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Of Games And Assassins Part 1-5 by Cherrie
part 1	part 2	part 3	part 4	part 5
Part 1
Disclaimers: Hunter X Hunter © Yoshihiro Togashi, Shounen Jump Weekly, Shueisha and Nippon Animation. This fanfic is written for entertainment purposes only. Summary: It's settled. Illumi Zoldick has reached the age he has been dreading for so long. To escape his fate, he turns to the one single person who could help him. Hisoka x Illumi Notes: *grins like an idiot* Another one of my muse's my-human-can't-sleep-so-I'll-just-bombard-her-with-ideas nights. I'll be writing chapter 1 for now, then move on to finish Luminescence. Sorry for delaying the latter, but I just have to right this down ^.^ Anyway, warning goes here because the characters may become OOC (example, Illumi cursing and talking not in monotone). I mean, Illumi may or may not want to marry, but if we're talking typical Illumi here, he might not care at all. But let's just say that he doesn't want to, okay? ^___^ OF GAMES AND ASSASSINS by: Cherrie ( kurapikasama@yahoo.com ) Chapter 1 - Coming of Age It was cold way up there on the ceiling. But he really had no choice. He either had to stay up there and freeze to death or go down and die slowly and painfully in the worst kind of torture his family has come up with. So instead of dwelling on the fact that it was almost below ten degrees there, he settled on just clutching the wooden beam tighter as he leaned down to peek behind the flame of the torch on the wall. "Illumi, dear! Mama's looking for you, where are you?" came a sweet but deafening voice from the darkness of the hallway ahead. His mother, Kikyou Zoldick, can be really sweet most of the time. But one has to admit that her voice is almost comparable to the screeching of tires against a smooth road, in lack of better (or worse) things to be reminded of. "Dearest, please come out, Mama promises not to hurt you!" Illumi rolled his eyes. Like hell I'm ever coming down while you're there, he thought as he watched the bright yellow form of his mother walking and looking around. He almost wanted to hit himself. Here he was, a full-grown man in his twenties, but he's still hiding from his own mother as if he just did something really bad and would be punished for it. Don't get him wrong, he liked his mother, but he just won't come down for her right this moment. He watched quietly as she went on past where he sat. Kikyou's steps were small and careful, and her progress along the hallway was agonizingly slow. But eventually, she disappeared into the darkness, her footsteps trailing behind until they, as well, disappeared with her. He waited a few more seconds, then jumped down from the beam as lightly as his skills would allow him to. Granted, he succeeded and emitted no sound, but just when he was about to stand up and run away from his mother, a small body crashed with his own. Brotherly instincts came to him at the wrong time, and deciding automatically that this was one of his siblings he just hit, he quickly grabbed hold of the small shoulders as he regained his balance to keep the younger one from falling as well. "Aniki!" The light from the torch revealed Killua's cheerful face, his dark purple eyes sparkling beneath the flame as he caught sight of him. The young boy arrived just a few hours ago, when Karuto was sent to escort him back to Kukulu Mountain because of a 'special occasion'. Illumi cursed that said occasion when he was reminded of it, but he wasn't able to dwell on it for long because Killua's perked up voice rang through the whole hallway. "Mama, I found Illumi!!!" One thing about Killua, he likes to antagonize Illumi's life as much as he's allowed to. Sure, Illumi scares the hell out of him, but that never stopped him from seeking revenge against his eldest brother for 'making his life miserable'. But really, was it Illumi's fault that he's the one assigned to train Killua? For the young heir, yes, it was Illumi's fault. "Hold him down dear, I'm coming!" came Kikyou's high-pitched response. Quick footsteps echoed against the cold stone wall, indicating Kikyou's fast approaching form. "Sure thing," said Killua, pure mischief reflected in his cat-like eyes as he quickly grabbed a hold of Illumi's wrist. Killua's certainly stronger now, noted Illumi as it took him a while to struggle out of his younger brother's hold. But desperation is a miraculous thing, and it can help you through if ever you're in a bind. With a sudden burst of adrenaline, (To hell with brotherhood, thought Illumi) he violently pushed his brother against the wall and freed himself from the iron grip. Killua hit the stone wall with a sickening 'thud' and was shaken for a few seconds, and this Illumi used to escape. He ran as fast as his feet could go. He heard Killua's faraway, "Ma, he's getting away again!" behind him, and he cursed his brat for a brother as he looked around to see where he was. He was somewhere around the western wing, and if he remembered correctly, there's a hidden passage here that comes out below the staircase in the main hall. He scanned from wall to wall for the tapestry he's looking for. Right there, painted with a blood red snake ready to strike, the huge cloth was pushed aside as the eldest Zoldick child went past it. It was pitch black inside, but Illumi doesn't mind. All he wanted was to get out of there. Many people say that once you enter the Zoldick territory, you might as well have entered Hell itself. With the rate his family was going through just to stalk him, Illumi can't help but agree. * * * * * He was bored. Hisoka was lying down on the bed of the small hotel suite, a huge leap below his usual preference of dominating the top floors of every hotel he steps upon. But he felt that though he's almost the very epitome of spontaneous life himself, his tendency to take the top floors was getting old. So there he was, in an ordinary suite, staring at the small chip on the ceiling as if it was the most fascinating thing on earth. He was bored. He hadn't been doing much these past few days. A week ago, he decided to give himself a short vacation from his old life. That also meant no killing - much, anyway. He decided that he should at least try to live like a normal person for once, just to see what it's like. The first step was the whole hotel thing. Next...he absolutely had no idea. He. Was. Bored. This was getting stupid. But before he could even think of a curse to use against himself, a faint ringing caught his attention. He tilted his head towards the coffee table beside the bed and caught sight of his mobile phone, the screen blinking repeatedly to indicate the call. He made a grab for it - need he mention that he was excited to actually have something to do? - and didn't even have to look at who the caller is. Only one person calls him anyway. "Illumi-kun, it's so nice of you to call!" he greeted cheerfully, glad to at least use his mouth on something again. His last decent conversation was with the hotel clerk. That in itself is pathetic. But Illumi's mood didn't seem to agree with his. "Where the hell are you!?" came his demanding voice from the other line. Hisoka noted that Illumi must be running, because he could hear the wheeze of the wind coming past Illumi's mouthpiece, together with the assassin's quick intakes of breath. Hisoka also noted that that was the first time he heard Illumi's voice rise an octave higher than the usual monotone. His interest was quickly awaken. "Uhm, Illu? What are you doing?" he asked, honestly curious. "Just tell me where in hell you are, Hisoka!" came Illumi's impatient tone again. Hisoka could've sworn he heard the other mutter a curse, but quickly laid it aside to answer the question (or order). Upon realizing that he won't be finding the other's room as easily as he usually would, Illumi scolded the magician for a second about the whole room thing ("Why didn't you get the fucking presidential suite, jackass!"), but quickly let it go when another voice came, calling out his name. Hisoka was quite sure Illumi was cursing now. "Er, are you okay? Will you be able to find my room alive and sane, Illumi?" he asked, now curious and confused. But before Hisoka could anticipate a reply from the assassin, his door suddenly burst open and with but a little of his infamous grace, Illumi threw himself in and quickly locked the door behind him. He cast a very startled Hisoka a look and heaved out, "I can manage." "That was fast," remarked the magician after regaining his decency enough to let him speak and store his cellphone away. He was ignored though, for Illumi stayed leaning against the door, listening for any footsteps from outside. It took a while for him to be convinced that the coast was clear, and by then, he finally noticed how tired he was. He was by far more desperate about running away from his family than anything else. Hisoka watched as the person closest to being a 'friend' to him stumbled his way towards the bed. The small, twin sized bed's side sank as it took in the assassin's now still form, the heavy panting muffled by the white pillow. The magician blinked. "Ookay," he drawled, still not believing what he just saw. "That was the freakiest thing I've ever witnessed so far," he commented, eyes trailing back to the door, also disbelieving that the assassin just burst in from there a few minutes ago. But it didn't take long before he looked back at the black head beside him, two pale hands clutching the pillowcase. Hisoka's eyebrow rose playfully. "Just who the hell are you and what did you do to the real Illumi anyway?" he asked. "Water." Hisoka blinked. "Excuse me?" A few seconds passed before Illumi lifted his head from the pillow, only to sink it in again. Only, he was facing the magician this time. "I'm tired. I want something to drink," he said, breathing still heavy. One interesting thing about Illumi was that he's the only one who can order Hisoka around like this and survive. Granted, Hisoka can do the same if the occasion calls for it, but that in itself only increases the oddity of things. But what was most peculiar was the fact that Hisoka would usually give Illumi what he asks, or demands - whichever. And vice versa. Hisoka would've teased Illumi about it, that is if he'd just get rid of his still dazed state. The magician stood up and walked towards the small refrigerator in the room. He took out a small bottle of water and threw it over the assassin, whose hand promptly shot up to catch it. Illumi raggedly sat up and twisted the top off and took a big gulp. It didn't take long for him to finish the whole bottle. "So, what's with you?" Hisoka asked after the assassin laid the bottle on the side table. "And how come you looked like you just ran a marathon? Raging stampede chasing after you?" "You can say that," answered the young man. He closed his eyes, obviously tired, and let himself fall back against the pillows. "My family has grown mad. Even Killua himself is siding with them." He opened his eyes to give Hisoka an exasperated look. "And Karuto! I'm supposed to be her favorite family member and even she is against me!" A slim eyebrow rose from the magician's face as he eyed the other curiously. He straightened up from where he was standing and walked towards the bed, jumping in himself to eye Illumi closer. "That bad? What did you do anyway?" he asked, his hand propping him up as he laid on his side to face the assassin. "Live up to my mid twenties," was the short answer. The pause and Hisoka's faint, "hm?" prompted Illumi to elaborate. And so, with a tired sigh the young assassin opened his eyes and faced the magician beside him. "I'm...betrothed." A pause. A very long pause. And a maybe a minute more just to emphasize the pregnant silence. Hisoka can't help but gawk. "Uh...say that again?" Illumi rolled his eyes and sat up. He shifted and planted both hands on the bed, eyeing Hisoka firmly. "Betrothed," he drawled, his voice ebbing a faint mockery towards the word. "You know, engaged. Affianced. Promised to be married. And in my own personal words, cursed for eternity." Okay, so far on Hisoka's list. One: Illumi's voice lost its monotone. Two: Illumi has by far said seven different swear words of different intensities and repeated them at least twice in a span of ten minutes. Three: Illumi's doesn't seem to care much about his current poise. Sure, he still has that natural grace, but it lost a huge chunk of the usual as far as Hisoka remembered. Four: He just realized that Illumi's getting married. Five, and most probably the last thing he'd expect: Illumi's whining. He had to shake his head to relieve it from his initial surprise. "To who?" he managed to ask. "A girl I met when I was fifteen," said Illumi, frowning. "She's my mother's goddaughter. The only thing I remember about her is that she hates furry animals and likes to torture them as much as she could. Also, she never stopped fawning over me ever since we met and that all I ever wanted to do to her was to throw her over the balcony. My mother was cooing all the while though, so I couldn't really do anything." The bed sank as Illumi fell against it again. Hisoka eyed him suspiciously. "You didn't - by any chance - run away from home, did you?" Silence. Illumi just laid there, staring at the ceiling. Hisoka sighed. "Don't tell me. You decided to hide here, didn't you?" he asked. Okay, so Illumi staying there wasn't that bad of an idea. At least he'll have company. But he's just not about to admit that. He has a reputation to uphold after all. It took a while before Illumi responded. A small upward curve of his lips indicated a mischievous smirk, and Hisoka could've sworn he caught sight of a faint sparkle from those usually blank eyes. The magician did not like that look at all. That was supposed to be his expression, not Illumi's. Maybe they were spending too much time together? But he wasn't able to dwell on this for long because Illumi lifted himself from the bed and leaned back on his elbows, a predatory look in his eyes. That smirk was still there, and it unnerved the magician. But in a way, he couldn't help but stare nonetheless. Illumi. On his bed. Looking as if he was just about ready to pounce on him. It was no big secret that he's attracted to the young assassin, male or otherwise. He just didn't know if Illumi actually knows. As far as he's concerned, Illumi's probably the most dense person one can ever encounter in this damned planet. But Hisoka's thoughts were silenced as Illumi moved closer, leaving but a few inches between them, a pure look of mischief in his eyes. The magician noted that Illumi's looking a lot like Killua right now. He can now see the blood connection between the two siblings. But hell, Killua can never affect him as much as Illumi could, that's for sure. "Actually, I have a better idea," said Illumi, oblivious to the magician's thoughts. "Until I get rid of this whole mess, I want you to pretend to be my lover." End of Chapter 1 A/N: Tada~!!! ^.^ Please review! Feedbacks for this fic are essential because I'm not really sure if I'm continuing this. It's just something one has to write ^^; I don't even know what comes next after this! >0< But I like the plot, so please encourage me, ne? =P
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Part 2
Disclaimers: Hunter X Hunter © Yoshihiro Togashi, Shounen Jump Weekly, Shueisha and Nippon Animation. This fanfic is written for entertainment purposes only. Author's Notes: *still grinning like an idiot* So far, this fanfic had the best feedbacks. Okay, actually, next to Drunk, this had the best/most feedbacks. *looks mildly disturbed by this* Goodness. Had I been any more into lemons, I might write another one, but let's just say I like keeping my age ^.^ Anyway, yeah, I decided to go through with my muse's insanity. I'll do Of Games... little by little. Ideas will be very much welcomed and appreciated. I think I already established the this-is-a-one-time-thing-so-if-I-end-up-with-crap-if-I-continue-it-don't-blame-me issue. So if you people want something to happen, some fiasco Hisoka comes up with - 'cause let's be honest, Illumi is dense - let me know, okay? ^_________^ Oh yeah, and for those who commented that Illumi's OOC. Well, this is a comedy fanfic. You kind of have to expect that ^^; I'll try to keep it to a minimum though. I'm just twisting Illumi's impatience and playfulness up a bit ^.~ And contrary to popular belief, Illumi is not as stiff as some people think he is. He's as playful as Hisoka, if not more. And he does know how to smile. Don't believe me? Go through the manga and episodes again and you'll see what I mean ^.~ Cherrie's Universal Rule When Reading Her Yaoi Pieces states that whomsoever flames her solely for the purpose of bashing the pairing, or homo/bisexuality in general, is an utter scum who doesn't know how to comprehend a warning when he/she sees one. OF GAMES AND ASSASSINS by: Cherrie ( kurapikasama@yahoo.com ) Chapter 2 - Deals and All the Angles Long pauses seemed to make up most of their time as far as Hisoka was concerned. And staring. Lots of staring. Hisoka couldn't help but blink down in amazement when he found himself meeting a pair of cat-like black eyes looking up at him with equal intensity. Had the situation been any less weird, he would've considered jumping the young assassin right then and there. It's not everyday that one would see Illumi with a small smirk, and the whole setting of having him in Hisoka's bed was a bit of a suggestive picture. But...then again there was that issue about whether or not this person really was Illumi. Hisoka's been wondering about that for a while now. The guy's been acting pretty strange since he came. And not to mention his last words that would've left the magician gawking had he been any less in-control of his expressions. Hisoka couldn't help but blink back his surprise yet again. "Uh...excuse me?" he stammered, so carelessly that even he had to mentally wince at his lack of poise in taking in another side of the person across from him. Upon hearing Hisoka's intelligent response, Illumi heaved out an exasperated sigh. Well, as relatively as exasperation was for his passive face anyway. He took a deep breath and gave the other an intent look, as if he was talking to a mere five year old. "Look. It's kind of like this," he said, pulling himself up to level his eyes with that of the magician's. "In due time, Milluki's going to find me (that traitor). And when that time comes, I want to be ready for my family. And after all, if I take in a male lover, my..." he paused and winced, in search of a better word instead of the usual one he and his family would use. But in the end, he couldn't find a better term and just went on, his usual monotone laced with a tinge of bitterness and spite. "...fiancée might get the idea that my preference lies not on her same gender." "Well, where does your true preference lie anyway?" Hisoka couldn't help but ask despite his state. It took a moment for the assassin to respond. He looked elsewhere for a moment, deep in his own thoughts, before looking back at the magician. "I never really thought about it. All I know is that I don't want her," he said, scowling again at the obvious fact that he just thought about the little miss. He looked back at Hisoka after shaking his head. Flicking out a hand in a dismissive manner, thus closing the matter, he shifted back to his own initial topic. "So, how about it?" Hisoka poked his cheek in thought. Okay, so for one thing, even if Illumi didn't say that he's inclined to having a relationship with another man, he didn't say that he wasn't either. And besides, by the looks of it, aside from a posh brat bound to marry Illumi unless circumstances can be helped, the assassin didn't seem to be very much interested in any sort of relationship at all, and would gladly take up the life of a hermit if allowed. This one may be easy enough to change, though. A small grin was beginning to ebb out from Hisoka's lips just by thinking about it, but he hid this to himself lest Illumi becomes suspicious. Instead, he shifted his thoughts on other aspects of the deal the other was after. From many angles, he knew that there were so much to worry about despite the benefits he was just momentarily thinking about, but there was always one that stood among the others. The very thought made him shudder. Hisoka fixed Illumi a displeased gaze and found his voice. "You do realize that your family will be after my head for this, don't you?" he asked, a frown marring his face. But this, Illumi seemed to have expected. That creepy smirk came back to him again, Hisoka noted. "Exactly," he said. "That's why it's you I went to." Hisoka wondered if Illumi was just as deep in thought as he was, or whether or not he had formulated this plan on his way to his hotel. But more or less, the assassin seemed confident enough. Or at least, convinced enough that this was the method he'll be using against the decision of his family. But again, his thoughts were his own and he detached these things from those that he would say out loud. "I kind of thought you went to me because I'm the only one available," he remarked playfully, still buying his time so he'd be able to think a bit more. "That's one reason," Illumi said with a hint of annoyance. Apparently, he wanted to rush things up a bit, as out of character as that may sound. But he really wanted to get away from his 'fate', or so his mother would call it, and Hisoka was stalling. The magician was right though. The whole Zoldick clan might hunt them both down for this, most especially when it was his mother leading the whole patrol. The very picture made him wince. "But other than that, like you said, my family will be after you. You can take my mother and my siblings," he said. "Uh...and your father and grandfather?" "I doubt even the both of us combined with twice our current strength can take them out, but we'll work on that," came Illumi's deadpan answer. Hisoka stared at Illumi for a while, trying really hard to not gawk. There were so many wrong things in this plan that he didn't know where to start. But as Illumi's thoughts were fogged with his desperation to get away from an evil family custom, so was Hisoka's, fogged by the fact that Illumi. Was. In. His. Bed. It also didn't help that the younger man had found his way back on the bed, curling himself a bit to a more comfortable position, staring at Hisoka as he waited for an answer. Ah damn. Any minute now and he'd yield to that desperate look. Sometimes, hormones can be really dangerous things, most especially when one finds his best friend - 'best friend' technically used since Hisoka spends most of his time with Illumi than with anybody else anyway - completely seductive. Not that Illumi meant to be - because again, he's a very dense young man unfortunately - but that didn't seem to change anything. "So," came Illumi's voice again, oblivious to the other's thoughts. He propped himself on one elbow and looked at the magician, daring him to not agree with him. Oh yes, the man's a manipulative bastard even when he himself didn't know it. "I ask you again: How about it?" It seemed to Hisoka that even though he was staring like a wolf would a bunny, Illumi never gave him much thought. How dense can one person get? "What do I get in return for this?" he asked this time, knowing that there wouldn't be any way out with his hormones taking Illumi's side. The assassin sat up - Hisoka didn't know whether the less suggestive position should be welcomed or cursed - and paused for a while, obviously in thought. "I never really thought about that either," he said, tipping his head to one side. Eventually, he shrugged and - to Hisoka's delight - said, "Surely, you wouldn't be after money. I don't know. Name your price." That was a very stupid decision, noted Hisoka despite the fact that he was the one benefiting from it. But then again, Illumi was desperate, and he was dense. How many times had Hisoka established this point anyway? He chose not to say anything against this though and just went on. "Name my price, huh?" he said, a grin spreading in his face. "You sure about that?" "Any price within reason, Hisoka," warned Illumi, somehow reading into the magician's mischief. Hisoka doubted the guy actually connected the grin in his eyes to anything sexual, but he did read something, so he had to give him credit for that. "Let's get that 'within reason' thing clear," said Hisoka, holding up a forefinger. "What does that mean?" Another pause while Illumi thought again. Hisoka expected that, and gladly jumped to his, ahem...best friend's aid. "If you're able to give it without causing fatal harm to yourself physically or whatever, then it's 'within reason'," he offered helpfully, trying to keep his enthusiasm about this conversation in check. "That's fine with me," said Illumi, albeit a bit hesitantly. He was still eyeing Hisoka suspiciously, but he kept his silence for some reason. Hisoka was beginning to like the way this thing was going, so he risked yet another step. "And one more condition," he said, holding up a finger again. Illumi frowned, not much pleased by Hisoka's fickleness. But by his nod, the other continued. "I don't like taking orders from anybody, so if you'll just give me my cue, I'll do my act my way," he said. He tried to keep a stern face unless Illumi reads anything from him again. Though still deep in his own suspicion, the assassin eyed him thoughtfully, possibly weighing the circumstances in his mind. But Hisoka was confident. Illumi's dense, there's always that comforting fact. He'll agree eventually. And as expected, Illumi's face lit up in determination. "Okay," he said finally, leveling his eyes with Hisoka's. "Deal." "Okay," he said as well, holding up a hand. "It's a deal then." Illumi's hand set itself firmly with his in a professional handshake. Hisoka grinned to himself. And so it begins... * * * * * "Here's what I intend to do." Hisoka glanced up as he settled his things down on the carpeted floor. After their last conversation - the one finalizing their deal - there was a great debate on whether or not they should stay at Hisoka's hotel room. The main problem was the subject of the beds. Due to a momentary problem Hisoka blamed on the hotel's fame itself, he was forced to stay at a suite meant for two people, with two twin sized beds pushed up against one side of the room, because the hotel's single suites were all booked during the time of the magician's check-in. He decided to just take the doubles room and just take any of the next available single suites as they come. But one way or another, he didn't feel like moving anymore and decided that something so small a detail as the issue of having a queen-sized bed at least isn't worth the effort of packing his things up again. So there goes the reason for his initial suite. Now, it all seemed fairly simple at first. Illumi would take the other unoccupied bed while Hisoka stayed at his own side. But after much pondering - and much help from his own sick mind - Hisoka raised the notion that they should share the same bed because they were supposed to act as lovers. At first, Illumi's reaction was to give him a hard stare, one that just screamed 'Are you out of your mind?' and warned him of a painful and untimely death. But the magician refused to yield, and explained that male x male relationships were very sexual - he wondered if Illumi was actually bothered by that fact - and if they slept apart and the Zoldick's find out, they might become suspicious. Just for the hell of it, he asked the assassin if either Milluki and Killua was in any way perverted. Illumi frowned, but his answer did not disappoint. Apparently, being the nice big brother that he was, Illumi knew that Milluki and Killua were sharing hentai magazines ever since Killua was 10, and was only hiding this from their mother lest they risk having an earful of her...well, wailing. In a way, Hisoka thought that maybe Illumi wasn't as dense or naive as he thought him to be, and briefly wondered if ever the assassin took a peek from those things, but thought better than to ask. Instead, he went back to why he actually asked him in the first place. A firm shake of the head and a short, "Killua is bound to ask, 'Hisoka is his lover and they sleep apart?'" became the last straw. Hisoka knew that there may be things that may excuse their sleeping practices. For one, unlike Illumi, Killua fully knew just how perverted the magician was. Hisoka didn't mind of course; he actually takes pride in that. So with that settled, Illumi could just say that they need to sleep apart because they won't be able to sleep at all with Hisoka trying to grope him every chance he'd get. Personally, Hisoka thought that that was a plausible reason enough, but he's not going to share that little thought with Illumi. He mentally grinned. He'll jump off a cliff first before he'd actually pass up the chance he just got. So after winning the argument at last, the magician led his sulking companion to the main lobby and asked if he could transfer to a new room. Fortunately, there were a few single suites available this time. After yet another hissed argument regarding the size of the rooms, Hisoka won again by saying that the hotel was luxurious enough to actually mean four when they say room for two. So there they were, in a room with a single queen-sized meant for one or two people. Hisoka hoped that his enthusiasm didn't show too much, and just stayed quiet while Illumi tried to get over the fact that he'll be sharing a bed with a man for a few weeks. The assassin lifted himself up to sit on the table beside the TV, watching his feet sway alternately from the ground to help him calm himself down. It didn't take long for him to accept things as they were - and Hisoka was proud to note that Illumi still didn't hate him despite the way things were - and with one final sigh, turned back to the magician to talk about the things they should do and establish. "By the time they get here, we'll only be showing them glimpses of the two of us together for a few days. I think that would be enough to make them wonder who you are," said Illumi. "If we get lucky, they'll bring Killua along and he would recognize you immediately. Provided that my mother won't get hysterical, Milluki would decide to spy on us for a while. Mother might get impatient, but with a little coaxing from Killua, she'll hold up for a few days." Hisoka gave an obligatory nod to show that he was listening. But while Illumi thought of the possibilities and of what they might expect, Hisoka was thinking of how they were going to act. He didn't know how the other would react to what he intended to do, but since they'll be putting on a show, Illumi can't possibly disagree once they're already under the eyes of his family. Yes, life was good to him so far. Still oblivious of the smirk the other was trying to hide, Illumi continued to speak. "We have to give them the impression that we're lovers before my mother confronts us, though. Words may become awkward, and if she ever gets even a few meters close, rest assured that I'll be dragged home. In chains if need be." "We'll hide from them after they see us, then. It'll be pretty easy," Hisoka said, straightening up. "Y'know, as if they're seeing ghosts." Illumi seemed to like this idea, and he nodded his consent. But Hisoka was far from finished. "But, we also have to give the same impression to the people who might be questioned. Like the receptionists to name a few. If I were your brothers, I'd try to find out where we're staying and begin questioning those that might know something." Illumi visibly frowned. "So...we have to put on a show even when they're not around, is that it?" he asked hesitantly. Hisoka gave him a small grin, hiding the fact that he was taking pleasure in all of these. "Just to be on the safe side, yes," he said. "We're dealing with professionals here, my dear friend. You know your own family, don't you?" For a moment, Illumi looked like he might begin to sulk again. But he regained his composure pretty quickly this time, and just let out yet another defeated sigh. "Fine," he said, and Hisoka had to restrain himself from clapping in his glee. "Anyway, we might as well start today. I didn't bring anything with me, so if you don't mind me borrowing a few thousands, I have to buy a few sets of clothes," he said before jumping down from his perch. "The receptionist was already giving us a few looks while you asked to transfer to a new room, so we don't have to show too much. People will get the idea," he said. "That's fine by me," said Hisoka, who was far too pleased with the situation to mind the fact that he'll only be getting away with a few minor touches for a while. Rummaging around in one of his bags, he pulled out two jackets, taking note of the cold weather outside. He took a dark brown one for himself and handed the black one to Illumi. He was pleased to note that the younger man seemed to be surprised by the gesture. He declined the offer though and just walked wordlessly out the door. Hisoka let out a smirk. Seducing Illumi would be easy, he decided. He threw the jacket on the bed, took a few seconds to savor the thought that he'll be sharing this same bed with somebody - though not exactly the way he wanted to, and walked towards the door from where the other stood waiting for him. They walked in companionable silence - at least, for Hisoka's part - towards the elevator, and walked wordlessly as well until they reached the main lobby. They both discreetly caught the intent stare the young lady behind the receptionist's counter was giving them, and this Hisoka took as his cue to rest his hand upon Illumi's lower back. The magician felt a slight stiffening from Illumi's part, but the younger man kept his calm and just turned his head to look at the other, which Hisoka took advantage of by leaning closer. From the girl's angle, Hisoka knew it would almost look like as if he just gave Illumi a fleeting kiss. He was right, and the girl blushed intently before looking away, but a small grin was on her face. The two walked away from the hotel, and Hisoka caught Illumi watching the girl as well. He waited for a while, and was rewarded when Illumi moved his eyes to him this time, an unreadable expression on his face. It almost seemed blank, but the magician could sense a bit of tension from the other. So to make things less uncomfortable - because he had to admit, they were just just getting used to the initiation of the plan - he gave Illumi a small, mischievous grin and tilted his head to indicate the direction of the female receptionist. Reminded of their success, the tension faded from the young assassin, lost from the sheer feeling of an easy victory. He looked up at Hisoka and responded with his own satisfied smirk. Hisoka was definitely please. Mission 1: Accomplished. End of Chapter 2 A/N: Oh wow. I never had so much fun writing anything so...unplanned! *hearts popping out* It's rare for me to be spontaneous, but I think I'm beginning to like it ^____^ It's almost as if I'm the reader myself because even I don't know what would happen next. Of course, going on like this might put me on a severe case of writer's block, but I trust that I'll love doing this piece so much that I'll be inspired enough to go on on an acceptable pace. Of course, reviews help a lot because my 90% of my huge ego can be run solely by compliments. Of course, you can also point out anything you didn't like so I'd take note of them in the future. Just be gentle when you're criticizing, okay? Truth to be told, criticisms are bad for my health, but I know I need them to improve, so if you don't mind it so much, please use mild words, okay? ^.^ Oh yeah. I'll try doing the next chapter in Illumi's point of view ^.^
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Part 3
Cherrie's Universal Rule When Reading Her Yaoi Pieces applies here. Read chapter 2 for the whole statement. Disclaimers: Hunter X Hunter © Yoshihiro Togashi, Shounen Jump Weekly, Shueisha and Nippon Animation. This fanfic is written for entertainment purposes only. Author's Notes: Okay, so I said that I'll try writing in Illumi's POV, but Hisoka just always hogs the narration for some strange reason. Maybe because I like the way his mind works, plus we get along when it comes to lusting after Illumi. *blinks* Does a minor have the right to say that? Eh, what the hell >=P I blame my currently insane tendencies to ff-mistress and her excellent Hisoka x Illumi fanfics lately. I dedicate this chapter to you, girl! You made a swell job making my day! ^____^ Keep them fics coming! ^.~ OF GAMES AND ASSASSINS by: Cherrie ( kurapikasama@yahoo.com ) Chapter 3 - The Makings of a Rebel Kikyou Zoldick was furious, and to everyone who greatly knew her, 'Kikyou' and 'fury' never went well together. "WHAT DO YOU MEAN 'YOU LOST HIM'!?!?!?" Killua winced, but he was somehow pleased to note that he wasn't the only one. His father, Sillva Zoldick, who also owned the unfortunate shoulder to catch his wife's sobs, seemed to be almost tempted to shudder, but suppressed it just in time to stand stiffer than his usual as the distressed mother allowed herself to fall on his arms, sobbing like there was no tomorrow. "Oh my baby! Why did he leave mama now that she'll be entertaining her guests soon!?" she asked to no one in particular, taking comfort from the heavy hand trying to comfort her. Her wails subsided after a few minutes, and a servant approached her close enough to hand her a white handkerchief. Kikyou took it without a word of thanks and just dabbed on the tears on her cheeks. Killua shifted in his place, all too used to this scene to actually be bothered. After all, more than half the time, he was the reason why his mother would cry anyway, and he'd always be on the receiving end of all the blame. He supposed that he's been immune to the pitiful state his mother would always sink in every time she's in one of her hysterical moments. Oblivious to her third son's thoughts, Kikyou took one final sniffle and turned to the young girl beside Killua. She held out a hand and beckoned the girl to come to her, which the child did after a moment's hesitation. "Karuto dear," Kikyou started in a surprisingly sweet voice. She's well-known for her ability to shift her ear-crushing screeches to the most melodious voice you'd ever hear, and within reason. She could coax anything out of anybody, especially her children, who knew the consequences of denying her anything fully well. "Tell mama what happened exactly." Karuto bowed her head, refusing to meet her mother's eyes. She's really a quiet child. Not exactly shy, but she's ever so demure. "Well," she said, her pale hands going around behind her so she can play with her fingers. "Killua and I followed Oniisan up to the third nearest town. But once there, he took a booked airship towards a nearby island, so it almost looked like we won't be able to follow him. But Milluki came in riding his balloon and took us to follow the airship. The airship was much faster, but we were able to see where it landed. Oniisan had at least a few minutes to gain distance, but we caught sight of him eventually." "A booked flight!?!? You mean this was actually a planned escape!?" Kikyou was just about to burst into hysterics yet again, but Sillva thankfully stopped her by placing his hands on each of her shoulders. He cast his narrow eyes down his daughter. "Go on, Karuto. What happened when you found him?" he asked with his low and heavy voice. "We tried to chase after him," said the young girl. "Milluki stayed up at his ballon so we won't lose him, but somehow, Oniisan caught sight of Milluki and took up his pace. First, he tried losing Milluki by going through some alleys. By the time we can't see the balloon anymore, Oniisan took his cellphone out and called somebody. He started to look around him, and after leading us in circles, he finally disappeared." Sillva took a while to take this information in. "And who is this 'somebody'? Did he say a name?" "He said a name, but I couldn't hear it right," answered Karuto. Sillva looked at Killua. "Did you hear the name he mentioned?" he asked. "No. I was a few paces behind Karuto, just in case Aniki takes a different turn," was the young, white-haired boy's answer. Truth to be told, Killua had a small inkling on who his brother called, but since he was the only member of his family who knew about Illumi's strange choice of associates, he decided to keep his mouth closed about the matter. And after all, he wasn't completely sure that he was right. Illumi's always been one to hide his private life, if he ever had one. Kikyou's sobs were evident now. "What will I say to Reina when she finds out that Illumi won't be here to welcome her and Hime-chan?" she asked, again, to no one in particular. But all her questions all seem to be directed to her husband anyway. He's always the one solving things for her after all. Two strong fingers reached up to draw easing circles on Sillva's temple. Personally, he didn't want to get himself into these sort of problems, but his wife made a very big issue over her social status. Like most women from the elite group, she valued the way people look at her. She and her sisters would always compete against each other, and being the youngest, Kikyou took pride at the fact that she was the most successful one of them all. It was a custom among families of high status to use their children to gain more respectable points with others and to gain more connections, and Kikyou just won't take no for an answer when it comes to a chance to help her step up the ladder. The head of the Zoldick house eyed his children intently. "Karuto, you stay here with mama and keep her company. Grandfathers Mahha and Zeno will also stay here, and the three of us will be the ones filling in your assassination assignments for the time being. Milluki, Killua and Alluka, you three go after Illumi and whoever he's currently with." Milluki groaned, intensely repulsed by the idea that he'll have to get away from his computers. He cast his younger brothers a look of disdain, his awful mood intensified by the thought of having two brats for brothers with him the whole time. Killua rolled his eyes, not even bothering to give Milluki back the look of distaste. He was too happy to be given a reason to get out of their dark and damp mansion again. After all, he only came back here so he can shove it to Illumi's face that he's marrying his most hated woman in the world. Illumi, being the cold person that he was, hardly ever felt anything for anybody, may it be emotional attachment or spite. But this girl was an exception. Illumi truly hated her guts. Hannah Schwartz, or more vastly known as Hime-chan due to her spoiled princess act, was the daughter of one his mother's most highly respected friends. Killua didn't really know what her family really did, and it's not like he actually cared. What he did know though was that this marriage would mean a lot to Kikyou, and most especially to the overzealous Hime-chan. He only saw the girl once or twice during his younger years, and though she was pretty enough with fine, dark-brown curls hanging down her petite face, one can't help but wince at the way she dotted on Illumi, almost as if he was the only one in existence every time they're together. The white-haired Zoldick child suspected that she was the reason why his eldest brother chose to grow his hair, probably in hopes to lose a bit of his masculine points. Killua savored these types of family problems. He believed that they're necessary to bring a bit of life into the whole boring Zoldick thing. Completely forgetting about Milluki and his cold glare, Killua turned to the pale, raven-haired boy next to him. "Yo, Alluka, you rarin' to go?" he asked. Alluka's dark eyes reflected the very same mischief his older brother had in his own. For a boy of 10, Alluka was just as stubborn as the boy he went after, and though he liked Illumi as most young boys would respect their older brother, he still couldn't help but draw a sick sort of pleasure from the family's current state. "Ready when you are," he said, returning the grin. From behind them, Milluki sighed and pulled the two younger boys from their back collars. "Yeah yeah, just get yourselves ready and we'll leave," he said, ushering the boys out of the room. But the two were not in the least bit daunted. "Poor Illumi," said Killua, resting his head on his clasped hands as they walked. "I mean, it's been a decade since he met his walking nightmare, and now he actually has to live every single day of his life under the same same roof as the royal bubble-head." Milluki scoffed, voicing his disagreement. "I don't know what the hell's wrong with Aniki. I mean, you don't expect women to have both beauty and brains and still be rich at the same time. Hime-chan is a pretty hot babe, and I'd be more than happy to overlook her slightly childish enthusiasm. I mean, what decent man won't enjoy a woman idolizing him? Besides, you don't need much brains when you're in bed anyway." "Eew, keep your sick thoughts to yourself, Milluki!" Alluka said, inching himself away from the bigger boy. "Not everyone shares the same sentiments!" "Oh put a sock in it, Alluka. You'll start seeing the opposite sex differently by the time you reach puberty." "That's disgusting!" Killua rolled his eyes and shook his head, leaving his two brothers to argue amongst themselves. He briefly wondered where Illumi really was right now. He looked back at Milluki, who was by now clearly man-handling Alluka for even disagreeing with him about something he said about sex. Killua winced. His fat brother may be smart, but he can be pretty shallow and - no pun intended - pig-headed when it comes to more mature topics. "Yo, Millu," he called, making the older Zoldick look up to regard him. "How do you intend to find Aniki anyway?" Milluki's face brightened up. Uh-oh, thought Killua. He'll start yapping about his inventions again and explain all the concepts that a kid his age won't even understand. "Oh, that's pretty easy!" said the overweight teen, and Killua considered covering his ears and banging his head on a wall for even asking. Unfortunately, he did neither because Milluki had spoken almost immediately. "You see, all of the cellphones dad gave all of you are made by me. Have I told you that?" Like, ten times a day, you fat pig, thought Killua. "Anyway, right below the main memory chip, I placed a sensor with a very powerful antenna that will then connect to one of my computers. It will be presented through some sort of radar..." * * * * * "Uh...tell me again why you're throwing your cellphone off the island?" Hisoka watched as Illumi took a step back before throwing the small machine towards the open waters of the bay. There was a light 'plop' as the cellphone dropped to the surface and dove down the deep waters, visibly moved away by the currents. A small smirk was playing on the pale assassin's lips. "Let Milluki have a bit of a challenge," he said, his eyes still fixed on the spot where his old cellphone disappeared to. "Intelligent as he is, he is far too proud of himself to keep accomplishments to himself. By telling us over and over again that he was the one who made our cellphones, he all but declared some sort of spying mission father assigned to him. That thing is bound to betray my location." "You do realize that you're completing your whole rebel image with the thing's you're doing, don't you?" asked the magician with an evident tinge of amusement on his voice. "Who would've thought that goody-goody Illumi would actually go against family orders?" Illumi let out a deep grunt and turned back from the rickety wooden extension back to concrete ground. He shrugged as Hisoka fell in step with him, and they walked away from the docks. The magician was very much intrigued now. How could someone as obedient as Illumi go so much as run away from home just because of some girl he's supposed to marry? "Ne, Illu," he said, not anymore able to keep himself from asking. "Why do you hate this girl so much anyway? Y'know, marriage is just some superficial connection people engage into so they'd have a material basis regarding whom they live their lives with. I mean, you can still go on as if nothing happened." Illumi visibly frowned and cast the other a dark look. "She is too dumb to realize that. To her, being married to me would mean that we'll live happily ever after on some enchanted castle far from civilization." Bad-mouthing, speaking in sentences with more than 10 words, voice rising up from the usual monotone...this was definitely a most intriguing situation if it brought out the worst in the usually soft-spoken assassin. He wondered how far Illumi's temper would bring him. Surely, he won't be so hard on him once his dark motives were revealed. After all, what were all those years of loyal companionship for? Hisoka shook his head to clear his mind from these thoughts for a while, and just settled on the current situation. Linking his arm with the assassin's own, he pulled him close enough to playfully rest his chin on the other's shoulder. "Ne, I'll buy you a really expensive dinner if you tell me all about your little girlfriend!" he offered generously, tugging on the arm to emphasize his enthusiasm. "She is not my girlfriend," Illumi said defensively, his firm voice dripping with venom. Hisoka grinned. "Oh yeah, you're with me right now, aren't you? We wouldn't want you two-timing me, would we?" he mocked, playfully curling two fingers on Illumi's fine silk tresses. The midnight-colored locks sensually ran through his touch, then went on cascading down back to their owner's slender shoulders. The magician found himself staring at the sheer beauty of it. He briefly wondered how much time Illumi spends on his hair to make it look and move like that. For Illumi's part, Hisoka was pleased to note that the young assassin didn't even flinch at his touch. He was glaring, but not because of Hisoka's touching his hair. "You find a really sick pleasure from my pains, don't you?" he accused, taunting the magician in his own way by not being bothered by their proximity. There was a really suggestive sexual innuendo on Illumi's last statement, though whether or not he actually noticed, Hisoka wasn't sure. But he really didn't know if it mattered, and his amusement with the remark was betrayed by the manic smile on his face. "Would it surprise you if I do, Illumi?" he asked, his voice overflowing with milk and honey. Which, even Illumi knew, never meant anything good. The assassin scoffed and rolled his eyes, briefly stepping away to push the other's hand off him. "That's enough of your sadistic fetishes, Hisoka" he said. Okay, so Hisoka had to admit, Illumi's not as clueless as he thought. Maybe he really did read those magazines his brothers owned. At least he's picking some things up. The magician wondered if the other thought that he really was just playing around, and whether or not that was such a bad thing. Illumi, still oblivious to the other's turn of thoughts, glared at the magician sharply for a moment, which only earned him an innocent grin. Resisting the urge to roll his eyes again, he just went on walking. Hisoka stayed where he was for a while, smirking as he watched Illumi's moving form. Yes, he was clearly enjoying himself. Illumi was always the one to get rid of his life's boring roads. He was certainly welcome whenever the magician had nothing to do, and it was always fun taunting him. Probably because he was the only who wouldn't run away screaming like mad once Hisoka got into his creepy tendencies. He could even say that Illumi knew him well, and he was pleased with that thought. His thoughts were immediately cut off when he sensed a cold spark come up his back, causing the hairs on his nape to stand. He looked up and sure enough, there Illumi was, glaring daggers at him. Something in that look urged him to move. To many people, Illumi's eyes would convey nothing, but that was because Illumi meant it to be that way. But Hisoka certainly knew a glare when he sees one. "Coming~!" he sang, mainly to further annoy his companion. He ignored the exasperated look on the other's face and just proceeded on linking their arms together again. "Must you do that?" Illumi asked, fixing a pointed stare at their linked arms. "But of course!" replied the magician, tightening his hold. "We'll never know. What if your family gets lucky and finds us almost immediately, right?" He gave Illumi his sweetest smile. Of course, both of them knew that he was more likely to move a mountain a mile off with that smile than to actually affect Illumi with it. "Really," drawled the younger man, giving the magician a look of pure sarcasm. "Whatever, Hisoka. As long as it's not me latching all over you, I'm fine with anything," he said, sighing. Hisoka grinned. Watch your words, he all but sang in his head, a warning directly for the assassin beside him. But he voiced nothing out, and just continued to walk beside the other, reminding himself to keep a tally of Illumi's words. One may never know when he'll be able to use them against him. End of Chapter 3 A/N: Karuto called Illumi 'oniisan' while she called Milluki, Killua and Alluka by their designated names. Just for this fanfic alone, I would like to clear up that the terms 'oniisan' and 'aniki' will be given solely for Illumi because it might cause confusion to have them all called that. There are four boys, y'know XP Yay! I'm writing faster than my usual pace! ^.^ If I get lucky, I'll reach up to chapter 6 or 7 before school starts =P I'm currently reading the required novel for our book report (stupid bookstores only had the new stocks now *grumbles*), so I might get delayed sometimes, but I'll try really hard to keep on writing. Please send me feedbacks! Knowing what you people want may inspire me and give me new ideas, and kind words are always the best tools to urge me on ^.^
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Part 4
Cherrie's Universal Rule When Reading Her Yaoi Pieces applies here. Read chapter 2 for the whole statement. Disclaimers: Hunter X Hunter © Yoshihiro Togashi, Shounen Jump Weekly, Shueisha and Nippon Animation. This fanfic is written for entertainment purposes only. Author's Notes: Just in case somebody steps on my face for my originality, I would like to say that I'll be using Yomi-san's nicknames for the Zoldick children. Y'know, her 'Illu', 'Millu' and 'Allu's ^.^ I find them really cute. Yomi-san, I hope you don't mind ^^v Also, in the Hunter world, they have different kinds of animals like the fox-bear, wolf-rat, etc. But since I'm not much familiar with them, I figured that they still have the conventional domestic animals for food. You know, like chickens, cows, pigs...the like. Besides, I don't want to imagine eating something that looks weird XP Oh, and as for the asparagus...yeah, okay, so I used it before, but what the hell. I like cream of asparagus! XP Oh yeah, forgot to post this up in chapter 3. I just opened up an Illumi fanlisting. If you're a fan of Illumi, please fill out the form and sign up. It's quite simple, so please join. I'd be forever grateful and I'll dedicate future chapters to whoever will sign up ^____^ Here's the URL: Grrr...why can't FF.net stop being such an ass and let me post website addresses!?!? For those who can't see it, I'll just change my personal website address and put the fanlisting add. For those interested, just check out my profiles, okay? ^^ *stomps off cursing FF.net* OF GAMES AND ASSASSINS by: Cherrie ( kurapikasama@yahoo.com ) Chapter 4 - The Search "Argh!!!" Milluki's laments of frustration rang through the whole room. The crunching sound of crisp potato chips were clear and audible beside the distressed cries. It was a known fact that the second Zoldick child consumed more food - as unbelievable as it may sound - when he's terribly upset. "I can't believe him! How could he do this!?!? I'm his freakin' brother for cryin' out loud!!!" A series of worse curses echoed through the stone walls. Killua merely sighed as he waited for his supposedly older brother's tantrum to reside. He sneaked a sidelong glance at his younger brother, who seemed to be just as exasperated as he was. "Geez. You'd think Oniisan just stole a bag of his favorite cookies or something," remarked the raven-haired boy, his eyes rolling in pure sarcasm as a chair flew across the room. His dark eyes followed its progress, up until it crashed on the gray wall. He smirked. "I guess this means Milluki would be spending more time with us, huh?" Killua shrugged. "Oh well. I guess nothing can be perfect in this world," he said, casting a smug smirk towards the bigger boy in front of them. "We should get packing. We did say we're leaving today, didn't we?" * * * * * The restaurant was quiet. Illumi noticed that aside from a couple generating more sap and honey than a tree sporting five bee hives, the place was pretty much deserted except for he and his companion. It was around 2 in the afternoon. According to Hisoka, he liked this restaurant when it was quiet, so he would usually insist on taking a late lunch. The place seemed to be the magician's favorite since the waitresses seemed to know him quite well. They smiled at them both earlier, and they greeted his companion with a friendly, "Nice to see you again, Hisoka-san". It wasn't their first time there. In fact, now that Illumi thought about it, that was the third time they've eaten at the place because Hisoka kept on insisting that they take different dishes every time they go there. Illumi eyed Hisoka carefully. The magician was strangely cheerful that day, and was almost near glowing, in lack of better words. It only increased the anxiety the assassin was already feeling. Okay, so Hisoka has always been strange, and half the time Illumi found himself not understanding how the other's mind worked, but really. Sometimes, the young assassin would just wonder if his brother was right and that Hisoka really was a psychopath. It's been two days but nothing much happened yet. If ever he actually had any problems, it was all due to Hisoka's enthusiasm and amusement for having to put up an act for people to misunderstand. By now, he wouldn't be surprised if he found out that the whole staff of the hotel they were staying at knew who he and Hisoka was. The magician seemed to live to lie, Illumi noted. He was a natural at how the human mind worked, and he enjoyed twisting other people's thoughts as much as he could. He briefly wondered where his family was. Were they looking for him? Before he left, he found out that the girl he was supposedly cursed to eternity with would be coming to their house for a visit a few weeks from then. That was the last straw, and he knew that he just had to get away. Sighing, Illumi buried himself deeper behind the newspaper he held up to his face, seeing the words yet not really understanding them. He never really cared much for current events and only picked up the newspaper when he was really desperate for something to read. Sometimes, when he had to eat in public, he would pick up the papers under the pretense of reading just so he would avoid any attention. He winced, remembering those times he had with his fiancée. He couldn't remember a time he spent during his younger days without her tailing behind him like some sick puppy. He never understood her problem. True, he knew he had striking features - and whenever he would forget, she would always be there to remind him - but he never really gave himself much thought. But he supposed that people were just strange, and when they have nothing better to do with their individual lives, they go around messing with other people's own. He let out yet another sigh. "Oh come on. The news can't be that bad," said a voice from across from him. "What does it say? 'Spoiled rich girl, deep in depression over killer fianc's disappearance'? I kind of thought that would make you happy." Pulled back from his own thoughts, Illumi looked up to pull the papers he was supposed to be reading down, revealing a familiar face grinning up at him. There was an air of smugness coming from that expression, and Illumi thought back on what the other had just said. He cast the other a sardonic look. "I'm dying with laughter," he drawled sarcastically, folding the newspaper neatly and setting it aside. Hisoka gave out a mock sigh and shook his head. Quite exaggeratedly, Illumi noted. "Illumi Illumi Illumi..." chanted the magician, further infuriating the man across from him. But either he didn't see, or he chose to ignore the glare he was receiving. "You should stop thinking too much. Worrying causes wrinkles, you know," he said, waving a finger tauntingly in front of the assassin's face. "I am not worrying," defended Illumi. He then scowled at the finger in front of him. "And get that thing off my face lest you want me to break it." Hisoka obeyed the order, but not because of the threat. In fact, he even looked amused at it. "Ah! There, see? You're so tense, and that's not good." Illumi's frowned, and was about to retort when an especially cheerful waitress came by with a tray in one hand. "Here are you orders, sorry for the wait!" she said, perkiness ebbing through her very tone alone. Great, Illumi thought. I sit here brooding about my current life and it seems as if people around me are on some holiday I don't know about. "It's never a bother, dear Katie. The wait is always worth it," said Hisoka, gracing the girl with a charming smile. Illumi had to raise an eyebrow at that, and a raised eyebrow from the usually indifferent Zoldick was a true indication that something really was amiss. But still, the assassin had to admit that Hisoka could be charming if he wanted to. Perhaps he just didn't notice because half the time he spent with the other, Hisoka was killing some poor fool who dumbly got in his way. The waitress, Katie as Hisoka called her, beamed at Hisoka and moved her arm lower so she can reach for the dishes they've ordered. In front of Illumi, she placed a plate with a generous serving of grilled chicken in white sauce, sided with a lovely potato salad topped with a variety of vegetables and spices. To Hisoka, she gave a steak almost of the same size, sided with his own serving of vegetables. She also placed a small plate of parsley rice, a rice dish Hisoka seemed to particularly like. She then proceeded on taking away the empty bowls that once held the two's soups of creamed asparagus. "There you go. Enjoy your meal!" bade Katie. She then turned around, and had she been any more energetic, Illumi could've sworn she would've skipped. Noticing Illumi's look, Hisoka grinned and leaned over the table. "People who work here are bored stiff. Not everyone can afford this place, and those who actually can are like cardboard models that came alive. So a small 'thank you for the excellent service' and a few 'you seem especially blooming today' here and there, and these girls are bound to latch themselves to you and serve you with the brightest smiles," he said in a tone merely above a whisper, tipping his head towards the leaving waitress. Illumi's lips curved into a smile. A very small movement, but it was an accomplishment for Hisoka's part nonetheless. "You really enjoy playing with people, don't you?" he accused, casting the other a knowing look. Hisoka placed a hand on his chest and mocked a gasp. "Illumi, you wound me," he said dramatically, giving the other an indignant pout. "I honestly mean well. And is it so awful to try and liven things up a bit? I want a more cheerful service and these people want more outspoken customers. It works both ways!" Illumi shook his head and said nothing more, but a small smile of amusement was upon his face. On the other end of the table, Hisoka congratulated himself for doing an excellent job in helping Illumi loosen up. He was, after all, telling the truth about the other thinking too much. Perhaps Illumi still felt uncomfortable. It wasn't in his nature to go against orders, and this seemed to be the first time that he actually turned his back from his family. It's been two days, but who knows how the other's mind worked anyway? Oblivious to the two, two pairs of eyes watched intently as Hisoka stopped staring and proceeded on picking up his fork. A series of muffled giggles sounded behind the main counter, and the exasperated cashier had to look at the two girls behind him. "Really," he said, casting the girls a pointed look. "Don't you two have anything better to do?" Instead of the desired effect, he only earned himself a hand on his mouth and a hissed "Not too loud!", and yet another bout of giggles. This made the cashier roll his eyes. "Oh come on, don't be so uptight," said the taller girl. The name tag clearly showed the name 'Lisa' in black, bold letters. "Don't tell us you didn't notice it either." "Yeah," said the other girl, Katie. "Hisoka-san never brought anybody here. This is the first time he actually did!" she said, an obvious amount of excitement in her high-pitched voice. "That doesn't mean anything," said the young man behind the cash register. "Maybe they're friends. You girls and your sick fantasies. Not every pair of men that sit across from each other are lovers." "Oh please! Look at them, you idiot," scoffed Lisa, pointing the taller man towards the table in what she hoped was a discreet movement. "See the way they look at each other?" "They're looking down at their food, innocently eating." "Not that! The fleeting glances! You men are so dense," said Lisa, rolling her eyes. Deeming their co-worker a lost cause, she instead gave her attention back to Katie, who was just as happy sharing her enthusiasm at the prospect of having such a rare type of customers. * * * * * "We've been walking around for three damned hours and it's way past lunch! We have to stop and get something to eat!" Killua rolled his eyes and ignored his older brother's voice. Cellphone held in hand, he instead gave his attention to the other boy his age that he was just about exchanging messages with. He'd rather drop dead and rot before he actually agrees to spend his entire time with this whining pig behind his back. Alluka wasn't bad a companion, which was actually part of the reason why thought of contacting his best friend. Maybe the two would get along once they met. Wouldn't their mother be furious when she finds out that Killua's sharing his friends with his brother, thus influencing him to go against the 'rules'. But what the hell, thought Killua. If Illumi's running around breaking every family rule one could think of, why wouldn't he be allowed to go on with his business? The young boy beside Killua was the one unfortunate enough to respond to their older brother. "Oh cut it out, Milluki. Is it my fault you two overslept? Maybe if you two hadn't stayed up the whole night watching that disgusting porn movie, we could've started earlier. And besides, you've passed by every food stall in the city and bought half their snacks. I really doubt you're dying of hunger," drawled Alluka, who held as much, if not more, disrespect for his fat brother as Killua did. Milluki cared crap for all of them and only found happiness behind women's clothes and his computers, so Alluka figured that there's no amount of affection to actually be given back. "You call a bunch of hotdogs lunch!?" retorted the eldest of the three. "If you're talking about six hotdogs in less than 30 minutes, YES, that was lunch!" countered the raven-haired boy. Merely listening to the argument behind him, Killua grinned at the message he just received. His moods were particularly brought up, so he then turned to the two. "Aren't you hungry yet, Allu? If I remember it right, Milluki's the one who was always eating. We haven't had a bite yet, so maybe we can pass by some place here to quench the fatal hunger our dear brother over here is feeling?" "Oh!" Milluki perked up at an instant. "I scanned through the list of the best restaurants here around the city before we came here. I saw this place that makes really mean steaks!" he said, excited at the idea of finally having something to put into his bulging stomach. "But of course," said Alluka, pure sarcasm flowing through his boyish voice. "Ask him to find Oniisan and he'll throw a tantrum and ask for three days, but when it comes to food, he'll get the best places in a mere nanosecond." Milluki cast Alluka a menacing glare but chose not to say anything. Instead, he just lifted his chin up high and grunted at the younger boy. "I'll forget you even said that. Anyway, I know just the place. Follow me!" * * * * * Hisoka had to suppress a smirk. He had noticed the three's conversation right after the cashier spoke a tad bit too loudly. He couldn't say he wasn't amused. Stealing a glance towards the person across from him, he was pleased to note that he wasn't the only one who noticed the supposedly discreet exchange. "I agree with the boy. Don't they have anything better to do?" asked Illumi, casting a wary glance at the girls from the corner of his eyes. "And what fleeting glances?" Hisoka had to keep himself from laughing. "I told you. Cardboard customers, remember? It's like watching the same silent movie over and over again. Leave them be, they need a good show every once in a while," he said. He gave Illumi a thoughtful glance before reaching out across the table. He placed a finger under the younger man's chin - marveling at the smooth skin underneath his touch - and urged the other to stop looking elsewhere and just look at him instead. Hisoka's face broke into a self-satisfied smirk at the small look of surprise on the young assassin's face. "What do you say we give them what they want?" he asked, his tone low and menacing, dripping with pure, unadulterated mischief. The hushed giggles didn't escape Illumi's keen hearing, and he had to roll his eyes at the sheer shallowness of some people. But he brought himself back to the man across from him, taking note of the light twinkle in those dark eyes. After dismissing Hisoka's earlier move as just some playful act of a staged intimacy, he instead thought about the magician's proposition. "We do need to practice, you know," offered Hisoka. Illumi sighed. He shrugged, and looked up at the magician. "If you feel like playing around with people's minds, then I'm not stopping you," he said dismissively. Hisoka grinned. A few moments later, Katie was back with yet another tray. A deep tinge of pink was on her cheeks, an obvious sign of giggling for a full three minutes. Two tall glasses of strawberry flambé were then presented to the two while their empty plates were being cleared up. "Enjoy your desserts!" she said. Illumi didn't think it was possible, but she sounded even more enthusiastic when she said that. He took up the dessert spoon beside the glass and buried it on the seriously inviting vanilla ice cream. But instead of picking up a spoonful, he stilled, noticing from the corner of his eyes that the girl still stood beside their table. He stole a glance up, and indeed, she was eyeing them both with a curious look on her bright, young eyes. Confused, Illumi gave Hisoka a look, which the other then returned before looking up at the quiet waitress. "Yes, is there anything else, Katie?" he asked, addressing the girl with her name again. After a few heartbeats, Katie lifted a hand to her cheeks in what seemed like a thoughtful look. "I hope you don't mind me asking Hisoka-san, but..." he looked at the two alternately, only to land again on Hisoka after two sets of exchanges. "Are you two...uhm, you know..." Illumi knew that Hisoka understood what the girl was trying to ask. As if the small smirk on the man's lips wasn't clue enough. "Well," continued the young lass. "Ben there, behind the cash register, insisted against it, but Lisa and I swear that you two look like you're..." She stopped to take a deep breath. "Lovers." A few seconds passed, grueling moments that Hisoka stretched to make the young girl fidget more nervously in place. But he immediately gave her a smile just when she looked like she was about to bolt off, and propped his elbow on the table, resting his chin on his hand. "So you noticed," he said in a light and friendly tone. "Might I ask what gave it away?" Illumi, who watched the magician's every move, caught the latter casting him a brief glance. Illumi was then graced with a playful wink, and this Katie obviously caught by the brightening blush she had on her cheeks. The young girl was beaming, obviously thrilled with the 'confession'. "Nothing much, Hisoka-san. Just...this and that," she said, gracing Illumi with a sweet smile this time. Illumi didn't smile back, but instead gave the girl a polite nod of acknowledgement. Katie seemed to have excused him as one of those quiet types, and found it extremely cute because she looked like she was suppressing her giggles, and just accepted the response quite contentedly. "I hope you're satisfied with our answer then?" asked Hisoka, gaining back Katie's attention. "Very much, yes!" gushed the waitress. She then thanked them and apologized for prying, as most polite people were wont to do. She bid the two a good meal, and if one would look closely, there was a triumphant grin on her face as she approached the cash register. "Well that was certainly interesting," commented the assassin as he continued to scoop out more of his dessert. Hisoka laughed. "I had fun," he said, doing the same thing as the other with his own dessert. "I was actually considering whether or not I would spoon-feed you in front of her, but I think the small conversation was enough," he added, savoring the look he got from the other. "Is it just me or are you a bit too enthusiastic about this whole thing?" asked the assassin suspiciously. Again, the magician merely laughed. "Am I?" he asked, not in the least bit betraying his own thoughts about the matter. Illumi wondered if there really was anything to be betrayed at all. He looked genuinely amused. "If I am, does it give me enough excuse to be allowed to spoon-feed you?" The glare went off without even missing a beat. "Don't push it," he warned. Receiving nothing but yet another grin, he sighed. "Forget it. I don't think I'd be able to--" The assassin's light tenor faded and his words were cut off. His dark eyes were set on a point behind Hisoka's shoulders. Hisoka, upon noticing the other's distraction, blinked twice before turning his head to look at whatever it was that caught the other's attention. Narrow eyes met with three distinct figures at a distance as they looked at both sides before crossing the road. "Well it's about time," remarked the magician as his eyes continued to follow the three's progress. "They're coming this way," said Illumi. He fixed his eyes from his siblings back to the man across him. "We have to go." Hisoka nodded and took out a number of bills from his pocket and placed it under his plate. Together with Illumi, he stood up and turned to the three people on the counter. "Gotta run, so just keep the change, all right?" he said, giving the three a wide grin. Katie and Lisa happily waved while the young man, Ben, bade him a courteous "Thank you and good day, sir." "We have to go out right after they enter. They won't chase after us," said Illumi, his voice low. There was yet another light tinkle of girlish giggles coming from the counter, and he didn't even have to look to see just who the girls were ogling over. He had to stop himself from glaring at them and just kept his attention towards the other door. "They won't? How do you know?" asked Hisoka. Illumi didn't say anything, but merely pointed at the fat boy patting his huge stomach and all but drooling at the mere sight of the menu outside. "Oookay," said Hisoka with a strange expression. "Your family's really strange, have I told you that?" he teased, but merely earned himself a glare. But as always, he wasn't in the least bit taunted. As a last minute act of boldness, he lifted his arm and placed it around Illumi's shoulder. The assassin visibly tensed and cast him a stern look, one which Hisoka just dismissed by placing a finger on his smirking lips. "Ssh. They're almost here," he remarked instead. As if on cue, the bell above the door rang as the three entered. Killua, whose attention was still on the cellphone he held in his hand, ignored the sounds of the door on the other side of the restaurant, dismissing it as just another set of customers entering or leaving the place. Milluki was still looking over the menu he snatched from the front steps, so his attention was just as occupied. It was Alluka who pulled them both back from their own little worlds. "Oniisama!" Alluka would never call Killua that. Formalities weren't held between the two kids, and if anything, Killua was 'oniichan' or just plain 'Killua' for the other boy. One thing about Alluka was that he hardly ever used any sort of formality for anybody save for three people. Namely, that was their father, their mother, and last but definitely not the least, their feared eldest brother whose very presence demanded respect. And so, with that said, Killua's eyes immediately widened in attention as he looked down at his younger brother to see where he was pointing at. And sure enough, the pale finger spoke true, and just by the other door stood two distinct figures that Killua swore were born from his very nightmares. The first thing he looked at was the unreadable stare that was his brother's gaze alone. It was undeniably Illumi, if the death-white skin and contrasting hair weren't clue enough. But the young Zoldick's eyes didn't rest there, and they immediately settled on another familiar pair of eyes, their distance doing little to dim their bright sparkle. But that wasn't all. Hisoka - if it truly was Hisoka, but then Killua noted that he was supposed to be expecting that anyway - had an arm around Illumi, and his brother wasn't even doing anything to get rid of him at all. His eyes were solely on him alone, and Killua felt a cold spark up his spine at the revelation that it was he whom Illumi was looking at. He could've sworn he saw a small smirk lift up from the corners of his brother's pale lips, which only increased his shock. It was all he could take and his jaw dropped to the floor. "Killua, what are you doing!? He's right there!!!" Alluka's frantic voice woke him up from his shocked stupor. Killua looked down at the younger boy all but tearing at his sleeve, and was just about to do as the other told him to had it not been for the fact that when he looked up, the two figures were gone. "What in the blue hell--?" "We have to go after them!!!" came Alluka again. And they were just about to do just that, but a slight tug stopped them in their tracks. "Oh no, we can't leave now," said Milluki, giving them both a stern look. "But...but he--" Alluka stuttered, confusion and rage mixing up in his childish face. "Look. Do you two honestly think we can go after two people who disappeared at the blink of an eye? We didn't even catch the direction they went to." "We can split up!!!" Milluki sighed and addressed the less frantic boy in front of him. "Killua, you remember what happened last time, don't you?" He then turned back to the younger boy beside Killua. "We're mere pups compared to Aniki on a chase. It's enough that we know he is here. What we have to do now is to find out where he's staying." "But he could leave at any moment!!!" protested Alluka. "That's a risk we have to take," Milluki calmly stated. Alluka was seething in his place. Unable to hold out his temper, he stepped on his brother's foot and cried out, "You're just saying that because of the food!!! There's a stranger with Oniisan and you don't even care!!!" Killua watched the commotion his siblings were making, carefully backing out and hoping that it's not yet too late to pretend that they weren't related. But at the look the girl behind the counter was giving him, he knew that he didn't stand a chance. So instead, dodging the hopping Milluki who held his pained foot in both hands, the white-haired Zoldick turned to Alluka. The young boy was near tears, and Killua noted that with him aside, Illumi was the closest sibling to Alluka, so it was no great surprise that the boy felt uneasy at the sight of his brother. "Don't worry, Allu. I don't know if this would comfort you, but that man was no stranger. I know him," he said, patting Alluka's shoulder. The raven-haired boy looked up at him in surprise. "You do?" he asked curiously. "Er...yeah," Killua said, scratching his cheek uneasily. "Met him back during the Hunter Exam. It's kind of a long story, but thanks to Milluki here, we might have a bit of time with us right now." He then gave Milluki an exasperated look before turning to the nervous waitress by the counter. He gestured for her to come to them, and, albeit shakily, she complied. "Table for three please," said the young Zoldick. "And if you don't mind, we would like to ask a few questions about those people who just left." End of Chapter 4 A/N: I'm just beginning to settle the pace, so if you feel that the story is moving a bit slowly, I ask you to please be a bit more patient. I might introduce Hannah Schwartz by next chapter or something. Please please please be patient, okay? ^^ Oh yeah. This chapter got a bit long, so if you see any typographical/grammatical errors, please let me off for now. I'll edit it better next time =P
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Part 5
Cherrie's Universal Rule When Reading Her Yaoi Pieces applies here. Read chapter 2 for the whole statement. Disclaimers: Hunter X Hunter © Yoshihiro Togashi, Shounen Jump Weekly, Shueisha and Nippon Animation. This fanfic is written for entertainment purposes only. Author's Notes: Damn it, I can't finish Luminescence!!! To the HxH_Fics ml, remember that time I told you that the farthest I've gone on that chapter was the part where Illumi gave Hisoka a robe? I'm still stuck in that scene! *throws a mad fit* Grrrr...rrr..!!! *bites Hisoka-plushy's head off* Anyway, I apologize for the delay for this chapter. I'm not sure if I'll be keeping up the same pace as I've had during vacation. I'm currently being bothered by college application forms and for some strange reason, I feel so nervous that the only thing that comforts me now is studying o.O How can that be!? I'm a lazy bum, why am I studying so hard all of a sudden!?!? >0< OF GAMES AND ASSASSINS by: Cherrie ( kurapikasama@yahoo.com ) Chapter 5 - Getting the Message Alluka was near hysteria. He fidgeted in place, looking around helplessly, all the while taking brief glances of his two older brothers lying around in the same room he was walking around in. For the past twenty minutes, that was all the child did while the two rested in their own little territories. "Are you two quite done yet?" he asked, so frustrated that he stamped his foot on the carpeted floor. Nobody answered him. If there was a response, it was a crisp snort from Milluki who had sprawled himself on the bed on the right side of the room. "I want to go home!" whined the huge boy, his whole body filling up all the space on the small bed. "Why can't we just go and have me marry the Schwarz girl?" Alluka rolled his eyes. "Oh please, Millu, Hime-neesan doesn't even know you exist," he mocked. Killua rolled over, not knowing whether to sigh in relief because Alluka stopped fidgeting and yakking about Illumi or sigh in exasperation because it seemed as though there'll be another round of his two brothers' arguing. His limbs were dead tired. They've been walking, running, splitting up and even climbing up tall buildings the whole day looking for Illumi and - Killua shuddered at the thought - Hisoka because apparently, his story did not in the least bit comfort Alluka. If possible it only made his condition worse and his suspicion towards Hisoka rocketed sky high. He was convinced that Hisoka brainwashed Illumi, which Killua found ironic because Illumi was the expert when it came to that field. Back in the restaurant, the waitress refused to reveal anything, but with a bit of discreet questions, Killua was able to extract a few things from her. One was that, yes, the person he saw with Illumi really was Hisoka. Also, it sounded as if the magician was quite known in the place, being that the girl just referred to him as "Hisoka-san". But by mentioning that they were Illumi's brothers, the waitress started moving around uneasily and quickly excused herself to go get their orders. Killua wondered what it could be that Hisoka made the girl hide. And how was it that it looked as though the girl looked afraid, as if he was actually planning to pounce on her? The only information he found delicate was whether or not she knew where Hisoka and Illumi stayed, and when he did ask, she honestly looked like she didn't know. So what else was there to hide? "Killua, let's go look for Oniisan again!" cried Alluka, who was by then pulling at Killua's long sleeves. Killua grumbled, tempted to mess his hair around in frustration. "Naw, Allu, it's 8:30 in the evening! We'll order dinner downstairs, go to sleep, then look for Aniki again tomorrow," he said, keeping his head under the pillow he used to level down his brothers' arguments. His ears were also hidden by the soft white pillow, but Alluka's groan was undeniably loud. "We're never going to find him!" he cried as he sat down on the chair in front of the mirror, his young face in a pout as he visibly sulked over his two brothers' lack of dedication. Killua didn't really call it 'lack'. He and Milluki were doing their jobs just fine. Alluka's just too dedicated. While Killua stayed still in his own position, Milluki sat up and sought the two's attention. "Come on and let's eat!" he ordered, clapping his hands to call his two brothers with a newly found enthusiasm that he seemed to have lost a few moments back. It only made Alluka seethe even more "Sure, I made you move to find Oniisan and you say you're too tired but when it's food again--" "Allu, I would really appreciate it if you'd pipe down about my eating habits," said Milluki, who was now standing straight up with both hands on his bulging waist. "Trying to find Illumi is different from regaining strength through the art of eating." Not that you make the activity look like an art, snorted Killua in his mind while Milluki continued. "It's not that I don't care about him, but really, you've got to admit that the latter is a much more inviting task," he said. Having no other choice, Alluka allowed himself to be dragged by Killua out the door. As usual, Milluki led the way towards the hotel restaurant and also took charge of their orders. Killua just sat quietly beside his younger brother while the raven-haired boy continued his sulking spree, ignoring their older brother even when he asked him what he wanted. Truth to be told, Alluka didn't care because, in Milluki's own words, he's in his silent tantrums again and didn't have much appetite. And so, while Milluki and Killua tallied down the possible hotels, apartments and boarding houses that could be found around the city, Alluka kept his eyes past the clear glass window overlooking the main road. And that was when he caught a glimpse of two figures standing across the road, two pairs of eyes looking at, and past, him. Despite the flashing lights made by the passing cars that would've been enough to blind the rest of the hotel from seeing the shadows across the street, Alluka could make out the figures of his older brother and the man he saw earlier that day. It was out of instinct that he didn't take his eyes from the two - from what happened earlier, if he looked away, they might disappear again. With only his arm moving, he grasped the front of Killua's shirt and pulled him violently enough to have him shoved on the edge of the table. "Ouch! Hey, watch it!" cried the white-haired Zoldick, but his younger brother's insistent pulling made him look up to see what Alluka was pointing at. And just like what happened earlier, the boy was once again pointing at the ghostly figures they saw back in the restaurant. Killua gasped and leant over a bit closer on the window. "Milluki, look!" he said, waving his hand back at the direction from which he remembered Milluki to be sitting at. From across the road, Killua could've sworn that he saw Illumi smirk. The assassin was leaning against the brick wall of a coffee shop with Hisoka by his side. Most of the magician's body was hidden by the shadows of the alley, but it didn't have to take half the light of a lamp post to tell Killua that Hisoka was being far too close to his brother for comfort. He all but gaped when Hisoka looked away from him to whisper something to Illumi, all the while slithering a hand behind the assassin's back. He guided Illumi to move away from the wall he was leaning on and pulled them both deeper into the alley. The last things Killua saw were his brother's eyes still staring at him until he completely disappeared. Again, it was Alluka who saw them first and it was Alluka again who woke up from his daze. "That man just touched Oniisan again!!!" he bellowed, poking a frantic finger on the glass. Killua thought he heard something crack and quickly pulled Alluka away lest he displays the strength their family was known for. "Oh shit, the brat's right, Killua," mumbled Milluki, whose inner half was still drowning in a glazed stare at the darkness of the alley. "No, Oniisan!!!" With a violent push, Alluka escaped from Killua's hold and managed to shove past him. The young boy wasted no time and jumped into a fast sprint towards the main door of the hotel, and before Killua could call out his brother's name, all that was left for him to see was Alluka's figure zooming past the busy road. Various cars honked their horn, but Alluka paid them no heed and headed straight for the alley Illumi and Hisoka disappeared to. "Oh damn," cursed Killua, and without a second to spare, he bolted right after his younger brother while ignoring Milluki's indignant cries for them to come back. With both his brothers gone, Milluki silently fumed in his seat while weighing whether or not he'll go after the two. He looked around him and saw that everyone in the place was staring at their table, at him particularly. Letting out a frustrated roar, the pale boy didn't have any other choice and angrily went out to follow the others. * * * * * "We've been following them the whole day and they didn't even notice," said Illumi as he ran and jumped past alleys and buildings, with Hisoka a few steps behind him. "They're too busy looking for us to notice the things behind them," he added, and though it had to take a keen sense of hearing to catch it, the assassin's angry puffs of breath contributed to his obvious frustration. Hisoka let out an amused grin as he listened to his friend continue on complaining about his siblings and their discipline. He never really knew those people back there; all he recognized was Killua. But he bet that the boy didn't see this coming. Sure, the boy knew that his older brother's been hanging around him during the duration of the Hunter Exam, but perhaps he didn't expect it to be something more than a brief alliance. Hell, even he didn't expect Illumi to keep coming back to him and vice versa. Things just went on on their own, he supposed. "I bet Alluka doesn't even know how far our distance is. Those kids are neglecting their training, I just know it." Illumi seemed to be oblivious as to whether or not he was listening. Hisoka shook his head. He just realized that whenever Illumi was angry or annoyed with something, he tended to let them out verbally. It almost came out as a surprise because he really thought that the other was a bit on the quiet side. Sure he had his own share of playfulness every once in a while and he knew how to ride along whenever Hisoka cracks something up, but he's not the type who'd steal the limelight from him. He'll usually stay still and just listen. But then again, Hisoka decided that Illumi had to relieve stress one way or another. The Illumi who ran to him a few days ago continued to open up little by little. The assassin didn't seem to see it, but Hisoka's starting to get a glimpse of him with every word he utters. And the magician liked things that way. The more he knew about the young man he was with, the more he felt attracted to him. It also didn't help that he's got gorgeous hair. How many times had he mentioned Illumi's hair anyway? He was starting to get obsessed with it. Being so close to him while they slept was a complete torture, but he only went as far as staring. He had to congratulate himself for such an enormous feat on self-control, but he couldn't help but wonder just how he managed to last every single night like that. Usually he ended up tiring himself to sleep just when the sun was about to rise, too busy trying to not jump Illumi on the hours of the night. Hisoka shook his head. Bad thoughts - his mind was starting up again. If he went on at this pace, he'll be jumping Illumi for no particular reason and the other would surely throw him on some bottomless pit with a wild animal on his tail. He had to do something to at least level things down. "Where will we go now anyway?" he asked, just so Illumi won't get suspicious of his silence. But oh, what he wouldn't give just to get a chance on the other again. His mind started to tick as it would usually do, trying to search for yet another safe opening. Illumi didn't seem to notice his lack of attention. In fact, he didn't even look like he would care whether Hisoka heard half of what he said or not. "I don't know," was his answer, keeping the same pace even when they realized that they were heading to no particular direction. "We can't go back to the hotel if they're chasing after us," pointed the magician. Seeing that the other still tried to think of a place to run to, Hisoka found it in himself to take control again. Of course, he was waiting for this, and what he's about to give was obviously one of his initially planned ideas to keep things entertaining, but he found no need to mention that to the other. He kept his smile to himself. "There's a park off to the east. Would you like to try that?" The two turned a corner, and this Illumi used to look back to check where Alluka was. From afar, he also sensed Killua and Milluki, and they were gaining on the young boy. After spending a few seconds thinking of their growing distance, Illumi turned his attention back to his companion and thought back on his last words. "A park?" he asked, mildly bemused. "Why? Don't those places close at this time of the night?" "Nope," answered Hisoka, a wide grin on his face as he kept up at Illumi's pace. "The back part of the park that overlooks the sea remains open even at this hour. It's actually meant for lovers just in case they feel like going for walks and all that sappy stuff," he explained, making sure that Illumi caught part of what he was trying to let on. And he did. The assassin cast the other a suspicious glance. "Just what are you thinking, Hisoka?" he asked., narrowing his dark eyes. Hisoka didn't even miss a beat, and his grin only went wider. "Well, since they're on our tails now, I figured that we could give them a less than subtle hint on what we're trying to act up on. After all, the sooner they find out, the sooner your girlfriend would know, right?" Illumi frowned, and something in him knocked him on the head so badly that he even ignored the 'girlfriend' comment from Hisoka. He didn't know why agreeing with the magician seemed so hard now, but he felt a completely disturbing omen just by looking at the man's confident grin. It gave him the chills, and he knew he had to decline. But what was he say? "Come on, we can't let them chase us forever or they'll lose us again. Where else do you think we'd go to anyway?" insisted Hisoka. He cast a brief movement towards the direction of the ones chasing after them. Illumi set his lips on a firm line. Hisoka was up to something - worse than usual. "What exactly are you thinking of anyway?" he asked, wishing that the other would answer him properly. But knowing Hisoka... "Oh, just this and that," came the cheerful answer. "I'll just make sure they know what you got into. You promised me that I can do things my way, didn't you?" he asked, reminding the other just how their agreement went like. Yes, Hisoka certainly had been thinking about a lot of things during his spare time. He gave Illumi an innocent grin, expectant and void of any look of mischief. The assassin still felt uneasy, but Hisoka went on. "So what do you say?" A pause. "But--" "Yes?" Another pause. "Well I--" Illumi frowned, not exactly having anything to say. "It's set, we're going!" declared the magician, and without even a second's glance towards the other and even before Illumi could protest, he headed off by himself, leaving the assassin no other choice but to follow. With an uncomfortable sigh, Illumi resigned himself to his fate and went on after the other. * * * * * "They're going towards that park!" A pale finger promptly pointed at the black gate held by the brick walls. Milluki and Killua stopped to stand beside the small figure of Alluka, both pairs of eyes following the progress of the two figures that have indeed entered the park. Killua frowned. "Just where are they going anyway?" he asked out loud, even if he knew that the other two knew nothing more than he did. "Ugh, let's just follow them and get this over with. I'm still hungry," said Milluki, who's been complaining ever since they started the chase. He ignored Killua and Alluka's annoyed glances and just frowned at the sight of the brick wall of the park. "Damn...of all places to hide they just had to go for those sappy themes," he added. "Oh well, at least I might get to see some people bringing it on, heh!" "Eew," grumbled Alluka as they started out on following their brother again. * * * * * Illumi felt his eye twitch in irritation as Hisoka continued to mindlessly stroll along the empty paths of the park. The magician had a silly grin on his face - at least he had one when he faced Illumi a few seconds ago before he started his Little Red Riding Hood walk - and was humming like a fool in love as far as Illumi was concerned. The young man shuddered at the thought and decided that he should put a stop to the madness. "Just what the hell are you doing, Hisoka?" he hissed, casting a brief glance behind them to see if his brothers were still following them. He caught a glimpse of Killua's white hair behind some trees before it disappeared in a split second. * * * * * "What are you doing!? They're going to see you!" hissed Milluki after he pulled Killua in after the child just poked his head out the tree they were hiding in. "But why are we hiding anyway? Aren't we supposed to get Aniki?" asked Alluka in a whisper as well, mimicking Milluki just in case there was a completely reasonable reason for their hiding. The bigger boy placed a finger on his lips as a sign of silence. "Ssh. I have a bad feeling about this, so I think we should just watch them for a while," he said. He placed both hands on Alluka's shoulder just when the pale boy looked like he was about to protest before turning to Killua. "Didn't it seem to you as if they were actually letting us chase after them?" Killua frowned. "I haven't thought of it much. I was just running after Alluka," he said, indifferently shrugging his shoulders. Milluki rolled his eyes and just grabbed the two young boys on their shoulder to keep them hidden behind the huge tree trunk. "We'll wait a bit," he decided, covering Alluka's mouth before the child says anything else. Risking a small peek for the three of them, he continued to watch as the stranger and their older brother went on walking down the cemented path. His trained ears picked up a quietly hummed tune, which he suspected belonged to the stranger with the red hair. The young boy frowned. He thought back on Killua's story about the Hunter Exam and how, now that he looked back on the horrible Gitarakuru who was Illumi in disguise, it could've been that those two seem to go along so well. Of them all, it was Illumi who was most strict about associates. Milluki couldn't help but wonder how a strange man could earn his brother's trust, or at least, for this man to be the one his brother would run to. Just who was this Hisoka anyway? * * * * * "Are they still watching us?" Hisoka stopped his humming for a while to ask, glancing back to discreetly look past Illumi's shoulder before setting his eyes on the assassin's face. The other really was pale, and the white light of the moon only enhanced the younger man's pale complexion that it was almost as if he was glowing. Hisoka wouldn't hide it. In many ways, he found Illumi feminine, and perhaps that was the reason why he found himself latched onto him the first time they met. For a while, he wondered if the attraction was only because he found Illumi beautiful, that even if he knew the other's gender, there was still a part of him that liked the assassin because he saw him as a woman. Illumi would kill him if he found out about those thoughts, but Hisoka couldn't help it. That was why, during that time that he had to accompany Illumi to buy a few items of clothes, he would make sure that everything that the other picked was masculine. Sure, with his perverted ways his first priority was to make Illumi even more sexy than he already was with his own pick of clothes - though sometimes he regretted doing that because more than half the time he really wanted to jump the other without any other sort of pretense - but everything that he bought the other was, in more ways than one, male. But though Illumi was now wearing a loose, white long-sleeved sweater and black pants, and even with his long hair tied in a loose ponytail behind his back, Hisoka still found him as attractive as always. He supposed that he really did have a weakness for beauty no matter who held it. The world's coldest and most dangerous Zoldick child was no exception. In fact, Hisoka would categorize Illumi on the top of his "special" list of people to seduce. The danger must've played a part of the appeal. His mind just worked that way, after all. "Yes, and they don't seem to be planning to leave," said Illumi, in response to Hisoka earlier question. He sighed, his breath forming a heavenly mist due to the growing chill of the weather, but he didn't pay the coldness any heed as he continued to eye the other impatiently. "Why are we here, Hisoka?" he asked again. Until now the magician refused to answer him and just gave him a wry smile every time he would ask. And that wry smile was exactly what Hisoka gave him again, but this time, the magician turned around to face him, a light sparkle in his eyes. "Are you tired?" he asked, an innocent question that only made the other frown. "What does that have to do with anything?" asked Illumi, whose suspicion continued to grow more and more each time the other man would show his eccentricities to him. "I think I want to go back to the hotel. Since it looks as if they still have not caught on the message, I'm going to give it to them now," he said, his grin widening. It only took him three strides to reach Illumi, a split second to grab him and push him to the right and two more steps to fully have him between himself and a tree. Suddenly crushed under the magician's weight, Illumi couldn't help but let out a small groan, but before he could reprimand the other about his actions, his lips were silenced by Hisoka grabbing him in for a kiss. Least to say, a few meters away from the two, three pairs of eyes gawked at the scene. Killua felt his heartbeat clog his ears, and only at the corner of his mind did he hear the undeniable sound of Alluka's body stiffly falling on the ground. End of Chapter 5 A/N: *tearful eyes* I don't know if this is a good chapter, but please review! Maybe if I get the usual feedbacks, I'd be encouraged enough to continue faster. I really feel uneasy - probably because of the stress and lack of computer time - these past few days and I really need a bit of comforting. *hint*hint* Leave me even a small consolation, ne? ^^;
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