Requiem of Fate

by Laviente

A novel tale of how incidentally, the ever devote and loyal Kurapika and the lawless, cold and criminal mastermind, Chrollo Lucifer come to realize just how intertwined and linked their lives really are.

37. A Spool of Thread

A/N: Hello, dear readers. Please excuse the long delay since my last update - I honestly didn't even realize so much time has passed between everything I have been dealing with lately, not to mention, while I did have fun with this chapter, it did give me some issues with writing it. However, everyone gets an extra special treat as even I don't know how it happened, but this one turned out longer than my more recent chapters. At first, I was going to break it down into two separate chapters, but the way it needed to be done would have caused an even more significant delay. So, enjoy the extra content. :)

As always, a big thank you to Sweets(s) Dreamer for her beta work. She catches mistakes that even I or my grammar program don't. Lol.

Summary: Chrollo and Kurapika finalize their preparations for their upcoming mission. What happens when their meeting doesn't go according to plan?

---

The breeze of the morning was comforting as it swept through Kurapika's golden locks. He leaned into its gentle caress as it dusted over his face, the warmth causing his eyes to close.

Kurapika had taken the time to enjoy the morning glow as the city of Cysteria, like Ti'alma with its Arabian likeness and structure made it easy to watch the sun as it rose in the eastern sky. It was breathtaking and awe-inspiring with its blues painted in accents of orange and yellow.

He took a sip from the mug in his hand and indulged in the coffee that was within. The substance tasted pretty good since it was Chrollo who prepared the brew.

Then again, Kurapika half expected his lover to mess with him by adding more sugar to it then he would have liked, but much to his surprise, Chrollo hadn't.

Again, he raised the mug to his pink lips and took another draw from its contents.

"Beautiful, isn't it?" A voice called from behind, and Kurapika turned to see that Chrollo had come to stand beside him. The way the light reflected off those stormy eyes made them appear as if there was ashen fire behind them. Kurapika was nearly stunned.

Quickly, he composed himself and resumed watching the horizon. "Yes, it is," Kurapika responded as he took another sip from his mug. "There really is nothing else quite like it."

There was a smile on Chrollo's lips. It seemed that Kurapika had an appreciation for things of splendor after all. "Of course, there isn't," he began while drinking from the cup in his own hand, "as there isn't anything more beautiful than what I see right before me." Once he finished his commentary, Chrollo let his grin expand even more.

Kurapika glanced at his lover from the corner of his eye, and for a moment, the Kurta was unimpressed. "Why is it you always say that?" He questioned.

This time, Chrollo faced the younger man entirely while not bothering to hide his cajolery. "Because it's true." He added before focusing on his own coffee. "I have no reason to say otherwise."

Silence followed the older man's words, and Kurapika utilized the time to process everything Chrollo said. He was well aware of how his lover felt and that Chrollo tended to laud him, although sometimes the man laid it on rather thick. A dusting of crimson accented the skin along his cheeks at the thought, and Kurapika kept his eyes trained forward.

"You know that flattery won't always get you everywhere," Kurapika began, and then he took a long draw from his cup, "but I appreciate your honesty." With that, he turned then leaned up against the railing, his gaze locking with Chrollo's own. He was really enjoying the breeze and atmosphere outside.

Surprise crawled over Chrollo's features by Kurapika's statement, and the older man tilted his head slightly in thought. "Oh?" He hummed and closed the gap between them. "Is that so?" Chrollo purred and reached over to card his fingers through Kurapika's soft hair. "The way I see it, you rather adore it when I compliment you."

For a split second, Kurapika was taken aback before he let his gaze fall away and onto the mug between his fingers. "Perhaps," he drawled before consuming the rest of the liquid inside it, "but don't allow it to go to your head," Kurapika quipped before allowing a smile to cross over his slender visage.

"Duly noted," Chrollo affirmed and reluctantly pulled his hand away. There was a nagging urge to kiss the Kurta's pouty lips, but he refrained for the time being. "That said, I assume you are ready to go over the details for our meeting with Corthoes?"

There was an intermediate pause as Kurapika carefully considered his lover's statement, but he already knew the answer. "Yes." Since Chrollo didn't linger on with any unnecessary fawning, it pleased Kurapika. Perhaps he desired the praise when his lover showed it, just now wasn't the time. "Sooner, the better in any case."

With a nod, he gestured for Kurapika to go back inside their hotel room and proceeded to follow once his lover stepped through the open glass door. Chrollo then made his way towards the small table that was off to the side of the room and sat the mug down once he finished drinking the rest of his coffee.

"One thing I learned recently about our target is this Corthoes fellow apparently expresses high discretion when it comes to his clientele, and the man doesn't choose to sell his merchandise to just anyone," Chrollo hesitated before reaching into the pocket of his pants to retrieve his phone. "From my understanding, he generally only provides for the most wealthy or the upper echelon of society. Which means we're going to need to go undercover again."

Tapping the screen caused it to light up instantly, and Chrollo took the intermission in his speech to check the messages on his phone. He noticed there was one waiting in his inbox.

Evidently, Machi and Nobunaga had made contact with the merchant and were addressing delegations for their impending meeting regarding the Scarlet Eyes. So far, everything was going according to plan, which helped to bolster Chrollo's confidence.

From Machi

Wednesday 9:05 am - We have located Corthoes el' Basa and are currently setting arrangements for a meeting.

Wednesday 9:09 am - Good. Make sure to instill the fact that it is a wealthy proprietor who is interested in his pair of Scarlet Eyes. I should be arriving with Kurapika later today.

From Machi

Wednesday 9:12 am - Alright Danchou, we will see to it.

After the screen went blank, Chrollo slipped it back into his pocket, and his attention returned to Kurapika. He knew that his lover would be intent on knowing his plans.

"So," Kurapika began as Chrollo predicted, "what's going on?"

The question didn't surprise him in the least, but Chrollo knew that every detail counted, and Kurapika would have his own part to play in their current mission. He was sure his lover wouldn't be too thrilled about it, but like he had to in the past, this was no different.

"Machi has informed me that she and Nobunaga met with Corthoes and have begun discussing negotiations. From what she stated is that he is looking forward to meeting with us." The moment Chrollo stopped, he observed Kurapika's reaction and how his lover took the current news.

"That's actually good to hear," Kurapika responded, then he sat down on the small couch in the room. "I assume he is already under the impression that we are of highborn status?" The question slipped past his lips before he was even aware of it, and Kurapika almost had an idea of exactly where their conversation was headed. The notion nearly made the color drain from his already pale skin.

There was a long pause between them, and the indication caused Kurapika to become less than enthusiastic. He sighed in exasperation.

Quickly, Chrollo picked up on the younger man's dismay, clearly aware of where his proposal would take them. Which to a fault, both amused and made him feel sorry for Kurapika, but it was a necessary step to help secure the eyes. He tried to handle the matter as delicately as possible since Chrollo remembered how Kurapika reacted the last time he was asked to play a similar role.

"That is what the man was led to believe," Chrollo responded slowly, "as he was told a wealthy businessman was the one who was seeking to procure his pair of eyes. However," Chrollo stopped and his grey eyes locked intently with Kurapika's own blues," he was also told the eyes were supposed to be a gift for the businessman's wife."

Immediately Kurapika was mystified, and his mouth practically hinged open. "W-w-wife?!" He stammered, and his face completely blanched. "You can't be serious?" For the life of him, Kurapika couldn't believe that Chrollo would actually come up with another hare-brained scheme using the misfortune of his feminine appearance. He cursed under his breath.

Naturally, witnessing his lover's reaction to the proposal of dressing up as a woman would have amused him, but this time, Chrollo was well aware of Kurapika's discomfort.

"I am." He responded slowly and crossed the room to where Kurapika was standing. "Since Corthoes is expecting a wealthy couple to meet with him, it makes sense that he will be looking for a man and woman." Once he was in front of Kurapika, Chrollo placed a hand on his lover's neck and began stroking his tender skin. "I know that you are not looking forward to dressing up as a female, but it's something that needs to be done as part of our mission to secure the eyes."

While the gentle caress of Chrollo's fingers was soothing, Kurapika couldn't suppress the discontent he felt. It was bad enough that he still suffered from the effects of wearing those infernal heels, but to think he was being asked to not only pose as a woman, but the idea of wearing a dress again severely appalled him. Kurapika felt himself shiver.

His lips twisted into a deep frown. "I cannot believe you're asking me to do that again," Kurapika groused, and his chest felt tight. "Especially after last time."

Chrollo's fingers gently made their way towards Kurapika's ear before gingerly taking the blond's earring between them. "I understand how you feel." He hummed while toying with the delicate silver chain. The way ruby glistened beneath the light thoroughly reminded him of Kurapika's vibrant, scarlet eyes. "It's an unfortunate circumstance, but I promise to make it easy for you. Just don't forget that I know you're a man regardless of what you wear."

In the back of his mind, it bothered Chrollo to see his lover distressed regardless of circumstance, but like other instances before, it was a necessary evil. On the other hand, he wasn't going to lie that he enjoyed seeing Kurapika in almost anything. Lace, feminine clothing, or otherwise. Even naked. There wasn't anything the younger man didn't look good in.

Divulging that, however, he knew Kurapika more than likely would have bored holes into his very soul. That or, at least, give him a good thrashing.

One thing Chrollo couldn't deny was just how much his lover hated being misgendered.

For some time, Kurapika considered the situation they faced, but he decided to remain stalwart. Aside from Chrollo's implication, it was still hard finding comfort within his lover's reassurance.

He was unable to keep his discontent from showing. "I do believe what you say," Kurapika began as he leaned automatically into Chrollo's touch, "but why does it seem like you still take satisfaction with putting me into embarrassing situations like this?"

Chrollo wasn't surprised by Kurapika's blunt question, but he slowly drew his hand towards the younger man's chin before letting his thumb sweep over those velvety lips. "I won't deny that I do enjoy seeing you dress up in tight or lacy clothing," he confessed, yet, there was a softness to his eyes as he spoke, "and that you look rather amazing in those types of wear, but it doesn't mean I will ever ask you to do so without reason or force you into it." Kurapika's skin was so silky, and as he kept stroking those plush mounds, each motion was made with the hopeful attempt to appease his trepidatious partner.

"How did I know you were going to say that?" Kurapika uttered against that probing digit, the sensation of it gradually quelling the dread within him. "You really are an incorrigible bastard, but I won't refute the things you say. Not once have you hurt me. You never tried." He closed his eyes then kissed the pad of Chrollo's thumb as he relished in the slight warmth his lover's hand produced.

To a fault, it was shocking to hear his own words, but Kurapika had long since realized that what he said was the truth. Perhaps there were times where Chrollo did things to infuriate him, but nothing the older man did was ever detrimental or harmful. It wasn't that his lover didn't behave impishly or playfully - far from it. Chrollo had a rather fond habit of teasing him more often than not, and sometimes to ridiculous extremes, but Kurapika couldn't recall a point where any of it was actually malicious.

Kurapika heaved a sigh. Instead of allowing certain aspects of their upcoming mission to distract him, he focused on the soothing way Chrollo's thumb rubbed across his rosy lips. The touch was inviting, and Kurapika closed his eyes while temporarily forgetting about his worries as he simply lived for the moment.

It was pleasing to see Kurapika relax, especially after the younger man had inadvertently gotten himself distressed over their future plans. His lover had a tendency to linger on insignificant details, so knowing that Kurapika was beginning to adapt to the situation as it came was relieving for Chrollo.

Eventually, he pulled his hand away - albeit reluctantly - and decided to lean down and kiss Kurapika instead. "As always, you know me so well, my angel." He responded before smiling. Of course, that earned him a scowl from his pretty blond, and Chrollo quickly ceased it with another kiss, but this time with more fervency. Kurapika relented immediately. "Which doesn't come as any surprise, but," Chrollo paused as he inched closer, their bodies almost touching, "I am just grateful that you trust me and know I would never do anything to hurt you."

That said, he wound his arms fully around Kurapika's slender waist and pulled the Kurta flush against him. The contact allowed him to feel his lover's every muscle and curve.

Almost instantly, Kurapika melded into the warm embrace, and his head came to rest within the juncture between his lover's neck and shoulder. Chrollo's unique scent filled his nostrils, and for a while, it was all he could think about. "Of course I trust you," Kurapika whispered and brushed his nose against Chrollo's slightly pale skin, "there is no reason for me not to."

Without hesitation, he slid his arms around Chrollo just as effortlessly and pulled himself even closer to his lover after hooking them firmly around his broad shoulders. What little gap that was between them was instantly closed, and Kurapika gasped from the contact their bodies made.

Their closeness drew an instant smirk to Chrollo's lips, and he hummed in contentment when Kurapika clutched him firmly. Warmth soon bloomed amongst them, and Chrollo loved how they fit perfectly against one another.

It was an unexpected result and one that Chrollo didn't immediately suspect. His lover was still the one who didn't take much initiative when it came to physical contact, but here Kurapika was, holding him so tight that no space between remained. Little by little, the younger man was starting to come around, and despite the irony of it, the longer they were together, the more open Kurapika became. From the look of it, he was slowly corrupting the once reserved and puritanical Kurta.

Even their very first time experiencing intimacy was a testament to that. Kurapika had been assertive then as well.

Chrollo's smirk broadened at the very idea.

"It really pleases me you continue to see it that way," he commented while reaching up to stroke through Kurapika's hair once more. "Despite the kind of person I am, you have placed so much value on my actions, knowing that, while I may be an immoral person, I would never hurt or betray you."

Following his statement, Chrollo dipped slightly to bury his nose amid Kurapika's golden crop. The scent of forest mixed with lilac permeated his mind as it reminded him of not only how special Kurapika was, but that he was loved by the very same man.

It made Chrollo glad that what he saw and felt wasn't a dream.

And it was like Kurapika read his mind. That lithe body trembled against him, but the way his lover nuzzled into his neck only made him grateful all the more.

"You damn ass," Kurapika uttered, and without warning, he tightened his arms around Chrollo as a result. "Of course, I know you won't. At first, I really thought you would, and was convinced you had some hidden agenda, but not once have you gone back on any of the vows you've made." He paused while giving time for his words to register, and in the meantime, Kurapika gave little reassuring kisses to the area of soft skin where his cheek pressed against. "That was proven after you began helping me retrieve the eyes of my clan."

He understood the reasoning behind a lot of Chrollo's behavior, even for why the older man had taken a penchant for teasing him. Yet, there wasn't a time he could remember Chrollo ever failing to keep any of the promises he was given. It was why he no longer saw the leader of the Genei Ryodan as an enemy but as a lover and, hopefully, his partner for life.

Such a confession nearly brought Chrollo to tears, and while his expression didn't outwardly show it, he was deeply moved by Kurapika's continued faith in him. At one time, he would have scoffed at the notion and sought ways to abuse what he would have considered a weakness, but now, it was the last thing he ever wanted to do.

Chrollo tightened his hold on Kurapika as he kept the younger man close while relishing in the surreality of the moment. "For you to say that tells me just how important I am to you." He still found it difficult to believe just how much Kurapika was opening up to him, but nevertheless, Chrollo saw it as another sign of their steadily growing emotional connection. "It means a lot."

Kurapika huffed in response before giving Chrollo's neck a gentle nip. "It's because of your unrelenting persistence that I feel this way, darling." He teased, and once again, the Kurta realized he was smirking in spite of himself. Chrollo had a way of magnetizing him while making it nearly impossible for him to remain angry with the man for long.

When he really got down to it, the way Chrollo acted towards him eliminated any possibility of his hate ever resurfacing.

That very aspect no longer scared Kurapika.

"Is that so?" Chrollo hummed and twitched from the bite Kurapika gave his skin. "In any regard," there was amusement in his voice as he smiled at Kurapika's snarky comment, "just know that I too, feel the same way and in the end, I will do whatever it takes to ensure that feeling between us remains the same," Chrollo concluded, and he kissed the side of Kurapika's lips to finalize his proclamation.

"And I will hold you to it," Kurapika added then expelled a breath.

Not once in his life had Kurapika ever dreamed of being in the current position he was in, but he could no longer lie about how special Chrollo really was. The man had given him every reason in the world to breathe. If it wasn't for him, Kurapika figured he may have been dead by now.

Reluctantly, Chrollo separated from him afterward, and despite the sound of protest he made, Kurapika's focus returned to the importance of their upcoming mission. The expression his lover gave him reminded him of it.

"That said," Chrollo resumed, his expression becoming more thoughtful, "we should find you an outfit to wear. I know it's not something you are looking forward to, but the sooner we get this done, the better."

Pessimism crossed over Kurapika's features, and he grimaced at the thought. "I know. Let's just get it over with."

"Alright." He responded and motioned towards the door. "There are a few shops I happened to see yesterday while driving around searching for a place to stay. We can check those out."

Nodding, Kurapika followed Chrollo before stopping abruptly and tilting his head inquisitively. "What about you?" He questioned.

Before his hand could reach for the knob, Chrollo turned to face Kurapika, and a grin split his face. "Ah, don't worry, love, I have already taken care of that."

The remark caused Kurapika to raise an eyebrow skeptically, but he refrained from commenting. Somehow, he knew that whatever Chrollo had chosen to wear, it was probably stolen, but he decided not to press the matter. Kurapika could only shake his head at the thought.

Instead, he joined Chrollo at his side. "I am ready then," Kurapika confirmed and followed his lover out of their hotel room.

---

The reflection in the mirror made him look more alien than he thought, and for the longest, Kurapika just stared at it while hoping it would morph into anything else.

Sighing heavily, he straightened up and smoothed out the wrinkles that were in the long, elegant dress he wore. It was made of satin and was adorned in green with unique patterning. The length of it draped over him as it nearly trailed along the floor, the hem spilling in ruffles around his ankles. Kurapika adjusted the collar for the third time as he tried getting it to sit comfortably on his shoulders without feeling like the thing was going to choke him.

It had a halter top and was something Chrollo adamantly insisted on to conceal his lack of breasts. Kurapika remembered his lover's expression and words clearly when they were examining it while shopping. The very idea made him grateful that he was a man.

Regardless of the shitty situation he had been goaded into, Kurapika didn't think he could ever handle being a woman. Not that he wanted to. Just the prospect alone of getting stuck wearing damn heels again made him groan inwardly.

Even the sound of them clicking on the tiles of the bathroom floor made Kurapika hate the things even more.

He gazed into the mirror one last time to ensure everything was orderly before applying the finishing touches. Unlike last time, Kurapika resented the thought of putting on actual lipstick again. It was an aspect he despised back when he wore the receptionist guise during his first encounter with Chrollo, but now he loathed it even more.

Red accented his skin as it shone conspicuously on his face, and Kurapika thought of just how much fate must have really hated him. Like the rest of the makeup he wore - mascara, blush, eyeshadow - it was no better than getting stuck wearing the infernal stuff coating his lips.

Kurapika had to keep reminding himself it was necessary and that he was only doing it for the sake of his clan. When it was all over, he silently vowed to burn all of it. Including the dress.

He prayed that it was the very last time he would have to go through something this miserable.

After running a brush through his hair - which he swore to get cut once their mission was over - Kurapika's eyes swept over his figure one last time before exiting the bathroom, albeit with some difficulty.

Immediately his eyes landed on Chrollo, who was sitting quietly in the lone plush chair within the main room. The older man rose when he entered, and unconsciously, Kurapika covered himself as he suddenly felt exposed. Heat crept up along his neck and cheeks, which made the Kurta avert his eyes as his lover came closer.

"Beautiful," Chrollo uttered, and Kurapika felt his chin being lifted up. The color must have deepened on his skin as the look in Chrollo's eyes only added to the awkwardness he felt.

A frown twisted his delicately painted lips. "I hate it," Kurapika complained, and he tried to turn away from Chrollo's prying expression. "It's no better than last time and just as bad as the instance where I ended up wearing that bloody receptionist disguise."

Chrollo stopped as he observed Kurapika's mood, and although he was aware of the younger man's discomfort, he couldn't help just how striking his lover was. There was no lying about how good it looked on Kurapika, and aside from the fact it was feminine clothing, Chrollo found him just as attractive.

Still, he decided to handle the situation tactfully. "I know," Chrollo responded calmly and let his thumb trace the outline of Kurapika's ruby-hued lips, "but I can't help how exquisite you look." Pausing, Chrollo lifted Kurapika's head up even more so that blue eyes locked with his own stormy greys. "Don't get me wrong, babe. I am not dismissing how you feel, just acknowledging that you are pulling it off quite well despite the circumstances."

For a moment, silence had ensued between them while Kurapika thought about everything that was said. He wasn't about to refute Chrollo's - even if they were overly theatrical - compliments to assuage his own discomfort, but Kurapika wasn't about to change his initial opinion either.

"I am not surprised by your answer," Kurapika stated, and he carefully removed Chrollo's hand from his chin. "Since you've made your preferences known in the past. While I won't criticize you as I do enjoy some of your more... unusual interests; if you make this too demeaning, I may just change my mind."

Now it was Chrollo's turn to be taken aback, and the older man eyed his lover questioningly. "You wouldn't." He balked before straightening himself. Chrollo was sure he saw a flash of triumph in Kurapika's eyes at his exasperation. "Even your prior agreement to try on lingerie for me?"

Touché. So his lover did have a weakness. Kurapika grinned once again in spite of himself. "I would." He purred at Chrollo's - possibly feigned - demeanor as the reaction was too priceless to ignore. "You misunderstand me if you think I am not above rescinding that arrangement should you get too overzealous."

Evil, just simply evil. Kurapika found himself pleased by the notion.

"You wound me, Kurapika," Chrollo added in response to his lover's explicit declaration, and for once, the Spider leader humbled himself, "but I can assure you that I will not do anything to incite your vexation any further. You know how I feel, but I do not wish to make the situation harder on you."

The response Chrollo gave was practically the last thing Kurapika thought he would ever hear. It caught him nearly off guard as he half expected his lover to keep on bantering, but his grin expanded when the older man actually relented.

"Good," Kurapika vocalized, but this time, he reached up to touch the side of Chrollo's face. The skin there was warm and oh so soft. "Because I was beginning to think you wouldn't ever give up." When the last words exited his mouth, Kurapika hesitated as the weight of what he said caused him to have an unexpected epiphany. There was definitely truth behind his statement.

Are you not exactly the same way?

The color of Kurapika's skin almost bled away as he heard one of those ever-present voices suddenly call out to him. It made the Kurta stall in his spiel about lessons.

Like Chrollo, Kurapika, too, had his own goals, which he was determinant to achieve. The realization was a thorough reminder of how akin to his lover he really was. Even if Kurapika didn't want to admit it.

Regardless of his attempts to conceal the shift in his emotions, the expression Kurapika saw cross over Chrollo's visage indicated that the older man already knew. He groaned inwardly, practically ready for more of his lover's taunting as a result.

Amused by Kurapika's reaction, Chrollo smirked as he leaned into the younger man's palm. The warmth he felt, and the tenderness of the touch was sedating. "You know I always love a good challenge," he muttered while rubbing his cheek against Kurapika's velvety skin, "and that I cannot resist one when it's presented to me, but," Chrollo pulled away long enough to let his gaze fall on his lover, "for now, I will hold off until circumstances are different."

For the second time, Kurapika was taken aback by Chrollo's actions, but listening to those sincere words made him feel more assured about the situation. Not once did he fully suspect Chrollo's ability to control himself when necessary, but hearing it outright was enough to bolster the confidence he had in his lover.

Sometimes, Kurapika wished moments like this would never have to end.

"I do believe you," he responded after a brief interlude, then beamed at Chrollo, "as there was never any doubt in me. However," Kurapika whispered before pulling Chrollo down so close their lips just barely touched, "I don't mind exploring this further, but when the time is right."

For one as audacious and formidable as the leader of the Genei Ryodan, the man really was docile when it came to respecting the boundaries he set. It made Kurapika believe that Chrollo was a man of stature and regard. Underneath the rough exterior was an actual soul.

There was more to Chrollo than just some callous, murderous criminal. Kurapika continuously reminded himself it was another quality he loved about the older man, and it made him even more comfortable about their relationship and his decision to be a part of the Spider.

Once they recollected all the eyes, he would then let the Spider be inked onto his skin.

"I understand," Chrollo added in comply and dipped forward to capture Kurapika's mouth in a tender kiss. Then, he pulled away to straighten fully. "That said, we should probably get moving. It's best to not be late for our meeting with Corthoes."

Heat once again rose over Kurapika's face as he attempted to conceal it in vain, but the fact his lips still tingled from the kiss they just shared made him give up on trying. It was rather pointless to get flustered each time they shared a romantic moment. Kurapika had long since acknowledged how Chrollo made him feel and that he enjoyed it when they were close. Now was no different.

"Alright," Kurapika responded before moving off to gather what remaining things he needed for their upcoming encounter. After that, he joined Chrollo at his side. "I'm ready." Kurapika finalized as he ran his hands over the surface of the dress one last time to ensure not a wrinkle remained.

Nodding, he mirrored Kurapika's example and adjusted the tie around his neck before tugging on the rim of his blazer. Chrollo then proffered his arm for the younger man to take. "Shall we go then?" He questioned with a grin. Chrollo was sure Kurapika would scowl at the gesture.

However, he was pleasantly surprised when his lover slid a hand around his arm instead. He didn't expect Kurapika to accept it so willingly, but to see him become less resistant to things he wasn't used to was an indication of improvement. The younger man was loosening up a bit more every day. It gave Chrollo hope.

Without further delay, they both silently walked out the door.

---

Cysteria was a vast metropolis with its towering buildings, impressive statues and streets paved in brick, but the number of people who traversed through the city was minimal compared to other places. While its structure, design, and theme were parallel to Ti'alma, the rest - especially its economy - were more centralized like Bathas and Nappon, but quieter like Sorbia. Such was present in the way Cysteria's citizens kept to themselves, eyes averted, locked elsewhere, or remained forward. It was strange, Kurapika thought to himself, as everyone moved with mechanical fluidity.

That was until others took notice of them.

The way people avoided those around them while sweeping through the streets gave the place a strange air until he passed through beside Chrollo. The attention they received was enough to make Kurapika feel oddly extrinsic and nervous. He tightened his grip on Chrollo's arm but kept his eyes locked forward while they moved.

Kurapika found it hard to disregard the hushed whispers and stares, especially with how evident the attention was. He even noticed some of the gawkers had pointed fingers in their direction while harboring smiles or looks of curiosity. A few of the women even uttered comments to each other at how he was pretty and lucky enough to have a man as handsome and luscious as Chrollo.

All the ridiculous fascination made Kurapika despise not only the fact that he was dressed as a woman but also how some of the ladies milling along the street seemed to be jealous of him.

He sighed in exasperation.

"Just ignore them," Chrollo whispered, and Kurapika cast a side-long glance towards him, "they're only gossiping because it's not common for them to see wealthy people walking the streets in this part of the city."

So the elite was rarely seen among the more common folk in Cysteria? Kurapika wasn't entirely shocked by the notion. Regardless that it became more of a spectacle where they currently were, people of high stature or fame rarely mingled with those who were nondescript.

But then again, wasn't it the same for Chrollo and the Genei Ryodan?

"More like infamy." Kurapika reminded himself.

Still. Even if Spiders were a notorious bunch with a negative reputation, they did seldom mingle with the public either, unless it was with other people from Meteor City. Which turned out to be another aspect about them that didn't surprise Kurapika either. One thing which set the Genei Ryodan apart from other baseless criminals was the fact they at least cared for the citizens of their homeland even if they harbored no empathy for the rest of the world. It was at least something.

"I suppose you're right." Kurapika conceded and focused on their objective while blotting out the barrage of voices that echoed around them. "They're only interested in prattling on about the next big story it seems," Kurapika added tersely. In reality, those busybodies were not worth his or Chrollo's time.

"Agreed. People like that are only seeking to spread rumors and lies. It's for the best to not feed into their prevarications."

Kurapika still hated that he was clad in a damn dress; he was sure it was a big reason for all the unwanted attention.

"How much further until the meeting point?" He questioned while concentrating on the road ahead. The sooner they got out of the limelight, the better. Kurapika was eager to remove himself from the public eye.

Being a focal point for propaganda was something that he absolutely hated.

There was a faint grin on Chrollo's lips, but he didn't abrade Kurapika's discomfort. "Not much further," he responded, voice remaining calm, "it's in the Abaria Quarter, which is in a more upscale part of the city."

Chrollo could feel the tension in Kurapika's fingers around his forearm as his lover's anxiety was more prominent than before. Regardless of his own stance on the situation, there was no disregarding just how miserable Kurapika must have felt.

He was just grateful there weren't other men ogling his partner. Chrollo would have completely lost it then.

"Great," Kurapika deadpanned, and he glimpsed down at the Kurta, "because I would like to get out of here as soon as we can."

It didn't astonish him for Kurapika to react the way he did, all considering. At the current, they were garnering recognition neither of them needed.

Eventually, the impoverished part of the city bled into a place where the buildings were more lavish and intact. The people who swept by wore clothes that were of various colors, types, designs, intricacy, and value. Shops in great abundance lined the streets and were inlaid with brick as opposed to the dirt ones in the insolvent section, while lamp posts carved heavily in design ran along the smooth, paved walkways. Mingled among the vast motif of the city were grand marble statues depicted in different scenes; the elaboration of them nothing short of breathtaking.

The ancient metropolis really was something of immense spectacular.

They continued walking, and much to Kurapika's relief, not many of the people who moved past really paid them any mind. There were a few glances directed their way, but most didn't even seem to notice them. It helped Kurapika breathe easily, at least.

After some time, Chrollo came to a stop before a large, open storefront that bore the reputation for housing a more significant inventory of valuables to sell. There was a sign twitching in the wind labeled 'Great Seas Trade' in elegant handwriting.

"This is the place where we are supposed to meet Corthoes," Chrollo spoke as he observed the exterior with peaked interest. From what he was able to ascertain from the view outside, it gave him an idea of the enormous amount of treasures this merchant must have acquired. The concept alone grasped his attention profoundly.

Kurapika stepped up beside him, though he appeared analytical as he examined the building thoroughly. "This place? Are you sure?" His lover really was cute when he came off as skeptical.

"Naturally," Chrollo commented, a grin forming over his lips. "This is the location Machi and Nobunaga gave me after making contact with our target. So, you have nothing to worry about, angel."

He grunted but nodded in concession. There was an underlying vein of ambivalence at the mention of Chrollo's source of information, and Kurapika couldn't help the slight wariness he felt. It wasn't that he didn't trust the skills of the Spiders, quite to the contrary, but the idea that one of those informants was Nobunaga made him concerned. That man was the one who had flagrantly opposed their relationship and held a grudge against him for what happened to Uvogin. Kurapika didn't put it past the man to sabotage their mission just to toss a wrench into their plans. Well, his plans.

Despite his misgivings, Kurapika followed Chrollo, who stepped immediately inside the merchant's shop.

Almost instantly, he was overwhelmed by the amount of stock that was lined all along the walls within. There was a fair amount of rare items to effects that looked valuable or ancient artifacts mingled in with things that were everyday or commonplace. Kurapika was astonished by what he saw all considering - it wasn't every day he saw such an impressive collection all in one place. Aside from the entire scenario feeling strangely erroneous, Kurapika was at least convinced the person they were visiting was a merchant.

Generally, his gut instincts were never wrong, but the Kurta suppressed it for the time being. His attention remained on the objects around them as he and Chrollo slipped further into the rather enormous shop.

Chrollo's movements were calculated, although he was surrounded by so many tantalizing things. The older man ventured to maintain an unreadable facade, but there was no masking the glint that shone in his eyes. Kurapika shook his head in disbelief - his lover was a thief through and through. He wouldn't even be surprised if Chrollo was contemplating on looting what he could before they departed.

Some things never change.

"But he is who he is. It's just in his nature, and is part of learning acceptance."

A voice reasoned, and Kurapika abruptly gave pause as the reality of the comment struck him and fast. It was like a ton of bricks had come down upon his head. There was so much truth to what was said that Kurapika could not dispute it. Kurapika had known long ago exactly who Chrollo was and, even then, had made the decision to be with the man. Accepting Chrollo no matter the circumstance was what love was all about.

Expelling a breath, he pushed the thought aside and merely smiled.

The older man turned in his direction, though Chrollo's eyes retained focus on the empty store save for them and the items within. It was hard to shake the odd feeling he had about with the peculiar silence in the room. Shouldn't have someone greeted them by now? Didn't anyone hear them enter? How strange…

"Maybe no one's here?" Kurapika inquired, and as the words left his mouth, the sound of shuffling ceased his thoughts entirely.

Several figures emerged from the shadows towards the back, and Kurapika immediately tensed. "I presume you are Chrollo Lucifer?" A male voice questioned, and moments later, a heavyset man adored in lavish clothing wearing a myriad of jewelry stepped forward. Two other figures stepped out behind him. Both must have been bodyguards judging from their appearances.

Without hesitation, Chrollo bowed before answering. "Yes, that would be me." He said formally. "It's safe to say you are the man we are supposed to be meeting with?" Chrollo furthered then straightened himself.

He took a few steps forward while observing the tall man who stood before him, and a grin made its way over his chubby face. "Of course!" The fat man chirped enthusiastically before mirroring Chrollo's prior movement and bowed as well. "I am Corthoes el' Basa. Your associates informed me of your impending arrival." After he managed to erect himself, Corthoes's eyes landed on Kurapika. "And who is this lovely young companion of yours?" He inquired.

Kurapika bristled at the man's blunt question, but the sensation of Chrollo's hand brushing against his side quelled the tempest within. "Ah, yes, this is my wife, Kurapika Lucifer."

There was a flash of bewilderment on Kurapika's face at the comment, and he could have sworn that even the heat left his skin. It was bad enough being identified as a woman, but then Chrollo went so far as to associate his last name with the introduction. Not that Kurapika didn't like the way it sounded with his own name, but the blatant usage of it in front of Corthoes nettled him. "Really, Chrollo," Kurapika uttered but grunted and hissed beneath his breath when Chrollo elbowed him in the arm. He looked positively exasperated.

"We have to maintain our facade, remember? It's just a pretense," Chrollo whispered while keeping his eyes locked on Corthoes in case the man showed any signs of realizing their deception. It perplexed him with just how agitated Kurapika got when being addressed as a female, specifically while undercover, but for the younger man to go ballistic now would undermine their entire mission. Chrollo wrapped an arm around his lover to calm the rage that was simmering inside him.

Reluctantly, he abdicated without further resistance, though Kurapika didn't repress the huff that exited his lips as a result.

Though, in the next moment, the blond turned into a practical thunderhead when the fat man took hold of his hand while giving him a mischievous look. "It's a pleasure to make your acquaintance. Your radiance makes this old man smile," Corthoes purred, then kissed the back of it, and Kurapika thought he was going to explode. He couldn't believe the man actually kissed his hand! It left him positively aghast!

"No, the pleasure is all mine," Kurapika choked, and he tossed a rather frosty glare Chrollo's way. However, the expression on his lover's visage was the polar opposite of what he expected, and the older man appeared tense. At least Chrollo didn't seem too thrilled with how familiar Chorthoes was acting towards him. The aspect made him less agitated with the entire situation.

Perhaps his lover's possessiveness had its advantages. If he had to be perfectly honest, Kurapika knew he was no better when it came down to the attention Chrollo received at times, primarily from women. There were several instances in the past where ladies gave the older man looks of desire or tried to flirt with him, and Kurapika would find himself becoming positively furious over it.

Witnessing Chrollo become vexed by this fat man's ridiculous attempts at seduction towards him made Kurapika smile, even if he didn't want to show it.

The way that grin spread over Corthoes's pudgy mouth made Kurapika cringe as it came off more predatory than not. They just needed to get the negotiations for the eyes over with quickly so he and Chrollo could leave. Kurapika wanted to get as far away from that creepy, perverted man as possible. Simply being around him was making Kurapika excessively uncomfortable.

Again, Corthoes took hold of Kurapika's hand and made a gesture for them to follow. "Would you both please follow me so we can move to a more private location to talk?"

It took everything Kurapika had to not pull back in utter aversion as touching Corthoes alone left him disgusted. The man's skin alone had an oily feel to it, and Kurapika hated the way it felt against his own. He had to remind himself to breathe and stay calm. Though, judging from how tense Chrollo had become, he wasn't so sure the same could be said for his lover.

His suspicions were proven correct when Chrollo abruptly stepped forward to disrupt Corthoes's advances. He cleared his throat before speaking. "Ahem, yes, I think that would be an excellent idea. There is definitely much for us to discuss," Chrollo commented, though his demeanor became portentous by the merchant's recent behavior. The man must have been receptive to his current attitude as Corthoes retracted his hand from Kurapika's and offered a weak smile as a result.

"I have to agree. Well, then, please follow me." He laughed nervously and turned to head further into the back of his store. The two bodyguards flanking him followed from behind, their presence as imposing as ever. Both of them appeared menacing enough, but since they were also Nen users made matters even worse. Kurapika was sure Chrollo had reached the same conclusion.

Corthoes led them towards a small, enclosed room with a finely carved table in the middle, and after briefly surveying the area, Kurapika's eyes finally landed on a singular object that sat directly in the center. Upon closer examination, his breath hitched as he recognized the all too familiar canister with its crimson eyeballs floating amid the fluid within. Kurapika, at that point, had to steady himself.

Chrollo immediately sensed the slight falter in Kurapika's composure, and he indistinctly slid his hand behind the younger man's back to help keep him calm. The last thing either of them needed was for one of them to lose their cool. He was sure Kurapika was silently grateful to be wearing his contacts to keep his scarlet eyes from showing.

"Will you both kindly take a seat?" Corthoes calmly asked while gesturing for them to sit. Kurapika slowly pulled one of the intricately carved oak chairs out from beneath the table while Chrollo did the same, but with less hesitation. Once they were both situated, the fat man directed his attention towards them. "So," he began after sitting down in a chair at the opposite end while his two bodyguards stood behind him, "we are to discuss a possible transaction for the pair of Scarlet Eyes I possess?"

There was a momentary pause as Chrollo leaned in close to Kurapika. "Let me do the talking." He whispered before his eyes locked with Corthoes's. "Yes. My wife and I have taken a recent interest in the beauty and value of the Scarlet Eyes, especially after learning about their rarity and origins. Once we heard that a local merchant had come into possession of a pair, we decided to make contact. I am highly interested in purchasing the one you have."

He leaned back in his chair while carefully observing Corthoes's reaction, and the man's eyes nearly gleamed with absolute greed. There was a soft tinkling sound as he wrung his hands in practical anticipation.

"Ah, so it seems my reputation precedes me." The fat man began as he leaned across the table to examine Chrollo more closely. "The fact you learned of my recent acquisitions so soon after receiving them is proof of that." He stopped then reached over to place one of his sausage-like hands on the top of the canister before him. "Not only are the Scarlet Eyes said to be a rare beauty, but to find a pair as bright as these is nearly impossible. I was lucky to get my hands on this one." He boasted while gazing at Chrollo with an expression that could have been described as predatory. "With that in mind, I assume you already know this will be quite expensive?" Corthoes was practically brimming with excitement as he grinned toothly at them.

Listening to him ramble was quite the challenge and Chrollo could hear the pretentious notes lacing his voice. It was more than evident that Corthoes was a prideful man who was excessively indulgent and presented himself as a rather loud braggart. Chrollo could see Kurapika out of his peripheral vision and it didn't shock him that his lover was battling with retaining his composure.

Hopefully, negotiations with Corthoes would pan over much easier than it did with the man's personality.

Chrollo folded his hands in front of him. "Oh, we are well aware of that believe me." He commented factually, and a smile crossed his lips. "Money is definitely no object for us. We are well prepared to pay whatever amount you want for the eyes."

The gleam which shone in the fat man's eyes or the way his toothy smile expanded so far it made Corthoes look like a prowling shark gave Chrollo indication that his concession had piqued the man's interest. It wasn't surprising, and it thoroughly reminded Chrollo of how many people shared his kind of mentality. He had to give Corthoes credit - the man was indeed a snake.

"That's good to hear." He responded to Chrollo's proposal, and for a split second, his lubricious gaze landed on Kurapika. The way the blond shifted awkwardly beneath his prying eyes amused him even more. "Shall we discuss the terms, then?" He questioned eagerly.

Not only was he intrigued by their determination, but there was something about the woman who sat beside Chrollo that interested him. Something about her was… Different. He just couldn't put his finger on it.

Yet.

How quickly Corthoes was to push in securing their transaction didn't escape Chrollo's notice and he tilted his head quizzically. "I don't see why not," he began while keeping his tone even, "since I am quite confident both parties are eager to make a deal. What are your conditions for the eyes?"

If Corthoes was going to try and be coy with the sale he was endeavoring to make, Chrollo decided to counter him by slowly pushing the man into a corner. He could tell the man planned to take every possible advantage of the situation, and Chrollo wasn't about to let the fat man have his way.

One thing Corthoes failed to understand - or he was just too blind to realize - was the fact Chrollo was a thief and that he quickly recognized lowly tactics to exploit someone. However, he was entertained by the man's insistence and wanted to let the situation play out.

"I see." The fat man began, and this time, he looked thoughtful while taking the time to think over the details for their potential sale. "Well, first off, considering the rarity of the Scarlet Eyes and seeing how this particular pair has retained a brighter shade than most, I would have to say that I won't accept anything lower than ten million Jenny."

Right away Kurapika's demeanor changed and infuriation replaced his calm appearance. Heat swelled beneath his skin and he was sure his eyes had momentarily flashed a deep scarlet. Silently, Kurapika was glad he has taken the initiative to wear his contacts. "You cannot be serious?!" He practically yelled and almost rose from his seat. "That's an exorbitant amount of money!"

Such an abrupt display caused both Chrollo and Corthoes to face Kurapika. While the leader of the Spiders merely raised an eyebrow and his behavior, the merchant, however, found the blond's brazen interjection rather intriguing. Again, Corthoes realized something was odd about his new customers - specifically Kurapika.

Probing a little further, he surmised, may yield much-wanted answers.

"Kurapika," Chrollo called softly, and he casually placed a hand on the younger man's shoulder in an attempt to calm his impetuous lover. "Remember what I said-"

The sound of coughing made Chrollo stop talking mid-sentence.

"I don't blame your wife for being upset," Corthoes interjected and leaned against the back of his chair, "as it is indeed a lot of money. But," this time, the fat man turned his full attention onto Kurapika, and he smiled deviously, "didn't you state that cost would not be a concern for you both? If I dare say, judging by your current status, the price of the Scarlet Eyes should be easy enough for you to afford."

Chrollo promptly raised his hand to intervene in on Corthoes's incessant prattle. "Yes, I did mention that," he articulated while studying the fat man's actions, "as money certainly is not a problem for us." Following his explanation, Chrollo briefly peered at his lover, a thin smile on his lips. "Please forgive my wife as I'm confident she merely forgot how much resources we actually have at our disposal."

Confusion etched Kurapika's visage almost immediately, and he practically staggered in his seat. "You can't be serious about that-" His lover's hand came up once again and ceased his tirade before it could even begin. Kurapika reclined back in his chair with an audible huff.

"I am," Chrollo began and locked eyes with the younger man, "as this is just as important to me as it is to you, or have you forgotten that?" He questioned, but more sternly than before.

"But, Chrollo…" Kurapika protested, and for a second time, he was brought to silence.

"Did you not tell me before that you wished to acquire the eyes by whatever means possible? I believe this would classify as such an instance."

With a sigh, Kurapika capitulated and crossed his arms in agitation. He wasn't about to contest what Chrollo said as he was completely aware that his lover was right. Getting shot down like that pissed him off, but continuing to argue he knew was not an option.

It would also prove to be counterproductive.

He had to admit one thing - it was the best way to obtain the eyes despite that he had agreed to steal them as a worst-case scenario. Kurapika groaned.

"You're right." He conceded then turned away. The last thing Kurapika wanted to do was face Chrollo knowing how wrong he was. "Obtaining the eyes is surely more important than any price tag." Damn the bastard for always making him seem foolish.

But it's the truth, isn't it?

Kurapika sighed again as the voices whispered into his mind. Their presence served as a reminder of his wavering conscious, and at times he was grateful for their existence. Their familiarity never let him forget that.

The sensation of warmth blooming along his thigh jarred his awareness, and Kurapika turned hesitantly towards his partner once more. "Do not stress, love," Chrollo murmured and grinned even more, but kept the aspect of it as a form of comfort rather than meant to insult, "this is all in favor of ascertaining our goal, and I don't doubt that everything will pan out."

Digesting everything Chrollo said took time, but it was just another instance of his lover's accuracy. Chrollo clearly knew what he was doing and his participation would only cause problems for them. It would be unwise to raise their trader's suspicions. If they haven't already.

"Alright," Kurapika shifted in his seat and while he didn't look Chrollo directly in the eye, he still acknowledged the older man, "I will let you handle this even though I'm not fond of the idea. Let's just secure this deal so we can get the hell out of here." He reached up and adjusted the top of the dress irritably then cursed when the collar almost came completely unfastened from his neck. Kurapika hastily fixed it before it managed to fall away enough to reveal his bare chest.

There was a brief stillness as Chrollo assessed the situation, but he remained calm. Kurapika was a hothead and tended to get ruffled quickly, as it was evident by his lover's reaction to his proposal. But to a fault, he also understood Kurapika's point of view. The younger man must have realized as well that Corthoes was attempting to manipulate them.

His urgency was proof of that.

Chrollo nodded without saying anything further, and to prevent any possible dilemmas, he figured that speeding up negotiations was best. With Kurapika's temperament, the chance of him losing his composure was very likely.

During the entire exchange, Corthoes had remained silent as he was enthralled by the conversation. The woman continued to be overly anxious and eager to close the deal while the dark-eyed man took his time with bartering.

What made him even more curious was the image he saw right before the woman managed to reattach her dress during an unfortunate mishap. He managed to get a quick glimpse of her chest, and he could have sworn there wasn't any sign of breasts.

Either she was woefully flat-chested, or Kurapika was actually a man.

That is when his initial suspicion became more apparent than not. He already found his clientele beyond eccentric and strange - though most people he dealt with weren't exactly ordinary anyway - these two were something else altogether.

Corthoes had already begun to wonder if they were telling him the whole truth as there were aspects of the situation that wasn't quite right. Like the fact that Chrollo Lucifer had sent a proxy to establish a meeting rather than do it himself.

Not that receiving envoys from clients was entirely unheard of, but the people he received from Chrollo were not the typical kind he was used to encountering.

Still, he wasn't ready to call it off just yet. There was a reason why someone like Chrollo and Kurapika wanted the eyes. It just wasn't the same one he was given.

He folded his hands in front of him. "I do understand that you feel we must reach an agreement and without wasting too much time, but there is no need for us to be hasty," Corthoes spoke once things had settled between the two of them. "With that in mind, I am fairly confident we can reach an acceptable agreement. If you think the price is too steep, we can discuss other forms of payment."

And like that, Corthoes smirked boldly. His bodyguards shuffled warily behind him, and even that seemed to highlight his amusement. It was unmistakable there was desperation in his client's motives; they were prepared to do whatever it took to get his pair of Scarlet Eyes. That aspect alone told him they weren't just mere wealthy people seeking out to collect another rare artifact.

They wanted it for more than that.

Corthoes planned to corner them if it got him the information he wanted.

"What?!" Someone blurted out, and he turned as Kurapika rose precipitously from her - or his - chair. "First, you demand an ungodly amount of Jenny for the eyes, then you want to show pity by roping us into paying some other kind of price?" Kurapika hissed and slammed a fist on the table. "Why do I get the impression that you are trying to give us the go-around with this?"

Bingo. Right where he wanted them. Slowly they were losing confidence, or at least the blond was. Regardless if Chrollo Lucifer would be harder to crack, instilling doubt was one method of controlling someone. If everything went as planned, he would find out exactly who they were. Maybe there was more to be had than had initially thought.

The very idea made Corthoes brim with excitement.

"Kurapika," Chrollo interjected again, but this time to quiet his lover. His voice was stern. "You need to calm down and look at the situation from a different perspective. Getting angry will only make matters far worse. Am I correct in saying you understand at least that much?"

There was a moment of silence as Kurapika processed his lover's statement, but it didn't allay the frustration he was experiencing. He knew that Corthoes was trying to jockey them, and Chrollo continuing to disregard that aspect pissed him off. Whatever was going through his mind was something Kurapika couldn't figure out, but he wasn't about to allow it to drag out.

He clenched his fists even tighter. "No," Kurapika responded firmly, his expression hardening. "I will not. Showing my anger or how it affects the situation is irrelevant to the fact this bastard has been making every effort to manipulate us. I honestly thought you would have picked up on that by now." He concluded and straightened his back, a frown accenting his features.

Well, that stung. To hear Kurapika's accusation caused him to feign a look of hurt. He really didn't think his lover thought so little of him.

"Oh, you have it wrong, love," Chrollo enforced, and a grin spread over his face. "I have been well aware of his attempts to influence the situation for his own benefit. It's something I figured out very early on." He broke eye contact with Kurapika to let his gaze land on Corthoes who expressed being startled. It was just as well. Getting the man rattled was exactly what Chrollo wanted.

He figured that Corthoes wasn't aware of what was happening. Most people were always too presumptuous to realize when they were being played, or when their attempts to deceive others have long since failed. Chrollo always prided himself in figuring these points out as those he encountered were generally simple-minded.

Toying with people was always fun - particularly in circumstances such as this.

"Goddamnit, Chrollo," Kurapika blustered, his arms flailing wildly beside him, "you could have at least informed me." The blond huffed after that, his posture indicating he was beyond upset. Even if Chrollo had a good reason for keeping that knowledge secret from him, the man could have at least given him some indication of it.

Chrollo merely shrugged in nonchalance. "Trust me when I say it was best I didn't say anything before now. It increased our chances of keeping our host from catching on too soon. I let him be convinced that we were about to do anything he wanted. Even dance if it came to that." Once again, Chrollo's gaze fixed on the fat man whose skin had paled to the point of looking sick.

It made Corthoes back up. There was an underlying vein of coldness in those dark eyes that practically shook him to the very core. Whatever it was, he couldn't figure it out, but it rattled almost every nerve. He hadn't accounted for either of them figuring out his scheme. "So…" Corthoes stuttered, fear starting to well up inside of him. "I take it you don't plan on making a deal then?"

Instinctively, his two bodyguards reacted to his distress and stepped forward, both of their postures suggesting they were ready to act at any time. All they needed was the command to do so. Corthoes knew he had been backed into a corner, all the while Chrollo stared him down. It was something he hadn't anticipated as the entire scenario was becoming more than he could handle. He could tell just from the way Chrollo watched him.

This time, he became the prey the shark was hunting.

"You are quite observant," Chrollo stated casually, a faint grin twisting his lips, "and I commend your skills in figuring that much sooner than I had anticipated. However, there is no mistaking that I do not plan on working with you after your persistent attempts to take advantage of us. I may be a thief, but I am not someone who takes kindly to being swindled." With that, Chrollo summoned Skill Hunter, and almost immediately, the fat man's eyes bulged while Kurapika groaned in exasperation.

He couldn't believe that his lover was actually going to extremes to solve their current problem. It made Kurapika practically seethe. "Damn it! You have got to be kidding me. You are really going to do this?" He growled, and the Kurta felt his eyes flash scarlet. "This is exactly what I wanted to avoid!"

Chrollo sighed, but he faced Kurapika calmly. "I know you aren't particularly fond of me doing this, but as it turns out, this really is the last resort. I am not about to let this man win at the game he's playing. Not only is my pride at stake, but I am no damn fool. I am sure you can relate."

It took some time before Kurapika found the will to answer, and even then, he was still trying to make sense of everything that happened. They both watched each other fixedly before he finally conceded.

Although Kurapika hated to admit that Chrollo was right, there was no moving forward with their potential business venture with Corthoes. The merchant was determined to undermine them no matter the circumstance. "I get it," Kurapika uttered slowly, and this time, he gazed over at the fat man who was growing increasingly wary by the minute. "While I am not entirely thrilled by this turn of events, I don't blame you. Truthfully, the feeling is mutual about this little prospect. I bet this man didn't plan on letting go of the eyes at all."

Following Kurapika's allegation, Corthoes began to sweat. Practically everything he had prepared to execute was gone in mere seconds. These were no ordinary people he was dealing with. He could tell they were extremely dangerous.

So many emotions raged through him, and Corthoes was hit with a strong urge to escape from the situation before it could get any worse. Without command, his two bodyguards advanced onward, ready to defend him at a moment's notice. He would use them as cover to exit the shop before Chrollo and Kurapika could react.

Something wasn't right about them, and he knew it. Given the fact that he was sure Kurapika was a man posing as a woman. It was all the more reason to get away from the situation. Those people definitely were not who they claimed to be.

"Well, that's too bad," Corthoes said mockingly, and he couldn't help the smirk that followed his words, "for you at least. I was hoping we could work something out, but now that won't be possible." After that, he gestured for his bodyguards to take charge, and they reacted without hesitation. Immediately, their auras flared to life, and Corthoes licked his lips in delight. "I'm sorry boys, but this is where we part ways." He slunk further to the back as his bodyguards motioned forward.

Chrollo was the first to respond to Corthoes's blatant offense and he wasted not another second in taking action while flipping through Skill Hunter's pages. His aura flared as one of the hulking men advanced towards him with the barrel of a gun aimed straight at his chest, and seconds later, multitudes of blue flames sprang to life around them. Chrollo fluidly retrieved his Benz Knife then raised it before him while preparing to attack as the man continued skulking forward.

From his peripheral vision, he could see that Kurapika was doing the same as the younger man was readying to challenge his opponent using his chains.

Before he could do anything else, the large man charged at him then fired, the sound of bullets echoed through the air as Chrollo quickly ducked out of the way. Then, he turned immediately on his heel and lunged, the tip of the knife aimed at the man's face. Just before it was about to connect, the man tried to sucker punch him, and Chrollo narrowly missed being hit. He then countered without hesitation and jerked the knife upwards.

This time, his blade was deflected off the side of the man's gun and Chrollo found himself being thrust back but recovered soon after. He straightened while strategically surveying his opponent. The man showed no signs of weakness or slowing down as there was precise determination etched on his hardened features. Like Chrollo, neither of them was ready to back down.

At the same time, there was a loud clang of metal as Kurapika thrust his Dowsing Chain toward the other bodyguard who wielded a large pipe. The man instantly deflected it before he cast the object aside to grab something more damaging, which made Kurapika go automatically on the defensive. So far each of his attacks had been countered by altered objects that kept him back and from attacking. There was no mistaking the person he faced was a Manipulator and the man was fairly skilled. With how easily the bodyguard maintained distance between them was impressive, but also vexing.

Figuratively speaking, the man should've retained the upper hand considering their Nen classes, but his enemy was human and nothing like those maniacal beasts he faced from before.

Even if his chances were lower against someone diverse in Manipulation, Kurapika knew the two men weren't as highly skilled as he and Chrollo were.

Perhaps Corthoes took pride in the lavish, but the man wasn't too bright. Whether or not they had to eliminate the fat man's bodyguards, Kurapika wasn't leaving without the Scarlet Eyes.

That left him with little options. Which, despite his lingering morals, Kurapika had already settled on taking extreme measures if it came to that. He wasn't about to let anyone stand in his way.

From his left, Kurapika could see the man was trying to use his blind spot to attack, and he quickly stepped back to keep the bodyguard within his line of vision, but the man advanced on him anyway. This time, he was sporting a cruel-looking weapon that was twisted from multiple objects, and Kurapika was sure it would kill him if the thing ever connected.

Right as the thought crossed his mind, the man suddenly lunged, and Kurapika barely had time to react as the weapon was swung forcefully towards his head. He ducked right as the blunt end of it contacted the wall behind him, and chunks of stone instantly flung into the air as a result.

Everything was happening so fast that Kurapika could hardly keep up. He hissed in frustration before retaliating by kicking the man's feet out from under him, followed by a well-calculated punch to the side.

The man groaned before crumbling to the ground, a pained expression on his face. Kurapika took the opportunity to catch his breath, but almost immediately, the bodyguard scowled before rising to his feet again. Seeing the man get back up so soon while preparing for another onslaught only incited Kurapika's anger even more. It was bad enough that negotiations with Corthoes had fallen through, but to end up in the middle of an altercation as a result left Kurapika feeling absolutely livid.

Even though he had resolved long ago to do whatever it took to acquire the Scarlet Eyes, Kurapika loathed any situation that ended up causing him more inconvenience than he cared to deal with.

Since the start of their journey to collect the eyes, he and Chrollo had found themselves in the middle of several grueling fights, and each time, it caused Kurapika mental and physical stress. The conflict between his morals and immorality made it difficult for him to contend, especially as the line separating them began to blur.

Getting forced into positions of violence only instigated Kurapika's hesitation and ambiguity when it came down to using drastic measures in achieving his goals. The concept still unnerved him, but by the same token, he was also enthralled by it.

The very thought lingered in the back of Kurapika's mind as his enemy began circling him - if it took going to extremes so he could put an end to this little game of theirs, then so be it. There would be no holding back.

He dropped into a fighting stance again, the length of his chains now snaking around him as he was ready to attack. Kurapika was able to catch glimpses of Chrollo combating his own adversary as the bodyguard he fought was using bullets, which he surmised were enhanced. It was just another problem they did not need. Naturally, he and Chrollo were more proficient, but it was still hindering them from completing their goal.

They needed to put an end to their scuffle quickly as it increased the chances of their mission failing, and Kurapika didn't want that.

If he lost this, if he failed to retrieve the eyes - every thought abruptly ceased when the man charged again, but with more brute force than before. Kurapika moved to avoid his crude weapon from smashing into his side, then quickly countered by whipping his chains around the bodyguard's arm. With a hard jerk, Kurapika forced the appendage forward, and the weapon fell from the man's now open hand with a loud clunk. He then fluidly drove an uppercut into the base of the bodyguard's jaw.

The man staggered backward and collided with the wall behind him. Almost simultaneously, the man Chrollo was fighting crumbled just mere inches away.

Once Kurapika managed to regain his breath, he straightened to observe his opponent and ensure the other man had no plans on getting back up when he caught sight of movement from behind. Kurapika then turned to see Corthoes slowly sneaking away while carrying a canister pressed to his chest. Exacerbation rose the moment Kurapika realized the bastard was trying to make off with the Scarlet Eyes.

Instinct took over without hesitation, and his eyes turned so bright they could have nearly lit the entire room. It was if no awareness or thought was present, and Kurapika took off after him like a rabid wolf. The second Corthoes noticed he was being pursued, the man started to run, but it didn't take long before Kurapika caught up to him and the younger man instantly wrapped his chains around the fat man's body before driving him brutally to the ground.

Fear welled inside Corthoes as he crept backward away from the blond approaching him, but when his gaze landed on Kurapika, he felt his heart seize within his chest. It was like a demon was upon him, the way those eyes burned, so vibrant, so tempestuous, Corthoes could barely will himself to move. It didn't take him long to connect that his stalker bore the exact same eyes as the ones within the container he held.

It was inconceivable.

Corthoes was frozen in place, his entire body immobilized. How something like this could happen was beyond his comprehension, but it felt like death was closing in. "W-who the hell are you?" He uttered, though his tongue was dry and he could barely speak. "I thought they were all dead! I was told the Kurta clan was completely defunct!"

There was no immediate response other than the sensation of fingers winding tightly within the collar of his shirt and the force of himself being pulled upward. His face came within inches of Kurapika's.

"No," Kurapika growled almost animal-like, the words low and terse, "there is one left, and you are looking at them." He twisted his grip more within the man's clothes as it took everything he had to keep from snapping then and there. "If you think I will let you desecrate my fallen brethren, you have another damn thing coming!" With that, he thrust Corthoes back against the wall behind him and pinned the man with no remorse. Kurapika felt his patience waning. "Hand over the eyes. Now!"

An expression of defiance crossed over Corthoes's features as he scowled in spite of Kurapika's intimidation tactic. It was clear they had no intention of relenting, but he wasn't about to give in to Kurapika either. The eyes were valuable regardless if there was a survivor or not. The demand was absolutely outlandish!

"You can't be serious?!" He spat and shirked away from Kurapika as he tried to jerk free. "I paid more than for these than your brain could ever comprehend and you think I'd just hand them over to you without compensation?" Corthoes continued, anger lacing his voice. "What? Are you fucking crazy?"

Crazy wasn't even the word. Kurapika was downright insane!

He had to escape, to extricate himself from Kurapika's grip, but it was vice-like, and every time he went to pull back, those fingers fisted his clothes even more. He was like an animal being led to the slaughter.

Every part of him cinched as his body continued to remain locked in place, the ability to control even his motor functions was virtually non-existent. Corthoes tensed as the world moved in slow motion and the next thing he knew, something hard collided with the side of his head. Instantly, he saw stars.

"How dare you!" Came the response to his provocation, and then he could only hear a low ringing in his ears. The impact caused him to become dazed, and Corthoes groaned as a result. It took him several minutes to realize he had been roughly punched. "What makes you think I would allow you to walk away with the eyes of my people? My own clan! And for your own gain? Just so you can profit from the victims of misfortune?"

It was like something inside Kurapika abruptly snapped, and his eyes practically blazed with scarlet fury. Their hue became so intense and luminous that it made them appear to have a life all their own. No longer was he in control of himself, and without thought or care, consciousness, or mercy, Kurapika began to assault Corthoes ruthlessly, each punch he delivered was incited from his volatile nature.

"Damn you."

Corthoes raised his hands up in defense, and regardless of his pleas, Kurapika continued to pummel him as blood splattered almost everywhere, even across his porcelain-hued skin and clothes.

"Damn you."

There was no rhyme or reason to his actions, and all Kurapika could feel was rage. The very idea that someone else was abusing the final remains of his clan had driven him over the proverbial edge, making him completely snap.

"Damn you, damn you!" Kurapika cursed, his fists keeping their relentless assault. Battered skin, broken teeth, the hints of blue and purple accenting a swollen eye, any more punishment, and he would kill the man. But, Kurapika couldn't stop or didn't want to stop. He even heard a faint voice trying to rationalize with him and yet, Kurapika ignored its desperate requisitions.

Nothing else mattered aside making Corthoes pay. He hated the man, hated anyone for making him and his clan suffer. The world was a wicked place for doing this to him, and Kurapika wanted to cave in on himself, to run away…

To watch the world burn.

"Goddamn, you!" Kurapika raised one of his fists again, ready to send the man into the afterlife when something clutched his arm and stayed his hand.

Kurapika almost rounded on whoever dared hinder him when his glazed over eyes landed on Chrollo. There was a brief delay as his raging instincts caused him to try and pull away, but Chrollo held firm. The look he saw was demanding, but also beseeching. Kurapika struggled with composing himself.

"Enough Kurapika," Chrollo commanded softly and eased his lover's arm down, "there is no need to do this." Once the younger man's hand was lowered entirely, Chrollo placed a finger beneath his chin and turned Kurapika's head. "You can stop now."

It was as if there was no life or emotion within Kurapika's near vacant expression and it worried Chrollo. He remembered the few times where his lover went off the deep end, or practically broke down, but it was nothing like what he saw now. Kurapika was like a metaphoric zombie.

Gently, his thumb stroked over the Kurta's jawline before his fingers made their way down along Kurapika's cheek to his neck. Chrollo hummed soothingly as he did so and eventually, recognition shone in his lover's eyes.

"Chrollo?" Kurapika uttered softly and he nodded.

He cupped the younger man's cheeks. "I'm here." Chrollo then didn't waste another moment and he tilted Kurapika's head up to lay a kiss on his lips. "Everything is going to be alright."

Cognizance slowly returned and Kurapika breathed in sharply. Chrollo's presence, even the tingling left behind from the older man's lips on his own shocked him back to reality. It took him some time to regain his senses, but when it did, Kurapika was appalled by what he saw. Corthoes laid on the ground, battered and beaten, the very sight startling him.

"What the hell happened?" Kurapika spoke, his voice shaky. He looked down to see the remnants of blood on his hands and dress. "Did I do this?" The revelation nearly turned him ghostly pale and Kurapika was disgusted with himself. How he was able to commit such a heinous act scared even him.

Kurapika found it hard to look at Chrollo or his victim. The fat man groaned in agony and it upset him more.

That alone was something Chrollo readily picked up on, and he carefully turned Kurapika back towards him again. "It's not your fault, love." He began and stared down into Kurapika's mortified eyes. "You were only doing what you thought needed to be done. No one blames you."

Despite his lover's attempt to mitigate him, Kurapika frowned. Just knowing what he had done and what he was capable of left him troubled. Kurapika had almost killed someone, and the very thought twisted his insides.

What made it worse was that he had lost all control — lost himself. Kurapika acted like a mindless beast, and that concerned him. "How can you say that?" He blurted out, pain lacing his voice. "How can you make it seem like nothing happened when it's clear that I nearly killed a man? What makes such an act permissible?" It was hard to keep the vitriol from accenting his words as Kurapika was still reeling from the aftermath of what happened, the truth of the matter leaving him repulsed.

"It's not about that," Chrollo spoke in a soft tone while trying to console Kurapika, "as I am not justifying what is right or wrong here, but the simple fact that you only reacted because it seemed like a necessity at the time." There was a pause as Chrollo searched his lover's visage, and the hurt he saw gripped his heart. He still hated seeing Kurapika tormented. "It is a fine line that my Spiders and I already walk, and eventually, so will you. There will come a time where you will have to make these types of hard decisions. I just knew this wasn't one of them, and it's why I stopped you."

Silence fell between them soon after, and there was a moment where Kurapika looked upset regardless of what Chrollo said. Coming to terms with that fact was another aspect Kurapika struggled with as he too knew it was an unavoidable consequence.

There was no changing the inevitable and while he was still scared of the direction he was headed in, Kurapika understood that it was due to the choices he made. Forgetting that now would only make it harder on him.

Steeling himself, and becoming indurated was the only way to guard against those kinds of outcomes, or else he may never manage to survive.

Kurapika drew in a ragged breath.

"Maybe you're right," he whispered before turning away from Corthoes despite the fat man's whimpering, "and that it needed to be done." Instead, he focused on Chrollo as listening to Corthoes's anguished sounds impinged him further. The very sight of him had left a bitter taste in Kurapika's mouth. "But, it's just something I am not ready to accept right now. Killing someone solely because I can is one thing that angers me, and I can't bring myself to do it." Kurapika paused, and while he fought with his conflicting emotions, it didn't stop him from wanting to go forward. He had already made his choice. "Not while it goes against everything I have always believed."

Again, it didn't come as any surprise that Kurapika would react in such a way since Chrollo had long since been aware of his lover's preference in morals. Getting him to alter his way of thinking and beliefs would take time as he had no intention of pushing Kurapika to change, but sooner or later, it would become inevitable. He was sure his lover realized that considering the choices he made.

He would guide and support his lover for however long it took. "I don't hold it against you," Chrollo intoned, assuring Kurapika, "as I still have no objections with the decisions you make." Then, he placed a hand on Kurapika's arm hoping the gesture would offer the younger man some comfort. "How you wish to proceed in circumstances such as this is up to your discretion." Chrollo stopped for a moment and he studied Kurapika attentively. "Just bear in mind that eventually, you may find yourself with no other options but the ones you least desire. It's an unavoidable reality being a part of my Spiders." He knew what his lover was dealing with was arduous as he could see it in the young Kurta's eyes. Chrollo just hoped that Kurapika would be able to handle being a part of the Genei Ryodan.

The sensation of a hand coming over his made Chrollo blink as it drew his palm over Kurapika's lips. He could almost smell the blood still on his lover's skin. "I know," Kurapika commented as he nuzzled against it. "Just give me some time. I need to think before I can come to terms with the entire prospect. Figuring out my place in all of this is something I have to do."

Chrollo sighed, and his fingers automatically began rubbing over Kurapika's cheek. "Good." He whispered before smiling. "You have nothing to worry about as I will support you during your transition, but don't forget what this path entails. It's not a lavish or righteous lifestyle, and you will have to accept it sooner or later. That is something you assured me of when you committed to becoming one of my Spiders."

"I haven't forgotten," Kurapika responded almost immediately, and he cast a quick glance over at Corthoes, who appeared confused by what took place. The man sniveled in spite of his horrible injuries. "You can trust me there."

Then, he pulled away from Chrollo and rose - staying where they were only added to the apprehension he felt. While he understood what his lover said, the incident was still fresh in his mind, and remaining around Corthoes was only inciting his guilt. It was best to leave before he harbored more regret than he did.

Nodding, Chrollo followed Kurapika's example and stood himself, though he barely spared a glance towards the fat man. There was no sympathy in him for the tawdry merchant. "We should probably go. There is no point in staying here any longer."

"Yeah," he uttered and turned to face Chrollo, "I want to get as far away from here as possible." Kurapika inhaled before halting. "What about him?" He pointed at Corthoes.

Chrollo stowed away his Benz knife then waved a hand dismissively. "Leave him. I am sure someone will find him eventually."

"Alright," Kurapika complied, and just as he was about to follow his lover out, he stopped abruptly again. "One last thing." He added and reached down to extract the canister with the Scarlet Eyes from the merchant's grip before wrapping his arms around tightly it. "I am taking this with me."

He ignored Corthoes's protests and fell into step beside Chrollo as they left the man and his store behind.

---

After Thoughts: So, here we have it, not only was this chapter integrated with another fight scene, but we also get to see Kurapika's slow descent into the darker side of himself he had always been afraid of, especially as he continues endeavoring to be a part of the Genei Ryodan. From here, things will only intensify and how Kurapika manages to handle difficult situations. I have always wanted to write him to not only, struggle with his convictions, but eventually letting them go. It's going to get interesting from here.