A/N: then usual - I've been dealing with ongoing health issues and now I am working more as I prepare for an upcoming con next month. But I should have no issues with giving you guys at least two chapters a month. Was hoping to maintain a four chapter minimum per month for this fic but unfortunately, it's not possible. :(
Hey at least content in future chapters will well enough make up for it. :D
This time, the lovely Sweets Dreamer has beta'd this chapter in place of Piyo-nii since Piyo is out of town. :
Summery: Kurapika and Chrollo finally make their move to retrieve the Scarlet Eyes, but not everything always goes according to plan.
Kurapika expelled a heavy laden sigh, eyes focused upon the lurid reflection that seemed to stare back, judging, scrutinizing. His golden locks were disheveled and tousled; a few strands fell in front of his piercing blues. Almost instinctively, he reached to tuck the errant strands behind his ear.
Something within the phantasmal image inside the mirror had captivated his attention. So many times in the past, Kurapika regarded the always seemingly present apparition with acuity, but there was also an overt vein of perusal. Every time those eyes would look back, he felt as if he was looking down into his very own soul. At times it was harrowing, almost crushing, knowing that beneath it all, he could see the hollow shades of his own forsaken morality.
Losing one's way and forgetting who you are, what you are, it was as rebarbative as it was in letting go. Even as Kurapika was once again attempting to find himself by rediscovering who he is, and what purpose he has, well, it was also something he needed to learn to accept, and learn to construct. Being at odds with yourself was suffice it to say, a bit strange and paradoxical, if at the very least, daunting.
But Kurapika wasn't above the challenge, nor was he determined to resist the will in seeking change. Granted, he was still fighting that internal war while struggling with the facilitating innovation that was slowly and steadily progressing in the rewrite of his ideals along with the progressive transformation to his chaotic life in general.
Of course this didn't come without a price. One that would eventually instigate a huge cost. But in the long-run, would also glean a greater payout.
Kurapika had long since mentally prepared for whatever may come his way, but had since stagnated as a result due to multiple reasons. One being Chrollo's strange, yet alluring behavior. For so long all the Kurta could do was stew in his own self-loathing. Constantly whittling his life away as he had progressed down the path of total annihilation, where the end would only be anything but eternal peace. It was not what was destined for him, nor was it the story he was supposed to forge. So many cold and interminable nights he had spent cleverly plotting how to derive the best way in extracting his own impellent revenge. But never realizing or perhaps just not caring that such decisions hadshackled him.
However, times were changing and it was a slow mind altering process that was repeatedly drawing him further away from his dangerous ways, from the only life he ever knew. It couldn't be said Kurapika wasn't accepting or welcoming to such idealisms, but the simple fact of learning to completely vindicate himself, and from there to let go.
For another moment he gazed at himself in the mirror, fingers raking through his golden crop of hair. As he reached the tips, it was then he snorted in mirth.
Falling back from his introspection did those spirited blue eyes land once more on the image staring back at him, but this time, an entirely different thought crossed his mind.
"I did tell you for one, you need a haircut as it is probably one reason you are being constantly mistaken for a girl, which I advise you do after we complete our mission tomorrow."
Chrollo´s words replayed over and over inside his head, constantly reminding him of just how incorrigible, yet right the older man really was.
Swiping his fingers through his tresses once more, Kurapika faltered to silent resolution. Damn that bastard. Why is he always so persistent? It was something Kurapika had always wondered, but never completely understood. He felt no closer to comprehending Chrollo's motives, even as he stared down at the article before him which was spread out intricately over the bathroom countertop.
For a moment Kurapika scrutinized the item before him which seemed to be at the moment,the bane of his existence. Reaching forward, fingertips went to touch its delicate surface, though he nearly recoiled as if it was constructed of fire and yet, the vibrancy of its sequined surface instantly drew him back. With a grunt, he allowed his hands to clutch into the fabric, raising the elegant dress off the surface and examined it. Waves of navy blue cascaded to the floor, pooling at his feet as he lifted it up, causing it to glint beneath the lights within the room, as if thousands of diamonds had been woven into its intricate patterning.
One thing Kurapika noticed aside it had a halter top was the shockingly low cut in the back, which practically ended above where his ass would be. Just thinking about it made Kurapika feel instantly nonplussed and a bit bewildered. When he committed to being stuck wearing a dress in order to disguise himself and pass as a wealthy woman to get into Consta's high class function, he didn't expect it to be something so scandalous! Intermittingly, Kurapika's hands balled into fists, nearly tearing into the fancy dress, silently cursing that he would see Chrollo pay for his treacherous act.
At the moment, he knew that unfortunately there was no turning back. Regardless of how discomfited he felt, his clan's indemnity was at stake. He had to retrieve the Scarlet Eyes, no matter the cost or the consequence. Whatever reservations he may have been experiencing, he had no other choice but to cast aside his own personal bias.
Kurapika sighed, relaxing his grip on the dress and concluded that the sooner they got this over with, the better.
What annoyed Kurapika the most was the ineffable amount of time it took for him to actually get the thing on. It seemed to hug him in all the right places, even around the hips which only conformed to his effeminate frame, giving him the appearance of having an hourglass shape. Rippling bolts of blue draped from his legs, falling to the tiled floor only to trail around him, which strangely enough, resembled the image of a mermaid's tail. The blond scoffed and wondered how anyone would even be able to walk around in such a thing, especially with that much silk pooling around the feet. But it was the least of his concerns as he glanced over at the type of shoes that was picked to go with the dress. Kurapika practically cringed.
They were of the same color and sequined, but with a heel so thin and high, it made Kurapika wonder if anyone had fallen while wearing them. Fearing that his own ankles would fall victim to such an outcome, Kurapika continued to send a mental prayer that he wouldn't end up with a broken neck by the end of the night as he took the time to finally slip them on, once again stringing together a collection of silent curses as he attempted to steady himself while wearing the infernal things.
Looking himself over in the mirror, it was startling just how easily he transitioned from having any plausible appearance of being male in any way to that of solely female. Aside from the lack of any breasts, Kurapika looked picturesque as a very prominent and high class lady, even down to his shape as the dress made damncertain to be form fitting and snug.
It definitely wasn't something he was keen on; quite to the contrary as it caused a slight feel of dysphoria to waver within the blond's mind. Nevertheless, he steeled his resolve and committed to finishing off his little disguise before Chrollo decided to come busting the door down wondering why he was taking as long as he was.
Remembering that there was one last detail to add to his little masquerade, he reached over to a small cosmetic bag that Chrollo had conveniently gotten for him and opened it up. Fishing out a few items – something else Kurapika wasn't too thrilled with putting on, and laid them out on the surface of the counter. In no way was he an expert in putting on makeup and was already sickened by the notion of actually having to put the cursed stuff on his skin.
But he swallowed his pride and started out with accenting his eyes with mascara, making sure to give his lashes a lush, full look. After completing that, he moved to putting on foundation, which after spending a few frustrating moments trying to figure how to apply it without leaving crease marks along his cheeks, Kurapika managed to finally get it to appear smooth. His features were now looking more accented.
Finally, he dabbed on a little eyeshadow to make the color of his eyes pop and then added lip gloss before completing his little farce. Though upon seeing himself once again in the mirror only added to the rising bile in the back of his throat which he had to keep suppressed.
Once he put everything away and took a few steps around the meager space in an attempt to learn how to balance while walking in what were practically stilettos, Kurapika felt he was ready to join Chrollo in the main room. Yet, something in the back of his mind left him still feeling perturbed for once the older man would lay eyes on him, the blond was convinced he would have some informal, orlecherous comment. Kurapika readied himself with silent resolution that if such were to happen, he would have no provisions with punching Chrollo directly in the face.
With another exhale and mental preparation, Kurapika exited the bathroom.
A brief clicking of heels captured Chrollo's attention and he turned just in time to see Kurapika enter into the room he had been waiting in. Looking up from his cell phone, instantly his eyes began to rove over the curvatures of the Kurta's body, realizing that his choices had indeed, been good. Waves of dark, oceanic blue appeared to flow in rivulets from Kurapika's hips and down into pools upon the floor, the trail behind it gave the image of it being one of those mythological creatures he read about only in books. Mermaids, he remembered them being called. Kurapika seemed to shift beneath his weighing, lingering - and as expected,hungry - gaze, causing him to instantly bring his arms up around himself, suddenly feeling exposed.
To a fault, it made Kurapika uneasy, out of place, just the way Chrollo eyed him reminded him of a shark circling its prey. Mentally, he had to remind himself that Chrollo was an enigma, who was peculiar and half the time he did things that didn't make a whole lot of sense. Like he was doing now. Which only furthered to incite Kurapika's over powering discomfort.
"What are you staring at?" Kurapika snapped as a somber look crossed over his visage. "You've been watching me since I've come out of the bathroom." Kurapika tightened his arms around himself, believing that if he held onto his slender body long enough, and concealed what bare skin he had, he could virtually disappear at any given moment. But he couldn't help the feeling of being stripped naked by the other man's eyes, those taunting, compelling grays practically drinking him in with each passing moment.
"Well, I simply cannot help myself," Chrollo lifted up from the sole arm chair residing within the space they were occupying and closed the space between them, coming to stop just before Kurapika. Two fingers soon found roost beneath his chin as they proceeded to lift his head up, eyes locking with the older man's. "as you are rather stunning. Not to mention, quite beautiful. Blue definitely suits you."
Leaning down, Chrollo came mere inches from Kurapika's face; the man's breath was warm and pleasant against the surface of his skin. "Besides, you shouldn't worry too much. Before you know it this will all be over, we will have the eyes and you can forget this little folly ever happened." Even if there was truth to Chrollo's words, it didn't help abate the trepidation Kurapika was sensing.
There was still the matter of them going out in public to stand before the wealthy and prestigious. While the older man knew he wasn't a woman and behind all the lace, jewels and makeup, Kurapika was still as equally stressed as he was prepared, it still made him feel uneasy. Granted, he was no stranger to cross-dressing and had readily done so out of necessity. But to commit to it again, especially while in the presence of his strange companion; Kurapika shivered. The sudden feel of soft lips brushing against his own brought him out of his idle thoughts.
He stared at Chrollo wide-eyed, almost completely taken aback by the composed, but assured action. Without thinking, Kurapika leaned in, letting their contact only become firm, palpable, the older man's palms cupping his cheeks as for a few spare moments they indulged into a light, chaste kiss. Once they broke apart, Kurapika let his intense gaze fall on the older man once more, though the Kurta wasn't as agitated as he had been prior.
"Just don't go and get any ideas. I am not wearing this thing for your benefit." He added, his voice stern as he reiterated his profession from the night before. Surely Chrollo had at least enough decency and restraint to not allow himself get overcome by his own desires while Kurapika was stuck wearing the bloody thing that now encased his lithe body. Even if he found the dress comfortable and velvety against his skin, it didn't render him from wanting to remove it as soon as he was able to. Continuing to be displayed in it only served to further his apprehension.
Still, despite the rather blatant warning, Chrollo couldn't help but snicker, though more to himself then directly at Kurapika. Stern blue eyes cast a judgmental look towards him that could have been considered enough to practically kill.
Even as Chrollo dared not over step his boundaries lest he incite the wrath of one irate blond, he let his own gaze drop towards the extravagant three piece suit he wore. Idly, but needlessly, he began smoothing out the nonexistent wrinkles in the blazer before adjusting his tie. He could feel Kurapika's eyes watching him levelly, cuttingly.
Again Kurapika huffed, finding it rather awkward to walk around in those ridiculous heels he was wearing. He mentally berated himself for being so easily jockeyed into doing something as unbelievable as going on this fatuous endeavor of theirs as he felt corralled into something outrageous and shameful. Assuredly this would be the very last time he'd commit to something like this again, "So, how much longer until this little reception starts? I am definitely eager to get this show under way. But are there any final details to go over beforehand?"
So far, Chrollo had discussed the finer details of their course of action needed in order to retain the Scarlet Eyes. Though the main part of their plan was already heavily constructed, thought out and strategized, Kurapika wanted to be methodical by making the procedure as infallible as possible. One could never be too careful, which was a thought constantly in the back of his mind. If they were to complete this mission with as little obstacles as possible, then Kurapika knew they had to be fully sure of every step necessary to complete the task at hand.
Checking the time, Chrollo knew they had just a few scant hours left until Consta's grant viewing. Even though he had been fairly confident in the decisive maneuver that he had thoroughly planned out between himself, Kurapika and Shalnark, it seemed that his companion had become quite distressed, showing a level of anxiety that Chrollo wasn't quiet used to seeing the blond exhibit.
He had figured the original reasoning was due to the incommodious situation Kurapika was being put through, which the older man was feeling sympathetic about, but the sensation that wavered off the younger man's aura, spoke of underlying anxiety. One hand came to rest on the blond's bare shoulder as he gave it a light squeeze in hopeful reassurance.
"It will be alright. We got about two hours before Consta begins accepting guests. For now, I agree we should go over the plan once more with a fine tooth comb before proceeding, at least to ensure that we complete this mission successfully." Thinking back on it, Chrollo had thought that in reality, one could never be too careful and making sure this mission was completed as smoothly as possible was top on his priority list.
He gave the younger man's shoulder another reassuring squeeze.
"Before anything, to aid in concealing our identities, I have set up fake last names. I made sure to pick something that would be commonly used by someone in a position of wealth and power. I finally settled on the Allencort last name. It was actually a name used by a line of royals during ancient times." Chrollo knew he had taken a huge risk when he delved into famous bloodlines of the past. But he was fairly certain the Allencort name had died out a very long time ago.
Pulling his hand back and letting it fall to his side, he let it slip into the pocket of the trousers he wore, extracting his cell phone from its confines. "I also have everything set up already with Shalnark in regards to the security system. At seven pm sharp, Consta will begin the event with a speech, followed by a reveal exactly thirty minutes later. A social gathering will then follow the viewing, which we will utilize as our time to strike."
The screen lit up as Chrollo tapped a few buttons, sending off a quick text message before returning the phone to the pocket of which he had gotten it from, "At promptly eight pm after everyone has moved out of the main stateroom, Shalnark has been instructed to disengage the cameras and lights. It will be from there we will make our way from the antechamber back to where the eyes are and retrieve them. We will have exactly ten minutes to get to the eyes before the security system reactivates."
Chrollo knew that there was a lot at stake in regards to enacting each step with exact precision and timing, for one false move could easily jeopardize their entire mission. "I am going to need you to follow my every instruction Kurapika. Down to the letter. Regardless of how you may feel, it's imperative that we work together with full cooperation. If not, I foresee a critical outcome that very well may cost us the entire operation."
It wasn't that Chrollo didn't trust Kurapika, he knew he could put every ounce of faith into the blond's wits and skills without question. But with his temperament, it definitely brought cause for concern into Chrollo's mind.
Those penetrating blue eyes and that indomitable spirit; Chrollo was able to adeptly sense it, feel it down to the very core of his being and Kurapika's aura was as profound as ever. The resonating pull only invoked a sense of attraction, but also rose a thread of concern. Chrollo liked it when the pretty blond - his pretty blond exuded his own level of control. Yet, with a force as vehement and defined as Kurapika's own inner passion, it made the blond all the more desirable. It was just one of many reasons that made the leader of the Genei Ryodan continue to house an affinity for Kurapika. Perhaps in reality, Kurapika was really Chrollo's greatest weakness.
Not that it really mattered when he was determined to keep Kurapika in his life and at his side.
"You have nothing to be worried about." Kurapika responded in a flat tone, "I do not like the idea of you telling me what to do, but I will not give you any further qualms with following your instructions. My main concern is just getting our hands on the eyes." In retrospect, for so long, Kurapika had been used to being his own person. To living how he saw fit and by his own free will. Being doled out orders aside anyone but his boss, like Light Nostrade, never sat too well with him. Especially when said orders were coming from the man before him he had sworn to vanquish, but no longer felt the drive to do so.
So Kurapika suppressed the urges and welling inclination to resist. Doing so would conclusively get them nowhere. Also it wasn't as if Chrollo didn't know what he was doing; Kurapika knew just how cunning and tactful the older man really was. An S-Class criminal with a bounty on his head that no one had ever been able to fulfill, even Kurapika himself. It was enough to garner respect from the blond. Chrollo was capricious, proficient and sometimes ostentatious, but he was also a paradox, the simple analogy of the perfect illusion, like the wind. There one minute, gone the next.
It was just another nail to the coffin that invocated Kurapika's need and attraction towards Chrollo. Even though he neglected to admit to it. Kurapika huffed again when that damned smile he seemed to love so much crossed over Chrollo's plush lips. "That's good to hear. Though, I do have faith in your abilities. The skills you possess along with your capability and intelligence precedes you. Together with my own knowledge, integrity and abilities, I have confidence that we will pull this off without much of a hitch." He inclined forward, one hand coming to rest along Kurapika's cheek as he cupped it, thumb tenderly stroking the skin beneath. "You truly are something special."
Chrollo could hardly contain his own praises, even after Kurapika expressed shock at the notion. It was something the younger man wasn't used to, but he had been slowly becoming accustomed to and was growing a fondness for. Once his initial consternation disappeared, he fell into a brief silence, instinctively nuzzling into that soft, inviting palm. Perhaps Kurapika was starting to have an epiphany of his own. One with the very realization that maybe, just maybe, everything that was happening to him was occurring for a reason and that conceivably, he and Chrollo were meant to be.
Just like his mother had projected. Just like she had wished.
Each and every day was a constant reminder of why he was in the situation he was, and along with each new day it seemed to gradually bring him and Chrollo closer together.
"Don't continue to oppose, just let go."
The voices which constantly buzzed about in his mind never seemed to cease. Always there. Always present. But they spoke nothing but the truth. Even if they were only in part, what was guiding him towards a destiny that had been mapped out for him, Kurapika could only watch it inevitably, unfold.
Cold washed over the surface of his flesh once Chrollo's hand retracted and his diverted focus went inquisitively back to the older man's countenance. "It's about time we get going. We don't want to be late and good attendance is best for helping to maintain our projected appearance."
As Chrollo began to draw away, the expanse between them starting to grow from a fissure to cavernous, Kurapika's expression transitioned from miffed and perplexed, to wistful and crestfallen. For reasons unknown, the younger man looked almost as if he had been disheartened by the premise of Chrollo's actions not but moments before, as if he had been expecting... Something more. A frown crept along Kurapika's visage, though it was something that didn't totally go unnoticed.
He was resolute, quickly succumbing to the fact that even if he had wished to spare a little more time, just a few moments where he could rest inside the boundaries of contentment, such was not the case. Even as appealing as it may be, time had inadvertently ran out. Kurapika couldn't rationalize why he was feeling the way he was, but something made him want to stay with Chrollo just a while longer.
Still, he had a duty to uphold and a mission to complete. This was no time for frivolities and committing to mortal permissiveness would only cause him to stagnate and deviate from his actual goal. He needed to get it together, get his mind collected and on track...
Something resided beneath his chin, lifting his head, grey eyes meeting his own, "There is no need to look so dejected." Chrollo purred, though there was tenderness to his voice. "Once it's all over, you can have me all to yourself."
Kurapika couldn't believe him. What was Chrollo thinking? Did the older man consider him so weak, so unconstrained so... Depraved that he was practically drinking on the older man's presence? But then again, he was hit with a sudden wash of awareness and Kurapika stopped dead in his tracks. Suddenly, everything became so clear. It was something he didn't realize before, but now wished he had.
The Kurta looked thoughtful, not a hint of adversity among his pristine features, "Actually, I would like that." He said simply, a scant smile crossing over his slightly pink lips.
This time, it was Chrollo who was surprised. Such a dramatic change, almost vast in comparison to Kurapika's usual demeanor. Whatever had brought on such a huge change of heart made Chrollo even more curious.
However, he said nothing as he simply nodded and smiled as a response to the younger man. As astonishing as it was; and yes he was indeed, pleased with the positive changes by his pretty companion, Chrollo didn't become too eager or flagrant with Kurapika's shift in pace. Even with as tempting as the idea was, his true goal was still to win the blond's heart.
For now, they had to focus on their current objective. "Good." Looking over the younger man and his attire once more, Chrollo turned to leave, this time without hindrance, "It's time to go." He continued, taking Kurapika's hand, gently pulling the other to him. "Best not to dawdle."
Agreeing for once with the older man, he allowed himself to be guided out the door of their hotel room.
It was larger than expected. Grander than anyone has ever seen. Finer than one could have hoped for. So many people dressed in their best livery milled about the well manicured courtyard as a sinfonietta played elegant, classical music.
The drone of voices could be heard as those of prestige; lords, ladies, and high-class status prattled on about either their grandiose exploits, acquisitions or to boast of their accomplishments. So much vainglory was in the air and it was all Kurapika could do not to choke. Even as they had arrived at the gate, his hand resting like a proper lady on Chrollo's arm, though the idea of it was much to his dismay, Kurapika had a hard time retaining composure.
They had easily secured their first task - getting past the checkpoint where a guard was inspecting invitations to the guest list, and making sure no one of erroneous intent made it into the private function. Which was laughable as Chrollo knew they had infiltrated with barely any hitches. Though the guard had given them a rather strange look as he compared their invitation to the list of guests, but let them pass without so much as a word.
Inside the soirée appeared to have long since been underway. Women in exquisite, delicate gowns roamed about in a majestic sway, while men in recherché appearing suits held long stem wine glasses and talked casually amongst one another. It was clear to Kurapika that that most of the people here were either vintage or relic collectors and seeking the rarest items, or hoping to catch a glimpse of some of the more elusive and legendary things ever rumored or known to exist. Seeing this many people congregated in one place with practically the same common goal - all in the practical name of greed, simply astonished Kurapika.
As he and Chrollo strode through the grand, ordinate doors, the soft, resonate clicking of his heels echoed loudly in his ears and enhanced the deafening sensation of his own apprehension.
The lump which formed in the back of his throat was painful to swallow, even as Chrollo guided him into the grand ballroom where everyone was presently amassed and the feeling of being lead into a virtual lion's den reigned supreme. But it ebbed away little by little as he felt the older man's unmitigated reassurance as a constant and comforting presence.
The grand ballroom was filled with a sea of bodies in a constant sway of motion, their voices filling the air. Though it was much more refined being this close, the collection of sounds had instantly drew his eyes.
Even the amount of people who had joined the affair was in a sense, overwhelming and Kurapika glanced quickly towards Chrollo whose eyes were intently focused forward. But after mere minutes of acute observation, Kurapika felt the older man's fingers gently tapping the back of his hand and he looked up to meet Chrollo's stern gaze before those grays shifted in the direction ahead of them. "There, standing within that gaggle of ladies, the one with the white and grey dress is Consta Fernandez."
His own attention drew ahead to where Chrollo had motioned towards and his eyes landed fixedly upon a woman adorned in an arctic, silken dress that seemed to house layers of petticoats atop delicate lace. The pattern was filigree in appearance, decorated in a mosaic of design. Flowers and leaves coalesced into an appliqué setting that wrapped around the rim of the dress, flourishing upwards into a setting of sequins, which trailed up to a patterned corset that was hinted in a golden design.
Of course, it wasn't unexpected to see the rather stereotypical fan wealthy women tended to carry resting between her white gloved fingers, which wavered every time she spoke to one of the matrons that surrounded her.
Instantly, it seemed her eyes, which were a piercing shade of green, landed on his slender figure and a sudden compulsive sensation of criticism and judgmentalism washed over him. Her gaze was weighing, calculating, like a cat stalking its prey and Kurapika felt a shiver race up his spine at the very thought.
As if Chrollo sensed it too, Kurapika's own attention turned back towards him, though a serious look was painted across his masked countenance. "Perhaps you should attempt to mingle. Get a feel of the area and its surroundings."
Kurapika knew the risks and was willing to play his gambit. But something in Consta's icy stare just spoke of a predatory hunger that completely unnerved him. Something about it was worse than anything he had ever felt before. Even Chrollo's past advances were never that disquieting. "We will meet back here in thirty minutes in time for the viewing." Kurapika simply nodded.
Silently, he cursed his choices, for as soon as Chrollo had blended into the flowing masses, a slender woman who couldn't have been much older then he was had approached him, her snowy white gown appearing to flutter behind her. The confident gait she carried only spoke of a true hubristic nature, though something else resided within the depths of those green eyes, ones that seemed to bore down into his very soul.
"Greetings, pleased to make your acquaintance," The woman began as she curtisied, her gown sweeping about her as it appeared to glitter beneath the lighting of the room. It was almost gossamer appearing. "My name is Consta. Consta Frendenz. Who might you be?"
Kurapika remained still, almost as if he had become completely inert, though his blue eyes watched her dubiously. The way she stared at him, how that gaze was heavy, laden, practically scrutinizing, as if she was always judgmental of everyone around her regardless of status, it made him inwardly shiver. "Kurapika Allencourt." He responded slowly, mimicking Consta's posture and falling - albeit awkwardly, into a near proper curtsy himself. Damn. He would make sure to thoroughly berate Chrollo later for this harebrained idea of his. "What do I owe the honor of your presence, m'lady?"
One thing he had made sure to do was research on the formalities and appropriate etiquette used by upper-class socialites. Not once had he taken on the idea in the past of associating with anyone from the beau monde of society, (unless you count his time dealing with the elite inside the Mafia) but now he was being forced to deal with those who have swollen egos and corpulent sized wallets. The very notion of it sickened Kurapika, but he kept his farce unwavering.
"You are a new face around here, aren't you?" The resounding click of the fan she held as it was being snapped open caused him to flinch, part of her visage now hidden behind it. Her eyes watched him intently above the rim, "I do not believe I have seen you before at any functions prior to this one."
There was a despotic tone to her voice, one that spoke of someone used to being in charge and just the way her aura emanated around her was enough to give pause. This was one lady Kurapika definitely wanted to give a wide berth. "Yes, I am definitely not from around here. Personally myself, I have been traveling lately, seeing what the world has to offer and what treasures can be found."
"I see." Consta responded cautiously. It wasn't hard to tell that the woman was being overly skeptical. "Also, who is the dashing young man that was with you? Your husband perhaps?"
Kurapika's throat suddenly seized. The very mention of husband made Kurapika's mind whirl in a myriad of emotions. How she ever was able to come to such a conclusion not only astounded him, but made him feel as if his stomach was going to knot up as a result.
Unfortunately, to keep the illusion to their current guise, Kurapika had to continue on with the notion of Chrollo being his husband. Inevitably, he continued on, his fist flexing and unflexing unconsciously at his side as he attempted to keep up with this little fancy of theirs, "Yes he is. My husband and I have arrived in Bathas as we heard about the substantiality and prosperity it holds. It is here we also had learned about your fine collection and wanted to partake in seeing the grandeur of what you have acquired."
The air never seemed to change, even by a degree, but the rigidness to Consta's posture had abated, even if by a fraction, which only served to ease Kurapika's own mounting tension. It appeared that perhaps, she had taken the bait of his little factitious story, making him feel slightly more confident in seeing this mission through. But it didn't keep him from proceeding with extended caution.
She lowered her fan, though a strange smile crossed her ruby painted lips, "Well yes, that makes perfect sense," and she laughed, though to Kurapika it felt more like amusement then not, "as to why I have never seen you or your handsome husband before. Getting out and seeing the world is always fun, though it has been something I unfortunately, have not had much time for."
Kurapika almost felt a minute amount of pity for the woman. Most of his life all he did was keep on the move, constantly viewing the world around him, even if the circumstances for why were less than amiable. It was one thing he had the fortuity in seeing, despite in retrospect, he dearly missed the forests of Lusko.
"Who is this lovely young lady?" A voice called from Kurapika's left, alerting the blond to a familiar presence. Turning his attention away from Consta, it landed on a tall man coming up beside them, his grey eyes watching them inquisitively.
Once beside them, Chrollo bowed elegantly in Consta's direction, though that provocative smile crossed over his lips and Kurapika felt his gut clench again. "You must be Consta Frendenz I presume?" The sudden change in pace and the older man's presence definitely altered the weight in the atmosphere. But the now perturbed Kurta felt himself slightly bristle. What was once a cold and precarious situation suddenly shifted to something more flirtatious and salacious.
The woman blushed. Literally Blushed! and it was all Kurapika could do in order to restrain his slowly rising anger. "Why yes, that is me. How did you know?"
What transpired next would have completely set Kurapika off had he not found his inner strength and composition of will to not completely and utterly, strangle the man beside him. If the coercion been any stronger, he was quite sure he would have hauled off and decked Chrollo where he stood, "Well it's quite obvious. For one who harbors such beauty and grace as you only speaks of someone with high status." Chrollo added smoothly and lifted her hand up to kiss the back of it, causing the blush on the woman's cheeks to only deepen.
Kurapika felt his own fury intensify.
"Your husband certainly has very well placed mannerisms, Kurapika. He is quite flattering. You must consider yourself very lucky, indeed."
She reopened her fan, letting it once again come before her countenance as she waved it gently, "Well, if you will excuse me, I must get going. It's almost time for the viewing and I must prepare my speech. I do hope you both enjoy yourselves." And just like that, she walked off, her elaborate dress rippling behind her.
Once she was out of earshot, it was then Kurapika turned to face Chrollo as he wobbled a bit (he couldn't wait to get those cursed heels off), his expression becoming incensed. He raised one finger and pointed it at the older man, "I swear one of these days I am going to kill you Chrollo Lucifer. You and I will have words once this is all over."
Turning away, Kurapika silently affirmed he would let Chrollo have it once they were back in the safety of their hotel room. Despite the last few times his companion vowed to stop nettling him, it seemed that Chrollo indeed, enjoyed toeing the line. It was one habit - and a bad one at that - which Kurapika would have to break out of the older man.
Before Chrollo could respond, a voice echoed throughout the vast room and their attention was abruptly deflected from their current discourse towards the front where Consta had positioned herself. Looking towards the massive, ornate clock that hung on a far wall, Kurapika knew that soon, they would be able to finally enact on their little plan, which he started mentally preparing for as their hostess began her formal speech.
Which seemed to drone on, even Chrollo looked eager to get their job underway. Before too long, the moment they had been waiting for, finally came to pass.
"Ladies and Gentlemen. The time has come for what you have all been eagerly waiting for. If you will follow me into the exhibition room, in there you will finally be able to behold the beauty of many rare items and exquisite artifacts I have managed to collect over the years."
A low hum encompassed the room as everyone filled into the area where Consta's collection awaited, and Kurapika balanced on practical pins and needles. Chrollo offered his arm for a second time and Kurapika instantly slid his hands around it, fingers clutching tightly as the older man glanced down at him. The tension between them fomented and it was then Kurapika knew he was close to completing part of his goal, "Shall we?" He heard the older man beckon to him and they followed everyone else into the room where he knew the eyes would be.
The collection was vast and impressive for one prominent women to acquisition on her own. There were several rare and unusual looking items that were all on display behind cases of glass. Each and every one was either valuable, rare or a relic from an ancient time.
As Kurapika began flitting around the different displays, something caught his eye. Inside a smaller looking case sat something silvery and sinuous and he slowly moved to stand before it. There was a familiarity about it, something he recognized. It was two circles, one large, one small. Both adorned in an ornate design and connected by a unfathomable silver chain. The more he looked at it, the more his cognizance of what it was came to light.
Never once had he thought anything to this context or caliber existed. Or did he believe he'd get to see anything this archaic. It was rumored there was a civilization which had existed before their own, but seeing something from that era in person? Then everything he read about in it the book Chrollo had given him must be true.
A firm hand on his shoulder snapped his attention from his momentary thoughts, "Found something of interest to you?" Chrollo had come to stand next to him, his own eyes now focused on the object before them.
"Not really. It's just something I remember reading about in a book once."
The older man smiled and Kurapika let his eyes land on him, "Then you may want to come see this; I believe I have found what we had come here for." Tilting his head angular, his unbound locks fell in a flourish to the side of his pristine face as Chrollo motioned for him to follow. Kurapika tried to keep pace behind the older man while trotting in bloody heels with a dress that swept copiously around his concealed feet.
He inwardly swore he would rip the forsaken thing off once they got back to their hotel room.
In the center of the room amid a few observers, sat an oval case harboring a canister which enclosed two floating red eyes. Kurapika felt his breath hitch in his throat and Chrollo's arm came around him in an instant response. The older man shook his head and detained the blond from doing anything imprudent or brash. He felt the younger man inspissate, but made no motion to exit the spot he was in. "It won't be much longer now, Kurapika. In another ten minutes everyone will be prompted to head into the stateroom for socializing and that will be when Shalnark severs the power and security systems. We must be prepared as we cannot be imprecise for our time will be vastly limited."
Their objective was a tricky situation as is, and Kurapika didn't want to be the cause for its downfall. Swallowing his anxiety, Kurapika waited with as much patience and fortitude as possible, even if he was finding it difficult to resist the urges and enact without cue.
"I know. It is just very challenging for me to see them in the state they are and not do something about it while I simply just stand here."
There were moments when Kurapika had wanted to outline the blame for his struggles in retrieving the eyes at being the fault of Chrollo and his Spiders. Which to a point, he was correct on and actively did lay the blame on them for his current, onerous journey. However, it was the older man's willingness and cooperation in helping him retrieve the eyes which the Spiders stole in the first place that was making it hard on Kurapika to solely continue in faulting them. Especially Chrollo.
His feelings, those emotions were constantly getting in the way. More and more he was finding himself emotionally attached to the older man.
Sighing, he knew at this point he had gone too far and was in too deep to turn his back on it now. All Kurapika wanted to do was find the closure he needed as to why things happened as they did. He needed to know if Chrollo truly felt sorry or had any form of remorse for his actions. It was something Kurapikahad to know for he was finding himself growing closer and closer to the man and if he was even to consider letting Chrollo into his life, much less bear his heart to the other, he would only be able to do so after knowing if Chrollo did harbor any regrets.
"Try to not worry so much. I know how much the eyes mean to you and we will get them. Just be patient. I did say I would see this through and I plan to stick to my word."
As the words slipped past Chrollo's lips, the announcement for them to move into the stateroom was aired and Kurapika mentally steeled himself. It wouldn't be much longer now.
As the last person entered the room designated for the night's social affair, Kurapika looked towards the exit they stood nearby and waited for the moment when everything would fall into shadow. Once everyone settled and a gentle, even flow of conversation rose into the air, the lights flickered out and everything descended into utter chaos.
Kurapika didn't even remember how they managed to fight their way out of the stateroom unscathed, but both he and Chrollo had nearly gotten trampled several times by people running in sheer panic as they pushed and shoved at anything nearby. A few times he almost tripped due to the fabric of the dress which had gotten caught beneath his heels as they tried to escape the bedlam.
They were now leaning against the far wall just outside the viewing room as they attempted to catch their breaths, Kurapika looking more worse for wear then Chrollo did. "The room where the eyes are is just down this hall. Let's get moving."
Acknowledging the older man, Kurapika gathered parts of his dress and hiked it up, which made it easier to maneuver despite the heels still being a setback. He was amazed that he hadn't managed to fall and break his neck yet.
Racing down the hall, he whipped into the smaller room right behind Chrollo, both of them using the cover of darkness to conceal their presence, though it made it harder for them to locate the eyes as a result. Frantically, Kurapika motioned between the cases, quickly and desperately searching their contents in order to find the right one, Chrollo right behind him inspecting the cases opposite of his position. For what felt like eternal minutes of probing and just when he was about to believe they had run out of time, Chrollo's voice called amid the stillness and it was then Kurapika realized his misgivings.
"Over here! I found them." Eagerly following the sound of the older man's voice, he found Chrollo standing just over a pedestal with a something clutched betwixt his hands and in a flurry, Kurapika was immediately at the other's side.
"How did you manage to get them out of there? I didn't think the cases slipped off easily." Kurapika questioned, completely bewildered by Chrollo's results.
A lopsided grin crawled over Chrollo's lips and it was then Kurapika knew he would more than likely give a presumptions answer. "Simple. I am a thief and am always prepared. Since I do not have access to my Nen, I just merely improvised and cut a hole in the glass big enough for the canister to slip through."
Kurapika shook his head. It was as he predicted, but nonetheless, they had accomplished their goal and now all they needed to do was get out before either of them were detected.
"In any regard, I highly recommend leaving now and save the celebratory fun for later."
He was about to offer Chrollo a retort when the abrupt sound of voices coming from the hallway jerked both of them alert - guards Kurapika thought, and realized they were now definitely out of time. Fingers suddenly twined with his own, not really perceiving just how intricately Chrollo was holding his hand and felt himself being pulled upright, those infernal heels clicking as he was then guided towards the door.
"We may need to go out through the back way since the front entrances are probably swarming with guards by now."
Shoving the canister as best as he could beneath the blazer he wore, Chrollo slipped prudently into the dimly lit hallway, the bluster of urgent and terrified voices resonated in the air as the hysteria continued from people struggling to escape.
Quietly, he guided Kurapika down the corridor, remembering the layout of the mansion from the blueprints he had received days earlier and where the closest exit was, which lead out to the gardens. It was their best chance of evading any guards along the way and avoid being detected. Chrollo also knew if they lingered too long, the power and security systems would be restored, virtually blowing their cover. So far, no one appeared to be in the immediate vicinity.
"This hallway leads towards a grand sitting room which has an exit that leads to the gardens at the back of the mansion. Since everyone was participating in the festivities, I assume no one should be in the back rooms at this time."
Kurapika raised a brow at Chrollo's affirmations, keeping pace without so much as missing a beat with the older man, "You assume? Didn't you have that one Spider of yours at least track the positioning of most of the people here to at least keep some sort of tabs on them?"
Of course Chrollo was conversant with Shalnark's abilities and skills when it came down to hacking and breaking codes, but even he wasn't able to give Chrollo a definitive answer when it came to the exact location of everyone's whereabouts in the mansion. Especially once he terminated the security cameras, "All he was able to give me was a rough estimation of how many guards Consta has. Which is about a dozen. From what I saw when we were all gathered in the main ballroom, it appeared most of them were present at the time. Considering that, it's a safe bet that the majority of them are still there attempting to quell a frightened crowd. Nothing yet makes me suspect that they realized the eyes have gone missing."
Risky. The entire thing wascompletely risky. Now they were going on the happenstance that they didn't run into anyone as they attempted to make their way out of a building which had become a tempestuous scene.
Silently, Kurapika held his breath as he continued to follow Chrollo, the corridor they were in looked endless and seemed to stretch into the realm of infinity, making him wonder if they would manage to escape in time. Finally they managed to come across a set of inlaid doors that held brass, gilded knobs. "Here. This should he the Grand Sitting Room. Going through here we can exit into the gardens and finally out of the area."
Shoving one of the doors aside, it opened up into a vast room with two massive bay doors just on the opposite side, a steady stream of moonlight flowing through the glass. Sliding just meters within the room, Chrollo observed the surrounding area for any signs of life and when none were found he looked back to the younger man behind him, "Coast is clear."
They began crossing the area towards the final barrier between them and freedom when shouts being called from behind them alerted Chrollo. He suspected someone had noticed the eyes were no longer in their case and they were now being pursued.
"Time to go!" Without warning, Chrollo shoved the canister into Kurapika's hands, giving the blond no time to react as he instantly scooped the younger man up into his arms and began hastening towards their exit, not wanting to waste any more time in their current location.
The sudden change in position to where he now was being cradled in Chrollo's arms caused Kurapika to jerk, his mind slowly releasing from the initial shock. Soon awareness struck and even though he was abashed by what was happening, the younger man just curled around the canister without thought, wanting nothing more then to protect the eyes at any cost.
"You better not drop me!" Was all he could muster as the sensation of cold air finally enveloped them, leaving Kurapika to Chrollo's mercy as they vanished into the night. The last thing he remembered was them trampling through a pretty garden filled with vibrant and lush flowers. Kurapika kept his eyes shut as the older man dashed madly in an attempt to put as much distance between them and the mansion they were leaving behind, everything from then becoming nothing but a blur.
Kurapika was sullen again, though this time, it wasn't for the usual reasons.
They had both made it back safely to their hotel room. The aristocratic sector was in a massive uproar, causing them to spend hours using side streets and alternate routes to make it there without being caught. Chrollo figured that by now people may be looking for them, but at most they would have a day or two before they would need to leave Bathas to ensure they were not found. But, that wasn't exactly why the Kurta was frustrated.
Once the eyes were secured within his luggage, Kurapika looked up from where he sat positioned on the bed, finally divesting himself of those bloody heels he started to loathe. But, he was just as eager to be rid of the dress as the fabric had become uncomfortable. "Next time you go to do something like that at least warn me!" He hissed as the pain in his feet made him more irritable. "I could have easily dropped the canister you know."
Chrollo, who had been standing at the end of the other bed had began removing his tie, though his eyes had remained firmly locked with Kurapika's startling blues, "What can I say? We were out of options and time. I had to think quickly and that ended up being the best option."
Snorting, the younger man focused on massaging his feet, they hurt like hell - one thing he would not forgive Chrollo for and regarded the other man simplistically, "You still could have warned me."
Before he knew it, Chrollo had ended up sitting at the edge of the bed across from his, the foot he had been tending to now in the older man's hands, "Here, let me help you." and placed his thumbs against the ball of Kurapika's heel.
The unexpected act caused Kurapika to flinch and he tried to jerk his foot away as a result, but Chrollo retained his grip, keeping him stationary. "Damnit Chrollo! I can do this on my own."
"No, you can't. Besides, I am the reason you are in your current predicament, so the least I can do is assist you in feeling better and alleviating your pain." Almost as if Kurapika hadn't moved, nor spoke, he continued on in his ministrations, fingers working at the tired, inflamed muscles of his feet, eyes watching the younger man's reactions, intently. Without reservation, he saw Kurapika relent as his back came to rest flat upon the bed, his body slightly trembling from the sensation.
"See? It's what you needed. Besides, I did promise you would get me all to yourself after we got the eyes."
Aside the fact that Kurapika failed to admit or just didn't care to admit that Chrollo's attentions were not unwarranted nor undesired, he still felt the same heat rise up his cheeks when he was close to the older man or being touched by him.
Something about Chrollo enlivened him and in spite of the fact that he apparently held such a powerful hold over Kurapika, just the way the older man paid special care, though with retained caution to his needs was enough to keep the blond from completely rejecting Chrollo's advancements. Kurapika knew the other's stance and the fact that ultimately, it was his heart the master thief was after. But just the way Chrollo made him feel kept Kurapika interested enough in seeing exactly how this would play out.
Even if there were still answers Kurapika sought in order to achieve an understanding regarding exactly what was germinating between them, for now, he felt contentment in just the little things they both shared in.
The feeling was quite nice and Kurapika found himself relaxing as Chrollo's hands worked attentively at his feet. Each sweep sent a tingling sensation up his spine and he gasped, his own body reacting without thought to the attention it was receiving.
It was like magic,bliss, just the very way his mind fell into the lull of the moment, even after Chrollo's lips were suddenly trailing tender, delicate kisses up the expanse of one leg, Kurapika couldn't find the will or desire to stop. Fingers became entwined within raven-locks, clutching almost tightly as he felt the hem of the dress being pushed up as a wash of cold over his skin foretold of just how much of his body Chrollo was willing to expose.
Kurapika started panting, the older man's breath was warm against his skin as those moist lips delivered kiss after sweltering kiss in a seamless trek as he continued up, while the palm of Chrollo's hand rubbed idly against Kurapika's creamy thigh.
It was almost too much. His mind was becoming a flurry of emotions, his nerves growing alight. Every part of him was slowly succumbing to a craving from within and it was gradually leading him down a path towards what would be considered his greatest sin. Yet, Kurapika was almost compelled to just let himself fall.
He wanted to give in. He wanted to let go. To dismiss every conviction along with his restraint, and just indulge in the repletion of the moment. Everything Chrollo was doing, the way the older man touched him, caressed him, how it made him feel, Kurapika couldn't help himself. Each kiss Chrollo delivered was like another chain tying him down, and Kurapika never wanted this to end.
Chrollo smirked, clearly aware of how his actions was affecting his precious blond, never ceasing his conveyance of loving kisses until he reached Kurapika's inner thigh and it was only then did he bite down. The abrupt action caused Kurapika to groan, his fingers winding tighter into his tresses, but it only instigated Chrollo further. The older man suckled harder on the delicate flesh until he was satisfied a mark would be left behind, then kissed the surrounding area tenderly a few more times before reluctantly pulling away.
As the absence of warmth finally hit Kurapika, he opened his eyes to see Chrollo hoovering right above him, the look in the older man's eyes only spoke of pure desire. "What are you-" Lips seized his own as his words were instantly cut off, drawing him down into a hungry, yet passionate kiss, Chrollo's tongue licking along Kurapika's lower lip, asking to be let in. Chrollo's own hands caressed reassuringly along his sides, carefully focusing on suppressing Kurapika's reluctance and replacing it with comfort, instead. The younger man gasped again, but this time, with the intent of giving that pervading appendage access to explore the inside of his warm mouth, Kurapika's own darting instantly to meet it.
Moments ticked on for hours, and hours ticked on for what felt like forever, their bodies locked within a fervid, heated dance, neither making the motion to stop the other until they only parted out of the necessity for air.
It was then Chrollo envisioned the most beautiful thing he had ever seen.
Drawing away, he let his eyes rove over the entirety of Kurapika's body as he laid there, flush and vulnerable, though the dress he still wore was now disheveled from their little cavort, "Truly exquisite," he breathed and Kurapika could only stare at the older man in wonderment, "and such a delicacy that should be savored, yet cherished."
The look in Kurapika's eyes was enough to grip Chrollo to his very core. But even then, he didn't want to push his boundaries too far until Kurapika was fully ready to give himself up. One hand reached down to stroke the blond's rosy hued cheek. "Why… Did you stop?" Was the response Kurapika gave once he was able to speak.
As much as Chrollo wanted to continue, he felt now wasn't quite the time. Especially after their earlier engagement and the fact they were probably being searched for. It was at this point they more than likely needed rest so they could prepare to leave Bathas as soon as possible. "Because we both need rest and I think I have given you enough of a treat for today. Besides if I recall correctly you wanted to get that dress off as soon as we got back?"
Grinning, Chrollo extended his hand to aid in Kurapika getting off the bed, which the younger man took without hesitation, "Right." Was the plain answer he gave, though Kurapika knew what Chrollo spoke of was undeniably right.
Turning towards the bathroom, Kurapika glanced over his shoulder, "Also, thank you helping me out earlier... Or I should say, for just helping me in general. You have my eternal gratitude." Of course, Kurapika wasn't keen on the idea of owing Chrollo anything. In fact the very notion made him question if it would possibly be held against him later. But it wasn't something he would concern himself with now and would focus on it if the time came. In truth, he really did appreciate - also enjoyed, everything Chrollo did for him.
With that in mind, Kurapika disappeared into the bathroom, leaving Chrollo to analyze his statement and for him to be alone with his own thoughts.
After Thoughts: This chapter was honesty not easy to construct considering the type of perspective I had to write for Kurapika for most of the chapter. Especially when he was interacting with Consta.
I felt it was also a fun challenge describing a lot of the scenery during their visit to Consta's manor, as well as writing the scenes for their grand heist and escape. It was also new for me to write Kurapika in a dress. :P
But expect things to keep on getting more interesting as it's only going to get better from here. :