Silver and Gold
By: Quicksilver the Archangel
Disclaimer: I, quite obviously, do not own any of the characters in Yami no Matsuei.
Warning: This fanfiction will probably use foul language, blood, violence, and shonen-ai. Pairings will be TsuzukixHisoka and MurakixTsuzuki. However, these pairings are not the main focus of the story.
Author's Note: This story is in first person, switching between the characters. I will try my best to make the changes of POV obvious. Events take place after Episode 13 of the anime; I have not, unfortunately, read all of the manga, so I may be screwing up with a set story line from there. As the title implies, Watari and Muraki have the major roles in this story, though the other main characters will be involved. Please bear with me. Finally... all responses are appreciated. This is my very first Yami no Matusei story, and I've spent quite a bit of time coming up with the concept. I only hope I have the writing skills to master it. Helpful comments are encouraged; pointless flames will be ignored.
' indicates thoughts
//\\ indicates character whose POV the story is from at the time
//Watari\\
"Oi... Watari, are you sure this is the way?"
Normally, having someone doubt me like this would upset me. However, as I know only too well, Tsuzuki is not a normal person. Knowing him, he would be questioning me even if he knew I was the only one who knew the way to a secret cave far beneath the sea. Something about him makes him unable to tolerate things in silence; I suppose it is just his way of keeping his nerves from getting too jittery. I turn to my good friend, giving him a smile, "Now, now Tsuzuki... don't you think it's rather rude to be questioning your guide?"
"But I'm hungry; you dragged us out here without time to even grab lunch!"
Ah, so THAT is what's the matter with him! Poor Tsuzuki, even I know better than to keep him from his three square meals a day, all of which, I may add, have ample portions of dessert thrown into them. Of course, if one begins to calculate all of the sugar intake that he gains from his many sugary snacks, it's no surprise that he cannot tolerate to stand still for any long period of time.
I bite the corner of my cheek to keep from laughing as Hisoka scolds his partner, "Shut up, will you? All you ever think about is your stomach! Don't you think this case is a LITTLE more important?"
"But Hisoka..."
"Don't you BUT me!"
As they break off into one of their arguments, I take the opportunity to study them both. Really, every time I think about it, I can see why people think they would never get along. Everything about the two of them is different.
Take Tsuzuki. A tall, beautiful man with chocolate brown hair and amethyst eyes, it is easy enough to see why everyone who meets him is immediately stunned. Then, their attraction becomes doubled once they begin to spend time with him. Despite his own pains and anxieties, he puts on a perpetual cheer that few can strip from him. His deep, rich voice calms you and forces you to trust him; his kindness seems without end. You feel almost immediately that you can place your life in his hands without fear. He may seem goofy, but anyone who knows him as well I can see right past that illusion. He takes his job and power quite seriously, a bit too seriously at times, in my opinion.
Yet, as important as his duties are to Tsuzuki, Hisoka beats him when it comes to being serious. Actually, to tell the truth, it's rare to find a time when the boy DOESN'T seem serious. Hisoka's emerald green eyes and light brown hair make him just as attractive as Tsuzuki, but his cold, aloof manner keep people at a distance. Not that I blame him. If I were an empath, I suspect I would hide my thoughts and feelings from the world as well, if only for my own peace of mind.
Still, even with all these differences, I must confess that these two form one of the best partnerships I have seen in my time as a shinigami. My scientific mind forces me to acknowledge that opposites attract; this is quite obviously the case with my two friends. Tsuzuki's pure, kind nature has been the only solace for Hisoka's damaged psyche, and Hisoka's presence has affected Tsuzuki in ways I do not think he truly understands. Both have been responsible for saving the lives of the other, and even I can see the love shining in their eyes as they falsely fight before me.
I feel the faint sting of envy strike me, but I ignore it. Tsuzuki is one of my best friends, and Hisoka is becoming more and more a friend every day. I should be happy that these two have found each other, whether or not they realize it. Still, I cannot help but wish that I had such a good companion, someone I could love and could love me in return. I wish that I did not always find myself so alone...
003's gentle coo in my ear makes me smile, and I scratch his head, 'I almost forgot about you, oldest friend. You are my constant companion; you will never leave me, right?' Although my owl friend cannot hear my thoughts, his large eyes close in pleasure from the scratching, and that is enough to make me cheer up again.
Well, as cheerful as you can get when you're out looking for a murderer. Quite a bloody affair, this current case. So far three victims had been discovered, all innocents who may simply have been in the wrong place at the wrong time. The throats had been slashed, a quick, painless death, but also a messy one. The bodies had been left untouched, except for one strange detail. The right eye of each individual was missing.
When I had told this detail to Tsuzuki and Hisoka, they had been understandably sickened. Yet, their revulsion went deeper then the case itself, and I knew all too well the reason why.
All three of us feared we knew the murderer; all three of us shuddered at the thought of who the man could be, must be. All three of us were afraid to voice our suspicion.
Yet, as much as we loathed the thought, we had to accept it. There was only one man we all knew who could commit such crimes without being caught or seen, only one man who would all but invite the shinigami to him with calling cards of death and blood. There was only one man who would desire such a thing.
'Muraki...'
//Tsuzuki\\
'Muraki...'
The mere thought of this man makes my blood burn with anger. Too much has happened at his hands for me to forgive him. Too many people have been hurt in his sickening attempts to capture me. The poor dead singer Maria Wong, forced back to life in order to sing for her mother's profit and Muraki's twisted plots. The use of the Camilla, a pleasure boat, to bring about the death of others. All the victims killed to further the research of Professor Satomi, his mentor.
This does not even include our current case, though there is no doubt in my mind that he is responsible.
Yet, these are simply his most recent victims. I do not have to look far to find another...
If Hisoka knew my thoughts, he would tell me that none of it is my fault. And, as usual, he would be right. Yet, when I look to my partner, I can see the scars he stills bears from his death. No, death is too polite a term for what happened to him; torture may be better.
Every time I think of how Muraki cursed him, used him, my anger doubles. In my mind's eye, I can see Muraki's pale hands gliding over Hisoka's body, and Hisoka's harsh cries of pain...
I am no longer surprised by the rage and faint jealousy I have when I force myself to think of that morbid event. I have admitted to myself the true feelings I have for Hisoka, even though I can never tell how he feels about me. I have my suspicions of course, given to me by the boy himself. Especially when he called me back from certain death...
"Tsuzuki? I hate to shake you from your thoughts, but is it not traditional for the one showing the way to be in front of the one following?"
Watari's amused voice forces me from my reverie, and with a few startled blinks, I realize that I have indeed taken the lead from him. Giving him an apologetic smile, I receive one of his own sweet grins in return, while Hisoka merely gives a small sigh, "Daydreaming slacker..."
Once, when he said such things of me, it had hurt. Then, I began to realize that his was his form of teasing, so I merely smile at him too, taking my place by his side, as our fellow shinigami begins to guide us once more.
Even as he does so, I am forced to wonder once again why it is that Watari is here with us. These crimes had not taken place in his district, as had happened once before. The scientist had not given us a clear explanation as to why he would guide us; he had simply taken the map from Tatsumi and declared he was coming.
I wish I knew what Watari was thinking. The happiness he always seems to show worries me often; I have more than once considered asking Hisoka to read his thoughts and emotions, if for no other reason than to understand my friend just a tiny bit better.
However, I know I would never truly do such a thing. I respect Watari too much for such an invasion; I love Hisoka too much to ask him to use his powers so flippantly.
Still, there is nothing to stop me from questioning him, right? Nothing except my own respect to keep his own secrets. I will not pester him; God knows we all have things we hide from others.
I take a glance towards Hisoka out of the corner of my eyes, smiling to see that he occasionally looks towards me as we walk. Yes, I think eventually we will both be able to be perfectly open with one another about our feelings. Until then, I will never state mine aloud. Let me have my secret too...
"Just what are you grinning about, Tsuzuki?"
My grin widening, I try not chuckle at Hisoka's raised eyebrow, "Oh, nothing... just thinking about the first day we met. How you almost shot me thinking I was a vampire, how you dared to try and steal my food, how you got drunk... the way I couldn't get any sleep because I had to tuck you into bed..."
A red blush spreads madly over his fine features, and he practically bites my head off, verbally if not physically, "Shut up! Why do you always make it sound so DIRTY?!"
"What? Me make something sound dirty?" I flutter my eyes, rather enjoying baiting him. "Is it my fault your thoughts drift down the gutter just because I was the one to put you to bed and comment how cute you were?"
"Oi oi... something tells me I am about to be in the middle of a lover's spat..."
//Hisoka\\
"LOVER'S SPAT?!"
The words burst forth from my mouth before I can stop them, and I clamp my hands over my mouth immediately. I can feel my face burning as I blush; I am probably as red as a beet.
Tsuzuki seems as shocked at Watari's words as I, and it gives me faint pleasure to see that he is blushing as well. That should teach him to bring up such embarrassing topics. Rare to see him so embarrassed though; I confess to myself that it is sort of nice. It makes him look even more beautiful than he is naturally...
'What on earth am I THINKING?!' I cannot BELIEVE I just thought that about Tsuzuki. Men are not supposed to think other men beautiful!
Yet, every time I think of my partner that is the only word I can think to describe him: beautiful. It makes me wonder why every time I see him my heart begins to beat just a bit faster, I seem to feel a little bit better.
Then, my own words echo in my mind as I remember how I begged him not to die, to live, if only for me. Surely it was not possible that I was falling in love with Tsuzuki?
I am hardly the best person to analyze my own feelings, and I am certain that this moment is not the best time to do so. Perhaps later, whenever I am alone and have time to think. Not now when I am on duty.
Watari merely smiles at us both, as if oblivious to our embarrassment, and he wags his finger, "Now, I do not want to have to play counselor to you both, but this is neither the time nor the place to start having one of your little fights. Tsuzuki, if you want my advice, take Hisoka here out to a nice dinner, embarrass him there, maybe get him drunk again and THEN start talking about your feelings. Hisoka... I don't know what to tell but to watch out for the sly devil."
I feel my face redden as 003 mimics his owner's actions, but it is worth it to see that Tsuzuki's mouth is wide open and slack jawed, "You really ARE cruel, aren't you?!"
Giving a toss of his hair and a shrug of his shoulders, the scientist only laughs, "I've been around Tatsumi too long; that's what you get for always leaving me behind."
Something about those words make me stare at him; I do not even have to use my empathic powers to see that there is some emotion hidden in them, "What do you mean?"
He seems startled by the question, pushing his glasses up as he turns away, "Just... I am so often left behind that, the last time I had to come to do field work with the two of you... I nearly lost you both. I stood by while Tsuzuki tried to kill himself, and I still did nothing, not even when you put yourself in danger along with him, Hisoka. I cannot forgive myself... for that weakness."
Even as he speaks, I know this; sorrow and guilt radiate from him like light from a star. This admission surprises not only himself, but Tsuzuki as well, and my partner begins to speak, "Watari..."
Grasping his arm, I gently send a tendril of thought towards him, 'Don't, Tsuzuki... anything you say right now can only make him feel worse...'
'Hisoka! You don't KNOW that! I can't just stand here and let him think I blame him for what he has done!'
'I am telling you to let it lie for a bit; whenever we are done investigating this case, talk to him. But not before; give him time to search his own feelings.' With that bit of advice I release the contact, and the link. I glance towards Watari to see if he suspects our mental discussion of him, but he merely hums a happy diddy softly to himself. I cannot lie; this relieves me immensely.
Suddenly, he stops, folding his map and placing it securely in the beak of 003, "According to Tatsumi's information, this is the place the body of the last victim was found. I suppose you can get a reading from here, Hisoka?"
Glancing at the blood that still stains the pavement, I nod, "Yes. From this, I should be able to see what it was that the victim saw."
Tsuzuki's words are harsh and cold, things I so very rarely hear from him, "Then we will truly know... whether or not Muraki is gone."
"Will this give you peace, Tsuzuki?"
Turning to face me, his purple eyes devoid of the kindness and love that I have come to cherish within him, "I would that he did not return to haunt us again.
Taken a back, but careful not to show it, I only nod, "This should not take very long..."
"Be careful, Hisoka."
It seems strange to me that Watari should say these words and not Tsuzuki; then again, as I think about it, Watari has only ever seen my power harming me. He has never witnessed the way I use them to better complete my mission.
I kneel, reaching hesitantly towards the darkest stain. I truly do not know how this will affect me, though I have no informed either Watari or Tsuzuki of the fact. I know that I should be able to see the victim, to see what he or she saw, but would I experience their death as well? It is not certain; nothing about this power of mine is ever certain.
Taking a deep breath to steady myself, I touch the stain, allowing the familiar sensations of looking into another's memories take me away from the present time.
//Muraki\\
It often amazes me how easy it is to peer inside the human soul. For all of our supposed intelligence and superiority, we truly are no better than the animals we are supposed to rule over. In some ways we are so much weaker...
A lion does not weep over the fate of the lamb, nor does the spider apologize to the fly caught in its intricate web. Our bestial companions know that in order to get what they wish, indeed, in order to survive, they must be ruthless, cunning, and heartless. They must strike with speed and determination, killing their prey and their enemies with the same moral calm. This is the only way to maintain their existence.
Yet, we humans fail to take the lessons from these creatures. Perhaps we feel it is beneath us to learn from a creature without as much intelligence or skill. Yet, if only we did, we would be better off for it. Instead we allow our weak hearts, our puny souls to rule our lives. So few of us have the stomach to do what these animals realize must be done. So few can kill, so few can remain aloof and uncaring. So few can play the game of life with a skillful hand.
I myself could once take great pride at being one of those happy few, but no longer. My one goal in life was to slay my brother, the one who had caused me so much pain. I was ready to do whatever needed to be done, kill whomever needed to be killed. I dedicated my life to revenge, my life of darkness, and I was glad.
This predatory life seemed made for me. I delighted in the blood I wallowed in, the blood that never ceased flowing. Shivers of pleasure ran down my spine at the feelings of power I experienced with each kill. Nothing could stop me! Nothing!
Or so I thought. Then, suddenly, I found something that could. Never in my wildest dreams did I imagine it could happen, that I would succumb to the weaknesses of my human heart.
But someone cast their spell upon me, someone with amethyst eyes that pierced my very soul, "Tsuzuki..."
True, I had become interested in the shinigami because I thought I could use him to slake my thirst for revenge. Yet, when I laid eyes upon him, another thirst became rampant within me. I wanted to touch him, to hold him, to possess him... all the victims I killed still had their uses, but more important to me was the fact that soon I would be able to see my love again. Each drop of blood spilled brings him closer; every victim's scream calls to him.
I told myself it was not so; I willed myself to believe it. But I have never been, nor am I now, a man to deceive myself. Desire is not the word to use for what I feel for Tsuzuki; I positively lust after him.
Yet, I still need him for my revenge, to attempt to bring Saki back. So I continue to send him my bloody invitations, knowing that the victims will bring him to me time and time again, even if everything else would fail.
As I watch from the shadows, it would appear that once again I have been successful in luring him to me. How angry he looks as he says something to that boy partner of his...
I sneak a bit closer, in order to catch the words. Yes, as I thought, they are discussing me. Really, I cannot imagine why they would not be certain that I live; how can I die without my revenge? How I could die without ever tasting Tsuzuki to his fullest? Oh no... I have reasons to live, reasons more powerful than the seductive hands of death.
Closer examination of the group reveals an additional member, other than my beloved and his partner, and I raise an eyebrow. I have seen this man with them before, the one of the long golden hair and equally golden eyes, yet I still have no true idea of who he is. I know he is a shinigami like the two others; that is sufficient information for the time being.
Seeing the boy reach towards one of the stains left behind by the victim's blood, I smirk. So he is willing to risk an emotional and mental torture simply for the chance that I MIGHT be dead and he is chasing some other criminal? How pathetic... yet how deliciously sweet...
Almost immediately after touching the stain, the boy gives a gasp, his green eyes widening in a mixture of shock and horror. It delights me to no end, I must admit, for it awakens memories within me of another time, when I possessed him, and those same luminous eyes were so full of pain inflicted by my own hand.
Tsuzuki speaks first, amazingly gentle for all the barely contained emotions displayed in his posture, "What do you see Hisoka?"
"The... victim. She was so young, barely a teenager. Her mother... her mother asked her to go to the store to pick up a cake for her younger sister's surprise birthday party," Hisoka chokes out, tears forming in the edges of his eyes. "She picked up the cake... but on the way home she... s-she..."
"Yes? What is it Hisoka?! Tell us!"
At my love's commanding tone, the man beside him turns to him with worried eyes, "Tsuzuki... this is hard for him. Don't try to push him beyond his limits..."
"Muraki... he plunged the knife into her from behind." The boy's voice becomes softer as he continues, and I feel myself begin to feel the delightful tingles spread throughout my body as I remember the event. "T-the eye... he cut out the eye while she was still alive..."
"Oh my god... the sick BASTARD!" Apparently I have angered the man I do not know, as he curls his hands into fists, the owl companion on his shoulder puffing it's feathers out to match his mood. "Is it not enough to take their lives? Must he torture them as well?!"
"Watari... Watari, I think something is wrong. If Hisoka has seen this much... why is he still locked in the trance like that?" Tsuzuki asks, ignoring the outburst as he kneels next to his partner. "Watari... look at his eyes!"
I do believe we both look at the same time; indeed, the boy's eyes have become glazed, his breathing heavy and irregular. Tsuzuki kneels next to him, his voice rising slightly in panic, "Hisoka? HISOKA?!"
The boy shudders, "Cold... so cold... life... bleeding away, so slowly... and he's LAUGHING! HE THINKS IT'S FUNNY!"
Giving a low chuckle, I watch with joy. Indeed, I do find the deaths of others amusing, but I find them cringing in pain doubly so. The sight of Hisoka so tormented fills me with extreme pleasure.
Watari studies him, his voice grave, "I think he's trapped in his vision, Tsuzuki. Break his contact with the stain."
"What will that do to him? What if it hurts him MORE?!" Tsuzuki rages, his purple eyes blazing. "I won't risk that!"
From what I know of this Watari's character so far, I expect him to back down at my love's obvious mixture of anger and fear. However, he surprises me, his voice becoming as passionless as steel, "Tsuzuki, if you do not then he will die. He is being pulled into the victim's death. Now, either put your terror behind you to save the man you love, or get the hell out of the way so I can!"
I raise an eyebrow at Tsuzuki's shocked expression. Obviously this is truly a new experience for him as well, and I begin to study the blonde companion further. He seems a scientist, nothing extraordinary. He looks to be a follower, not a leader; yet, my beloved begins to do as he asks, grasping his partner's hand.
The effects of the broken contact are not immediate; if anything, they do appear to get worse. The boy's emerald eyes fill with tears as he begins to pant and sweat, clutching Tsuzuki's hand.
Although no words are spoken, Tsuzuki suddenly scoops the boy into his arms, holding him close to his chest, almost as though he had been asked to. Then again, the boy could do such a thing with his powers.
The raw embrace sends a flash of fury and jealousy across my vision. Why? Why does Tsuzuki feel so deeply for this boy?! Beautiful, yes he is beautiful I admit, but surely not any more so than I? His emotions and thoughts are no better than my own; they are just as twisted and strange.
Seeing how the man of my heart strokes his hair so gently, whispering into his ears causes me to shake with rage, and I whisper aloud, "No, my beautiful china doll... I will not let some boy take you away from me..."
I must have Tsuzuki. There is no question of it. Yet, I will not fully possess him so long as Hisoka lives. I will not be able to obtain him; I will not be able to love him. My path is clear. I begin the incantation.
"Demon of the blackest hell; come to me and serve me well. I charge you to destroy the helpless and weak; I call you to devour the ones you seek. Drink your fill of their blood so fresh; eat your fill of their newly dead flesh. Leave none alive but the one I need; the others you may consume with your greed..."
I feel my mechanical eye begin to flow with power; I bite my tongue until my own blood gathers in my mouth. I spit this to the ground, completing the summoning, "With this sacrifice your services I claim; I of the blood and the keeper of your name. Oni, come forth to me if you dare, and darken the sky with harsh despair."
Almost immediately I am rewarded with thick, black clouds gathering in the sky; the bright flashes of lightening and rolling thunder are matched with fast winds.
I give a sickly smile, knowing my face at this moment is once again the cold predator I strive to be. It has begun.
By: Quicksilver the Archangel
Disclaimer: I, quite obviously, do not own any of the characters in Yami no Matsuei.
Warning: This fanfiction will probably use foul language, blood, violence, and shonen-ai. Pairings will be TsuzukixHisoka and MurakixTsuzuki. However, these pairings are not the main focus of the story.
Author's Note: This story is in first person, switching between the characters. I will try my best to make the changes of POV obvious. Events take place after Episode 13 of the anime; I have not, unfortunately, read all of the manga, so I may be screwing up with a set story line from there. As the title implies, Watari and Muraki have the major roles in this story, though the other main characters will be involved. Please bear with me. Finally... all responses are appreciated. This is my very first Yami no Matusei story, and I've spent quite a bit of time coming up with the concept. I only hope I have the writing skills to master it. Helpful comments are encouraged; pointless flames will be ignored.
' indicates thoughts
//\\ indicates character whose POV the story is from at the time
//Watari\\
"Oi... Watari, are you sure this is the way?"
Normally, having someone doubt me like this would upset me. However, as I know only too well, Tsuzuki is not a normal person. Knowing him, he would be questioning me even if he knew I was the only one who knew the way to a secret cave far beneath the sea. Something about him makes him unable to tolerate things in silence; I suppose it is just his way of keeping his nerves from getting too jittery. I turn to my good friend, giving him a smile, "Now, now Tsuzuki... don't you think it's rather rude to be questioning your guide?"
"But I'm hungry; you dragged us out here without time to even grab lunch!"
Ah, so THAT is what's the matter with him! Poor Tsuzuki, even I know better than to keep him from his three square meals a day, all of which, I may add, have ample portions of dessert thrown into them. Of course, if one begins to calculate all of the sugar intake that he gains from his many sugary snacks, it's no surprise that he cannot tolerate to stand still for any long period of time.
I bite the corner of my cheek to keep from laughing as Hisoka scolds his partner, "Shut up, will you? All you ever think about is your stomach! Don't you think this case is a LITTLE more important?"
"But Hisoka..."
"Don't you BUT me!"
As they break off into one of their arguments, I take the opportunity to study them both. Really, every time I think about it, I can see why people think they would never get along. Everything about the two of them is different.
Take Tsuzuki. A tall, beautiful man with chocolate brown hair and amethyst eyes, it is easy enough to see why everyone who meets him is immediately stunned. Then, their attraction becomes doubled once they begin to spend time with him. Despite his own pains and anxieties, he puts on a perpetual cheer that few can strip from him. His deep, rich voice calms you and forces you to trust him; his kindness seems without end. You feel almost immediately that you can place your life in his hands without fear. He may seem goofy, but anyone who knows him as well I can see right past that illusion. He takes his job and power quite seriously, a bit too seriously at times, in my opinion.
Yet, as important as his duties are to Tsuzuki, Hisoka beats him when it comes to being serious. Actually, to tell the truth, it's rare to find a time when the boy DOESN'T seem serious. Hisoka's emerald green eyes and light brown hair make him just as attractive as Tsuzuki, but his cold, aloof manner keep people at a distance. Not that I blame him. If I were an empath, I suspect I would hide my thoughts and feelings from the world as well, if only for my own peace of mind.
Still, even with all these differences, I must confess that these two form one of the best partnerships I have seen in my time as a shinigami. My scientific mind forces me to acknowledge that opposites attract; this is quite obviously the case with my two friends. Tsuzuki's pure, kind nature has been the only solace for Hisoka's damaged psyche, and Hisoka's presence has affected Tsuzuki in ways I do not think he truly understands. Both have been responsible for saving the lives of the other, and even I can see the love shining in their eyes as they falsely fight before me.
I feel the faint sting of envy strike me, but I ignore it. Tsuzuki is one of my best friends, and Hisoka is becoming more and more a friend every day. I should be happy that these two have found each other, whether or not they realize it. Still, I cannot help but wish that I had such a good companion, someone I could love and could love me in return. I wish that I did not always find myself so alone...
003's gentle coo in my ear makes me smile, and I scratch his head, 'I almost forgot about you, oldest friend. You are my constant companion; you will never leave me, right?' Although my owl friend cannot hear my thoughts, his large eyes close in pleasure from the scratching, and that is enough to make me cheer up again.
Well, as cheerful as you can get when you're out looking for a murderer. Quite a bloody affair, this current case. So far three victims had been discovered, all innocents who may simply have been in the wrong place at the wrong time. The throats had been slashed, a quick, painless death, but also a messy one. The bodies had been left untouched, except for one strange detail. The right eye of each individual was missing.
When I had told this detail to Tsuzuki and Hisoka, they had been understandably sickened. Yet, their revulsion went deeper then the case itself, and I knew all too well the reason why.
All three of us feared we knew the murderer; all three of us shuddered at the thought of who the man could be, must be. All three of us were afraid to voice our suspicion.
Yet, as much as we loathed the thought, we had to accept it. There was only one man we all knew who could commit such crimes without being caught or seen, only one man who would all but invite the shinigami to him with calling cards of death and blood. There was only one man who would desire such a thing.
'Muraki...'
//Tsuzuki\\
'Muraki...'
The mere thought of this man makes my blood burn with anger. Too much has happened at his hands for me to forgive him. Too many people have been hurt in his sickening attempts to capture me. The poor dead singer Maria Wong, forced back to life in order to sing for her mother's profit and Muraki's twisted plots. The use of the Camilla, a pleasure boat, to bring about the death of others. All the victims killed to further the research of Professor Satomi, his mentor.
This does not even include our current case, though there is no doubt in my mind that he is responsible.
Yet, these are simply his most recent victims. I do not have to look far to find another...
If Hisoka knew my thoughts, he would tell me that none of it is my fault. And, as usual, he would be right. Yet, when I look to my partner, I can see the scars he stills bears from his death. No, death is too polite a term for what happened to him; torture may be better.
Every time I think of how Muraki cursed him, used him, my anger doubles. In my mind's eye, I can see Muraki's pale hands gliding over Hisoka's body, and Hisoka's harsh cries of pain...
I am no longer surprised by the rage and faint jealousy I have when I force myself to think of that morbid event. I have admitted to myself the true feelings I have for Hisoka, even though I can never tell how he feels about me. I have my suspicions of course, given to me by the boy himself. Especially when he called me back from certain death...
"Tsuzuki? I hate to shake you from your thoughts, but is it not traditional for the one showing the way to be in front of the one following?"
Watari's amused voice forces me from my reverie, and with a few startled blinks, I realize that I have indeed taken the lead from him. Giving him an apologetic smile, I receive one of his own sweet grins in return, while Hisoka merely gives a small sigh, "Daydreaming slacker..."
Once, when he said such things of me, it had hurt. Then, I began to realize that his was his form of teasing, so I merely smile at him too, taking my place by his side, as our fellow shinigami begins to guide us once more.
Even as he does so, I am forced to wonder once again why it is that Watari is here with us. These crimes had not taken place in his district, as had happened once before. The scientist had not given us a clear explanation as to why he would guide us; he had simply taken the map from Tatsumi and declared he was coming.
I wish I knew what Watari was thinking. The happiness he always seems to show worries me often; I have more than once considered asking Hisoka to read his thoughts and emotions, if for no other reason than to understand my friend just a tiny bit better.
However, I know I would never truly do such a thing. I respect Watari too much for such an invasion; I love Hisoka too much to ask him to use his powers so flippantly.
Still, there is nothing to stop me from questioning him, right? Nothing except my own respect to keep his own secrets. I will not pester him; God knows we all have things we hide from others.
I take a glance towards Hisoka out of the corner of my eyes, smiling to see that he occasionally looks towards me as we walk. Yes, I think eventually we will both be able to be perfectly open with one another about our feelings. Until then, I will never state mine aloud. Let me have my secret too...
"Just what are you grinning about, Tsuzuki?"
My grin widening, I try not chuckle at Hisoka's raised eyebrow, "Oh, nothing... just thinking about the first day we met. How you almost shot me thinking I was a vampire, how you dared to try and steal my food, how you got drunk... the way I couldn't get any sleep because I had to tuck you into bed..."
A red blush spreads madly over his fine features, and he practically bites my head off, verbally if not physically, "Shut up! Why do you always make it sound so DIRTY?!"
"What? Me make something sound dirty?" I flutter my eyes, rather enjoying baiting him. "Is it my fault your thoughts drift down the gutter just because I was the one to put you to bed and comment how cute you were?"
"Oi oi... something tells me I am about to be in the middle of a lover's spat..."
//Hisoka\\
"LOVER'S SPAT?!"
The words burst forth from my mouth before I can stop them, and I clamp my hands over my mouth immediately. I can feel my face burning as I blush; I am probably as red as a beet.
Tsuzuki seems as shocked at Watari's words as I, and it gives me faint pleasure to see that he is blushing as well. That should teach him to bring up such embarrassing topics. Rare to see him so embarrassed though; I confess to myself that it is sort of nice. It makes him look even more beautiful than he is naturally...
'What on earth am I THINKING?!' I cannot BELIEVE I just thought that about Tsuzuki. Men are not supposed to think other men beautiful!
Yet, every time I think of my partner that is the only word I can think to describe him: beautiful. It makes me wonder why every time I see him my heart begins to beat just a bit faster, I seem to feel a little bit better.
Then, my own words echo in my mind as I remember how I begged him not to die, to live, if only for me. Surely it was not possible that I was falling in love with Tsuzuki?
I am hardly the best person to analyze my own feelings, and I am certain that this moment is not the best time to do so. Perhaps later, whenever I am alone and have time to think. Not now when I am on duty.
Watari merely smiles at us both, as if oblivious to our embarrassment, and he wags his finger, "Now, I do not want to have to play counselor to you both, but this is neither the time nor the place to start having one of your little fights. Tsuzuki, if you want my advice, take Hisoka here out to a nice dinner, embarrass him there, maybe get him drunk again and THEN start talking about your feelings. Hisoka... I don't know what to tell but to watch out for the sly devil."
I feel my face redden as 003 mimics his owner's actions, but it is worth it to see that Tsuzuki's mouth is wide open and slack jawed, "You really ARE cruel, aren't you?!"
Giving a toss of his hair and a shrug of his shoulders, the scientist only laughs, "I've been around Tatsumi too long; that's what you get for always leaving me behind."
Something about those words make me stare at him; I do not even have to use my empathic powers to see that there is some emotion hidden in them, "What do you mean?"
He seems startled by the question, pushing his glasses up as he turns away, "Just... I am so often left behind that, the last time I had to come to do field work with the two of you... I nearly lost you both. I stood by while Tsuzuki tried to kill himself, and I still did nothing, not even when you put yourself in danger along with him, Hisoka. I cannot forgive myself... for that weakness."
Even as he speaks, I know this; sorrow and guilt radiate from him like light from a star. This admission surprises not only himself, but Tsuzuki as well, and my partner begins to speak, "Watari..."
Grasping his arm, I gently send a tendril of thought towards him, 'Don't, Tsuzuki... anything you say right now can only make him feel worse...'
'Hisoka! You don't KNOW that! I can't just stand here and let him think I blame him for what he has done!'
'I am telling you to let it lie for a bit; whenever we are done investigating this case, talk to him. But not before; give him time to search his own feelings.' With that bit of advice I release the contact, and the link. I glance towards Watari to see if he suspects our mental discussion of him, but he merely hums a happy diddy softly to himself. I cannot lie; this relieves me immensely.
Suddenly, he stops, folding his map and placing it securely in the beak of 003, "According to Tatsumi's information, this is the place the body of the last victim was found. I suppose you can get a reading from here, Hisoka?"
Glancing at the blood that still stains the pavement, I nod, "Yes. From this, I should be able to see what it was that the victim saw."
Tsuzuki's words are harsh and cold, things I so very rarely hear from him, "Then we will truly know... whether or not Muraki is gone."
"Will this give you peace, Tsuzuki?"
Turning to face me, his purple eyes devoid of the kindness and love that I have come to cherish within him, "I would that he did not return to haunt us again.
Taken a back, but careful not to show it, I only nod, "This should not take very long..."
"Be careful, Hisoka."
It seems strange to me that Watari should say these words and not Tsuzuki; then again, as I think about it, Watari has only ever seen my power harming me. He has never witnessed the way I use them to better complete my mission.
I kneel, reaching hesitantly towards the darkest stain. I truly do not know how this will affect me, though I have no informed either Watari or Tsuzuki of the fact. I know that I should be able to see the victim, to see what he or she saw, but would I experience their death as well? It is not certain; nothing about this power of mine is ever certain.
Taking a deep breath to steady myself, I touch the stain, allowing the familiar sensations of looking into another's memories take me away from the present time.
//Muraki\\
It often amazes me how easy it is to peer inside the human soul. For all of our supposed intelligence and superiority, we truly are no better than the animals we are supposed to rule over. In some ways we are so much weaker...
A lion does not weep over the fate of the lamb, nor does the spider apologize to the fly caught in its intricate web. Our bestial companions know that in order to get what they wish, indeed, in order to survive, they must be ruthless, cunning, and heartless. They must strike with speed and determination, killing their prey and their enemies with the same moral calm. This is the only way to maintain their existence.
Yet, we humans fail to take the lessons from these creatures. Perhaps we feel it is beneath us to learn from a creature without as much intelligence or skill. Yet, if only we did, we would be better off for it. Instead we allow our weak hearts, our puny souls to rule our lives. So few of us have the stomach to do what these animals realize must be done. So few can kill, so few can remain aloof and uncaring. So few can play the game of life with a skillful hand.
I myself could once take great pride at being one of those happy few, but no longer. My one goal in life was to slay my brother, the one who had caused me so much pain. I was ready to do whatever needed to be done, kill whomever needed to be killed. I dedicated my life to revenge, my life of darkness, and I was glad.
This predatory life seemed made for me. I delighted in the blood I wallowed in, the blood that never ceased flowing. Shivers of pleasure ran down my spine at the feelings of power I experienced with each kill. Nothing could stop me! Nothing!
Or so I thought. Then, suddenly, I found something that could. Never in my wildest dreams did I imagine it could happen, that I would succumb to the weaknesses of my human heart.
But someone cast their spell upon me, someone with amethyst eyes that pierced my very soul, "Tsuzuki..."
True, I had become interested in the shinigami because I thought I could use him to slake my thirst for revenge. Yet, when I laid eyes upon him, another thirst became rampant within me. I wanted to touch him, to hold him, to possess him... all the victims I killed still had their uses, but more important to me was the fact that soon I would be able to see my love again. Each drop of blood spilled brings him closer; every victim's scream calls to him.
I told myself it was not so; I willed myself to believe it. But I have never been, nor am I now, a man to deceive myself. Desire is not the word to use for what I feel for Tsuzuki; I positively lust after him.
Yet, I still need him for my revenge, to attempt to bring Saki back. So I continue to send him my bloody invitations, knowing that the victims will bring him to me time and time again, even if everything else would fail.
As I watch from the shadows, it would appear that once again I have been successful in luring him to me. How angry he looks as he says something to that boy partner of his...
I sneak a bit closer, in order to catch the words. Yes, as I thought, they are discussing me. Really, I cannot imagine why they would not be certain that I live; how can I die without my revenge? How I could die without ever tasting Tsuzuki to his fullest? Oh no... I have reasons to live, reasons more powerful than the seductive hands of death.
Closer examination of the group reveals an additional member, other than my beloved and his partner, and I raise an eyebrow. I have seen this man with them before, the one of the long golden hair and equally golden eyes, yet I still have no true idea of who he is. I know he is a shinigami like the two others; that is sufficient information for the time being.
Seeing the boy reach towards one of the stains left behind by the victim's blood, I smirk. So he is willing to risk an emotional and mental torture simply for the chance that I MIGHT be dead and he is chasing some other criminal? How pathetic... yet how deliciously sweet...
Almost immediately after touching the stain, the boy gives a gasp, his green eyes widening in a mixture of shock and horror. It delights me to no end, I must admit, for it awakens memories within me of another time, when I possessed him, and those same luminous eyes were so full of pain inflicted by my own hand.
Tsuzuki speaks first, amazingly gentle for all the barely contained emotions displayed in his posture, "What do you see Hisoka?"
"The... victim. She was so young, barely a teenager. Her mother... her mother asked her to go to the store to pick up a cake for her younger sister's surprise birthday party," Hisoka chokes out, tears forming in the edges of his eyes. "She picked up the cake... but on the way home she... s-she..."
"Yes? What is it Hisoka?! Tell us!"
At my love's commanding tone, the man beside him turns to him with worried eyes, "Tsuzuki... this is hard for him. Don't try to push him beyond his limits..."
"Muraki... he plunged the knife into her from behind." The boy's voice becomes softer as he continues, and I feel myself begin to feel the delightful tingles spread throughout my body as I remember the event. "T-the eye... he cut out the eye while she was still alive..."
"Oh my god... the sick BASTARD!" Apparently I have angered the man I do not know, as he curls his hands into fists, the owl companion on his shoulder puffing it's feathers out to match his mood. "Is it not enough to take their lives? Must he torture them as well?!"
"Watari... Watari, I think something is wrong. If Hisoka has seen this much... why is he still locked in the trance like that?" Tsuzuki asks, ignoring the outburst as he kneels next to his partner. "Watari... look at his eyes!"
I do believe we both look at the same time; indeed, the boy's eyes have become glazed, his breathing heavy and irregular. Tsuzuki kneels next to him, his voice rising slightly in panic, "Hisoka? HISOKA?!"
The boy shudders, "Cold... so cold... life... bleeding away, so slowly... and he's LAUGHING! HE THINKS IT'S FUNNY!"
Giving a low chuckle, I watch with joy. Indeed, I do find the deaths of others amusing, but I find them cringing in pain doubly so. The sight of Hisoka so tormented fills me with extreme pleasure.
Watari studies him, his voice grave, "I think he's trapped in his vision, Tsuzuki. Break his contact with the stain."
"What will that do to him? What if it hurts him MORE?!" Tsuzuki rages, his purple eyes blazing. "I won't risk that!"
From what I know of this Watari's character so far, I expect him to back down at my love's obvious mixture of anger and fear. However, he surprises me, his voice becoming as passionless as steel, "Tsuzuki, if you do not then he will die. He is being pulled into the victim's death. Now, either put your terror behind you to save the man you love, or get the hell out of the way so I can!"
I raise an eyebrow at Tsuzuki's shocked expression. Obviously this is truly a new experience for him as well, and I begin to study the blonde companion further. He seems a scientist, nothing extraordinary. He looks to be a follower, not a leader; yet, my beloved begins to do as he asks, grasping his partner's hand.
The effects of the broken contact are not immediate; if anything, they do appear to get worse. The boy's emerald eyes fill with tears as he begins to pant and sweat, clutching Tsuzuki's hand.
Although no words are spoken, Tsuzuki suddenly scoops the boy into his arms, holding him close to his chest, almost as though he had been asked to. Then again, the boy could do such a thing with his powers.
The raw embrace sends a flash of fury and jealousy across my vision. Why? Why does Tsuzuki feel so deeply for this boy?! Beautiful, yes he is beautiful I admit, but surely not any more so than I? His emotions and thoughts are no better than my own; they are just as twisted and strange.
Seeing how the man of my heart strokes his hair so gently, whispering into his ears causes me to shake with rage, and I whisper aloud, "No, my beautiful china doll... I will not let some boy take you away from me..."
I must have Tsuzuki. There is no question of it. Yet, I will not fully possess him so long as Hisoka lives. I will not be able to obtain him; I will not be able to love him. My path is clear. I begin the incantation.
"Demon of the blackest hell; come to me and serve me well. I charge you to destroy the helpless and weak; I call you to devour the ones you seek. Drink your fill of their blood so fresh; eat your fill of their newly dead flesh. Leave none alive but the one I need; the others you may consume with your greed..."
I feel my mechanical eye begin to flow with power; I bite my tongue until my own blood gathers in my mouth. I spit this to the ground, completing the summoning, "With this sacrifice your services I claim; I of the blood and the keeper of your name. Oni, come forth to me if you dare, and darken the sky with harsh despair."
Almost immediately I am rewarded with thick, black clouds gathering in the sky; the bright flashes of lightening and rolling thunder are matched with fast winds.
I give a sickly smile, knowing my face at this moment is once again the cold predator I strive to be. It has begun.