Chapter 9: Finding The Answer Is Half The Battle

Reborn... Reborn. Reborn! It was all him! It just had to be!

"Reborn!" Tsuna called out in annoyance as he clenched his fists tightly, closing his eyes and taking a deep breath. He really didn't know why he should be so surprised. Although maybe he should be surprised at the fact that he didn't suspect his tutor. It was just like Reborn. Reborn was always testing him in some odd way—but wait. This... was a little over the top.

"Reborn?" Gokudera questioned with confusion as he stared at his boss. "What about Reborn-san?"

"Oh! Ah..." Tsuna frowned lightly in thought as he looked over his friend cautiously. A part of him wanted to talk to Gokudera about this... but then there was another part that told him to be careful. He needed to find out more. "Well... Reborn has been... trying... to, er, give a few lessons on some stuff. I wish he would be around when I actually need to talk to him."

"I see... I'm sorry Juudaime! If I knew you would be looking for him I would have had him stay here for you!" Gokudera apologized, bowing deeply once more.

Tsuna offered his friend a small smile. It wouldn't do... if Reborn didn't want to stay he really didn't think Gokudera could make him. Surely the bomber knew that as well. "I-It's okay Gokudera-kun."

The Capital Vice Bullets. If it wasn't that exactly, though he was sure it was, then it was something related. It had to be. Especially if Reborn was involved. He didn't really understand why. But he needed to find Reborn and get this resolved. Especially now since almost everyone seemed to think he would be a willing partner in—

"Ugh..." He sighed as he thought of his friends trying to kiss him. He shivered as he thought of the ones who had. And the force.

"Juudaime? Are you well?" Gokudera's voice cut in through his thoughts, making him tense a little before he relaxed and smiled at his friend.

"I'm just... a little annoyed. I really need to talk to Reborn and now he's not here." Tsuna sighed, wondering where the mafioso might have gone and when he would return. And what could he do while he waited. Maybe... would Bianchi know anything about the bullets? Could he ask her? She was from Italy, right? "Gokudera-kun? Do you know if Bianchi is still home?"

Gokudera did not look pleased at that question. His lips curled into a small snarl before he brought a calm expression to his features. "No. She left with Reborn. They were going to check on something."

"Oh..." Tsuna felt his heart sink a little before curiosity caught him. Check on something? Check on what? Was... something wrong? His eyes meeting Gokudera's he panicked a little when he saw his guardian looked annoyed. "Ah! It's nothing... personal. I was just wondering if maybe she knew where Reborn was."

The bomber's annoyance seemed to ease as his brows furrowed in thought before he turned to look down the street. "Oh. If that's the case... why don't I help you find him Juudaime!"

"E-Eh?" Tsuna blinked before slowly returning the smile Gokudera gave him. Find... Reborn. He hadn't really thought of that. Perhaps it could work. And if he had help he could find him that much faster. There were only a few places Reborn could go—well if he was going to check on something. Maybe. "Do you know what he was going to check on?"

"Nope!" Gokudera smiled happily, like nothing could be better than getting to find an infant hitman with your boss. "But I swear, as your right hand man, I will help you find him!"

Sighing lightly as he brought a hand up to scratch his cheek, he thought on that a minute before smiling. It was something. And with luck... they would find Reborn. "Okay. Let me put my bag away."

Gokudera nodded his understanding and waited for him to return. Tsuna told his mom he was going out with a friend before putting his bag in his room and running down to meet the silver haired teen where he had left him. Talking their options over for a minute they decided to try around the shopping district and school. Perhaps the infant had needed to check on something there. Tsuna was a little hesitant to go back near the school if Hibari was going to be there but then figured... maybe he could just send Gokudera on his own. Of course... he didn't want the two to fight. And there was a good chance of that if he didn't go along. Urgh.

They looked around the coffee shops and other little stores they thought Reborn might frequent only to come up with nothing. Inwardly pouting, Tsuna sucked it up and followed Gokudera back toward the school. Would Shamal be there after hours? Was that perhaps where Reborn went? He ran this idea by Gokudera and they talked on it as they walked until a greeting voice caught their attention.

"Oi, Tsuna!"

Tsuna tensed lightly against his will, something that Gokudera, unfortunately, seemed to notice as they stopped to acknowledge the person. Yamamoto smiled as he walked over to the two, eyes solely on him until Gokudera reached for the his arm and pulled him close to his side. He watched the athletic teen's smile fade slowly as his eyes darkened, taking the two in.

"Ah... h-hello Yamamoto!" He smiled. It was a little forced... but he managed it. He really hated feeling apprehensive when he saw one of his best friends. But not knowing what they would do to him now was a scary thing. He had been so lucky to have escaped the teen after school... hopefully the two wouldn't fight—

"What are you doing?" Yamamoto asked slowly, irritation coating his usual happy and carefree tone as he stared Gokudera down.

Damn.

"What do you mean?" Gokudera questioned haughtily as he pulled Tsuna closer to him, the brunette blushing lightly.

Tsuna didn't know if he should try to pull away. He wanted to but he didn't think Gokudera would easily let him go. And that might set Yamamoto off. So he stayed by the bomber's side. Unfortunately that seemed to set Yamamoto off anyway.

"Let go of Tsuna." Yamamoto commanded as he came up to the two, reaching out to pull the smaller teen away from the annoying silver haired one.

"Juudaime is with me! I don't have to do anything... baseball idiot." Gokudera smirked back at the other, tone hinting suggestively to more than what was true.

"Gokudera-kun... please. We don—" Not now! He really needed to find Reborn! He needed to stop this—well... Gokudera would always try to start fights but at least the old Yamamoto would just laugh it off and they were easy to stop.

"Tsuna is better suited with me." Yamamoto smiled at his fellow guardian as he grabbed the brunette's arm and tugged him somewhat forcefully from the other and into his arms. "Isn't that right Tsuna?"

"I—" He panicked as he took in Gokudera's scowl before turning to look at Yamamoto. He didn't really get a chance to answer as his chin was caught in calloused fingers and held firmly, smirking lips pressing against his.

His face colored instantly as he opened his mouth to protest only to have a foreign tongue cut him off. It was one thing to be kissed against his will—to be kissed by a guy against his will—to be kissed by a guy who's suppose to be his friend against his will... but to be kissed in front of someone?!

"Bastard! Release my Juudaime!" The bomber raged as he lunged at the two.

Tsuna managed to free himself in time, pushing Yamamoto away once more before turning to try to stop Gokudera. "Gokud—stop!"

He wasn't able to put a full halt to his Storm guardian's actions but he was able to stop him from reaching Yamamoto as the silver haired teen crashed into him, knocking him down accidentally. The two fell together, Gokudera landing half on him. Wincing at the pain that shot through him lightly, he looked around before clinging to the body before him when it tried to get to it's feet to attack his Rain guardian once more.

"Stop you two! Now isn't the time to—Gokudera-kun!" Tsuna frowned as he was pulled to his feet with the other teen before watching as he was knocked back by a forceful swipe from Yamamoto. "Yamamoto! Stop!"

Agitation started to gnaw at him when the two didn't listen, Gokudera recovering and attempting to attack once more. He didn't have time for this! He could just leave them... but his conscience wouldn't let him in the end. What were they even fighting over really? He needed to find Reborn. Lips curling into a displeased frown he watched his two insane friends for another minute before deciding he'd have to try to appeal to something they—or at least Gokudera—would find hard to ignore.

"Gokudera-kun! I command you to stop!" He called forcefully, clenching his fists and closing his eyes for a second.

He was slightly surprised when it seemed to work. Gokudera stopped at once, though this let Yamamoto get his hit. Taking a hit to the jaw, the silver haired teen fell back onto the ground. Tsuna quickly went to his side to see if he was okay. After all, it was partially his fault.

"Gokudera-kun..." He sighed lightly before frowning. "You said you'd help me find Reborn. Maybe you should just go home. You're causing me only trouble."

I'm sorry Gokudera-kun. He couldn't help feeling bad when his words seemed to hurt his friend. He really didn't want to but he couldn't let this continue. When he found Reborn and sorted this all out he would be sure to apologize properly.

"Juudaime! I—" The silver haired teen looked ready to apologize forcefully when Tsuna stopped him short.

"Please. Just go home." Tsuna said lightly before turning his attention to Yamamoto who was watching with a light smirk. "Yamamoto should go home as well."

"Ah... Tsuna. Don't be ma—" Yamamoto started to speak, resigning the brunette to be a little forceful with him as well.

"I'd like you more if you just went home as well Yamamoto." He said softly, turning away as though he thought the other really wasn't worth his time.

He didn't know why... but it seemed to work. Yamamoto looked annoyed but he started to walk away followed by Gokudera. He watched them for a few minutes before sighing and running a hand through his messy locks. He needed to find Reborn and get this all figured out so things could go back to the way the were before. Especially when it came to Hibari and Dino as well. Especially Hibari. He shuddered lightly thinking about the kiss Yamamoto had forced on him. At least it was just lips against lips unlike Hibari's... tongue. A shiver stole through him when he remembered how it had felt.

Sighing he decided to continue on to the school like planned to see if perhaps Shamal was there, and if so if Reborn had stopped by to see him.

* * *

His whole body was trembling with relief as he made it to the safety of the street beyond the school. That had been a close one! Even more so than the previous brushes. Apparently Hibari was still at school for whatever reasons known only to him and he nearly ran straight into him as he walked down the hall looking for Shamal. He really didn't know how he had managed to escape without being caught by the wolfish disciplinarian but he was grateful, though a little disappointed that his trip had led to nothing.

Shamal hadn't been there. And he didn't think Reborn had been there either. So where to now then? Wondering if he should just go home and wait he had just turned to start toward home when he suddenly tensed, a chill creeping over him even though it was warm outside. At first he worried Hibari had seen him after all and was coming for him until the aura that filled his senses put that worry to rest. Instead of relief he tensed more. Him. He honestly didn't know if he was more or less trouble than Hibari.

When he felt like a hand would touch his arm at any moment fear captured him and he screamed before he started running. Home! He needed to make it home! He would be safe there—but... what if he was wrong? Would a simple thing like his own house stop Mukuro from pursuing him? Shuddering he stopped, wondering frantically what he should do.

"My, Tsunayoshi-kun... so tense. Maybe I can help you with that."

Tsuna tensed again before shuddering as Mukuro's voice washed over him. Wait! Why was Mukuro even—was Chrome okay? Did the thing possessing her finally take over her conscious as well? Sudden concern shadowing his fear, he turned to face his Mist guardian. "Mukuro! Is—"

He didn't get to continue as an illusion was cast around them, leaving them in a world of white. He wrists were grabbed by cool gloved hands and his body was tugged against the taller teen's. When a kiss was about to be forced upon him he grew annoyed and used his body to bump the offending one away since he couldn't move his arms.

"Mukuro stop! Where is Chrome! Is she okay? Did she—" He managed a glare until he was silenced by a gloved hand on his jaw. He wanted to maintain an angry stance but the way Mukuro was looking at him made him a little nervous.

"So concerned. If you really want to know... give me something as compensation." The Mist guardian said slyly, his eyes smirking more than his lips ever could.

"Compensation...? What do you—" When those smirking lips met his he figured he should have known. Why did everyone keep kissing him today?! He tried to pull away but Mukuro just moved the hand from his jaw to the back of his head to keep him in place. When he felt a tongue seeking entrance he at least had some satisfaction that there would be no entrance unless he allowed it.

And he kept his lips firmly shut. Now he kind of wished he hadn't sent Gokudera home. Of course... he and Yamamoto would probably still be fighting so it wasn't like he would have been better off after all. Well... that was fine. Mukuro could kiss him. But he wouldn't give in to it. He gazed defiantly into Mukuro's mismatched eyes when the tongue tried a little more insistently to breach his clamped barrier.

Mukuro arched a curious brow at the brunette's silent defiance before his eyes darkened in amusement. Tsuna wondered if maybe he had done the correct thing before he suddenly gasped, lips parting, as a questing hand slid down over his stomach and between his leg, cupping his groin and squeezing. Before he could register his mouth was open he felt Mukuro's tongue slip in and overpower him.

What the hell?! Anger and embarrassment warred within him as he struggled to pull away. When Mukuro wouldn't release his mouth he moved his hands from trying to push the taller teen away to the dark blue locks at the back of his guardian's head. Grabbing a fist full he pulled hard until he was released as his victim jerked back with a startled cry. Gasping for breath a few times, he stumbled a few steps back before moving his eyes to glare. Mukuro glared back, rubbing at the back of his head before he smiled lightly.

"So feisty... one thing I don't envy." Mukuro laughed minutely. "But it does make it more interesting when it comes to devouring you."

Tsuna blinked at that comment before gasping as he was suddenly tackled back into the grass. His poor head throbbed in protest when it hit the ground and his eyes watered until the pain dulled. He tried to use his hands to push Mukuro away but he was overpowered when an illusion was cast to bind his hands above his head. He tried to remind himself that it was just an illusion and that it wasn't real but the feel of his body being pressed into the ground distracted him.

"Mukuro! Let me go!" He tried to sound imposing and strong. But his voice cracked lightly with a tremor that made it useless.

"I will... in time..." Mukuro smiled down at him, stoking his cheek lightly with a gentleness that almost fooled him. It did startle him somewhat, however. "When everything that is yours is mine."

He didn't know what to do. There was an illusion around them which led him to believe that no one would be able to see them and help him. His hands were trapped so he couldn't try to reach for his pills. He didn't know where Reborn was to try to have him stop this madness. He was pulled from his thoughts when he felt Mukuro shift on him. Bringing his eyes back to the other teen's face he froze when he saw him lean in toward him.

"Mukuro... please—don't!" It was useless. He knew it was useless. But that didn't stop him from trying.

A light kiss was pressed against the corner of his mouth before they were trailed over his chin and down to his throat. He closed his eyes tightly, fighting back a whimper when he felt those lips trail along where Hibari and Yamamoto had previously bitten him. To mark him. Would Mukuro do the same? Why? Why were they doing this to him? At the first feel of the sting of sharp teeth he cried out. But... what he cried out not only surprised him but seemed to stun Mukuro as well as the body on top of his stilled.

"Hibari-san!"

Their eyes met, each mirroring the other's surprise before Tsuna felt his face and neck heat up. Hibari? Why had he called out for Hibari?! It was as Mukuro's expression darkened that it came to him. Hibari... was the only person he knew besides Reborn who could stand up to Mukuro. And since he couldn't find Reborn... his instinct called for Hibari. How embarrassing. But maybe... even if he couldn't see him... maybe... he could hear him. The school couldn't be that far. It was stupid! No one could find him! But still...

"Hibari-san! Hel—e-eh??" Tsuna blinked in confusion as the illusion suddenly broke and he briefly wondered if there was a chance that Hibari had heard. And then he felt the body on his change. Looking back up at Mukuro he felt his heart lighten when it wasn't Mukuro any longer... but Chrome.

Her cheeks were flushed a light pink and she was breathing shallowly, like she had just ran a few miles. Holding onto Chrome's shoulders, he held her steady as he sat up so she was moved to his lap. His concern for her didn't let him register what could be considered an intimate position.

"Chrome-san! Are you okay?" He asked lightly, looking over her face. What had happened? Had she lost power over Mukuro for a second and finally got it back? Or maybe...

"Boss... I'm sorry. I lost control." Chrome said so quietly he almost missed her words.

"I—it's okay... Chrome? How are you?" He asked lightly, a small smile coming when he thought of her trying so hard to fight this. It must be hard. And he was complaining just because he had to deal with the people? How did it feel to be possessed like that?

"There you are!"

Both Tsuna and Chrome jumped lightly at the call, turning at the same time to see who it was.

"W-What are you two doing—" The voice squawked upon seeing the two so close.

"Hiiih? Er..." Tsuna floundered as he actually took in how he and Chrome were sitting now, blushing lightly.

"Ken... calm down." Another voice said monotonously.

"Ken... Chikusa...." Chrome said with more breath than she seemed to have had before, taking the two in.

Ken snorted before stomping over to where Tsuna and Chrome were sitting, pulling the girl to her feet. "We've come to take you back."

"Ah! Wait..." Tsuna frowned. He really couldn't say anything about them taking her if she was going to willingly go with them... but... they still seemed to be treating her more roughly than need be. Did they know what was going on? Did they know how she and Mukuro had changed—ah! That's right! It was because of Chrome that he knew a little of what was going on at first. Maybe she would know a little about the bullets? Either way he could put her on her toes. Unlike Gokudera or Yamamoto... he felt safe in telling her.

When he saw Chrome stumble a little so Ken had to catch her he frowned for a moment wondering if he should just let them take her home for now. He could always talk to her later. Looking over the two his attention was caught by Chikusa. An idea coming to him he nodded his head mentally in agreement with it before walking over to the other teen.

"C-Chikusa... san?" When the teen looked at him with an expression of disinterest he blushed lightly before pushing on. "Can I tell you... something?"

Chikusa just arched an eyebrow at him, seemingly waiting for him to speak.

"About Chrome-san... that thing possessing her conscious. You know of it now don't you?" He asked slowly hoping that they knew about it by now. When Chikusa looked from him to Chrome with a curious gaze he frowned until the teen turned his attention back to him, nodding. "Right... well. It's about the Capital Vice Bullets—er, do you know anything about them?"

Chikusa just stared at him as Ken helped Chrome onto his back in the background. Finally Chikusa spoke slowly, eyes looking over his face as he used a finger to push his glasses back up on his nose. "I... don't know much about it. But maybe Mukuro-san will."

With that he turned to join Ken and Chrome as they started to leave, probably to go back to Kokuyo Land.

"Ah! Wait!" Tsuna frowned as he watched them start to leave. Would Chrome be okay? When they turned to look at him he frowned before clenching his fists in determination. "Tell Chrome I will figure out how to save her. Once I talk to Reborn."

Chikusa just nodded before they continued on their way. Tsuna watched them for a few minutes before sighing and straightening his clothes, blushing lightly when he realized he was still in his gym clothes. Figuring he should just go home and wait he also decided it was a good idea to go home and change as well.

* * *

"I'm home—ack!" Tsuna squawked as he was nearly rundown by children when he stepped into the house. Looking over his shoulder he saw I-Pin chasing Lambo over the yard, yelling something about meatballs and Fuuta trying to get both to stop. Arching a brow at the show, he decided after a minute that he really didn't want to know. Taking his shoes off he walked toward the kitchen when something wonderful caught his eye.

"Bianchi-san!" He said happily when he saw the woman come out of the kitchen with a list in her hand. "Is Reborn here?"

Finally! He could talk to his tutor and figure out how to end this!

"No." Bianchi answered simply as she spared him a moment of her attention before walking around him toward the door.

His heart dropped. Or... maybe not. Turning on his heel he followed the woman. "Do you know when he will be back—or at least where he is?"

"He'll be back later... don't worry." She answered simply once more after slipping her shoes on and following the children out of the door, closing it behind her.

Sighing in disappointment he turned and headed for his room so he could change his clothes. He was just about to sit down to start on his homework when the infant he had been looking for finally made an appearance, coming in through the window.

"Ciaossu." Reborn greeted as he jumped on Tsuna's bed, watching his student with interest.

"Reborn! Finally! I've been looking for you everywhere!" Tsuna growled as he set his homework aside, giving all of his attention to his tutor. It was time to end this. "Where have you been anyway?"

Reborn was silent for a moment, probably wondering whether or not to tell him anything. "I was checking up on Dino. He seems to be causing trouble."

"Dino-san?" Tsuna frowned lightly, worry creasing his brows. That's right... his anger. His poor family. Ah! Wait! "Well—that's your fault isn't it! Why did you shoot them? I thought this was suppose to be a break? What are you thinking?!"

He knew he shouldn't probably use such a tone with his tutor, but he was annoyed.

"Dame-Tsuna finally figured it out?" Reborn asked with a smirk before jumping from the bed to kick his student on the back of the head for his tone. "Took you long enough."

Tsuna cried out in pain when his head was kicked, the force making him whack it on the edge of the table. "O-Ow! W-Well how was I suppose to know there was bullets out there that possessed people?!"

Apparently Reborn didn't think that line of defense was acceptable as he quickly retorted with, "Dame-Tsuna! As boss you should be prepared for these kinds of things and advance your knowledge on things that could be harmful to your family."

Tsuna's lips curled into a frown before he forced annoyance onto his features. "Gokudera-kun said that they were suppose to be a myth—well, at least that's what people seem to think. H-How did you come across such things anyway?"

"That's unimportant. What you should be thinking about is how you're going to save your family." Reborn said, brushing his student's question away like it was just a fleck of dirt.

Tsuna stared for a second before arching a brow. Some break this was. He snorted. "You're the one who shot them."

"And they are your subordinates, thus your responsibility." Reborn countered calmly, watching his student's agitation over this grow.

"You're the one who shot them—ow ow ow!" Tsuna tried to argue before whimpering as his arm was pinned forcefully behind his back in a painful way.

"And you're the one who is going to cure them. And don't forget to hurry... or it will only get worse." Reborn added before releasing the brunette.

Tsuna groaned as he rubbed at his arm soothingly. "What do you mean... I don't know how to cure them!"

Worse? That's right. Oh no... worse! They were bad enough already!

"Again, figure it out. I believe in you." Reborn stated as he looked over his student's homework. "Lets work on this."

"Ah! But Reborn! I don't even know how to—okay, okay! Homework!" Tsuna called when his protest was ended with Reborn pointing a gun at him. If it wasn't for his fear of Reborn he didn't think he would haven been able to concentrate on his homework. When he managed to get everything done he was exhausted, physically and mentally and Reborn didn't want to talk about anything else since he was tired as well.

Admitting defeat in getting answers from Reborn at the moment he got ready for bed, resigning himself to the fact that he would have to try again tomorrow.

Cure. He was to cure his family? Did that mean... he could just give them some kind of medicine? Maybe he should try talking to Shamal as well. He was a doctor after all. And an elder member of the mafia. Maybe he would have more knowledge than Gokudera. Ah... Gokudera and Yamamoto. Earlier he felt one step closer to making them normal again... now he felt farther away then before. And Dino. Reborn had to check up on Dino. Was he okay?

Why was Reborn letting this happen to Dino anyway? He was a boss of his own family. And Haru! What did she have to do with the mafia? Kyoko was worrying... and Chrome. She was looking tired. Was it because she was fighting so hard? Or maybe...

He gasped mentally, tensing a little. Was it hurting her? Was the thing possessing her... actually hurting her from the inside? What about the others? They never really seemed exhausted but maybe it was hurting them anyway. Fear for his friends started to creep up on him. Could whatever this was... actually hurt them in a damaging way? Surely Reborn wouldn't allow that—of course... it's never really stopped him before.

He wanted to ask him but... he was sleeping. And it wasn't worth it to wake him up.

* * *

When Tsuna awoke the next morning he was a little disappointed to see that Reborn had already awaken and left the room. And then he started to feel annoyed. He was being avoided. At least that's what it felt like. Was Reborn determined to make him do it all on his own then? He didn't even know where to begin! At least... he hadn't woken up to Dino sitting over him again. That was horrible.

As he got up and got ready for the day he thought on things he could do and what he knew about the bullets. Which really wasn't much. According to Gokudera they were based off the Seven Deadly Sins. And according to Kyoko... hey! Kyoko! Maybe he could ask her about it and see the information she had found on it from the school work. It wasn't much but at least it was something. Hopefully even a start to ending all of this! And there was also Shamal. Maybe during lunch break he could check in on the doctor and see what he knew. After all... Reborn never said he couldn't ask for outside help—though he did say to figure it out on his own.

But he probably just meant that he wasn't going to help. He sighed. Reborn always made easy things complicated. After cleaning up in the bathroom and dressing in his uniform he gathered his bag and went downstairs for breakfast, eating as quickly as he could so he would have a better chance of being able to leave for school without crossing paths with Gokudera or Yamamoto. He wasn't ready to face them. And it kind of hurt him that he was trying to avoid his friends. Hopefully this would all be over sometime today though!

Calling a quick thanks for the breakfast to his mom in the kitchen he hurried to put his shoes on and left the house in good time. It was a little chilly in the early morning but he liked that it chased away the last bit of sleepiness that tried to linger. He needed to be focused today. And cautious. He had Hibari to avoid and information to find out.

He was happy to make it to school safely a few minutes later. It kind of sucked that he couldn't enjoy a leisurely pace with his friends but it was also nice to be early for once. There weren't many people there so it was easier to hide from Hibari without looking weird. Bringing his bag to the classroom he thought about seeing to Shamal first thing. It was probably the safest time of the day. Since there weren't many people there yet... Hibari wouldn't have to be patrolling intently to find rule breakers.

Leaving his stuff at his desk he peeked out of the classroom before making his way to the infirmary only to be disappointed when he got there. Apparently since it was so early in the morning that no teen girls would be here... Shamal wasn't either. Sulking a little he sighed and wondered if maybe he should wait. Remembering the last time he had been in here and how he had been cornered by Hibari he decided to just try again at lunch. It would be a little harder sneaking down here but at least he stood more of a chance than just sitting here and waiting. What if Hibari came for whatever odd reason? There would be no escape.

Making his way cautiously back to his classroom he nearly had a heart attack when he almost ran into Hibari but luckily he was talking to some members of the newspaper committee and was spared. Hopefully that would be the only close call of the day. Sitting at his desk he stared out of the window as the students started coming in, frowning when Gokudera and Yamamoto were no where to be found when class started.

Instantly he started to worry. Had the two met each other on the way to school? Did they fight while he wasn't there to stop them? Were they hurt somewhere? Not liking the repeated feelings he tried to remain calm until break. Maybe Gokudera just decided to skip and Yamamoto was... well, he really didn't know. And for some reason that made him worry more. What if they were hurt somewhere because of the possession? That worry grew more when his eyes fell on Kyoko. She didn't seem stressed about anything. That was a relief. It let him know that her brother, at least, seemed to be still okay.

When the first break came he didn't hesitate to question his fellow classmates on whether or not they had seem either Yamamoto or Gokudera that day, blushing a little when he was given odd looks, like they couldn't believe Dame-Tsuna was talking to them. Like he was a slug. Unfortunately no one seemed to have seen either one, though a few seemed happy that Yamamoto wasn't there since he had changed.

As he walked away he felt his heart hurt him so much he almost wanted to cry. Yamamoto and Dino and Hibari... were so different from before. And if it was hurting the people around them, how was it hurting them? He had to stop this! For their sake. When class started again he decided to visit Shamal during lunch then talk to Kyoko about getting the information on the sins.

* * *

It was lunchtime! Where was he?! Surely he wouldn't leave while students—scratch that... while girls might have need for him during this time! Eyebrow furrowing he started to play with the idea that the perverted doctor was chasing the poor girls around the school while there were so many clustered together. Rolling his eyes he turned to leave only to bump into a wall of chest.

His heart jumped into his throat when he saw the dark coat—Shamal's was white! Stumbling back a little he looked up to meet the eyes of Hibari's second in command, Kusakabe. Dislodging itself from his throat his heart now fell into his stomach.

"G-Good afternoon..." He stuttered, trying to smile like he hadn't been dreading a chance meeting with a committee member all day.

"Kyou-san would like to see you..." Kusakabe said slowly with an expression like he thought it was the most unimaginable thing possible. Secretly Tsuna agreed. Especially because of the reason.

Wait. Hibari wanted to see him—ah! Did... his heart just stop?! Silently he begged it to start again... and it responded with a harsh thump. "I... I can't. I have something to d—"

"Kyou-san made it clear that if you do not go to him... he'll come find you." Kusakabe replied, almost apologetically.

Tsuna turned red, though he wasn't really sure why before frowning. He needed to hurry and figure this out! "I-I'm sorry! I really can't! I have... something to do for the school. Please tell him..."

He needed to find Kyoko. Soon. Bowing politely he started to walk cautiously around Kusakabe to leave the room. When the older male didn't make a move to stop him he sighed a silent breath of relief before hurrying away to find where Kyoko was.

It didn't take long to find her eating lunch with Hana and some other girls from their class. Asking to talk to her for a minute he was relieved when she followed him back to the classroom. Asking to borrow her notes on the sins he was deeply relieved to find that she actually kept him. He didn't know what he would have done if she had thrown them out.

"Here you go Tsuna-kun." She smiled sweetly at him as she handed her notes over to him.

He returned the smile gratefully as he took the papers. Her handwriting was so cute! He was just about to open his mouth to thank her politely when a loud bang sounded from the classroom door. The easy chatter that had surrounded them only a second before died so fast you would have thought the whole world was suddenly put on mute. Tensing at the dark aura he felt, he turned to the doorway to see Hibari standing there and glaring at him.

He felt completely stupid when his jaw dropped uselessly at the sight of his angry Cloud guardian.

"School work, huh?" Hibari asked darkly, steel blue eyes narrowing threateningly.

"Hello Hibari-senpai." Kyoko greeted cutely, apparently unable to sense the teen's foul mood.

Kyoko! Don't say hello so happily when he wants to kill me! Tsuna complained mentally. Clutching the notes tightly he tried to meet Hibari's eyes but found it hard so he just stared at his nose. "Kyoko-chan was giving me her notes on—"

He was cut off, a fearful tremor shooting through him when Hibari stalked over to where he stood, grabbed him by the arm and led him out of the room. He would have liked to add forcefully but once Hibari's hand touched him... his body obediently followed without any resistance. Was that what you called a survival instinct? He was a little surprised when he was led to the Reception room but then figured he should have expected that. After all... Hibari claimed it as his own. And then he started to feel a little grateful. If Hibari was going to do something perverted to him... he'd rather it be where no one else would see—for both of their sakes. Upon entering the room he tensed a little when he saw Kusakabe but was relieved when Hibari told him to leave, only to tense once more when Hibari locked the door after the other had left.

When Hibari released his arm he brought both to his chest, clinging tightly to Kyoko's notes like they could protect him. He tried his best to ignore the dangerous teen as he felt his eyes upon him but it didn't last long before he was forced to meet the other's eyes.

"Why didn't you come?" Hibari hissed against his ear, making him shiver a little as it tickled.

Honesty, he supposed, made him braver since he couldn't associate with anything else. Looking up he met Hibari's gaze. "I had something to do for school. Kyoko-chan is letting me borrow her notes to make it easier."

Hibari remained silent before letting his gaze trail down to the notes. His face relaxed before he reached out for the papers. "Well... now that you have your notes..."

Tsuna opened his mouth to protest when Hibari pulled the papers away and set them aside but cut himself off when a possessive hand gripped his hip. He had to get away! "Hibari-san—"

"I heard you called for me yesterday..." Hibari said lowly, turning his attention back to the teen he had in his grasp. "The baby said so when that annoying herbivore had you in his grasp."

His face went red even though he tried to stop it, letting Hibari know that it was true. The baby... Reborn? Reborn had seen and didn't help him?! And now they were making it sound as if he called him because he wanted to—because he wanted Hibari! "It wasn't like..."

Tsuna felt his breath hitch when nimble fingers undid the first few buttons on his shirt, warm lips pressing against his bare neck.

"Did he touch you, Tsunayoshi?" Hibari asked, though his tone suggested he already knew the answer to that.

"He tried... to kiss me..." Tsuna felt it was safe to answer that at least. Because it was true. But he didn't want to add how he was powerless to stop him from actually doing so... amongst a few other things.

"Oh... and these marks?" Hibari asked softly, trailing a fingertip over his collarbone next to where his lips grazed over his skin. "Not all are the ones I gave you."

Yamamoto. But he couldn't tell Hibari that! He would probably get angry and he didn't need him going after the baseball lover when Gokudera already seemed to have an unneeded vendetta against him. "Hibari-san, I tried to make him stop!"

He felt stupid after saying it. But... it seemed to have at least a slightly positive effect. Hibari seemed pleased with that answer, pressing a kiss against his throat before moving to his lips.

Cheeks turning pink he bravely turned his head away in time. "Hibari-san, please. I have something I need to do."

Hibari didn't look pleased about that. He winced when the dark haired teen twisted a fist in his hair, making him look at him again. "I only care about what I want."

He didn't seem to have a problem with being selfishly blunt Tsuna noted with a bit of admiration. Unfortunately that didn't help him in the least. Pushing back a frown since he didn't think his displeasure would bother the disciplinarian in the least he tried to reason. "It's important. I really need to do—"

A harsh kiss pressed to his lips made him whimper helplessly. "Spend time with me first."

Tsuna blinked at how simple that sounded. Spend... time with him? How much time? Frowning lightly he looked at his guardian as an idea came to him. "Hibari-san... if I give in a little now will you let me go before lunch is over?"

Hibari seemed to think on that for a minute. "Visit me after school as well."

He only hesitated for a second before nodding slowly. He had what he needed from Kyoko. Hopefully he could find something out before the end of the day... and make everyone normal again. He would have to skip out on Hibari and risk his anger if he found him before he could find a cure but... if he stayed at home for the most part then Hibari wouldn't be able to get to him before he was normal again. And he could stand making this small sacrifice now. If Hibari agreed to let him go before lunch was over... he was sure that meant nothing too sexual could happen between them.

Cheeks turning an embarrassed pink, he raised trembling hands to grip the front of Hibari's shirt before pressing a shy kiss to his lips. The sooner he started this, the sooner he could get it over with. Hibari just watched him with interest, making him blush more. Closing his eyes against the stare he pressed another light kiss before parting his lips a little. All further action was taken from his hands as Hibari took the lead, fist tightening gently in his hair as his mouth devoured his own.

Hibari was all teeth and tongue with this kiss and for some reason it made him tingle as pleasing shivers tickled his spine. Why? Because he wasn't resisting for once? But... the other time he hadn't resisted it didn't feel like this. When the kiss was broken he panted lightly as Hibari nuzzled into his neck, hands stroking his sides for a minute before the taller teen stepped back and took his hand. He was led to one of the couches in the room before he was pulled down onto Hibari's lap after his guardian had sat.

"Hibari-san?" He questioned almost shyly as he was made to straddle the dark haired male. He didn't get a reply as an arm around his waist pushed his hips down into the other teen's causing him to moan lightly in surprise. Embarrassed by the unintentional sound he leaned forward until his face was safely hidden in the crook of Hibari's neck.

Unknown to him Hibari took this as a sign of consent and continued with the action, pushing his hips down once more as he pushed up with his own. A pleased gasp was pulled from his lips. And then an embarrassed squeak as he realized was his gasp had meant. Now what the hell was going on?! Bringing his hands up to cling to the front of Hibari's shirt once more he begged him to hurry up, meaning he wanted Hibari to do what he needed so he could leave.

Hibari took it as a come on.

Tsuna squealed in sudden surprise as he was pushed to lie back on the couch. Before he could register what was happening Hibari was on top of him, pushing his body to lie between his legs. His face felt way too hot as it went a nice shade of red at the feel, heating up more when Hibari ground his own hips against his. It felt so weird... but not bad. And that made it feel wrong. It shouldn't feel... good. For one Hibari was a boy... for another... he was too young for this kind of thing—he wasn't ready!

Before he could protest he was kissed once more. It was strong and heated and... a little scary. Hibari dominated his mouth in such an overpowering way he couldn't help also being a little awed. Was this what was meant by passion? When his lips were released they hurt a little and he had to gasp for breath. Another moan was pulled from him when the friction of his hips against Hibari's felt...

"Hibari-san!" He tried to protest but his voice came out breathlessly so it merely sounded like a plea for more.

Against his will his body arched into the heated touch as fingertips trailed down his chest and over his stomach while firm lips pressed against his pulse. His hips bucked on instinct when he felt the hand stroke over his crotch and his eyes widen as he felt his body respond to the touch in an embarrassing way. Then he panicked. This shouldn't be happening!

Then Hibari stopped. He stilled so suddenly it was like he was turned to stone before coming to life once more and pulling away, teeth gritted and fists clenched. "You should leave now Tsunayoshi."

Blinking in confusion he sat up slowly, watching Hibari with slight concern. He kind of looked like he was in pain. "Hibar—"

"If you don't leave now I won't be able to stop." Hibari muttered looking away. It annoyed him deeply that he was having such a hard time with control.

Tsuna stared for a second before understanding. Getting shakily to his feet he was happy to note that the arousal Hibari had sparked in him wasn't noticeable. Once more embarrassment flooded him, turning his cheeks pink. Purposely avoiding Hibari's gaze he crossed to where Kyoko's notes were and picked them up before moving toward the door. As he made to reach for it his hand was stopped by a firm grip before he was pulled into a warm body, a warning hissed in his ear.

"You'd better return after school..." Hibari said lightly before releasing him.

Tsuna stared at him wide-eyed for a minute before nodding quickly, trying to keep all his thoughts on his lie off of his face. "Of course."

When he was released he hurried from the room and as far away from Hibari as he could go. He was just about to make his way back toward his classroom when he decided to try Shamal once more. He was irritated to see the man still wasn't there and started to wonder if maybe... Reborn had tipped him off to avoid him as well or something. He held back a scowl. Would Reborn really limit his help options? Unfair!

Finally he was distracted by his stomach growling and remembered he still had to eat lunch! Locating a clock he saw he would have to hurry or he was going to miss it completely!

* * *

When the bell sounded to signify the end of school he ran. He ran as fast as he could, giving up on Shamal, following and blending in with the other students who were leaving. He needed to get home before Hibari could find him! Oh, he was going to be so angry when he found out what he did but... but once he figured this all out and was able to get a cure then all would be well! Hopefully Hibari wouldn't even remember the things that happened while he was possessed. Oh no... what if he did? Would he still blame him?

And then he started to wonder why he didn't just tell him that he was possessed? Hibari had blamed him hadn't he? Maybe... if he knew what was going on he could fight it? Hibari was strong. He had fought against other things will. Maybe he could be of some help. Although... maybe he wouldn't believe him at all. He sighed.

Too late now. Looking around he saw he was already a few blocks from the school and he really didn't want to have to go back just to try something that might fail and then be caught in Hibari's clutches.

"Such an intense face Tsunayoshi-kun... what unimportant thoughts float around in that fluffy head of yours?"

Tsuna jumped at the voice, not realizing he had been so lost in his thoughts. Body tensing and heart racing he turned reluctantly to face this new annoyance that had managed to sneak up on him.

"Mukuro..." He frowned. What happened to Chrome?

-Chapter 9 End-

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A/N: There! Finally an update! Sorry it took so long! Really...

I don't really have much to say on this chapter since I am so busy with trying to get everything else done but... I hope it's enjoyed. :3

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NEXT CHAPTER: The Cure That Could Be Fatal