrollo murmured huskily against the delicate blush of those supple mounds, and an expression of embarrassment caused the Kurta's cheeks to flush profusely. From this alone though, he had already suspected that the younger man who lay beneath him was still innocent. "I assume you have never been with anyone before?"
How unequivocal, wasting no time getting to the point. Once again, the allegation only caused the color along his neck to just deepen.
"I have not been with anyone, man or woman, prior to this as I still have my purity." The simple declaration evoked a brief look of surprise upon Chrollo's visage, but it soon melted into something much more mischievous and indecorous.
"I will definitely have to correct that sometime in the near future." It was such a perverse thought to cross his mind, though as much as he wanted to enact on those ravenous, carnal desires, once again he held back in favor of keeping the impression of control in Kurapika's hands. Well... As much as he hated to admit, he wasn't about to usurp the blond from such a position. Quite frankly, he was enjoying the pace the younger man had set, for granted, Chrollo wasn't inexperienced and had partners in the past, but none held a candle to the vitality and beauty of Kurapika.
The Kurta not only was a relic, but was unique in his own right and that alone made Chrollo cherish what he had that much more.
Strong fingers slipped beneath Kurapika's chin and gently elevated his face to be more level as he looked abyssal into those incandescent rubies he reveled in so much, "Well for me," Chrollo began, longing and yearning dripping off the edge of every word, "I am far from pure, as I am sure you have already guessed. However," Closer those lips came to Kurapika's and he could feel the older man's irriguous breath while the look in his eyes only intensified, making him shiver beneath their alloyed stare. The blond's grip slightly tightened within those raven locks, "I would love to be your first."
It took everything up to this point to keep from completely falling bidden to those much more innate and primal instincts; the sudden look of incredulity along with an overtone of interest and curiosity wavering just underneath the surface of those glowing eyes and the stillness of that alluring body - Chrollo swallowed hard, breathing in deeply. God he hated holding back, but he would for Kurapika's sake for he wouldn't defile the boy, because what was really important was for the fact of the blond to share his sentiment and desire, and he was only prepared to enact if Kurapika expressed the same want in going all the way with him as well.
Chrollo's thumb gingerly stroked at the corner of Kurapika's lips, hoping to ease any tension and or reservations the younger man may've been having, as his own body remained stationary despite being rightly positioned between the Kurta's parted legs. Much of their anatomies were already pressed tightly against one another, the warmth and pulsation that vibrated through them felt like pure heaven, and even Kurapika had to admit that the sensation was strangely placating. Something stirred within, like an unremitting yearning that only continued to seize him amid its sweet and honeyed call and even though he basked in the splendor it produced, there was still a little vein of uncertainty.
However, considering the circumstances had started to change between them and to the point where Kurapika no longer felt the compulsion to eliminate the Spider from existence, he readily admitted that being this close to Chrollo no longer angered him, or did he thoroughly wish to resist the man any longer. Hell, he even was enjoying their osculation as he still conceded that the raven-head was a damn good kisser.
But the prospect of going that far in such a short amount of time, especially with the one person he was still gradually coming to accept while trying to sort out his own emotional standpoint regarding his newly formed feelings left him completely tentative. Despite this along with his own instincts and desires urging him in continuing on at such a fervent pace, Kurapika let a soft smile cross his pallid lips and one of his hands slipped from its perch amid Chrollo's hair and cupped the man's cheek, "As much as I'd like to, I don't feel now is the time. I just... Want to take it slow." The blond intoned, cooing softly before lifting up to place a chaste kiss to Chrollo's own lips, "For now... I just want to enjoy the moment we have."
Chrollo retained his cacographic mask, not showing Kurapika his disgruntlement as he simply nodded, though he had surreptitiously hoped his precious blond would had been accepting in the partaking of something so much greater, exciting and for the chance to make the younger man feel good. But in the back of his mind, he knew Kurapika would eventually come around.
So for now he would wait and continue to cultivate the growing bond between them, the pad of his thumb making a general sweep over those plump lips before letting an affectionate smile finally cross over his face, "I understand." He whispered, just noticing that Kurapika's eyes had shifted back to their natural state. Those cherished blues looked up into his own with attrition and Chrollo could tell the Kurta either felt bad or was worried about disappointing him and it only solidified his reasons in hiding his consternation regarding the boy's decisions. He cared enough for the younger man that he didn't want to make him feel any worse about his decision. "Then we will just go slow and at your pace." Yes, slow and steady, for he wanted to make Kurapika feel as comfortable as possible.
Slowly, Chrollo breathed, through the essence of desire still hung in the air, he momentarily drew in on the special aroma that only Kurapika produced, indulging in the unique scent. The fact that even though things didn't go as he had hoped, Chrollo was still content with the notion that he had been able to experience what physical contact he could, while minimal, it was a major advancement between them. He just stared admiringly into those eyes, drinking in all he could for what time he had, "Do you wish to cease our little venture, then?" The older man questioned, though he had a more lucubratory expression on his face, "We can continue when you feel more comfortable."
The proclamation was enough to affright Kurapika, for he never expected the older man to be so veracious. He remained thoughtful, though a bit circumspect in the Geneiryodan leader's abrupt and sudden change of heart. Not that it was a bad thing, quite to the contrary, but the celerity in Chrollo's pace did make him retain some caution.
Regardless of circumstance, Kurapika wasn't going to easily let go of what little enjoyment he was allowing for himself, austerity be damned.
The blond's lips curled into a coquettish smile as his arms came up to encompass Chrollo's shoulders, lacing his fingers behind the man's neck. A soft hum vibrated from inside the blond's throat, "Oh, I see no need in stopping completely," Kurapika cantillated, pulling that much stronger body down and closer to his own while tightening his grip, "As I won't deny I have been at least been enjoying your proficiency in using those lips." This time Kurapika grinned and the raven-head could see the impish gleam reflective in those eyes. He really did like kissing Chrollo.
"Then your wish is my command." Chrollo whispered airily, capturing Kurapika's mouth once again, drawing the beautiful young blond into a swell of passion, ecstasy and ardency as he pulled their bodies even closer then the Kurta once had. His powerful hands had slid up and cupped the back of his head, gently twining his fingers within the golden strands as he slowly deepened the kiss, which Kurapika readily accepted as Chrollo's tongue met with his, the two appendages instantly curling around one another in a battle for dominance.
The eminence of his admission incited Chrollo's focus to fall solely on Kurapika's own whims and desires as those soft gasps and heavy panting only served as confirmation of the younger man's approval of his current ministrations. Such affirmations added to the reason for him to continue on and, only wishing to keep evoking the sensation of feeling good for the Kurta, wanting nothing more than to take him into the grandeur of paradise.
§§§§§§§
The cool night breeze whisked through the open window, its feather light caress rustled over the soft, niveous features of almost youthful imperfection and was like cradling fingers that whisked through the golden crop of hair which sat splayed against the arctic hued pillow. Light, quick breaths could be heard as slightly rosy lips sat parted, chest rising and falling beneath the velvety sheets from hampered, laborious breathing. Though eyes were not fully closed, their rutilant hue was practically haunting, yet mesmerizing beneath the pale, opalescent glow of the moon, the blue reflective in an almost glassy appearance. For a moment stillness enveloped the room, as if time had executed a vast end into nothingness, only the night's sounds proof that anything existed before a soft gasp, an almost exult sigh broke the silence.
Even as he lay there, lost between contemplative reasoning and riveting passion, the remembrance of the day's earlier events still lingered heavy in his mind. The variegated flow of images that slid into his consciousness only added to the building obsession of one particular object – or person that completely occupied his thoughts. He couldn't seem to relegate the appearances from invading inside his head, the very memories of what transpired, of those precious moments spent embraced within the arms of his enemy, his former enemy, and the calidity of their kiss, of those lips upon his own, made Kurapika gasp again. His own body seemed to tremor, nerves alight and pulsating as the gripping throes of elation slowly began to seize control even though the resistive part of him found his descent into sin and debauchery rather perturbing.
He couldn't fathom nor concoct any reasoning for how he had become so enraptured by the gorgeous raven-haired man. But somehow, just somehow, that bastard, that magnetic, provocative bastard managed to coax and entice him, effortlessly abolishing his once raging sea of hate and animus. The resentment and loathing which had been his primary reason for living was now ebbing away and becoming nothing but a faded memory. The very idealism that Kurapika would forget, that he would no longer hold fear towards the very man who was the anathema of his own existence had the wavering blond caught in the throes of dismay and surrender. It was a difficult choice, because the titillating feelings that he experienced when with Chrollo still clashed with his protracting convictions. God he hated being torn.
Such was the same now despite his body screamed otherwise. Like those bewitching grey eyes in their vast, captivating allure, just the way they would bore into Kurpaika's very soul and draw the enfeebled Kurta beneath their compelling gaze; the very thought of it caused his to breath hitched again as his lithe frame jerked roughly along with his unhindered motions. The fluidity of his actions while those fingers of his free hand trailed along bare skin as the other remained fixed in position, it was these very reasons that Kurapika realized just how captivated he really was. Chrollo had him thoroughly entrenched and he was finding more and more he didn't mind his current situation. In fact, he was realizing just how much more enjoyable his life was becoming.
Perhaps this was the significance of what his mother meant?
Or, the purport behind the need in finding that greater propriety in life?
Was this the correct path towards true happiness?
It was within these very sensations, and just the way everything integrated from all the varying sources, both positive and negative had become the embodiment of something beautiful and majestic. It was a wondrous and enigmatic creation that formed despite the variance of ugliness and wretchedness, which spoke of true succession within the power of harmony and love.
Even though achieving this level of serenity was vast and eminently distant as the ascension towards ataraxia was a long and onerous one, it was at times like this which made Kurapika feel as if he was just dust in the wind.
Kurapika didn't want to struggle – he had done so all his life, always living while dancing upon the razor's edge, never knowing from one minute to the next whether or not he would continue to breathe or cease to exist.
But now, things had taken a turn for the better. Not that he quite understood the actual meaning behind why he was being led up to this point, but slowly, ever so slowly it convinced Kurapika to let go. The reason for everything occurring as it had, remained shrouded in mystery. However, he wasn't concerned with finding the answer. Never had he thought that such a day would ever come or that he would have been so willful in actually exonerating from everything he so adamantly vowed to see completed. Granted, what had been done could not be changed and the pain still lingered down in the very corners of his being, but the alleviation to his tribulation resided in the one thing that was now persistent in being the focal point of his attention. For Kurapika, Chrollo's intentions seemed genuine and sincere. Every action, every attempt was benign and nothing he sensed was remotely malicious in the man's energy.
Of course the head Spider was without his Nen, but something in his motives only reinforced the will to remain at ease, even while in the older man's presence.
Like he how felt now, even though he was currently alone as he laid on the bed within his hotel room, Kurapika remained enwrapped amid the continuously fluctuating river of desire which had caused his emotions to run ramped as his need flowed vigorously through him. Tighter that hand gripped, cinching off the potential surge, delaying his impending completion as he indulged in the sensation just a little longer while his opposing hand continuing to wander over his bare skin as the combined touches precipitated another ample jerk from his body and he released a vocal cry. Kurapika knew he was close. Oh so close.
How the raven-haired man was able to do this to him was something that perhaps he'd never fully understand. But the more he thought on it, maybe it was something he really didn't care to understand, for he was content with the current way his life was turning out. Kurapika would perpetuate his stance at his own pace, letting things develop as they may and in essence, be able to definitively conclude if he was truly meant to have a future with him, with Chrollo.
For now, he locked into the phantasms that played through his mind, each vision another that firmly bound and enamored him as the intensity of his growing want and need only proceeded with imploring the attraction that he was continuing to have towards Chrollo. The palpitating of his own heart fell into a rhythmic pace, nearly beating to the uttered impetuosity of the older man's name as it rolled off like honey from his supple lips. It was like saccharine, just how it sounded when he chanted it amid the sonority of his laden panting along with the soft gasps and moans that escaped the depth of his throat, its concession just another admission of the longing in which Kurapika harbored. Each stroke, each caress, the way his hand slid practically flawless along his swollen, and agonizing erection, just the way his back arched each time he crowned, how the imagery of those tantalizing eyes and that devious smile which he found had its own tempting charm; Kurapika was losing himself into wild abandon, and it was in those very moments when realization fully struck.
Kurapika was falling, and falling hard.
This time there was no adversity, no resistance, no bitterness, all that was left was the sheer compulsion to achieve something better, something greater and the dynamic pull it had on him as it sustained the connection he shared with Chrollo made him feel invigorated. Just the elation alone that was invoked from the indirect contact made it all the sweeter. Every thought made in regards to the tall, gloriously handsome man succeeded in him becoming more, and more hooked and without reservation as he allowed himself to keep descending into madness, one where Kurapika knew he was becoming submissive to the darker tendencies of his corrupted personality.
Such was said even now. The same lack of restraint he had as his pulse raced and his groin burned, the pressure continued to mount as he knew that soon, his need for release would be eminent. He heard the whispers that echoed in his ears as he delved back to the very words Chrollo uttered during their last moments of passion and the promises made, the momentum of his actions finally threatening to make Kurapika come completely undone. It was in this, upon the remembrance of those wondrous memories and the way the older man made him feel that was the final sonata as his body trembled, hips forcing upward and against that hand which constricted himself as waves of heat caused his skin to ripple and beads of sweat to form and roll off the surface. All his boundaries soon fell away and he heard himself call out the name of the very person that he was now bound to as he gave one final thrust and the molten warmth that spilled forth a the final proclamation that Kurapika was indeed, lost as he surrendered to the darkness.
His back came down and hard against the bed, breathing labored while he reveled in the aftermath of the bliss and rapture that gripped him, his entire body completely sensitized, limp and unable to move as he slowly started to descend from his euphoric high
For what felt like boundless moments as he lay there, mind and body spent, crumbling from exhaustion, it took every last ounce of his fading energy to at least, be able to impel himself from the sweat soaked sheets and into the bathroom to wash up. The entire time his mind remained within an encumbering haze, movements minimal and precise and he barely avoided the possibility of meeting his own scrutinizing gaze that was reflective in the mirror as his glazed over eyes averted away, not wishing to deal with his own weighing stare at the moment. Doing so would evoke the odds of that tiny voice which he kept repressed from lashing out to judge him.
Sighing resolutely, he ambled back into the bedroom and slipped once again between the sheets, deciding it was best to think over and sort through everything he had been going through after some proper rest, as he has been through a lot over the last four months since leaving Yorknew.
But then again, even during his slumber, which was the one place he sought the refuge and sanctity of his dreams, the invasion of what relentlessly haunted and pursued him made Kurapika feel as if he could never escape what fate had truly wanted from him. Perhaps it was just his jaded perspective talking, but at the current, he wasn't completely at rest, even with the shifting of the tides. He hoped that over time, and with the reassurance of his mother's own testimony, he would no longer find the need to continue battling against his own inner demons, because for at once, Kurapika longed for that peace and tranquility which had been absent from his life. It was because of this he just wanted the happiness he so rightly deserved.
Before settling down, he reached for that precious, jilted stone which he now found that he cherished as much the precious relic which he wore constantly around his neck. As his digits closed around the yellow and red hued object, its smooth and cool surface pressing invitingly against his palm, a perfunctory thought on the stone's origin suddenly came to mind. Kurapika hummed, and a smile crossed his lips as he settled fully, eyes landing fleetingly on the vase of roses that seemed to glitter beneath the pale moon glow before finally slipping contentedly to sleep.
After Thoughts: This chapter actually is now the longest one and took the most time to critique due to how much I wasn't satisfied with some of the narrative and dialogue, which is another reason why it took me so long to get these last two chapters loaded. I suppose us readers are our own worst critiques, eh?
Also I am sure you guys were expecting something more - laughs, despite the sudden turn of events. But rest assured, there will be much more deeper romance and contact between these two as the chapters progress. ;)