Storm Battle goes brrrrr. Rain will be next~ Chapter's quite long, and I see that FF's email notif system is down which is a hella bummer. Either way, updates will still come gradually.


Chapter 22: Lighthouse Through the Storm


The boys knew what it meant to have scars. They each had gotten their own sets while growing up. But, sometimes there will be that special one that holds more meaning than the rest.

For Ryohei, it was the one on his eyebrow, when he'd saved Kyoko. His badge of honor.

Yamamoto hadn't said anything, but there was a teeny tiny mark from the time he'd gotten bit at Kokuyo Land's pieced out flora and fauna. It was a symbol of his own bravery for others.

Gokudera had his own inside his heart. He wasn't quite healed about it yet, hence why his own household and relationship with his sister and father were rocky.

They hadn't expected Tsuna and Tsuri to have a set of her own. This same girl, smiles and all, had dealt with something so terrifying. And the way Tsuna told the story, he had a huge weighted anvil of remorse resting on his back for many years. They could tell, he was easy to read because of her. And they couldn't stand to see both of them like this; suffering in silence.

The chosen Vongola guardians promised Sawada Tsunayoshi that they would do whatever they could to be there for Tsukairi. Not because they felt pity, or an obligation to; it was their loyalty and friendship for them. They had done much for them, and had great meaning in their lives. They'd allowed them to find meaning to their life when they couldn't, accepted them how they were with no judgement, and encouraged their passions.

The Storm, the Rain and the Sun would do all they could for their Sky and his only Star.

... ... ...

Unable to get a single wink of sleep, Tsuna was antsy to get to Nakamura Hospital. He knew it was a school day, he knew that if he were even a second late Hibari would bite him to death upon arrival at the gates, unless Dino had taken his chance to lure him away yet again.

But he'd take his chances anyways.

Tsuna, with Reborn perched on his shoulder the whole way, checked in by the lobby and searched for Tsuri's room. He took a surprise when he found it empty and he started HIEEE-ing and questioning where else she could've escaped to. So he went into Lambo's room in a panic.

"Kaasan! Tsuri's not in her room! Do you know where—"

"Ah, Tsu-kun!"

"I'm right here, you don't need to get so panicky."

Tsuna felt lightheaded immediately. Tsuri, in the clothes from the previous night, sat by her mother, who was had been tending to Lambo the whole night after leaving the ER hours ago. And he thought she'd ragingly got up in the middle of the night and run away like a fire breathing dragon.

"Has he awoken yet?"

Nana's smile faded and shook her head. "Not yet. The doctors did say he was out of danger now."

"That's good…" Tsuna trailed off, then cleared his throat. Back to the other main reason why he'd come in the first place. "W-What about you Tsuri?"

She didnt turn her head. More like he could sense that she was too ashamed to look at him or Reborn right now. But the tutor wasn't going to give her the satisfaction of being rude, so he perched onto her lap and crossed his arms, intimidating her to even try to stay quiet.

She tried to avert her gaze, but she could sense the itch Reborn had to kick her to the ground and start scolding her senseless. She hid the spike of fear in her system at being hung by her toes, rubbed her eyes tiredly and played with her hoodie's frayed strings.

"I'm fine. Doctor says that it was just a fever gained from overworking myself. I should be good to go after Kaasan signs some discharge papers."

She could tell that the conversation wasn't over, and it would be rude to kick her mom out of the room without a proper explanation just to keep talking to them. Anna was still adamant on getting a proper answer from her on what happened last night which gave her a clue that the lies weren't working as good as they did before. Tsuri whispered to her mom briefly on forgetting something in the room next door, and gestured the other two to follow her there.

First thing Reborn did when they closed the door was kick her on the back.

"OW! What was that for!?"

"That was for the idiotic stunt you pulled yesterday," his voice had hints of annoyance in it. "You risked your ring from being confiscated."

Tsuri winced, rubbing the sore spot on her back and her own annoyance shot up. "You detected distress in me and kept your mouth shut. You shouldn't have let me go in the first place."

Tsuna gulped. That specific tone of hers should have been lowered because now Reborn's aura was getting increasingly worse by how low the temperature was getting inside the room. Considering it was autumn season, and the room window was wide open, he probably didn't have much patience left. Reborn was collected and stoic at times but even his silence and his stances could give him a hint to how he was. One needed a good sturdy shell if they were to confront Reborn head on.

"They would have killed you for breaking your verbal vow. You'd be in a coffin and all hell would have broken loose. Is that what you wanted?" He frowned. "Don't be an idiot Tsukairi."

He was absolutely right; they weren't in a position where she could afford to mess up. But...she hadn't thought things through. She'd lost control and literally saw red with Xanxus baiting them like fish to bite the fishing line and suffocate them. And her hands...

She stared down at them, not at all pleased at the dirtiness they reflected nor the filed nails she used to cat scratch dad's face with too. "I corrupted my flame, didn't I?" She murmured,

Reborn and Tsuna followed her movement, and the Vongola don sighed and nodded, unsure what to say next.

"This is why we told you not to get distracted during training," Reborn's tone turned into something less accusatory, more understanding. "Now we have to make Tsuna here train to purify them for you as soon as possible, or you won't be able to fight later on."

"Tsuri," Tsuna began wearily, fidgeting with his own hands. "Let me help… Can you tell us about your meditation? What you saw? Rosemary-san says she needs you to tell me so I know what to do."

There was no way for her to explain. How could she start it without triggering another episode? How could she ever forget? Even if she tried really hard, she couldn't just push them away. The memories were imprinted deep on her mind and heart, so they stayed. It made it impossible to erase.

They might think she was crazy too if she included the side pieces of her issues, saying she was seeing visions of other people who didn't actually exist, hear the echoes of their voice without wanting to.

She knew she should probably take this opportunity. The sooner she dealt with this, the better. So she patted the empty spaces on the hospital bed, and sighed. There was no use in being so closed off now. No matter how much she'd tried to keep things to herself and endure them without worrying Tsuna, it was a habit that would no longer be effective. Everything had to be said eventually.

"If I tell you everything, and I mean everything," she started. "If I explain detail to detail of what's going on, do you promise you won't think I'm crazy?"


That afternoon….

Tsuna promised himself last night that he would no longer whine and complain about training. If pushing his body to the limit and bearing with Reborn and Rosemary's Spartan training was what it'd take to get stronger and stop Xanxus, he wouldn't hesitate.

He thought he'd continue back at Namimori mountain, but this time he was taken farther and farther down, almost by the borderline that separated Namimori and Kokuyo.

His mission for the next few days until his match, was achieving a move of what was called the Zero Point Breakthrough. For that, he needed his Hyper Will State to last farther than just ten minutes at most. His body needed to tolerate the strain in order to achieve the move.

But before he could start that, his aim for the whole afternoon was to master the Hyper Introspection, and learn the move Tsuri subonscicously used months ago to purify flames. Rosemary Solleano was the only one who could teach him such a thing, therefore here she was in full presence, ready to give him a taste of what Tsuri had learned from as well.

"I thought Tsuri was the only one who could do that move," Tsuna pointed out, warming up his body with some stretches. "Can't she do it to herself?"

"That's not how it works. Those with the Hyper Introspection ability are only able to utilize it for others. The substance in each of our flames work like cells; for the purification process, there needs to be an external flame built with almost exact properties for it to work."Rosemary, rose her hair up, a sign that she was in the teaching zone and joined in the warm-up with her nephew. "Luckily because you two are twins, they're more compatible than ever. Think of it like donating blood."

She straightened her body, giving her legs another stretch before guiding Tsuna to follow her movements. "Do you have your gloves with you?"

Tsuna's lost reaction popped as he went through his pockets, showing them to the older woman before putting them on.

"Basil, you're going to need to warm his body up more. Some sparring in Hyper Will Mode should be good."

"Of course, Solleano-sama!" Basil said enthusiastically.

"Eh?!"

"You didn't think that stretching would be the only thing you needed to get started did you?" Rosemary tapped the hilt of her katana, a glint in her eyes that he'd seen many times before on the other tutor relaxing in a hammock by the trees.

"This third stage of yours is mixed with Hyper Will control. I hadn't expected for Tsukairi's flames to become corrupted, and should have forseen it before it got this bad. You also weren't supposed to learn this until you were really prepared but things happen and…" she gestured over to the arcobaleno behind them, blue eyes twitching involuntarily. "He takes advantage of situations as you can see."

'Even Rosemary-san can't say no to Reborn!'

"Thankful for once that Iemitsu loaned you to me for the time being. Basil, will you be alright?"

"Yes. My master has given me permission to increase my hyper will dosage by one more. It will strain my body but it will be okay."

"Tsuna," Rosemary approached the young boy. "Your sister is counting on you. Make sure you don't lose an ounce of focus, okay?"

Tsuna agreed. He was determined to make sure to succeed in his training. He didn't understand anything about corrupted flames but he knew he didn't want to see Tsuri fall apart anymore. He would do anything necessary to allow her breathe peacefully from now on.

"Okay Rosemary-san!"

"No I mean it Tsunayoshi. Make sure you don't. Your body temperature needs to be at its highest peak. If you stray focus, your body can implode from the inside."

He stiffened like frozen water. He could never catch a break, could he?


Meanwhile at Nami-chuu

Shamal had instructed him that his training hadn't finished and they'd pick up from where they left off. His day went normally, his Juudaime went back to trainning diligently and ready to start taking action.

That's what he admired most about him. His Juudaime never hesitated when it came to protecting anyone, and that fact stood cemented for Tsuri.

She'd been right. He hadn't known how their sibling relationship worked, until Tsuna had come clean about her and what'd she'd suffered through as a kid.

Gokudera understood now why she'd always been so weary when it came to him, why he was always at the ready to be there for Tsuna, and why she'd clashed with him in the earliest months of meeting. She was the original right hand of Juudaime, behind the scenes and making sure not one hair of his was touched while she took the blow.

It was his turn to take that role now. He vowed to protect Vongola Tenth with his life, be that unrelenting shield of his where no attack would enter. But in some corner of his mind he wondered; would he do the same for Sawada Tsukairi, the Vongola Mezza?

He'd never acknowledged her role; I mean in what mafia family is the boss role split? He'd heard of balancing power, like a democracy amongst all parties so there would be no ego elevation of betterness. Just what was the original founder thinking, making this so difficult for his future successors?

Could he dedicate himself and become loyal to more than one person? There was no denying that the copy had welcomed him into their circle despite breathing fire on him relentlessly…

Gokudera shook his head again for the millionth time. He needed out of this suffocating nurse's room to think this more throughly but because Shamal had bailed on Tsuri's checkup last night for being wasted, he hadn't functioned like a human being all of the school day and hadn't finished his daily report to give to the school and well…

"Okay." The silver head put his last folded paper airplane in a box and decided enough was enough with this waste of time, biting his tongue to start mistreating him. "Wake up Shamal! I'm done."

The doctor, who had taken a voluntarily good nap to avoid his responsibilities on one of the empty beds in the treatment room got up and eyed the box on the table, then at Gokudera's hand.

"Ah, you folded it all into paper airplanes…." He stared at him incredulously. "What are you doing?"

'Is he still drunk?!' "Wh-What am I doing? I'm training!" He yelled like it was obvious. "Didn't you say we were going to finish up the new technique?"

Shamal plopped back onto the bed with his arms over his head. "Ah, you can stop making airplanes."

He could feel a twig of anger snap in his brain. "What?!"

"I said we were going to finish up, which means you already retained whatever I wanted you to learn from that training."

"W-Wait, but I still can't shoot down any paper airplanes!"

"You really don't get it do you?"Shamal sighed, giving up on returning to his nap. "What in saying is mere guts aren't going to take you the rest of the way. It's just like picking up girls."

'What the fuck is he talking about?' the silver head thought, exasperated.

Shamal had it plotted down to a T. He'd been so keen on observing the bomber, detecting his little changes here and there. He'd known him as a little tyke. Implanting inspiration and mischief here wouldn't do any harm, would it? He needed a reaction. The doctor shared a sly smile, one the silver head did not find pleasing in the slightest.

"Do you know the hidden key to success when picking girls up?"

"W-Well…" Gokudera's cheeks instantly turned pink. "Sexiness?"

It was honestly adorable and yet so naive of his student. Lack of experience and being so air-headed to this area of growing up. Shamal nearly let out a full blown laugh. 'This kid's still in puberty…'

"You're so hopeless Hayato. Look. Up here. Right here." The older man gestured to his head. "People who can't get girls make up all sorts of excuses when they fail. But in the end, they just weren't smart enough." He put a hand to his chin, trying to seem wise. "Use your head a bit and you can land any girl on the planet."

Gokudera balled his fists up. He knew where this was going…

"For example, girls like Tsuri-chan! She's a bit much to handle, some high maintenance but you'll do just fine."

'There, he actually said it.' He banged his fist on the table to erase whatever questionable emotion that tried creeping up into his stomach. "Could you cut the roundabout methods without mentioning the stupid copy and get to the point?"

'There he goes there he goes being an airhead.' The doctor shrugged his shoulders. What else would it take his beloved little student to realize his own emotions. "I might know the answer, but I'm not telling you."

"W-why the hell not!"

"Only people who make the effort to find their own ways, can stay alive and survive in the world you're in."

The silver heads temper died down once Shamal's lighthearted demeanor changed. "All of the close people in my life who were naive and reasonable died horribly. Only the idiots who thought a little more out of the box with ulterior motives, survived." He tossed a pill to the sky, revealing his signature trademark in the mafia world; the little trident mosquito that contained just about one in a million diseases that could kill in one single bite.

"Squeeze that empty head of yours a little harder. I didn't have you fly those paper airplanes for all those days without a reason. First of all, if you're too weak, you'll make me look like a bad teacher."

"So you're doing this for yourself?!" Gokudera said outraged he outwardly admitted to this whole training being about how he was reflecting him as a tutor.

Shamal ignored him. "I'm sure you want to impress a certain someone too. Got it? I won't let you go to the match until you master the technique."

"Don't give me that crap! What's with that exception!"

"If I let you go in your current state, you'll die a dog's death. Your opponent, that Belphagor. He's is the Varia's top prodigy."

Gokudera understood all that. He knew that he had yet to give more to his training than anyone else. But they needed this win. If he could secure this ring then maybe he'd make up for Juudaime's ring getting taken away. Maybe he'd be able to get a head start so Tsuri wouldn't have to fight in the end and keep her out of harm's way too… He caught himself wishing he'd done so since the beginning. "But—"

"I'll say it again. I won't let you go to the match until you master the technique."

When Shamal set his mind on an idea, there was no cutting it off. Gokudera knew he was being dead straight with him. And there was no way he'd let himself fail. There was too much in the line for him not to show to his battle tonight.


...


Tsuri was not allowed to train, meditate or go near any hyper will bullets until it was deemed clear by Rosemary, Reborn, and the primary physician, Dr. Shamal.

He'd stopped by mid morning after Bianchi picked her up from the hospital. He was his usual self, and reeked of alcohol like the usual. He gave a half assed apology for not showing up the night before, but he'd given his word to the baby hitman that he'd show up for Tsuri's exam and if he didn't then there'd be hell to pay.

It took only one pull on Bianchi's arm to beg her not to leave her alone with the perverted doctor. Though he was harmless, he still had the tendency to linger with his touches and since Tsuna or Reborn were present, she was not going to blow a fuse, and risk it turning into another attack.

Like the normie doctors in Nakamura, he said everything was fine. He then checked her breathing, her eyes, then her fingers, back and forth, under the nail and pulled the skin to see if it was just a mere burn to treat. But when he saw the color returning, Tsuri not wincing in discomfort or pain, and how it started spreading toward the third quadrants of her hand like little black veins, he retracted his previous statement and told her she could not absolutely access her flames for any reason or method. He wrapped her hands in bandage and told her to avoid riling up her emotions for the time being.

It irked her at how vague everyone was telling her about her condition, just simply stating that she needed to purify said flames. She hadn't understood much, but by Bianchi's silence, she knew it was a serious condition and she needed to abide by the directions.

She was in the kitchen, sipping some hot tea the rose haired woman brewed, vexation eating at her every corner of her brain. She really shouldn't have done the meditation on her own. She manifested whatever consequence her anxiety birthed in the midst of it. It was all up to Tsuna now to see if he could manifest the same ability she could apparently do and if he didnt… welll…

'It looks like some sort of virus in your system. See the veiny lines? Its spreading. If its not treated right away, it can start eating away at your immune system and then…'

"I can die from this?" Tsuri whispered, stress increasing in her back muscles.

"Don't worry so much about it," Bianchi sat across from her, placing down a plate of purple oozing cookies and cups of tea. Tsuri admired her, how calm and collected she usually was when it came to everyday happenings, unless Reborn or a visual reminder of her ex-lover was around. "Tsuna will help you."

"Tsuna's always hesitated with training. How do I know he won't just give up halfway in it?"

"You should have seen how determined he was when he left the house to see you." Bianchi smiled. "He's set on doing everything he can to help you. That's what older siblings are for. Leave it to him, you just rest and take it easy."

Tsuri peeked inside the cup to see whether it was safe from the woman's poison cooking touch. Thankfully the liquid was safe and clear. Tea was the only thing spared from anything else she'd offered to her since she came home. She internally cheered.

"But it's up to the younger siblings not to cause trouble for them, isn't it?" Tsuri put her cup down, dejected. "All I do is worry him, and everyone else. Ive tried to keep everything to myself but even doing that makes him worry."

Bianchi gently, reached out, placing her hands over her own. "Reborn told me. About you."

Oh great, Tsuri muttered in her brain. Whats he doing blabbing my business to others without my permission?' At first she was miffed, but Bianchi wasn't so bad as a person. Sure she's kind of weird most of the time, but her blunt honesty and genuine compassion were refreshing compared to others. Unlike her stupid brother for instance. Always hiding behind that crankiness of his that it was almost nearly impossible to get to know him on a deeper level.

"Ah so he did."

"Don't be mad. He thought it'd help you."

"Help in what way?"

Bianchi's pressed her lips together, like she was choosing her words before she said the wrong thing. Tsuri's lips curled up slightly. How even the Poison Scorpion was treating her delicately so the conversation wouldnt sour. Probably a coping action she had when talking to her own little brother.

"You have people that come from the source. We came from this life. More like we were born in it, Hayato and I. Being the eldest and not being able to have a normal childhood was something I've always resented. But we can't pick and choose where we're born."

Tsuri sighed, feeling like an asshole after getting pissed off earlier. Of course. She'd forgotten. Living with so many people in her home now just made her overlook their realistic background. "I'm sorry… I… didnt you get choices though? Have a say?"

"In this world, words don't hold much power unless you got it. Kids in this world have to abide. Learn, adapt and survive. Thats how it's always been." Bianchi pushed some of her long hair behind her ear. "So, if there is anyone that could understand whatever it is you're going through, it's us. I'm sorry you had to go through something like that on your own, and I'm glad you're safe and sound."

Tears pricked the corners of Tsuri's eyes. It was nice, having someone like her to say reassuring and comforting words like these. Tsuri appreciated Tsuna's comfort, but she couldn't share it with him so openly without making him feel partially responsible when he wasn't at fault. Her father had been cold regarding the incident, probably too racked with guilt to let Tsuri near. Nana had no clue, and her mother had no need to deal with such a heavy burden again like she had years ago in fretting for her child's life. But Bianchi...

Here was a woman who knew what the cruel side of the mafia felt like. She'd witnessed, participated. And by the sounds of it, it seemed she risked her own self several times to protect herself and a younger Gokudera. She'd seen worse probably. Those matching emerald eyes she'd seen on the other person. They hid all the sacrifice and pain inside. Tsuri wondered if Gokudera had to purposely build extreme tough skin, pick up a most unhealthy vice and a nasty attitude to live inside the underground too.

"Thank you Bianchi-san." Tsuri murmured, taking another sip. She leaned back against the chair, sighing contently as she felt the warmth of the mug. She probably told her more than she ought to. "He's lucky you know. To have an older sister like you. That hotheaded idiot doesn't know what he's missing."

Bianchi chuckled lowly, shaking her head.

"Does it get... easier?"

Bianchi watched her covered fingers trace the rim of the empty cup. "What does?"

"Recalling the events. The panic attacks and the feeling of my stomach dropping down miles below. Does it get easier to face?"

Bianchi closed her eyes, trying to push aside the memories. They still plagued her mind. Even after a decade of living, they never really went away. She opened her eyes, meeting warm caramel irises. "Not really. But, it dulls out over time."

"I hope I can dull it out soon," Tsuri replied.

"You will."

They sat in a comfortable silence for a few minutes longer, enjoying their tea and each others presence. Bianchi took a sip, watching Tsuri carefully and noticing the young lady had a small smile on her lips. Was it the hot beverage or the company, Bianchi couldn't tell. Her intuition rarely ever failed her.

"Would it be too forward of me to ask you for a favor?" Bianchi ventured. "I can't be present in his match later today. He told me not to come. Will you take care of him for me?"

Gokudera told Bianchi not to come to his match? It was his sister. "Tsuna's got that covered. I'm not sure why I need to." Tsuri shrugged, not sure if she'd even be allowed to go too tonight since Shamal put her on emotional bed rest.

She stared at her suspiciously, trying to gauge any hidden agenda in her request. When she didn't receive any negative reply, she shrugged and stood up, heading to the kitchen to wash the teacups. She made no effort to conceal the smirk that bloomed on her face as she heard the soft thud of Tsuri's footsteps following behind her. She washed the cups while Tsuri dried them, a habit she formed whenever she did her chores conjointly with Tsuna. As she was putting away the last cup in the cabinet, Bianchi turned around. "Tsuna may be the center of his world, but you have a part of it. He just hasn't realized it yet. "

Tsuri's brows knitted together. Bianchi's words weren't exactly making sense. All she could do was nod silently, the pit of her stomach fluttering at her words. 'If i can prevent that look of his future self from ever coming, then I'll do anything.'


Tsuna still hadn't come home, which meant his training was taking longer than expected. Bianchi had gone out of the house to do some things, her mom was still at the hospital watching Lambo with I-pin and Futa. The house was desolate and empty, and she wasn't used to this anymore.

Thinking that she'd probably get napped by a Cervello soon, and checked that the tanuki bracelet was attached to her, the doorbell rang. She opened it and found Yamamoto on her doorstep, smiling his usual refreshing grin.

"Yo Tsuri! I came to pick you up!"

"I thought I wasn't allowed to leave my house?" Tsuri rose an eyebrow.

"The kid called a few hours ago. Tsuna was busy and Gokudera's been missing since after school. He asked me to get you so you wouldn't walk alone." His smile grew wider. "So here I am!"

"So you are," Tsuri sweatdropped, eyes twitching at all the contradicting directions she recieved all day. "Give me a few minutes to change and put my shoes on."

Yamamoto nodded, giving her a thumbs up. "Take your time!"

When Tsuri returned, her hair tied in a ponytail and a simple black long sleeve and jeans, Yamamoto caught a peek of her bandaged arms before returning them back up to greet the girl back. "Ready?"

"Yup. Lets go."

They were walking for nearly five minutes, and Tsuri realized that this was the first time she was walking alone with Yamamoto. Not that she minded it, he was by far the safest green flag of a guy to be around with. He was an airhead sometimes, but he shared a good enthusiasm about sports that allowed her to ask questions about warm-ups and equipment. But that was when Tsuna was around. She didn't know how to start or even have a conversation with a happy go lucky boy like him. She hoped he wouldn't bring up what happened last night or she wasn't sure what excuse she'd give for her pathetic display.

That was why she decided to break the ice with a question. "How's baseball been?" Yamamoto absorbed baseball like a third resource of oxygen, more than anything else, and she was sure because his eyes gleamed whenever she saw him holding a bat, swinging and hitting, even when he was just standing at the cage during their school's club time.

Yamamoto smiled, looking genuinely pleased. "Its been great! Right now since its the fall season and new term, everyone's prepping early for the upcoming tournaments against the other schools." Then there was a second silence as they passed a few more houses before entering the familiar path that took them straight to Nami Middle. "How's soccer?"

Tsuri shrugged. "I haven't played much lately. After last term's loss, they've been keeping me benched."

"Oh, I'm sorry."

"Its okay. I have more on my plate now than worrying about my stupid club. Maybe I should just quit altogether. I'm not feeling it anymore."

Yamamoto frowned in sympathy. "It sounds tough. But maybe you'll ignite that passion again! Who knows!"

Tsuri laughed a little, though it sounded less amused than anything. "Yeah, I hope so."

Her mood lightened a bit with Yamamoto's comment. If nothing else, having him there made her feel at ease. She liked being with him, even if it was only as friends. And she was glad she didn't have to face the awkwardness of silence anymore. Yamamoto was quite easy to talk to, even if she wasn't. Even with a troubled mind, Yamamoto was definitely a breath of fresh air. His presence did something to the air, like suck out all negative specks and fill it with nothing but happy. She could compare it to watching the stillness and beauty of a lake through a forest.

"Ne, Tsuri?"

"Hmm?" She glanced up at him, curious.

He hesitated, then seemed to decide to spit it out anyway. "I know we haven't had any time where we can talk. Just us two. But I want you to know that we can hangout anytime! If you have anything on your mind, I'll be here to listen!"

Tsuri gaped at him for a couple of seconds, completely stunned. It's one thing knowing someone was willing to hear you talk about things that weighed heavy on you. But Yamamoto offering to do just that...she couldn't believe he was making such a declaration of friendship to her, and so freely too. It felt almost romantic. "Yamamoto..."

His eyes widened comically and he started babbling. "Sorry! I didn't mean to be so forward! I guess I was just thinking about stuff, you know? Like, I see how close you and Gokudera are, and thought, I'd like to be included as one of your best friends too." He trailed off awkwardly, scratching his head sheepishly. "You can rely on me as much as Tsuna, is what I'm trying to say."

He thought he'd get chewed out for being so personal and outward with her. Tsuri instead, let out a laugh, a genuine one at heart that warmed Yamamoto up from the inside. "I don't know about me and the idiot being so close when I want to strangle him on sight but," Tsuri's eyes were twinkling. A rare reaction from her since she was always at a distance when the trio were together in and out of school. "I would like that. Very much!"

She didn't know what it was, but the effect the raven head gave her just now left her tranquil. Almost near to how she'd been able to sleep the previous night. She was sure that Yamamoto would be that person for her whenever she needed a good splash of water right over her to get herself back together.

They started talking about more things, subjects that Tsuri hadn't known she could think about in the top of her head, but it made the trip to the school shorter than filled with dread.

"Do you think Gokudera can win his match today?"

"Eh?" Tsuri put a hand under her chin, pondering hard. "He's like a boar. He charges at things head on with no regard for anything else."

"Haha that's a good way to describe him."

"Right?" Tsuri joined in and then held the chain on her neck, gripping the objects tightly. "Which is why I want to have faith that he can. I just don't want him to take it too far." She let out a heavy sigh, remembering Bianchi's request. "I hope he doesn't."

Yamamoto slung a shoulder around her while minding her injury. "You know, Gokudera is pretty tough. We should trust him, yeah?"

Give it to Yamamoto; he always knew what to say, so there was really no need for her to start stressing again. "You're right."

The teens wandered around after crossing the open gate and found Sasagawa Ryohei being the first to be present.

"Sawada-chan! Yamamoto!" he waved excitedly.

"Yo!" the boy greeted back.

"Good afternoon Ryohei-senpai."

"TO THE EXTREME!" the boxer shouted his catchphrase stronger than the norm. "Are you feeling better from yesterday Sawada-chan?"

It felt like a spear was shot to her chest. She'd hoped they'd forgotten by now. It was too good to be true. The rain guardian candidate probably wanted to ask too but had held back in consideration.

She held out both of her hands to show their bandaged up state, fingers and all. "They feel hot sometimes so they're wrapped up." She then bowed down. "I sincerely apologize for the disrespectful display from yesterday."

"Tsuri?"

Ryohei started laughing. "Don't sweat it Sawada-chan! Sawada explained everything yesterday! We know you were having a tough time!"

A nerve snapped and Yamamoto felt a chilling breeze on his right side.

"What do you mean Tsuna explained everything last night?"

Speak of the devil, her brother came in dashing to meet them with Reborn, Rosemary and Basil. Tsuna started cowering when Tsuri's aura flowed around everyone like a deadly monster.

"HIEEEEE!"

"Ne, explain Tsu-nii. What do they mean? You explained what happened yesterday to them?"

"I'm not ready to die young!" He was ready to run from her extended claws.

"You should have thought of that before opening your mouth and telling everyone my business!"

Rosemary gripped her shoulder quickly, the pressure hitting a physical part of her body that made everything feel like jelly and stop her legs. "Relax Tsukairi. No emotional outbursts."

"But Tsuna—!"

"Did what he thought was right," Reborn said from Yamamoto's shoulder. "Everyone here understands perfectly what happened. We move on, end of story."

'Easy for you to say' Tsuri mumbled in her mind. She glared at Tsuna and crossed her arms. "F-Fine. As long as I'm not being treated like a frail piece of glass, I don't mind them knowing anything."

The boys sighed in relief. "Where's Gokudera-kun?"

"Not here yet."

"Huh? I'd thought he'd come with you guys?"

"No…I wonder what happened?" Tsuna said.

"Shamal might be delaying his arrival," Reborn answered. "Knowing him, he wouldn't send a student into battle when there's no chance of winning."

"Then…" started Tsuna.

"His new technique must not be completed," finished Reborn.

"No way!"


...

...


In they were guided to the familiar halls of their middle school. Tsuri had wondered just how they were able to get away with destroying so much property. Thank the heavens that Dino Cavallone was keeping him away miles and miles away or the tonfa wielding boy would have committed atrocities beyond a human's comprehension all over Namimori Middle.

As they waited patiently, clock ticking, Tsuri could see the snickering glances Cielo and the phony prince were directing her way. Almost like they knew the predicament she'd been dealt with and were doing everything they could to egg her on.

She stayed by Rosemary and Yamamoto. There was no way she was going to let herself get swept in again by the flow in atmosphere. Besides, it was Gokudera who was fighting today.

Yet Tsuri couldn't help but bite her nails, eyeing the time limit on the clock. If the bastard didn't show then surely she was going to let herself go to find him and burn him to shreds—

"Ma ma Tsuri. He'll show! Don't get so riled up."

"I can't help it!"

"Neither can I," Tsuna's anxiety was increasing with every tick as well.

"VOI! Did he wuss out?" yelled Squalo.

"What's the point in running? When they lose the ring conflict, they're all going to die anyways," commented Bel.

It was down to one minute before eleven, and it was down to ten seconds. Everyone now rendered hopeless were ready to take the loss but then once the long hand landed, the clock was blown to smithereens.

In entered Gokudera Hayato, at the ready.

"Sorry to keep you waiting, Juudaime."

"Gokudera-kun!"

"Octopus-head!"

"As he has arrived in time, we therefore recognize that he will be permitted to participate in the match," said the Cervello.

Ryohei and Basil shared their relief.

"You scared us there," Yamamoto laughed. "Did you oversleep?"

"Of course not!" Gokudera objected.

He felt a scrutinizing stare from the copy. She rotated around him, scanning him up and down like a barcode. He followed her with his eyes, getting annoyed. Then, she let out an impressive whistle. "Let me guess, you spent more time on choosing your outfit." She smirked. "Not bad for a bad boy look Bakadera."

"That wasn't it either you stupid woman!" his face reddened. He cleared his throat and faced Tsuna. "I'm sorry I'm late, Juudaime! It took a lot of time to prepare!"

"Oh, I see," said Tsuna with a small smile.

"He means his outfit."

"Tsukairi, leave the boy alone."

"Mou, you're no fun Aunt Rosemary…"

"Now I'm all ready!" said Gokudera.

"Okay…but," Tsuna scanned the rows of unit dynamite on his body, then back at the Varia opponent. Belphagor, Varia prodigy.

"I thought he turned tail and ran," Squalo said mockingly. Cielo blew a raspberry and huffed.

"I think he should have ran, though. I mean, his opponent is Bel afterall," the hooded baby said

'Tsuna. What do you know?'

'He's fighting the most talented member of the Varia…' he answered, his eyes dripping with concern. 'Will he make it?'

'He has to.' Tsuri looked behind her, setting all her hope into him with her gaze. Gokudera, like always, got ticked off at her staring, but after seeing how quiet she remained, he cocked his head to the side. Just what was she thinking in this moment?

The Cervello took the stage, explaining their replacement for the previous one that got shot down the night before, then about the storm match. The field was only the third floor of classes, and had a time limit of 15 minutes. They would have to adapt to the heavy current wind machines set up all over, and if they didnt make it, then it was a life or death exit.

"That's bad! Then...if the battle isn't settled, they'll both..." muttered Tsuna.

"They'll most likely die," said the first Cervello.

"That would mean that neither guardians are worthy of the Storm Ring as well.," said the other Cervello.

"But that's horrible!" said Tsuna.

"A death match, huh?" Gokudera's lips curled up into a smirk, like it was nothing new. "Sounds fun."

"That's rather flashy, don't you think?" a new voice entered the hallway, putting his hands on the Cervello's shoulders. "Anybody hurt?" Didn't; look like the girls appreciated their space being invaded because they gave the perverted doctor a good elbow to the face, sending him to the floor in pain.

"Ow, Ow, OW! That hurts!"

"S-SHAMAL?!" screeched Tsuna in surprise.

"Serves you right!" Tsuri shouted in disgust, not missing the sword freak's reaction from across their group.

"When will you stop being such an embarrassment?" She saw Rosemary out a hand to her face.

"When all the women in the world like you stop denying me Spada Stellare!"

"Did he just say Shamal?"

"Trident Shamal...a man who was scouted by the Varia two generations ago and refused."

'That hooded baby sure does know a lot of information on everyone.'

"What the hell are you doing here?" Gokudera demanded, not at all happy that his match was being held up by his dumbass tutor.

"I heard a loud noise, so I came to see if anybody was hurt.," said Shamal. "I also figured I would laugh at your little fight when you embarrass yourself like a dumbass in front of her." Tsuri sweat dropped at his head gesture toward her, not at all understanding.

Gokudera's eyebrow twitched. He hadn't even started yet and he was already ready to blow someone to bits.

"You being Varia material just doesn't sit right with me," Tsuri said as he purposely tripped the doctor with her foot to avoid having him leap on her. "What did they see in you?"

"Honestly," Cielo played with the same squeeze ball from yesterday. He opened his eyes, confused as to why he wa being glared at by Squalo and Bel. "What?" he shrugged. "The walking trauma didnt lie."

"Dino, Colonello, Solleano and Shamal...why are so many powerful figures gathering together? What the hell is going on? This cant be the Arcobaleno kid's doing, could it?"

"Either way, I'll be able to have some fun with my opponent tonight."

Tsuri's eyes turned into little dots. "… Does he role that way too? Like the glasses guy that hit on Ryohei-senpai?"

"Eh?" Ryohei perked up, lost. "He was hitting on me? What does that extremely mean?"

"This peasant girl spouting nonsense as always…" she heard Belphagor say, a frown on his lips.

'You need to lay off the BL. I told you to stop loaning them from our neighbor!'

'I was bored at home today! Leave me alone!'

Ryohei initiated their huddle once again. The bomber got embarrassed and tried to avoid it, but Tsuna knew he would somehow boost his morale a little so he urged him to. Tsuri saw the puppy ears and tail wagging as Gokudera went on a rant on Tsuna's dedication to the family and how it was an honor. With Lambo's ripped off tail, it was now complete. Tsuri found herself grinning.

"Gokudera fight! Yeah!"

"Man, kids can be so embarrassing," Shamal commented next to Basil and Reborn once the huddle broke up.

"Now, will both participants please come to the center."

"Juudaime…I'll put up a fight worthy of your right-hand man." Gokudera declared with resolve.

"Okay, be careful," Tsuna replied, his face not hiding his stress over letting Gokudera go. "But don't push yourself."

The silver-head nodded, and started walking to the front.

"Gokudera."

He turned. The copy had walked to meet him where he was. The expression she wore was also filled with concern, but also like she was trying her best to remain calm for his sake. Tsuri transmitted anxiety easily, but in her pupils he knew. What she was trying to convey, as strange as it was.

"You're smarter than anyone else in this room. Don't lose."

He took in her bandaged hands, remembering the dark tint in them. As if remembering something, he snorted, a genuine grin appearing in his features. He lifted a fist up to show her just how strong he was. "Like I would."

The free Cervello had guided them toward the spectating area where a TV, upper mic was on display. How in earth they found time to install all of it was beyond them. There were laser beams now in place as well, the Cervello mentioning Tsuri's and Tsuna's little stunt as the purposes for its usage.

As Gokudwra's retreating figure grew smaller, the Vongola Mezza replayed that smile of his again in her brain. She smiled slowly.

'Dummy. How overconfident can you get?'

As tempered as he was, he could also be reliable too.


...

...


It was appalling at how much skillful people the Varia had in their ranks. Who knew assassins were granted gifts from above, becoming geniuses in tearing humans to tatters. And when they were bored no less.

Belphagor's talent were knives. Silver, polished and refined daggers that floated scarily in mid-air. It wa alike a magic trick and would have kept the Vongola team with their mouths hung open, if it wasn't for Gokudera force bombing his ways out, battling with making sure he would t get his head skewered to the wall.

After seconds of panic, he regained composure and had unmasked the trick to it being visibly thin wire hooked on the ends of the prince's weapon and using the guided start he'd set up on Hokudera's shoulder before the match began.

Using his new rocket bombs and some other skills they hadn't seen until now, everyone had felt more sure that this match was theirs. But Gokudera had spilled Belphagors blood after another bombing and the assassin had turned loony, losing all sanity he had.

The silver head had led him to the library room, thinking he could outrun the freak by planting some dynamite but he had gotten trapped by some rapid set up of the wiring all over the shelves. One movement could have gone wrong, if it wasn't for Gokudera using his brain once more to show that he had spread gunpowder down to the ground, letting his lighter go and loosening the wires by bombing up the whole room.

Gokudera could hear the cheering through the speakers, and it made him proud, hearing his Juudaime praise him for a good job done. The prince was now rendered immobile and now he was able to grab the ring with no more difficulty.

He could hear the crackling of the spectator speaker turning on, making him jump. "What do you think of his skill Tsuri-chan~ have any thoughts?"

"Why are you asking me? Get off Shamal!"

"Oi, Hayato! You have your little darling here hanging with her mouth open! You've done well my boy!"

"Who's darling?" Ack. His Juudaime was pissed again.

"Will you please— Aunt Rosemary I swear I'll have another spasm of anger if he doesn't stop—"

"You're blushing~"

"I-I'm not! Reborn!"

"Your expressions are giving it all away Baka-Tsuri. If you don't control them, then it will be Tsuna's turn to unleash his dark side."

"O-Octopus head, grab the ring! I'm sensing danger here to the extreme!"

"I got it!" Gokudera yelled angrily at the command, humiliated at the fact that this whole conversation was being echoed through the whole hallway that their opponents heard it too.

He approached the unmoving body, ready to break the chain and claim the storm ring when suddenly, a hand shot up. They didn't know whether it was just instinct at this point fueling his need to win, but the Varia prince's hold on Gokudera's own necklace had turned into a wrestling match. Gokudera was pushed to the ground, having a hard time letting go and keeping his hold on the other piece of jewelry.

"Shit! I don't have any more strength to fight him off!"

"It's about time."

"You're correct." The Cervello women's voices entered the channel. "The fifteen minutes have expired. The detonations have begun."

Tsuri and the rest could hear the loud repeating alarms of warning the bombs shot out before feeling the violent earthquake of its rupture.

Now was the time to let anxiety take over.

"Gokudera-kun!" Tsuna shouted frantically.

"There will now be a 45 second interval before all bombs detonate."

"This isn't happening…" Tsuri's lips trembled. She gripped her hands to keep the sizzling heat from rising out of her.

"Win... or die, eh? Awesome!" Squalo's voice said.

"Tsuna, what will you do?" Reborn asked.

"Huh? What do you mean?"

"No choice." Shamal answered before Tsuna received his reply. "Give the ring to the enemy and get out of there, Hayato!"

"WHAT? DONT GIVE ME THAT!" Gokudera shouted in response to the ridiculous notion.

"It's stupid to die over something like this. Come back!" The doctor shot back.

"What are you saying! You want me to purposely lose?!" The silver head's tone was getting inscreasingly agitated. "One win and three defeats would mean we've lost! It'll be over for us!" 'I can't let her fight…!'

"Your opponents sense of self is practically broken! It's not even a fight anymore! Get back here!"

"I can't return empty handed! If I go back now then I couldn't call myself Vongola Tenth and Mezza's right hand man!"

Both twins reacted in shock by the words that came out of his mouth. Tsuri's especially since she had to cover her mouth with her hands. Did… did he just say Mezza? Not just Tsuna? Her chest quickened automatically and Tsuri found herself wishing her heart would settle but it wasn't so easy to do.

"Gokudera-kun that's…" Tsuna trailed off, caught off guard by his friends statement.

"Juudaime, if I win the tide will turn! It will prevent Tsuri from fighting later on and keep her safe!"

Tsuri noticed Tsuna's hands balling up into fists, his whole body starting to shake. His normally soft eyes were hardening and she could feel the radiating anger Gokudera's words were provoking.

"Trust me. I can do this!"

"Gokudera!" It was Tamamoto's turn to shout.

"Get back here Tako-head!" Ryohei broke his silence as well.

The fifth wind machine had blown up. The pressure was rising at a quick pace and Tsuri didn't know what to do. It was Tsuna's lead here , not hers. But what could she tell him that could let him speak up? It took a lot to get a rise from Tsuna so seriously. What could she say?

'Tsuna, say something or he won't make it! You have to speak up!'

"Twenty seconds until the library explodes."

"Hayato, have you forgotten what I taught you at the start of your training?"

Gokudera let out a grunt. Like hell he'd forget. It was the same day that the twins had helped him out of his death hole. The same one where Tsuri had pointed it out to him with an honest scolding. The value his life held. But he'd gladly use it if it would help Juudaime… help Tsuri avoid all of what this fighting brought for them.

"I won't leave this place, even if I die!"

"Cut the crap!" Tsuna roared in a fit of loose rage, his breathing ragged and uneven.

The impact sent chills down Tsuri's spine, causing her to back away next to Yamamoto. He and the rest met her eyes, like they were seeing a small preview into the other twins' reflecting anger. Tsuri's was scary, but Tsuna, who rarely showed it, was amazingly even more terrifying.

"What do you think we are fighting for?! We've gotta have a snowball fight together again... We've gotta watch fireworks...that's why we're fighting. That's why you and all of us are growing stronger! I want to laugh and have fun with everyone again! If you die, that's meaningless!"

"Juudaime…"

Their first friend. Tsuna's first official friend. He held him close to his heart like no one else in the room, except his blood relative. Gokudera, as needy, as clingy as he was to Tsuna, he was treasured so much by him. And to see him throw his life away when it had so much more meaning to it…

'You need to say something too.'

Her eyes widened. 'Why me!?'

'Your words hold an extra power than mine can't reach.'

"Tsuna may be the center of his world, but you have a part of it. He just hasn't realized it yet. "

Tsuri took a breath of air. She was muddled, confused, concerned, so many emotions swirling that could make her have another episode again. But she wasn't going to let herself. She made a promise to Bianchi, and to herself that she wasn't going to let anything happen to Gokudera Hayato. For his big sister, and for herself. She wanted to see if she did have an effect on the silver-head like they said.

"I'm just as reckless…" Gokudera could hear Tsuri's voice quiver behind the mic. "I'm just as careless with myself, like you. I understand you, and you me. You've seen me. You know that side of me so much better than anyone in this room. But I swear to god if you give up your life for us like this Gokudera Hayato and you die, I'll make sure you never get close to me in another life!"

Gokudera froze again. There it was. That pull, somewhere deep inside his chest that longed for that call. How strange it was… He hadn't been able to gather his wits and in that small second, the library exploded. Static filled the television and Smoke filled the area as we all went silent in horror and everyone became silent. Too horrified to speak or utter a single sound.

"Gokudera-kun? Gokudera-kun!"

"Gokudera!" Yamamoto and Tsuri shouted in unison.

"That idiot…" Shamal lowered his head in lament.

Basil shut his eyes and Ryohei let out a pained cry.

Tsuna collapsed to his knees first. Yamamoto had to hold Tsuri's shoulders to keep her from hitting the ground.

"It's not true… it can't be true…" she heard Tsuna's shaken voice say. "It can't… why, Gokudera-kun?"

She didn't know whether to cry or to shout or to be angry. It was all stuck inside her throat like a swallowed ball, unable to travel down. It felt like someone had torn out her heart and smashed it under their pretty little foot. It ached. It hurt.

Reborn was the first to break the silence. "Look over there!"

The smoke was heavy and grey, and didn't give a chance to even make out anything beyond it. But then, a familiar figure emerged from it, grunting in pain.

The red visible sensors were now off. Tsuna and Tsuri's internal collapse came to a halt when they made out the silver-head's battered body coming toward them in little steps.

The selected guardians, except Tsuri, Rosemary, Shamal and Reborn ran to him like the flash and surrounded him in a circle. Gokudera let himself go and hit the ground with a harsh thud. Tsuna was the only one who bent down to the floor to get a closer look at his friend, making sure it was real and that he had really was physically present. "I'm sorry Juudaime. I told you I'd return with the ring but… I came back to see the fireworks."

"I'm glad Gokudera-kun," Tsuna did not hide the happiness in his whole face. "I really am."

"B-But I lost!"

"Thank you Gokudera-kun" said Tsuna with a smile.

"Please don't say that! I don't deserve it!"He sat up, covering his face with his arm.

"That Gokudera. He escaped with his life," Reborn commented. Shamal nodded proudly.

"Yeah. He sure natured at the end there. Im not so conceited that I'd take the credit for that. The Vongola kid won this round."

The baby and the doctor followed the other girl's movements, slowly approaching the group.

"She really does have a hold on his heart doesn't she?" Rosemary asked the hitman lowly.

Reborn smirked. "She really does. Has he realized it yet?" The other two turned to the doctor since he knew him more.

"He's clueless," Shamal shrugged. "But after this, I'm sure he will."

"You little…"

The boys parted the circle to let Tsuri through. Her shoulders were shaking, her bandaged hands in fists. No one could get a clear shot of her face since her bangs weren't shielding them away.

Gokudera thought he would receive a good soccer kick to his head that would leave him K.O-ed for a week. He could have taken it.

He didn't expect her to throw herself right to the ground instead and be taken into a tight embrace. Her arms wrapped around his chest like a lifeline, and he could feel the vibrations of her sobs and the goosebumps that her soft hair sent through his skin. He held out his arms, stiff as a board, unsure what to do, body temperature rising like a boiling pot of hot water. And with Tsuna's whole body emitting a black and deadly aura, he was sure his sparred life would not be safe anymore.

"Dame-Tsuna, let it go. Let her have this moment."

'She's too close. I should pull her away. That is forbidden to do. Too close. Too close.'

"Don't you ever do something like that you hear me!? I'll drag you back from heaven or hell, wherever the hell you'll be and beat your soul so back and blue you'll be wishing you were spared by my hands!"

Gokudera had no choice but to accept the hug. To have Tsuri so close to him for the first time. He closed his arms around her. He never felt just how small she was, and how she fit right into him like she'd been meant to. Her hair tickled against his nose when she buried it in the crook of his neck. 'She's crying' the words kept repeating over and over in Gokudera's mind. He was so sure he could hear his heart beating in his ears and prayed to whatever entity that existed up in the sky that Tsuri didn't hear it.

His body sizzled at her touch. The sensation felt good, like a warm shower on a cold day or the gentle rays of spring sunlight after a thunderstorm. He was conflicted, unsure as to what emotions this was stirring inside him. They weren't the ones he normally felt. Was he happy he came back? Was he relived that she hadn't reacted so horribly to him coming back? What was this tingly feeling of inexplicable desire and longing that made his stomach flip inside out? Juudaime never made him feel this way.

She then let go and started beating him up with that freakish strength of hers on said chest, ranting on and on about how worried they all were and how reckless he'd been and how thankful she was that he was safe and sound and even though it hurt, and he was sore, and in a lot of pain…

Gokudera found himself missing her touch. He swallowed heavily. This girl…she gave off the most bizarre sense of fuzziness, which he hadn't felt since forever. Something was wrong. No, not wrong exactly, just off. Something felt wrong about this. Like something was missing from their usual dynamic. 'It's just my imagination, that's all!' he told himself, but deep down, he knew better. Something was different and Gokudera couldn't pinpoint what it was.

"O-Oi," he heard himself stutter, frazzled at the closeness. "I'm in pain. Everything hurts you s-stupid woman."

"Oh." Tsuri paused her actions halfway, then noticing the close proximity they were in. She quickly pushed him off like the plague and got up, face heated up like a volcano. In all her years she had never reacted like that toward anyone. Tsuna, maybe once in a blue moon when he wasn't being an idiot when walking down the busy streets. This was entirely new.

She held her burning cheeks, worried they'd give off another message to an already murderous Tsuna and friends.

"Hahaha good for you Gokudera! Tsuri cares so much for you!"

"S-Shut up baseball nut!" He snapped, easing himself with the help of Ryohei and Basil. He gripped the rain guardian's shirt harshly, letting Tsuna exit his brotherly instincts momentary . Maybe without meaning to. "Yamamoto. I'm leaving the rest to you."

"?" Yamamoto was taken off guard by such a request. He could see a tick mark in Gokudera's temple throbbing. "It's not like I want to ask you! You of all people…"

'You can succeed in protecting Tsuri too.'

Yamamoto blinked. The a line curved up into that famous grin he was known for. "I got it."

"The ring is in Belphegor's hands. He is therefore the winner of this match," The Cervello came back, everyone present on opposite sides of the hallway again.

"VOI! What a hilarious ending!" yelled Squalo. "Your lives are good as blown now."

"Not only that, your guardians of the Mist and Cloud haven't appeared yet, have they?" Mammon asked with fake concern. "I sure hope you won't be disqualified."

'Yeah, I wonder when Hibari-san and the Mist guy will show up' Tsuna said. Tsuri heard and faced him, then at Squalo.

"We will now announce the next match card," said Cervello.

"What do we do Reborn? If they choose Mist or Cloud…"

"No big deal, don't worry about it. They'll be here."

"You can't just say that!"

"Tomorrow's night match will feature…Rain."

"Oh come onnnnnn!" Cielo complained from the sideline with a leg stomp. "Why is this shitty girly haired shark bait next! I wanted to be next!"

Tsuna sighed in relief, knowing that there would still be time enough for him to succeed in aiding Tsuri and waiting for the other two guardians to reveal themselves.

"Yes! I've been waiting for this moment! Finally, I can kick some butt!" Squalo said excitedly. "Better not run off because of how I wiped the floor with you last time, katana brat."

"Hahaha! No need to worry about that. I'll be so excited that I won't get enough sleep,"Yamamoto replied, not letting Squalo shake his nerves.

"Little brat... cocky much?"

Squalo directed his attention to the squirming boy being held by his collar by Gola Mosca, throwing a tantrum on how unfair it was that Squalo got to go first.

Suddenly, a random black cloaked guy popped up beside them. It was one of Levi's lightning goons.

"Captain Levi, someone had infiltrated the school. The Lightning Strike Squad's being taken out one by one!"

"What?" exclaimed Levi.

Reborn smiled. "See, Told you so. Your Guardians will show up."

The boy with baby blue highlights crackled up childishly, pointing at Levi. "You dumbass! Your squad sucks! I can't believe they even call you captain! Bahahaha!"

"You broke Cielo, Squalo. Xanxux isn't going to be happy when we head back."

"VOIIIII SHITTY TRASH SHUT THE FUCK UP AND PULL IT TOGETHER!"

"Who is it? Damn it. Don't let him escape with his life. At this rate, we won't be able to face the boss!" Levi ordered.

"There's only one person who'd bust himself in with a dramatic entrance," Tsuri paled, hiding behind Yamamoto.

"So it is him." Tsuna looked down at Reborn.

"Yeah, he's finished training."

The same person who had left seconds ago came back, only sent flying harshly, landing down badly. The newcomer, tonfas, uniform and his famous band pinned on his arm.

"See? Dramatic entrance," Tsuri said. "Oh shit. He's come back to kill me for neglecting my job! I need to hide!"

"Hibari-san! Hibari-san came!" Tsuna smiled widely. "He's come to help us in the battle of the rings! Plus, he's totally strong!"

"Trespassing on school grounds…" Hibari ignored the herbivore, menacing aura radiating from him like the usual. "Damaging school property…"

The twins squeaked when he directed his gaze back to them. "You're all collectively responsible. I'll bite every person in this room to death."

'He's just mad about the school getting wrecked!'

'No shit!'

"Are you a ring holder of Sawada's side? Then we can't have you-" started the Cervello but she was pushed away by Levi.

"It's okay. He's only an intruder," said Levi.

Levi then charged towards Hibari. Hibari stared at him before side-stepping and tripping Levi's feet. Levi fell down onto the ground with a thud.

Cielo's laughing got worse. Mammon took out a piece of tape from who knew where and plastered it on the brat's mouth.

Hibari was set on wrecking violence amongst everyone. None would be spared. He didn't care for rules right now too. He did what he wanted and it would put them in deep hot water if they let him.

Squalo took the bait and challenged Hibari and that was something they could not let happen whatsoever.

"What should we do!" wailed Tsuna in horror.

Yamamoto patted Tsuri's shoulder, and was the first to try and do something. Yamamoto was refreshing and was a calm source, but to hell if he had that same effect on Hibari Kyoya.

"Yamamoto what are you doing!" Tsuri held out a hand in alarm. "Get back here!"

"Come on, Hibari. Calm down, Hibari. I know you're angry."

Yamamoto smiled but she could tell he was sweating in his boots at how near he was. Hibari lunged with a tonfa

"Move. Don't get in my way."

In one swift movement with his feet, Tsuri could see a shift in his movement and in a blink, he was behind the tonfa boy, holding the one that should have it him in the palm of his hand.. Her eyes bulged out, suddenly sparkling. What was that! That was so cool!

"The long haired guy is my opponent. Bear with me."

If black could get any darker… Hibari surely emitted it. "Anyone who gets in my way… will be bitten to death!"

"Shit. I've pissed him off."

"Hibari-san!" Tsuri called out, her hands moving in all directions. "Hibari-san, come on! I'll give you a good spar later, huh? How's that! Just step away… Yamamoto get the hell out of there!"

"Don't go offering yourself up as a punching bag too!" Tsuna reprimanded. "Hibari-san hold on please!"

Reborn stepped up to the plate. How the hell had he teleported so quickly!?

"Ciaossu Hibari."

"The baby? Sorry but I'm busy right now."

"You're free to let loose here, but you'll miss out on something much more entertaining."

That caught the disciplinary committee head's attention fast, and lowered his weapons. "Like what?"

"It won't be immediately. But if you suck it up and fight in the battle for the rings, you may get to fight Rokudo Mukuro again in the near future."

Tsuri choked on the air and started coughing. It took Rosemary and Basil to pat her on the back to make sure she was still breathing.

'WHAT THE HELL IS REBORN DOING SPEWING BULLSHIT LIKE THAT!'

"Heh… really?" Hibari knew from the smirk on Reborn's lips that it wasn't a lie. "Repair the damage to the school building."

The Cervello he talked to nodded. "Of course. We Cervello shall take full responsibility."

He walked by Yamamoto next. "I've changed my mind. not lose to that man before i get a chance to end you."

"And you."

Tsuri squawked. Not good.

"You better resume your duties by tomorrow before I decide to take it out on you too."

"Y-Yes Hibari-san!"

Hibari had no more qualms and left.

"Hibari-san backed down…" Tsuna gaped.

"That just shows how humiliated he was by Mukuro."

"Besides the point! Why are you going on just saying something like that with no care in the world!" Tsuri stormed by, huffing.

"She's right! Should you really be making a promise like that!?"

"Beats me."

"What do you mean by that!?"

Thus the storm battle ended. Yamamoto's was next.

Surely everything would be fine, right?

Not for the person up on Namimori's roof, who'd been watching everything. And he meant everything. If he had his body physically present he would have snatched, broken a couple bones and sprinkled death over.

Gokudera Hayato would be the first on his list to face gruesome death if he didnt keep his hands off of what wasn't his.

Tsukairi was going to need more visits to get her to start getting the idea that she was no longer in the market for others to take. Mukuro would make sure of that.