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Chapter Text

Tsuna tilted his head to the right and stared at Eishi Tsukasa. "Well, it's not that complicated."

"Then why? Why are you always in the shadows and just trying to blend in when you can do a lot of things?!" Tsukasa asked, astonished.

"Because I don't want to shine, Tsukasa-sempai." The brunet answered with a sad smile. "If I did, running away from home won't have its essence anymore."

Many gasped at his confession.

"Tsuna ran away because they thought he needed to stay at home for protective measures." Soma elaborated a little as he stood beside the small brunet.

"More like I don't want to go back because they don't want me there." Tsuna sighed before smiling brightly. "Anyways, let's close off this topic. Who wants some of my food? I'll cook it for you people."

The redhead's eyes shone with excitement. "I'll help!"

Tsuna smiled as people rushed in the stadium to get some of his food. At least he can stand on his own now.

Chapter Text

Chapter One

"You're not the Vongola Decimo anymore."

"Ieyasu has been in training for years. You were only chosen to keep him out of danger and acquiring the guardians suitable for him."

"I'm sorry, Tsuna."

Tsuna placed his hands on the either side of the sink and looked at his reflection in the mirror. He looked stupid. Dull eyes, dull hair, dull personality. Who would even want to follow him? He was just a scapegoat. A cover.

He closed his eyes as he tried to hide the bubbling emotions and to stop himself from screaming them. His hands gripped the edges of the sink so hard to the point that his knuckles turned white. Then after a minute, his shoulders slumped as his grips loosened.

What could he do anyway? He's powerless, stupid, and a dame. Always a dame. Sighing loudly, he turned on the faucet and started to splash some water on his face before turning it off. He took a towel from the racks and put it over his wet hair. He arranged his pants around his hips, before opening the door.

"Tsuna."

The brunet looked up to see the seven-years-old Reborn leaning on the railing just in front of the bathroom.

"It's dinner." The hitman said in a casual note.

Tsuna nodded, eyes away. "Thanks."

Then he slipped out of the hitman's gaze. He entered his room and started to rummage on his dresser for a shirt. After shrugging it on, he went out with the towel still on his head. He didn't look anywhere as he arrived in the dining room. He was going for his usual spot to sit when he heard shuffling from the kitchen until he felt hands helping him with his wet hair.

"Mou. You're going to get a cold if you're going to bed with wet hair, Tsu-kun." His mother chided softly.

Tsuna smiled. "It's okay, Kaasan. I have plenty of time to let it dry. I still have homework to do."

"You're always like that. Why do you have so much homework?" The lady asked with a worried expression on her face.

"Because it's school. I'll be glad if I enter one without any homework though."

Nana giggled as she pulled off the towel from her son's head. "I'll gladly enroll you if one exists."

Tsuna smiled again. He wondered if he could do that; get into a different school and get away from Namimori.

"Are you transferring, Tsuna?" A new voice asked.

The brunet looked at his brother before eyeing his mother who answered for him. Leaving the towel in his mother's care, he sat on his seat and started to eat after murmuring his thanks. He silently went through his food as the table got noisy. It has been an everyday occurrence to him now.

He swiftly evaded Reborn's attempt of stealing his food. He glanced at his tutor who looked at him with his onyx eyes; unreadable and contemplating. After eating, he said his thanks again and stood up.

"Ara? No seconds, Tsu-kun?" Nana asked. Although she's used to Tsuna not asking for seconds anymore, she still offers.

Tsuna shook his head. "No, Kaasan. Give it to the kids instead."

"Thank you, Tsuna-nii!" Fuuta and Ipin shouted with a smile while Lambo grinned.

"Baka-Tsuna! Here! Grape candy! Mama gave me plenty!" His ex-lightning offered, but the brunet declined softly.

"It's yours, Lambo-kun. Keep it for later." He gave another smile.

Lambo gave him a startled look before slowly nodding. "Okay."

Tsuna went for the stairs and ascended it. He entered his room, closed it behind him, and leaned on it. He tried to breathe properly from the painful clog in his throat. His eyes stung with tears with so much sadness. God. He worked hard to gain his family—only to have them given away.

A month and two weeks ago, His Dad—Iemitsu—arrived with a kid around his age, and that was Ieyasu Sawada, his 'older' twin brother. Ieyasu was the young carbon copy of Vongola Primo. Blond hair, blue eyes, strong body for fighting. They were separated because accordingly to his mother who guiltily recalled what happened back then, Iemitsu wanted to show one of his sons the wonders of Italy, until such time that Nana forgot that she has another son. And that was the intention of his father; to make them forget about Ieyasu’s existence.

After the shocking introduction, Tsuna noticed how cautious his father was, even fidgety, and how quiet Reborn was. Of course, they exchanged pleasantries until such time the bomb was dropped on him.

He was just a cover for his brother.

Tsuna vividly remembered how he turned to his tutor for confirmation, and he received a silent apology. He accepted it. And with his father's and brother's requests, he avoided his guardians after they were introduced to Ieyasu. He even avoided the girls and the kids for the sake of it. He, instead, goes to the sport clubs building to eat his food so they could use the rooftops. It went on for six weeks. And the result was tremendous.

Gokudera started to call Ieyasu 'Juudaime' while he was ‘Tsuna-sama’. Takeshi only smiles at him and waits for his brother so the three of them could go to school together. The girls didn't see him anymore, nor Ryohei-onii-san bugged him. The only ones who see him were Chrome, the kids, Reborn, and Nana. But he has to keep his distance from them too. Even to his tutor since the hitman had started to make his brother comfortable in Namimori with his guardians. The only ones who didn't have any reaction about it were Hibari and Mukuro.

Saying the requests were hard was an understatement. He struggled a lot to be polite towards his friends, pushing them away to Ieyasu's way, and making excuses for the sake of his brother's reputation as the heir. The sky ring was even removed from him. Natsu too. God. He didn't even have the time to say goodbye to his friend.

He wondered if the future they saved was the same too. Him as a cover for Ieyasu.

Shaking his head and wiping the tears away, he stood up and walked towards his desk to finish his work load of homework. He kept repeating in his head that he's okay. That it was fine. He is a dame after all. He was only good to be a cover. He knew he would never deserve such friends nor blessings, by and large.

He'd just do his work as the cover brother and let them have their own fun. All for the sake of family.

(For the family that wasn’t his anymore.)

Tsuna jumped back and went to a defensive stance. The assassin lunged. To counter, the brunet gave combinations of kicks and punches before he shook his pill container and popped one on his mouth in a fast manner. An orange flame erupted on his forehead; his mitten covered hands went to his same old metal gloves.

They engaged into a close combat fight before Tsuna blasted off the guy. The guy flew meters away, and didn’t get up anymore. He took a deep breath as he walked towards his unconscious assaulter, and carried him on his back after making sure the latter wouldn’t wake up so suddenly and stab him. He flew off and landed on the Namimori Middle School rooftop, just in front of a waking Hibari who was napping with Hibird just a second ago.

"Tsunayoshi-"

"Assassin." Tsuna clipped as he put the man gently on the floor. "Your town is getting full of it. Keep the security up to protect it."

Hibari silently stared at him before standing up. "All right."

The sky assessed his ex-cloud with his orange eyes before nodding. He flew off again, and arrived on his home in record time. He dropped himself to the roof of the house quietly, removing his gloves after he let go of his flames. He was going to come down to his open window when he heard Reborn and Ieyasu talking. He paused to check.

"There's a lot of assassination attempt on you, Baka-Ie. You need to be careful." He heard Reborn informed.

"Should I? They know Tsuna as the heir. They won't look at my way." Ieyasu responded offhandedly.

Tsuna sat on his heels as he waited for the hitman's reply.

"But your guardians are at stakes too. You can't make Tsuna as a bait for a position he already gave up to you.” Reborn scolded. “Just because he was used to be your cover, it doesn't mean you can continue abusing the situation."

"It's okay, Reborn." The blond dismissed, making the brunet clench his fists. "Tsuna won't know I'm using him if you won't tell him."

The Sky felt a spike of bloodlust from the hitman, but it went by quickly as it came. Tsuna couldn't help himself from smiling a little, relieved that his ex-tutor still cared about his well-being.

A sigh went through his lips as he made himself comfortable on the roof. He stared at the setting sun on the horizon as he thought of wishful things. He's getting fed up with all the antics his father had pulled on him. At one point, he thought the man cared about him. He was certain his Dad gave him a proud look when he defeated the Vindice back then. But now, he's certain that Reborn is the only one who cares, alongside with his mom and the kids.

Tsuna licked his lips contemplatively as the color of the sunset reflected on his eyes. If he was the old Tsuna, he would've let them use him. But he's not. He was once a leader of a group that defeated the members of an elite assassination squad, an enemy force, a family, and some mafia police. He was deemed as the Vongola Decimo for a year, declared a candidate for the Sky Arcobaleno position, also under the tutelage of the greatest hitman. So no. Enough is enough. No more.

Staring ahead, he nodded his head as a plan formulated on his head.

He needs to get away from Namimori.

Tsuna opened his eyes when he heard Ieyasu's voice rang in the house after saying his farewell. The brunet sat up, gathered some clothes he would like to wear, before going out of his room to use the bathroom. He did a quick shower, fixed his clothes on, and went out. Just as he was about to open his room's door, Reborn went out of Ieyasu's room, a little shaken. Worry caressed his features as he stared at his ex-tutor. Probably another growth sprout.

"You okay, Reborn?" Tsuna asked, a hand on the towel in his head.

The hitman raised his head to see him before giving his usual smirk. "You should be asking yourself that. You're already late."

"Nah." He waved off. "I'm not the one who needs to keep his reputation or have anyone waiting on me." The teen winced mentally when realization hit him. That sounded wrong. "Anyway, wait here. I have some painkillers in my room."

"I'm a sun, baka. I can heal myself."

Tsuna twisted the knob and went in, not closing the door. "Doesn't mean you can't feel the pain."

Tsuna rummaged on his drawer of medicine and took out the tab of painkillers. He went back to the hitman and handed them. Reborn took it and inspected it. Seeing the curiosity and proud look on his ex-tutor made him a little happy. Well, a little because he sure was going to have a beating once the hitman got a hold of what he was about to do.

"Reborn,"

"Yeah?"

"Thank you." Onyx eyes looked at him. He gave his widest and most heartfelt smile. "For everything. You really are the greatest hitman."

The other tilted his hat in arrogance as a smirk played on his lips. "Of course, I am. Didn't I tell you that from the very first place?"

"Yes, you did." The brunet confirmed, remembering the first time they met. The first time everything changed in his life for the better.

"You're five minutes late, get ready. I'm going ahead." Reborn bid.

Tsuna nodded and watched the hitman go down the stairs. Shaking his head, he went back to his room, and closed it. He only needed his pills, mittens, lenses, and headphones for emergencies. Of course, a good amount of money from his savings. Good thing he made Shoichi and Spanner remove the trackers last week. It wouldn't be nice if he could be monitored.

Nana looked at her youngest son descend the stairs. Tsuna wasn't wearing his uniform; rather a casual attire under a zip-up jacket. She stared at her son who gave her a warm smile and a hug when he got near enough.

"I'll be going, Kaasan." A soft bid of farewell, almost breaking her heart.

"Where are you going, Tsu-kun?" She asked, hugging her fellow brunet.

"Somewhere I can move as I am." The teen answered, pained and insecured but determined. "I'm sorry for leaving you. I'll call as much as I can, but after I settled in."

Nana parted from the child. She looked at him dead in the eyes, searching for assurance. "What about Reborn-kun? He'll definitely ask about your whereabouts."

She saw the nervousness and uncertainty on her son’s face. "I don't know. I haven't planned on that yet. I just want to get away."

"It's about Iemitsu and Ie-kun, right?" She asked softly. Tsuna's silence was an obvious answer. Her son would never know how to lie. "Okay. I'll come up with something. Don't worry. Just call me or text me, okay? I love you, Tsu-kun."

Her son nodded in relief and gratefulness. "Always, Kaasan."

Nana kissed her son's forehead before letting him go completely. She watched the teen smile at her once more before going out of the house in a hurried pace. Tears streamed down her cheeks as realization hit her.

She knew something was wrong when Tsuna suddenly went quiet after the child talked with Iemitsu and Ie. Even Reborn was getting distant with her oldest son, and she couldn't do anything about it. She also noticed the distance Tsuna was trying to put between him and the kids, and how polite he was to his friends whenever they're in. She couldn't understand the situation, but she knew how painful it was to her son. It was probably suffocating to the point that he had to get away from Namimori.

She knew her shortcomings as a mother. She even called her son 'dame' instead of supporting him when others bullied him. But when she saw how her son's shoulders and back were straighter and broader, how he stood taller and smiled brighter, she started to see how stupid she was for being oblivious. Her foolish naivety and stupidity caused a drift between them. Kyoko Sasagawa was right; it was not right for her to call her son a 'dame'. She was his mother for God's sake. If it wasn't for Reborn, her son wouldn't be happy. The tutor filled up her supposed to be role. And it hurt her. It pained her that she couldn't elevate Tsuna's suffering.

Wiping away her tears, Nana started to formulate a good story to tell Reborn. If Tsuna went away without his tutor's knowledge, then it must be something important. However, she'd help him with the best of her abilities. If her obliviousness was a blessing, then she would use it to its limits. It's her time to help her son.

Three days.

Tsuna has been traveling aimlessly away from Namimori for three days straight. He has been staying in cheap motels and searching for a good place to stay. He hadn't contacted anyone yet since he turned off his phone for any possible detection. He should probably dispose it too since there's a hundred percent possibility that Reborn bugged his device. But he needed to find a good store that would provide him a good phone.

He checked his wallet where his money was hidden. He has some secret pockets here and there too, in case that he got robbed or his wallet got snatched. His money came from Nana. He hadn't had time spending them since every time he wanted to, trouble gets him. Ever since Reborn came, it got never stolen nor got 'borrowed' by his sempais. Probably because he's associated with Hayato, Ryohei, Hibari, and Takeshi. The last noiret has a pretty mean batting and pitching that could kill.

It was around brunch when he felt hungry. He did skip breakfast to get to the next city. He knew it was pretty low of him to be paranoid, but he couldn't help it. So now he's searching for a good restaurant. Luckily, he did find one and entered.

The place was jam-packed. He winced how high class it was. He should've expected as such, of course. It was a big city. He would never fit in there with his dirty clothes and unkempt appearance. So, he decided to leave. He was going to go out when a tall bulky old man with long white hair wearing a blue yukata walked in. He looked scary so Tsuna scooted away and about to walk out when his tummy rumbled. He grumbled under his breath and about to continue his way out when he felt a hand on his shoulder.

"Yes?" He asked before he looked back. It was the old man. Fixing his falling composure, he queried again. "What can I help you with?"

"Eat with me, young man." The old man said as he maneuvered the teen to face the inside of the restaurant.

"E-Eh? But sir-"

"You're hungry, right? Just take this as a request of an old man."

Tsuna's mind went to his grandfather Timeteo. He bit his lower lip before surrendering. "Okay."

The old man nodded and beckoned Tsuna to walk with him. As they trudged, an usherette welcomed them. Tsuna noticed that the lady didn't address him, mostly to the old man who was towering him. The man was probably a powerful one. They were ushered to a room with a Japanese style interior. Tsuna removed his shoes by the small foyer while the old man just stepped in with ease since he was wearing geta. He found his spot across the old man. He kept himself relax and alert as assessing eyes inspected him. Reborn would kill him if he showed any weakness.

"You should order now, child. The food here is highly recommended." The old man suggested.

Tsuna nodded and took the menu on the side of the table. His eyes flickered here and there on the pages of the catalog, looking at the names of dishes. He's so thankful that the hitman drilled French in his head. A little later, the usherette came back with a tablet in hand.

"You order first." The old man urged.

Tsuna nodded a ‘thanks’. "I'd like a steak au poivre and a banana split for dessert." And he gave a smile to the lady.

The lady stared at him before a tint of pink got sprayed on her face. "G-Got it."

The brunet blinked in confusion. The lady was normal just awhile ago, then why was she red now?

"I'll have the regular." The old man pipped in, earning a nod again before the usherette went out, closing the door in her wake. "You know French."

"Ah yes." The teen affirmed before a sheepish look settled on his face. "My tutor taught me languages in his free times." 'Which is all the time.'

"I'm Senzaemon Nakiri."

"Tsunayoshi Sawada, nice to meet you, Nakiri-san."

"Hmm..."

The service of the restaurant was superb. The food was already on their table within minutes. Tsuna checked his food, feeling his intuition for any foul play. Deeming it safe like any other food he had tasted so far, he took his cutlery and started to cut his steak. He tasted the food before frowning and reaching out for some salt.

"Is it bland?" Nakiri-san asked, cautiousness was pretty detectable.

"Ah. N-No." Tsuna shook some spice on the steak. "I just like to have some salt most of the time."

"Are you picky with food?" The old man questioned as he took the salt shaker that the brunet placed back.

"I don't really remember being picky." 'Well except for Bianchi's poison cooking.' "My Kaasan's cooking has been my everyday food. I don't eat that often outside, except for the sushi shop in my town."

"Hm. Do you know how to cook?"

Tsuna blinked. "A little."

"How little?"

"Hmm..." The brunet chuckled, remembering how Reborn wanted him to cook for them both, but ended up being taught to how to cook. It was the first time his tutor seriously instructed him of how to do things. "I can cook a few Italian food, some French, a lot of Japanese, and quite a number of some other cuisine."

"What do you think of attending a cooking school, Sawada-kun?"

"Eh?" Tsuna blurted out, surprised.

"Tootsuki Culinary Academy. What do you think of attending such school?" Senzaemon Nakiri asked with a wide (sly-fox) smile.

Chapter Text

Chapter Two

"Mama." Reborn called as he walked inside the kitchen where the woman of the house was at the moment. "Where's Tsuna?"

The hitman saw how the lady's figure froze. He has been quiet for three days now, but he knew something was wrong. Especially after he sensed that his student wasn't in the house. The brunet didn't even attended school nor joined them in the dinner. Nana, as oblivious as she was (he has a hunch now that the matriarch started to get aware of what was happening with her close son), only said that she sent Tsuna for an errand in the next town when the kids questioned his student's whereabouts. But knowing the brunet, he wouldn't be gone that long. Except if he was going to do something.

Heh. Good thing Ieyasu was working on his assignments, and the kids were playing with Bianchi. If they hadn't been gone, he would've forced them out just to talk with Nana.

"Tsu-kun is with his aunt at the moment, Reborn-kun. They held him up since they haven't seen him for a long time." Nana responded as she continued to wash the dishes.

Reborn let out a sigh. "Mama. Please tell me."

Nana stopped what she was doing, knowing already that she's busted. The lady Sawada looked at him, as if gauging the full extent of trust she could give. Or Tsuna has given to him. "Reborn-kun."

"Yes?" He attentively answered.

"Tsu-kun trusts you a lot."

Reborn felt his heart sunk a little, guilt eating him like any other day the title got revoked from his student. "Yes."

"Do you trust him?"

He thought back to all the things they did. Tsuna was a wimpy kid. A coward, bullied, dame kid. He lacked self-confidence and self-esteem. But he was persistent. Always tenacious. He was strong-willed and hardworking. When he's in a pinch, he found ways. When he has to do things for the sake of others, he would do it. He cared for every soul he encountered. Selfless—so selfless that it hurt to see the kid get more involved to mafia.

Reborn watched him grow up in a span of almost two years to become the ideal Vongola Decimo. His grades have grown steady, his skills kept on stacking up, and he was still Dame-Tsuna, but more endearing and too good to tease. He was able to rely on his friends when things were bad, and he sought advice to the hitman when he has something in mind.

The Sun Arcobaleno would always be in debt to Tsuna for breaking the curse and slowly giving him the life he never thought he'd ever experience again. He was ready to die, but the brunet's tenacity has given him salvation. And in the long run, Reborn started to think that Tsuna wasn't bad for a ‘son’. If he was the child's father, he'd be the proudest.

So yes. He does trust Tsuna, even with his life.

"Yes, Mama." He answered earnestly.

The woman smiled. "Then trust him to be okay. Tsu-kun is your student after all."

Reborn smirked before getting serious again. "Did he say when will he be back?"

"No." Nana answered as she put a plate on the rack. "I didn't ask nor did he tell me anything."

Reborn mulled on this information. "He doesn't want to be found."

"Maybe. We won't know."

The hitman doesn't know if he has the audacity to be proud or curse his student to the oblivion for being unpredictable. "Thank you, Mama."

"No problem, Reborn-kun."

He turned around and walked for the door. He couldn't help getting a little worried. Tsuna wasn't really one to run away. No doubt it's because of the new situation. He mentally cursed at Iemitsu for being an idiot. He would never forgive that blond for using his student as a scapegoat for his other son. Ieyasu would surely have the Varia getting his head if they don't acknowledge him like they did on Tsuna after all the things happened. He remembered how his student fussed around on his comrades after the representative battle. He even stayed with the most troublesome members of the family just to keep them company even if they scared the living lights out of him.

Then he remembered how somber and gentle Tsuna was that morning. How the 'Thank you' felt so wrong with the beaming smile. He should've pointed out why the brunet was wearing casual attire instead of his school uniform, or why he was even late when his student was always early in class after getting used to their 'new' routine.

"Ah, Reborn-kun." Nana called when he was about to step out of the dining room.

"Yes?"

"I believe Tsu-kun will contact you when he wants to. If he hadn't, tell me. I'll tell you how he's doing."

Reborn contemplated before nodding. "Thank you."

He only received a smile in return. Sighing as he gazed at the door of his student. Now he has to wait.

"So? How is it?" Soma asked the blondie examiner who tasted his Transforming Furikane Gohan.

He waited for an answer while staring at his two audience. He really did his best to cook that dish though the test wasn't that hard. Everyone could cook with just a single egg. It's not even a challenge.

God. He just couldn't understand why his old man has to close their diner and enroll him to this school. It's not that he needed to learn more. His skills were okay—are okay; he could even cook better than other people. But his Dad just has to pull out the challenge card. And he's not one to back down when he has a chance to defeat his Dad. Though he had to admit, he liked how beautiful the academy was. It's so huge, and the buildings were nice.

"It's..." The blondie murmured.

Soma leaned in.

"It's ho-"

"Excuse me...?"

All three eyes looked at the door. A brunet in casual attire stood there, a hand on the knob, and looked lost with his nervous expression. He also looked ragged and out of place. But the way he stood there was full of confidence. It's as if he owned the place.

Soma stood straighter, like a soldier to his commander. The way the brunet gave out his aura was captivating that he couldn't help greeting him properly. It's not like him to act like this, but he couldn't help it. His gut was making him stand in attention.

"Is this the examination room?" The brunet asked in a soft voice.

"Yes. How may we help you?" The girl with magenta hair and tiger orange eyes answered equally polite.

"I'm here to take the test." The brunet replied as he entered the room fully and closed the door quietly behind him.

"Your name is...?"

"Tsunayoshi Sawada."

The pinkette searched through her tablet, then a frown marred her face. "You're not in the list."

"Ah well, Nakiri-san has told me to go here."

"Eh?" The two girls blurted out in shock.

"But this is Erina Nakiri." The pinkette said as she gestured her hands to the blondie behind her.

The brunet's lips went 'o'. "My apologies. I was pertaining to Senzaemon Nakiri-san. He told me to go here under his recommendation."

Soma watched the interaction with keen eyes. Who would have thought that walk-ins were accepted?

"If it's not possible, I can go." The brunet offered, gesturing to the door behind him.

"No." The blondie responded. "If grandfather recommended you, you must have skills. Please do cook."

The brunet cocked his head to the left. "But you were in the middle of evaluation, I presume."

Soma raised his brows when the two girls' attention went to him.

"That can wait." Nakiri, now that he remembered after the redhead introduced the blond again, assured. "I'm still evaluating his... dish."

"O-Okay."

Soma moved when the brunet hesitantly went to the little kitchen beside his. He gave a smile to ease the teen who did relax and smiled back at him gratefully. He watched the kid check every corner of the kitchen; from equipment, pans, ingredients, and knives. He grinned when he saw the glint on those brown eyes.

"I know, right? They have nice knives." He agreed with a nod at the unvoiced awe.

"Yeah. They're so shiny. Kaasan will be so happy if she sees this." The brunet smiled before standing up.

Soma watched the other remove his jacket, leaving a red shirt on. "I'll step out so you can do your work."

The teen nodded. "Thank you...?"

"Soma Yukihira." He introduced himself.

"Tsunayoshi Sawada. Call me Tsuna." And brown eyes went to the two girls. "You may as well call me Tsuna."

"Sure." Nakiri responded with a small smile. "The theme is eggs. Cook anything that has eggs as the main star. After that, I'll evaluate."

"You may start Tsuna-san." The pinkette alerted.

The redhead almost pouted. Why do they treat Tsuna so special?

Soma blinked when brown eyes turned molten orange before Tsuna started to move his hands. Ingredients were settled on the side of the cart and a knife was taken from its hiding place. He could only hear the knife hitting the board as uniformly cut ingredients were put on a plate. Then pans were brought out and placed on the stoves with medium heat, then a blender was taken out. He watched as things got put together from all the necessities on the work station. The performance screamed gracefulness and finesse. There were no wasted movement. It's as if Tsuna was only moving one or two steps from his previous position before going back there again.

Before they knew it, three bowls with white tops were placed in front of them. It didn't even take that long!

"Please dig in." Tsuna offered with a smile.

"You have one for me?" Soma asked, eyes wide with the pinkette.

"Eh? Well yes. Aren't you hungry too? It's not right for you to just stand there while Nakiri-san eat. It's not polite." The brunet responded as he took all the things he used and put them beside the sink. "Eat up."

Soma took a spoon and stared at the food. The aroma was enthralling, yet teasing. Like there's more inside to be seen. He murmured a 'thanks' before slowly opening the white part. A rich flow-y yellow yolk came out, indicating that it's a pouch. He proceeded to dig deeper until an ooze of green soup flooded the egg topping, and a strong smell of spices assaulted his nose. It was mouthwatering. So, he went for a taste.

At first the flavor exploded in his mouth, but disappeared after he swallowed. He blinked and ate another spoonful until the soup was gone. He stared at the bowl before gazing at the brunet who served them glasses of water. The distinct spices were there, the flavor was present, and there's a certain umami that he couldn't grasp.

"I-Impressive." Nakiri breathed, a hand in her chest. "I-I couldn't get enough. It was like I was in a green field and bathing myself with the fresh air under the clear sky."

"E-Eh?" Tsuna spluttered before red bloomed in his face. "T-Thank you."

"How did you do it?" The pinkette asked after drinking a glass of water.

"Do what?"

"Make it different." Soma elaborated. "What is it anyway?"

"Oh. It's a garlic soup with potatoes and pouch egg. I hid the leeks under so it won't be distracting. Then added a little cheese to have a milky texture and flavor." Then Tsuna made a wistful smile that made Soma stare. "It was one of my improvisations when my tutor wanted something different."

"It is different." The redhead assured. "Good job."

"Thank goodness." The teen smiled before looking at Nakiri. "What's the verdict then?"

"You pass, Tsuna-kun." The blondie responded with a smile.

"How about Yukihira-san?" Tsuna questioned, nodding at him at the same time with a curious smile.

Soma caught the reproachful and hesitant glance from their examiner before a sigh escaped her lips. "P-Pass."

"Oh." The brunet's face lit up in an extraordinary level and relief. "Congratulation, Yukihira-san."

The redhead grinned. "It wasn't much."

"I'll clean this up." The other said as he collected the used dishes and started to clean up.

The three silently watched him do the chores before Nakiri and the pinkette looked at him. He eyed them at the corner of his eyes, a little vigilant. He was sure he was going to have a fifty-fifty percent chance because of how badly he's being treated from the first. So, what now?

"Be grateful to Tsuna-kun." Nakiri grumbled, glaring at him. "If it wasn't for him, I would've failed you."

"But my dish was delicious." He gloated.

"No! It wasn't!" Nakiri harrumphed before walking out.

"Honestly, it was." The pinkette answered sincerely before gazing at Tsuna who was humming as he put away the things in their proper places. "But I knew Erina-sama will fail you even if you did have a delicious gohan. Your attitude sucked big time. But since Tsuna-san came, it became a fair judgement. Either way, congratulations to both of you. But I still won't forgive you with that attitude."

"Hisako!" Nakiri called for the pinkette.

"Eh? You're leaving already?" The brunet asked while wiping his hands with a napkin.

"Yes, Tsuna-san. Tight schedule." 'Hisako' replied shyly.

The other smiled understandingly. "Have a good work then. See you around."

"Ah yes. Please ask Yukihira about the information about us. We will need your papers."

"I will."

The two ladies went on. Tsuna gave a small bow as a sign of gratitude. After that, Soma took his knife, put it on his briefcase, and followed his peer who went out after taking his jacket. He found him walking in a slow pace, murmuring to himself and trembling.

Now that he noticed it, the brunet's clothes were wrinkly and a little dirty. He must have been wondering around and met the other older Nakiri by accident. At least his father didn't ship him off.

"Yo, Tsuna." He called out, making the other turn around to face him. Soma gave a smile. "Where are you heading?"

The brunet made a thoughtful look. "Probably check in to a nearby hotel then buy a new phone."

"Oh." Soma stared at him. "Where did you come from anyway?"

"Far away from here." Tsuna smiled weakly.

"Without any luggage?"

"Yup. I had to move fast, so I didn't bring any. Only those I needed are what I pocketed."

"Then why do you have to buy another phone?" He queried as they descended the stairs. "Is it broken?"

"A little. I need to change it since someone I don't want to talk to might contact me."

"Ah." Soma nodded slowly. 'He must not want to say anything who that someone is.'

"I'm glad you passed though." Tsuna smiled pleasantly. "I really thought she was going to fail you."

"I'm glad. But you're pretty happy for me too?"

"Of course, I am. Small or big achievements are meant to be celebrated." The brunet happily answered with a puff of his chest. It's like he's speaking by experience. "Especially small ones."

"True." He nodded, smiling a little at his own achievement for today too.

Both of them stopped walking when they saw the almost dark sky. Soma looked at his companion who has a grieve expression. And he didn't like it one bit. It's like in the past two hours he was with Tsuna, he got used to the smiles the latter always had.

He wondered why do such a face. Did something happen to him during at a time like this? What could he do to erase it?

"Do you want me to accompany you to the store?" He offered.

"Won't I be a bother?" The brunet asked with a tilt of his head to the left.

Soma almost blushed at how adorable the other was. "No. It'll be fine."

"Okay then. Your home isn't far from here then?"

"One train away."

"Then let's go. I don't want you home late."

The redhead made a small wave of his hand as he went on ahead. "No one is waiting for me at home."

"O-Oh." He looked back to Tsuna who made a blank face. "I'm sorry."

"No. It's okay. My old man is somewhere. He'll probably show up someday."

"He must be a good chef to have a good one as a son too." Tsuna piped in.

Soma beamed. "Of course. One day I'll beat that old man."

"What kind of a father is he?"

Tsuna stared at his new Android orange phone. He used a new sim to activate it, and started to input his mother's number, the house number, then contemplated a little as he stared at Reborn's number. Surely, the hitman should be worried already. He wouldn't be fooled that long. He's as sharp as a knife, and bright as the sun. He giggled. Reborn is a sun.

He put in the numbers before messaging his mother that he's okay. He joined Yukihira in looking around after. They were walking to the train station when he heard a 'ping'. Both of them perked up at the sound, looked at each other, then to Tsuna's pocket before laughing at their silliness. He took it out and checked the email.

'From: Kaasan

Subject: Hi Tsu-kun!

Message: I'm glad you're okay! You have me worried for three days straight, Tsu-kun.'

Before Tsuna could type a reply, a call came in. He immediately answered, a little eager to hear his Mom's voice. He did miss the lady. It was hard to stay in an inn without her, or eat a meal that wasn't cooked by her. He wanted to call her so bad, but he knew he couldn't, so he restrained himself. But now... Nothing could stop him. His email was unknown, his phone was untraceable, and no one would touch him under the protection of Tootsuki Academy, and just how powerful he is.

He was Vongola Decimo.

"Tsu-kun?" A small whisper.

"Kaasan!" He cheered, getting an amused look from Yukihira.

"How have you been? Have you been eating well? Sleeping? Where are you right now?"

"I'm fine, Kaasan. I've been eating well for the past three days. Sleep is okay." He grimaced a little, not even seeing the gaze thrown to him by the redhead. "And I'm walking with someone right now. After that I'll be heading to a hotel."

"Ara. Who's that someone? Send me a picture, Tsu-kun."

The brunet blinked before readying the camera when he removed the phone from his ear. "Strike a pose, Yukihira-san."

"Eh?"

"A pose." Tsuna repeated with a snicker. The other made a peace sign with a wide smile. He took a shot and hit send before going back to his mother. "Got it, Kaasan?"

"O-Oi!" Yukihira stammered, embarrassed.

The brunet heard a squeal from the other line. "He's so handsome!"

"Kaasan said you're handsome." He relied, earning a red tomato. "Maa. You became a red pepper, Yukihira-san."

"Oh. I imagined that." Nana said, and both cracked up. "Ask him if you can stay with him for the night, Tsu-kun."

"Kaasan."

"You haven't been sleeping well. I can hear your exhaustion from the phone. He won't like that."

Tsuna went stiff as a rock at the mention of 'him'. "Oh crap."

"Yup." The other chirped.

He chewed on his lower lip before nodding. "Okay. I'll try. Thank you, Kaasan."

"Good night, Tsu-kun."

"Good night."

Tsuna stared at his phone. Could he really do it? Ask a person he just met hours ago? He peered at his companion who's looking around. Well, Soma Yukihira felt like an honest person and really cheerful about things. He was pretty transparent when he talked about his life.

"Naa, Yukihira-san." He called.

"Yes, Tsuna?" The redhead responded, yellow eyes on him.

He smiled sheepishly. "Can I stay in for the night?" The other only stared. "I've been staying in motels and inns these past three days after I..." Tsuna hesitated before looking away. "After I ran away from home. Kaasan was the only one who knew I went out because she's one of the two people I trust. And she kinda caught that I haven't been sleeping nicely since then."

"I was going to invite you to my place." The chef between the two of them replied, eyes on him. "Or probably force you to come when we arrive at the station. I don't know you that well, but I can sense that I can trust you with my life."

Tsuna's heart clenched.

"And call me Soma. Calling me Yukihira when I call you Tsuna sounds wrong." Then the redhead smiled.

"Soma-kun-"

"Just Soma." Soma corrected.

"Soma." The brunet tested before giggling like a kid. "It sounds artistic."

The redhead flushed. "Shut up."

The brunet laughed.

Chapter Text

Chapter Three

'From: xxx-xxx-xxx

Subject: (none)

Message: I'm okay.'

Reborn stared at the unknown number that messaged him. He doesn't know what to think. Questions flew here and there as he read the short message he received over and over again. He knew it's Tsuna though. Regardless, after sorting out his thoughts, he felt relieved, proud, and excited. Who knew his student would purchase a new phone just to tie an end in any case someone tried to track him?

As of now, the whole Namimori Middle was buzzing with questions of Tsuna's whereabouts. He had convinced Chrome to at least put on a show tomorrow that Tsuna was inside the room. The female mist nodded, as if willing to help her boss. As a matter of fact, Reborn even deduced that Chrome would never acknowledge Ieyasu as her sky.

The problem now was Hibari though. He did not like Tsuna's missing presence in Namimori. It was understandable since he is a cloud and very possessive. He also vowed to bite the sky when the time comes, but how could he when his prey got away? Reborn had to lie to the skylark that he sent Tsuna away since Ieyasu would take on the brunet's place. It didn't really set well since like Chrome, Kyouya did not acknowledge Ieyasu as his sky. Heck, he even dubbed the blond as a pest.

Of course, he said the same thing to others who asked the teen's whereabouts. Lambo didn't even question him, but the kid's inquisitive gaze was really penetrating. Lambo would remain as Tsuna's lightning then. But that would be tested with Ieyasu.

Speaking of the blond, Reborn was pretty thankful that the oldest twin has a weak intuition. The new heir didn't even question his lie. He almost laughed at how gifted Tsuna was even after all the hardship he experienced from being sealed away to struggling against life-threatening events. If it wasn't for those, the hyper intuition of his student wouldn't grow with intensity. Alongside that, Tsuna was blessed with Primo's blessing. Who the heck knew that Giotto helped his student scare off Byakuran in the future?

Reborn sighed as he settled his excitement into a simmer. Just a text that he received at the evening of the fourth day of disappearance made him excited. How low could he be? Or perhaps how high his expectation on his student would be?

Unpredictability. Unpredictability.

Yes. Yes. Tsuna is growing up.

Coolly, he started to type his own reply.

'To: xxx-xxx-xxx

Subject: Chaos

Message: Occasional updates.'

After sending it, Leon switched back to his form. He patted his partner before helping him go back to his hat. Reborn started to walk towards the familiar street of which Shoichi Irie's residence is. He needed to make amends on things for his student's safety. First of all, he needs to block off any access on Nana's phone before Iemitsu gets an idea that his wife is cheating on him, and tries to see any possible number that contacts his wife and then discover Tsuna. He should probably ask Shoichi to put some recognition access or stronger security that only Nana or him could have an access.

Nope. It's payback time, and he would make that bastard suffer after making his beloved student ran away from home.

A beautiful day at the Tootsuki Culinary Academy in the month of April. The sky is clear, and the sun isn't as hot as it is. At most part, it was the first day of the new semester. A good day to put up a welcoming ceremony.

"We will proceed to present the award for the best of this year. Representative of the first year, Erina Nakiri." The emcee announced cheerfully and proud.

A lot of praises were verbalized from the students down the stage. Erina, with her blonde hair and violet eyes, walked to the platform with grace and confidence. She smiled pleasantly to the emcee who blushed a little while handing the certificate to her. Erina faced the crowd and gave a small bow before moving to the other end of the stage.

"Now, here is Sir Senzaemon Nakiri to give us a speech." The emcee said before going out of the way.

An old man with white hair and bulky structure wearing a yukata took the stage and went for the microphone. A mix of praises and scared comments erupted from the student below the platform. Senzaemon Nakiri, the academy director and the man who had led Japanese cooking industry to its prosperity, didn't really mind. It was a reputation he would like to keep afloat and live on. Even being called a ‘food mafia don’ or a ‘food demon king’ was a praise for him already. It's not even his fault that he looked scary. He has to be strict to get his point across.

He stood in front of the podium, with arrays of students watching his every move and waiting for him to say his speech. Curiously, he looked around to see any familiar faces in the crowd. The scan didn't disappoint him though. He saw Joichiro's son, waiting for his cue and sitting beside the familiar brunet who was talking to the redhead with a soft expression.

He honestly didn't know what was he thinking when he invited the brunet to study in his academy. He only got the kid's name and his manners of dealing with people. He doesn't even know if the kid could cook that well. But since Erina made him pass, he felt great. He just wanted to help the child who looked too young to be wandering around with his clothes and empty stomach. And believe it or not, he doesn't do this often. It was just out of spur.

Shaking his head mentally, he focused at the task in hand and opened his mouth to start his speech.

"Ladies and Gentlemen. Congratulation for entering the high school section." He started off with a small harmless smile to everyone. "On your three years in the middle school section, you've deepened your knowledge about the basics of food preparation and its ingredients. You've had classes with cooking drills where you actually work and all sorts of lectures about cooking theory, nutrition, sanitation, agriculture, management."

The students nodded; some murmuring to those people beside them.

"And now, you're standing at the entrance to the high school section. But what will be tested isn't your technique or knowledge, it's if you have the guts to live as a chef." Senzaemon raised his hand pointed a finger to the students with no one in particular. "Ninety-nine percent of you are sacrificial stones in order to polish the remaining one percent gems. Out of the eight hundred twelve new first years from last year, the number of students that advanced to the second year is seventy-six."

The students stared at him with uncertainty that he smirked at.

"We'll mercilessly cast away the incompetent and ordinary people." His eyes caught the brunet stood up and about to walk away, but the redhead immediately took his wrist and made him sit again. Director kept his face neutral although his mind curiously asked what was that reaction for. "By the time the one thousand first years reach their second year, they will become one hundred. Cause to count down the number of people that will graduate, one hand will be enough. And you,"

The children's eyes lit up; some even dared to smile as if ready for the challenge he was about to say. Senzaemon did smile in a challenging way.

"You will become one of those handful of chefs. Devote to your studies." He roamed his eyes before nodding. "That's all."

Director Nakiri went to the side where his granddaughter was watching. He nodded at her before making his way, only to come back again when he remembered that he has two promising transfer students he wanted to see.

"To finish off," The emcee, who went back to the podium, concluded. "I would like to call on the two transferees to the stage."

Senzaemon's interest was piqued when the redhead walked for the stage and took the podium. His eyes roamed the crowd for the familiar brunet he recruited. He wasn't there. Did he skip?

He eyed the redhead. Like any other non-conformists, the teen's uniform wasn't like the academy boys' uniform. It was a little on the violet side with white linings, blue shirt on the inside, and a towel tied on his wrist. He looked passive, but the way he cheekily smiled was actually pretty irritating in a way.

"Well," A modulated voice was heard. "Like I'm sorry for being in this high place. I have to express my intentions, right? That's why they called us here." Joichiro's son had even the audacity to look embarrassed that he couldn't help snickering at. "I'm beaten; do I really have to do this? Saying them on stage is embarrassing."

"Get on with it already!" Some students shouted.

The teen smiled teasingly and cheeky. "Then I'll keep it short, I'll say two or three things. I'm Soma Yukihira. Truth to be told, I only think of this academy as a stepping stone. But I got admitted here unexpectedly. But I don't plan to lose to some bunch that has never stood in front of clients. And now that I'm in, I'll take the top."

The crowd stared at him, astonished with his speech, while Senzaemon guffawed.

"Soma." A clear voice called with fond exasperation, penetrating the silent field.

The brunet, that Senzaemon wanted to see, walked to the platform. He's wearing the academy's buttoned up white collared shirt and midnight slacks without the standard red and yellow stripped necktie. Like always, his hair defied gravity and his innocent eyes were trained on the redhead. He gracefully walked towards the podium, almost like gliding if they didn't know. The confidence he exuded rivaled Yukihira's, and the small smile on his lips was only given to his friend.

"Took you long enough. You didn't get lost, did you?" The redhead queried, almost in a teasing manner.

The brunet scoffed. "I memorized the layout of the academy. Also, the bathroom was nearby. I don't have to get lost. And if I did get lost, all I have to do was call you."

"Right. What can you do without me?"

"Uh, live a normal life?" Then the new comer took the mic from the redhead, who was snickering, and faced the student population with a polite smile and sincere expression. "Good day. Tsunayoshi Sawada here. Please don't expect me to stay that long; I am an ordinary person after all."

"I told you, you aren't." Yukihira admonished that Sawada ignored.

"I'll probably become a stepping stone for this guy here, and I honestly have no experience in facing any clients nor did some amazing things you had been doing through your middle school. Regardless, let's have fun in my whole year stay in here. In that way, we won't have any regrets after we got kicked out." And the brunet gave one of his breathtaking smiled. "Like one of my family had said, let's do it with our dying wills. Thank you."

The two moved to the side and bowed.

"In best regards in the next three years." Yukihira said in his bow.

The two straightened up and left the stage. The students below the stage were in an uproar. They kept on shouting and booing at Yukihira while a few were amazed at Sawada's lack of self-confidence and his encouragement to learn despite of the fear of being kicked out.

The two transferees reached the side where the two Nakiris were. Senzaemon got the brunet's attention, causing the latter to immediately stop walking in front of him and bow a little at his direction. The director was impressed. Most youngsters with manners would bow waist level, but the teen only moved his upper body to give a forty-five-angle bow. It's as if he could not bow to anyone unless he needed to.

Yukihira, though, was looking at his friend in confusion. His head was tilted on the side and kept on glancing between the brunet and the director. In the end, he also bowed in the same way before straightening his posture with Sawada.

"You don't have to mimic me, Soma." Sawada chided.

"But it's fun." Yukihira responded with a mischievous smile. "Who is he though?"

The brunet blinked then shrugged. "I don't really know him personally except he gave a speech awhile ago and was called the school director. But he's the one who recommended me."

"Oh." The redhead uttered before smiling at the older Nakiri. "Thank you for recommending, Tsuna."

Senzaemon saw his granddaughter face-palm at the two's denseness and cluelessness. Well, it's not every day that you see some students who didn't know him with his name.

"It was nothing." The director responded before turning to the brunet. "You're settled in, I assume."

"We'll be. Thank you for the concern."

"I did not expect your speech, child." He pointed out. "For someone who passed, you should be proud."

The brunet only smiled. "I did grow up in an ordinary household with a housewife as a mother. I don't have much cooking experience as your students have, nor faced clients like Soma has been doing. So, it is fitting to say such things."

"You aren't ordinary." The redhead, again, scolded. "I even had to keep you still when you were about to go."

Senzaemon blinked when he got what Yukihira meant. So, what he said on the stage about kicking out ordinary people from the academy was the reason why the brunet was about to walk out and said that speech?

"Right right." And then the brunet's gaze went for his granddaughter, Erina, who was silently listening to them. "Nakiri-san, good morning."

Erina blushed a little before nodding. "Good morning, Tsuna-kun."

"Congratulations. I heard you passed everything in your exams." Sawada praised, earning an 'o' from Yukihira.

"Wow. You're good, Nakiri."

The blondie blushed before turning away and standing up. "Class is about to start."

"Ah right." The brunet looked at Senzaemon who has this amused expression on his face. "We'll be going, Sir. Pleased to see you today. Be careful on your way."

He nodded and the two sprinted out of the way. He watched them talk as they ran and disappear from his sight. He hummed under his breath as he walked out of the vicinity too. He needed to research on the child he recruited. There's something about the kid that intrigued him.

Tsuna sighed as he fixed the white apron on his front body. If stares could burn holes, he's afraid Soma would be a walking hole-man by now. His friend was standing in front of his station, tossing and catching an onion while saying something out loud about self-study and such in Home Economics.

He could almost snort. Like he has better comments on that. Since he was 'Dame-Tsuna', no one taught him how to do Home Economics. Heck, teachers avoided him. Even his mother always reminded him not to enter the kitchen. Quits, he didn't want to cook too. But Reborn came crushing to his life and made him do things he didn't want. So, yeah…

"Eh? Why are you writing and eating the kanji of 'person' in your palm like you're gonna avenge your parents or something?" His attention went back to Soma. The redhead was talking to a girl with cobalt blue hair in low braided pigtails.

"A-Ah. I-It's for me n-not to g-get nervous o-or something l-like that." The lady said as she continued to write on her palm and eat the imaginary word. Tsuna's eyes perked up when those slumped shoulders went down more. "Because if I get another E, I'll get expelled."

"E-"

"Then we should prevent that." Tsuna chimed in, giving his friend a warning glance. Soma blinked before smiling sheepishly. He looked back to the lady who was staring at him and gave a small smile. "I'm Tsuna. Nice to meet you."

"M-Megumi Tadokoro." The lady introduced.

"I'm Soma Yukihira!" The redhead said with a smile. "We're partners in this class."

The lady nodded, a little unsure.

"Don't let your insecurities let you down." He advised the Tadokoro who kept staring at him. "Let's support each other to get our first A today."

"Yey!" Soma cheered.

Tsuna turned away from the redhead and looked at the bluenette who got baffled with the other's cheer. "Don't mind him."

"Eh. Tsuna." Yukihira drawled.

The brunet only sighed and patted the redhead's locks before looking around. He blinked when his intuition nudged him to smile to Soma, and he did. The redhead smiled back.

His two months stay with Soma was pretty eventful. There wouldn't be a time that the redhead would not cook. A lot of their diner's customers loved Yukihira's cooking, and he's pretty good with rush hours too. He did try to help sometimes, just waiting table to ease up the load.

Soma was pretty much a kid. He has some mischievous tendencies and mature times. Most of the time, he'd be with the redhead, grilling squid with peanut butter or just anything edible that could be tossed to the grilled seafood or the grill itself. The redhead was so shocked when he didn't shy away from the food and commented that they could use some ketchup. And with that, he became Yukihira's fascination.

At times, Soma was like... Gokudera. Pretty impulsive and very much a nerd when it came to how to make a dish tastier and delicious. But he's also like Fon, the Storm Arcobaleno. He doesn't lash out when he's angry. He puts his emotions on his dishes and annoys the hell out of his enemy. Pretty much intimidating when he wants to, especially when he glares with those yellow eyes of his. Then he'd compare him to Belphegor for being so cheeky and naught sometimes, that even the brunet couldn't stop. At times, Tsuna couldn't help categorizing the other as a storm in general, and his hair practically screamed of it.

He then looked at his friend who was having a friendly chat with Tadokoro who eased up a little. The girl reminded him of his past self who lacked a lot of self-confidence. He just wanted to cheer her on because he knew how bad it was to have a pressure weighing one down.

"Attention!" Brown eyes languidly searched for the source of the command. "Good morning, young apprentis." A white-haired man said in French while walking in the room.

"Good morning." Tsuna greeted back in a soft voice, earning some looks from his classmates.

"You can speak French?" The teacher queried, interested.

The brunet nodded. "Yes, Sir. But please continue."

"Very well. First of, you have to remember that you're responsible in making delicacies once you stand in the kitchen. For that, neither your experience nor status matters." The teacher glared at them. "In my class, dishes that can't get an A will get an E. Remember that."

The brunet was about nod when he noticed Tadokoro who's almost wailing in an anime style. He sweatdropped before tapping her shoulder. "May I ask something, Tadokoro-san?"

"A-Ah. Yes."

"Who is he?"

The lady looked at their teacher. "He's Roland Chapelle-sensei, also known as the teacher who doesn't smile. He's really strict with his evaluation. Last year, he failed a class of fifty students and eighteen got expelled because of that. God. I'm so unlucky to have him as a teacher." Then her shoulder slumped in devastation.

"Nah. Don't be." Tsuna assured. "You'll be surprised today."

"Eh?" Tadokoro blurted, perplexed at what he said.

"Soma!" He called. The other looked at him. "You heard what Tadokoro-san said about our sensei? Let's make him smile."

Soma's eyes twinkled. "Deal!"

Tadokoro's eyes widened. "Ha?"

"Ahem." The two looked back to the teacher. "Today's menu is Beef Bourguignon. A standard French dish. Just in case, I'll write the recipes on the white board. Your limit is two hours, and submit your dish as soon as it's finished." Gray eyes surveyed the students before nodding. "Let's start then—Start cooking!"

Tsuna parted from the two. Since the class was cooking by pair, and he's fairly the odd one out, he has to cook the dish alone. As he readied the ingredients (while entertaining an excited Soma and assuring a nervous Tadokoro), he remembered that beef bourguignon was one of Reborn's personal demands whenever the hitman wanted him to cook. Subtly, the brunet thought of something.

'Reborn won't want it tough since he has baby teeth.' He thought to himself as he went for the ingredient section again and took a pineapple. On his way back, he saw two male teens hovering around the station next to his. His intuition nudged him, and he hurriedly approached them.

Taking a towel from Soma's station, he put it on top of the lid they were about to open. He stared at the ready to sprinkle salt before letting his eyes travel towards the owners of the hands to their faces. He saw how surprised they were. Well, he was pretty much surprised and disappointed too.

He knew this kind of people. Those who didn't care what would happen to others. He might have grown in a small town, but he knew how snobbish rich people were. Too pride-y and too high to reach. No wonder Reborn changed and raised him as a perfect Vongola Decimo. Someone who wouldn't kill for the sake of money and greed.

"If you want revenge on Soma about what he said in the ceremony, do it fair and square." Tsuna said softly.

"Don't interfere." The other hissed.

"I won't if you didn't do it right in front of me." He retorted calmly. "I'll go if I were you. Chapelle-sensei is watching us."

One of them opened his mouth to say something when a voice beat him to it.

"What is the commotion?" The teacher asked as he approached them.

The two teens backed away, almost paling as sweats formed on their foreheads.

"Just talking, Sensei." Tsuna lied and gave the old man an apologetic smile. "We'll go back to work."

"Y-Yes, Sensei!" The two said in unison before they ran away.

The teacher nodded at Tsuna before going away. That made the brunet sigh in relief.

"Tsuna-san?" The brunet swiveled around and smiled to Tadokoro who was leading Soma. "Why are you there?"

"Just keeping your station in line." He responded, but he caught how the redhead's eyes sharpened. "Nothing much to worry."

"Thanks, Tsuna." His friend expressed before his eyes stared pointedly at the pineapple in his hand. "What's that for?"

Tsuna looked down to see the fruit. "Ah. Personal touches. Remember my tutor?"

"Yeah. That young kid?"

"Yup. Since he can't eat tough meat, I needed to tenderize it. So, I found ways."

"I could do that?"

The brunet shrugged. "Dunno. I'm just doing it my way."

"Well, that teacher did say something good." Soma said as he untied the towel on his wrist and put it around his forehead. "Didn't he say that before we were students, we are chefs."

Tsuna hummed as he put the towel in the counter and walked to his station. "I wonder about that."

"Heh." The other uttered before turning to his partner. "Tadokoro, help me finish this."

"Y-Yes!"

Since he had to make up the lost time, Tsuna tapped his intuition to multi-task. It wasn't that hard since he was trained to do so. He didn't forget to put the pineapple and finish it off by putting it on the plate.

When Roland Chapelle-sensei called out 'Next', he stepped up at the same time with Soma and Tadokoro. Tsuna couldn't help himself from chuckling, taking in the redhead who grinned at him. They presented their dishes to the chef.

"Please, dig in." Tsuna politely said.

The teacher looked at their dishes and started off with Soma and Tadokoro's. He put the fork on the beef and pressed it a little. "It bounced. I thought you had a little predicament awhile ago that Sawada had to stop."

"Some salts were sprinkled." Soma answered, making Tsuna wince. The redhead saw this and bumped his shoulder lightly on the brunet's. "But we had it covered."

The teacher got interested. "What did you do?"

"We used honey to tenderize it."

"B-But how?!" The teacher blurted in surprise.

Yukihira snickered. "When I was a kid, I read something about pineapples making meat tender. But since you can't purchase pineapple most of the time, I experimented and found out that honey can do the trick too."

"Okay." The teacher nodded before taking a bite.

"Tsuna." The brunet looked at his friend who looked at him with sincerity. "Really, thank you. If you didn't stop them, a lot of salt would have gone on it. So don't feel bad."

The brunet grimaced. "It's just that if I noticed it earlier, I would've stopped it much sooner."

"Ba-Ka. It's okay. I'm always ready for this kind of things." The redhead assured with a goofy smile. "I am 'Soma' after all."

Tsuna rolled his eyes fondly at the name play. "Yeah yeah."

"Sawada." Chapelle-sensei called.

"Yes!" Tsuna went attentive.

"Your meat is tender, and easy to cut. Did you use the pineapple to do it?"

The brunet nodded. "My tutor couldn't eat tough meat so I had to improvise. I applied it to give a little more sweetness."

"And you did that alone. Very good." Chapelle-sensei nodded before giving them a smile. Tsuna looked at Tadokoro who stared at him, he winked. "I'm giving you three an A. Too bad I couldn't give you anything higher than that."

"It wasn't that much!" Soma said as he removed his towel.

Tsuna smiled at the teacher before walking back to his station with the two to clean it. He hummed to himself as he stared at the remaining beef bourguignon on the pan. Maybe...

Chapter Text

Chapter Four

"Reborn-kun!" The hitman perked up and went out of his hiding place to see the Sawada matriarch by the door. The lady smiled at him excitedly. "Delivery for you!"

He blinked his eyes and strode towards the door. A man in delivery clothes was standing there with a plastic container in hand and a clipboard in the other. He took the clipboard and signed his signature as an assurance that he got the delivery before taking the container in hand. The delivery man bowed before running to his motor.

Reborn walked back inside with Nana. They went for the dining room and placed the container on the table. There was no note or anything. He opened the lid and stared at the food inside. It was a beef bourguignon. He inspected it with eyes and nose. His eyes blinked before a smirk graced his lips at the familiar distinction.

"It's safe, Mama." Reborn said.

"Who is it from?" The lady asked in a teasing manner as she placed the kitchenware on the table.

The hitman chuckled. "A friend."

Nana nodded before passing him a plate and a pair of cutleries. Reborn took a seat and used a spare spoon to take some of the food. He cut a piece and put it on his mouth. He stopped himself from moaning at how delicious it was. He already knew who made this, and had eaten a lot of it, but it would never deter the taste. As much, he wanted more of it.

But he wouldn't tell him. Nope. Nah-uh. Never. Even if his hand itched to take Leon and send a text message, he'd control. Because he deserved to be anonymous. And he'd give him that.

"My. It's delicious." Nana praised with a thoughtful smile.

Reborn kept his smirk.

Tsuna looked over Soma's shoulder to see the map they were given. It wasn't that complicated to see where it went. It's just that the two clerks in the information station told them that they didn't know that such dormitory existed. Sighing inaudibly, he tapped Soma on the shoulder to give their salutation to the clerks before going out of the information center.

Since both of them didn't want to go home (which Soma doesn't want to take a train to go home, while the brunet doesn't know where his home now, except with the redhead), they agreed on staying in the dorm inside the campus. And just awhile ago, they asked where it was since it said in their notice of admission that there was an existing building, but no one recognized it. So here they were, following the direction written on the paper to get to the Polar Star Dormitory.

Talk about odd luck.

"You know..." Tsuna looked over to his friend who was already out of breath. Soma was all definition of tired and cranky with how he scowled. "I forgot that... This academy is... freaking huge..."

The brunet chortled a little before taking the heavy brazier. "I know you're cold and hungry, but we need to go. It's getting dark."

"But I'm hungry! I can't go on with dried squids anymore!" The redhead whined, and Tsuna didn't know if he wanted to feel honored or not that Soma only shows his childish side to him.

Tsuna put the grill down before opening his bag. "I have an orange here. You want some? At least you can munch on them while we walk."

Yellow eyes twinkled in delight. "Yes!"

The brunet gave the orange, closed his bag, took the heater from its spot, and started to walk again, with an energized redhead at his side.

"This academy has a lot of exaggerated buildings." Soma pointed out while looking around, munching on a piece of orange. "I mean they even have a dome. Do they do basketball or something?"

Tsuna glanced at the said building. "A cooking ground probably. Like a tournament site?"

"Hmm. You're right." Then the redhead pointed at something with his lips. "That one. A windmill. What's that for?"

Sawada looked at the building. "Dunno. For flour? Wanna ask the teachers sometimes?"

"Sure sure." Then Soma hovered a piece in front of the brunet's mouth. "Ah."

Blushing, Tsuna took the end of the orange with his teeth before moving it inside his mouth with the use of his lips. "That was uncalled for."

"Nah. You're too cute." Yukihira teased, making the brunet blush more. "Let's buy a bike next time? So we won't have any trouble walking back and forth here."

"Or I can help you with the money to buy one and I'll ride at the back?"

"Isn't that dangerous?"

A shrug. "Kinda."

"And why do it?"

"Because it's dangerous?"

The redhead snickered. "Your logic scares me, Tsuna."

"Really now." The brunet grinned, remembering how Reborn used to do that to him. "Anyway, according to the map, we should be near."

"I hope the dorm is as extravagant as these buildings." The redhead grumbled as he aggressively took a bite on an orange.

Minutes later, they found themselves standing in front of a gate of a three-story, old western-style house. The gates were open, plant vines cover the posts and the fences, and in a way, it looked scary with lights lit on the gate's posts and the house's porch only. Heck. Even the yard looked scary with how dark it was, and he could see (cue imagination) thunders and lightnings coming in and out from the clouds above it.

Tsuna felt chills run through his body, making him step back. Soma might have had the same thought as him but only stared at the house. The brunet slowly took sidesteps, towards the path they came from and tiptoed away, hugging the brazier in his arms. The whole estate screamed all things that could be related to horror movies. He needed to get out of there.

"Tsuna. Where in heck are you going?"

Tsuna gulped and looked back to his companion with a sheepish smile. "I-I think w-we should g-go h-home, S-Soma."

"Huh." Yukihira stared at his friend before a sly smirk made its way to his mouth. "Heh."

"Wah!" Sawada shouted as he tried to escape, only to be pulled back using the back of his shirt. "Soma! I don't want to go!"

"You have to! We have to!"

Tsuna looked back to the house then to Soma and shook his head. "Please!"

The redhead shook his head with a sardonic cackle. "Nope. You're coming with me. If I die, you die with me."

Soma felt bad when he put his other arm around his friend's shoulder. The brunet was whimpering as he dragged him inside. He knew Tsuna has a bad scare on ghosts. The brunet had to wake him up almost every night to go to the bathroom during the brunet's stay at his house. At first, it was confusing, a little irritating. But then, he got the idea that maybe... Tsuna had no one to say to him that ghosts didn't exist, that's why he's still scared of them. So he tolerated it, and eventually found it endearing and adorable.

He glanced at his captive when the latter stopped whimpering and struggling. He sweatdropped when he noticed the resigned and depressed expression. Regardless, he opened the door of the house and went in. Only to see a smoke coming out of one of the rooms on the second floor. Both him and Tsuna perked up at the sight, instinctively thinking that fire was erupting.

"Crap-"

"We need-"

"Hey! Room two-o-eight!" A gruff, high-pitched voice called out.

The two of them looked back to the three speakers screwed on the post by the stairs with startled looks.

"You went and modified the lounge into a smoking room again! Shall I make you into smoked chips?!" The woman behind the mic threatened.

Brown eyes and yellow eyes widened when a nonchalant teen around their age, with auburn hair and bangs covering his eyes, stepped out of the room where the smoke erupted. "Yes yes. I'm reflecting on it."

"Usako! Kanosuke! Shikanoshin! Don't leave your cages!" A shout from the west side of the house was heard, before a herd of animals came running towards the lobby, and then stopped in front of the two when they saw the brunet.

"Shit." Tsuna cussed, going behind Soma, who covered his mouth to stop himself from laughing. "Ish! Soma! It's not funny!"

"I thought it was just the animals in our street, but to think even here?!" Yukihira guffawed.

"Don't keep gibber in your room, Room one-one-six!" The same voice in the speaker admonished. "If you do it again! I'll skin your body!"

"Yes!" A girl with orange hair in twin buns and light blue eyes shouted and beckoned the animals to go inside their cages again. "Come on. Off we go." But the animals didn't move.

The little sky went out of his little hiding place. He stared at the animals who were eyeing him expectantly. He gave them a small smile and a wave. He sadly watched them off before shaking his head. He just hoped that Natsu was okay with Ieyasu. He missed his little buddy already, and Leon too since that guy slept with him sometimes after learning the truth.

"You're the transfer students who want to enter this dorm, Soma Yukihira and Tsunayoshi Sawada, right?"

Both teens turned around to see an old woman with combed back grey hair that was held in place by a red headband. She looked stern and intimidating, wearing a light brown blouse under a black apron. Tsuna went out of his hiding and stood beside Soma, who glanced at him.

"We are, Ma’am." The brunet confirmed politely.

"Heh. I'm this dorm's mother. Call me Polar Star Maria, Fumio-san." The old lady introduced herself.

'We came into a weird place again.' The two thought at the same time; one in exasperation and the other was agitation.

"I'm sure you've prepared your ingredients." Fumio stated with an expectant smirk.

"Ha?!" Both exclaimed.

"What ingredients?!" Soma questioned, confused and panicked.

Tsuna tried to remember if he read anything about ingredients needing to be brought. But he remembered nothing. (And believe him when he says none because his memory never failed him except for exams.)

"That's obvious! The Polar Star specialty skill test!" Fumio replied like they're asking about the weather. "Didn't you read the mechanics? Before you get admitted here, you have to have a dish, and the flavor must be acceptable before you get admitted. It has to be judged by the dorm leader, which is me. And you're free to bring any ingredient you wish to cook."

"We didn't hear about this!" The redhead exclaimed for the both of them. Tsuna only winced.

"Then you lose by default. You can't enter Polar Star dorm without having your skills tested." The dorm mother responded in a careless manner.

"That means-" The two teens looked at each other in horror.

"You'll have to camp." Fumio supplied.

"Don't screw with us! Don't underestimate how cold the April night is!" Soma stated in panic before deflating.

"Soma." Tsuna called, voice soothing and dripped with concern of how down the other. "It's okay. Maybe we can survive with my oranges? And you have your squids and the brazier. I can give you my jackets."

The redhead looked at his friend and smiled weakly, a little amused. "You're a sunshine, Tsuna."

"Well. There's only left overs, so you have to give up. It's not like you can make something out of those." The Polar Star Maria waved off.

The two's eyes glinted at the term 'left over'.

"So, we could use those left overs?" Soma queried, making the old lady snap her eyes towards them.

"My Kaasan did say never waste food. It causes bad luck." The brunet chimed in.

The redhead grinned. "We'll take the skill test."

Tsuna nodded. "Yeah. Can you direct us where the kitchen is, Fumio-san?"

"Alright." The dorm mother resigned after staring at them. "Follow me."

The two looked at each other and grinned.

Tsuna watched the evaluation from the side as Soma explained to Fumio how he managed to create a hamburger meal with an egg soup. He observed them as he kept track of the time. It takes a lot of time to evaluate the redhead's dish since it's that eccentric and delish. He wondered if Reborn would find his friend interesting.

The brunet wasn't really wrong when he said that the redhead's name was artistic. When he saw how it was written in kanji, he refrained himself from teasing. The kanji of 'So' meant 'True', and the kanji 'Ma' was 'Creation'. The redhead was literally a living human of boundless creation. Maa... Not like he wanted to tease the other. Maybe just point it out? He didn't want to see that heartbreaking sulk.

(They just see each other that adorable.)

"What about you, Tsuna? You made something for Fumio-san, right?" Soma called out, shaking him out of his musing. "You're brooding again."

Tsuna sheepishly smiled before opening the fridge and took two cups from there. "I'm not really confident about this."

"Don't say that." The other scolded, helping him place the food on the table where the dorm mother was sitting. "I don't want you to sleep outside."

"You like me that much?"

"I adore you that much." The other cheekily corrected as he took his own cup, knowing Tsuna would never serve anything without making one for the audience.

"Here you go." The brunet presented with a smile, glancing at his friend. "Blood orange panna cotta. Please dig in."

"This is an Italian dessert." Fumio remarked, inspecting the content of the cup. "It looks simple. The pudding is wobbly but compact. No air is seen."

"But good." Soma added. "Tsuna never makes something that isn't good. It's like he has magic."

"Don't say that. You'll make people think I'm great or something." The brunet admonished.

"But why make a dessert?" The old lady queried, quirking an eyebrow. "Do you think I'll be able to like this just because it's sweet?"

"Soma made a meal. If I make another one, the left overs won't suffice the amount of ingredients I need. In addition to that, I wanted to make something different. Something you'll enjoy after a good dinner." Tsuna reasoned out. "Besides, no one can resist sweets."

The two nodded, accepting his reason. The sky watched as both testers took their first taste. Soma made a delighted sigh while Fumio moaned. The brunet grinned a little. The two made the same expression of the kids when they first tasted his panna cotta. But that wasn't orange flavor. It was his first time since he only saw the dessert on the TV while studying Italian (he did say Reborn drilled languages into his brain), so he didn't get to add anything. He got interested and wanted to surprise the hitman, but when he remembered that his tutor didn't like sweet stuffs, he gave his first perfectly made piece to the kids.

"Light and creamy." Fumio uttered with a slump of her shoulders, as if finally relaxing. "The gelatin melted in my mouth on first touch, unlike any other. You did a perfect ratio between the gelatin and fats. And it has something in it. Something powerful but I couldn't name."

"Salt." Soma pointed out before looking at Tsuna. "Why did you put salt in it?"

"Too much sugar will kill the body." The brunet replied as he shuffled to the tap and filled up two glasses of water. "I had to put a pinch of salt to at least balance it out. I don't want anyone to suffer diabetes under my watch."

"Thanks." The dorm mother expressed before drinking the liquid. The two waited for her to settle in a little. "I didn't expect it to be salt."

"According to my tutor," Tsuna smiled a little as he remembered what Reborn told him about spices. "Salt is something that can battle hundred different spices. With just a pinch of it, it will be enough to color a food with flavor."

"Oh. I didn't know that." The redhead awed.

"I didn't also. And it did save me from a pinch." He dismissed before the two of them glanced at each other and snickered at the lame pun, even Fumio smiled at how lame it was.

"You two did great jobs. You were able to make a dish out of left overs." The dorm mother praised before smirking. "You pass. I accept your admission in the Polar Star Dormitory."

"It wasn't much." Soma humbled as he removed his bandana.

"Now. Your room will be three-o-three, Yukihira." Fumio said as she pulled out a key in a string. "You're one-twenty-seven, Sawada."

"Nice room." The redhead whistled teasingly, earning a playful glare from the brunet. "What?"

"Whatever." Tsuna dismissed, taking his bag from the door. He faced the two again and gave a small bow. "Thank you, Fumio-san. Have a good night."

"Right."

Tsuna walked out of the kitchen, twirling the key in his finger. He navigated his room and was about to enter when he noticed a brown bunny hopping towards him. He crouched down tiredly and let the little animal jump on him. He caught him, stood up, and continued his way to his room. He opened the door with the key and closed it after entering. Sighing, he slid down and let the back of his head hit the door lightly.

This was his sixth out of home place. He missed his home already. He missed his family. His friends, his mother, his bed, his tutor (hate to admit, but he does miss Reborn). He felt like he's in the future again, but instead of hiding from his enemies, he's hiding away from his family. It wasn't to protect them, but to protect himself.

He looked at the bunny that was staring at him. He smiled at the little creature, reminding him of Hibari calling him a little animal because of his determination to survive the wild life.

"Do you think I'm selfish?" He whispered before taking a deep breath to calm himself. "I'm selfish, right? Only thinking about myself when they might be suffering right now with all the attacks on them in different angles."

The bunny tilted his head.

"I'm sorry." Tsuna apologized, patting the little one's head. "I'll just get some new clothes then I'll return you to your owner."

The bunny's ears dropped.

The brunet chuckled. "Okay. I'll excuse you from her so we can play."

The little creature perked up and nodded.

"Okay. That's a plan. Wait here for a bit."

Deciding to arrange his clothes later, he only took those he needed before scooping the little bunny to his arms and went out. He kept talking to the bunny in a small voice, and the latter listened, as if he understood what the brunet was saying. When they got to the lobby, the orange haired girl he saw with Soma awhile ago was there, face showed extreme worry. Tsuna suddenly felt bad and gave the little creature in his arms a scolding stare. The creature pouted before nodding.

"Excuse me." The brunet queried. The girl looked at him. "I think he's yours."

"Usa-chan!" She called and jog towards him. "I thought I lost you." Then took the bunny from his arms. "Thank you..."

"Tsuna. You can call me Tsuna." He offered with a smile.

"I'm Yuki Yoshino! You can call me Yuki too!" She beamed.

"Okay, Yuki-chan." Then he looked at the little bunny. "Can I play with him later?"

"Oh? Usa-chan? Sure. I'll be at room one-one-six. Feel free to knock." Yuki assured.

"Hear that, buddy? I'll take you later." He smiled at the bunny who's eyes lit up in excitement.

Tsuna excused himself and went for the baths. When he opened the door, he stared at the nude form of Soma. The redhead stared at him too and smiled. His intuition nudged him. He immediately put his clothes in a basket before taking a towel from the racks and wrapped it around the redhead's waist, just in time for his friend to open the door.

He refrained himself from face-palming when he saw Tadokoro inside the tub. Saying a small apology, he closed the door and gently bonked the redhead's upside.

"I didn't know." Soma pouted.

"It's fine." Tsuna smiled before unbuttoning his shirt. "Let's just wait for Tadokoro to finish, yeah? You go have the tub, I'll only shower."

"I'll scrub your back." The redhead offered.

The brunet's face faltered, remembering his scars. "Nah. It's okay. Don't worry about me."

"Okay." The redhead grinned.

Chapter Text

Chapter Five

Soma sighed in relief as he stepped inside his room and turned on the lights. He sat on his bed, thinking how nice his bath was. It was well deserved for his opinion since he was running around, class after class, without any break on his first day.

After putting away his towel, he looked around his room. He then realized how different the setting was. That it was his first time going away. He thought of the house he always comes home to for fifteen years. Flopping on his bed, he lamented how quiet it was.

He looked at his door when he heard a knock from there. When he heard the soft voice of his friend, he sat up immediately and opened the door. Tsuna stood there on his usual sleep wear, a bunny in his arms. Both adorably tilted their heads, asking permission to enter, and he permitted with a small blush on his cheeks.

"Why are you here?" He asked, curious.

"Just wanna keep you company. This is your first time being away from home, right?" The brunet responded while settling on the floor. "This is Usa-chan, by the way. I took him from Yuki-chan."

Soma sat on his bed and stared at the bunny before moving his eyes to his friend. "Isn't this your first time too?"

"No. It's my third." Tsuna answered with a small wistful smile. "The first was pretty stressful. I had to be away for the sake of others. It was the same on the second time. And now, I just want to be free for this one. It was hard at first. You need to do some adjustments, but knowing you, you'll do fine."

"Tsuna." The redhead called before smiling appreciatively for the stay and honesty. It wasn't every day that Tsuna shares something valuable to him. "Thank you."

The brunet beamed. "You're welcome."

Both basked themselves in silence. Soma went to lay on his bed, keeping an eye on his companions who started to play. He began to remember those days Tsuna spent his time in the Yukihira house.

To his opinion, Tsuna is not that bad. He's the best even. He helps around the house, tells Soma what he'll do as if asking a permission if he can do it, and always indulges him to a talk about himself. The neighbors love him as much as they love the redhead. Even the animals go around and try their best to have the brunet's attention. Too bad, Soma has all of it.

He noticed how Tsuna wears shirts and jackets. Always the jackets, especially hoodies. The pills, gloves and headphones were tacked in his pockets almost everywhere they go. There’re also the lenses too. How he always pats his hair, as if trying to secure something, only to freeze and realize that there's nothing in there. He observed the alert stances whenever they walked home in the evening after going for a little shopping. And the way the other looked so sad and nostalgic whenever he quotes something his tutor or mother said.

He rarely saw him use the newly bought phone (the old one was given to the teller of the phone they purchased from). He never once heard the brunet say anything about contacting his mother. As if that call Tsuna received after they got the new phone was already enough to ease his parent's worry. Then there's the bath. Like awhile ago, his fellow teen faltered when he offered a scrub. It's like he has something he doesn't want Yukihira to see. Soma may dismiss that, but he's still curious.

Tsuna has been anything but bad to him. Sometimes, he finds himself whining and complaining to the brunet. And the latter will take it in a stride, always looking at him fondly and encourages him to do it more. He never gets angry nor shoos him away. The brunet was like a combination of a good friend, an understanding mother, and a dependable older brother. Sawada even tolerates his ways of making others eat his squid with peanut combination. What interest him the most was when Tsuna gladly ate some and suggested other food that can be a good or bad combination, like banana and ketchup, or octopus and icing. His father will have a good laugh once he meets Tsuna.

He sighed. He just hopes that Tsuna will trust him enough to confide him his secrets.

He peeled his eyes away from his friend when Tsuna was about to glance at him. When he looked at his ceiling, he almost jumped out of the bed when a guy opened the tile of his ceiling and smiled down at them.

"No wonder I couldn't find the other one; you were together. Come, you two. We're having your welcome party." The guy said before closing his little window.

He and Tsuna looked at each other and shrugged. Even the bunny was trembling in shock at the sudden appearance of that guy. Seriously, the people in this dormitory are weird.

Tsuna stayed behind Soma as they sat beside Tadokoro in room two-o-five. Letting his guard down, he looked around the vicinity they entered. A lot of bookshelves filled with books to the brim covered both sides of the room, though on his left is a big bed. A window was placed on the wall ahead with a study table on its left. It's rather clean too except for the wine bottle near the lady, with long magenta hair and orange eyes, sitting on a black luggage, and the plates of food in front of them.

Seven people were in there, excluding them and that sempai who told them to come (and almost gave Soma a heart attack). He blinked when he noticed Yuki sitting on the bed. The guy who made the lounge room a smoke room was there too. Two rough looking guys were also with them, one with black hair and another with dyed blond. There's also a studious one with round glasses.

They're not that weird. But then again, what kind of weird was he looking for? At what standard too? Mukuro’s perhaps? He almost snickered at what he thought. His ex-mist will probably have a field day with him if he says that.

"Tsuna-san!" Yuki called from her spot with a good wave. Tsuna smiled and waved too. "You brought Usa-chan!"

"I couldn't let him go and roam around." He put the bunny between the space of his crossed legs. "It's dangerous for him, even though he's a little animal." Ah. That reminded him of Hibari.

"Anyway, why are you here again?" The guy with glasses asked, exasperated and irate. "I told you, I'm busy studying for the written exams. If you like to party, feel free to do it in another room! Why do it in mine?!"

"It can't be helped." Yuki shrugged as she inspected her nails. "Marui's room is the biggest room in here. And it's always clean when we come too."

"Don't just go and sit on my bed!" Marui shouted in indignation.

Tsuna sweat dropped at that.

"Well, I never thought we'd be together with Tadokoro-san in the same dorm." Soma commented while glancing at Tadokoro.

"You're right." Tadokoro murmured before she suddenly went still and looked at the redhead with surprise and awe in her expression. "Wait! That means that Soma-kun-- You passed the dorm entrance exam skill test at your first try?!"

Soma smiled and took Tsuna's hand, taking the latter by surprise. "Tsuna and I did. We somehow managed."

"Wow!" Tadokoro exclaimed, eyes looking back and forth between them. "That's so amazing. I don't think there's much people who passed on their first try." Then she visibly slumped.

Yukihira shrugged. "I guess so."

"It's actually by luck, Tadokoro-san." Tsuna said with a wave of his hand and a shy smile. "I only passed by sheer luck while Soma did on his own creativity."

"You're so shy!" Soma said as he pinched Tsuna's both cheeks. "Why can't you be proud of what you've done? That orange panna cotta is creative too!"

"Shh!" The brunet shushed before chuckling when the redhead let him go. "It's a secret of how we got in here, okay?"

Yukihira's eyes widened and nodded like a child. "Okay."

"Hey hey!" Tsuna looked back to see the guy, who called them there, enter the room, looking a little surprised. "I called everyone in the dorm, but not even half of them is here."

"Well, it can't be helped." The rough noiret guy among them shrugged.

"Isshiki-sempai tells us to gather almost every day so everyone's got tired of it." The rough blond guy seconded with a nod.

"They got tired? That can't be, right? I mean Tadokoro-chan always participates." Isshiki-sempai pouted.

Tsuna chuckled, hugging the rabbit closer to his chest as he remembered how everyone in his family gather almost everyday in school too. Even though Mukuro is in Kokuyou, he will always have a time to show up and rile up everyone. Hayato will shout threats and Takeshi will try to placate. Nii-san will talk about extremeness and about being a man. Then Hibari will suddenly arrive and attack them with his usual catchphrase.

He shook his head lightly as he looked down to the floor. It has been weeks. Months even, since he experienced those. He misses them dearly. Ieyasu must be really happy by now. His best friends are the best right and left hands, Onii-san is the best brother one can have, Hibari will always be there, and Chrome and Mukuro are always on vigilant with him. Lambo will always welcome him home with Ipin and Fuuta. Bianchi will also smile at him with their Mom saying 'Welcome back'. And Reborn... Reborn is there to guide him.

Oh how much he suffered to gain such life, only to be taken away from him.

"So,"

Tsuna looked up to see all of the people inside the room are looking at the two of them.

"I'm a second year, Isshiki." The guy, who invited them, introduced himself with a welcoming smile. He reminds him of Dino. "You can call me Isshiki-sempai. Welcome to Polar Star dorm, Soma Yukihira and Tsunayoshi Sawada."

"Thank you." Tsuna nodded with his own smile.

"Okay! Let's have a toast!" Isshiki-sempai announced with exuberance. "All of you grab a drink!"

The room went to full party mode.

Tsuna took the cup Tadokoro handed to him and gave a small thanks. Ryouko Sakaki, the lady with magenta hair, poured him some drink from the bottle he noticed from awhile ago. Although it was a far cry from the assassinations he receives and the place is trustworthy to be relaxed, he still didn't drink the liquid since his intuition hummed him about it. It wasn't alcohol but close to it. He won't risk it, even if it will make Reborn happy.

He looked at the side and noticed the guy from two-o-eight. He must have stared since the guy looked at him. He grimaced before making a small smile and slid the cup towards him.

"You can have it. I don't drink." He said.

The guy perked up, interested. "How did you know it's alcohol?"

"Ah. The smell?" Tsuna replied in an unsure manner. "My father once made me drink when I was little, so I kinda had this sensitive nose for alcohol. But it's not entirely made up of alcohol."

"Oh. That's some nice sensitivity." The guy nodded. "Sawada, right?"

"Tsuna is alright." He offered as he picked a food from the plate that was offered to him by Yuki. "Do you want some?"

"Sure." The guy answered as he reached out and took some. "I'm Shun Ibusaki. Since you're letting me call you by your nickname, you can call me Shun."

"Shun-kun?" He tested.

"Just Shun."

"Hm. Shun?" He tested again. The other nodded. "Thanks."

"Hey," Tsuna focused on Soma, who looked confused with his attention on Sakaki and Yuki. "you know what that 'Elite Ten' is?"

The brunet slanted his head a little to the left. "Elite Ten?"

"Wait. Should I be asking if that's a food?" Soma joked with a teasing grin darted to his friend. Tsuna laughed at that.

"Eh..." Sakaki voiced out in disbelief. "You're seriously asking that?"

"You two really entered Tootsuki without knowing anything, huh?" Yuki mused.

Tsuna laughed nervously. If he didn't run away, he wouldn't be meeting any of them today. Or probably asking Reborn or Shoichi about the school. He did learn that the director, Senzaemon Nakiri, is part of Mafia but in the food business. Heh. He'll tackle about that in the future.

"Tootsuki Elite Ten council is a committee formed by the best ten students in the internal evaluation. Here in Tootsuki, many affairs are left for the students to decide. What to do in those affairs is decided by the members of the Elite Ten in their conferences." Sakaki explained with patience.

"It's truly the highest decision-making organ in the academy. They're directly below the director in the organizational chart. Even the lecturers must obey the Elite Ten." Yuki added. "Decades ago, when the dorm's rooms have no vacancies, a lot of the Elite Ten came from Polar Star."

"It seems there was even a year when the Elite Ten was made entirely up of Polar Star student-"

"Really?" Tsuna blurted out, awestruck while Sakaki continued to explain to Soma.

"Yes." Shun responded. "Fumio-san talks about it almost all the time."

The brunet chuckled. "I bet you're one of her victims?"

Shun only sighed, making him laugh more.

"-Erina Nakiri is one of the ten." Sakaki continued that the brunet heard.

"Woah! She's really amazing." Sawada praised, making Tadokoro look at him. "I mean she was our proctor in our entrance exam, and she has excellent grades. I'm not good like that."

"You're a good cook though." The bluenette pointed out.

"Nah. I'm honestly no-good." He smiled before watching the others.

Tadokoro looked at him with a new light. "I can sympathize. I feel like I'm no good with anything, especially with my scores in class and my poor performance."

Tsuna pursed his lips as he looked back on the day's event. "But you know, you also got your A because you helped Soma cook. He wouldn't know the ingredients and procedure of the beef bourguignon if you weren't there. So, you should also thank yourself. Sometimes, even no-good like us have some skills here and there we haven't yet discovered or we're just too shy to show." And he winked.

Tadokoro flushed a little before smiling widely. "Maybe."

The others who went out came back with more food and beverages. He discovered that the drink Sakaki gave was a juice made from rice. He didn't point out that it has a small alcohol content in it. Soma was ecstatic about it though, really amazed that Tsuna couldn't help himself from smiling. The redhead could use some socialization from people he can relate with in terms of cooking.

The party was really at full swing. He didn't mind being left alone by the side when Shun went out to get some of his smoked food after the others complained of not having enough food to enjoy the party. Even the others gave their own contribution. He couldn't help the laughter and the grimace that crossed his features when Isshiki-sempai stripped his clothes and left an apron only. It escalated the gathering more. Soma was so into the party, even Marui couldn't help joining. He did nimble on the squid with peanut butter delicacy Soma took out. He can stand the taste. Bianchi has much worse.

After a few hours, the party died down. The girls have curled on the floor like the others. The only ones not asleep were him, Soma, and Isshiki. Even Shun, who was sitting beside him, went for a nap. Placing the sleeping Usa-chan to Yuki's waiting arms, he went to silently clean up the place. He doesn't want to trouble Marui from cleaning everything in the morning.

"Ah, Tsunayoshi-kun. You don't have to do the cleanup." Isshiki-sempai said with a gentle smile. Tsuna shook his head as he put a blanket on Marui's sleeping figure.

"It's okay. I don't want to trouble him with the mess he'll see. At least he only has to sweep the room or something with the mess arranged in a pile." He answered.

"You're so nice." The older teen whistled before smiling pleasantly. "Even so, welcome to Tootsuki Academy and Polar Star dorm, Tsunayoshi-kun and Soma. Best regards, yeah?"

Tsuna nodded while Soma gave a positive respond. "Yeah. Same here."

"Hmm. We're out of food." Isshiki-sempai observed as he took the empty plate and stood up. "There should be some left slice of Spanish mackerel. I'll make something."

The brunet grimaced when Soma said, "You're gonna cook looking like that?"

But Isshiki-sempai only smiled before going out.

"Na, Tsuna." Soma called as he started to pick up the cups beside him as well. "Did you have fun?"

He froze and looked back to the redhead who's staring at him with his yellow eyes. Tsuna asked himself. Did he have fun? It's not as fun as the ones in Namimori, but he did have some good laughs like any other.

"You've been hanging at the back since the beginning. I thought you were feeling awkward or something." Yukihira elaborated.

Sawada blinked and chuckled. "I had fun, Soma. It's you who I was worried about. You were never one to socialize. I thought it will be hard for you to fit in a group of people who also know how to cook. Good thing you're naturally friendly. Perks of facing clients, huh?"

"Hey. Don't take that as a jab. I was only pertaining to those people in the ceremony." Soma pouted.

"Kidding, kidding." Tsuna placated as he placed the plates beside the empty cups the redhead had stacked up. "But thank you." He smiled a grateful one. "Don't worry about me, Soma. I can take care of myself."

"I know. And I saw you talking to Ibusaki. At least I know you're warming up." Tsuna followed the redhead when the latter leaned on the bookshelves. "I'll bet this year's going to be so different from what I expected."

"Hmm..." The brunet hummed in thoughts.

They shared a contented silence, waiting for their sempai to come back. It was their usual thing. They never demand noise, as long as they're okay, they're okay.

Tsuna didn't know when did he fall asleep, but he found himself waking up with Soma cleaning his knife. He looked up to see who is he leaning on, only to panic when he saw Shun's blue eyes looking at him. He hurriedly sat back straight and winced. Soma probably noticed him awake because the redhead smiled teasingly.

"Sorry, Tsuna. I thought you were going to lean to me, but you went for Ibusaki." Soma said with a sly smile.

Tsuna glared at him. "You could've taken me."

"Isshiki-sempai and him had a cook off." Shun informed while sitting upright too. "It was interesting."

"Oh." Then the brunet winced. "I'm so sorry, Shun. I didn't notice I blacked out. I was awake when Isshiki-sempai came in though."

"No worries." The other waved off.

"Anyway, bathroom, Tsuna?" Soma questioned while picking up his knife case after arranging his knife in there. "You can come with us on the way out, Ibusaki."

Tsuna tried to examine himself and nodded sheepishly to the redhead. "Yeah. Sorry about this, Soma."

"It's okay. Don't want some ghost taking you somewhere." Yukihira teased as they got up.

"You're afraid of ghost, Tsunayoshi-kun?" Isshiki-sempai questioned after arranging the last bottles on the side. "That's quite strange in your age."

The brunet blushed in embarrassment.

"He is. Even if you say there's no such thing in the dorm, he won't still be okay." Soma snickered while taking his hand. "Come on. Thanks for the battle, Sempai. Tomorrow at latest."

"Hmm." The older teen only hummed, still smiling pleasantly.

He, Soma, and Shun went out of the room. Tsuna waved Shun a goodbye with another soft apology on leaning on him before they proceeded to the bathroom. Soma waited for him outside while he did his thing.

It's not his fault that he still has nightmares about Daemon Spade and the Vendice. They still scare him. Especially the former since he had done a lot of things to his family. Remembering how he suddenly pops out anywhere just to get his revenge does not settle well to Tsuna. Up until now, he fears that Daemon Spade will come get him for being Primo's descendant and the Vongola Decimo-

Ah right. It has been three months.

"You okay?" Soma queried when he got out.

Tsuna blinked and smiled softly. "Why won't I be?"

Yellow eyes stared at him for a sec before saying something that changed the subject. "You should've tasted Isshiki-sempai's Spanish mackerel. It was full of spring."

"I bet you fought it off with your own version." He remarked as they made their way to the stairs.

"I did! And he said it was good!" The redhead gloated. "I'm gonna challenge him for his seat. He owns the seventh seat in the Elite Ten."

Tsuna stared at his friend, unsure with the idea. "Are you sure? Don't you think it's too easy for you to challenge him like that? Don't tell me you're going to wake up early tomorrow just for that?"

"I was planning to." The redhead nodded.

He sighed. "Soma, sleep is important. You said that once. Are you going to risk your health and never cook again?"

They stopped by the stairs.

"I'll sleep in just a little." The redhead sheepishly said.

Tsuna contemplated before shrugging. He doesn't want to burst the other's bubble. "Okay. Sleep well, Soma. You will need a lot of energy if you're going to challenge the seventh seat."

Yukihira beamed. "Yeah! Good night, Tsuna."

Tsuna nodded. "Good night, Soma."

He watched as the other ascended the stairs for the third floor. When Soma went out of view, he descended the stairs for the ground floor and went for his room. He locked the door softly behind him and sat on his bed, watching the sky outside the window. With a melancholy look, he wondered all night about his family in Namimori

Chapter Text

Chapter Six

Tsuna tried not to fidget on his seat. His intuition had assured him that he's not in trouble, but he knew there's more to it.

That morning, he was called out by one of the teachers to go the director's building. He bid his goodbye to Soma who was okay with it. Well, everything is okay with the redhead, as long as Tsuna won't get hurt. Although, the redhead was pretty excited about seeing the clubs in the academy with him. Too bad, he and Tadokoro were the only ones who will see them now.

So right now, he's sitting in a cushion in front of a low black table, waiting for the director to come. He's in a traditional Japanese room with tatami floors and translucent sliding doors and walls. The only difference was the fact that they're ten floors high from the ground. He commends the interior designer of the building. It's impressive and so realistic.

He looked up when the door slid open and Senzaemon Nakiri entered. Tsuna didn't need to straighten his posture, but he did stop his nervous fidgeting as the old man walked in and sat down across him. Just like their first meeting, the old man appraised him with watchful eyes.

"You do not need to be formal around me, Sawada. You're not in trouble." That made him sigh in relief. "But I must apologize."

Brown eyes met purple ones; silent question was conveyed.

"I dug some information about you for the entire week, Sawada." Senzaemon answered.

Tsuna slowly nodded in understanding, his brain processing the information. "It cannot be helped. It is a standard operation to do such a thing when I came off as a stranger in your list."

"But I'm wondering why the Vongola Decimo was wondering around without his guardians nor his tutor. It is dangerous for you to do so."

He can't help grimacing. "I'm not the Vongola Decimo, Sir. I'm the brother of the Vongola Decimo."

The old man stared at him.

"I was a cover up." Tsuna looked down to his hands that had clenched the fabric of his trousers. "My twin brother was the true Vongola Decimo, hence my missing guardians and tutor."

"Then why were you wandering around?"

"I wanted to get away from my town. Assassins kept on coming at me even though Vongola already announced who is the Decimo between me and my twin. And everything became suffocating. Besides, what will be the use of me now that I've done my part?"

A silence engulfed the room.

"You did the right choice, my boy." Tsuna looked up to see the old man smiling softly at him. It wasn't pity, more like respect. "I do not know what hardship you have been through, but I know you do not deserve such treatment."

"My tutor already pointed out how idiot my father is, no worries." The brunet smiled wryly. "I do hope you won't take away my place in the academy, Sir."

"I will never, Sawada. You are a gifted one. If you can survive the greatest hitman's training, then you can survive the pressure in this school. And I bet Soma Yukihira will not take it lightly if I pull you out." The director remarked. "As a matter of fact, I will give you protection within the walls of the academy and under the name of the Nakiri. My family do not owe Vongola favors, but we treasure gifts. And the famous Vongola intuition is one of them."

"Thank you." Tsuna said in relief. "I will forever be grateful to you, Sir Nakiri."

"No problem, my child. You deserve such break. But, when will you tell Yukihira about this? Secrets cannot be kept forever."

The teen gnawed on his lips. "In due time, Sir. I don't want Soma to be endangered by omerta. I have to consult someone first before I tell him everything."

"Very well. Keep up the good work then. I heard you're the one keeping Yukihira from getting into trouble." The old man joked.

Tsuna chuckled. "I had lots of practice. Who knows what he's up to now."

No. Tsuna takes back his words. He does not have a lot of practice in this kind of situation.

"What did you get yourself into now, Soma Yukihira?" He asked the dejected redhead in front of him.

"A Shokugeki." Soma answered, pouting.

Tsuna hummed, relishing the cute pout on the redhead. It's not every day that Soma is pouting, and it's cute. "With?"

"Ikumi Mito." He responded snappily, almost excited. "She was closing the Don Research Society under Erina Nakiri's order. And it's unfair because donburi is good, you know. And the RS members ran away when they found out that Nakiri wanted to shut down the RS because her subordinates are that scary."

Tsuna looked at Tadokoro and the guy with pompadour hair style, he knew now as Kanichi Konishi that reminds him of Kusakabe. "What's Shokugeki again?"

"Oh." The bluenette blurted before explaining the cooking competition. "Shokugeki is a form of challenges that settles disputes between students. They must have equal compensation."

"Then what were your conditions?" Tsuna queried on Soma.

"If she wins, I'm quitting Tootsuki." The brunet's eyes flashed orange on that. "If I win, she's going to join Don RS as a form of apology for all the trouble she did."

Tsuna rolled his shoulders and leaned on the counter. "Well, that can't be helped. If you quit, I'll quit too. So, you need to win in order for us not to be kicked out."

The brunet chuckled when those yellow eyes brightened. Seriously, Soma will always be like this with him around. Tsuna watched the three proceeded to helping Soma create an ultimate donburi with meat as a main ingredient. It's a challenge since there are possible meats to come up with.

Propping his cheek on his hand, he gazed at the three who are starting to strategize a good donburi to make. His mind wondered to what happened to him that morning though. With all honesty, he didn't mean to pour a little of his heart to the director. Maybe it was the utmost trust the old man gave him even though they only met briefly. Regardless, some of the loads on his shoulders have lifted, making him breathe a little easier. Then when he went out of the building, he got the rumor that one of the transferees challenged one of Nakiri's subordinate with a Shokugeki that will happen in three days. He already knew that it was Soma, but the reason? He extracted just now.

He eyed his friend, who's cooking, with a small smile. Like Director Nakiri, Soma also trusted him even though they only interacted a little on their first meeting. It was so unlike of his friends. Ah. Except for Takeshi since that guy never fails to trust anyone who doesn't hurt him. He doesn't even think Reborn trusted him from the very start.

"Tsuna-kun?"

"Hmm?" He hummed in question, eyes zeroing on Tadokoro who placed a glass of water in front of him.

"I'm also worried of Yukihira-kun." The bluenette admitted. "But we need to believe in him."

"I do believe in him." The brunet responded. "I don't doubt his ability. He's a master of creation."

"I think so too."

Brown eyes surveyed the lady's expression. "Thank you for sticking up with him."

Tadokoro blushed a little but a smile bloomed on her face. "No worries. I like being with you. It's like you're my friends."

"We are friends." Tsuna declared, heart fluttering. "Soma will say the same."

The smile widened. "Thank you."

Tsuna can't help comparing Tadokoro to a rain.

Tsuna ran for the stairs, two steps at a time. When he reached the door, he knocked softly. He patiently waited, dancing on the balls of his feet. When there's no answer, he knocked twice again. He grimaced when soft footsteps were heard approaching the door. The wood opened and an awake Soma came into view.

"Bathroom?" Soma questioned.

He nodded rapidly, panicked.

The redhead snickered as he shuffled out. He took his hand and guided him to the nearest bathroom on the floor. "Come on, Scaredy-cat."

Tsuna blushed a little at the tease. He went inside the bathroom and did his thing. When he went out, he stared at a thoughtful and calculating Soma. The redhead has eye-bags under his eyes, yet he looked energized despite the telltale of tiredness on his body. It reminds him of those times Reborn works him to the bone for those fights they had to win for the sake of the family.

Tsuna shook his head. Why can't he move on?

"Done?" The redhead's voice called out. He nodded. "You look distracted."

"Just thinking." Tsuna waved off before staring at the redhead. "How about you? Why are you still awake?"

"Stuffs. For tomorrow." Soma shrugged.

"Can I come to your room?" He asked as they started to walk.

"You won't get enough sleep then." The redhead pointed out.

Tsuna's heart clenched in the thought of Soma staying up late alone. "Don't care. I don't want to leave you alone."

Yellow eyes blinked at him before a grateful smile was shot on his way. "Okay."

When they entered the room, Tsuna mused how messy it was. There are books and notes everywhere. He peered at the one Soma took from the desk and started to read. It was probably the book Tadokoro found. A Japanese Steak Donburi.

He was there when the three of them felt so slumped. When Soma ran out of the room to check on his money for the ingredients he will need to buy. And when Soma got the idea. But knowing the redhead, he will find more ways to glow up the food. To make it more delicious than it was. Soma is always on trial and error.

He sat on the bed and took one of the magazines he saw. They were all about food and the chefs. Some were five-stars chefs and their amazing restaurants. Flipping the pages, he mused how tasty the food in their pictures. Reborn did say to him that presentation, at any form be it human, things, animals or food, is a must. The way you present yourself is one way of gaining an impression.

He snickered a little when he remembered Bianchi's cooking. If only Bianchi's food looked good sometimes, Tsuna would’ve considered eating them. On rare times, he could sympathize with Reborn. That guy has to avoid every attempt his lover would make just to get away from the poison cooking. He wonders how the lady made Romeo ate her food. Too bad the guy is in the afterlife now after the exorcism they did.

A shiver went down to his spine at the thought of the ghost.

"What are you snickering about?" Soma asked from his perch.

"Nothing." Tsuna gave a twitchy smile. He wants to snicker. "Just some memories."

"Oh. Share." The redhead urged, really intrigued.

"I told you my family is big, right?" He queried. Soma nodded. "My tutor has his fourth lover living with us. His lover has this unique ability. She can make the food she cooks go nasty and poisonous."

"Woah. Does she know?" The redhead questioned, interested.

Tsuna chuckled. "She's aware. But she really loves cooking and she wants to feed it to my tutor. Imagine my sadistic tutor dodging every advance his lover makes to make him eat the food."

Soma grimaced before laughing. "Damn. That will be hilarious."

"Oh. Don't let me start whenever her brother sees her face. He always faints." He grinned, remembering Gokudera's face. Now that he thinks back, Bianchi never covers her face since Ieyasu was announced the Decimo. It always takes the silveret by surprise, causing him to faint right on the spot.

"Why?" Yukihira asked with oozing curiosity.

"Apparently, she baked cookies for him when they were toddlers. Her brother is a pianist at that time, and every time he plays, she presents him those poisoned cookies. So, whenever they see each other after he grew up away from her, his stomach remembers the aches then faints on the spot." He elaborated.

Soma snickered. "That's nasty. Good thing no one faints on my squids."

Tsuna gave him a deadpan expression. "Remember Juno-san?"

"That," The redhead pointed out with a wince. "Is an exemption."

"Huh?"

"Really!"

They stared at each other before tittering again.

"Naa, Soma." Tsuna called out when they calmed down.

"Yup?"

"If you need help, you can always tell me." He offered, toying with the tip of the page. "I don't really mind if you borrow some money. As long as I can eat some of the food you'll make, you've paid."

Yellow eyes shone. "That's not a good compensation."

"You were asked to quit Tootsuki, while you asked her to join the research society." He countered.

Silence.

"Why are you so good with this?" Soma whined pertaining to his reasoning.

Tsuna only grinned. This is one of those times he's so thankful he took up Reborn's snarks. "So?"

"Deal! But I'll give it to you once the judges ate their shares. You better eat all of it."

He rolled his eyes. "Since when did I never finish your food, Soma?"

The redhead went red in embarrassment, causing him to laugh. "Hey! It's not funny!"

"Uh-huh." He indulged, still laughing.

Tsuna doesn't know if he should laugh or cry at how many people came to see the Shokugeki between Soma and Ikumi Mito. He made a good mental note of smacking Soma's arm for being a challenger next time. If he didn't say anything about taking the top, he won't be this popular.

Maneuvering between people, Tsuna tried his hardest not to show his nervousness. He's not really good with crowds. Not that he's scared. It's just that there can be a lot of things that can happen in the crowd. Like stampede or crowd bullying. He suddenly remembered those dame days he has in Namimori. They were really the toughest.

Speaking of Namimori, he hadn't texted nor called his mother nor Reborn. The last thing he gave was the beef bourguignon he shipped off for his tutor. Reborn likes those kinds of cuisines. Tsuna bet the hitman misses those food. He wanted to check on the others too. It can't be helped since he still thinks of them as family. Not that they'll care about his whereabouts.

Tsuna shook his head. Really. He needs to move on. He can't be stuck on the past. Reborn will smack him if he dwells in there. Or maybe he just needs a closure about the topic. He does feel bitter about it. Or something to take his mind off it.

Like a light bulb, he brightened when an idea crossed his mind.

Sitting on the empty seat he saw; he took out his phone and searched for the note app. He started to rock his head for the exercises he needs to be doing starting tonight. Even if he doesn't have anything to do, he still needs to be in shape. Reborn will surely kill him if he slacks off. Just remembering those kick and smacks, he can already feel the body pain. And it could be a good thing to keep things out of his mind.

"Thank you for waiting!"

Tsuna looked up to see a noirette in their academy's female uniform and holding a mic. Probably the emcee.

"The Shokugeki administration bureau had recognized this match as an official Shokugeki! Soon," The lady gave an idol-ish dazzling smile. "It will start!"

The stadium shook with the intensity of the students' cheers. Tsuna took that as a sign to put away his phone and stood up to go for the railings. Good thing he's near the part where Soma will cook.

"We have three judges!" The lady presented the three people in front of a long table which composed of a woman in kimono and two men in suits. "The theme is Donburi! The main ingredient is meat! Well then, from each corner, both contenders will enter!"

The students cheered again, thundering the stadium.

"The first one to appear is the meat master-" The lady waved her hand to the left. "-Ikumi Mito!"

Tsuna blinked when all of the boys around his age screamed when a hooded person went out of the left corner. When the person removed his cloak, the brunet blushed. Who wouldn't?

Ikumi Mito is only wearing a bikini top with short jeans that almost looked like an underwear with how short it is. She has this very short blond hair and tan skin. Plump lips and good figure. Probably raised in a western lifestyle. She looks really confident too.

"Now next! Soma Yukihira makes his entry!" The lady introduced with a wave of her right hand.

Tsuna can't help himself from curling his hands into fists when the stadium went for a loud 'boo' just as Soma, Tadokoro and Kanichi strode down the right corner. Some even shouted for Soma to drop dead or die for saying those things in the ceremony. There are also those speculations that Ikumi Mito will surely win without knowing how good Soma is.

Even if Soma did say offensive things, he was just being himself and he doesn't deserve such scrutiny. So the brunet raised his hands to cup his mouth and took a good amount of oxygen in the air to ready himself.

"Go Soma!" He shouted amidst the riot. It gained attentions from the people beside him. "You can do it! Go Soma!"

His effort wasn't put in vain. The redhead turned to his position and searched for him. Tsuna smiled and raised a hand, the other still cupping his mouth.

"Go Soma! Show them what you're made of!" He shouted more, gaining his friend's attention.

Yellow eyes glimmered in happiness. The hand that has a towel tied in it was raised like his too. "Thank you, Tsuna!"

"Oho! Ladies and gentlemen, there is one who is not booing at Soma Yukihira. It's our second transferee! Tsunayoshi Sawada!" The emcee announced. This announcement caused him to gain the camera's attention.

But he didn't bother to look up. He just stared contently at Soma who was standing in front of Mito. He can't help smiling when he saw the familiar challenging smirk on the redhead. His friend never fails to make him smile.

"Oh my- Ahem. Now! Let's go through this match's conditions again. If Mito-san wins, the Don RS will be abolished and Yukihira-kun will be expelled. If Yukihira-kun wins, the Don RS budget will increase, their clubroom will be enlarged and they will get more cooking equipment. Furthermore, Mito-san will join the Don RS!"

The bleachers erupted with cheers again.

"I-It's Erina Nakiri!" One of the students shouted causing everyone to look up.

Tsuna looked at the observation box separated from the bleachers. And there she is, walking to sit on one of the plush seats with Arato behind her. She has this shine of expectation in her eyes. He can't help sighing. Oh, how he thought his intuition was wrong about all this. Even Erina wants to expel Soma. Either way, not that Yukihira will get expelled.

Tsuna mused how the redhead pulled out the towel from his wrist and tied it around his forehead. It was cool. And he means it. Soma is always cool. As cool as Takeshi and Hibari. As good as Gokudera when studying things too. The only time he becomes the Soma Yukihira he loves to spoil is when they're in front of each other. But he knew Soma can be much matured than that. Because the redhead is far sensitive than he gives. He knew when to push a subject or not. He knew something is wrong even if Tsuna doesn't show it. And the brunet can see the inevitable time when the two of them will fight over something that will cause them to rift.

Just the thought of that makes his gut clench and his heart crack.

Can he bear such tension between them?

He doesn't know.

"Now contestants, to your kitchen! Let's go!" The emcee cheered and the two stepped back to stand just beside their carts. "The loser loses everything! A decisive match on the tongue! Shokugeki-!"

Tsuna shook his head as he saw the glaze of competitiveness on Soma's yellow eyes. He'll worry that problem in the future. Right now, Soma needs his faith, and he will gladly give it.

"Start!"

Chapter Text

Chapter Seven

The battle started. Tsuna blinked when Mito pulled out a skinned cow hanging on some bar. She started to butcher it with her big knife, causing a lot of his fellow students cry in awe. Well, it is impressive. She's showing her talent and specialty with trained movements. He shrugged and looked at Soma's station.

Brown eyes met yellow ones. He blinked and grinned when the redhead gave him a playful wink before continuing what he was doing with a sedate pace. It's like he was back in the Yukihira diner, preparing food for the locals. At any place, as long as there is a kitchen, Soma will feel at home.

He cracked a laughter when they focused their attention on the redhead who brought out his ingredients that was bought at some market place. Soma did take some of his money, albeit reluctant and shy. He didn't really mind since he has more saved (and some are back in Namimori). It was Kanichi who brought all the ingredients the cook needed while he was shooed away to watch the competition.

In a sense, brought meat from the store doesn't compare well enough to the meat Mito has. But it's all in plate. As long as you have the right healthy ingredients, right tools, and right mind, there is no danger in it.

Sitting back, Tsuna enjoyed the mouthwatering aroma that's drifting around the stadium. It was a mixture, and he likes the smell of meat. Good thing he ate breakfast (Not that Fumio and Isshiki will permit anyone to go out without a proper breakfast).

He watched everything play out after the bell rang, indicating that the time's up. He watched as the judges evaluated Mito's donburi, negatively mouthed Soma's dish only to eat their words and ask for seconds after they tasted it. He grinned when Soma teased the blondie before thrusting a bowl of donburi in her hands. Tsuna questions though why they go all moaning and spasm-ing sometimes whenever they eat something delicious. He does moan when the food is delicious, especially when he's really hungry, but not that loud. Even Soma doesn't do that.

In the end, Soma won the Shokugeki. Taking out his phone, Tsuna took a quick snap for a picture and contemplated on sending it to Nana. He shrugged and sent it to both her and Reborn. He wants Nana to meet Soma, so achievements are a must to show; and Reborn did say occasional updates, so that's occasional then?

"Tsuna!" He looked up to the familiar voice that called him. Soma waved him over. "Come on! I'll give you your don!"

He stood back up. "Now?"

"When else?" The redhead rolled his eyes on him playfully.

Tsuna went over the railing and landed on his legs. His stunt elicited some surprised gaps, but he didn't really hear. He was focused on Soma's smiling face. The redhead is really happy.

"Congratulations." He greeted as he took a sit on the stool. "You were so cool."

Yellow eyes flickered to his way, amused and grateful. "Yeah?"

"Yup! And they were all shouting when you pulled out your meat. But you didn't mind. I think you even wanted to rile them up." Tsuna looked down on his hands that are between his open legs, gripping the seat to the point they're white. "You're so awesome, Soma."

"You're awesome too." A bowl was placed in front of him. "Wash up and eat. Wait for me to finish up cleaning."

He went out of his seat, washed his hands on the tap before returning, taking his lunch. "Sure. Thanks, Soma."

"Nah." The redhead dismissed and smiled at him. "Thank you for cheering for me even though their boos were louder."

"What are friends for?" The brunet smiled before he started to eat.

The other only smiled back.

"You're really an amazing man, Yukihira." The two looked at Kanichi who put a hand on Soma's right shoulder. "You're the only one who can carry on the Don RS.” Tsuna blinked and muffled his laughter when Kanichi went on with a serious look. "The next don of Don RS is you, Yukihira." Kanichi continued.

Silence.

"But I won't join the club." Soma said with a blink of his eyes.

"Eh?!" The chef of Don RS blurted.

"Eh? I mean I just went to see what it was like. And thanks to that, I was able to make a new Don dish." Then Soma put a hand on Kanichi's shoulder and smiled brightly. "Good work, Kanichi-san. I'll visit you sometimes."

Tsuna ate the last of his Don and drank his water, a smile on his lips while watching Kanichi walk away with a shocked aura. "You should've clarified it to him in the first place."

"I thought he knew." Soma uttered while cleaning the bowl and the glass under the water tap.

"Of course, he'll misinterpret. You took the Shokugeki he was about to do." The brunet leaned back, brown eyes flashing orange as his intuition takes on every variable. "If I knew, you took this Shokugeki to try it out."

A cheeky grin was shot on his way. "Am I that obvious?"

"Idiot." Tsuna jabbed that Soma only laughed at.

"Tsuna-kun!" He looked back to Tadokoro who was walking towards them. "You were really loud awhile ago."

"I was cheering." He shrugged and offered his hand. "Give me five for helping Soma and being with him until the end."

The bluenette giggled and lightly slapped her hand on his.

"Oi oi. Why am I not included in there?" Soma demanded with fists on his hips.

Tsuna raised his hands. The two did the same and with happy smiles, they gave high fives to each other.

Reborn took Leon from his spot when his partner turned to a phone and vibrated. A brow shot up in question when he saw a message from his runaway student. It was a picture when he opened it. His head inclined when he noticed the high facilities and the name 'Soma Yukihira' on the four monitors.

The hitman rocked his head for possible reasons why his student would send such a picture. Maybe to tell them who he's with and where he is? That he's doing fine? Maybe. It even looks like on impulse since this Soma Yukihira won something. Reborn can't help himself from humming in thoughts.

"Reborn-kun?" He looked up to see Nana smiling at him, her own phone in hand. "You received it too?"

He nodded. "Soma Yukihira?"

"His friend. A redhead. He was the one who took care of him while out for the entire stay." The matriarch answered before showing him a picture of a redhead smiling with a peace sign. "I haven't talked to him, but I think he's a good kid."

Reborn nodded, thinking how the lady never said any name for the case of secrecy. Huh. Sawada family is growing nicely except for the two idiots. "You reply to him, Mama. He'll be happy if you congratulate his friend."

"Okay." The lady cheered, already tapping her phone to reply.

Reborn walked away with a new thought. He mused how fond Tsuna is to redheads. Even Enma is a redhead. He decided to go on out and search for the heir. Who knows. Ieyasu might've died with all the assassins lurking around, and Tsuna can be the Decimo again.

He hopes though.

"Oh. Running again, Tsunayoshi-kun?"

Tsuna laid on the ground after his two hundredth sit-up, and looked at Isshiki who's standing at the threshold of the main entrance. He nodded. "Yes, Isshiki-sempai."

"It has become your routine in the past two weeks." The upperclassman said while leaning on the doorjamb. "Is there something wrong, Tsunayoshi-kun?" A hint of worry in his tone.

He went off the ground and patted himself off dirt. Thinking a little of why his fellow brunet is worrying. He didn't come off as a weird one, did he? "Nothing at all, Sempai. Just bringing back some routine I stopped for awhile."

A reluctance. "Soma-kun knows this?"

"I told him since day one." The brunet smiled a little before nodding at the path he needs to run. "I'll be going, sempai. Be back in an hour or so."

"Sure." The upperclassman smiled with a wave.

Tsuna started to run, going outside of the dorm's premises. He inhaled some fresh air that the morning can only give as his feet pounded on the concrete. He exhaled it slowly, trying to calm himself. Running in the morning nowadays for him is a form of relaxation that could calm his nerves. Reborn will be so proud of him if he hears about this.

Speaking of Reborn, he got a response from his mother about the picture he sent to them. Nana said congratulations to Soma (which he did convey, getting a bashful Yukihira in return) and told him that she told Reborn about his friend. He really didn't mind. He'd even like the hitman to see Soma personally. The redhead will probably believe him if Reborn does appear beside him.

He rounded a corner and waved at the usual staffs and teachers he sees early in the morning. They too waved at him with smiles. They became used to his presence in the streets. At some point, some staffs approached him to say ‘thank you’ because he can brighten up their days. He could only blush and say they're welcome while Soma teased him about it.

The last two weeks weren't that hectic. They have been studying more about service and things. It was a good thing Reborn made him some kind of a sponge. (He can still feel the burn of the bombs whenever he studies.) He absorbs his lessons like he has been studying there for the past years. He's more surprised that he can pass his classes with good scores. He's pretty tempted to take some shots of those scores and pass it to his tutor, but he waved it off. Reborn will know one way or another.

He didn't know how long he ran. When he got back to the dorm, Shun was half way on cutting his logs for smoking his food with his usual chainsaw. The teen looked up to him and nodded when he was about to passby. He gave a wave in response. He removed the zipper of his jacket as he entered the dorm house to get to the kitchen. He was incredibly thirsty like any other. But his stamina is getting stronger and he doesn't feel out of breath whenever he and Soma chase around. It's like he's getting into shape again, which is good.

"Good morning, Sawada." Fumio greeted with a smile. The dorm Maria put a big glass of water in the counter. "Drink up. You're drenched."

Tsuna drank the water up to its last drop before chuckling. "Sorry. I didn't know how long I've been out so I don't know how much I ran."

"You've been out for an hour and forty-five minutes. Your dorm mates are out in the field behind the dorm. They're going to harvest some vegetables." The old lady informed as she put some seasonings on the food she's cooking.

"Thanks for the water, Fumio-san." The brunet expressed as he put the glassware in the counter again. "I'll help them out. Soma will kick me if I don't show up."

"Go." Fumio snickered. "He has been asking about you."

Tsuna paled and went out to go for the fields. Just when he got there, Sakaki and Shun were walking towards the others too. He was greeted by Tadokoro who's wearing a farmer's clothes, complete with the straw hat, checkered shirt, and white apron. She looks so comfortable in them that he couldn't resist pointing it out. He evaded Soma's eyes while discreetly greeting Yuki and Sakaki.

"Why are you avoiding Yukihira?" Shun asked while helping him pull out a radish.

"Not necessarily avoiding. Just don't want him to scold me for being late again." Tsuna answered with a sheepish smile. "We agreed for one hour run because too much will tire me and will make me fall asleep in class."

"Well, you are the only one who runs in the morning among us." The auburn commented.

"It's really a routine I almost abandoned three months ago." He explained as he slowly pulled the radish out. "I can't get out of shape because my tutor will kill me."

"That should be instructor."

"Nope. Tutor." He smiled as Shun put the vegetable to the cart beside them. "He teaches me things my school teachers will never teach me and he keeps me alive. So, tutor."

"Tsunayoshi-kun!" Isshiki called with a sunny smile. "How was the jog?"

Tsuna didn't mind the fundoshi the upperclassman is wearing and answered brightly. It's already an everyday occurrence to him now even if he saw the latter this morning in his full clothes. "Same old."

"Tsuna!" A familiar voice rang out and Soma jogged towards him, bright and excited. "Since when did you come in?"

The brunet looked at Shun who huffed in amusement. The latter knew how bad of a liar he is. Tried and tested. (It was just one time. Really. He was asked by the others to lie about stealing some cookies from Fumio. But he couldn't because he fidgeted and looked away. In other words, Fumio gave him a karate chop on the head and scolded him for covering someone. He did take on the punishment for the others because he never said a name. They respected him for that in return.)

"Since an hour ago, Yukihira." The smoke chef lied for him while putting away the tools they used. "He has been with me before we came to help."

"Oh. Good good." The redhead praised with a beam. "You drank water?"

"Yup." Tsuna nodded. "Fumio-san can justify to that."

"Then have you tried their vegetables here? Isshiki-sempai cultivated most of them! He even-"

Tsuna let the redhead pull him around while saying things about the garden. He enjoyed Soma's childlike expression. The way those yellow eyes twinkle in wonder. He suddenly missed the kids. He badly wants to hear Lambo's obnoxious laughter, Ipin's scolding and Chinese gibbering, and Fuuta's ideas to placate the two.

After roaming around the garden, helping here and there, Tsuna slumped on the ground with an exhausted sigh. He can already feel the soft mattress of his bed on his back, the warmth of his blanket around him, and the bounce of his pillow. He could already close his eyes if his tummy didn't grumble in hunger and a shadow loomed over his head. He took a peek to see Shun standing over his head. He gave a small wave before closing his eyes again.

"Yukihira! Tsuna is going to sleep!" Shun shouted.

"Huh?! No way! He needs to eat first!" Tsuna felt a hand on his wrist, tugging him up. "Up, Tsuna!"

"'m tired." He mumbled.

"And my hips hurt!" Soma complained.

"I'm hungry!" Yuki exclaimed, joining them.

It caused Tsuna to laugh before he let himself up. "Alright, alright."

"Everyone." They looked at Tadokoro who was holding a wrapped lunchbox with a smile. "Lunch is here."

"Oh. You made it Tadokoro?" Soma asked, surprised.

Tsuna waved off Soma so the latter could crowd around the bluenette. He sat beside the redhead and took one of the rice balls that was offered to him by Yuki and ate. Feeling that he wants to lean on something, he adjusted his position and rested his back against Soma's back, head on the redhead's shoulder. He listened to the others dissect the flavor in Tadokoro's cooking, as if they're lulling him to sleep.

He looked back to Soma when the latter nudged him to take the cup of tea. He sipped some and sighed in relief. He felt a little energized. Good enough to go back to his room, take some clothes to wear after a bath, and sleep.

For some reasons too, he compared Tadokoro to a rain for giving him that kind of peace.

"You okay there, Sawada?" Sakaki questioned. She was answered by a soft grunt.

"He'll be fine." Yukihira assured, patting the brunet's head on his shoulder. "He's probably tired from his run. He usually goes straight to bed again."

"Aw. Poor Tsuna." Yuki coddled as she poked Tsuna's cheeks, but the latter didn't budge. "He's asleep already."

"He looks peaceful." Sakaki giggled. "And cute."

"You know, you pass on as brothers, Yukihira-kun." Tadokoro observed. "Almost like fraternal twins with the same personalities and vibes."

Soma's eyes brightened at the comment as he gazed at the brunet who's resting on him and surely muting all the noises he could hear. "Really? My neighbors say the same. I can't wait for my old man to meet Tsuna."

"He also likes your squids." Shun pointed out before sipping the tea in his cup.

"He does." Soma agrees while Tadokoro shuddered at the memory of eating such.

"Maybe we should go inside? Tsunayoshi-kun could use some rest. I think he really needs it." Isshiki suggested.

"I'll wake him up." The redhead said as he shakes Tsuna awake. "Tsuna? Wake up. We're going in."

"... In?"

"Yup. Bed yeah?"

"... Bed."

"Up."

Shun helped him make the brunet stand. Both of them slung Tsuna's arms around their shoulders. The two had fun listening to Tsuna's mumblings, that were composed of 'guns', 'sadist', 'homework', and 'tutor'. They put him to bed after Shun fished the key of room twenty-seven from the brunet's pocket.

Soma was the last one to leave the room, although a little worried. When he tucked Tsuna to bed, he noticed the bags under his friend's eyes. It's like the brunet hadn't have any proper sleep at all. Shrugging it off as he plans a sleepover, he walked to the dining room where the others were gathering.

'Friendship and Rapport Training Lodging.' says the book that he was holding. Tsuna put the guidebook to the side after he finished reading it and looked upward to the ceiling. He wonders if he will get eliminated at the very first day.

His dorm mates have explained to him what it was while they ate dinner. This training lodging is the first hurdle the first-years have to pass to stay in Tootsuki. According to Sakaki, it contains rigorous cooking trials every day in a boarding house in the middle of the mountains. Those who can't get a passing mark will be expelled immediately. To Yuki, it's a cruel elimination training lodging because the batch will always get reduced to half of their numbers or less after the whole week. With all honesty, the information didn't help his anxiety.

Shun probably had seen his subtle reaction because the auburn pulled him aside and told him that as long as he could pass, it's okay—he could stay. Isshiki did the same, assuring him. He even pointed out how different he and Soma was. They said Yukihira was so optimistic that he said they’d just have to be on the passing side. He could only laugh at that.

It's not that he fears the challenges. Heck, they're just going to cook while serving people. He could use the training he did in Takesushi and Yukihira diner to practice. He could cook, and he believes in his abilities as a 'chef' because he was taught by the greatest hitman to be one. The only problem is the security. There are a lot of possible scenarios that might happen in the middle of the mountains.

Who knows what will happen if assassins and hitmen suddenly get a hold of his newest location? Behind the walls of Tootsuki, he's safe. In the mountains with no visible walls? He's in danger. More like he's the walking danger for the whole ninety-second generation.

Tsuna sighed as he dropped himself on the bed, taking his pillow to hug. He needs to ready his bag too. Maybe a duffel bag is enough. No white shirts, though. He needs to cover up his scars here and there. He can't even afford Soma to look at them, what more if the whole dorm gets to see it.

He perked up when he heard a series of knocks on his door. He went out of bed for the door. Removing the lock, he opened it to see a Soma holding his pillow and looked so determined about something. Tsuna didn't ask the redhead what's wrong and opened the door wider.

"No futon, Soma." He informed as he sat on the bed.

"We could share the bed." The redhead replied with a shrug as he locked the door and walked nearer. "You should be sleeping already."

He jammed a thumb on the book beside him. "Made me worried."

"What are you worried about that?" The redhead scoffed. He sat beside the brunet and took the book. "Shun already told you to be one of the halves that will pass. Isshiki-sempai and Fumio-san have given us their wishes. You don't want to disappoint them, do you?"

"No." Then Tsuna relented. "I'll do my best."

"We could buy cards!" Yukihira mused, already thinking of having fun. "And some board games. They give us allowance for it, right?"

The brunet smiled at how enthusiastic the other is. "Sure sure. What's more to bring?"

"We could list them off here." Soma said while pointing on the cover of the book.

"Oh." He drawled and laughed as he got the gist. Going over his side-table, he pulled a drawer and took two colored pens. "I'll do the dog."

"I get the mascot." The redhead cackled as he received a colored pen and started to doodle on the book. "Have you been sleeping alright?"

Tsuna blinked as he halted on writing things above the picture of the dog. His brown eyes glanced at his friend as he continued. "No."

"For a month?"

"Sleeping patterns are hard to change, Soma. I've been sleeping every two in the morning."

"And waking up at four thirty to start exercising." The redhead mumbled. "You won't mind if we alternate overnight places, right? We should change that sleeping pattern of yours."

"No." He replied, smiling a little as he checked all the things he wrote. "I'll be grateful."

"When you were at home, was your sleeping pattern like that too?"

He shook his head. "It must be the environment. I don't really feel safe in big places."

"And here I thought you adjusted accordingly." The redhead pouted as he drew a speech bubble directed to the mascot. "You helped me adjust to everyone while you were having a hard time doing it too."

"Sorry, Soma."

"After this, we sleep."

Tsuna chuckled. "Then I'll draw slower."

"You will not."

"Hmm."

That night, Tsuna snuggled on Soma's side. And admittedly, he had a good night sleep.

Chapter Text

Chapter Eight

Tsuna closed his notebook with a sigh and pocketed his mechanical pen as he stood up. As the students pour out of the rooms with him, he raised his hands to the air and stretched like a cat. The class was boring. Good thing his next one has a pack of good entertainment.

"Tsuna-kun?"

He looked back to see Erina Nakiri staring at him. He must have passed her without thinking. Well, it's his first time seeing her again after the Don RS Shokugeki. The last time they talked was in the ceremony, which was two months ago. It must have been hard for her, huh? Being an Elite Ten member with a busy schedule other than her own classes to attend.

"Nakiri-san. Good morning." He greeted.

"Good morning. How's your classes?" She asked with a small smile.

"It's good." He answered politely. "How are you and Sir Senzaemon?"

She blushed a little, surprised with the question. "I-I'm fine. Ojii-sama has workloads but he's faring well."

"Oh. Good to hear." He nodded before bowing a little. "I shall get going, Nakiri-san."

"A-Are you angry?" He stared at her nervous squirming. "I know I've been hard on Yukihira."

"I'm not." He responded. "I admit I was a little annoyed since you wanted to kick him out, but knowing Soma's personality outside our little circle, he can be a good test of patience. I just want you to take it easy on him. He is still a student of Tootsuki with fine culinary skills, Nakiri-san."

"I-I will try." The lady nodded, flushing still.

Tsuna pursed his lips before smiling to the lady, letting go some of his sky flames to calm her. She did. "See you in the training camp, then?"

"Yes." Nakiri replied with a smile of her own. "And please call me Erina. I don't want you to get confused."

"Sure, Erina-chan?"

A flush. "Thank you."

Tsuna beamed before waving goodbye.

He continued on with his day, before meeting Soma in their last class together. It was one of the three classes he had with the redhead. When they got back to the dorms, Soma reminded him to pack his things for the trip. He almost groaned. He didn't want to go. But like Kyouya Hibari, Soma was a force of nature himself and made him pack ‘willingly’.

Shun was laughing at him when the former passed by his open door; surely enjoying his and the redhead's antics. Who wouldn't when either one of them forces the other to do something almost willingly. (He once forced Soma to run with him in the early morning. It was hilarious because a sleepy Soma is a clumsy Soma.)

The next morning, Tsuna did his usual routine with a short run so he could come back to the Polar Star for a last check-up on his things (his bag, luggage tag with his name written on it, the pills, contacts, gloves, headphones, and phone) and a bath. He wasn't feeling tired like the first two weeks he runs, so he was pretty much active on bantering with the redhead as they made their way out of the dorm.

"Tsunayoshi-kun." Isshiki-sempai called out from the threshold.

"Yes, Sempai?" He responded, hoisting the strap of his duffle bag higher on his right shoulder.

"Take care of them. Especially Soma." The upperclassman said, almost like a request.

Tsuna almost laughed. Even in the life he's walking now, he'll still be the responsible one who needs to look out for the others. Maybe it comes with the previous job description? "Sure thing, Sempai."

"Be careful and come back home safely!" The sempai bid with a smile.

"We will!" He bid back.

"Tsuna! We're going to leave you if you stay longer!" Soma shouted from afar.

"Will you?!" He shouted back as he ran to them, earning the redhead some tease from the others.

When they got to the gates, there were a lot of buses parked. It was pretty crowded too. He jerked in surprise when he felt a warm hand slid into his. He looked at Soma who grinned at him cheekily. He bumped his shoulder on Yukihira's but didn't take his hand away. It's a precaution. They want to be in the same bus.

After a few minutes of waiting, they were told that they were arranged by name. Tsuna's hand tightened around Soma who squeezed his in assurance as they waited. Both sighed in relief when they heard that they're on the same bus. They went on board and sat on a pair of empty seats. He let the redhead take the side with the window while he's on the aisle. He just has this feeling that he needs to take that side. He pulled out his phone and the accompanied headset as other students settled in. Putting on the buds, he clicked 'shuffle' on his music app. He was going to lean back when a hand reached for his other bud and took it out. Soma put it on his ear and took his phone.

"Eh. I didn't know you're in anime." The cook commented while checking his playlist.

"You recognize the song?" He queried, a little astonished.

"Yeah. Gundam, right? It was a good series." Then the redhead bobbed his head to the beat. "This is a great opening sound track."

"I know. It has that action vibes." He agrees, a little happy that someone can relate to his little addiction.

The next song slid in.

"Ah. Your lie in April." Soma guessed.

"Did you say Your lie in April?" The girl in front asked them, twisting in her seat to look at them. There's a glim of interest and happy relate in her eyes. "It was one of the saddest anime I ever watched!"

"Yeah! I really thought she was going to live! Then bam! She died! Do you know how painful that was?" Soma dramatically leaned his head against the window with dejected look and aura. "I even had a crush on her. Why?"

"Little busters was as sad as it is." Tsuna chirped.

"Oh no." The guy from the other side of the aisle shook his head, pain written all over his face. "Don't remind me of how painful it is for a group to split up."

"Like that one time-"

The students in the bus groaned, cutting him off. It made him chuckle.

"Oh. Naruto!" Soma snapped his fingers in remembrance when they started to hear the opening instruments of Blue Bird.

Tsuna laughed and let their bus-mates talk about anime with Soma as the vehicle drove away from the school premises. He chirps here 'n there to remove some tensions and give a new subject to talk about. It was fun. At least in his presence, the students' anger on Soma gets forgotten. Some of the boys even sang along with the redhead on most songs, forming a little band while the girls acted like fans and hummed with them. It was really fun.

It was a long ride and the talks were still in there. His playlist isn't even over yet when they got to their destination. Their peers patted their backs and greeted them ‘goodbye’ when they passed to get inside the hotel. The two only smiled back in return (Soma sometimes greets back).

"Sawada! Yukihira!" Sakaki shouted for them with Yuki waving her hands at them.

Tsuna laughed when Soma took his hand again before they ran for the group. He grinned at Shun who smiled a little. Another Kyouya Hibari too.

"How was your trip?" Shun questioned, sliding next to him as Soma talked to the girls.

"It was eventful." He answered before waving at a group of boys who shouted his name to get his attention. "Had a good time remembering anime shows."

"You're into that?" Shun blinked through his bangs. Tsuna got tempted of telling him about his dame days, but he backed down. No one needs to know that. "You don't give the impression of such."

"It's probably the face." The brunet joked, earning a snicker from the auburn.

"As expected from a rich school." Both looked at Soma who said that with an exasperated expression. "They even have a great hotel like this one."

That was the time Tsuna looked at the building Soma was pertaining. He blinked and marveled the huge establishment. It is grand, and looked so maintained that it could almost hurt his eyes. Damn. If it was a brand of weirdness, he won't bat an eyelash; but this kind of grand? The only time he saw such was when he visited Nono in his hotel.

"Tootsuki is the parent organization of all hotels and Ryokan of this area." Shun informed causing Tsuna to make an 'o' with his mouth.

"I see... Nothing I hear surprises me anymore." Soma nodded sagely.

Tsuna sweatdropped. "Of course. They even have exaggerated buildings in the academy."

"True true." The redhead agrees.

"Dozens of inns are managed by a brand named Tootsuki resorts. There are a lot of cases of academy graduates finding employment on the cooking department of these resorts. Only on this season they don't accept guests and they're used for training camps." Shun elaborated further.

Tsuna raised a hand to gain the auburn's attention. "In normal days, how much does a room cost?"

"One-night costs eighty thousand yen." Shun answered nonchalantly.

Tsuna's mouth went gape as Soma and Yuki shouted their reactions. "Damn."

"Eh! We're really staying here?! I'm getting excited!" Yuki exclaimed as they got in.

Tsuna removed his bag when a bellhop took their bags. He said a small 'thank you' that he knew the man appreciated with the way he beamed.

"Only if we can survive today's assignment." Shun remarked to Yuki's excitement, causing the latter to deflate and Tsuna to laugh.

"You whisper things that can ruin the mood, Ibusaki." The orange haired girl scolded the auburn who looked at her with deadpan.

"I'm a realist." Shun countered that agitated Yuki more. "Look, we have to gather soon."

Tsuna was about to follow the two when he remembered that Soma, Tadokoro, and Sakaki weren't with them. He was about to turn around when he felt his intuition telling him to dodge. He stepped to the right. Soma came flying, hugging himself in mid-air on his left. The redhead staggered forward before stopping and looked back to him.

They stared at each other.

When the door opened, Tsuna went for a run just in tune to Soma, who chased after him. He dodged around then went behind Shun who sighed. The brunet laughed when the redhead tried to get him from both sides, almost hugging the auburn. What he didn't expect was when Ibusaki ducked just as Yukihira tried to reach him again. The girls laughed when he shot a betrayed look to Shun while Soma tapped him on the shoulder.

Pouting a little, he let Soma gain some distance before he started to run. Soma went comical and tried to run faster but he got him. He laughed breathlessly, slinging an arm around the redhead and gave the top of his head a noogie with his knuckles.

"You're it!" Tsuna grinned with triumph.

"Okay okay!" Soma laughed and looked up to him. "I'm sorry. You were so defenseless that I wanted to startle you."

"Uh-huh. And it worked perfectly."

"Sheesh-! Oh. Hey! It's Nikumi!"

The pertained 'Nikumi' turned around to see who called her. Tsuna recognized the lady as Ikumi Mito. He let go of Soma so the latter can greet the girl, who blushed at the attention and embarrassment. But Soma didn't really let him go. The redhead took his hand and tugged him forward to present him to the lady.

"Tsuna, this is Nikumi. She's the one who I cooked against on the Shokugeki." Soma introduced with a beam. "Nikumi, this is Tsunayoshi Sawada. Tsuna is okay for him."

"Nice to meet you." The brunet greeted with a small bow. "I watched your showdown. You really did good, Mito-san."

"A-Ah." The lady flushed. "Thank you."

"No, Tsuna." Soma shook his shoulders. "It's Nikumi."

"Yukihira! Why are you calling her by her nickname?!" Yuki questioned from their left.

"Maybe he had her consent?" Tsuna suggested as he looked at the redhead. "Right?"

"I had her consent, right Nikumi?" The redhead said as he looked at Mito with a beam.

Mito blushed. "Like hell you did!"

Tsuna was about to reprimand Soma for taking someone for granted when he noticed the stares and murmurs directed to them. The urge to protect tugged him when he heard his name and Soma's being uttered as if they're doing something wrong. He slung an arm around the redhead's shoulder and pulled him closer whilst looking around.

He didn't see the way those yellow eyes looked up to him in shock and appreciation. The way those green eyes and blue ones looked at him in respect and admiration for protecting Soma. Nor how his eyes went amber in threat and protection.

"Be careful for me, Soma." He whispered and looked at his friend. "You're the only one left for me."

"I will." Soma whispered in return.

"Promise?" He queried and raised his right-hand pinky.

The redhead snickered. "So childish. But yeah. I promise." And he looped his own pinky to the brunet's.

They didn't see the way Yuki and Mito smiled.

"Good morning, ladies and gentlemen." They all eyed the stage where Chapelle-sensei stood.

Tsuna let go of Soma, but the latter, like awhile ago, slid his hand to his. The redhead squeezed his hand reassuringly that he answered back with a soft squeeze.

"Pay attention to the stage. I'm going to explain the outline of the training camp." Chapelle-sensei said through the mic while giving them stern gazes.

The students stopped talking among themselves and payed attention.

"Now, ‘The Friendship and Rapport Training Lodging’ is scheduled to be five nights and six days. Everyday, you'll be given an assignment related to cooking. The contents of these assignments vary every year. On the first day, the nine hundred eighty-one students will be separated into twenty groups. After this explanation is done, each of you must go to the place you're appointed to." The teacher paused as he surveyed them before continuing. "If the lecturers' evaluations go below a certain line, that student is disqualified. Those students will be forcibly sent home on board of the buses that go to the academy and they will be expelled.” Chapelle-sensei scanned them for a second. “About the judging, we invited guest lecturers." That announcement elated some murmurs. "As busy as they are, they gathered here just for today." Another survey from the teacher. "They're the Tootsuki Academy alumni."

Tsuna and Soma glanced at each other when the students went murmuring about how great the Academy's alumni. The brunet shrugged, accepting that fact as he remembered what Senzaemon Nakiri said about plucking out the gems among normal people; that there's only one percent who will reach the top and be exemplar on their chosen cuisine.

The door opened on the right side of the stage. Chefs ranging from boys to girls, ages and nationalities came walking in. Tsuna shuffled closer to Soma who squeezed his hand again.

"You're incredibly nervous today, Tsuna." Soma hummed.

"Can't help it. One wrong move, we're expelled." He murmured back.

"Hmm." They looked back to the stage and to the male chef with magenta hair and black glasses. "You on the tenth line starting from the front."

Tsuna did a quick math and landed on Soma.

"The boy with a scar on the eyebrow." The chef said. Soma, the ever innocent and naive one, pointed at himself causing Tsuna to tense up. "Ah sorry sorry. The one next to him." The brunet relaxed when those brown eyes shifted to the boy next to Soma. "That's right, you."

A bout of silence as the kid pointed at himself.

"You're expelled." The chef said with no pretense. "You may go home. Your hairdresser has a citrus smell. That may overshadow the food's aroma." He elaborated and raised a finger with a kind smile on his lips as if he was teaching. "Being stylish is a must. If the person who makes the food is out of style, the food won't have any sensuality. But starting next time, you should pick a free-scented hair liquid."

"Wa-Wait! Please! What expelled? Just because of this-"

The man glared down at the student with so much ferocity. "You can lose a client just because of that. Do you want to shut down my shop?"

The student froze in his place for a sec before he slumped down in defeat.

The chef turned around. "Good job, student."

Tsuna took a deep breath. That scared him. He thought it was Soma the chef was pertaining. He's not being clingy with all honesty. But what he said to Soma was true. The redhead is all he has right now. He doesn't have anyone to be with. He's all alone. And being expelled will not get him anywhere. Once he's out there, he'll be a target of assassins. He also knows the danger of pulling Soma in his life. But for once, before he can stand up on his own again, he wants to grasp to that only hope he can have. To the only person he can be with before he gets dragged to his life again.

So, if Soma gets expelled, he'll quit. That's that.

Focusing on what's in front of him, he listened to the whispers of his peers. He gathered that the alumnus who expelled the student awhile ago is known as Kojirou Shinomiya, a French restaurant owner with the name 'Shino's'. There are more chefs too that excels in different cuisine, like Fuyumi Mizuhara that has an Italian restaurant. He laughed when Tadokoro got caught up with two different chefs, Gotouda Donato and Hinako Inui. He does agree to their opinions; Tadokoro is a definition of simplicity.

"Welcome to Tootsuki Resort." A bald man in suits said through the mic. Tsuna could practically feel the authority and charisma of the man as the latter smirked at them challengingly. "All the alumni that gathered today are all chefs of their own shops. For the six days of this training camp, they will be treating you as if you are employees of their shop. Do you understand what this means?"

Tsuna cringed at the next sentence.

"People whose work can't satisfy us are fired." With an emphasis of beheading with his thumb crossing his neck horizontally. "As you could see, you may be forced to leave immediately depending on the lecturers' discretion. I wish you the best of luck. Now," He moved his head to the door. "Start moving!"

The students rushed.

"See you!" Yuki shouted as she moved.

"Yeah!" Shun agreed as he walked for the lecturer who called his name.

"Yeah! We're having a card tournament at Marui's room tonight!" Soma announced, still holding his hand.

Tsuna snickered when Marui complained. "We don't have to gather in my room in times like this, right?!"

"See you, Marui-san." He bid as the studious one among them went off with a pout. He, then, raised a brow on the redhead beside him. "Are you going to let go of my hand anytime soon, Soma?"

"Hmm." The redhead hummed, tightening his hold a little before slowly letting his hand go. "Just taking some of your luck and happiness."

"What did you give me in return then?" He asked, eyeing Fuyumi Mizuhara who called his name. Lucky.

"My unwavering strength and enthusiasm!" The redhead answered with cheer.

Tsuna grinned. "Okay then. Survive?"

"Survive."

Then they high-fived before parting ways.

Chapter Text

Chapter Nine

"Ciao." Fuyumi Mizuhara greeted in an impassive way.

Tsuna almost sweatdropped. The kind of greeting reminded him of Flan who's under Mukuro's teaching the last time he checked. "Ciao, Mizuhara-sempai."

A nod. "For my assignment, I want you to pair up like in your class with Chapelle-sensei and go to your chosen kitchen."

Tsuna remained standing at his spot right beside a cart. His intuition has already told him that he's the odd one out.

"You don't have any pair?" The alumna queried, brows lifting when she noticed he's the only one not moving to find anyone.

"I'm the odd number, Sempai." He replied before waving off his hand with a small smile. "No worries. I can handle myself."

"If you're sure." The lady relented and cleared her throat to gain their attention again. "My assignment is to create an Italian dish with the ingredients you can see in the mountain."

Tsuna's eyes brightened up.

The lady leaned on the wall beside her. "Do not go further away since there are fences, securing the vicinity. If you go beyond the fences, you're disqualified. This room has seasonings, cooking oils and cooking wares in them. You can also use the things in the tool house. You only have two hours to give me the dish. Go."

Tsuna thought of what he could do as the others started to leave the room. Since he's the only one moving for himself, he started to think of simple Italian dish he can recreate. There's always cheese in them and sauce. Instead of going out immediately, he checked the shelves for the seasoning he needs.

His face lit up when he saw seven of the ingredients he needed. He gathered them all and put them on his kitchen. Checking his mental note, he went out to search for the other variables. He went for the tool house first to get a small basket and went on. He passed by a lot of his fellow groupmates on his way to hunting. Some were even bickering; most were working well together. He even got to help one of them to pick apples from the tree. He was picking basil when he got across Tadokoro. He gestured her to be quiet with a wink when she saw him. She pursed her lips to hide her smile and nodded with a wink of her own. He was humming on his way back to the room, thinking about Soma and Tadokoro who are surely a pair with the same assignment. His intuition hummed in delight.

When he got back, he only has an hour and half to spare. He thought it was enough since he only needs an hour and fifteen minutes to do the dish. He removed his coat, took out the apron he bought months ago and put it on, folded his sleeves then washed his hands before he started to cook. He hummed while he does his thing. It was a usual routine for him to sing a song whenever Soma isn't there to bug him or amaze him. His dormmates he has classes with have pointed this out and told him that it helps them feel relaxed in the kitchen with him. He speculated that some of his sky flames go with the tune that's why they feel calm. He can put harmony in the atmosphere without thinking about it.

He eyed the others who were slowly getting into their own rhythm. They were working together in a calm way unlike awhile ago. The room went into a peaceful one. While waiting for his dish to finish, he watched those who bravely approached their lecturer. Some passed. There are ones who got asked to redo their dishes. He encouraged them to do so while he cleaned his station. They were energized and did their best.

When his was finished cooking, he took it out from the oven and put it in a plate. He decorated it a little before carrying it to Mizuhara who had approved another pair.

"N-Na, Sawada-san." He perked up to see the pair he helped pick some apples. They were the latest one to have an 'okay'. One of them smiled shyly before both of them bowed. "Thank you for your help."

"No problem." He responded with a smile. "Good job, you two."

The two beamed at him before they went to their stations.

"You even had time to help your peers." Mizuhara commented as he put the plate on the table. "And this is?"

"Baked Eggplant Parm." He proudly proclaimed. "Instead of doing the classic one, I baked the eggplants. Please dig in."

"Huh." The chef nodded before taking her cutlery. "Itadakimasu."

Tsuna waited for any reaction. He suppressed a smile when he got the right reaction. As absurd as it sounds, there is a phenomenon among men that is called food-gasm. It's a kind of reaction human does when they tasted something delicious, equally giving them orgasm.

When Isshiki explained this to him, he blushed red. He's not that ‘civilized’ even if he had run around Namimori in just his boxers. He was even asked by others if he experienced such a thing. He could only shake his head. It's not because he doesn't taste anything delicious. Every food for him is delicious.

"This is good. Great even." Mizuhara said in Italian, certainly amazed. "You passed, Sawada."

"Thank you." He answered in the same language.

He was graced with a smile. "You'll go far."

He could only smile in response before he went back to his station.

Fuyumi eyed the food the brunet served. There's a sense of warmth in it with a touch of fondness and longing. The pertained brunet is eating his own share of his food, offering some on those who have passed and silently cheering for those who were finishing their dishes. The same teen who didn't go out of the room hurriedly and planned his steps with caution and calculation.

Taking out her phone, she took a quick picture of the scene in front of her then the food that was served. She sent it to the other alumni then went back to eating the Baked Eggplant Parm.

Hinako Inui: What is that? It looks delicious.

Kojirou Shinomiya: What's with the class pic?

Gin Doujima: How's the test?

Fuyumi Mizuhara: This group is going to pass as a whole.

Gotouda Donato: What do you mean?

"Mizuhara-sempai." She put her phone down and looked up to the students that lined up in front of her. "May we?" A polite gesture.

She nodded to the table, setting aside the unfinished parm.

Like she said, the group passed as a whole. She eyed the brunet who was flustered with all the 'thank you's he gets. It's a good thing she sent those pictures. Hinako is a good reminder for the things she will write in the evaluation. Not that she'll forget this good impression.

When Tsuna got off the bus, he stared at Marui's sluggish body trying to reach the entrance of the hotel. His groupmates patted his back on their way out of the bus. He smiled as a parting greeting before he approached the bespectacled teen and helped him up by putting a hand on one of those thin arms. He took the other by surprise. He smiled and offered two of the candies the girls in his group handed to him awhile ago. (His heart clenched at the thought of when was the last time Lambo offered him a candy. Few months ago, he has candies packed on his pockets just to give it to the cow-printed child who can only be calmed with grape candies.) Marui took them and opened the tasty looking one.

"How was your assignment?" Tsuna asked while they walk in.

"It was tiring." The megane answered with a dejected sigh.

"Marui, Tsuna." They looked at Shun who called them. "Good. You survived."

Tsuna bit back a casual answer since he knew others had it hard. His groupmates barely passed even, with the time constricted. "It was pretty hard."

"Yeah. I had to run around the mountains to find the things I needed." Marui almost cried, almost keeling in the process if Tsuna didn't have his arm.

"We all got the same assignment, Marui-san." He assured as he put two more candies in the other's hand. "Get more candy to energize a little."

"Thank you, Sawada." Marui expressed gratefully.

The brunet tossed a candy to the auburn who was walking beside them.

"Were you asked to get a pair too?" Shun queried as he put the candy in his mouth.

Tsuna nodded. "Yup."

"I hate my pair." Marui groaned as they stood outside the grand hall where the other students were assembled. "He won't even try anything. He kept on panicking and rejects every idea I suggests with ingredients we could find in the wild. He's impossible."

"We had it hard, eh." He chuckled nervously, not relating a bit since he has no pair.

"Tsuna! Marui! Ibusaki!" Sakaki and Yuki shouted as they came in the entrance.

"Excuse me for a minute." Shun bid. "I'll call some of our dormmates to check on them."

"Sure." Marui nodded weakly.

"You survived!" Yuki cheered on them. "It was really fortunate that Ryouko-chan and I were in the same group. What was your assignment?"

Tsuna let them talk about their experience about the first challenge. He looked around, trying to look out for a redhead and a bluenette. His eyes didn't disappoint when the two went in. He was about to smile when he noticed that Soma's yellow eyes weren't really ‘seeing’—distracted and more prominent that they're almost like fire. He clammed his lips and waited for Yuki to acknowledge them.

While the girls greeted each other, he excused himself to Marui and went beside his friend. Soma looked over to him and gave a weak smile.

"Survived?" He asked softly.

A nod. "Survived." Then a sigh. "I realized that there are chefs within my age that has more skills and have restaurants they cook at too. That I'm not the only one who had faced clients at a young age. It feels surreal.” Then he smiled brightly, almost relieved, at the brunet. “I'm glad I came to this academy."

Tsuna nodded, feeling the same thing too although with a different reason. "Yeah. Now, you have someone who can relate to your experiences."

"It's not like you don't." The redhead teased.

A chuckle. 'If you only know, Soma.'

"Phew. But the assignment was truly troublesome." Sakaki breathed with a weary smile.

"I'm dead tired. I can't move." Tadokoro seconded, already leaning on the two girls.

"Here." Tsuna tossed a candy to her way. The bluenette caught it perfectly and stared at the candy. "An energizer."

"Thank you, Tsuna-kun." A soft smile.

"What are you saying?!" Yuki exclaimed with an excited grin. It made Tsuna sweat-drop. "It's time for rewards, young ladies!"

Tsuna tried to placate the orange haired, but she was really into her thoughts. He bit back a schadenfreude snicker when Chef Hitoshi Sekimori shot down her idea and instructed them to make fifty beef steak meal individually for the bodybuilder club, football club and wrestling club of another school that were having their own training camp.

He was already removing his coat and folding his sleeves when Hitoshi told them that they needed to finish those fifty meals within sixty minutes. He also made a mental note to make his own share when the alumnus shot Yuki's idea of served dinner meals by saying they make their own meals every day.

"It's your turn to make our meal, Tsuna." Soma said as he passed by.

Tsuna winced, continuing his work. "I thought it doesn't apply in here?"

"Are you shirking your duty, Sawada?" The redhead asked in a teasing a manner.

"No way." The brunet scowled. "When are we going to eat again?"

"After bath." The other answered as they started to cook.

"I thought there's a card tournament in Marui-san's room?" He reminded.

"Yeah. Before that."

"Okay." Then Tsuna paused after he gave his first tray. "What menu?"

"I don't want beef steak." The redhead wrinkled his nose as he served five.

"You're cooking one already, of course you wouldn't want one." He deadpanned before smiling at the next three persons he was going to serve. "Eat well."

"Yes!" The three answered in unison as they go.

"Let's go for fish?" He asked as he cooked.

"Sure sure!" The redhead responded positively.

Tsuna hummed. "Dessert then?"

He didn't really need a verbal response when he heard the redhead whooping in happiness. It's not that Soma doesn't want to cook his own. It's a kind of duty between them now since the day he lived in Yukihira diner. It started when Soma was busy preparing the ingredients he needed for the diner when Tsuna took the initiative to make them breakfast so the redhead can focus. Soma repaid him by doing the lunch. Then there.

Tsuna was done two seconds later after Soma. Instead of going for the bath, he opted for a shower in his room. He was in the provided yukata when he went out of his room to go for the kitchen again. He used the stairs to at least get a small exercise. When he was on the last step, he noticed a group of alumni coming to his way. He gave a small bow and was about to turn when he heard his name being called.

"Sawada." He looked back to Mizuhara who was giving him a small smile. "Good. You survived Hitoshi."

"It wasn't that hard." He bashfully responded. "Thank you for finishing my Baked Eggplant Parm, Mizuhara-sempai."

"If you survive this training camp, tell me. I'll take you on as my employee in my restaurant." The alumna offered, gaining the attention of the others.

"If circumstances grant me the opportunity, I will, Mizuhara-sempai." He replied politely before bowing. "Please excuse me."

"Bye Sawada."

He waved cheerfully and went on.

"What was that?" Hinako questioned, confused and amazed. "You never do that."

"He's interesting." Fuyumi shrugged. "He made his group pass by just supporting them on the sidelines. They were pretty attached to him at the end."

"Huh." She gazed at Kojirou who scoffed. "They won't last."

"Maybe." She hummed, mentally checking those students she saw Hitoshi marking as passed with his little test. "But last time I checked, they all passed Hitoshi's test."

"I can't wait to test them then." The French chef mused.

She gave a no-comment shrug. "Suit yourself."

"What's his name again, Fuyumi-chan?" Hinako asked with a curious lilt.

"Tsunayoshi—Tsunayoshi Sawada." She answered, ingraining the name to her mind for future recommendation.

Orange eyes blinked to life when his intuition tinkered. Reaching for his mitt and pills under his pillow, he dodged just as the alien in his head shouted at him to do so. He looked back to see a short sword pierced on his pillow; just where his head should've been. Cursing a little, he rolled out of the bed as silenced bullets tried to chase him.

He took refuge under the bed, rolling for the other side while putting on his mitts. He kicked the unaware assassin's leg and rolled out of the bed within that small moment of distraction. He popped a pill on his mouth and dragged the assassin out of the room using the window. He flew for the forest, then dropped the man to the trees. Using his gloves as flame boosters, he dodged the bullets flying to his way in all different directions. When some of them ran out of bullets and tried to change magazines, he went to do a counterattack.

He has never been thankful for doing his usual run and having his intuition. Within minutes, he left men sprawled on the forest ground. He walked out of the forest, unscathed but dirty. He wrinkled his nose and was removing his mitt when he saw one of the alumni chefs staring at him.

"What happened to you?" The chef asked.

"Vongola Decimo-"

Tsuna ran for the chef and tackled him to the ground. A bullet went flying towards them and embodied itself on the tree. Forced by the circumstances, he went hyper-dying mode and opened his palm to the mafioso. He forced a hard flame from it in second, shooting it to the assassin.

"Don't put civilian in this, idiot." He muttered as he went off the chef and stood up. "Are you alright, Sempai?"

"I'm okay." The sempai responded as he took Tsuna's offered hand.

"I'm sorry." He apologized as he hardened his muscles and locked his feet on the ground to help the man up. "They don't really know when to advance or stop."

"What's happening?" The chef demanded immediately.

Tsuna sighed, exhaustion falling on him. "There are unconscious people inside the forest, Sir. I am Tsunayoshi Sawada, brother of Vongola Decimo, and they're after my life."

Chapter Text

Chapter Ten

"Senzaemon-dono had explained everything to me." Gin Doujima said in a reassuring tone.

Tsuna sighed in relief, tensions on his shoulders slipping away like they were never there before. He really thought he was in trouble. Good thing he remembered that Senzaemon Nakiri is the director of the school and knows his identity outside the walls of the academy. His intuition is getting more helpful in the long run for scenarios like this.

After he said his name and title (he doesn't know if he should be happy or hurt for being regressed to Vongola Decimo's brother), he suggested to Doujima to call Senzaemon for further explanation. Before the chef did, he ordered the security to take care of the unconscious bodies in the forest. The enforcers looked at him with curiosity and morbid confusion when they reported that the bodies were indeed unconscious, for more or less than a day, and are detained. They must be in disbelief that a teen like him can take down twenty to thirty men armored with guns and knives.

Right now, they're in the lounge, discussing what happened.

"I'm really sorry." Tsuna apologized with a small grimace. "I don't know how they were able to pinpoint my room, nor know I was already here within a day."

"It's alright." Doujima waved off. "We will strengthen the security further."

The brunet sighed as he ran a hand on his hair. "I don't think they will stop. Without my guardians and my tutor, they won't feel threatened enough to back down."

"Let's just think of how fortunate you are to be safe for now, Sawada." Doujima tried to console. "We cannot stop such circumstances if they happen, but we can do some precautions."

He nodded before eyeing the chef. "Are you okay, Doujima-sempai?" That struck a chord and froze the chef. "I know it was sudden and the shock hasn't left you, but you almost got nicked. I don't want this experience to affect your work."

"With all honesty, I feel troubled." The man chuckled mirthlessly. "It is my first time. But I have some dangerous experience in the kitchen too, like flying knives and exploding gases. You are the one that I must commend; to experience this at a young age and be accustomed to it already. You're incredible."

"It comes with the job description." Tsuna smiled warily. "I think I need a new room. My bed is... ransacked. Please refrain any maids from cleaning it. They'll be in for a bad surprise."

"Is there..."

A click. He hurriedly waved his hands to dismiss the thought. "N-No. Just a short sword and some bullet holes on the mattress."

"I'll tell the butlers. For the meantime, stay here and rest. You have a long day ahead of you."

He nodded. "Thank you, Doujima-sempai."

When the chef went out, Tsuna laid on the couch but didn't really rest. Adrenaline is still on his veins even if his intuition assured him that he can sleep. He closed his eyes and thought of what to do.

First on the list, tell Reborn what happened.

'From: xxx-xxx-xxx

Subject: (none)

Message: Got attacked in the middle of the night in our training camp. One civilian almost got hit. Twenty-five mafiosi and assassins. Still calling me Vongola Decimo.'

Reborn let Leon go immediately and reigned his rage from letting out. What the hell? He thought Vongola already announced to the world that Ieyasu is the Vongola Decimo? Why are they still chasing his student? Are those mafiosi stupid or just plain fucked? And why is he reporting this now? Why didn't he say so in the middle of the night? Leon will wake him up if he's the one texting. No. Tsuna should be saying his location so Reborn could come. He needs protection from those assassins. If those famiglie discover that he doesn't have his guardians, they'll come at him in all directions.

He can't help himself from hitting the wall with the side of his fist. He's the damn tutor. He should be protecting his student from harm—be there with him to assure him that no one will harm him.

Goddamn it.

He looked at Leon when the latter went for his hand again and turned into a phone. Firstly, he took a deep breath to calm himself since he cannot think straight if he let his emotions get into him. When he's good enough, he opened the new message and read its content.

'From: xxx-xxx-xxx

Subject: (none)

Message: Unscathed. No worries. Director knew who I am and put me under his protection. The hotel strengthened its security too. Just informing you.'

Reborn sighed. Good. His student is unharmed.

'To: xxx-xxx-xxx

Subject: Chaos

Message: Good job.'

Leon turned to his original form and stuck his tongue to the hitman's cheek. Reborn patted his partner's head and started to walk out of the alley he hid in as Leon went for his hat. He was nearing the house when Hibari landed in front of him. He tipped his hat to the teen but the prefect intercepted his walk.

It's obvious that the cloud guardian wants to know where his sky is. Even Mukuro and Chrome have visited him a lot of time, with Lambo's occasional question. But unlike the three teens, Lambo asks for the welfare of Tsuna. Reborn concluded that the child knew he can't go to where his nii-san is. It's an understanding a lightning guardian could do, under the job of protecting the family. And he's honestly proud about it. Because amidst the crisis, Lambo is growing as a good guardian for Tsuna.

The other three, on the other hand, have effectively synchronized with Ieyasu. Reborn knows why though. It is the fact that they think Tsuna gave up their friendship. It was more of Tsuna being unable to defend that kind of bond he wanted to have with Gokudera, Yamamoto, and Sasagawa, and letting Ieyasu do his will. And Reborn regrets not doing anything for that bond he forged among the four of them; much more of seeing his student suffer from that loss while the other three got saved by another sky who came to break them apart.

"What is it, Hibari?" He asked.

"Where is the Little Animal?" The usual question.

Reborn gave the skylark a leveled look. "Don't you trust your sky, Hibari?"

Silence.

"I also want to see my student. But he doesn't want to be found. Regardless, we know how Tsuna thinks. He loves his family. He values his friends. He will come home." 'Like what happened in the not-future.' was left unsaid. "And as his cloud guardian, you need to attend your duties. He trusts you to protect Namimori and the families he wants to protect."

A growl. "I am doing my duties." 'I trust the Little Animal.'

"Good." He nodded and continued his way inside the house. He was about to go in when he remembered something. "Hibari."

"Hn."

"Bite the herbivore to death."

A feral grin. "Okay, child."

Tsuna put the napkin down on the counter with a small sigh. He stared at his imitation of perfect miso soup. He is yet to serve it since he just finished doing it. A lot of his groupmates were asked to redo theirs again when they sought for approval. He smiled at them with quiet encouragement. He knew how hard it was to please someone with your cooking. It's very frustrating to the point that you want to give up trying to cook the dish.

It was good that Reborn can't be satisfied with mere work. If it wasn't for the hitman's strict teaching and perfectionist idealism, Tsuna won't learn how to make a traditional miso soup. Even if it is just a soup, it's still hard to perfect. He needs to figure out the right taste, and with Reborn's tongue? Yeah. He has to perfect it.

He eyed Hinako Inui who smiled at one of the girls in his group and nodded in approval. He took up the tray with a bowl of miso soup and approached the alumna after the others. With a patience nearly thinning from something (aided by his intuition that seems to be impatient today), he carefully put the bowl of miso soup on the table and waited for the lady to take it.

"Oh. From the very smell, you did a nice job." Inui nodded with a beaming smile before taking the bowl with both hands and took a sip.

Tsuna felt a small satisfaction when the alumna shuddered with a small moan.

"Very good, Sawada-kun. You gave justice to the flavor. It's been a while since I tasted a miso soup like this." Inui nodded.

"Thank you." He expressed before removing his apron. "May I go out, Sempai?" He asked as he laid a hand to the door.

"Oh sure. You deserve a break."

Tsuna smiled and went for his coat. He bid the others 'good luck's, 'you could do it' motivations, and 'goodbye's before slipping out. Then he trusted his intuition to guide him to Soma's direction.

His Soma radar is tingling. It's tingling when the other is in trouble or when he's not okay. The one time the radar rang was when the redhead tried to face-off some gangsters he saw outside the academy. He had to try placating the delinquents and bribe them with good food. (That Soma enthusiastically gave in.) The last time it went for a second was when a student almost stabbed the redhead out of spite. He got to hold the knife and threaten the student of filing an 'attempted murder' on him. (The kid left the academy because of too much fear and guilt.)

"Sawada?" He turned around to see Doujima in his suit, with Inui walking the same direction as him. He faced them and gave a small bow. "Where are you going?"

"To some friends." He answered with a meek smile.

"Then come with us on the way." Inui invited cheerfully. "We're heading to Shinomiya. Maybe we could part ways from there."

"Sure, Sempai." He replied and walked beside them.

"Have you had a good rest, Sawada?" Doujima queried, brows a little furrowed. "You were up by four-thirty."

Tsuna looked at Inui who strayed back a little, giving them some privacy. "It's a routine for me to run every day, except when it's raining, that's why I was up by then."

"With what happened last night, you should be dead tired, Sawada." The upperclassman commented, looking at him like he's not okay and one minute away to ordering him to sleep somewhere.

"I'm okay, Sempai. This is nothing to my past experience." He assured, remembering those times Reborn drags him out of the bed early in the morning (at four) even though he just hit the bed (at one in the morning), and drives him to training until he's dead on his feet again. If he recalls it right, it was during the ring conflict. "What about you?"

"I was able to rest well." The chef answered, a little too polite while stuffing a hand to his pants' pocket.

Tsuna can't help pursing his lips. He doesn't like the formality. "Please. Treat me like no other. I'm still a student of the academy and your underclassman."

Doujima smiled. "If so, how was your assignment?"

"He passed with flying colors!" Inui answered for him as they rounded a corner. The lady fell in steps with them. "I'm not surprised if Fuyumi wants you to her restaurant. With your miso soup, I also want you to work for me."

Tsuna blushed.

"Heh. I suddenly want to taste your cooking." Doujima commented, causing the brunet to panic.

"I-It's not that good, Sempai. I'm literally average in terms of cooking."

"But you're surviving the training camp." Inui said as they stop in front of a door. "It also seems like you're not having any hard time at all, unlike any other students."

"It's probably a coincidence." He answered nervously.

"There is no such thing as coincidence in cooking, Sawada." Doujima teased and opened the door.

"A Shokugeki against someone who isn't enrolled... It's not like there is no precedents, but for a Shokugeki, you need the approval of both parties, right? Sorry. I don't feel like accepting your challenge."

Tsuna stared at the scene inside the room. There goes Shinomiya facing a stone-faced Soma and a teary-eyed Tadokoro, as if it was just like any other day in the Academy where the two get into trouble.

He was about to sigh in relief when he realized what was going on. Why is Tadokoro on the verge of crying, and Soma seemingly ready to burst into seams?

"Not so fast." Doujima cut off to Shinomiya's decision, resting an arm on the doorjamb, with an indulging smirk. "It seems like something interesting is happening here, Shinomiya."

All heads turned to them, making Tsuna's spine go straight and steel.

"Doujima-san...!" Shinomiya voiced surprise.

"T-Tsuna?" Soma called, shocked too.

Tsuna murmured a small 'excuse me' to both upperclassmen he was with and bridged the distance between him and the two. "I'm not gonna ask what's happening right now, but are you two okay?"

"Yeah. Just..." Soma gritted his teeth.

The brunet ruffled the redhead's hair before facing the teary-eyed girl. "Are you okay, Tadokoro-san?"

"I'm alright." A weak answer.

He took the handkerchief from his pocket and give it to the bluenette. "It's okay. Everything is going to be alright, yeah?"

There was a drop of two tears on both eyes that got wiped away by the clothe immediately then a nod. "Yeah."

"Yukihira, Tadokoro." They looked back to Doujima who waved them to come. "Follow us to the office."

The two looked at him. He almost laughed. It reminded him of those times Gokudera and Takeshi ask him for silent permission. "Go."

"You too, Sawada." Inui said with a knowing and understanding smile.

Tsuna's hands got occupied with two different ones. The two took him by surprise. "A-Alright."

Hand in hand, they piled out of the room. They followed the three chefs silently. Pursing his lips, Tsuna gave off a little sky flames to relax his two companions. They did, but their hands were still tight on his. He didn't mind.

They were ushered in an office by the three upperclassmen. Probably Doujima's since he's the only one wearing a suit among them. But before they shuffled in too, he tugged the two to a stop.

"Tsuna-"

"Hey, come on, you two." He smiled at them pleasantly. "Relax. Deep breaths. If you're going to a war, why angsty? Leave the tension behind and calm down. It won't do you good if you're agitated."

Tadokoro wiped the tears in the corner of her eyes. "Okay."

"How about you?" He asked the redhead who's still stone-faced. "Hey hey, Soma-chan."

A silence.

He pouted. "You're being scary."

It broke a genuine smile on the redhead. "Seriously."

"There. Now let's go."

He didn't see how the two shared amused glances when they went inside. Tsuna let go of the two's hands and stayed back a little. He doesn't want to intrude. He can't just butt in to a fight he isn't part of. He could give his support, and that's that. He knew his limitations.

From what he gathered, the assignment was like with his group, imitate a dish with the given ingredients. However, instead of Japanese, it's French. The problem is, some of the cauliflowers given to the class have damages. Unfortunately, Tadokoro was one of the students who got a bad cauliflower. So as a chef, she tried her best to cope with the problem and gave a favorable solution. Shinomiya didn't like it and fired her. Soma felt unjustified with the decision and tried to appeal but the lecturer gave his ultimatum, even added a threat of expelling the redhead. So like the Soma everyone knows, the redhead challenged the sempai with Shokugeki. Then the rest is history.

Tsuna watched as Inui gives her verdict about Tadokoro's dish. From the looks of it, it was delicious. It was only Shinomiya's stubbornness that he won't accept it. He was trying to reduce the students with his own accord by putting the cauliflower in there as a trap. It was the usual sabotage situation that the French chef thought a student chef, like Tadokoro, should not be able to overcome with simple tricks.

"Doujima-san, this assignment was supposed to be entrusted to me." Shinomiya stated like it's a fact.

"Of course, Shinomiya. I am not dissatisfied with the test content and criteria you established. However..." Doujima gestured to Tadokoro, who almost took a step back but Tsuna put a hand on her shoulder that made her relax. "At least she tried to cope with the situation, right? Don't you think her guts are worth considering?"

"I don't." The magenta-haired chef turned his head away. "I don't think so at all."

"I think they are." Inui said otherwise while patting Doujima's shoulder.

"Hmm..." The man-in-suit hummed while looking at the Japanese cuisine chef with a deadpan yet appreciative look. "With this, we have a tie... It's unavoidable."

Tsuna's intuition clicked and understood Doujima's intention on picking-up Inui from his group's room. The chef already knew what Shinomiya was trying to do. So, to put an opposing force, he picked up the lady while trying to be a mediator. He probably got the idea yesterday, after firing that student with citrus-scented shampoo.

"It can't be helped," Doujima decided, making Tsuna hide behind his bangs with an identical smirk as the chef's. "An unofficial Shokugeki. I'll take charge of it. So, we will call it a ‘casual match’."

The room went still.

"Since we can't throw the training camp's program out of order, I'll have you both battle Shinomiya after you deal with all of today's assignments." The chef planned further.

"Hey wait, Doujima-san!" Shinomiya gaped in indignation. "Why do I have to keep up with this farce-"

Tsuna grinned merrily when he felt the aura of authority. Hah. He suddenly missed Reborn and Hibari. "Accept it, Shinomiya." Doujima said (ordered) calmly.

The sempai clammed up before shaking his head to keep his ‘cool’. "Phew... Okay. I'll go along with Chef Doujima's whim. Okay, Yukihira,"

Soma shuffled to the front, and Tsuna stood beside Tadokoro, who took refuge to his side. He didn't acknowledge the impressed looks from Doujima and Inui.

"If you win, I'll take back her expulsion. But if you lose," The sempai went for a feral grin. "I'll get you both fired."

"With that said, Yukihira and Tadokoro. After you finish your afternoon assignments, come to the hotel's annex." Doujima gave them an appraising gaze. "Show me your worth."

The three of them bowed.

Tsuna herded the two out of the room and was about to follow them when his name got called. "Yes, Sempai?"

"Are you interested to watch what will happen?" Doujima asked, earning Shinomiya's attention.

He looked at the man, then the challenged chef before shaking his head. "This is Soma and Tadokoro's fight. I wouldn't want to intrude that much."

"Hmm. But we already dragged you into it." The man tried again. "With your presence, you might give them more confidence."

"I believe Soma and Tadokoro will win, Doujima-sempai." The brunet said with a smirk. "Given the unfair circumstances-"

"Unfair?" Shinomiya spluttered.

"-they need to face, Soma will never back down, neither Tadokoro as long as they have each other's backs." He eyed the French chef. "It will never be fair to take on students by sabotaging their works. They work hard for what they've been doing, they try to cope and they dream. It might be alright for you to stand on top, but don't forget what you had to do for you to achieve such state. Regardless, this is my opinion only. Please take care of Soma and Tadokoro with fair judgement. Thank you."

Tsuna left the room with his head held high, but he faltered when he caught up with the two. Tadokoro is crying with puffed cheeks in anger, and Soma has this awkward panicky look on him. When yellow met brown, the former asked silently for help.

"Soma-kun had passed... You should've left someone like me alone." A new batch of tears from those blue eyes. "Why did you challenge..."

Tsuna chuckled when Tadokoro crouched and hugged her knees, sobbing. She's really angry, to the point that she spoke in her dialect. After signaling Soma to do his magic, he kneeled a knee on the ground and patted the bluenette's back. "There there, Tadokoro-san."

"Tadokoro." Soma called as he put down a knee too. The lady looked up in surprise. The redhead chuckled. "You sometimes talk in your dialect, right?"

Tsuna laughed while the lady spluttered.

"That's something you gave to say now?! And Tsuna-kun! It's not funny!" Tadokoro protested.

"Sorry, sorry." The brunet apologized as he took the handkerchief from the bluenette's pocket and dried her tears with it. "It's just too cute. I wasn't going to point it out but Soma did."

The lady puffed her cheeks causing the two boys to laugh more.

"Come on, stand up." Soma told them while offering his hands. "We'll be late for the start of the next assignment."

Tsuna received the hand and stood up before helping Tadokoro. "Up we go, Tadokoro-san."

Another bout of tears went down the lady's eyes as she stood up.

"Hey, hey. No more crying." Soma placated.

"Even though Soma-kun is always saving me," Tadokoro pursed her lips, guilty and crying with head bowed. "I ended up involving you in this. How should I apologize?"

The two boys looked at each other.

"Well, you can always cook for him." Tsuna suggested.

"Or speak in your dialect again." Soma teased before smiling at the lady. "But still, it was something I did on my own. You don't need to apologize."

The brunet snickered a little before speaking, asking the question of the day for a silent push. "Then why did you challenge him?"

"Isn't it obvious?" Soma stated as he started to walk ahead.

"E-Eh?" Tadokoro uttered as she looked up to see the redhead walking away.

"Tadokoro is not someone who should drop out here." The redhead elaborated over his back.

"S-Soma-kun." The lady stuttered in surprise.

"What he said was true." Tsuna seconded, tugging Tadokoro to walk. "You shouldn't be dropping out here. You even deserve an award for coping accordingly to the situation. I ultimately believe that Shinomiya-sempai was the wrong one in this case."

"But Tsuna-kun, i-if we lose, it's not only me who's gonna get fired. Soma-kun will be fired too."

"Do you believe in Soma?"

"Yes!" An answer with no hesitation.

"Then you should believe that you can win this too." Tsuna stopped walking and faced her. "You've seen him fight Mito-san with your help. You're his partner in Chapelle-sensei's class and in yesterday's assignment. Trust him to be with you in this challenge, be one other’s aides and keep each other up. Soma did what he think is right, and you're his friend. He won't abandon you, thick or thin."

"Tsuna-kun..." She sniffled, going teary again.

"I also believe in your abilities and skills, Tadokoro-san." He gave a smile. "You won't survive this long if you're not a gem like any other students in Tootsuki."

She sniffled, but seemed grateful. "Thank you, Tsuna-kun."

"No problem. Come on. We need to go. We're going to be late." He pulled her to a run.

"Hey!" A yell from a distance. "Why are you so slow, you two?!"

"Coming!" The two of them shouted back.

Sometimes later, Tsuna realized that for the first time, he didn't panic when he saw someone crying. Unlike a year ago, he was able to cheer someone up without blurting and rambling that can worsen the situation.

And honestly, he feels proud of himself.

"Who is that kid?!" Kojirou questioned, angry for being called unfair. "What gave him the rights to say my judgement was wrong, and that I'll lose to those two?!"

"He did say it was just his opinion." Hinako chirped, earning a glare. "What?"

"He's Tsunayoshi Sawada." Gin answered, an amused smile on his lips. "He passed Fuyumi's assignment, Hitoshi's trial, and-"

"Mine with flying colors!" Inui gave an impudent smirk to the French chef's way. "He made a perfect miso soup. And didn't you hear what Fuyumi-chan said yesterday? He's interesting. I even witnessed how he encouraged his groupmates to do better. And guess what? They all passed."

The two men stared at her.

"And it's me who's saying this as a Japanese restaurant owner. I won't even bat an eyelash if he blew your mind with that ending statement. Heck, I'm not that surprised that he's friends with Yukihira. With the way they react to each other, they must be best friends."

"No wonder." Kojirou muttered.

"I won't say that now, Shinomiya." Gin tutted while moving for the door. "That kid may not be what it seems, but he's more to what you thought. If I know, Sawada can give you one or two reasons to withdraw your decision over Tadokoro. Maybe even fight you in a cooking match."

"What?!"

"I'm not saying this with biased opinion. But of what I heard," A chuckle. "He was tutored by the greatest before he came to this academy."

"The greatest?" The two repeated.

"Ah. You must've heard him from the legends in Europe. He's the only one who cannot be satisfied by a mere five-star dish and who vanished for some years ago."

Shinomiya's eyes went wide. "You mean-"

"Yes. He was tutored by Reborn." Gin confirmed. "Lived with him, ate food with him, even cooked food with him. And according to the information I gathered, Reborn is here in Japan."

"Oh my..." Hinako gasped.

"This information is only discussed among us though. The child values his privacy and low profile." The manager opened the door. "Anyway, go back to work. Those students won't judge themselves."

"I think students judging themselves will be a good trial." Hinako chirped as she follows Gin. "Right, Doujima-san?"

Chapter Text

Chapter Eleven

The leaves moved with him as he ran through the terrain. With the use of his intuition, he dodged incoming bullets on his way. Zigzagging through the forest, he jumped to a steep slope and used his gloves as boosters to fly. His pursuers fell into his trap. Some fell; others tried to find a balance with the use of their comrades but ended up falling too.

Tsuna flew over to those who weren't deceived and started to fight them. They weren't a lot, but they are seriously skilled. He keeled a little when he got caught by surprise after a mafioso kicked him in the stomach. To retaliate, he gave him a straight punch to the right cheek that could've made Ryohei so proud. In minutes, he has unconscious bodies surrounding him.  Not letting his hyper will mode snuff out, he pulled his phone out of his safe secret pocket in his pants and dialed the hotel security number. He waited for their answer in three rings.

"Sawada-san?" A male security answered.

"Yes. East of the forest, near the steep part." He relied.

A short moment. "A-Ah. We see you in the CCTV."

"Thank you. Please be careful with them even though they're unconscious."

"It's alright, Sawada-san. You have a good way of making them stay unconscious. Thank you for doing the job."

"It is my job, Ossan." He looked at the camera attached to a tree and gave a wave. "Good job in advance."

"T-Thank you."

Tsuna slipped the phone back to its place. With a quick run as a start, he boosted up to the sky and went for the hotel's direction. He sure went far just to get the students out of harm's way.

Under the permission of Doujima, he got a pass to go over the fences so he could pull his ‘party’ away from the perimeter of the hotel. He was never been thankful of how the building was surrounded by trees and mountains. He thanked the man so much since he can't put any civilian in the way or endanger any of his friends. And tonight, he realized that he will never be able to get away from his life. He's knee deep on it already that he can't pull out anymore. He realized that he could deny his relation to Vongola and how he shouldered his title not so long ago, but they will always find him and label him a Vongola and the Decimo. That, and the fact that he’s the son of his father.

He's a mafioso by blood and by life. Oh how he wished to be washed off it.

"Uhm Souma-kun!"

Tsuna landed just by the side of the forest when he heard Tadokoro's voice calling out for Soma. He let his flame snuff out and removed his mitts as he walked closer to the two.

"Thank you..." Tadokoro bowed down a little. "So much. I will never ever forget this favor."

Soma smiled coolly and waved his hand. "Hurry up and go back. Everyone is worried."

Tsuna crept behind the redhead as the latter watched the bluenette ran for the building far ahead. He watched as Soma formed his waving hand into a tight fist and tried to smash it to the concrete beside him. He intercepted it by catching the fist. It took Yukihira offguard.

He knew something was up when he saw that smile. Of course, he knew; he used to wear that almost every day since the news was broken to him. A pent-up frustration hidden under the guise of a cool smile. He terribly knew that the redhead needed to vent those frustration. But Tsuna just couldn't give that. Regardless of how different they are, he knew Soma will regret injuring his hand.

"Wha-"

"Should you be injuring that hand of yours when you haven't served me my dinner?" He demanded with a raise of his brow. "What were you going to do, Soma Yukihira? Shirking on your duties while I'm not around?"

"Tsuna."

He gave a small smile and guided the hand to his shoulders before stepping forward to hug the redhead back. "I won't ask what happened, Soma." The hand gripped his shirt. "But I'm here, okay? Thick or thin, hell or high water. I'm here."

Soma buried his face on the crook of his neck. "I lost." Tsuna tightened his hold. "I feel so angry and frustrated and..." The redhead depleted. "Damn it."

"What do you want to do now?" He whispered.

"I want to polish my skills and gain more set after set."

"That's a plan then."

A deep breath. "Yeah."

They stayed like that for a minute. Just breathing and feeling each other's presence and warmth. Both know they don't hug anyone so often. Heck, Soma grew up not being used to be hugged, while Tsuna kept his distance from his mother since Nana deemed him a dame too which resulted of him being ashamed of himself. But under some circumstances, they couldn't help it. It's like they needed to breath in something to calm them down. And it just happened that both needed assurance, and Tsuna took the initiative to do it at the very first place until it become an occasional thing between them. When they needed it most.

"You okay now?" He asked.

"Yeah." They parted. A genuine smile graced the redhead's lips. "Thank you, Tsuna."

"This is what friends are for, Soma." The brunet reached out and ruffled the other's hair. "Let's go back to the others before you cook for the two of us? I bet they're worried for you as they were for Tadokoro."

"Mm-hm." A small nod.

Tsuna took the knife case and the hand that was holding it. "I wonder what we're going to do tomorrow."

"Maybe meet another alumnus?" Soma suggested as they started to walk.

"Maybe. I want something out of the ordinary." He suggested as the redhead walked alongside with him.

"Yeah. Like create a rainbow out of milk or something."

Sawada glanced at Yukihira, amused. "Can you do that?"

"Is there a chef who could do that other than me?" Yukihira bragged with his cool smile.

Tsuna chuckled. "Fine fine. You win."

They bantered back and forth as they entered the hotel. Tsuna waved at some of his groupmates who called his name. Soma teased him about it that he answered with a funny face. When the securities saw him, he waved his hand to them with a grimace. The men in uniforms nodded, getting the message before going in. He does not want any recognition.

When they got to Marui's room, his intuition tickled him. Tsuna had to pull Soma out of a slap's way when they opened the door. He had to catch Yuki though, since she almost lost her balance due to the momentum she exerted to her welcoming slap. He laughed when she started to shout at Soma, who was so surprised, about challenging some graduates. She was really trying to reach for him that the brunet had to exert effort to keep her upright.

"Calm down, Yuki! There's no point in attacking Yukihira!" Sakaki tried to placate.

"E-Eh! Calm down, Yuki-chan! I-If Soma-kun wasn't there, I definitely would've dropped out!" Tadokoro seconded in instance.

"Ah." Yuki blinked, considering the idea. "That maybe true but..." She narrowed her eyes before she went out of Tsuna's arms and jumped to Sakaki who petted her hair as she cried. "Ryouko!" She wailed.

"Yuki! Don't come crying to me just because you can't find anyone else after losing your temper!" Sakaki scolded before looking up to Soma, who was still flabbergasted by the entrance of the room. The lady was so relieved that her eyes were watery. "But anyway, we're really glad you're both okay."

"What happened to you two?" Shun asked from his perch on the chair. "You look drained."

Tsuna and Soma looked at each other while Yuki's crying face snapped to them before wailing again, causing the other girls to giggle.

Tsuna bumped his shoulder to Soma who smiled a little as they entered the room fully. "Feeling better?"

"Yeah. I just realized that I was fighting for Tadokoro's stay." The redhead nodded, calmer and understanding. "But that doesn't mean I don't want to improve anymore."

He let the redhead go and join the others. He leaned beside Shun's chair, peering outside the window for any movements. He pulled his phone out. Reminding himself, he patted his pockets to secure his mittens and pills before blinking to arrange the contacts in his eyes. The only thing he wasn't wearing was his headphones since he doesn't need to communicate. The contacts are precaution he needed just in case stronger enemies show up, and he needed to use the X-burner (he really doesn’t want to use anywhere near the school).

Lighting the phone up, he stared at the notification the hotel security gave. They were able to retrieve twenty-seven bodies. He silently did the math and replied a 'thanks' before going for Reborn's message tread. He felt a sense of accomplishment when he read the 'good job' the hitman replied to his messages. What would he say if Tsuna tells him that he's like constantly on hyper-dying-will mode here in Tootsuki- Ah no. Since he went away?

He can't really help it. It's like the constant need to calm down in front of his family and Ieyasu had given him a free access to hyper-dying-will mode without the flame on his forehead and the orange tint of his eyes. The only time he let loose is whenever he's alone in his room. He cannot remember the one time he let his guard down in front of the others. He's constantly on guard, except when he's with the redhead. Additional to that, he has yet to feel emotionally. It’s like he has yet to let himself breakdown after getting away. He knows he will one of these days, and he doesn’t want to do that honestly.

"Tsuna-kun?" He looked up to Tadokoro who was smiling at him shyly. "Thank you."

"I didn't do anything, Tadokoro-san." He shook his head. "You did it to the best of your abilities. Glad you made it."

"Un." She replied before blinking. "And it's Megumi, Tsuna-kun."

Tsuna inclined his head. "Megumi-chan?"

"Ryouko for me!" Sakaki permitted too from her spot.

He chuckled. "Okay, Ryouko-chan."

"Tsuna!" His eyes went to Soma who was motioning him to come while standing by the door. "I'm cooking dinner remember?"

He nodded as he pushed himself off the wall. He patted Shun's shoulder as he goes. "After that, you go bath."

"Yeah yeah. Eat first then bath." The redhead nodded as he took his knife case from the brunet. "I'm gonna make you a good meal as a compensation for my lose."

"No prob. More food for me." He shrugged. "I want dessert though."

"Sir yes sir!"

Tsuna eyed his groupmates who are working diligently with the dishes they need to do. It was by creativity under Chef Shinomiya's watch. He hummed a merry tune as he cleaned his station while waiting for his casserole to bake. One of the girls started to hum along with him, probably recognizing the song.

"Ah. Sawada-san. Here."

He stared at the chicken with white sauce then looked up to his fellow chef who gave it to him.

"Your parm on the first day was amazing. Thank you for sharing them with us." The student expressed before bowing.

Tsuna can't help his lips from quirking up. "Was it approved?"

"Pretty much." The other shrugged.

"Then thank you. I'll enjoy it to my heart's content."

The guy smiled happily before going back to his station. Tsuna did the last clean up before taking a stool and sat there. With his own cutlery, he started to eat the chicken. It was amazing. He suddenly thought of replicating it for Dino who loves to eat French food and to Reborn since that hitman loves to eat anything as long as European.

He stood up when his timer went off. Taking a mitt, he opened the oven and pulled out a large baking pan. He let the air cool it a little before taking a bread knife to cut it into forty-nine pieces with one in a little bigger size since it's for their lecturer. He grinned at how it looked. It was like a small USA flag with a big box on the upper side left. He's so glad he has his intuition. Even if he's stupid in Math, he could still cut things in equal sizes and in straight lines. (But with Reborn's tutoring? He can say he's average. Yet, he is dame-Tsuna. So meh. Still stupid for him.)

He placed the larger size into a plate. When he went out of his kitchen, he gestured his classmates to the casserole. They brightened up a little and nodded. In a careful and gentle way, he put the plate in front of Shinomiya and took two steps backward.

"This is...?"

"Cheesy Croissant Casserole." Tsuna introduced with pride. Hey. He needs to at least be proud of the things he can produce by himself. "Please, dig in." He said in French.

"Hmm. Let's see." Shinomiya countered with the same language as he started to cut the casserole into bits. "Your friends have lost."

"I'm aware." Tsuna replied, remembering how frustrated Soma was that night.

"You said they will win."

"And they did." He glanced at the man. "They weren't fired, were they?"

The man opted to eat his dish instead of answering. Tsuna's lips quirked a little when he saw the man flutter his eyes close and tightened his hold on his cutlery. He didn't say a thing when Shinomiya continued to eat the dish like he wasn't even there. He waved at his groupmates to eat their shares since some of them are already finished, and he's part of the few who haven't gotten checked.

It only took minutes for the French chef to finish it. Tsuna took the glass on the table, went for the nearest tap and pour some water in it. He placed it carefully on the table and let the chef take the water.

"Do you remember how you did this?" Shinomiya questioned.

"Yes, Chef." He replied positively. "Would you like to get the recipe then? I'd love to share. I don't even want the credit."

"I cannot take such thing without your name." The chef insisted. "You can just give a simple name."

Tsuna thought for a sec. "Maybe a codename or something?"

"Yes."

"Sure thing. I could probably write it tonight since I have an afternoon assignment, Sempai. I will give it to you in the lounge room at the twentieth floor? Since the alumni's rooms are situated there?" He offered.

"Okay. Anyway, you pass."

"Thank you."

When he got back to his groupmates, they praised him for passing with his casserole. Tsuna only smiled and blush at such attention. He isn't this popular in his room in Namimori.

The afternoon assignment was self-evaluation from Gotouda Donato after making their own dish. Tsuna honestly didn't know what to do since he was the one who made his dish. But then, he is the one who made it so there is a possibility that it can be remade and be done better by other chefs. He answered to his upperclassman that with his current skills, he cannot make an ultimate dish nor expand the possible outcome a simple dish can evolve into. However, he assured him that he can make a worthy food under any circumstances for he is a chef through and through.

When he was asked to rank his gourmet from one out of ten, he answered ten. He was taught by the greatest, and the greatest expects perfection.

(Tsuna realized that he sounded like Kyouya, Mukuro, and Reborn with a touch of Tsunayoshi Sawada in the way he talked. Proud, conceited, and cockily all-knowing but still modest in a way. He lamented how his grade will turn out.)

(He still passed, by the way.)

When the evening came, they were tasked again to make a meal. Instead of fifty, they took it higher to eighty since there are visitors to the school clubs they served for the past two days. After evading Soma's attention and taking a shower in his room, he proceeded to meet the others with a mental note of his promise to Shinomiya to write his recipe on the Cheesy Croissant Casserole.

"Tsuna!" He looked back to Soma who was leading the others. "Why aren't you in your yukata?" The redhead questioned, causing to gain the others' attentions.

The brunet smiled a little nervously. As sharp as ever. He can't tell him that he's waiting for a signal from the security about his attackers, can he? "I was going to go out for an evening jog."

"You aren't tired yet with all the things we did?" Marui questioned, looking skeptic.

"Tired." He answered with honesty. Add on his adventure for the past nights? No good sleep at all. "But I need to keep moving since if I stop, I'll become sluggish by then and be more exhausted."

Marui took this into consideration. "A chef must exercise too to keep fit."

"Naa, Tsuna." Soma said as they walk side by side. "I saw some people talking at the side awhile ago. I think they're planning something different for us to do."

The two looked at each other and grinned excitedly. Well, Tsuna low-key loves to make new food after being branded a chef, although not too often. It was the same with Soma. But in terms of the brunet, it is something he wants to share to Reborn, to the kids and Nana when he comes back. He's not planning to open up his own shop. While they speculate the challenge their alumni will give them, their dorm mates sweatdropped at their tenacity.

"They sure are excited about something." Ryouko giggled softly.

"I like the way their eyes shine brightly." Megumi pointed out. "I mean look at how their eyes lit up."

"Especially when they see each other." Shun hummed, discreetly staring at the two who resorted to poking each other's sides. "I'm not even sure who's influencing who. Sometimes they have the same personalities. Sometimes they're so different."

"That begs the question of what will they do if they suddenly got a misunderstanding?" They looked at Yuki who said that. She's unusually serious and thoughtful. So different from her comical and cheerful disposition.

A silence.

"Nah. Don't say something like that, Yoshino." Marui admonished, glasses reflecting the two who are laughing their asses off in front of them. "We don't want that to happen."

"Yeah. Just thinking that they'll fight won't settle well with me. I can't see them getting all awkward and not talking. It's too..." Megumi trailed off.

"Saddening?" Ryouko supplied softly.

They nodded.

"Soma- Ah." They looked at Tsuna who is staring at them while Soma ran away. The brunet made a serious face that they never saw before. "Is there a problem? What's with the mood around you?"

"It's nothing, Tsuna-kun." Ryouko replied in a reassuring tone and a kind smile. "We're just talking about the missing bedtime in the program book."

They paused when the brunet beamed. "It's probably because we're going to research all night!"

"Huh?"

Just in time, the speaker by the ceilings went on with a small noise. They all looked up to it, stopping on their tracks.

"This is a message to the entire student body. Good job today as well."

"Ah. It's Doujima-sempai." The others said while Tsuna listened intently, hand on his phone.

"One hour from now, at ten o'clock. Please change into your uniforms and gather at the main banquet hall. That's all." Then the speaker made a small noise again before going off completely.

"Yahoo!" The two shouted in glee.

"Am I the only one who doesn't want this?" Shun voiced.

"It can't be helped." The girls giggled.

Chapter Text

Chapter Twelve

"Ah. Everyone is obviously worn out." Ryouko observed while looking around the hall where every student sat with slumped shoulders and exhausted expressions.

"Of course, they are." Yuki answered before groaning. "I too want to hurry up and sleep. But given the hint Tsuna-kun said..."

"Yeah." Sakaki sighed before smiling weakly. "At least we won't be surprised anymore."

Yuki looked at the two who were busy looking at Tsuna's phone, hands tightly grasped together. They even roped Megumi in it. "Yeah. Thanks to Tsuna-kun, we can be ready for more challenges. I'm already thinking of a good amount coffee to drink."

"That sounds like a plan." Ryouko giggled as she joined Yuki to see Shun who was standing beside Marui.

Meanwhile...

"I'll take the third picture." Soma volunteered and took the phone from the brunet. He smiled big to the camera while Tsuna and Megumi grinned. "Say cheese!"

"Cheese!" Tsuna and Megumi said between their teeth then laughed after the photo was taken.

"What?!" Soma innocently questioned.

"Nothing, Soma-kun." Megumi waved off, still giggling.

"You're just too cheesy." Tsuna jabbed, earning another fit of laughter from the bluenette.

The redhead snickered and looked at their photo. "Nice. We look good."

"Yeah?" Tsuna verified as he looked too. "I could use that as a wallpaper. If given the opportunity, we can always have a group picture with the others."

"Yeah." Megumi nodded as she peered at it too.

"Yukihira!"

They all looked back to those who called Soma. Tsuna and Megumi stepped back a little when two blond(ie)s came running for the redhead. They started to bombard the redhead with questions pertaining to the Shokugeki he had with Shinomiya.

Honestly, he knew Soma is still bitter about it. Yukihira may have told him about his loses to his old man, but it doesn't mean he still likes it. Soma will always want to win. To be better and to be skilled enough to prove that he's worthy to inherit their family diner.

"Now now," He interjected after Soma said they lost. "Don't talk about that here in public. The administrators do not know about it. It's not even a Shokugeki but a casual match. If you confirm it to Soma, not only him will be punished, but also you two."

The two blondes railed back, shocked.

He saw Soma mouthed 'thank you' at the corner of his eyes.

"Let's keep it as a rumor, okay?" He added on, earning nods.

"Sorry, Yukihira, Tsuna-kun." Mito apologized.

"Sorry, Yukihira." The other blond said before giving Tsuna a meaningful gaze. "And you are?"

"This is Tsunayoshi Sawada!" Soma introduced cheerfully, bumping his shoulder to his. "You can call him Tsuna."

"Takumi Aldini, a pleasure to meet you." The blond introduced himself. "Takumi is fine."

Tsuna perked up. Aldini in Italian means wise and experienced. He must be the guy Soma got a little intimated with. "Italy, right?"

"Yes." Takumi nodded, shocked.

He smiled, glancing at Soma who had a small red across his cheeks. "Some of my family came from Italy. Nice to finally meet you."

"O-Oh."

"Ah! It's Erina Nakiri!"

The brunet turned his head to the door to see Erina and Arato coming in. Like always, they were given a wide berth by the student population. Tsuna wondered if being popular ever stressed the blondie. The top student looked around as she settled in a spot, and their eyes met. Tsuna gave a wave to the two with a smile of his own. Arato brightened up while Erina shyly waved back.

At least they don't shy away from him.

"Ok, seems like everyone is gathered." They faced the stage where Doujima stood in front of a podium. "Everyone, please give your attention to the stage." The murmurs in the hall quietened. "The reason I had everyone gathered is to inform you about tomorrow's test."

The announcement elicited some mumbles of complains.

"The content of the test is to provide a new breakfast menu." Doujima's stern gaze surveyed all of them, silencing the noise. "One that is appropriate for the guests here at Tootsuki resort. Breakfast is a hotel's face. It's an important meal that directs the beginning of the guest's day. For their table, we want you to propose a course. One that will shine as a jewel and has a fresh surprise."

Tsuna's and Soma's hands tightened their grasp on each other as noise erupted again.

"The main ingredient is egg." Doujima raised the familiar face of an egg. Brown and yellow eyes glanced at each other. "Whether the dish is Japanese, Western or whatever; the type doesn't matter. The format will be buffet-type breakfast. The exam starts at six am tomorrow. Be prepared for tasting at that time. You're free to use your time as you wish until morning. Every kitchen is open for use so you may use them for practice run. It's fine to return to your rooms and sleep too. Well then, let's meet together again at six o'clock. Dismissed."

Tsuna sweatdropped at how the chef smirked whilst he watched their fellow students panic for the test and lack of sleep. He can relate a little, since Takesushi has the same dilemma every once in a while. Well, all according to Takeshi and from Tsuna's experience as a helper there from time to time (Reborn's idea for family bonding), sometimes, Tsuyoshi Yamamoto has no sleeps at all, doing test runs for new sushi dishes. Tsuna often volunteers as a taste tester so he could at least help. He even ropes up his guardians in it (equally, the whole family), so the sushi chef can at least have a lot of opinions to consider.

Heh. Good times.

"Hah! Look forward for it, Yukihira!" Takumi challenged suddenly, earning Tsuna's attention. "With classic Italy's egg dishes arranged in the Aldini style, I'll show you a supreme breakfast!"

"Oh." Then the redhead turned to the chubby looking student beside Takumi. "What kind of classic egg dishes does Italy have?"

"Well, let's see." The student looked upwards, blinking his eyes. "There are eggs with cheese, or mixed with vegetables."

"Why are you telling him, Isami!" Takumi shrieked in dread.

Tsuna perked up when he remembered something. "Am I the only one who saw an egg with white wine in a mixture?"

"Oh?" The student uttered in shock, not even sparing his brother a look. "I haven't tried that."

"Ah. Tsuna, this is Isami Aldini. Takumi's twin brother." The redhead introduced. "Isami, this is Tsunayoshi Sawada. Tsuna is okay with him."

"A pleasure." Isami smiled.

The brunet nodded. "Likewise."

"Come on Isami! Let's go! Don't spoil it all than you already have!" Takumi said as he took his brother away.

Tsuna and Soma only watched them leave. The brunet almost compared that escaping act with Bianchi and Hayato's relationship.

"Naa Tsuna." Soma called and looked at him. "When we entered Tootsuki, wasn't our test composed of an egg as the main ingredient?"

The brunet nodded, remembering their first day. "Yeah. Right, Erina-chan?"

The blondie, who was beside them, jerked out of start and looked at them.

"Oh! It's Nakiri! It was eggs too, right?" Soma chirped with his grin.

Erina got torn between snapping at Soma and answering politely for Tsuna. She depleted and nodded. "Yes. But don't show them your vulgar way of cooking, Yukihira!"

"Eh? But you enjoyed my dish that time." The redhead reminded, earning an indignant Erina and a chuckling Tsuna.

"Erina-sama-! Oh. Tsuna-kun. Yukihira." Arato greeted as she came nearer to them. She smiled at the brunet who beamed back. "Good to see you again."

"Why does Tsuna have a smile and I don't?" Soma pouted.

"Because you suck." Arato harrumphed. Tsuna snickered when Erina nodded to second her assistant. "The kitchen arrangements has been completed, Erina-sama."

"Splendid. Let's go." Erina nodded before regarding the two males. "Good luck with the test, Tsuna-kun, Yukihira."

"So to the two of you." Tsuna bid, waving them goodbyes.

"Bye, Tsuna-kun." Arato wished goodbye before turning her head in a sharp way, away from Soma's direction.

"They are so mad of me." The redhead tittered.

"And I can't defend you because of what you did." Tsuna sighed exasperatingly fond. "Anyway, let's go find a kitchen for you?"

"Ha? Aren't you going for a test run too?"

"I'll do it when I get an idea of what I'm going to do."

"Okay."

Soma stared at the door the lady and her 'butler' used to go out. He's a little put-out since the woman really surprised him. Who does that even? And her appearance too. It's like she came from a snowy place or something with how white her skin and hair. He looked down to his dishes, only for his eyes to dart on Tsuna's last spot before he went out.

"Ah. Sorry, Soma. I need to go. I'll be back in a jiffy." Tsuna bid in almost panicky expression under his usual calmness, phone in hand.

Soma looked at the time and frowned. The brunet has been gone for forty-five minutes and counting. Looking down at his dishes, he decided to put them away and search for his friend. Who knows what happened to that brunet. He was the one who said so himself that he was clumsy.

He looked around the kitchen outside his to at least see a glimpse of familiar gravity-defying brown hair. He already saw their dormmates and asked if they saw Tsuna anywhere; it was obvious that they didn't. So he went for the lobby and outside the hotel. The brunet did say he wanted to run and forgo it after the announcement for assembly. He was nearing the forest when he saw a flash of orange at the corner of his eyes. He craned his head to the forest and squinted his eyes. There is a light along the trees. He was going to dismiss it as hotel securities just doing their usual patrol when he heard rustling of leaves and something coming towards him.

His yellow eyes widened. As if on slow motion, he followed Tsuna's form fly towards the wall just beside him. The brunet swiftly rolled and changed his flying form to something akin to crouching on the wall, steel-like gloves touching the concrete. And with that, he completely avoided a possible damaging impact. Orange eyes momentarily looked at his way before Tsuna darted like a rocket towards the trees again.

Soma stood frozen in there. Brain processing what he saw. Orange eyes, ragged clothes, a flying body that changed landing in midair, and a flame. There was an orange flame on Tsuna's forehead. Just above where the brunet's brows meet.

Just what in hell is happening?

"Hey! What are you doing here, kid?!" He looked at the two security guards who were running towards him.

"You can't be here. There are armed men in the forest." One of them said, a gun in his hand and guiding him to walk.

He panicked. "B-But my friend is in there."

"Is it Sawada-san?" The guard questioned while the other one talked to his walkie-talkie. He nodded. "He has it under control. He's the one who told us that you're here. Please, kid. Cooperate with us. We know you're worried. Even us are worried for him. But we won't be at any help if we're here."

Soma's gut churned to something bad when he heard small sounds of pellets flying. Regardless, he agreed. "Okay."

"Rest assured, Sawada-san. We have your friend." The other guard reported to the walkie-talkie before looking at him. "We should go. He doesn't want those people to see him."

"Okay." Yukihira walked with his fists tightly closed. 'What's going on, Tsuna?'

Tsuna tapped his foot impatiently on the floor of the elevator. He felt jittery and panicked to the core. God. If he didn't catch the guy who aimed his gun on Soma's direction on time, Soma would've been-

Damn! He doesn't want to think about it!

The elevator 'ding'-ed, signaling him that he arrived to the floor he desired to land. He immediately shuffled out and jogged for the lounge room of the floor. Two guards were situated there. He nodded at them in greetings before opening the door. Inside the room were Doujima and Soma, sharing a tense silence.

The older chef's eyes met his. Tsuna cannot avoid his shoulders from tensing. His intuition warned him that the manager isn't angry. Just worried. What his alien is telling him is how unsettled Soma was. The redhead didn't even look at his way. It made Tsuna purse his lips before he bowed his head to Doujima.

"Thank you, Doujima-san." He silently expressed.

The chef nodded his head a little reluctantly, knowing fully what the gratefulness is for. "I'll leave you two to talk."

When the hotel manager went out, neither of the two said a thing. The silence in the room was suffocating. The tension can't be cut by a mere sharp knife. With this kind of atmosphere, Tsuna doesn't know what to do. Even his intuition is quiet. His head is starting to overthink of all possible outcomes of the conversation he will have with his friend. And admittingly, they all have negative result. All except for one.

Tell all the truth to Soma.

But he has to consider the omerta. The Vindice. In all situation, he doesn't want to involve anyone in the mafia. He was adamantly negative on involving Takeshi and Ryohei in them. Even Hibari. But with Reborn, it can't be. And now...

Closing his eyes and taking a deep breath, he stilled his nerves. At any outcomes, at any result... They need to talk.

"Are you okay, Soma?" He asked quietly.

"Yeah." A one-word answer. Clip. Silent. Cold.

Tsuna can't help the wince. "I'm sorry."

"We've known each other for five months now, Tsuna." Soma started, his hair hiding his eyes. "I know small things about you since you tell me that much. I could care less of who you are, of what you are, or who are you associated with. But to be the only one who is not informed about what you have been doing here in the hotel for the past three nights, is that even right?"

The brunet pursed his lips, gut churning with guilt, self-hate, regrets, and hesitation.

"I won't ask for any compensation or payment for all the things I did for you because I know I did those for my own accord. But at least warn me of the things you're going to do." Soma stood up and walked. Tsuna tensed when the redhead strode past him and headed for the door. "You said so yourself, what friends are for. You're there and always. But why can't I do the same things for you?"

Tsuna closed his eyes as the door opened softly and shut closed in the same manner. He clenched his fists tight to hold back everything before he turned around and opened the door. He walked on Soma and Doujima talking. When the older chef noticed him, he stepped back a little.

Tsuna opened his mouth and closed it again, when he noticed that Soma isn't looking at him. Facing even. His heart clenched in pain.

"C-Can-" He cleared his throat. Fuck. It almost broke. "-you forget what you saw for tonight, Soma? I don't want it to affect your performance for the rest of the week."

"Yeah." A cold response.

"Thank you."

The redhead faced Doujima and bowed his head before going to his way.

"Are you okay, Sawada?" The chef asked when Soma got to the elevator.

Tsuna contemplated what to do before he gave a shaky smile. "I-I'm alright. Thank you for following my command. Soma could've been hurt if you didn't tell them to do it."

"You're the one keeping us safe by sacrificing yourself, Sawada. We should be the one thanking you." The chef stared at him more. “Are you sure it was for the best not to tell Yukihira the full truth?”

He nodded stiffly. "I-I need to go. Good night, Doujima-sempai. Good work for tonight."

"You too."

Tsuna hurriedly walked away, tears cascading down to his cheeks. His heart is aching. Fingering his pocket, he pulled out his phone and dialed the number of he knew who could understand him.

Reborn woke up when he felt vibrations on the side of his pillow. He side-eyed Leon-phone before taking it. He squinted at the blinding light and tried to read who's calling. He quickly pressed answer when he registered who it was, put the phone by his left ear, and went out of the bed.

"Chaos." He greeted as he pulled his shoes under the bed and put them on.

A sob. "R-Reborn?"

He frowned as he opened the window of his room and jumped out there. "Why are you crying?"

"I-I m-messed up." Then a sniffle. "I-I m-messed up so b-bad."

"Tell me what happened." He said as he went over the fence of the house and started to walk on the streets. He can't stay where Ieyasu is. The kid might be eavesdropping on him or something. He caught him rummaging on Nana's phone once. Good thing the matriarch is smart to hide away all of Tsuna's messages for hers to see alone.

"T-They w-were here, and I-I took care of them." A deep breath. Reborn got the gist who that 'they' and 'them' were. The next words were said in a more understandable way. "I was in the middle of a fight when one of them attacked me by the side and sent me flying. I saw Soma when I got out of the forest before darting in again."

"So Soma saw you fighting?" He casually said the given name.

"N-Not literally. The g-guards told h-him I'm taking care of some a-armed men and it's dangerous for t-them to stay out t-there cause they m-might get in line of c-crossfire."

"Hm. It's the most plausible excuse to use since it explains why you came flying out and in. They were using silencers then?"

"Yes. But Soma was a-angry." A sob. "I-I don't know what to do. I don't want him to be angry at me. He's the only one I can hang on here."

The tutor rummaged his head for the certain friend he heard about from Nana. "I heard he helped you."

"Y-Yes."

"Why not tell him the truth?" He inquired. It is the most practical solution.

"Omerta."

Reborn hummed. "Vindice will probably take consideration of your situation. They are in debt to you."

"But what if he doesn't believe me? He never asked any questions, Reborn. He was always okay to the weirdness I do; how absurd my stories were about our experiences, and he accepted me as me. And he almost died tonight. H-He was almost gunned down by one of them. God. I always told him that I'm there for him and willing to help him. But I couldn't do the same to him. I couldn't tell him my problem, or what I'm going to do. Or what I'm about to do. I’m scared it will happen again. I don’t- I don’t want it to happen again. Reborn. How... How am I gonna..."

Reborn remained quiet as Tsuna cried. He understands his student's problem. After being stripped off his title and half of his family, he will really cling to the only thing he could see as his family or a friend after running away. After all, Namimori has become toxic for the brunet after Iemitsu and Ieyasu came; that's why he decided to leave.

He can even conclude that this Soma made his student happy and adjusted with the new school they're attending. Meeting new people and making the brunet forget his stupid role in the first place of his entire life. Probably enjoying all the experiences they got thrown by life. A true friend that not even Takeshi Yamamoto and Hayato Gokudera could be nor give. As loyal and as true as Tsuna. As reliable, kind and understanding as the brunet.

Thinking of how to help, he started to see scenarios. Possible ways until he landed into one. Hah. He won't want this relationship to end. Tsuna needed this. And maybe, that kid needs Tsuna too if he said those nice words. No one would say those words if they don’t want to share the burden of their friend.

"I bet he's not gonna talk to you anytime soon." He speculated, remembering all those things his fellow emotional humans do under the same situation.

A sob.

"If he does, make a compromise."

"C-Compromise?"

"Yes. Say you'll tell him the truth after talking to some people, the Vindice, to ask permission. Although give him a small background at first. That you're a part of an organization who gave you a handsome tutor to teach you things, especially self-defense. Don't give any specific time, since we don't know-"

"When will I be coming back there." A whisper.

"Yes. Is that enough?" Reborn asked as he rounded a corner to go back for the house. He walked long enough. He even passed by Namimori Middle.

"Y-Yeah. It can be okay. That will probably work."

"Can you endure days of not talking to him?" He asked again. Tsuna can be really anxious. An overthinker at best in some circumstances. He just hopes it won’t result to him getting a nightmare once he goes to sleep.

A bout of silence. "I-I don't know."

He 'tsk'-ed. "Do you remember what a sky is, Dame-Tsuna?"

"Y-Yes. He understands and accepts his elements." A panicky answer. Good. The hitman still has that effect on the brunet.

"Do you understand him?"

"Yes."

"Do you accept his reason?"

"Yes."

"Then are you satisfied with the result?"

"No."

Reborn felt pride at the latest answer. His student is becoming a true sky. But too early to graduate. "Then what will you do?"

"Endure." A deep breath. "I'll wait for him to talk to me. It is my fault. Then I’ll wait for a good time to give the compromise."

The tutor smirked when he realized something. "You're forming your own family, Dame-Tsuna."

"Hie! I-I'm not! Soma is just a good friend!" Then a mumble. "The best even."

"Heh. Anyway, why are you still awake til now?" He changed topic as he looked up to the sky. His student needs to be distracted for a bit.

"Oh. Well, we have this assignment in our training camp about giving a new breakfast menu for the hotel we're staying at- Ah shit. I forgot to give Chef Shinomiya the recipe of my Cheesy Croissant Casserole."

He blinked. He never heard that dish from Tsuna before. "That's new."

A shuffle. "Something I cooked yesterday morning. It got an approval, and the chef wants a copy of the recipe. I'm still thinking of what codename I'll put though. He wants to give me some credits even if I didn't want to. Then there's the breakfast menu I need to do a test run on."

Reborn hummed, impressed at how Tsuna sounded so busy, responsible, and grown up. To think his student grew up this much. He needs to give his thanks to that best friend of his. For now, he'll go along. "Do you have a dish in mind?"

"Yeah. I kinda thought of what dish you want to eat in the morning with an egg as a main dish. I mean, you're the only one I know who'll never be satisfied with just a mere food. I even think your standard went up with Kaasan's food as a comparison. You're a perfectionist."

"I know." He smirked.

"You're impossible. And I'm not saying the handsome part before the tutor."

"You dare?" He threatened.

"Hie! N-No! I will put it!" Then a sigh. "You're not even in front of me, yet I can already see the gun pointed at me."

"And it's not Leon." He added on with a tease.

"And it's not Leon- Hie!"

Reborn chuckled. "It's good you're not crying anymore, Dame-Tsuna."

"Y-Yeah. Thanks, Reborn. I didn't really know what to do. It's good you answered my call."

"Stupid. You're my student. I will help to the best of my abilities."

A shuffle. "Nee... When I come back, I'll cook you all the things I cooked in here. I promise."

"You better do it."

A laugh. "Saa, you should go to sleep. It's just two am. You need your rest with all your workloads in the morning."

"Okay. Don't die there." He instructed as he stopped in front of the Sawada gate.

"Never. Good night, Reborn."

It took him a sec to reply, relishing the first time he heard his student's voice after five months. "Good night, Dame-Tsuna."

Reborn stared at Leon. He let his partner transform back to his animal form and patted his head. As he went over the gate, he made a mental note to contact some of his associates to know what family is attacking Tsuna.

No one gets away from attacking his student. Once is okay. Twice is fine. But thrice? To the point that they created a problem to Tsuna? Enough is enough.

Chapter Text

Chapter Thirteen

Sighing deeply, Soma entered Hall A. He looked around, trying to see any familiar faces while looking for his station. He did see Tadokoro who was nervously trying to calm her nerves by writing the kanji of 'person' on her palm and eating it. There was also Takumi Aldini who was saying something but he couldn't hear with the distance. Then Erina Nakiri who has her station near his.

He couldn't help snickering when the blondie got startled with his presence. He went on with his station, starting to prepare the things he needed and his ingredients too. He was about to start when he saw some oranges in front of a brown bag. He sighed and looked around Hall A again to see at least a glimpse of one familiar gravity-defying mop of brown hair.

"I searched for him too." He eyed Nakiri who said that. "Tsuna-kun is probably in other halls."

"Ah." He uttered with a nod.

"You should be the one knowing what hall he is." The blondie stated, brows furrowed.

Soma paused a sec on his work before answering. "We couldn't meet this morning."

"Huh."

He looked around again before patting his stomach then sighed. Maybe he's going to be the one to cook his breakfast from now on.

"I'm so sorry for the delay, Shinomiya-sempai." Tsuna apologized with a bow. "I honestly didn't forget, but I kinda had a problem to take care of when I was about to write it. When I finished it, it was already three in the morning. I didn't want to wake you up so I waited for morning to come."

"I heard from Doujima-san that he needed you on something." The French chef responded and took the paper from his outreached hand. "So, there is no need to bow nor apologize, Sawada. I was the one who wanted the recipe."

The brunet straightened up. "No. Apology is a must since I set a time and place but I didn't come."

"You couldn't. You said so yourself, and Doujima-san already excused you to me after I told him what I requested from you over the dinner last night. Rest assured, you are not in any trouble." The upperclassman said with a small genuine smile. "Now, go. You need to get ready. You have forty-minutes to prepare."

"Thank you."

Tsuna walked in Hall D with a sigh. He looked around and tried to see familiar faces but he was greeted by his groupmates. He realized that his group mostly make up the hall when he greeted them back as he worked his way to his station. And with that, he concluded that Soma isn't with him. The brunet doesn't know if he wants to feel relieved or disappointed. Maybe Doujima thought that they need to separate for awhile because of what happened last night? He mentally thanked the man for the thoughtfulness.

Regardless, Tsuna focused his attention on the task at hand. He prepared the ingredients he needed on a separate side and for possible outcomes. He put up eight stoves, non-stick pans on top, a timer set on two-minutes, and a spatula. Craning his neck side to side, he focused on his breathing and waited for Shinomiya to start the program.

"Good morning." The French chef greeted through the mic and gained their attentions easily. "Are you ready to present your dishes?"

Tsuna noticed how the others looked at his way before shouting 'yes'. He chuckled. How can he tell them that he's not a good motivation at all?

"Heh. Energetic even if you don't have any rest. Anyway, I will tell you the conditions to pass. But then, let me introduce to you your judges."

The door opened and swarm of people came in, but his groupmates were quiet, assessing and analyzing. Probably trying to decipher how to capture their guests' attentions. Tsuna can't help his smile to that.

"These people are the suppliers in partnership of Tootsuki and the judges of your dishes with their families. They are well informed of the buffet breakfast with 'egg dish surprise' theme. Now don't make something embarrassing. We do not want to waste their hard works, do we?" Shinomiya introduced with a teasing tone at the end, that made Tsuna sweat drop.

Another group of people came in. Tsuna quirked his brow when he saw some important people among them.

"These are the staffs of Tootsuki hotel. From the highest position to the lowest rank." The chef raised two fingers. "Now, I will tell you the conditions. First, you will need the approval of these people regarding your food. And second, you have to produce two hundred dishes in two hours. Those who are able to comply these conditions will pass."

A hand was raised.

"Yes?" The alumnus queried.

"Shinomiya-sempai, is there a possibility that the people from other hall will come in?" One of the girls inquired.

The upperclassman smiled. "Good question. Yes. There is a possibility."

His groupmates looked at each other and nodded. "We can do this!"

"Right, Sawada-san?" One of the boys asked, looking at him for encouragement.

Tsuna smiled reassuringly. "Yes. We will. No giving up."

"Yes!"

"Now everyone, enjoy the breakfast feast to the fullest." Shinomiya gestured their guests to go in. "Please begin judging."

Tsuna started to make a batter with a mixture of eggs, milk and chives, then seasoned it with salt and pepper. He put small cubes of butter he already cut in prep awhile ago on every pan with seconds in between, and let them melt. Gaining a small momentum, Tsuna started to hum a song he heard in the TV once as he poured an egg batter on a pan with the use of a ladle. He set the timer for two minutes as he put some on the other pans as well after their butters melted.

When the timer went off, he flipped the first egg and set the timer again before flipping the rest. He stacked them in a pile after the two minutes timer went off again. Doing the same cycle, he added another routine on his job by putting baked-to-crisps bacon, avocado slices, cooked black beans, cheddar and salsa on the eggs, before rolling them up twice, and served a plate with two stuffed egg rolls in them.

The first person he attracted was an old man with a cane. Tsuna was fast to offer the man a seat before continuing his work. The people gathered in after the old man sighed in relief and thanked him for the food and kindness. He only nodded and smiled. He became busy keeping the eggs from frying and serving the people at the same time. Quickly, he began to get used to the routine after three cycles. He even had the gall to chat with the other eaters while he stuffs the egg wraps. Before he knew it, he's reaching two hundred plates in a span of one hour and thirty minutes.

"Woah. This one is unique!" A voice exclaimed.

"You're right, boss." Another one with a matured tone answered.

"Like burritos, right?" A teen-voice suggested.

Tsuna can't help himself from blinking as he reconsidered the idea. "Well, we can call them egg burritos."

"Yeah- Tsuna?!"

The brunet looked up to see Dino, Romario, and a purple haired teen with piercings and tattoos. "Oh."

"What ‘oh’?!" Dino demanded as he paused from eating his share. "What are you doing here?"

"Duh. Cooking." The teen beside the Chiavallone boss underlined.

The blond flushed. "Shut up, Skull!"

The brunet perked up as he resumed to his job. "You're Skull? Didn't recognize you there."

Skull laughed. "It's probably because of the get-up."

"Maybe you could remove some of your make-up or something? Try looking for a punk-ass look, instead of a madman. You'll look good for a change." Tsuna shrugged as he served another person with the last of his burritos.

"Woah. What happened to my brother?" Dino boggled. "You became sassy and bold."

"Circumstances." The brunet signed as he stocked another pile of egg wraps on the empty plate and started to put some butters on the pans. "Do you want water, Romario-san?"

"Please." The second-hand of Chiavallone replied in a brittle voice. "Your dish took me home, Decimo."

Tsuna put the glass of water carefully on the counter and gave a tight-lipped smile. "I'm glad. But I'm not the Decimo anymore, remember?"

"You are to us, Tsuna." Dino stated firmly as he stocked their plates on the side where the other plates were placed. "I swore you're my brother and not Ieyasu."

"The Arcobaleno thinks the same." Skull seconded, leveling him a look. "You were the one who freed us from the curse, not Ie-whatever. Kawahira had stated his decision too. Even Byakuran did."

"But Vongola already made their decision years ago." He shrugged as he started to put the toppings on the egg wrap. "I'm a scapegoat- Ah. Thank you, Sir." He bid to an important man who ate his food with gusto.

"Then Vongola be damned." Skull predicted, standing with his hands on his waist and smiling at him. "We made an alliance with the family of Tsunayoshi Sawada. Nothing more, nothing less."

Tsuna had to stop his hands from working at the declaration, and wiped the corner of his eyes with his apron to rid of tears that suddenly went out. He rushed for the faucet to clean his hands again before going back. Damn it. He was so moved from what Skull said. "Thank you."

The stuntman grinned.

"But you know, when Iemitsu said you were gone and Reborn told us that you ran away, I didn't expect you to be here—cooking and greeting people with a smile." Dino commented. "No wonder I can sense a faint sky flame in the atmosphere. You've been keeping this place stay at peace. Even your fellow cooks seem composed and in a zone."

"Aren't you glad that you came here as a supplier of wine, Boss?" Romario remarked. "You get to see Sawada-san."

Dino blushed when brown eyes looked at him curiously. "I've been searching for you since Reborn said you ran away. I couldn't help feeling worried since you've been pushing us away."

He bowed his head in guilt. "I'm sorry, Dino-nii. Dad and Ieyasu asked me to give way since you're originally Ieyasu's family. That, you know, I'm just a cover for him."

"Hah. Tell that to Xanxus!" Skull gurgled. "He had been on Iemitsu and Timeteo for what they did to you. He also swore that if you wish, or any of us wish, for him to assa-"

"Shh!" Tsuna admonished Skull who laughed with the two Chiavallone.

"Okay, we'll use damn. So if you wish to damn Ieyasu, he'll do it for free." The stuntman worded more carefully with a sadistic smile.

"What?!" He gaped.

"That's what he swore in front of all Vongola associates." Dino shrugged.

"Five minutes more!" Chef Shinomiya announced.

Tsuna stared at the three. He wants to know what happened but given the circumstances... "Can you meet me in the lobby? We'll talk about this later."

"Sure." Dino nodded, understanding what Tsuna needs. "We'll wait for you."

Romario bowed a goodbye while the two waved at him as they walk backwards.

"What? Soma Yukihira from Hall A is about to reach his two-hundred plates?" One of the girls exclaimed from the other side of the room, taking him offguard.

Tsuna looked down to the last of his egg wrap with contemplation before he spoke up. "Wait!"

"What is it, Tsuna?" Dino asked, startled with the sudden shout.

"Wait." He said as he quickly made four burritos, put them in a plate and covered the whole thing with transparent wrap. He went out of his station and put Dino's hands on the sides of the plates. "I entrust you to give this to a redhead with a name Soma Yukihira in Hall A."

"Who is that?" The blond queried.

Tsuna felt a lump forming in his throat, but he bravely swallowed it. "Soma is a special friend of mine. He's very important."

"A family?" Skull asked. Since if a person is important, he's already a family to the brunet.

Tsuna nodded his head immediately. "A family. Tell him to eat it because I know he hadn't eaten anything for breakfast, and don't overexert himself. Also, it's not a peace offering. It's a meal he needs to eat and tell him to take a nap, even for a little time since knowing him, he won't."

"O-Okay." Dino nodded, processing all the message while staring at those pleading eyes. This person must be really important to him. "I won't let you down."

Tsuna tightened his hold on those big hands. "Thank you."

"Sawada-san? Are you still up?" He looked back to the guards who were shyly smiling at him.

"Go. We can talk later." Skull shooed.

Tsuna nodded before smiling to the hotel securities. "Of course. Please wait. I'll serve you. How was your night?"

"You don't have the caliber to stand on Tootsuki's top. To prove that, you barely finished an assignment that required to make only two hundred meals." Alice Nakiri insulted with a carefree smile on her lips.

Soma chuckled good-naturedly. "Right?! I really panicked a bit there. I really failed there." The redhead marveled the confusion on Alice Nakiri's face and the shock from others before he continued. "But now, I've got the experience of failing."

He refrained himself from grinning when the albino puffed her cheeks in ire. "Hmp! What a cunning man... Anyway," She turned her back on him with a smirk. "I won't lose to you people, okay?! I'm waiting expectantly for the moment I get to defeat you personally."

"Interesting. When that happens, I'll gladly be your opponent." He rebutted back.

Alice walked with her butler and raised a hand. "Yes. Let us meet soon!"

Soma watched them leave before looking up to the speakers when it made a noise.

"A message for those who completed two-hundred meals." Doujima's voice rang out. "The next assignment starts in four-hours. The time until then is free time."

The students complained how short the time for them to take a nap.

Soma sighed and rested the back of his waist on the counter. He is seriously tired with the stunt he did. He overestimated himself too much. Damn. He almost failed there. Hunching a little, he put a hand on his stomach. Pouting, the redhead patted it. He is hungry too.

"Ah. You're the only redhead here."

Soma looked up to see three people approaching him. A shaggy blond in green coat with faux fur on the collar, a middle-aged man with rectangular glasses, and a purple-haired guy around his age in casual attire and purple make-up. When he inspected thoroughly, he noticed the blond carrying a plastic covered plate with four stuffed egg wraps.

Soma straightened up a little when they stopped in front of him.

"You must be Soma Yukihira, right?" The blond verified with a disarming smile.

Soma nodded, baffled how many people know his name. "Yes. What can I do for you?"

"Tsunayoshi Sawada wants to give this to you." The redhead was presented the plate. "They're freshly made too, from Hall D."

"He said," The teen started off as Yukihira received the plate. "You need to eat that because he knows you hadn't eaten anything for breakfast, and don't overexert yourself."

Soma looked down at the food.

"It's not a peace offering." His yellow eyes went for the middle-aged man. "It's a meal you need to eat, and you must take a nap even for a little time since knowing you, you won't."

The redhead slumped as the words registered, eyes stinging at their corners and a small smile on his lips. "Seriously."

"He also said you're an important family member." The blond stated before offering his hand. "I'm Dino Cavallone, sworn brother of Tsunayoshi Sawada. Nice to meet you."

Soma put the plate beside him and accepted the hand. "Soma Yukihira."

"This is Romario, my right-hand man." The middle-aged man nodded at him with a kind smile.

"And I'm Skull, a stuntman." The teen said.

The redhead's eyes lit up. "That's awesome."

"Welcome to the family, Yukihira." Dino added on as they withdrew their hands. "Thank you for taking care of Tsuna."

"I-I..." Soma looked down, guilty as he remembered what happened last night. "It's the other way around."

"Hey. That's what family is for." Skull mollified, a hand on his shoulder. "You take care of each other. Besides, if I heard it right, you had a fight. I don't know if you're angry with him or just upset, but bear in mind that Tsuna will never abandon you."

"He can be very secretive, you know." The blond mused with understanding. "He left home without saying anything, so I know what you feel. We swore to be brothers in anything but blood, yet he never said anything to me. This is my first time seeing him after five months."

Soma blinked remembering how he met Tsuna. "Right. He did say he ran away."

 "I'm not urging you to understand him, Yukihira. But give him time. He will tell you everything when it's right." Dino added on further.

Yukihira nodded weakly. "Okay."

"Anyway, congrats for passing. We would like to talk more but we need to go. We have to catch up with Tsuna about family matters." The blond gave him a cheerful grin. "By the time Tsuna brings you along and gives the sign, we'll include you to the craziness we have."

He remembered all of the stories the brunet usually tells him. "All with chaos written in them?"

Romario laughed. "Reborn-san will like you."

"I live to please." Soma responded, his smile turning with a lilt.

"Let's go. The kid needs to eat and sleep. Tsuna is also waiting." Skull pushed the older guys to the door. "See you soon, Yukihira."

"Yeah!" He bid before reaching out for the plate again.

He went over his station once more and sat on the stool there. He took a fork, removed the cover, and dug in after saying his thanks. Soma had to rub off the tears that were threatening to fall as he ate. Like always, Tsuna's food tasted and felt home. There's that seasoning that gives him a flattering heart and a sense of warmth. It was obvious that everything was carefully made, handled with care, and were wished to bring calm to those who eats it.

"Soma-kun?"

"Hmm?" He hummed, wiping away the tears. "What is it, Tadokoro?"

The bluenette stared at him before smiling softly. "I'll get you water."

"Thank you."

"I hope you and Tsuna-kun will make-out your misunderstanding." Tadokoro said as she slid the glass of water to his side. "You won't be a set of twins if you're not together."

He sniffled. "Yeah. We will."

Chapter Text

Chapter Fourteen

Tsuna opened an eye and peered at the door where a series of knock is resounding. He gazed at the clock in the bedside table and wondered who will knock at his door in three-fifty of the afternoon. Exhaling a breath, he went out of bed and trudged for it. He turned the lock and opened the door to see who it was. It was Shun outside, waiting in his school uniform.

"Thought so. Didn't you hear the announcement?" The auburn questioned and followed in when Tsuna opened the door wider before going back inside.

"No. Were we summoned again?" The brunet asked as he slipped on his long sleeves. Good thing he didn't forgo his pants when he decided to take a nap, and changed shirts instead.

"Yeah. Four o'clock in the lobby." The teen answered, leaning on the wall beside him.

Tsuna thought of the reason why they are being called, flipping around his brain for the schedule he memorized. Since it is their last day before going home tomorrow, they should be offered with a banquet or something for surviving. He can't help smiling.

"Necktie." Shun reminded, jabbing a thumb on the necktie hooked on a hanger.

"Nah." He waved off as he slipped on his shoes. He pulled his mittens, pills and phone under the pillow and stuffed them on his pockets. "Too stuffy."

"If you say so." The other relented as they moved out.

Tsuna closed the door and swiped the card key to lock it. "Thanks for getting me, Shun."

"It was Yukihira's idea. He figured you’ll still be sleeping, so he told me to get you." Ibusaki answered, blue eyes glancing at him as they walked. "Still not talking then. You even stopped going to Marui's room."

"It wasn't intentional." He reasoned.

"We know. He already told us that Doujima-san has some tasks for you every night. We even saw you talking to the staffs twice." They entered the elevator.

The brunet smiled weakly and apologetic. He pressed 'G'. "Sorry, Shun."

"It's okay. We just wish the misunderstanding between the two of you gets resolved already. You're like peas in a pod, you know. Yukihira gets all dejected sometimes when he can't find you. When he sees you, he lits up before going depressed because he can't talk to you. You do the exact same thing."

He can't help laughing at that observation. "That is some observation."

"Others will say the same thing. Oh. I heard your group is still intact. Congratulations."

"It's nothing. My groupmates are just great."

"There's a rumor that your group share your food among yourselves."

"That is not a rumor." Tsuna negated. "We do share our food to each other. It's something like a picnic in the kitchen. Their words, not mine."

"I wonder who started that." Shun whistled as they stepped out.

He rolled his eyes and raised his hands. "Guilty as charged."

"It must be fun to be in a group with you, Tsuna." The other mused mirthfully as he went for the other Polar Star.

Tsuna doesn't know if he's going to smile or grimace at that. A year ago, everyone never wanted him in their group. A year ago, everyone says they lost because of him even though he didn't do anything wrong. Just because he's dame-Tsuna. The useless and dimwitted Sawada. But now, everyone doesn't mind him. Whether he makes mistakes and appeared clueless, they just endearingly smile at him. Everyone is patient with him.

He wondered if he's still in Namimori, will he be this free?

He thought back to what he talked about with Dino, Skull and Romario yesterday in the lobby. They talked about what happened after he left. Apparently, Nana and Reborn didn't say a thing about his disappearance. Even the kids didn't. Although according to Dino, they never fail to ask his welfare to Reborn. Dino swore it happened because he was present when they asked the hitman, three times in a row (Tsuna felt touched on that). It was Ieyasu who told Iemitsu that he was missing. When they asked Nana about it, his naive mother said he was on early vacation. (Typical-yet-not-so-typical Kaasan. Tsuna wondered how she became so great at playing oblivious.) So, they resorted to the tutor who didn't say a thing. The most usual answer of Reborn was it was Vongola's fault for not checking nor asking where the brunet was (“It was frustrating honestly.” Dino sighed. “But it’s Reborn. He’ll do anything to protect our decisions if it’s for our best.” Tsuna smiled on that.)

The Vongola associates (namely Varia, Millefiore, Arcobaleno, Chiavallone, Simoun and some of his guardians) went on wide search. Even CEDEF helped under Lal's orders. But it was fruitless. Dino speculated that Reborn told Shoichi and Spanner to erase every track he made; which was none since he used a different name at every inn he entered, and he was always wearing his jacket’s hood in order to not to be distinguished. He needs to say ‘thank you’ to those two though—for erasing any CCTV footage. Anyway, just like that, Xanxus declared that if Tsuna or any of the original family members wishes to assassinate Ieyasu, he will do it for free. The whole Varia seconded their boss. Skull said that not even Nono can control Xanxus now after they withdrew Tsuna's title from him. He was the one who defeated Xanxus, per say by the Varia leader, so he is the only one who will be followed by the Varia till his lifetime.

Simon haven't said anything though. But Dino had told him that they're helping to keep Namimori safe. (Tsuna knew Enma did that for his stead. And he struggled not to give a message of thanks. (He still did.)) The Arcobaleno were assured by Reborn that he's okay. That includes Millefiore. They didn't bother with Iemitsu and Nono. More of Reborn wanted them to worry their ass off as a revenge. He's just hiding right under their noses after all.

Dino, Skull and Romario promised him that they won't tell anybody that they saw him around Tootsuki. Not even Reborn. But they knew that the hitman will know even if they don't tell him. Tsuna could only wish them a well ‘goodbye’ and ask them to look after those remaining guardians of his. He didn't pry since he already has a hunch who they are.

Sighing for the nth time, Tsuna went to sit on one of the plush seats. He stared at the clock that just stroke four-pm. He perked up when he saw a familiar redhead, but he hurriedly looked away. They're still not talking to each other after all. Then his eyes caught the walking figure of Doujima who looks serious, giving them an ominous vibe in the lobby as his fellow students speculate another surprise test that made them dread.

"Before getting to the issue at hand, a brief comment." Doujima started, giving them a swift survey. "Currently, three hundred fifty-two have dropped out and the remaining student number is six hundred twenty-nine. It might seem cruel but the cooking profession isn't but a microcosmos. To survive as a chef, every single ability and readiness is necessary."

The students contemplated what the chef said next with their own experiences in the training camp.

"You must not lose your cool in unknown situation and keep an interaction with the ingredients. As a chef, you'll always be under pressure. You must resist the nights where you are tormented by anxiety and hesitation, and be able to deal with and conduct yourself on diverse situations. Living as a cook is similar to roaming about alone on the wilderness under a storm."

Brown eyes looked at Soma's way when he heard the word 'storm'. Imagining a sandstorm happening, the brunet admits that he won't be one of the people who is willing to go through such phenomenon to go to the safe side. But he can see the redhead doing so with a grin on his lips and a challenging fire in his eyes.

And he can't stop smiling at such tenacity of one Soma Yukihira.

"The more you master cooking, the more your feet tangles and your objective blur. There might be people that even lose their way back and get stuck on the summit by the time they notice. However," Another pause to survey their reaction. The brunet could almost see a wistfulness in those stern eyes, as if Doujima was reminiscing something in his mind. "I don't want you to forget that this place called Tootsuki... You had comrades that left their footprints with you on that same wilderness. Because it's that fact what will encourage you in your lonely travel. I wish you the best of lucks."

The students excitedly smiled at each other.

"Well then, let's proceed to the final program of the training camp."

He couldn't help snickering when some of the students started to wail in helplessness. It's obvious that they don't want more assignments, especially the surprise ones.

Like Tsuna's intuition had predicted (the brunet will forever deny that he's the one who deduced things on his journey in Tootsuki and after), the staffs opened the dining area of the hotel, with them aligned at the sides, welcoming them. It took the others by surprise and confusion.

"This is a message to the six hundred twenty-nine students that survived this far." Doujima stated before smiling at them with pride. "Congratulations on clearing all the assignments of this lodging training. The last program is a modest banquet to celebrate the completion of this training camp. Enjoy it to the fullest."

"Yes!"

"Now everyone to the table!" The chef gestured them to go in the dining area with an excited grin. "Starting now, we'll have you taste a full course made by the alumni!"

Tsuna watched as others go in. As the students in the lobby decreased, he decided to skip the banquet. He rather sleeps than eat. He stood up and was about to walk away when he felt a tap on his shoulder. He looked back to see a smiling usherette.

"May I escort you to the tables, Sir?" The usherette asked politely.

Tsuna pursed his lips and smiled back. He can't escape now, can he? "Please lead the way."

"You are Tsunayoshi Sawada, yes?" The staff queried as they walked in.

"Yes."

"My colleagues have specifically told us to make you eat." The lady said as they passed by many tables. Tsuna waved at some of his groupmates and bus-mates that called out his name. "We weren't oriented deeply with the information, but we are honestly grateful for your sacrifices."

His intuition hummed as he got the gist. "I'm the one they needed, Miss. I couldn't bear having you get involved in it because of me."

"But we are the ones accommodating you, Sawada-san." The lady smiled at him as she pulled a chair on one of the empty tables. "We should be the one protecting you, not the other way around. Regardless," She bowed. "Thank you."

Tsuna felt his heart flutter at the gratefulness. There is only one representative of all hotel staffs but he could feel the hundred thanks they wanted to convey to him. He sat on the chair and smiled in at the usherette in resignation. The lady giggled. "Thank you."

The brunet waited for his own food to be placed in front of him. He didn't feel practically lonely since some of the people around him in different tables greet and ask him if he's okay since he looked fresh out of bed. He only said small assurance that he's okay. Not that he didn't experience lack of sleep and hunger from years ago.

He was in a middle of a conversation with a bus-mate about a new anime when one waiter put an intricate Italian appetizer dish on the table. He gave a nod of thanks before excusing himself to the other, and was about to eat when he saw Shinomiya and the other alumni walking towards him.

"May we join you, Sawada?" Mizuhara asked in her usual monotonous tone. Tsuna nodded. "Thank you."

The brunet didn't mind the upperclassmen crowding in his table as he started to eat.

"How is it?" The Italian chef asked while having her own share of food.

"Delicious." He sincerely answered. "Every flavor is divine."

"Consider my offer, hm?" The sempai reminded, causing him to chuckle.

"The same answer, Sempai." He replied with a wary smile.

"If you don't want to be under her, you can always come to me." Inui grinned mischievously at him. "We'll conquer Japan with our shop."

"Or in Shino's." The French chef chimed in. Shinomiya smirked at the ladies. "I cannot wait to try making your casserole in my own shop, Sawada."

"What?!" The two exclaimed and started to demand explanation from the French chef of what he meant.

"Don't mind them, Sawada." Sekimori urged as the three bickered. "Eat your dinner. Enjoy it."

"Yes. Those three won't stop anytime soon." Donato informed and smiled at him. "Congratulations in surviving the training camp. Your group survived as one as well. Such camaraderie amidst a war for individual talents is remarkable."

"Indeed." Sekimori nodded, remembering the group of students who shared their food to each other after getting an approval from him.

"My groupmates are just amazing." He replied as he ate. "They discovered it now. I hope they carry on what they learned in this training camp."

"They will. This is an unforgettable experience after all." Donato chuckled, making them laugh too.

"I heard you went over the two-hundred plate mark yesterday, Sawada." He looked back to Doujima who was walking towards them. The manager put his hands on his chair and Mizuhara's. "If you were given enough guests, you might've reached Alice Nakiri's number."

"You should've seen how many people went for his station, Doujima-san." Shinomiya joined in, amusement is clearly written all over his face. "The staffs went for his egg burrito even after the time was up. Some said they couldn't get enough of it. It almost reached four-hundred."

"What is your secret?" Inui asked in return, wiggling her brows jokingly.

Tsuna smiled, thanking the waiter that replaced his empty plate with a Japanese main course dish. "Nothing at all, Inui-sempai. I just cook."

"Hmm. Well, I read your file and discovered that you do not have any background in cooking but you got accepted in Tootsuki." Donato lightly stated. "I'm wondering, how come you know how to cook?"

"Donato, it's obvious. He had to eat." Sekimori admonished.

Tsuna waved a hand to assure the chef that there are no worries. His background isn't a secret to anyone who asks. "My Kaasan is a housewife. I pretty much lived with her in my entire life until middle school. She loves to cook and share them to other people. I manage to know some of her recipes after my tutor taught me how to cook when he forced Kaasan to have a vacation with my siblings and housemates."

"So, your tutor is the one who taught you?"

"Yes. And he's the only adult who knows I cook when I went for Tootsuki. Other than him, three of my family members who had visited yesterday also discovered this fact."

"No one knows you can cook deliciously and make your own recipes?" Mizuhara questioned in disbelief. "That's some secrecy."

Tsuna almost blurted out that no one trusted him the kitchen because he was a dame, but he shot that down. He pulled a Reborn response instead. "No one asked."

Doujima laughed. "I suddenly want to see their reactions once they see you on TV or get a hold of your achievements in Tootsuki."

Tsuna smirked. "That will be lovely to see. I'll tell my tutor to take a picture if that comes. I'll send you a video if you want."

"A deal." They shook their hands.

"I suddenly feel sorry to Sawada's family." Sekimori sweatdropped at the sudden partnership.

"Sawada-san, a dessert." The waiter said as a plate of deliciously looking sweet is placed on his front, silencing everyone in the table.

Tsuna looked at the dessert, then his mind came back with Shun's observation. "Can you give it to the redhead in that table?" He pointed at where Soma was seated. "He needs it."

"Okay." The waiter nodded before going.

"Still not talking?" Doujima questioned. Tsuna nodded. "He was pretty upset."

“I did keep a secret from him. He has the right to feel upset.” He resigned.

"Oh? Yukihira?" Mizuhara verified. The brunet nodded.

"He just grinned widely when he accepted your dessert." Donato observed. "That's some happy smile."

Tsuna sighed in relief, resisting to look back himself. "That's good."

"You'll be okay." Inui assured.

He nodded. "Yeah."

Soma silently went out of the car. Erina didn't give him a look when he closed the door. He did bow in thanks before he started his journey towards Polar Star dorm. While walking, he stretched his arms skyward. Coincidentally, his eyes saw a familiar orange shooting somewhere at the corner of his eyes. He blinked and looked at the sky more to verify, but nothing was there.

He almost thought it was Tsuna since that kind of orange was what he saw in the brunet's forehead that one night. The redhead can't stop himself from doing a face. It's already three days. He wants to talk with Tsuna but... He can't find himself to do so. It's like he's still upset. He just wants the brunet to tell him something. Even an excuse for what was he doing in the forest. Or talk to him at least. A greeting will be fine.

Or maybe Tsuna was hurt with what he said. Should he apologize for saying those things? He was the one who accepted Tsuna in the first place. He made the brunet stay even if Tsuna wanted to get out of his way.

Whose fault is it anyway?

Damn it.

"I'm back." He announced as he opened the door of the mansion.

"Soma-kun!" He eyed Tadokoro who was rushing towards him in a panicked expression. "Was Tsuna-kun with you?"

"Ha? I thought he was in the bus." He said, frowning a little.

"He wasn't." Ibusaki answered from his spot on the stairs. "I never saw him in the lobby nor board any bus."

"I didn't see him in breakfast too." Sakaki inputted, brows furrowing in worry.

"D-Don't you think he was left there?" Yoshino stuttered, fearful.

Soma remembered that there's only one car available in the hotel when he and Nakiri was still there, and they used it to get to the academy. Color suddenly got drained from his face. "No way..."

Some scenarios crossed Yukihira's mind. All were dreading. The one he feared the most was Tsuna leaving Tootsuki without saying goodbye because of their fight. That Tsuna felt unwanted so he ran away again.

Soma dropped his bag and reached for his phone from his pocket. He was about to dial Tsuna's number when the door opened softly and a quiet announcement of arrival was heard. The brunet shuffled in with an exhausted sigh, mittens in one hand. His clothes were a little singed and he looked winded. Literally. As if he flew. Then the redhead remembered the zooming orange in the sky he noticed when he was walking towards the dorm. His hunch was right. That was Tsuna flying at max speed. And he flew from the hotel to the academy without stopping. No wonder he's tired. It's a great distance to cover!

"Tsuna-kun!" Tadokoro and Sakaki exclaimed in relief.

"Megumi-chan, Ryouko-chan." Tsuna acknowledged with a small smile. "Hi."

"Where were you?! We waited for you to get off the bus but we never saw you!" Yoshino yelled, trying to slap the brunet but the latter dodged skillfully.

"I was left behind after I got caught up with something." Tsuna laughed almost nervously. "Where's Marui? Did you put him to bed? He was pretty exhausted."

"He's fine." Ibusaki answered, standing up from his spot. "You're the one we were worried about. We thought you were gone."

"I wasn't really-"

Soma couldn't stop himself from pulling the brunet towards him for a hug. He buried his face on the other's shoulder. He hugged him so tight, taking all the warmth he could get. He knew from his heart that he was scared that the brunet will go away, and experience what Dino had—to not see Tsuna forever. With how good his friend in losing his pseudo-brother who searched the whole country, he knew he will never be able to find him at any cranny in Japan, except if the brunet shows himself to him willingly.

He tightened his hug when he felt the other hug him back. There was a pat on his shoulder, understanding and giving solace. He can hear Tsuna's 'there there' in his ear, assuring him that he was there and he's not dreaming. That he needs to calm his fears because the brunet won't do that to him.

"I will never go away, Soma." Tsuna stated in a clear voice. "Right now, my home is with you guys. I won't be anywhere aside from Polar Star, here in Tootsuki and the Yukihira diner. If ever I am needed somewhere far, you'll be the first ones to know that I need to leave. But I will always come back."

"Promise?" Yoshino asked, quiet and scared.

"Promise. And I swear that on Isshiki-sempai's fundoshi. Like does any of you wants his apron or fundoshi off?"

"No!" Their dorm mates answered in unison.

Tsuna laughed, still an arm on his shoulders. "Good. Now go. Unpack, unwind or just rest. Classes will start again tomorrow. We can talk again later."

The others slowly went back to their works while they still stood there, hugging each other.

"I'm sorry I scared you." Tsuna apologized quietly.

"I thought you went away." He murmured, sounding pained and exhausted.

"I woke up late, then the staffs talked to me. Also the securities. I got caught up with the alumni too. When I went for the parking lot, no buses nor cars were there. I had to fly to go back since I left most of my money in here and I don't want to commute. I'm sorry, Soma."

"Don't scare me like that."

"Never." They parted and Tsuna patted his head. "Good job surviving the training camp, Soma. You did well."

"Yeah. You too." Soma took a deep breath. "We're talking again, right?"

"A-Are you sure? I-I haven't told you anything." The brunet reluctantly asked.

"Just tell me what you're going to do next time. I don't care how stupid it is or how dangerous it is. In that way, I know where you are, what you're doing, and you'll really come back alright, instead of me worrying how to answer those questions myself."

Tsuna nodded. "Okay."

"Good." The redhead sighed and patted his own heart. "Hoo. I thought I was going to die there. You're really not good for my heart, Tsuna."

"Excuse me. You're also not good for my heart." The brunet harrumphed.

While the two banter again, the others, who were listening, grinned at each other, and high five-d with how well they acted.

"We have future for acting." Yoshino laughed before giving the auburn a thumbs-up. "Ibusaki was good with it too. Nice words."

"It was nothing." Ibusaki waved off, smiling when he remembered talking to Tsuna that morning before pushing him to the staffs.

"But it's good they're back again." Tadokoro sighed in relief.

"Yeah. The twins of Polar Star dorm are together again." Sakaki giggled.

"Hey, I like that. Twins of Polar Star dorm." Fumio mused while sitting in her chair by the lounge room.

'From: xxx-xxx-xxx

Subject: (none)

Message: We talked. Haven't said anything about the story and the compromise. Will do in a right time.'

Reborn can't help his smirk as he read the message. Leon transformed back after he let him go, and went for his hat. The hitman focused his attention on Ieyasu, Gokudera, Takeshi, and Ryohei who were having a trouble figuring out why their rings suddenly went back to their sealed state three days ago. He gazed at Chrome who proudly wore one of the unsealed twin mist rings on her right middle finger. Talbot made those for her and Mukuro after the representative battle. They were personally blessed by the spirit of Giotto and Daemon Spade (Mukuro almost stabbed the First generation mist when he suddenly appeared), approved by Kawahira, and belong to the twin mists of Tsuna solely.

The hitman smirked. He knew already what this means.

Chapter Text

Chapter Fifteen

Tsuna made a 'phew' sound as he entered the open threshold of the dorm. Damn. He's so exhausted. They really need to buy a vehicle that can transport them from the main buildings to the dorm. There is no way can he survive a year again with how hot summers have become each passing time.

Sighing again, he tugged his necktie (not his idea. Soma forced him to put it on) lower while navigating his way to the kitchen. When he got in, the Polar Star Maria was there, cooking something deliciously fragrant in the pan on the stove.

"Good afternoon, Fumio-san." He greeted while dropping his notebook on the island.

"Good noon, Sawada. Welcome back." The old lady greeted back, glancing at him from the food she's cooking. "Would you want some fried noodles?"

"Yes please." Tsuna replied. He took a glass from the rack and put water in it with the tap. "Thank you." Then he drank the water.

"You look really thirsty." The Maria mused, eyeing him as she put the noodles in two different plates.

"Summer is hot." He simply stated while putting water on two glasses and carried them to the island. "I'd love to strip off the polo shirt, but I don't want to be scolded by not wearing the proper uniform."

"You don't wear the necktie and Yukihira isn't wearing the proper winter clothes if I remember right." Fumio pointed as she pushed the plate to him. "But prefects nowadays are too laxed."

Tsuna cringed when he remembered Hibari. "You don't want to meet the prefect of my old school, Fumio-san. He hits those who violate the standard uniform."

"That's some prefect." She laughed while taking some noodles with her chopsticks. "You could probably bribe him with food."

"As if." He scoffed and ate some noodles. "Woah. Noodles after the end of classes is good." He exclaimed as he took more. He suddenly feels refreshed.

"Right?! Especially good when there's alcohol. Too bad you don't drink." The dorm Maria sighed in disappointment.

"Still underage, Fumio-san." Tsuna sweatdropped.

"So what do you plan on doing this weekend?" He looked up to the old lady and blinked cluelessly while slurping the noodles. "There's an event for the administrators causing some classes to be suspended. It results to a long weekend."

Tsuna swallowed his food before moving his shoulders up and down. "Where Soma goes, I go."

The lady cackled, delighted. "Do you know that you're being called the twins of Polar Star dorm?"

"Eh?!"

"Castor and Pollux, the Gemini." Fumio toothily grinned at him. "I wonder who is Castor and who is Pollux between you two. Who is the mortal and the immortal?"

"Tsuna!" A shout from the lobby that startled the brunet.

"Oh. Here comes Yukihira." She said as Soma came in with an excited grin.

"Here." Tsuna said as he pushed the plate towards the redhead. "What is it?"

"Let's go home! We haven't gone back to Yukihira's diner since we transferred. I mean we have to give the restaurant some maintenance and air every once in awhile, right?" The redhead said excitedly before slurping some noodles.

Tsuna hummed as he passed the glass of water to Yukihira. He can't shoot that excited grin down now, can he? "It's weekend, so sure."

Soma finished off the noodles, drank the water, and nodded. "Thanks for the food. Come on Tsuna! Pack up! We're going in fifteen!" Then he ran off.

Tsuna waved the other before taking the plates and glasses to wash them.

"Aren't you going to pack?" Isshiki asked as he entered the kitchen.

"I just have to get my overnight bag under the bed." He replied as he soaped up everything. "That won't take a while."

"Well, aren't you ready." Fumio hummed while picking at her teeth.

"It's a SOP." He simply stated as he put away the plates. "We'll never know what will happen."

"True. Anyway, go. I can hear Soma checking off his list." Isshiki chuckled.

Tsuna gave the two a two-finger salute as he took his notebook off the island then ran for his room. Opening his door, he put his notes on the drawer of his side table before taking his overnight bag out of the bed. Shouldering the duffel bag, he went out with one of his jackets in hand.

He was the first one by the door. Soma made a loud announcement of their departure before they went out. The redhead took his bag to let him put on his jacket. It was something Yukihira understood to be customary after living with the brunet for the first two weeks.

They went out of the walls of Tootsuki and walked to the nearest station. When they got their tickets, they immediately boarded the leaving train. Soma was already dancing on his balls. Tsuna had to make him sit and hold the other's upper uniform to keep him still.

When they got out, Soma was taking the sights like he was never home for years. Tsuna let him be. He was like that when they went back from the future-not-theirs-anymore. He was a step behind Yukihira when the brunet saw something unusual. He followed the building with his eyes as they pass by before shrugging and running to walk beside the excited redhead. When they were about to pass by the market, his intuition knocked on him. He stopped and went inside, causing Soma to do the same and follow him.

"What are we doing?" The redhead asked as they pick up some usual condiments.

"Shopping for ingredients. Don't you want to eat dinner? And you're the one cooking for us tonight." He replied. "Don't you think some people will notice that you're airing out Yukihira's diner? They'll come tinkering in even if it's for the meantime."

"Hmm..."

"It's better we have all the ingredients you need later, if ever, so you won't have to rush here."

"True. Okay. Let's go!"

Tsuna followed the redhead around, greeting those people who had recognized them. By the time they went out, they have bags full. They were going to their shopping district. Before they turned to a corner, he glanced back once to the building he noticed.

When they got inside the diner by the back door, Tsuna put the ingredients in the counter before starting to help Soma open the windows to air the house out. He left the redhead downstairs to open up the ones on the second floor. It wasn't that dirty, just a little dusty. When he got down, Soma was being swarmed by people, begging him to open their restaurant for a while. The brunet couldn't help himself from rolling his eyes and pat himself on the shoulder to give his intuition a silent 'good job'.

As people come in after the redhead, who gave in, Tsuna had the cook-wares and ingredients cleaned and ready for use. He's already on one of the waist apron that was 'named' on him (Soma embroidered it himself), and opened the other's knife case for easy access. Soma's job was to just use them for cooking while he assists.

"Tsuna, table three." The redhead said as he put plates on the counter.

"Aye sir." He nodded and took the dishes.

"T-Tsuna-kun!"

Tsuna looked at the girl who acknowledged him and smiled when he recognized her. "Mayumi-chan. Good to see you again."

"Good to see you too." Mayumi replied with a soft smile.

"Hello. Here's your order." He greeted the locals and put their dishes down.

"Ah. Tsuna-kun. You're also back." One of them greeted back. "Good, you two are here."

"Yeah. Anyway, enjoy your meal." He bid before going back to Soma.

Tsuna alternated from delivering the food, talking with the locals he knew, and happily bothering the redhead who only let out his tongue at him. Mayumi and Aki talked to him too, informing him of what was new in the district. Even the remaining locals chimed in the conversation.

"You mean that building near the station?" Tsuna asked before looking at Soma. "Did you smell anything tasty when we passed by? I certainly didn't."

"I was excited to go home?" Soma admitted sheepishly, causing them to laugh before it died down again.

A local sighed. "It's just how the time goes. The shopping district's already done for."

"Then I'll try to do something about it." Soma said, taking them by surprise.

Tsuna slipped away to the kitchen to start on the dishes.

"Something?" One of the men repeated.

"You said their main force is Karaage, right?" Soma asked sagely. "Then we'll make a new Karaage that will rival in this shopping district!"

"N-No way...! That's reckless, Soma-chan." The chairperson, Tomita Yuuya, exclaimed. Tsuna chuckled at the '-chan' after the redhead's name. "The difference in appeal and capital is obvious. The enemy is too strong...!" Tomita added on.

"It's better than doing nothing. And..." Brown eyes glanced back when he heard the sudden change of tone in Soma's voice. "Clients are greedy. If it's really a good thing, they'll definitely search for it. As part of Yukihira, I can't let this place become deserted."

Tsuna smiled as he continued to wash the dishes. 'He's up for a fight then.'

"Let's steal the clients back with a new Karaage and revive this shopping district!" Soma announced, earning a cry of 'Yes'. "You with me, Tsuna?"

"What? I'm quiet here." He said as he dried his hands with his waist apron.

"Hey. Are you leaving me alone in this?" The redhead pouted.

"When did I ever leave you alone in a fight?" Tsuna questioned back. The redhead smiled widely. "You have to gather forces though. You can't do this alone or just the two of us."

"I know."

"If you need a taste tester," Aki started off and pulled Mayumi who looked surprised. "Mayu here is free and doesn't have any clubs! And I'm sure she's a great taste tester!"

"A-Aki!"

Tsuna pursed his lips to not to laugh when Soma nodded. "I'm counting on you, Kurase."

"Welcome to the Karaage force, Mayumi-chan." The brunet greeted, causing the girl to agree without any argument as Aki beamed at him. Yeah. It was obvious that the girl has a crush on the redhead.

"Alright." Soma said as he leaned on the counter. "First, we need to check their version to get a hint for ours."

"Y-Yes." Mayumi nodded, unsure but determined.

"The question is, have you made any Karaage before, Soma-chan?" The brunet asked as he leaned on the counter, arms on the cold surface.

"I made them a few times." The redhead answered honestly before biting his lower lip. "But I need more knowledge about side dishes. Like what meat to use. Chicken, beef, pork or..."

Brown met yellow and they nodded at each other. The silent conversation made Mayumi confused. "E-Eh?"

"Good morning, Mito-san." Tsuna greeted, smiling.

"G-Good morning, Tsuna-san." The blondie greeted back, almost awkward and unsure.

The brunet waved a hand. "Don't be so formal, Mito-san. We're schoolmates. We even have some classes together."

"E-Eh?"

"Yup."

"Ah! Nikumi!" Soma greeted as he went down the stairs.

Tsuna watched as the three interacted. Obviously, Mayumi got intimidated with how Mito poised herself and dressed. He chuckled when Soma introduced the meat master with his nickname to her. He doesn't even know if he wants to sweat drop at their atmosphere.

With his intuition, he concluded that Mito thought that she's going to think of a new menu with Soma alone and didn't add up the brunet's presence or another person's help. Well, it was given since Mito didn't know he was living with the young Yukihira. Mayumi, on the other hand, is thinking about how adult-like Mito was, adding up the fact that Soma became matured after a few months in the academy. (Tsuna honestly didn't know about that since he's always with the redhead.) Then Soma is thinking of being a good middle man since the two girls just met each other.

Seriously.

Shrugging, Tsuna went out of the diner. "Coming or not? I'm gonna leave you three."

"Coming!" Mayumi and Soma shouted in unison.

Mayumi was out first and said an apology. "Sorry, Tsuna-kun."

"Don't leave us behind, Tsuna." The redhead chided as he and Mito went near them.

They walked side by side. Tsuna walked beside Mayumi who was starting to feel at ease in Mito's presence. He listened as the girl talked about her school. Soma chimes in every now and then, causing Mito to do so too.

When they got into the commercial district, Soma started to point out why their shopping district doesn't stand a chance. Tsuna followed them from behind, looking out for jackets he could buy.

"It's awfully hot, yet you're in your jacket, Tsuna-san." Mito commented.

Tsuna chuckled, a little relieved that she's talking to him. "It can't be helped. It's a kind of fashion sense for me."

"May I ask why Kurase-san is staring at me?" The blondie asked, a little irked.

"Maybe thinking how adult-like you are?" He hinted.

"Hmm."

"Don't worry about it. She's just curious." He waved off.

"Hey Tsuna, Nikumi! Here it is! The rumoured Karaage!" Soma shouted from afar.

"Come on." He urged for Mito to come. "Let's help, Soma. He's really into this."

"Okay." The girl nodded, determined.

Tsuna is within Soma's range when he noticed Chairman Tomita in suspicious disguise. Even Soma recognized the man. It caused the manager of the Karaage shop to notice them. The lady manager with a fan went on and on about the shop. He didn't really make his presence known but he did take a sample when they were offered.

Sawada hummed as he analyzed it. The coating was crispy yet light. Not hard on the teeth. The meat inside is tender too. Juicy and very flavorful. They must've used a special thing to make it that flavorful because not even the coating will make it that tasty to others.

"It's delicious..." Mayumi exclaimed in awe. "I wonder what they did to make it so tasty."

The manager laughed her irritating laugh that grates Tsuna's nerve. Heck. He could even tolerate Mukuro's and Daemon Spade's. "Well, you see, we used omi chicken, they're a super high-class breed that was raised with herbs. And the key factor is our secret soy bean sauce."

The brunet nodded at himself. He was right about that.

"We firmly rub the sauce, using grated apple as a base and dozen of seasonings as well on the chicken. And then we fry it while letting it come in contact with the air until it becomes crispy! Some people even call it the best Karaage on the Earth." The manager explained any more.

"Is it okay to tell us that? We're checking out the enemies as far as it goes." Soma asked, smirking a little.

The lady laughed again. "I don't mind at all. There's no way you can make it anyway." Tsuna's and Soma's eyes sharpened at that as the manager started to berate the chairperson. "You're weak shopping district with no competitive power and originality can only die out!"

"What do you think, Tsuna?" Soma asked loudly, grinning mischievously.

The brunet can't help smirking. Damn. Soma and Reborn are rubbing off him. "Meh. My Kaasan can make a better one." The manager halted her yammering and looked at him. "It doesn't give me that 'wow' feeling. It's like it's too common for me. Probably I had too much of this in the past or something."

"But she seems so confident that we can't top Mozuya's." The redhead jabbed.

Brown eyes slid to the manager who he knows is slowly blowing a fuse. "Really? Until their Karaage don't make me say 'wow', it can still be topped. Who knows, people might see my point."

"T-Tsuna-kun..." Mayumi nervously called.

The redhead chuckled with lilt. "So if we can make a Karaage more delicious than theirs in the shopping district. Hoo. It will be a disgrace for Mozuya's."

It was quick. But the brunet's intuition is much faster. Tsuna took the fan's slap on his hand and raised a brow at the manager with Soma.

"You seem to be great at talking big, boys." The manager threatened, with now opened eyes and looking at them with fury. "Don't get smart with me, you idiots. What could a bunch of brats like you can do?"

Tsuna gave a light laugh as he tightened his hold on the fan, making it crack a little. He's seriously getting a little pissed. She dared to hit Soma and even called them idiots. Reborn is the only one who could call him that these days. He's taking offense. "A lot actually."

The woman tried to take back her fan but he didn't let go.

"Now now, Tsuna." Soma patted his back. "You'll destroy her fan if you kept holding it like that."

"Hmm?" He let it go, taking the woman by surprise and making her take two steps back. He smiled at Soma. "We should go. We need to make that Karaage. I suddenly want to taste something with good flavor in it. Ah. I saw a good hoodie in there. I need to buy that first."

They started to walk away. But Tsuna looked back. He swore to the sky that he'll make that store lose its customers.

Chapter Text

Chapter Sixteen

"How was he?" Reborn asked as he took a sip on his espresso.

Dino and Skull looked at each other in contemplation.

They're inside a cafe, two towns over Namimori. Reborn invited them out after he got an information from his insects that the two met Tsuna. (More of after he made his wrath known to those who attacked his student. Revenge for a hitman is not killing those people who did him wrong. It's by making them fear every single day they live with the thought that Reborn is somewhere, watching their every move and one shot away.) It's not like Tsuna doesn't give occasional updates, but situational updates are different from physical and mental updates. Five months can change a person tremendously.

"Tsuna looks healthier." Dino answered, a smile on his lips. "More boyish too. His doe eyes were a little narrower too."

"His hair got longer." Skull added on. "Wilder. It's really like a lion's mane. His voice is a little deeper and moves just like you."

Reborn's brow quirked up.

"You know, graceful with a purpose. I bet he was cooking without really a mind on it. It's like he was so used to it that he's doing them unconsciously." Skull shrugged.

"His hands were warmer and firm." Dino flexed his hands, remembering those small hands that grasped his. "It's so different from the last time we met. He's more confident too. Like when we fought the Vindice and he found the cure? He's also more sociable and he doesn't hesitate to ask help. You should've seen how carefree he was when he greeted his customers."

"Hmm." Reborn hummed, storing that information away before asking another one. He needs to see that for himself. "What about his friend? Did you meet him?"

"Yukihira? He's like this ball of storm flames with red hair and yellow eyes. He was awesome in the kitchen too, making two hundred plates of egg soufflés in thirty minutes. And he has this sky thing in him. Like he can attract people too? But he's more of a storm." Dino answered.

"He was pretty down when we met him. They had a misunderstanding. But you'll like him. He believes all Tsuna's stories. When we said we'll introduce him to our craziness, he kinda recognizes something and asked if they were all branded with chaos. Which was you." Skull grinned. "I bet he'll make Tsuna's head ache. Who knows, he might make Tsuna agree with all your craziness in the future, Reborn. He looks ready for it."

Reborn smirked. "I can't wait to meet him then."

"Is Hibari still asking?" Dino queried. "I can tell him to stop."

"No. He stopped. He went back to his duties as a cloud after I told him something. Even Mukuro and Chrome. Lambo will be ecstatic with your news. He's maturing even though still loud and obnoxious."

"Well, if Tsuna will surprise us once he comes back, we'll do the same with him." Dino beamed.

Reborn smirked. He can't wait to see his student again.

Tsuna arranged the printed papers before carrying them to the kitchen. Soma smiled at him when he passed by to do the wrappings. He was tasked to do it after the redhead reminded him of the egg burritos he did on the buffet breakfast. Humming under his breath, he quickly wrapped some Karaage with lettuce and some herbs, before passing it to the customer, who bought one, with a smile.

With all honesty, he didn't do anything. He was just listening to those four planning things. He wasn't one to plan anyway. (It took him nights to come up with the cure and plan to defeat the Vindice.) He did help on recommending the food and advertising it to the teens and the passersby.

After their encounter with the manager, he just have to run around the district to calm himself up. Soma even assured him that he'll be the taste tester after they finalized their plan so he didn't worry of being unable to help. He even speculated that Soma got so motivated because he got a little pissed.

So when they finished the first batch, he was offered the first ever Sumire Karaage. And he commended Mito for the sauce. Really. He was able to moan at how good it was. It was probably because of the marinate sauce and the new elements in it like the lettuce and herbs. Regardless, the four were glad with his reaction.

"Tsuna! Tsuna! She's here!" Soma cheerfully announced.

The brunet perked up. "Mayumi-chan, can you take over for me?"

"Sure sure." The girl nodded, smiling at him. "Go for it. She deserves a good kicking in the pride."

He grinned in amusement. He let Soma take his hand and pulled him out of the kitchen. They were snickering like kids that were about to do a good prank. The two sneaked up behind the manager. They looked at each other and silently pointed at themselves. They narrowed their eyes before poising like they're going to pull out their swords from their left hips. Some locals, who can see them, snickered at their childishness but they didn't stop. In a mental count of one-two-three, they drew out their cards.

Tsuna had papers while Soma gave scissors. The redhead mutely cackled like a madman as he rolled his eyes on him fondly. The brunet gestured a hand to the manager that Soma answered with a grin.

"You don't have to be secretive, you can just line up normally." Soma started off, startling the manager to turn towards them.

Tsuna caught sight of the new fan in the lady's hand. "Oh. New fan, Soma. She has a new fan."

"Really? You really did break her fan." The redhead admonished lightly.

"Sorry, sorry." He apologized sheepishly.

"Since when were you planning this?" The manager asked, cutting off their conversation.

Soma hummed. "Since, three days ago...?"

"Yeah. Since we came back." Tsuna nodded, thinking when did they start to plan.

They relished the shock expression on the woman.

"I mean the hardware store provided the cooking utensils." The redhead started off.

"The Sumire's mark was made by the sheet metal worker." He added on.

"The ingredients came from the vegetable grocer and the butcher."

"The flyers and wrappings were printed by the printer."

"In other terms, everything was prepared by the shopping district overnight!" The redhead finished off. "Na, Mozuya Lady, you said this, right? A place with no competitive power and originality can die out," Soma inclined his head to the right, "was it?"

"It has it." Tsuna said, eyebrows raised in taunt.

"Our shopping district has power." Soma finished off.

"Shut up!" The lady raged. "I had enough of your insolent talks! So what if you have that Karaage?! Sooner or later you'll be crashed by Mozuya-"

"If you're going to say that much," The two looked at the middle school student who butted in their conversation. He probably heard the manager. "then eat some too, Auntie!"

Tsuna moved to the shop. "Mayumi-chan, one Karaage please."

"Here." The girl said while handing him a Karaage. "I'll need your payment later!"

He only laughed and gave the Karaage to Soma. "Here."

Soma grinned and presented the freshly made food. "They're right. You let us try some of your Karaage last time, right? Then we'll let you try ours too. It's done!"

They watched as the manager ate the Karaage and moaned at its taste. And Tsuna just can't resist and bowed a little. "Thank you for your patronage."

"It wasn't much!" Soma said as he removed his towel. "Come on, Tsuna. Back to work."

"You're the one who pulled me here."

"I know!" The redhead laughed.

Later that night, Tsuna hummed as he put a cut-to-bite-sized Karaage on a sauce before eating it with rice. He moaned a little, shoulders slumping to lax. Soma stared at him before shaking his head, eating his own share of meal.

He was just happy that everything was successful even though he didn't help much. Mayumi got entrusted to look after the shop by Soma since the chairman doesn't look like he could do it alone. Mito, or now he could call as Ikumi-chan, let him use her given name after they bonded on how to marinate a meat. It wasn't really that... Extravagant. He got intrigued with how she came up with the sauce for the Karaage. He could use it for later preferences.

"It's good, yeah?"

"I can eat it all week." The brunet answered as he put another on his mouth. "Yum."

"Then it's a good thing that you got agitated. We had to have a motivation."

"But aren't you motivated enough when she thought we're going to replicate their Karaage?"

"Why do we have to replicate it in the first place if we could just make something new right in front of her?" Soma snorted.

"I know. We're not even the ones who have this secret sauce."

"So right. But really, it's good that you got irate. Kurase was scared but she felt more inclined on helping us since she heard how hard the fan slapped on your hand. Nikumi too. No wonder she let you call her by her name."

"Very unlike someone who's spreading his nickname on her."

"It's fun to see her get all annoyed." The redhead shrugged. "We're going back to the academy tomorrow."

Tsuna nodded. "Yeah. But it's good Tootsuki doesn't have homework. All about on-hand research."

Soma grinned. "Heh. Someone hates homework."

The brunet wrinkled his nose in distaste. "Who doesn't? It's not like you don't hate it too. I bet your old man won't let you help cook for the diner if you didn't finish them first."

The redhead froze, made a thinking expression before his face went sour. "You're right. Good thing we don't have homework."

Tsuna grinned triumphantly before he sobered up. Soma saw this and frowned.

"What's wrong?"

"Soma," He started off, hesitant. The brunet bit his lower lip a little before steeling himself. "I'm part of a secret organization."

"Is this about the forest thing?" The redhead asked.

Tsuna nodded. "They were after me because I'm part of that organization. They got a hold of my location, pinpointed my room in the hotel and attacked me on our first night. In order to keep you all safe, I had to keep them at the forest, and be there at the forest so they won't have an idea of taking any of you as a hostage or something."

"Doujima-sempai knows?"

"He's the hotel manager. The security had to tell him what they see in the CCTV around the hotel."

The redhead bobbed his head in understanding. "About this organization, where are they?"

"I-It's one of the reasons why I have to run away, Soma." Tsuna saw how Soma's jaw clenched. "B-But it's alright. They were the ones who gave me my handsome tutor. His words, not mine."

Soma raised a brow. "Handsome? Really?"

"He's the one who said it! He'll beat me up if he gets a hold that I didn't include that. It's already a good thing that it's handsome, not gorgeous or exquisite or something." Tsuna grumbled.

"So what did Reborn teach you?"

His jaw unhinged. "How did you know his name?"

"Romario-san said the name after I asked if your family's brand of craziness has chaos all over it. I connected the dots and arrived to the conclusion that Reborn is the name of your tutor. So?"

"He teaches me my school works, but mostly self-defense." Tsuna stared at his rice as his mind gave him a mental image of Reborn. "He's really sadistic. Who would blow up his student with a low tuned bomb if I don't give a correct answer? He always shoots at me to run faster, for being a coward and for shrieking. He always throws his craziness at me. Sometimes he comes up with these confusing games and calls it family bonding.

"But you know, Reborn is the only one who looked at me proudly whenever I accomplish something. He always lifts me up when I'm on slumps, find a way to get me out of my down state and tells me things that will motivate me to do better. He's there when I need him. And even if I'm far, I couldn't forget his teachings."

"He must be really great."

Tsuna snorted. "He calls himself the greatest. And Dino? He was my sempai in Reborn's tutelage."

"He and Skull welcomed me to your family." Tsuna went red. It made Soma grin teasingly. "How cute. You told them I'm a family."

"Shut up."

Soma laughed.

"But it's true." Tsuna beamed softly. "You are a family to me, Soma. A brother in anything but blood. And I promise you with my dying will that I'll tell you everything after I talk to some people. I can't tell you anything about my organization, my position in there and who are part of my family for now without endangering you. And I don't want to see you get hurt."

Soma stared at him before nodding. "I'll wait. Even if it takes years."

"Thank you."

"So who's Skull?"

"He's-"

Somewhere in Tootsuki

"Ah wait." Satoshi Isshiki called out, making the announcer of final forty stop. "We forgot one more."

"But it's already settled, Isshiki." The first seat whined.

"Actually, no." Erina Nakiri seconded as she stared at the last paper on the folder in front of her. "We almost forgot one."

"Tsunayoshi Sawada..." The fifth seat read. "Amazing, he has good grades and the observers gave him recommendations."

"Hmm... He has a good answer on the self-evaluation Chef Donato did." The second seat nodded, sounding impressed. "He also made his group pass and initiated to share the food he makes after getting an approval. The example got followed by his groupmates."

Isshiki resisted to smile. "He also has no redo in every assignment."

"But in his background, he doesn't have any experience in cooking until he entered Tootsuki. You were the tester in his examination test, right, Erina?" The sixth seat questioned.

"Yes. He passed after making a garlic soup with potato and pouch egg." Erina answered confidently. "I heard he does his work in Chapelle-sensei's class alone."

"The same thing is stated on Mizuhara-sempai's evaluation on him on the first day of trial. And that was an unusual situation a chef could be in." The third seat stated.

"All in all, he qualifies as one of the forty." The ninth seat concluded.

"He's not in the list. We cannot exempt him out." The first seat finalized. "If he doesn't get in the forty and be with the next twenty, a lot will protest. We cannot have that."

"A crowd's favorite then." The eighth seat nodded. "We won't like it if the alumni suddenly demand explanation."

"Then we must select one to be removed."

"Soma Yukihira then?"

"No!" Isshiki and Erina said in unison, making both of them look at each other.

"Hmm? What is this, Erina? You were adamant on not putting Yukihira on the list just awhile ago."

"It's because where Soma-kun is, Tsunayoshi-kun is there." Isshiki explained patiently. "They cannot be separated. Tsunayoshi-kun swore that if ever Soma-kun get expelled, he'll quit the academy."

A silence.

"They are currently dubbed as the Polar Star dorm twins." Erina added on. "When one is there, the other is nearby. They also balance each other out. If we want minimum damage from Yukihira, we have to have Tsuna-kun within the vicinity."

"Okay then. It is settled." The first seat finalized. "Tsunayoshi Sawada will be on the list."

Erina and Isshiki looked at each other and had a silent understanding. They were able to back up each other. If Soma gets a hold that Tsuna is not part of the forty or the upcoming twenty, he will probably throw a tantrum. They can't have that. Nor see a put-off Tsuna. They can't imagine the brunet pouting, angry or unhappy. It wasn't Tsuna at all.

'From: xxx-xxx-xxx

Subject: (none)

Message: Told him the story and compromise. He understands. He also wants to meet you soon (his words, not mine). Thank you.

*attached photo*'

Reborn stared at the photo attached on the message. It was a selfie of the two. The redhead was clearly holding the phone, smiling like an idiot with a peace sign. He looked like a cat with his yellow eyes. Pretty mischievous too with the way he grinned at the camera. He looks like someone who is very free-spirited and have a devil-may-care attitude, but also a formidable opponent who will never stop attacking until he wins. A storm indeed.

Then there's Tsuna.

True to Dino's and Skull's words, the brunet looks healthier in the picture. His brown hair is longer, looking like a lion's mane and gives him this innocent yet cool look. His body looks fit too, as if he was keeping up his trainings. His slightly narrowed brown eyes were shining in happiness and playfulness, something that wasn't there before. His grin was really wide, like he was going to laugh at something, probably a joke the two shared before they took the picture.

The setting is in an empty diner with half-finished food on the table. Reborn wonders who cooked the food between the two. Maybe they both did. But he can't help himself from smirking, almost smiling softly. To even attach a photo as a 'thank you' gift, the two had the gall to give it to him.

Heedless, he typed a message before letting Leon go back to his lizard form and walked towards the house while singing 'I'll make a man out of you' of Mulan movie.

'To: xxx-xxx-xxx

Subject: Chaos.

Message: Good. And I'll be honored to meet him.'

Chapter Text

Chapter Seventeen

Tsuna hummed as he went out of the kitchen with a big bowl of nuts. He waved a hand on Ryouko and Yuki before offering them some. He didn't say anything about Shun's missing presence since he knew that guy went hunting for his woods again.

He sat on the couch and placed the bowl on the center table before taking one of the shoujo manga Megumi borrowed to him. Hey, it's the only thing he can read right now since he's not an avid book reader. Soma joined him and peered at the volume he's reading. He shared it with him while thinking of downloading a manga reader app on his phone.

He was quite absorbed in the story when he noticed someone walking with a spring on her steps. He looked up to see Megumi grinning happily. Even Ryouko and Yuki, who were sitting by the stairs, looked at the girl with curiosity.

"You sure are cheery today, Megumi-chan." Tsuna commented, knowing the girl wants to say something about it.

"Ehe!" The girl grinned more.

"Tadokoro, why are you grinning too much?" Soma noticed, taking some of the brunet's nuts right on his hand.

"There are some on the bowl." He pointed out.

"So?" The redhead asked, not even minding.

Megumi looked at Tsuna. Sawada blinked cluelessly before nodding encouragingly. "You see..." The girl took out a paper from her pocket then beamed at Soma. "In yesterday's cooking production class, I got an A." Then she pointed at the A mark.

"Wow!" Soma interjected, surprised.

"All alone? Congrats!" Tsuna praised.

Megumi nodded. "Well, my first A in high school division was thanks to Soma-kun. But this is the first time I got an A for myself. That's why I'm so happy."

"I see! Good for you!" Soma remarked positively.

Tsuna took the bowl from the table and offered it to Isshiki who came in the room. "Want some?"

"Oh. Thank you, Tsunayoshi-kun." The upperclassman expressed as he took some. The brunet beamed.

"Anyway, Megumi, you've been working really hard lately, you're all energetic in class too." Ryouko pointed out.

"Yes! I just feel great." The bluenette cheered.

Isshiki chuckled. "Then Tadokoro-chan, now that you're feeling good. Shall we do 'that'?"

Soma and Tsuna looked at each other in confusion of what 'that' means.

The two 'oh'-ed when Yuki and Ryouko ushered them to a room where a ping-pong table was. It's complete with the posts and net, the paddles, and the balls. Tsuna was given a paddle, and he seriously stared at it. He knew the mechanics and how to play. Like literal tennis playing but miniature like.

"Oh right." Yuki said, blinking. "You weren't there when we played in the hotel."

Tsuna nodded to confirm when Soma's yellow eyes darted to him. "Shun invited me but I was pretty tired that night, so I stayed in my room after I ate dinner."

"We can play." Yuki smiled and took his wrist.

"I don't know how to play, Yuki-chan." He smiled nervously as the girl put him on the other side of table before the orange haired girl went to the opposite side. "I'm not the athletic type."

"I could teach you!" Ryouko volunteered while walking towards him. She was a little sweaty since she and Soma played a round. "You just have to get it over the net. You have to hit the ball, let it bounce once on your side then to Yuki's side. You can hit it softly or smash it like in badminton or tennis. Your goal is to not let her hit the ball and make it fly pass her."

"Oh." Tsuna nodded, recalling the times he saw his classmates playing in their gym class.

"Here. Try serving a ball." Ryouko gave him a plastic ball.

Tsuna stared at the ball in his hand as the long-haired lady stepped back. He tried to recall the pose of his classmate that was pretty good at the game. He tossed the ball in the air then hit it hard enough to bounce once on his side before going over Yuki's. His opponent hit the ball back after bouncing once on her side. The brunet perked up and hit it back.

They started to play fast and hit hard. With his intuition as a guide, he never misses a spot where the ball could fly off. When Yuki was unable to hit back the ball, he blinked in shock before beaming brightly.

"Beginner's luck!" Yuki accused.

Tsuna laughed as he took the ball passed to him by the lady. "I know." Then he served.

"This is the first time I saw Tsuna-kun so proud and amazed." Ryouko noted, glancing at Soma who was smiling softly while watching his friend play.

"Yeah. Tsuna isn't really the athletic type. He doesn't know much about sports except for playing an embarrassing volleyball in middle school. This is his first time playing seriously." Soma informed as Tsuna hollered in happiness.

"O-Oh. I never knew that."

"He's not really privy, Sakaki. Try asking him things and he'll answer you nicely. I bet he'll ask you for a picture. He wants pictures for his mother and tutor to see."

Ryouko giggled at that. "He sure took his time."

"One of these days, he'll let you in his life." Soma grinned playfully.

In the end, Yuki won by three points. Tsuna didn't feel disappointed at all. He even asked Ryouko and Yuki to take a picture with him so he could brag it to his tutor. Soma wondered how will Reborn react when he sees all the pictures Tsuna had taken since they came back from the training camp.

They were pretty amazed when Megumi and Isshiki went on competition mode on table tennis. Tsuna didn't really join in the play's discussion among Soma, Yuki and Ryouko since he doesn't know that much. He did berate himself for being stupid at sports. Heedless, he watched the two players play like pros. He was sure Megumi was going to win if only Isshiki didn't blurt out something that took the others by shock and made him confused.

"You were chosen as a member of the Autumn Election." The upperclassman smashed the ball after he stated that.

The room went silent as the ball bounce off the table and to the ground.

"Megumi is in the Autumn Election?!" Yuki shouted. "Really?!"

"Yes." Their sempai replied with a smile.

Tsuna watched the ball roll off to the other side of the room before he looked up to ask. "What's the Autumn Election?"

The five looked at him before the four looked at his fellow transferee.

"Nakiri told me what it is." Soma shrugged.

"Well, Autumn Election is a Tootsuki Tradition which is a gourmet festival where a selected first years display their ability and compete with each other." Isshiki explained patiently. "For us students, it's our first chance to showcase our skills outside the school as we get to perform in front of food authorities. Like the academy's board of directors and investors that will gather in a single building."

"Oh." Tsuna uttered.

"According to Nakiri, the election started in the training camp, on the third day. Remember those people I thought were part of the administrators of the camp that will give us some challenge like making a rainbow out of milk? They were part of the election committee." Soma added on.

The others looked at each other, mouthing 'rainbow from milk' in confused looks.

"In other terms, the training camp you did wasn't just to eliminate students. It's true aim was to probe which students should be promoted." The upperclassman explained further. "Out of six hundred twenty-nine first years, over one hundred candidates were selected taking in account their results in the training camp and their future prospectus. Out of those, we, the Elite ten council, narrowed them down to forty. Inside those forty, there's Ibusaki-kun, Marui-kun and Soma-kun."

"Wait! Marui?" Yuki exclaimed, shock and unbelieving. "I understand Ibusaki being there but Marui?! Do you remember how he was in the training camp?!"

"He survived, Yuki-chan." Tsuna tried to placate, still digesting all the things he heard.

"Wow. To think that four Polar Star dorm student are participating." Ryouko gushed.

"Wait. What about Tsuna?" Soma asked after realizing the brunet's name is missing.

Tsuna put his hands up and waved them in a placating manner. "N-No need, Soma. I'm not good with cooking-"

"What not good? I heard Shinomiya-sempai praised your cooking, Inui-sempai wants to take over Japan with your skills and Mizuhara-sempai wants to have you in her shop! And Donato-sempai was really impressed with your dish and answer on his self-evaluation assignment, and Sekimori-sempai was nodding at how cool and calm you were in the kitchen while being pressured to make fifty to eighty meals! I'm not even gonna question Doujima-sempai if he calls you to manage the hotel with him. You were good with how you led your group to pass. And your group is the only one that stayed intact in the end of the training camp." Soma crossed his arms, frowning in annoyance. "No way you're not in it."

"Where the heck did you hear that even?" Tsuna questioned, grimacing.

"Everyone was talking about it, Tsuna-kun." Megumi replied. "Your groupmates were bragging how they were lucky to have you in their group. You share your food with them and always encourage them to do better and think better."

"Your humming was really helping them relax in the kitchen. They felt like the pressure in the class doesn't matter because they feel at home." Yuki added on.

"I don't think they'll like it if you weren't in the election, Tsuna-kun." Ryouko smiled nervously.

They all looked at Isshiki who chuckled. "He's part of the election, guys. I left him out to see Soma-kun's reaction."

"Don't do that, Sempai!" Soma protested, puffing his cheeks. "I almost thought I'm gonna have a heart attack."

"It was amusing though." Ryouko giggled.

"Anyway, congrats to us, Tsuna and Tadokoro. Let's do our best." Soma hyped up.

Tsuna sweat dropped as he watched Megumi get nervous. He focused his attention on Isshiki. "What about Yuki-chan and Ryouko-chan?"

"Good question, Tsunayoshi-kun." The sempai praised.

Yuuki fell silent.

"Yuki." Ryouko called out.

"Don't feel dejected yet, Yoshino-chan." The upperclassman consoled. "Sixty students can participate in the election. So there are twenty more to select in the future meetings. You and Sakaki-chan are part of the candidates fighting for the spots."

Tsuna felt relieved at that as the two cheered in happiness.

"Soma-kun," He gazed at Isshiki who called out for the redhead. "The Autumn Election is the first step to rising up. On the other hand, if you can't fully utilize this change, Tootsuki's top will drift away." The sempai smirked with challenge. "Are you still prepared to aim for the top?"

Soma smirked back. "Of course."

The brunet watched his four fellow first years talk about the Election. He looked down to the ping-pong ball then to Isshiki who gestured him to be quiet. Tsuna snickered before nodding.

Maa... Megumi won't hold it a grudge for losing one point, right?

Etsuya Eizan thought convincing the other instigator will make Soma Yukihira change his mind. But it didn't happen. It backfired even.

Mozuya's sales went low because of two teenagers that helped the Sumire shopping district boom its sales again. He thought the manager was just making an excuse, but when he saw those familiar names, he reconsidered. Soma Yukihira is doing big changes in the Academy, stirring its students with the challenge of defeating him. And Tsunayoshi Sawada, who is becoming popular in a positive way among the students for being a good example.

He knew the redhead can be hard to convince. And he got a taste of that just the other day. But to see the brunet doing the same thing, declining him, was something he couldn't take. The redhead can be considered since he has a background in cooking, but a no name? It's stupid.

"No?" He repeated.

The brunet looked at him with orange eyes. "No."

"You two are so alike. Twins indeed." He commented with a sardonic laugh.

"Ah. So that's why my Soma radar was being tingly the other day." The brunet mused, head inclining a little on the left. "You talked to Soma and offered him the same proposal, huh?"

Eizan smirked. "You're smart."

"Intuition." Sawada waved off like he was talking about the weather. "It's not that hard to decipher too since Soma told me about his adventure in here. He was so giddy and excited that I have to make him cook for me."

Eizan raised a brow and was about to open his mouth when he felt himself scorching under those orange eyes.

"Next time though, give me a heads up if you're going to take Soma so suddenly. I hate it when he suddenly disappears. It makes me paranoid. And I hate being angsty. It makes me want to burn something." Sawada hummed. Hummed, but the words sounded like he's threatening him.

Eizan slowly felt small while sitting in front of the brunet who looked so imposing and commanding. It's like he's facing a lion with long mane and glaring eyes that is waiting for a good moment to strike if he does one mistake.

"Ah. The proposal is sweet, but really, no. I wasn't tutored to follow anyone. My tutor will shot me if I do." Then the brunet turned around and walked for the door. "See you in the tournament, Alchemist-sempai. Hope you don't do stupid things." But he paused by the door. "Not that you'll do that since you're smart, right?"

Eizan watched the door close. He looked at his trembling hands before letting go the breath he was holding in. He removed his glasses and threw them on the table while cursing. Picking up his phone, he started to dial a number and pressed call.

"Yes, Boss Eizan?"

"Search everything about Tsunayoshi Sawada. I want every information, to the tiniest details. And I want them later."

"Yes, boss."

Eizan put his phone back on the table. "You have the audacity to threaten and insult me, huh?"

A few days later, the closing ceremony was held. The first semester report cards were handed out. And though everyone was filled with anticipation for summer vacation, the students of Tootsuki were waiting for the announcement of a tradition.

Tsuna stayed back in the sides as his fellow Polar Star dorm students rushed to the board, especially Yuki and Ryouko who want to see their names. He was joined in by Megumi who was jittery while Soma and Shun went closer to the board to see what group they are in. He bumped his shoulder on the blunette's, catching her attention.

"Feel proud, don't let those thoughts in your head deter you. You earned your spot." Tsuna encouraged.

Megumi wrinkled her nose on him. "It's not like you didn't berate yourself a few days ago."

"I'm honestly no good." He defended, before an idea struck him. "Do you wanna know a secret?"

"Ha?"

He lowered his face to her ear while she leaned closer to him and whispered. "In my childhood days up to my middle school, I was called Dame-Tsuna."

The bluenette leaned away with wide eyes. "No way."

"Yes way. I was really clumsy and not athletic. My schoolmates don't want me in any group. My teachers gave up on me. And I don't cook at all. Even my Kaasan doesn't trust me with the kitchen. So if you feel nervous at the Election, think of me who's just new here."

"Tsuna-kun."

He winked playfully. "Don't tell that to Soma yet. It's our secret for the meantime."

The lady giggled before nodding. "Okay."

"Tsuna-kun! We got in!" Yuki shouted from afar while hugging Ryouko who was beaming at him.

"That's good! Good job!" He shouted back.

"Everyone!" They all looked up to a smoking box.

Tsuna looked at Shun who went back to them. "Did you do that?"

"I will be your host for the Autumn Election! My name is Urara Kawashima! Congratulations to all those participating in the Election!" The lady, Tsuna remembered that hosted Soma and Ikumi's fight, greeted with a wink, causing the students to cheer and shout with enthusiasm.

"If I did, that woman should've been cooked, dried, black or dead already." The auburn answered before smacking him behind the head. "And I don't smoke human."

"Ow." He pouted. "Megumi-chan, Shun is being mean."

"Ibusaki-kun." Megumi playfully chided causing Ryouko and Yuki, who joined them just awhile ago, to laugh.

The brunet found himself being tucked in Soma's arm and given noogies by Shun and the redhead. "You're being giddy, Tsuna!" The redhead laughed.

"Megumi-chan! Ryouko-chan! Yuki-chan! Help!"

They all rolled their eyes on him before laughing.

"You'll receive an official notification later on, but allow me to explain the competition format in a nutshell." They all looked at Kawashima who started to continue her announcement. "It would be obvious if you look at the board. That the sixty chosen people are divided into two blocks, A and B. For the Election, we'll first have a preliminary on each block. Those who get the highest rank on each block will earn the right to participate in the tournament."

The students cheered.

"Then, I'll give a message from Eizan-sempai from the executive committee." The emcee said while looking down at a paper.

Tsuna's and Soma's eyes glinted. They looked at each other before giving their attention to the emcee.

"For the Election, many VIPs, that is leaders of the culinary world will come as guests. It's a perfect chance to demonstrate your skills. However, shall you display an unsightly dish, your future as a cook might as will be over. Well, do the best you can." The emcee looked up and smiled. "That's it!"

The crowd went wild.

Soma let go of Tsuna and talked with the Aldini brothers who came by. The brunet left them be after greeting Isami and sat on a bench. The board is still crowded so he'll wait up for those people to disperse. He turned to his side when someone sat at the end of the bench.

"Oh. Is the seat taken?" A girl with white hair, white skin and red eyes asked cheerily. Tsuna blinked. "Is there something on my face?"

"O-Oh no. You just remind me of a certain acquaintance." The brunet smiled a little, being reminded of Byakuran who turned for a new leaf after receiving his memories from the future. "Please sit, the bench is free for everyone." He looked back to the slouching individual at the back. "You can lean on the rest if you want."

The teen stared at him with his black rimmed eyes before nodding. He did lean.

"Who might this acquaintance be?" The lady asked.

"He's an unusual albino." Tsuna hummed as he glanced at the sky. "Your only difference is he has purple eyes. But yours are unique too."

"I know right!" The girl laughed. "I like being unique."

Tsuna can't help the genuine smile from gracing his lips. "You don't happen to love sweet, do you?"

"I do."

"Then I need to call him. I must have found your long lost brother or something."

"Oh my." The girl giggled. "You're funny."

"Tsuna! Why did you- Oh. Hey Alice!" They looked at Soma who neared them. "You know each other?"

"No." The three of them answered.

"Well, Tsuna, she is Alice Nakiri, Erina Nakiri's cousin." Soma introduced enthusiastically.

"A pleasure to meet you." Alice greeted. "Alice is fine with me."

"And this is Tsunayoshi Sawada. Tsuna is fine with him too!" Soma gestured to him like he was being showcased.

"Likewise... Alice-chan?" He asked with an incline of his head to the right.

"Oh my God! You're so cute!" The brunet found himself being hugged to death. "I can just keep you! And the -chan! Ryou! He's much cuter than you!"

"I don't call you with -chan, Milady."

"Hey hey! You're not taking my Tsuna!" Sawada got pulled to stand by the redhead who's puffing his right cheek in ire. "He's with me."

Tsuna slipped away and stood beside Alice's friend who's name is Ryou. "I should slick away?"

"I think you should."

"Then I'll be going for the board..."

"Ryou Kurokiba, Tsuna-san." The noiret nodded.

"Tsuna is fine, Kurokiba-san." He waved off before slipping away from the two who started to discuss their anticipating match in the tournament after Alice explained why Erina isn't participating. "See you later!"

Tsuna pouted when the people didn't dissipate. He put his hands on his waist and was actually deciding to wait if he didn't remember his phone. Like a bulb lighting up, he took his phone out and went for the camera. He was going to click when he felt a presence behind him. Almost looming with how tall the person is. He looked back and saw a dark guy with white hair.

Tsuna blinked when he smelled cinnamon. Then he stared at the roll of cinnamon in the other's hand. He pursed his lips before lowering his hand that holds the phone.

"Can you help me?" He asked.

The guy looked down at him. Damn. He's tall. Somewhere between Hibari and Ryohei. "Sure."

"You can see the board, right? Can you see where Tsunayoshi Sawada is written in the blocks?"

"That's your name?"

"Yup. Can't see it though. Too short to see anything." He grumbled at the end.

"I know someone shorter than you." The guy related. "She's pretty heavy too."

Tsuna chuckled. "I won't tell her that."

He earned a small smile. "Ah. There. Block B."

He wrinkled his nose. "Thanks. Nice cinnamon too. Have you tried anything other than that? I can smell other spices on you."

"Tried other things, but I like this." The teen fondly said before quirking a brow on him. "Your nose is sensitive too?"

"On beer, yes." Tsuna stepped to the side before stepping backwards to stand beside the other. "My old man was pretty stupid to make me drink beer when I was a kid. I became sensitive to it."

"So you can't drink beer?" He queried again.

Tsuna blinked. Well, in terms of intuition... "More of I can't get drunk."

The other hummed. "That's unusual."

"I know right." He shrugged before turning a little when he heard Shun calling out for him. "I need to go. See you in the Election." Then he walked away.

"Hayama." Tsuna looked back to the guy. "Akira Hayama." The guy said.

"Tsuna is fine with me." He waved. "Bye bye Hayama-san."

He ran back to Shun who pointed his chin to Soma who was chatting with the Aldini brothers and Ikumi. They waited a little for the others. When the six of them gathered, they went back to the dorm.

Chapter Text

Chapter Eighteen

'From: Reborn

Subject: Chaos.

Message: Who's Etsuya Eizan in there?'

Tsuna frowned at Reborn's message to him. Eizan was the one who ordered his colleagues to get him from his class three days ago. It was the same in Soma's case. Only difference was the redhead was walking away from the dorm that time.

However, how does Reborn know that name?

'To: Reborn

Subject: (none)

Message: Upperclassman. Member of an executive committee.'

"Tsuna? Something wrong?"

He looked up to Soma and Isshiki who was watching him. He smiled as he climbed the porch and walked in. "No. Nothing. Just Reborn's message."

"Oh. The tutor, right?" Isshiki verified as they moved inside.

Tsuna grimaced before smiling. "Yes. He'll be pretty delighted if he get a hold of the information that I'm spreading his name."

"I want to meet him." The upperclassman responded positively.

"I'll pass him that enthusiasm, Isshiki-sempai." Tsuna assured.

"Anyway, Isshiki-sempai, what kind of a person is Eizan-sempai in the Elite ten?" Soma asked, glancing at the brunet who beamed at him.

"Eizan-kun?" He parroted. Tsuna and Soma nodded. "Hmmm... He's a yankee."

"A yankee?" The two said together.

"He had a famous armed group since his days in the middle school section. He forces those who loses to him to obey, and so he's kept on increasing in followers. By the time he entered high school, he already has one of the influential groups in the academy." The upperclassman elaborated. "However, his abilities are sound and solid. He's the exact definition of an intellectual-type Yakuza, and he's merciless to those who go against him."

Tsuna nodded. He thought of Gokudera who is a genius delinquent and very in love with UMAs and Science. But in Tootsuki, Eizan is more on business sector. More prominent there to the point that he can close down small businesses and shut down those who fight him.

"But why are you asking about him? The two of you even." Isshiki asked, curious and concerned.

The two looked at each other and made identical grins.

"No real reason. It's nothing important." Soma replied with a shrug.

"I heard the emcee mention his name awhile ago." Tsuna said, fingering his phone. "Go ahead to the dining area. I need to put my things in my room first."

"Hurry up!" Soma shouted when he ran for his room.

Tsuna took out his phone and started to compose a message to Reborn while stashing his mittens and pills under his pillow. He checked if the window is still locked like how he left it and went back to texting.

'To: Reborn

Subject: (none)

Message: Eizan-sempai here is a yankee with an influential group of followers. He's known in the business sector. Maybe into shady business.'

His phone vibrated.

'From: Reborn

Subject: Chaos.

Message: Trying to find some info about you. Hibari is on it.'

Tsuna's hand tightened around the phone when he read the reply.

'To: Reborn

Subject: (none)

Message: He asked me to work under him. Declined. Not follower material after you taught me.'

He moved out and closed the door behind him. He was walking for the noisy dining area when the machine vibrated again.

'From: Reborn

Subject: Chaos.

Message: Good. Find a way to beat him.'

'To: Reborn

Subject: (none)

Message: Either me or Soma.'

He put his phone to his pocket and was entering the dining room when a hand enclosed his wrist and he got pulled inside. Soma has this excited expression in him that was so contagious when Tsuna registered who pulled him in. With how excited the redhead is, he couldn't help smiling. He sighed and nodded.

"What is it?" He asked.

"My old man is here. Wanna meet him?" The redhead responded.

Tsuna pulled his wrist off and took Soma's shoulders from the back then pushed him. "Is that even worth asking? Lead the way, Soma-chan."

"Pops! I want you to meet someone!" The redhead called out loudly against the chatter in the room as he led the way.

"Oh?" A fruity, somewhere between young and middle aged (almost like Reborn in his adult form in the representative battle, except for the baritone voice), voice uttered, interested.

Soma stopped walking and reached back for the brunet's wrist. Tsuna got pulled to stand beside the redhead. He, then, stared at the man who's sitting on one of their dining's chairs. He has this neck-length combed back maroon hair that was so shaggy, a small beard from the sideburns to the chin, yellow eyes and some laugh lines. He's young too, fit and looked so... Cool with how he sat there.

Tsuna glanced at Soma and concluded that the man's genes are pretty strong. Soma looked exactly like him. He bet the man has the same competitive side, cheeky personality and way of cooking of his son. Creative and authentic in every way.

"Oyaji, this is Tsunayoshi Sawada. You can call him Tsuna." Then Tsuna flushed a little at the next line the redhead said. "He's my best friend."

"N-Nice to meet you." Tsuna greeted politely, still flustered with Soma's introduction.

"Tsuna, this is Jouichiro Saiba, my oyaji."

"You're the one who was staying with Soma five months ago?" The man clarified; brows raised. "The hazard controller."

"Hey!"

Tsuna laughed. "Yes, Saiba-san. Can't have this one running around without anyone looking after him."

"I hope he treats you well."

Tsuna and Soma looked at each other and gave an identical grin to the chef.

"Anyway, let's go eat Oyaji's food. Let's see if he can make you do some foodgasm." Soma said as he dragged off Tsuna to the other table where the food was.

"What do you think?" Fumio asked to Jouichiro as they watched the redhead dote on the brunet. "They looked so identical awhile ago."

"Some of the locals said the kid is kind and amazingly friendly." He commented, recalling the things his friends in the shopping district told him. "But the way he got flustered when Soma said he's his best friend means a lot of things."

"Socially inept?"

"Probably. He also looks secretive."

"He is. He doesn't talk much about his life, but he listens to others. He can make Ibusaki-" Pointed a finger to the auburn-haired teen. "-talk as much as he could with Soma."

"They seem really close."

"So close that Tsunayoshi-kun goes to Soma-kun when he needs the bathroom in the middle of the night." Isshiki joined in as the group of teens laughed at their side about something Marui said. "Even if he's near the bathroom, he goes to Soma. He also keeps him trouble-free, eat dinner and keep still. Basically, like a brother."

Jouichiro watched as the brunet opened his mouth to eat the food Soma was giving to him while they looked at his phone. "What's more?"

"You should probably ask your son. He has a lot to say about his best friend. Don't get surprised if they share the same bed." Fumio grinned when the Ashura looked at her with wide eyes. "You'll get what I mean when you hear it from him."

"You'll see the wonders of the Polar Star dorm Gemini." Isshiki chuckled.

"Oyaji! Tsuna ate the snake dish you made!" Soma shouted from their side, laughing his ass off while the brunet looked confusedly at his dorm mates who had their jaws dropped.

"What?! I'm eating." Sawada said defensively.

"Don't you think that's horrible?" Marui queried.

"It's okay. I tasted more horrible things than this." The brunet responded before he stared at the snake dish when something downed on him. "I bet he'll be so proud I'm practicing to eat things like this."

Soma laughed some more while the others cringed and smiled amusingly, understanding who he meant.

Jouichiro stood up and walked near them. "Have you tried anything horrible?"

"Like a purple soda that emits purple fumes? Or porridge that has ketchup on it? A fruit salad with fish and margarine on it? Yeah. I get that a lot. There's this..." He looked at the others. "Anyway, just things you don't want to know." Tsuna answered, already grimacing at the memories. "I'm never gonna make him do a contest like that again. I almost died that I don't mind eating all the things you can come up with, Soma."

"Oyaji can make you more of that."

Jouichiro can't help laughing. The kid is interesting.

When the party was over and everything was cleaned, Jouichiro went out of the room that was lend to him and ascended the stairs. He stopped in front of his old room and knocked. It took seconds before the door opened and Soma peered from the inside, sleepy and eyes closed.

"Tsuna? Bathroom?" The redhead asked like it was automatic.

"Are you that close that you take him to the bathroom every night?" He asked, amused.

Soma opened his eyes and stared at him. "What are you doing here, Dad?"

"I wanna talk to you about Tsuna. Do you mind?"

A bright smile graced his son's lips. "No. Come in."

Jouichiro walked in after his son and closed the door behind him. The room is still as it is, but with Soma's personal touch. He smiled when he saw the burn mark on the floor. He took the chair from the table, put it by the window and sat on it, an arm over the chair's rest with his other leg over his thigh, forming a head of 'four' with them.

"So about Tsuna," He started off. "How did you meet him?"

Jouichiro listened to his son talk about the brunet. The redhead was so animated and enthusiastic. He even looked so fond, amazed and relaxed at the same time. It was pretty surprising when he sees different emotions on Soma when he talked about a forest incident where he walked in on Tsuna fighting some people. And the older Yukihira can't help himself from smiling.

He can now see why the two are being called Twins of the Polar Star dorm. Although they're so different from each other, they have some certain similar qualities. The way they think, mannerism and actions are alike. He can even bet that the two can make the same dish even if they're miles apart. Their personalities contrast a lot too. Whenever they're in a normal situation, Soma is playful, cheeky, always impulsive and very carefree while Tsuna is calm and collected, keeps Soma in check and goes along with whatever his son do as long as it doesn't hurt the other. But when agitated, they flip. Soma is the one who tries to calm Tsuna because the latter will blow up.

Protective, possessive and ferocious, yet understanding, accepting and compassionate, paired up with free-spirit, impulsive and cocky, yet selfless, optimistic and considerate. Yes. That is Tsunayoshi Sawada and Soma Yukihira.

He wonders who's Castor and Pollux between the two.

"Wait. You cook alternatively in every meal?" He verified.

"Yup. I couldn't just dump him all the cooking. So we switch every meal."

"Does he have any specialties or some sort?"

"Nope. But he knows a lot of foreign recipes. He's pretty good in Italian and French since most of the people in his family came from Europe. And he never says anything when he eats. The one time he said wow was when we made him taste the Karaage roll we made. In other food? Nah. He won't even bat an eyelash on mine, but when I do eat his, it's amazing."

He kept his eyes on his animated son. He just praised someone. "Is it?"

"Yeah. Give him a theme of spring, he won't hesitate to give you a dish with spring taste. But it always has this kind of warm feeling in it. Like you're being covered in a protective blanket and being lulled to be comfortable as you can get. You can't get enough of it with just a single spoon so you want to take everything of it. It's like... It's like..." Soma blinked when he got the thing he was searching. "It's like Tsuna in general."

"Oi."

"It's not that! Geez! I mean when you meet Tsuna, you thought he's just a normal person. But when you get to know him, you'll see how caring he is even if he barely knows you, thoughtful, forgiving, understanding and accepting because he will never say anything whenever you complain to him, and super protective because he never likes it when someone is being bullied or I get hurt or something. He knows when to stop you or when to let you go. He will do the best thing in a situation that will benefit you instead of him.

"When you see him, you just wanna stand beside him. When he talks, you want to listen attentively. Then if you feel anything excited, angry, you can run to him. You want to hide, stay with him. You want to be alone, just tell him and he'll be quiet beside you until you talk to him. He also gives the best hugs and warmest smiles that spell out that everything will be fine and shit won't hit the fan anytime soon."

Jouichiro inspected his son. "What does that conclude you?"

"Tsuna is home, Dad." Soma stated, looking down at his fingers before he looked up to him. "Wherever he goes, he'll be home. And I want to stay beside him as much as possible."

"Even in the same bed? I heard that you two share a bed." He asked.

His son stared at him, wondering how the heck did he knew that, before shrugging. "Tsuna didn't adjust to the dorm really well. He didn't sleep nicely for two weeks. And he didn't tell me after all the checking he did on my situation to adjust properly since I'm never been away from the house. So we kinda had this arrangement to sleep alternatively on our rooms. And there are no extra futons so we share the same bed. It took awhile but he adjusted well enough because he felt at home after realizing that I'm with him in here."

"The bathroom?"

"Ah. He's scared of ghosts. He will never go there without me. He even runs up here just to get me. I like to tease him about it since he never let me scrub his back."

Saiba's brows furrowed a little. "Why is that?"

"He never said anything about it and I never asked. Whenever I offer, he goes stiff and declines. Maybe it's connected to the organization thing."

"Soma." He called as he analyzes the thoughts that's entering his mind.

"Hmm?"

"I know this is going to be harsh but you need to be ready when he suddenly needs to go." He watched his son look down to the bed. "With the background he has, he won't be able to stay with you until you graduate."

"I know." A whisper. "But I also know he'll come back. He always does. He said he'll never leave without telling me and the guys. And I can't see him breaking that promise." Soma beamed. "Tsuna is so compassionate that it hurts to leave him alone anywhere."

"I saw you feeding him."

"He was busy replying Reborn about something."

"Reborn?"

"His tutor. Tsuna never says anything about his dad, so I'll assume that Reborn is his father figure. He really motivates Tsuna to do things. He's also the one who taught Tsuna how to cook."

Jouichiro nodded, head echoing the name 'Reborn' in his mind, like he heard it somewhere. "I'm still not settled with the fact that you share a bed."

"You're still into that?!"

"Ninety-eight." He mumbled as he pushed himself up before going down, then repeated the same movement. "Ninety-nine-"

"You're up early."

"Hie!" Then he fell down on his face. He mumbled a muffled 'ow' before he sat up and rubbed his nose as he looked up to see Saiba sitting on the steps of the front porch. "S-Saiba-san. Good morning."

"Good morning." The man nodded with a small smile. "Care to cook for me, Tsuna? I'm up for a breakfast."

Tsuna looked up to the sky before nodding and standing up. It's still early. He could work up his sit ups later or after the jog. "Sure, Saiba-san. What would you like?"

"Anything that can make me feel energized for the day."

Tsuna blinked and thought of the dish he needs to make to energize the man as they walked inside the mansion. He surveyed his mind internally as his eyes take on some hints. Well, everything can be used as a breakfast ingredient. You just have to know how to do it. Then his eyes landed on those sweet potatoes Isshiki put on the island the day before.

Like any other day he cooks, Tsuna hummed a song that resounded in his mind that very morning he woke up. He took out a skillet and put it over a fire before taking out a pot, filled it up with half water then put it a stove between the frying pan. Taking seven of the sweet potatoes, he washed them up nicely before putting four on the pot and three on the chopping board. He closed the pot and started to work on potatoes he needs to peel and cut into bite size pieces. He, then, reached out for a white potato and peeled it with ease before cutting them into bite size.

He took some garlic and minced them, then snatched red and green peppers to chop. He poured a small amount of olive oil on the pan and let it heat as he mixed five eggs in a bowl. He turned off the heat on the pot as he let the cut potatoes jump on the skillet with a pinch of sugar, salt and pepper in their way. After putting a lid on the frying pan to let the potatoes cook, he took care of the sweet potatoes he boiled.

He took the pot to the sink as he hummed a new song, something he heard from Nana whenever he tries to do his assignment in the dining area of the house. He drained the water off from the pot, put a cold one to stop the cooking process of the potatoes before starting to easily peel the softened skins. He put them on a big bowl he readied. Using a masher, he started to mash the potatoes. He put the masher on the pot after using it to clean later before adding three eggs, grated cheese, flour, salt and pepper, and a pinch of sugar. He mixed them before setting them aside to put another pan on the stove with a small amount of oil, and opened the lid on the other skillet.

He stirred the cooked potatoes as he added the bell peppers and the eggs. He stirred them before leaving them to cook again and focused on the boiled potatoes. After deeming the oil temperature is good, he took a spatula, got a good amount of batter from the bowl and slowly put it on the pan. He flattened the batter before putting another one on the available side. He reached out for the knob on the other side to turn off the fire of the other skillet before taking a plate from the racks. He put some of the fried sweet potatoes on the plate and carried them to the waiting man.

"Sweet potato with eggs." He said as he slid a small bowl of grated cheese beside the plate and a fork on the other right side. "Pancakes in fifty."

"Thanks for the food." The chef mumbled as if he was pulled out of daze.

Tsuna went back to his pancakes and turned them for the other side to cook. Taking another plate, he stacked there the cooked pancakes and slid them again in front of the man. He put some new pair on the pan before getting a glass from the rack to get some orange juice from the fridge. He carefully put that on the man's left before finishing off the other batch. After stacking the pancakes and putting the remaining sweet potato and eggs on another dish, he put it on the island and put lids on them.

"Those are...?" The man asked.

"Soma's. It's my time to cook for the two of us." He answered as he turned for the cooking equipments he used.

"Of so I heard." Saiba noted. "So what's the Vongola Decimo's brother doing here in Tootsuki?"

Tsuna almost laughed as he washed the pot. "Damn. At least there's one of you who got it right. But worry not, Saiba-san. I'm just here to hide while cooking my hands out."

"No wonder the name Reborn sounds familiar."

"I bet he's a legendary or something." He hummed as he soaped up the spatula and the masher.

"What do you plan about Soma?"

Tsuna almost dropped the skillet he was holding. "Ha?"

"You know, mafia and the likes."

He winced as he continued to rinse the things he used. It was a good thing he had his back turned on the man. Because honestly, he can't bare look at the man's expression right now if it's Soma they're talking about. "I honestly want him to stay away from the mafia. I can't get away since my roots are too deep, but I'm not pulling him with me even if I have to pull those roots out of the ground to keep him safe."

"Why are you attached to my son, Tsunayoshi?" The man asked, seriousness is dripping from his tone.

Tsuna paused a little before he continued to put away everything. "Soma is the first person who didn't question me why I ran away from home, why I needed to buy a new phone or why I couldn't sleep in those motels. It didn't matter to him if I killed someone or I have mad dogs chasing after me. And up until now, he still does. I'm thankful for that because I'm finally finding myself again, ever since I started to talk to him about my life before Tootsuki.

"When I ran away from Namimori, I was lost, Saiba-san. I didn't know what to do because all I wanted was to get away. I stayed from inns to motels for three nights, with anxiety and paranoia eating me with the thoughts of being found and brought back to the town that houses most of the people who doesn't belong to me. To see the bond I tried so hard to form for a year felts so broken after someone claimed it from me.

"Maybe I should be thanking Senzaemon-san for recommending me Tootsuki when he saw potential in me. But it was Soma who helped me shape up again, accept myself by just being there, and help me slowly feel that I belong somewhere. That I matter and that I can be free again. That I can feel emotions I want to feel and have something I can protect as he protects me back." Tsuna took the towel from the rack and dried his hands. "In short, I feel at home with Soma."

"Hmmm. Funny, he said the same thing about you." Saiba chuckled while munching on some pancakes.

Tsuna flushed as he put the towel back. "I'm a teen raised by one parent, Saiba-san. My father doesn't exist in my life. So I never know what a complete family is from the start of my childhood. My home is Kaasan when I was in town. Now that I'm out, I found Soma."

"What about Reborn?" The man asked before taking a sip from the juice.

The brunet blinked. "Well, he can pass on as one if given the circumstances. He does give a father vibes. But too sadistic sometimes. He shoots me for just breathing that one time."

The chef guffawed. "I cannot imagine that baby doing that."

"Oh. He's growing up nicely the last time we were together. Though I don't really know since I've never seen him for six months. If I give him something to be proud of, he'll probably give me a shock with how tall he is by now." He shrugged as he walks for the kitchen's door. "But Reborn is always full of surprise so it can't be helped."

The man nodded. "Thanks for the food."

"No problem."

"I wonder who will win if you and Soma do a showdown." Tsuna halted from his steps. "You seem like someone who can integrate his whole being in a dish."

"If we do have a showdown, it will be like a regular household meal, Saiba-san." He touched the doorjamb and looked back to the man. "The only one I want to have a reaction from my food is Soma who is the only family in front of me at that time. Some cook to win others, to prove that there's chemistry with the ingredients, etcetera. But for me, I cook for my family, and maybe get Reborn's approval since he is a perfectionist."

Saiba stared at him for seconds before shooting another question. "Who is Castor and Pollux between you?"

Tsuna scrunched his face a little as he thinks. Even his intuition is silent when this question is asked. "I don't really know. I could consider myself as Castor for being fortunate enough to be given life and a new purpose after my death. Or be Pollux to have a brother who could do things with me that no one will. But either who, we're still a twin in your eyes so I don't care who's who." Tsuna glanced out to the window and nodded. "I should go, Saiba-san. Tell Soma to eat his breakfast, I don't want him starving!" Then he ran out.

Jouichiro stared at the empty plates in front of him. He laughed before taking the glass to sip the orange while reminiscing how the brunet cook in the kitchen. He could use some more skills but the way he makes his dish is remarkable. Not even he can do that at young age.

The secret to cooking is to find someone you'll love to cook for. And the brunet already found it.

The encompassing sky as the close families of Vongola dabbed him.

"Vongola is done for if they let that child get away." He chuckled before getting out of his sit and carried the dishes to the sink. "Clean this up then wake Soma up for a showdown. Ah right, ask Fumio-san to be a judge. She should be awake by now."

Chapter Text

Chapter Nineteen

"Did you see Oyaji leave?" Soma asked to Tsuna who was walking behind him and Megumi.

"Yup." Tsuna answered and cheekily smiled at him. "I even sent him off."

Soma gaped. "What?! Why didn't he let me?!"

Megumi laughed after the brunet answered, "You were slower than a snail when you dressed so he went on."

Soma made an annoyed face before walking backwards to match the brunet's steps while letting Megumi lead them the way.

"What is it?" He asked while looking out.

"Did he say something? Anything before he left?" Soma whispered.

Tsuna hummed.

" I'm leaving." Saiba said with a great smile on him.

"O-Oh." Tsuna blurted out, still out of breath from his run. "I bet you didn't say anything to Soma."

The man stared at him for a sec. "Was your father like that?"

"He wasn't present in my childhood days so I don't really know, Saiba-san." He reminded as he started his short cool down exercises. "I'm thankful that you left Soma when he got older though, unlike me who was never a son to him from the very start."

"I won't mind gaining another son, Tsuna." The chef stated, too fast for Tsuna's sanity. "I honestly think you're good with Soma. He's pretty friendly but too focused on cooking. With you around, he becomes livelier. Like when my wife was still alive."

Tsuna stopped from his exercises and stood straighter. "You don't have to, Saiba-san. I'm okay. I already accepted the fact that I don't have a father."

"It won't hurt if you suddenly have one starting this day?" The man queried, causing the brunet to smile.

"No. It won't hurt. But I don't think I'm worthy to be your son with mediocre skills."

"After eating your food this morning? You're good enough. What you have and you don't are what Soma don't and have. Get me?"

Tsuna nodded slowly, mind processing what the man said. "Like I have an amazing phone but no signal, while Soma doesn't have an amazing phone but he has signal."

"Yes. But from Soma's stories, I know you're unsettled with this sudden change I'm proposing, so if you still don't want it, we can have a compromise." The brunet went attentive as the man grinned. "If you pass through the preliminaries in the Election, you get yourself a father."

"If I don't?" He asked reluctantly.

"You have a brother and an uncle." Saiba shrugged. "But I want you to be my son too. You look almost like Soma when you two grin."

Tsuna blinked before nodding with the same grin he had that was identical to Soma. "Good enough. I should really do my best with my dying will then."

"Dying will huh? What flame type does Soma have?"

He answered without a beat. "Storm. A good storm."

"We have a compromise." He answered with a nod. "But rest assured, he wasn't against our friendship."

Soma's eyes widened before he sighed as if he felt so relieved. "I thought he won't say anything. But what's that compromise you had?"

Tsuna rose a brow to the teen. "You're snooping, Soma-chan. That's not good."

"I'm just curious."

"When the time comes, you'll know."

"Fine."

"G-Guys, we're here." Megumi called out from the front.

The two walked up to stand beside the bluenette to observe the building in front of them. It's a simple two story with a big window above a pair of big doors. Everything looks old in a way, but it gives off a greenhouse vibe.

"Looks like this is the place." Soma mused as he looked down on the paper in his hand then up to the building. "Much more worn out than I expected though."

Tsuna jabbed his elbow on the redhead's side.

"Not like I can say much, coming from the Polar Star dorm." Soma added on, not even wincing. Well, it wasn't that painful.

"Really?" Tsuna sarcastically said.

The redhead only laughed before giving of a thoughtful expression. "Is that amazing teacher really here?"

"W-What should I-I do if she's scary like Chapelle-sensei?" Megumi stuttered, already shaking in nervousness.

"Come on, Tsuna, Tadokoro." Soma said as he went on first.

The brunet took Megumi's wrist and tugged her to walk as he asked. "What kind of teacher are we even looking for? You went pushing me to the bathroom with my clothes and started to drag me out, saying we're going somewhere."

"Her name is Jun Shiomi. She's an underclassman of Oyaji in Polar Star dorm, and one of the youngest teacher here in Tootsuki. He said she's amazing in making curries." Soma replied as he pushed open the doors to walk in.

Tsuna's intuition clicked in. "Why are we researching about curry?"

"It's the theme for the preliminaries, Tsuna-kun." Megumi answered to him. She walked beside him so he let go. "There are varieties of curry dishes."

He blinked when his mind remembered that one time Reborn lectured him about different curries. "Oh. So we're going to see what spices can be used to make our own version of curry."

"Yes." The two responded.

"What about the others?"

"Ryouko-chan, Ibusaki and Yuki-chan are going home to their towns to plan things out." Megumi recalled.

"Hmm..." Tsuna hummed.

"Ah. There it is." Soma pointed at the door with 'Jun Shiomi Office' label on it.

Tsuna let the two go in as he looked around. He can smell different spices and plants with varied scents. He wrinkled his nose. Ever since, his intuition went stronger after his flame seal got almost disintegrated by the Ultimate dying will mode (there's more or less twenty percent of the seal in him still), he's becoming sensitive to things. His sights are clearer, smelling got stronger, taste was heightened, hearing are enhanced and his sense of touch is pretty much as such. It doesn't even help that he's constantly on no-visible-flame hyper dying will mode. He feels like a cheat when he shouldn't be because his alien is part of him.

Shrugging, he went inside the office Soma and Megumi went in. He was graced with a lady about his neck with brown hair in a pony tail, brown eyes behind a square rimmed glasses while wearing a casual attire. She looks like a middle schooler with how vertically challenged she is, but Tsuna knew she's not any younger than them with how her eyes shine with knowledge and the way she stood like she's an equal regardless of how she and Megumi continuously apologize to each other.

"So, uhm... Who are you?" The lady asked, adjusting her glasses.

"Erm... We want to ask something to the teacher here, so if you could tell her that Jouichiro Saiba's son is here-"

Tsuna immediately pulled the back of Soma's uniform to make the redhead evade the punch that was coming to his face. They went for a small dance when the lady started to attack them like they triggered something in her. Tsuna became a marionette for Soma who hasn't said a complain for being moved here and there. After a couple of seconds, the lady got tired attacking them and stopped. But she did stare at them. Tsuna had an arm around Soma's waist while the latter slung an arm around his shoulder. They were both a little breathless but alright.

"E-Eh! W-What are you d-doing?!" Megumi asked in panic, not knowing what to do.

"Jouichiro Saiba's son..." The lady made an angrily annoyed yet grimacing expression. "Get out of here now!"

"Eh?" The three exclaimed.

"I don't even want to remember Saiba-sempai!" She yelled angrily.

"Hey. I brought what you asked for..." The door opened and a familiar guy stopped by the threshold, blinking at the scene in front of him. He raised a brow. "Hmm?"

Tsuna raised a hand. "Yo, Hayama-san."

Akira Hayama mimicked the greeting. "Hello Tsuna."

"You know each other?" Soma and the lady questioned in unison.

The two shrugged.

"They're not that bad, Shiomi-sensei." Tsuna chuckled nervously when the teacher turned away from Soma.

"You ate some too?" Shiomi asked, staring at him.

"Megumi here is Soma's usual victim." He said as he pointed at the bluenette who was looking at Soma with a deadpan expression. "Soma once made me eat some of his... Unique creation but I don't really mind."

"It's true." Megumi nodded to Shiomi. "He ate that horrible snake dish Saiba-san made. He didn't even cringe at how bad it is. It's almost like he's so done for it that he doesn't mind at all."

The professor looked at him with sympathy and pity with tear-jerked eyes. "I feel you. Regardless, I will teach you and the girl. But no to Saiba-sempai's son."

"Sorry. We finally get some visitor and she's cruel to you." Hayama apologized as he put a tray with cups of tea and condiments on the table. "I'm her assistant, a first year in the high school division. The name is Hayama." He continued on as he sat beside Jun.

Tsuna murmured a small 'thanks' for the tea as they discuss things. He took a cup and started to blow on it to remove the hotness.

"At any rate, you have a lot of spices- Ah. This smells a lot like curry." Soma said from somewhere within the living room they were accommodated to.

"Don't go breaking things there, Soma-chan." He warned as he enjoys the tea.

"That's a spice called Kari Patta." Hayama answered to Soma while taking a cup himself. "It is also called curry leaf."

"This is delicious, Hayama-san." He praised. "You made the blend?"

"Mostly." The dark teen hummed before answering Megumi's question. "That's one of Jun's research topics: Establishing methods to stably cultivate spices in Japan which is native to tropical lands. Other than that, she's discovering long term conservation techniques that make use of refrigeration technologies. She's also succeeded in extraction of many new flavor compounds."

"Woah." Tsuna interjected as Soma praised the teacher for her remarkable achievements. "Anyway, she's the..."

Hayama bit his lower lip to stop himself from smiling and snickering. "Yes."

"You're bad." He admonished lightly with a laugh.

Soma sat beside him and nodded on the professor who's starting to write on the whiteboard while drowning on her lab gown. "She started to give a lecture."

"Ah. She takes awhile when she gets started." Hayama explained before placing his cup on the table and stood up, gesturing Soma with a mischievous grin. "Well, experiencing it yourself should be much faster."

"Ha?" Megumi and Soma exclaimed while Tsuna stared at the guy.

"Eat something before you go, I'll show you the depths of spices." Hayama continued on as he started to walk for the door, taking one of the curry leaf from its plate.

The three looked at each other before standing up and following Hayama. They were ushered in a kitchen with an island. Tsuna made himself feel at home by sitting on one of the stools while Hayama graced the two with his knowledge of spices. He contented himself by seeing Soma and Megumi get attacked by combination of spices to spices.

He was just musing himself how the dark teen cook when Soma presented him the three bowls of curry. He stared at the redhead who was looking at him with determined eyes. He probably wants to gauge his reaction. Shrugging, Tsuna took the challenge.

"How is it?" Soma asked.

"Good." He answered, grimacing inside his head as he compared his Kaasan's usual curry. Seriously, what's Nana's secret in cooking?

"Good?" Hayama asked, disbelieving.

Tsuna nodded. "Good. The flavors go up from one dish to another. The third is the most flavorful. I mean you can do more, right?"

"Tsuna here is my best friend." Soma introduced as he bumped his shoulder to his. "He likes to eat food so everything for him is delicious. It takes effort to make him say 'wow', 'amazing' and anything that can describe a dish."

"And up until now, he hadn't said anything about any dishes." Megumi added.

"I did say wow on the Karaage roll you made, Soma." He pointed out.

"That was team effort and you loved the herbs there." The redhead retorted.

"Wow. I can make you a good test subject." Hayama said with a blink. "I can make every single dish with spices in it and make you eat them until you can say wow."

"Nah. I decline." Tsuna smiled. "But you're amazing too."

"Heh. It's in the job description. I told you, didn't I ? That lady needs me." Hayama smirked. "Sublimating the theories Jun comes up with into real dishes, that's my work here."

The brunet mused at how Shiomi and Hayama took apart a cook's work into two jobs, to experiment and to do application. He's not even good at chemistry but he got the gist of it.

"I honestly laughed when I saw the theme for the preliminaries! For it to be a curry dish, of all things." Hayama chuckled.

Soma's eyes glinted as his posture changed. He's in for a challenge. "You're also in the Autumn Election."

"I'm in the A block with you, Soma Yukihira." The dark teen remarked.

"Wait. Did I ever mention my name?" Soma questioned.

Tsuna rolled his eyes. "Soma, you should already know that you're negatively popular with the stunt you pulled in the entrance ceremony."

"I know. But that doesn't mean everyone should know my name."

"At least to all the first years who attended the ceremony." Hayama pointed out before angling his body a little away. "Your dishes are amusing. You come up with ideas even under limited situation. However, that isn't enough to get to the top."

Tsuna's and Soma's eyes glinted. That is a challenge. The brunet didn't mind, he's rather amused. But he knew Soma will take on the taunt. He always will.

"The one that reaches you before the taste and the looks... The thing that lingers even after chewing and swallowing is the aroma." Hayama said like it was a fact. "One who is in control of cooking is in control of the aroma. In other words, the one who will take Tootsuki's top is Akira Hayama." The teen removed his tie as he passed Soma who was still on his spot. "None other than me."

Tsuna chuckled as he went off the stool and stood beside the silent Megumi.

Soma peered back to Hayama before closing his eyes as he clapped his hands together with a sly smirk. "Well, thanks for the feast. Your curry was good. I'll pay you back for it later."

"Later?" The teen repeated, turning back to Soma.

Soma opened his eyes and looked at Hayama at the corner of his eyes. "A curry better than yours. I'll make you taste it at the Election."

Tsuna hid his face in his hands as he laughed when Hayama parroted Soma and asked about his mentality. "Oh my God."

"Tsuna-kun! It's not something to laugh at!" Megumi chided quietly. "He's going to fight someone with this calibre!"

"But that's Soma, you know." He waved off, staring at the redhead who is taking Hayama's questioning in a stride and honesty. "He won't grow if he doesn't battle strong people."

"Have you experienced that?" Megumi asked as they follow Soma to the door.

Tsuna reached for Soma's clothe from the back as he nodded. He pulled the redhead out of the door's way when it opened widely and Shiomi entered with panic. "Yup."

"Thank you, Tsuna." Soma sighed.

"Soma Yukihira." They all looked at Hayama who called Soma. "Facing curry is facing spices, facing aromas. Moreover, my nose is special. You don't have a chance to win."

"Well, it's just preliminaries." Tsuna said as he put a hand on the redhead's shoulder. Soma is getting excited. "You won't know if you'll win or Soma does or someone else will until you get to the finals, so we should not be hasty, Hayama-san."

They all looked at him.

"Anyway, we're going. Thank you for the hospitality. We'll see you next month." He gave a small bow to Shiomi who bowed back, unsure. "Thank you for the lecture, Shiomi-sensei. We'll see you around."

When they got out of the building, Tsuna let Soma dwell on his thoughts. Megumi asked him what he meant on fighting people who are stronger than him. He just smiled in response, causing the bluenette to pout.

Back at his room, he sat on his bed while thinking of what he could do. Soma and Megumi were in the kitchen, researching about spices from the books that they found in the mansion. He stared at his phone before going for the message app to compose a text.

'From: Na-Na-chan

Subject: (none)

Message: Hi Kaasan. How are you? I'm doing great here. No assignments to take care of.'

Nana squealed in delight when she read the message from her little Tsu-kun. Ever since her fellow brunet went away, the house was never the same again. The children don't play as much anymore, Reborn disappears somewhere and Ieyasu isn't Tsuna so they don't have a somewhat close bond. So it's a gift for her to receive a message from the brunet.

'To: Na-Na-chan

Subject: Hello!

Message:  Everything is fine here, Tsu-kun. Good thing you found a school that doesn't have an assignment to give you.'

Nana hummed as she pocketed her phone and continued cooking. After a minute, she felt it vibrate again so she took it out and read the message.

'From: Na-Na-chan

Subject: (none)

Message: I know. Ah. Kaasan. Can you help me with something? It's about cooking curry.'

Nana tilted her head in confusion. Shrugging, she turned off the stove and clicked dial before pressing the technology on her left ear with her back waist resting on the counter. It didn't have to take rings for her son to pick up. And she felt so relieved to hear his voice.

"Kaasan?"

"What's this curry about?" She asked.

A rustle. "Well, my school has this event that selects first year high schools to participate."

"You're in it?" Nana gasped in realization before putting the phone to her chest to squeal in happiness. She went back to him hurriedly. "That's so great! I'm so proud of you."

An embarrassed squeak. "K-Kaasan."

She giggled. She could imagine her fellow brunet blushing. "Alright alright. So curry... Tell me what you have in mind."

"Well, every country has their own curry, right? With different spices too. So we kinda visited an acquaintance awhile ago and he showed off these spices that goes well with curry. They tasted good, and every flavor on his dish elevates. But..." A mumble.

"Hm?"

A deep breath. "But I like your curry more, Kaasan."

Nana can't help her grin. It's not every day that her son admits that he misses her cooking. "Oh Tsu-kun. Do you want to recreate my curry or do you want to know how I make it?"

"I don't really know, Kaasan. Maybe both? But I wanna make something that I can make with my own signature on them, so you could eat it too when I get back."

Her heart fluttered at how thoughtful Tsuna is. "I'll give you some tips then? Like what spices to put together, what possible ingredients you can get."

A relieved sigh. "Thank you, Kaasan."

Her smile softened. "So how much days do you have?"

"The whole summer, Kaasan. And I want to make the most of it."

"Okay then. I'll research here while you do too on your side. Sounds like a plan?" She made a mental note to write all her curry recipes in a notebook.

"Yes."

"We can start tomorrow."

"Okay. Thank you, Kaasan."

"Take care, Tsu-kun."

"I will."

She shut close her phone before reaching for the stove knob to open the fire again. While taking her wooden spoon from where she put it, she contemplated how matured her son sounded on the phone. This was the longest time she's ever been away from him. She hopes Soma is taking care of her son.

"Was that Tsuna, Mama?" She looked back to Reborn who stood by the threshold of the kitchen door. "What does he need?"

"He's making a curry next month, and he wants my help for it." She hummed with a smile while turning back to the pot. "My son is learning to cook."

"Do you want me to research too?" Reborn asked.

"That could help, Reborn-kun. Let's do our best to help him." She cheered positively.

Her other son in black suit nodded with a smirk. "Yes."

Their dinner that night was extra special. And Nana enjoyed the confusion in Ieyasu's expression when she said it's for a celebration.

Chapter Text

Chapter Twenty

(August Two)

'From: Kaasan

Subject: Curry!

Message: Good Morning Tsu-kun! I took a picture of my recipe on curry. The one I usually cook.

*two attached photos*'

Tsuna looked at the pictures, looking up and down before taking his spare notebook from the side to write them down. He stared at the recipe before standing up from his bed with the notes in hand. He went straight for the kitchen. He stared at the boxes of spices and started to check the list of those condiments his mother uses for her curry.

"Tsunayoshi-kun?" Isshiki-sempai called when the upperclassman was about to walk by and noticed the brunet in mid steps.

"Hmm?" He hummed in response before looking up.

"What are you doing?"

"Studying some spices. I never knew my Kaasan uses spices for her curry so I'm looking up what they tasted individually."

"Oh."

Tsuna gave a smile. "Don't mind me, Isshiki-sempai. I'm working on it."

The upperclassman smiled back. "If you need anything, tell me."

"I don't want to trouble you. And you're one of the administrators, you can't help."

"Maybe praise you or something?"

The brunet laughed. "Okay."

(August Seven)

Tsuna coughed and waved his hand in the air to remove the spicy, tear-jerking smell in the air. He felt stupid doing that though. He took Soma's clothe from the back and pulled him backwards so he won't suffocate before opening the windows to remove the smell in the air.

"I'm not gonna put the chilies first next time." Soma swore as they coughed.

Tsuna took a glass and pour water in it before giving it to the redhead. "Drink up. It will remove the after effects."

"Thanks. Drink a water too." The redhead nodded.

The brunet drank his own water before taking out his notebook and wrote: "Never do the same thing Soma did with the chilies."

"Do you really have to do that?"

Tsuna gave Yukihira a big smile. "You're a good example of a person to never follow."

"You little-!"

"Uwaa!"

(August Ten)

'To: Kaasan

Subject: Curry!

Message: Mixed vegetables. Potato, cauliflower, eggplant, carrot.'

Tsuna aligned a finger between his lips as he stared at the garden from his perch.

"What are you thinking, Sawada?" Fumio asked while handing him a mug of chocolate drink. "I don't even get it how you can drink such hot beverage at this heat."

Tsuna said a small 'thank you' as he received it. "As they say it, fight fire with fire. Sometimes another poison can fight a poison." He took a sip. "Just getting an inspiration, for your previous question."

"Hmm... Peculiar. Your dorm mates use food as an inspiration in general."

He gave a small smile. "Well, we're all weirdos in our own way."

The old lady laughed. "That is true."

(August Twelve)

"I see. So you're going back as of today too, Tadokoro." Soma mused.

"Yes." The bluenette answered with a positive smile. "I was planning to return for O-bon to begin with. I also want to test how the ingredients I can find at home go with some spices. Wait. Where's Tsuna-kun?"

"Here!" Tsuna came in, winded a little, with a small wrapped up bento in hands. "It's just some snacks to munch on the way."

"Oh! Thank you, Tsuna-kun." Megumi expressed as she took the small gift. "You two are the only first years in the dorm for awhile."

Soma smiled as he bumped his shoulder on Tsuna who did the same. "Yup. But no worries. As long as Tsuna doesn't leave me, I'll be alright."

"I'm gonna leave you later." The brunet let out his tongue to spite the redhead.

Megumi chuckled as she opened the door. "See you again in Autumn, Soma-kun, Tsuna-kun. Let's do our best."

Tsuna waved as Soma responded. "Yeah! Bring us some souvenirs!"

(August Fourteen)

'From: Reborn

Subject: Chaos.

Message: Deliver me a final dish at the end of the week.'

Tsuna grinned. That's a discreet help. He typed a reply before putting the phone back to his pocket to continue his practice runs.

'To: Reborn

Subject: (none)

Message: I don't want to stand out.'

(August Seventeen)

Tsuna looked up to Soma who sat at the seat across him. Soma stared at the notebook in front of him, twirling a pencil in his fingers. The brunet decided to go back to the book he's reading about spices and herbs.

"Na Tsuna."

"Hn?"

"You're in block B, right?"

"Yep."

"Ever occurred to you that we might face off in the main tournament?" Brown eyes looked up to see yellow looking at him with thoughtfulness. "I mean there's a possibility that we get paired up."

"Have you?"

Soma puckered his lips before moving them to the right. "I honestly didn't."

"I didn't too." He answered, going back to the book.

"I'm thinking that I'm gonna face Alice Nakiri and Hayama, but it never occurred to me that I'm gonna face you somewhere in the Election."

Tsuna shrugged. "I don't think it will happen though. They'll probably pair you up with the ones that has the ability to expel you in the academy."

The redhead put the pencil down as he leaned back. "What do you think?"

"He tried to search info about me." Tsuna went for a next page. "Probably to see if he could blackmail me with something or bribe me. Good thing Reborn was there. He told the prefect to be vigilant."

Soma nodded. "Yankee indeed. We have to be careful then."

"I want you to be careful." The brunet sighed. "You keep on picking fights on strong cooks. But if you don't do that, you won't grow too. Do you know how frustrating it is to feel so nervous whenever you do that?"

"Don't you believe in me?"

"I do. But..."

"But?"

"You'll understand someday." The brunet smiled weakly. "Just think about your dish for now. Let's focus on getting past the prelim, yeah?"

The redhead nodded. "Okay."

(August Nineteen)

Tsuna stared at the green pear-shaped thing hanging from a vine with heart shaped leaves. It looks prickly with the small thorns adorning its body. Since when did that thing was here? The last time he visited, he didn't see it. Is it a fruit? A vegetable?

"Oh. That's a chayote, Tsunayoshi-kun." Isshiki informed from the back.

"Chayote?" He repeated as he recalled the things he read the past days. "Hayatouri?"

"Yup. It must be your first time seeing it since it's not really common for us to use such vegetable." The upperclassman explained. "It just sprouted two months ago, I think? I let it be since it's pretty rare to have."

"Can I take some?"

"Yup. No problem. They grow fast so you won't run out."

Tsuna stared at the vegetable with a gleam in his eyes. "Thank you, sempai."

(August Twenty-One)

Soma looked up when a hand got on top of his. Tsuna was staring at him like he's doing something stupid. He gazed back cluelessly. He was just mixing the spices.

"Do you know what time is it already?" The brunet questioned.

Soma blinked before looking up to the clock. It read two am. "Oh."

"Yeah. Oh." Tsuna removed his hand on the redhead's and leaned on the table, crossing his arms and eyed him sternly. "Once they're mixed up, you're going to sleep, got it?"

"You're not sleeping too." He retorted back while mixing them again.

"I came to go to the bathroom. Given your state, I might as well wait."

"We can go now."

"After you finish that." He was given a narrowed stinky eye that startled him. "Starting today, I'm going to sleep here. Seriously..." A mumble.

"O-Okay okay." He said as he moved his hand. No one wants to anger a Tsunayoshi Sawada.

(Soma was shook to wake up early in the morning the next day as an compensation for making him sleep that night.)

(August Twenty-Three)

"Ah! The rice!"

Soma watched the brunet hit his forehead with his palm while muttering how stupid he is and why did he forget such a thing. "What is it?"

"I forgot the rice. Damn it. I thought that was going to be provided." Tsuna groaned before reaching out for the book he has been holding before sitting up from his laying position on the bed. "What was..."

The redhead looked at the spices he was grinding. "Rice, huh..."

(August Twenty-Five)

Walking down the hallway of the third floor to get to his room, Isshiki faltered from his track when he noticed the light on room three-o-three, which he knew that belongs to a certain redhead. He felt curious on what was going on, so he looked over. When he opened the door to get inside, he stared at the twins of Polar Star dorm, curled on each other.

He checked the floor where a lot of curry dishes and packets and bottle of spices laid there. He reached out to inspect one of them and felt amazed when he noticed the mixture of the one he was holding.

"Interesting..." He breathed. "This is really interesting."

"I'm just getting started, Isshiki-sempai." He looked at Soma who was peering at him half-lidded. A smirked marred the teen's lips as he closed his eyes and scooted closer to Tsuna who curled a little more. "I'm going to make it even better."

He chuckled and returned the plate on its place. He stood up and put a blanket on the two before moving to the door. He turned the lights off with a smile then closed the door behind him.

"Soma-kun is doing something interesting. And Tsunayoshi-kun," Isshiki hummed as he remembered what he saw in Tsuna's hands yesterday. "It seems like he's finalizing his dish."

(August Twenty-Eight)

"Reborn! Delivery!"

Tsuna's old room door opened and soundless footsteps went down the stairs. Reborn flickered his fedora up as he walked near the door where Ieyasu and the deliveryman were. He took the offered clipboard to sign his name before taking the medium size pot from the man and moved towards the dining room.

"Where did that come from?" Ieyasu queried, looking at the pot the hitman put on the table.

"From someone I know." Reborn answered before gesturing him to the kitchen. "Get some plate and a ladle Baka-Ie before I shoot you."

"Yes yes." The blond answered, complying out of fear and curiosity.

When they got the needed silverwares, Reborn took a deep breath and opened the lid of the pot. The powerful aroma of the food inside the pot moved its way out like ocean waves flooding those who can smell it. The hitman smirked and shook his head, taking Ieyasu by surprise since he never saw Reborn give that kind of reaction.

"He doesn't want to stand out, he says." Reborn muttered under his breath.

(August Thirty-One)

Soma peered over Tsuna's phone. "What's that?"

"It's Kaasan. She's wishing us good lucks." The brunet answered with a soft smile. "It's her first time saying that to me."

"Ha? What do you mean?" The redhead asked, curious and confused.

Tsuna shook his head and smiled brightly. "Nothing nothing. So ready for tomorrow?"

"Yup! Packed and ready."

"Good." Tsuna reached out and patted the redhead's shoulder. "Give him the best curry as you pass the preliminaries. When that happens, you two can dominate the tournament and face off at the end."

"Yeah." Soma nodded as he looked up to the starry night sky. "Thanks for being here, Tsuna."

"Thanks for being here too, Soma." The brunet said back with a smile.

(September One)

"Tsuna! Hurry!"

Sawada huffed before running to stop beside Yukihira. They stared at the humongous stadium in front of them with two streamers on both sides that read 'Forty-third Autumn Election Cooking'. Who knew the building they were talking about when they were on the way to the Polar Star dorm on their first day in Tootsuki was the very stadium they're going to cook at today.

"It's already five months huh?" Tsuna mused, doing a quick math.

"Seven since the day we met and you stayed with me." Soma nodded.

The two looked at each other and grinned.

"Let's go." Soma said as he grasped the brunet's hand. "The Election awaits!"

Tsuna's merry laugh resounded in the path.

Like this, one month passed in a blink of an eye for the Election's sixty participants.

A clear autumnal weather.

A vast sky.

And the curtain opens for the grand stage.

Chapter Text

Chapter Twenty-One

"Woah. It's really a big building." Soma exclaimed as they walked around to get to the entrance. "This is many times bigger than the hall where I had a Shokugeki against Nikumi. We're really cooking here?"

"Yeah. The stage is probably bigger, and the stands must be big enough to accommodate everyone unlike the last time." Tsuna hummed as they entered a path with a light at the end. "Wait, Soma. We must not go to the light."

The redhead stared at him in shock. "We're not going to die, you idiot!"

The brunet laughed before poking the other's arm. "You're it!"

A shout against a joyous laughter. Tsuna evaded a jab from his left and ran around Soma who tried to get him. He tightened his grip on his own knife case as they entered the light. For a little while, he slowed on his run to take on the place. No wonder Soma caught him in a headlock and gave him a slightly painful noogie that he only laughed at.

When they got a little calmer, they observed their surroundings. Like what Tsuna had said, everything was different from the last hall. The venue scale is larger and the number of seats increased. There's even a stage on the left side. And surprisingly, the atmosphere is pretty tense. The brunet looked at the redhead beside him who was quiet too. He rolled his eyes and bumped his hip to the other.

"Don't get nervous on me now, Mister I'll-take-the-top." He teased.

"What? Me? Nervous? Hah! Shouldn't you be worrying about yourself, Mister Extra-ordinary?" The redhead rebutted.

"I'm ordinary." He corrected, dodging the question.

"Extra-ordinary." Soma insisted.

They narrowed their eyes on each other to start an argument.

"Uhm. Soma-kun? Tsuna-kun?" They turned at Megumi who's watching them with a sweatdrop.

"Megumi-chan!" Tsuna acknowledged with a smile. "Welcome back!"

"You're here already, Tadokoro? How was your summer break?" Soma asked as he let go of the brunet so they could greet the bluenette properly.

"We-Well," Megumi gave a small smile. "I think I'm well prepared for this."

Tsuna looked behind her and took a step back. "Here they come."

"Megumi! It's been a while!" Yuki greeted as she jumped on the bluenette from the back.

"Wah! Girls!" Tadokoro exclaimed in good surprise.

"Hi! How are you?" Ryouko greeted as she came in with Shun.

"We're fine." The brunet answered for him and Soma whose attention was on Hayama. "What about you?"

"Great!" Ryouko responded as Yuki nodded with vigor.

He eyed Shun who was looking around. "You, Shun? Ready?"

"Always." A short response from the auburn.

"Yukihira!" Tsuna swirled around to see Takumi with a thin Isami walking towards their group. "I'm going to say it once more! I'm your true rival-"

"No. Wait a second." Soma blinked. "Who's that guy next to you?"

Tsuna looked at the redhead. "That's Isami, Soma."

"Don't joke around, Tsuna. The Isami I know was big." The redhead said, recalling the chubby Isami.

"Of course, this is Isami, Yukihira!" Takumi shouted causing Megumi's and Soma's jaws to drop in shock. "Isami losses weight when he gets fatigue due to summer heat."

"That is caused by summer heat fatigue?!" Soma questioned in shock before turning around to Tsuna who stared at him. "How did you know?!"

"The hair and the height? And Isami-san never stray away from his brother." Tsuna said like it was a fact before waving a hand to Isami. "How are you? Are you okay now?"

"I've stabilized so it's okay." The youngest Aldini answered with a relaxed smile. "My body goes back through winter and autumn."

"I-It happens every year..." Megumi trailed off.

"I'm surprised you don't die from that." Soma nodded.

Sawada hummed. "With proper care and hydration, he'll survive."

"Oh." The two nodded as if they discovered something new.

"Well now, let's start anew." Takumi coughed on his fist, causing the three of them to look at the blond. "Yukihi-"

Tsuna doesn't know if he's going to wince, laugh or pity Takumi who got cut off again when the building went black. He was really trying to say something to Soma but gets interrupted almost all the time. He kinda jumped when he felt a slightly warm hand grasped his. He squeezed that hand as spotlights got directed to the stage on the far side. He looked at Soma who was facing the stage. He can already feel the redhead's excitement.

"We'd like to thank all our attendees for waiting." A female voice said resounding from the speakers. "Please pay attention to the stage in front of the hall. We'll have some opening words from the Academy's director."

"Oh. What's that?" Soma questioned to him before looking back to Takumi with a grin. "Sorry. Can you wait?"

"Hey-!"

"Don't be mean." Tsuna chided, only to get a snicker.

"It's fun teasing him." Soma whispered back just as Senzaemon Nakiri made his appearance. "Hey! It's Director Nakiri."

"Yeah." Tsuna nodded with a cringe as he put his attention to the front after the old man took a deep breath, only to choke and cough.

"D-Director?!" One of the men in black by the stage called out.

"No need to worry, I just choked." Senzaemon waved off before giving them, the students, a leveled survey. "When I breathe in this place's atmosphere, I can feel my heart and body getting surrounded by vitality. This venue is also known as the 'Chandra's Room'. By and large, it is used for Shokugeki 'between the members of Elite ten'. To honor all of the people in possession of the first seat, it's our tradition to put their portrait here."

Tsuna slid his eyes to see Soma looking around and whispering in awe before tugging his hand to get his attention. "Look Tsuna! There's Doujima-sempai with hair! And Shinomiya-sempai too! He was a first seat!"

"Many great matches. Many specialties were born here. For that reason, they linger here like sediments. The continuous memories of battles." Senzaemon continued, surveying them again until purple met brown for a brief second that caused the director to quirk an almost invisible smile. "And the Autumn Election main tournament will be held here. In short, only students who can pass through the preliminaries will be able to stand on this stage." Then he broke into a challenging smirk that was aimed to them. "Ladies and gentlemen! You will make a history here! Let us meet again in this place, cooks of Tootsuki's Ninety-second generation!"

Their fellow students cheered at the encouragement while Senzaemon Nakiri made his way out of the stage. While they did, Tsuna felt as if the world fell on his shoulders.

He grasped Soma's hand in nervousness. He admits that he has some good skills in the kitchen and he likes to make things and try new recipes, but this is his first contest or cook off something. And he's not in block A to begin with so he'll be alone.

He felt those piercing yellow eyes went to him. But Soma couldn't voice out his question when the emcee started to explain the mechanics of the preliminaries. And honestly, Tsuna dreaded this.

"We will now explain the rules of the preliminaries." The voice in the speaker announced, causing murmurs and voices to quieten down. "The basic regulations are as written in the letters sent to you: the theme is curry dishes. You may use ingredients inside the venue, or you may use any ingredients you brought with you. The time limit is three hours. And regarding the number of passing students, out of sixty participants of number of students that will advance to the main tournament is a total of ten with two wild cards. In other words, five students will pass with one wild card in each group."

This information caused an uproar from the students.

"We ask that all participants promptly proceed to Hall A or B at this time. In about an hour from now, at eleven o'clock, the preliminaries will start."

"Hoo! There's no use being scared by now!" Yuki said to herself as she slapped both of her hands to her cheeks.

"Yeah." Shun affirmed.

"Yes...!" Megumi seconded.

"Tsuna-"

"Yukihira!" The two looked back to Takumi who was pointing at him with a smirk. "Let's meet here again at the main tournament."

Soma nodded. "Yeah."

The two waited for their friends to go. As the other students rush out, they're the only ones in a standstill. Tsuna took a deep breath as he grasped Soma's hand tightly. He closed his eyes as he visualized himself alone at a place. Can he do it? It's not like he didn't survive the training camp alone and without Soma. They were even separated in the buffet breakfast because they had a misunderstanding. Then here he is, feeling like he's going to die just because he won't see his friend.

Fuck.

Is it this bad to be dependent on something he knew he'll lose again?

"Did you know that the first time I stood in a stage, I was going to fight a kendo captain?" Tsuna opened his eyes. "At that time, I was your definition of a coward. Someone who'll never fight because I don't have any confidence that I will win. I was going to walk away since I didn't deserve it. All I did was confess to a girl I had a crush on since elementary and the kendo captain went on shouting how much of a pervert I was because I confessed in my boxers."

"What did you do?" Soma asked, soft and patient.

Tsuna remembered that time clearly. "Reborn made me go back because he voiced out the things I was thinking, I was insecure about and what I was going to regret later on. I won the fight but that's because Reborn was there." He stared at those yellow eyes with honesty and sincerity. "And that's the thing, Soma. I feel like I'm alone in doing this, because this will be the first time I'm going in a competition without Reborn with me, and going to cook with the thought that I might lose you or I'll lose something on the way."

"But you won't."

"I won't." The brunet took a deep breath again. "God. My heart is beating so fast that I feel like I'm gonna die. There will only be five spots and one wild card. What should I do?"

"You just have to be one of them." Soma said as he squeezed the brunet's hand. "And I promise you, I'll be there too."

"I know." Tsuna breathed before staring at their hands. He thought of what he promised to Saiba. "Ah right. I'll have to do my best to earn myself a father and a brother."

"Ha?"

"The compromise between me and Saiba-san. He offered himself as my father. I declined since I'm not in the same level as the two of you in terms of cooking, but he insisted and we had a compromise. If I get myself in the main tournament, it means I fit in. If I don't, I still have you as my brother and him as an uncle. Sounds cool, right?"

"Cool? It's awesome!" The redhead shouted in glee. "You have to get a spot. It will be great to have you as my brother. Twin brothers!"

Tsuna thought of Ieyasu. "But I have a twin already."

"Who cares. We're the synergy. So, you have to get a spot." Then Soma smiled teasingly. "Then after that, we'll talk about why did you confess in your boxers. I mean, Tsuna, what the heck?"

"It was Reborn's fault." He grumbled then he slacked his hold. "You're cooking tonight."

"After I eat your curry for lunch." The redhead pointed out.

Tsuna's mood brightened up. "Really?"

"Yeah. I mean it's your turn for lunch."

"Okay. I'll make it delicious then."

Soma chuckled. "Then this is the time we part ways. I'll see you outside this stadium?"

"Yeah." Tsuna nodded.

Without saying another word, both of them let go of each other's hands and went for their separate ways.

'From: Reborn

Subject: Chaos

Message: Don't lose, Dame-Tsuna. Cook with your dying will. 🦎🔫🔥'

Tsuna clutched his phone in a tight grip before slipping it to his pocket. He looked straight at the clock, but he just couldn't hold it in. He started to laugh whenever he remembers the emojis Reborn attached to his message. A lizard (he was certain that was Leon), a gun (Leon turned into a gun), and a fire (Reborn shots him and he went into dying will mode). It was just so funny that he can't help laughing regardless of how nervous he was.

(The hitman is using emojis!)

(Soma plus Reborn is a good remedy for his anxiety.)

He's in the Hall B right now, donned in his usual cooking uniform since day one: long sleeved white polo with the sleeves folded to his elbows sealed by double sided adhesive tapes on their ends so they won't fall off, with a white waist apron tied on his waist. These polos he always wore are the only things he has (two is provided by the academy for their uniform and two more he bought using his money) other than the three white aprons he bought before the training camp. Then add the brief case of knives that he also bought around last month (with the expert advices of one amazing Soma Yukihira) cause he knew he has to own his own knives anytime soon. And right now, they're waiting for the time to stop ticking and start their cooking.

Ridding himself of tears of laughter, he looked around to see nervous and confident faces. Well, Megumi is trying to calm herself down. The two Aldinis are checking their brought ingredients. There's also Alice with big chemistry machines behind her and Arato who was waiting. Then Yuki who was flapping around. Everyone is too nervous or confident that they'll pass. Is he the only one who's doubting himself?

He glanced at the clock again to see what time is it. There's only one more minute before the time. Taking a deep breath, he thought of his resolve. What he wants to do. What he'll regret not doing. And what he can do to achieve both without making great damages.

The answer is he wants his dish to be cooked nicely so he could share it to his family, get a good score but don't stand out, and do them with his dying will.

With those goals in mind, Tsuna's shoulders sagged in relaxation, a small flicker of flame touched his forehead but didn't manifest. When he opened his eyes, they were orange.

"Begin cooking!" The emcee flagged.

Tsuna opened his case, took a knife then closed it before putting it on the side. He placed the knife on the chopping board before going for the ingredients available on the venue. As students go here and there, he felt so calm with his intuition guiding him on what he should get. As he gathered vegetables, condiments and some spices he lacked from his own belonging, he started to hum just for himself with something he heard from Nana whenever she cooks a curry.

He was going back to his station with a basket in hand when he noticed a blondie in blue dress with fringe being assisted and led by Isshiki to the judges' table. He shrugged, passing by Megumi. He patted the bluenette's shoulder and waved a hand when the lady turned to him.

"Relax, Megumi-chan." He said as he put the ingredients on his counter.

"T-Tsuna-kun!" The bluenette exclaimed before smiling. "Thank you."

"Seriously, you're too nervous."

"Not like you weren't awhile ago." The lady let out her tongue to tease him as he flushed red. "Guilty!"

"As charged. But I need to be nervous." Tsuna sighed as he put soy beans on a pot of water to soak them. "If I don't, I'll feel like something will go wrong."

"I know right." Megumi giggled before blinking like she realized something. "Hey. I don't feel that jittery anymore."

"Hmm?" Tsuna hummed to her like an innocent being before snickering when Megumi called out for Yuki. "The storm is going on a happy rampage." He said as he remembered Soma then looked at Megumi who was readying something. "The rain is about to grace us with a drizzle. What should I do then?"

"Oh. Tsunayoshi Sawada. Who is this?" Orie Sendawara asked, looking around the stations.

"He's the brunet in white apron." Isshiki answered with his everlasting smile.

"The one who is... Dancing and chatting with the boring girl and the girl with a duck?" Orie asked, blinking her eyes. No. Her eyes are not deceiving her. "Why is he like that?"

Isshiki looked over to Tsunayoshi who was bobbing his head lightly like he was listening to something while mixing spices and exchanging pleasantries with Alice Nakiri. "He's humming."

"Why would he hum? He should be cooking." The blondie pouted. "And he's dancing lightly too. I can't see what he's making."

"If you'll ask him, he'll tell you. But given the circumstances, it seems like you'll have to wait." Isshiki chuckled, looking forward for Megumi's and Tsunayoshi's dishes.

Isshiki commended Tsunayoshi when he pulled Tadokoro out of Miyoko Houjou's way before giving a half-lidded stare that gives off defiance and arrogance at the lady. The Chinese lady must've said something that caused Tsunayoshi to get protective over his dormmates. Regardless, the brunet went back to his kitchen after securing that the bluenette is okay.

It somewhat amazes him how Tsunayoshi will do something others can't. Like encouraging others to do their work by just praising them or smiling at them. The brunet will silently do his own while doing great things too. He doesn't want acknowledgement; just a small thanks. And the way he moves around the kitchen while humming, it's like he's not even affected by the pressure everyone was suffering under. He felt so at home, greeting people here and there before falling back to his place again.

Isshiki chuckled when the brunet stared at the blushing bluenette with new found awe. Who wouldn't when she just cut open a goosefish while hanging? Even the audience who was mocking Tadokoro were shut down.

"Watching Soma-kun will have to wait then." He mused as he took note how Tsunayoshi's kitchen is starting to get cleaned by the brunet himself as he started to cook. "I'm seriously curious what you're doing, Tsunayoshi-kun."

Chapter Text

Chapter Twenty-Two

Tsuna sat down to his stool as a loud sound of bell resounded somewhere in the hall, signaling the end of their three-hours allotted time to cook. He already finished a minute before the time. The only thing he needs to do now is serve the five plates to the judges.

"That's enough! The judging will now begin!" Then the emcee, who Tsuna always comes across in every school event, went in to the spotlight. "I will be your emcee, Urara Kawashima!" Then she gave an idol-ish wink with a peace sign.

The crowd, especially the boys, went wild.

"There are five judges." She gestured to the five people in front. "Each judge can give twenty points. Which means each dish will be evaluated with one hundred as a perfect score. The five students who get the best scores will continue on to the main tournament. And after the last dish is judged, we will pick on the wild card!"

Another cheer.

"Let's begin with the first student-"

Tsuna watched everything unfold from his stool. He can sympathize with the students who gained harsh scores. It ranges from zero to thirty-three so far. But then, it is understandable since none of the people he knew have put their own plates in there. Must be waiting for their name to be called.

The judges are tough cookies too. There is Shingo Andou, whose is a cuisine journalist which every paragraph can decide a restaurant's fate; Osaji Kita who is a sponsor of molecular gastronomy and uses his money and influence to eat delicacies; Then the Orie Sendawara, one of the twins that is very famous in curry industry.

(Man. He only knew them since Megumi explained to him who those people were. Reborn will beat him with his lack of knowledge in this field.)

He propped his elbow on his kitchen counter and cupped his chin with the palm of his hand. He wonders how will Soma fare in Hall A. The redhead will really aim for a good score and a good win. But with Hayama there and a lot more people who are good in cooking, he'll have a hard time. Heedless, Tsuna believes Soma will win. What kind of friend is he if he doesn’t believe on his friend’s capability, right?

Brown eyes blinked when he smelled something horrible. He wrinkled his nose in distaste while others voiced their reactions. Then he noticed the chef who served such dish. The moment he saw how the chef looked; he went for a hiding. He dived straight down the floor to hide, internally crying for not having Soma in there. He's scared of the woman in the ring! He's scared of Sadako!

Like who wouldn't be?! What kind of a ghost haunts a film and goes out of your own TV just to kill you after seven days?! He can understand the ghost in the Grudge because that one has a grudge! Or Bloody Mary. Or the Kuchisake-onna. (What kind of a husband are you for slitting your unfaithful wife's mouth from ear to ear? No wonder she's hunting all women in the world.) But Sadako? No!

"T-Tsuna-san? Are you okay?" He looked up to Arato who worriedly asked him. "Why are you trembling? Is it about your dish?"

Tsuna shook his head vigorously and pointed behind him with a trembling finger. "S-Sadako..."

"S-Sadako?" The lady repeated in confusion and looked at the stage. Realization kinda downed on her in a matter of seconds. "Oh. Are you pertaining about Nao Sadatsuka?"

The brunet whimpered with a nod. At least she lives up with her name 'Nao' which means honest.

"Oh. Is it Tsuna-kun?" He heard Megumi's voice. "He's scared of ghost. Sadatsuka-san does give off a ghost vibe."

"You mean creepy stalker tendencies." Arato huffed before smiling at him. "Don't worry about her. I'll make her leave or go to the corner. She's an... Avid fan of Erina-sama."

"O-Okay." He answered, unsure but grateful.

He heard Sadatsuka got eighty-four points. Many got awed since her food doesn't smell that nice but still delicious enough to get such score. It was impressive too.

When Arato's name was called (he was 'Oh. So, her name is Hisako Arato'), he sat on his stool again. Alice was kind enough to tell him that Arato (she calls her Hishoko that Tsuna snickered at) is a medicinal herb expert. The brunet nodded, fascinated at such skill. He was thinking of how she and Hayama might be a good match since they know how spices and herbs work. She got ninety-two points that earned her the first spot.

The next chef was Yuki who served a Wild Game Curry with duck and orange as the main stars. It earned the cheery lady eight-six points. Then Miyoko Houjou who got eight-seven for her Pineapple Fried Rice Curry. He can't still forgive her for saying harsh things on Megumi. If she wanted to have a fight with the bluenette, she only has to say it. With people going here and there, of course Megumi will bump into someone.

"It seems our next contestants are ready!" Kawashima commented with a cheer, probably happy that the scores were going high. "First up is Izami Aldini!"

An 'o' formed on Tsuna's mouth when he saw Calzone being served to the judges. It was mouthwatering! Especially when the judges broke them in the middle and curry were inside. It looked delicious. It really deserves the eighty-seven points.

Then Takumi came in with his Curry Pasta. It made Tsuna go 'wow' since he didn't consider such dish. He did think of noodles but in Japanese style, then forgo it since he's a novice in noodle-making. It must be because the Aldini came from Italy that's why they came up with that idea. He wondered if Reborn will like that one. It earned Takumi ninety-points and a second place.

The brunet cocked his head when Alice served an authentic dish. It doesn't look like a curry but his intuition is telling him that it is. It looked amazing. But when Alice started to explain it in terms of chemistry, he kinda lost it. He is not good with chemistry, especially molecular gastronomy. But without any real comparison with the depths of the dish's flavor, she got herself ninety-five points.

"Tsuna-kun! I got ninety-five points!" Alice squealed in happiness as she skipped towards him. "Can I have you now?"

The brunet blinked before smiling bashfully. "Sorry, Alice-chan. I'm attached to Soma."

The albino pouted before smiling. "It's okay. I can force him to share."

"If it's okay...?"

"Of course! I don't want you to shy away from me!" And he suddenly found himself being hugged. "You're so cute!"

Tsuna blushed before calling out to Megumi who was up next. "Megumi-chan! Good luck! You can do it!"

The bluenette beamed at him before serving her dish. But he wasn't the only one who was cheering for her. There were fishermen by the bleachers, shouting her name and giving her encouragement. They were probably from her hometown. The judges were elated with how good her curry tasted. He kinda felt warm when they said it gives off a warm feeling.

Megumi does give off a warm drizzle in spring and summer. That warm feeling even in winter and autumn. Regardless of how pessimistic and nerve wreck she is sometimes, she can be very positive and bright when given the time to shine. Like when she made those onigiri and tea they ate after they helped in the garden, and in the buffet breakfast. He didn't hear much from the casual match, but Soma said it was her who had to lead and she gave a good kind of Legume with a good combination of spices that took consideration of their upperclassmen's digestive systems, who were judges at that time.

She earned a good eighty-eight points, placing her at fourth.

"Then, the last student to serve his dish, Tsunayoshi Sawada!" The emcee announced.

Tsuna was about to carry his tray when half of the stadium started to call his name. He gaped at some banners that has his name written on them. When he looked closely, he realized that those who was cheering on him were his group mates in the training camp and some of their bus mates on the way to the Tootsuki hotel.

He closed his mouth with a blush. Taking a deep breath, he carried his tray containing Chinese tureens with orange flowery designs. After he served them in front of the judges, he took two steps back and smiled at them. He didn't even know that his eyes were soft orange too while looking at them.

"Please, dig in." He invited.

When the judges opened the lids, sweet aroma with ting of spices took all over Hall B. Tsuna felt himself relax as he reminded himself of Reborn's evaluation on his dish five days ago.

'From: Reborn

Subject: Chaos, Dame-Tsuna

Message: You made a bomb, Idiot. Not only in aroma but in the mouth too. You said you don't want to stand out, but with this? People will remember you. The curry you made is-'

"W-Whoa!" Some of the audience exclaimed.

The judges looked smitten with the aroma of his food. He took a deep breath again when they took their spoons and dug in. His heart palpitated in anticipation and satisfaction when their faces expressed astonishment. The audience murmured as the emcee speculated what the judges are doing and why are they continuously eating.

"This is good!" One of them praised.

"I could not get enough even if I've been eating curry since awhile ago!"

"Oh my God. The taste!" Sendawara moaned as she swallowed what she was chewing. "Sweet, salty, sour, spicy and bitter with creaminess from the coconut milk! Sweetness of the tomato, sour taste of lemon, spiciness from cayenne and paprika, the general saltiness. And bitterness... Hmm." She furrowed her brow in thoughtfulness.

"The rice is so fragrant!" Shingo Andou exclaimed in amazement. "You used pandan leaves to make it smell sweet. With that continuous smell, you can say that the rice tastes sweet!"

"How did you make it bitter?" Osaji Kita asked, a little bewildered. "I can taste turmeric, cumin, black pepper, salt, paprika and cayenne pepper. A little sugar, and that's it. No bitter element."

"Mace, Sir." Tsuna answered, pursing his lips before he continued. They all said what Reborn said in his message. "I boiled the mace a little longer before taking it out."

"So that was the missing spice. I identified eggplant, cauliflower, carrot, potato, squash and this." Then Andou raised his spoon to show a familiar vegetable. "I did not see chayote in the pantry, how did you obtain it?" Then he put it on his mouth.

"In our dorm, Sir. It sprouted there three months ago, according to one of my dormmates." He answered without a beat.

"What were you aiming for this dish, Sawada?" Sendawara questioned with a raise of her brow that is very unusual to see in her baby-like face. "I want your answer." She said before eating more.

"A vegetable tomato curry, Sendawara-san." He stared at the nearly finished bowl of curry in the woman's hands, orange eyes glazing with memory. "My family has a lot of kids and growing teens in there. Although they needed balance diet in meals, curry is usually the ideal food to energize people. To urge children to eat vegetable with elements that they'll like and make teens feel strongly energized to do things they have to do for the day, purely vegetable tomato curry is the dish I'll have to make."

"Then why did I taste meat in here?" The woman asked again, causing murmur among the students.

Tsuna made an 'o' with his mouth. "Oh. It can be a meat, but I didn't really use any fats to begin with." He put his hand in his pocket and pulled a big bean out of there. "I used the meat of the garden, soybeans."

"H-How?!" Andou shouted for the rest of them who were staring at him like he did something out of the world.

"I soaked the beans in the water first before stewing it in a soup to boil. After that, I chopped them to pieces before adding mixed sauce to emphasize the taste before deep frying them to have meat firm texture and preserve it so it won't be affected by the curry's soup." Tsuna answered, remembering how he did it.

"W-Where did you obtain this method?" Andou inquired again, excited and anticipating.

Tsuna suppressed a snicker by grinning cheekily. There's no way he's going to say that he tried to remake Liu Mao Xing in Cooking Master Boy's soybean meat. That's his secret as an Anime enthusiast. "That's an untradable secret, Sir."

"Neh. Will you consider being mine, Tsunayoshi-kun?" Sendawara pouted with a flutter of her eyes. "You're not only a good cook, you're also pretty cute."

Tsuna chuckled. "I'm sorry, Sendawara-san. I may have to decline."

The woman pouted further before smiling cutely as she produced a calling card and slid it towards him. "Call me if you reconsider, Tsunayoshi-kun. Hmm?"

He beamed as he took the card and slipped it on his breast pocket. "If I consider, Sendawara-san."

In a sense, he got three nineteen and two eighteen from the judges. The Hall B erupted in cheers and noises. He waved at the bleachers with a blush when they kept shouting his name. When he got to his station, he was hugged by Megumi and got a teary congrats from Yuki, that he gave a side hug to console her. She was eliminated from the ranks.

"Now, judges." Kawashima addressed. "You will need to pick a wild card among the twenty-five other participants."

The judges started to talk among themselves before Sendawara took the mic and announced the name. "We decided to go with Miyoko Houjou."

The crowd cheered as Houjou stepped forward.

"Now! The final list of participants to the main tournament contains Miyoko Houjou, Hisako Arato, Takumi Aldini, Alice Nakiri, Megumi Tadokoro and Tsunayoshi Sawada!" The emcee announced.

'- Judges will utter your name everytime they come across the ingredients you used or get to taste any of the flavor you put in your dish regardless of how different those food they're tasting from yours. Good job, Dame-Tsuna. You exceeded my expectation with this dish.'

"Remind me to text Reborn and Kaasan later, Alien." Tsuna mumbled to himself as he removed his apron.

'From: xxx-xxx-xxx

Subject: (none)

Message: I got over preliminaries. Ninety-three out of hundred. Pretty good for not wanting to stand out, neh?'

Reborn let out a cackle after reading that, causing the Arcobaleno to look at him. Lal, who's in her original adult form, stared at the hitman with wide eyes, same with Colonnello and Fon. Mammon didn't say anything but she did turn her head. Verde only arranged his glasses while Aria became curious.

The only one who wasn't fazed at all was Skull who knew that there's only one person who can make Reborn express emotions outwardly. He speculated that it's Tsuna who texted. Taking out his newly made phone from the tech group of Verde, Irie, Spanner, and Gianini, he searched for Tootsuki. His eyes widened when he got a hold of what was going on in there. He took out his earphones and give one bud to Reborn who rose a brow at him before putting it on.

The two didn't mind the bewildered expressions of their fellow Arcobaleno.

"- From Hall B, the first to have a high score for her dish was Hisako Arato-"

The program showed an image of a lady in white chef uniform, with red hair and brown eyes looking back to someone or something. Then they flashed how she cooked in her station, how she faced the judges, and what her dish was.

"-who made a Mutton-meat Shimotsu-o curry that earned ninety-two points. Next was Miyoko Houjou-"

Next was a girl with purple hair and eyes in a Chinese garb, stirring a big wok. She looks smart in a way. The same thing as the first, they flashed how she cooked her dish and presented her finished product.

"-with her Pineapple Fried Curry Rice that earned her eighty-seven points and the wild card for the sixth spot. Then Takumi Aldini-"

Then they presented a picture of a blond with Japanese features and green eyes, but looked Italian in a way, also white chef uniform, with a hand pressed to his chest like he's presenting himself while smiling a little. On the quick video, he was using a two handled knife with a shape of a half-moon they knew as mezzaluna to cut his pasta dough.

"-who made a Pasta Curry that got him the fourth place with ninety points. The current person who has the highest points in the preliminary is Alice Nakiri-"

Then a maiden hugging her waist while the other hand is cupping her chin, with albino features and red eyes, showed. She was smiling like she already won the competition. The quick video of her featured how she used those science equipment and what her dish looks like.

"Woah. She looks like Byakuran in a different way." Skull mumbled.

"Minus the eyes. This one has red eyes and feminine." Reborn mused.

"-who used molecular gastronomy to create a dish that cannot be compared to anything by the judges, causing her to have ninety-five points. Second to the last is Megumi Tadokoro-"

Then an imaged of a lady, with two low blue braided tails on her shoulder with brown eyes in white uniform, holding a knife. She showed concentration and determination on her features. She was cutting a goosefish in the video with memorized skills before they showed her finished dish.

"Heh. This one has good skills." Reborn mused.

"Yeah. Who cut a fish hanging? It will swing and circle around. She's probably trained on it." Skull nodded.

"-with her Goosefish Dobu-Jiru curry that gave her the fifth place of the preliminaries with a score of eighty-eight points. And lastly, Tsunayoshi Sawada-"

Tsuna's picture made him look like a professional chef. With his sleeves folded and a white apron at front, it's like he was enjoying himself with the way he smiled softly while putting finishing touches on something in front of him. He looks healthier and alive in the picture. So serene too. The short clip of his contains him cooking in a sedate pace, smiling at Megumi Tadokoro and waving at the crowd that was holding up banners with his name on them before his dish was showed.

"Here he is." Reborn said as Skull grinned widely. "Getting popular, huh?"

"-who made a purely Vegetable Tomato Curry that earned him ninety-three points and the second place in the ranks." The pictures joined six more pictures that has a label of 'Hall A'. "Who will face off in the main tournament and gain the spots of the top three finalists? This is the forty-third Autumn Election Cooking."

"Damn." Skull breathed as he removed the earphone jack from his phone and took the bud Reborn handed him. "Ninety-three points? That's so cool."

"He could've gotten a hundred, but he doesn't want to stand out." The hitman responded. "At least he passed the prelims."

"Not gonna praise him?" Skull whistled.

"I'll do that once he wins or get into the top three." The sun Arcobaleno waved off before standing up. "I need to go. Mama is expecting me for dinner."

"Ah. Me too." Skull said as he waved at them. "Need to remove some earrings and make some adjustments to my bikes. Ciao ciao."

When the two left the room, the others looked at each other.

"Did you see how Reborn looked while watching that something on Skull's phone?" Colonnello blinked. "He openly looked amazed, relieved and proud. Almost happy too."

"I can understand that it's the sudden teenage pheromones, but what made him like that?" Verde hummed as he tapped the table. "Did you get anything, Viper?"

"A cooking show." Viper answered. "They were watching a cooking show with its preliminaries done."

Aria chuckled. "Don't be hasty, please. Let's wait for him to say something. He's just waiting for a time to drop the bomb on us."

"That sounded like Reborn." Lal nodded before gazing at the spot where Skull was. "Skull's knowledge about it is rather troubling though. He was the one who roped Reborn to see the video, so it means he knew what it was."

"Just when did they become all chummy and goodie?" Colonnello remarked.

"You're just on slumps because Reborn isn't up for anything even if you invite him." Lal teased.

The blond grunted. "It's the thing! He's not even teaching Ieyasu! Just terrorizing the kid but he's saying he's busy!"

"Colonnello," Aria sighed. "Reborn still has Tsunayoshi-kun as his student. If Tsunayoshi-kun left, it is up for Reborn to keep the place peacefully. That and the thing about the title."

Silence.

"Yeah. He says don't mind Tsunayoshi since he'll come back. But when?" Lal rhetorically questioned.

Aria only hummed while looking outside the window. "The sky is rather clear today." The Arcobaleno looked at the sky she was pertaining. "He'll come back with a surprise. Doesn't Tsunayoshi-kun do that all the time?" She added on with a smile.

"Soma?"

The redhead looked up to see Tsuna by the slightly open door. "What is it, Tsuna?"

"Wanna go somewhere?"

"Ha?" He looked up to the clock. "It's already twelve am."

"We'll be back in thirty or an hour. Put on a jacket. It's going to be cold. I'll be in the backyard."

Soma blinked before removing himself from the bed. He took his jacket from the closet and put it on with the zipper. He closed the door silently behind him and tried to walk silently in the halls of the house. True to Tsuna's words, it was pretty chilly. But everyone is knocked out already after the party. He even opted to sleep in Marui's room, but he kinda wanted to be alone for a sec then go back again to sleep with the others.

Now that he thinks about it, where was Tsuna awhile ago? Everyone was present except for him. The brunet wasn't even talking when they met in the Chandra's room and went home together to the dorm. Maybe because he didn't talk too? Tsuna didn't even congratulate him nor did he to the brunet. Was he that busy thinking about his loss?

When he got to the lobby, he navigated himself to the backyard of the dorm. The door was unlocked, so he twisted the doorknob to open it. Outside, Tsuna was down to the last step of the porch, staring at the sky with a calm expression. What's different was the fact that he's wearing metal gloves and arranging them on his hands while there's an orange flame on his forehead. His eyes are orange too, like the color of the sky whenever the sun sets and rises.

He stood frozen by the threshold when orange eyes went to him. Instead of feeling intimated though, he felt... Home. He can't help smiling when he realized that whether in this form or if it's normal Tsuna, his friend will still be the same. His home.

"Is it okay to let me see you like this?" He asked as he closed the door behind him and started to descend the stairs. "It's not against the rules or something?"

"It is." The brunet's soft voice is calmer and gives that tingling calm. "But I can make an exemption. I don't think they'll mind."

"So, what are we going to do?"

"I was thinking of flying. Hop on my back?"

Soma stared at him like he was crazy. "Tsuna, I'm one-seventy-one. How the heck can you carry me on your back?"

The brunet scoffed with a roll of his eyes. "There's a reason why I do push-ups and curl-ups, Soma. And besides, I'm one-sixty-one. Same difference."

He bopped the other's head. "There's a big difference!"

"Just hop on and I'll show you."

The redhead put his arms around the brunet's shoulders from behind hesitantly. "You think this is safe?"

"It's dangerous."

"Then why do it?"

"Because it's dangerous." Soma bopped Tsuna's head with his forehead for the stupid logic. The brunet hissed in pain. "Anyway, look out for the flames."

"What-"

If it wasn't in the middle of the night and the fact that he can make the brunet deaf with how close his mouth to the other’s ear, he would've screamed in panic. But he had to hold it in because he was too surprised to do it. He buried his face on the soft mane as wind hits them. He can feel the gravity pulling them down with their combined weights defying it, but they're still levitating and not crashing.

Shit. Tsuna is magic.

"Look up, Soma." A soft coax.

He shook his head.

"I'm not gonna let you fall." Tsuna vowed. "I'll do everything to catch you if ever. Trust me, Soma. You'll love the view."

Taking a deep breath, Soma looked up. Only to see two beautiful views. The starry moonless sky that goes on and on, and the overview of full lit Tootsuki Academy. Both were exquisite, making him feel so special and happy.

He never dreamed of reaching the skies or soaring through them. He never wanted to know what the wind feels or how cold the air about hundred feet from the ground. It was all about cooking. Yet here he is, reaching the skies like he belongs. Letting the air caress his face and hair, and marveling two of the gorgeous sceneries no one can see except for those who fly.

They stayed up a little more before going down on top of Chandra's room. He was a little shaky when he detached himself from the brunet who let his other self hide again. They decided to sit on the roof of the building and stared at the sky.

"You weren't at the party?" He asked. The brunet nodded. "Why?"

"I fell asleep." Tsuna shrugged before smiling. "Probably because of the nervousness I felt this morning. Congrats on making it to the top five. Second too."

"Why? Didn't you pass too?"

"I did. I just took consideration of your situation since I know you were aiming to win."

Soma looked down to his hands that were intertwined and between his pretzel legs. "I was."

"Last year, I aimed for the same thing at every fight I encounter." He looked back to Tsuna who was still staring at the sky with wistful gaze, but no ting of melancholy he usually see when they were at the house. "I fought to protect—to get stronger. I had my ups and downs too, like getting beaten up for being weak. Getting mocked for being weak. To be taunted just because I try my hardest. I even visualized myself as a hero, but then, I realized that I couldn't save everyone. The frustration to be better built up too much that it became a burden. I know the feeling, Soma. That's why I didn't talk to you when we met here after the preliminaries. Because I know you're frustrated. That you got ninety-three and didn't tie with Hayama. It was so close but you still couldn't do it. You hid it nicely awhile ago in the party, but I know they still linger."

"I'm sorry."

"No need to be sorry." The brunet reached out for his head and ruffled his red locks. "It's part of growing up. And since I wanted you to at least feel a little bit special, I made you see the view I always see up in the sky."

Soma smiled softly. "They're beautiful."

"I know. Worth the risk, yeah?" Tsuna grinned. "You talked to Megumi-chan?"

"Yeah. Ibusaki and Marui were pretty happy. I wondered why they didn't search for you."

"I told them I'm going to rest and they should entertain you a lot so you won't mind my absent presence. It worked quite well, I think."

"You spoke to Takumi?"

A nervous chuckle went out of the brunet's lips. "Yeah. He was really baffled that I was able to get a higher score than him. He thought I was lucky and such when I survived the training camp. But his assumption was expected since he had his eyes on you from the very start."

He hummed. "It's good. He's a good rival. Even Kurokiba and Hayama. There's Alice Nakiri too. They're so many strong people I have to defeat before I can take the top."

Soma looked at the brunet who grinned. "Good then. You still have fuel to fight.” Then Tsuna let out a loud sigh. “Let's stay a little more, yeah? Before we go back?"

"Flying?"

"Yup. It's curfew, Soma. You don't want us to be detained if the securities see us walking around."

The redhead snickered. "True."

When they got back, Soma sneaked in to Marui's room and curled on the free space after Tsuna bid him good night.

He felt so rested that night that he didn't mind how early Isshiki woke him and Tadokoro up.

Chapter Text

Chapter Twenty-Three

Closing the door behind him as quietly as possible, Tsuna walked through the hallway with silent footsteps; something he learned last seven months ago. It was really hard to keep quiet in the Yukihira diner with Soma as a light sleeper. He had a few run-ins with the redhead, so he needed to learn how to walk with light steps.

Opening the main door, Tsuna closed it behind him and breathed the cool air of early morning. He went down the porch and started to do some stretching before doing some squats with legs together and his hands on his nape. He needed a hundred to hundred-fifty tops before he could move to on-spot rock climbing. He was going through his jumping-jacks when the sun rose. He didn't mind the time and went for a pushed-up position after finishing the jacks.

He was half-way on his sit-ups when the door opened and Isshiki went out, dressed in black pinstripe suit. He couldn't help himself from flopping on the grass in the yard when he remembered his great-great-great grandfather, Giotto de Vongola or also known as Ieyasu Sawada, wearing the same thing under his black majestic cape whenever they see each other or just in plain memory. He wonders how's his family in Namimori.

Then he wrinkled his nose. It's like a bad omen to be reminded.

"Tsunayoshi-kun? Do you want to come with us?" Isshiki asked while stopping to stand by his side. "Soma-kun, Tadokoro-chan and I are going to the neighboring town to do some consultation."

Tsuna's intuition hummed to decline. "Thank you, Sempai, but I think the two should go on with you alone for the day. I mean they could use some space from my presence."

"Hmm? But you aren't boring at all, Tsunayoshi-kun."

"Oh. It's not that, sempai." He answered as he sat up, chuckling a little at how that word came out wrong. "I just want them to breathe a little. I've been with Megumi-chan for four hours straight yesterday and Soma and I talked late last night. So, it will do them good to feel for themselves today." Then he blinked when his intuition hummed again. "And I think I'm going to somewhere too. So, I don't think I can come with you even without that reason, since knowing you, you can be very persistent too if given the situation."

The upperclassman smiled, as of giving in. "I realized that you must be good with children given your answer yesterday. But I'll accept your reason today."

"Thanks."

Tsuna was the first one to depart from the dorm for his run before the group went out. He did a good hour of run before he went back though. Everyone was still asleep so he took his shower and went back to his bed to rest. It was ten-am when Fumio knocked on his door and told him that a car was waiting for him. With only his mittens, pills, and a jacket with slippers as footwear, he went out to see who it was.

He didn't need the orientation when he saw a man in black suit, standing by the open door of a black car. He gestured to the Polar Star Maria a finger to his lips when he went out. Fumio zipped her lips, locked it, and threw the invisible key inside her usual apron. When Tsuna got in, the driver started to drive. As soon as they got to their destination, he only sighed. Like what he predicted (without his intuition, yehey!), he was being summoned by Senzaemon Nakiri. He greeted the usual usherette before he followed her. When they got to the usual room, the director was already there. He slipped off his slippers and stepped on the tatami mat. When he got to his place, the old man gave him a smile.

"Congratulations on passing the preliminaries, Sawada." Senzaemon praised, making Tsuna blush a little. "You have worked your hardest."

"Not as hard as the other students, Sir." He uttered when he remembered the others before smiling softly. "Regardless, thank you."

"Well then, there is someone who wants to talk to you on the phone." The director said as he gestured one of the bodyguards causing the brunet to perk up. "It's Saiba. He doesn't have any means of calling you so he called me last night."

Tsuna blinked and inclined his head to the left. "What for?"

"Ask him yourself, child. That man is so peculiar sometimes that he gives me headaches." The old man waved his hand off like he doesn't want to be part of it.

Tsuna's mind reminded him of Mukuro and Hibari. "I understand, Sir. I do have some guardians who are really headache inducing." Senzaemon Nakiri only smiled before waving his hand. The bodyguard handed a phone where a call is on-going. Tsuna took the phone and pressed it lightly on his left ear. "H-Hello?"

"Tsuna? Hey! I heard you passed the preliminaries! With the same score as Soma! Congrats kid!"

Tsuna's heart warmed at the praise. "Thank you, Saiba-san."

"Should you be calling me something other than my name?" The man on the other side teased. "I'm your father now. Call me Dad or Oyaji."

"D-Dad?" Tsuna blushed, causing the old man in front of him to grin.

"Well, you're not that disrespectful like Soma. He even calls me old man sometimes. That brat."

The brunet chuckled. "Okay, Dad."

"Welcome to the Yukihira Family, Tsuna. Huh. Tsunayoshi Yukihira has a good sound."

"Thank you." Tsuna expressed again. "Are you fine there though, Dad? You should be roaming the world, right?"

"I'm great here -Saiba? Come here, boy! Cook me another dish! -Welp. There they go. See you next time, yeah?"

"Yes. Good bye, Dad."

"Yup. Don't tell Soma I called you. He'll go grumpy and pissy."

"He was the last time." He hurriedly said causing the man to laugh before ending the call. Tsuna handed the phone to the bodyguard with a smile. "Thank you."

"I'll be one of the judges in the first round of the main tournament. I look forward on eating your dish, Sawada." The old man said.

Tsuna beamed. "I will make it delicious then, Sir Nakiri."

After their small meeting, Tsuna bid goodbye and declined the car that will return him to the dorm. He enjoyed the breeze as he walked and inspected the emotions he felt awhile ago.

With all honesty, he felt flattered. When the man praised him like a father would do, he thought he accomplished something he never had done before. Saiba's words were light and cheery, yet they give so much impact. He wondered if Iemitsu's words were like that too? Because the one time he got praised by the said man, he felt cheated because he was left to do something he didn't want to do.

Then the brunet blinked when he remembered how he felt when Reborn thanked him for giving him a second chance to live the life he thought was gone. When the hitman texted him a good job for staying alive. When he talked to Reborn after he and Soma got a misunderstanding. And when Reborn said that he exceeded the hitman's expectation with the dish he made. He feels warm and it's like everything becomes lighter. Tsuna can't help smiling and chuckling from the thought. Reborn's words were as heavy as Saiba's. They were proud and happy for both sides.

When he arrived in the dorm, Soma, Megumi and Isshiki were there already. The moment the redhead saw him entering the house, he found himself listening to the two's story about their experience that day. They were apparently caught up on teaching kids because their teacher got injured, so Isshiki invited them to come so they could teach the children how to make gyoza.

As the two kept on talking, he got to know who was Kanon-chan (the uncooperative girl that called Megumi a 'hick' and took in the two teens' efforts to make her cook), Shouta-kun (the boy with short attention span that learned how to chop after Soma riled him up), and Ai-chan (who cries easily but with Megumi's help, she gained confidence that she's doing the right thing). He even received a small container with five gyoza in it.

As he trained his eyes on the container, he can't help thinking how grateful he is to run away. Even though he looked like a coward in the eyes of Vongola and his family, he couldn't regret anything other than the things he can regret now because he feels so fortunate to have friends in here. With all his effort, not because of Reborn forcing circumstances to have people come to him but because he gained enough confidence to socialize.

Gah. He's so thankful.

"Tsuna-kun? What's wrong?" Megumi asked, a little worried.

The brunet smiled and waved his free hand. "Nothing nothing. Just thankful."

"Thankful? You looked like you were about to cry." Soma teased.

Tsuna rolled his eyes and bumped his shoulder to the redhead's. "Shut up, Mister I'll-take-the-top."

"So, you were going to cry, Mister Extra-ordinary." The other jabbed.

"Eh?" Megumi blurted, confused.

"Oh. It's a name we came up with since we came here. Like Tsuna deemed himself as an ordinary person when he's much more. So extra-ordinary."

"And you're Mister I'll-take-the-top because it's what made our fellow first years got so riled up on." Then Tsuna blinked. "What about Megumi-chan?"

Soma made a thinking face. "Well, we can use those things the alumni said when we faced of Shinomiya-sempai."

"What was it?"

"Legume fairy!" Megumi blushed after Soma said the title with an amazed expression. "Shinomiya-sempai is a Magician of Legume, so she became a fairy."

"Then Legume fairy it is." Tsuna finalized as he stood up. "Come on. We need to eat lunch. I'm starving."

"Now that you said that," Soma looked at the bluenette who was nodding. "We didn't eat breakfast too."

"Who's turn it was to cook- Ah no. It's my turn. I didn't serve you lunch yesterday." Tsuna waved off. "So, what do you want to eat?"

'To: Reborn

Subject: (none)

Message: Thank you.'

"Tsuna! Come on!" Soma called out from the side of the car.

"Am I really allowed to come? What if my battle will be the day after tomorrow?" Tsuna questioned as they slipped inside the car.

"Don't care. I'm not going anywhere without you." The redhead responded with a shrug as the driver made the car move.

"I don't know if I should commend you for that or I should shoot down that idea."

"Nah. You love me so you'll support me."

Tsuna rolled his eyes. "Right."

"You'll be there tomorrow, right?" The redhead queried, hopeful.

"Of course, I will be. I have to determine first that you'll win against your opponent before I go and get the notice. Until then, Elite ten can wait. If they call me up before your turn, I'll reconsider." He answered.

"You just said what I said awhile ago." Soma pointed out with a cheeky grin.

Tsuna was going to open his mouth when he realized that the redhead was right. He did say screw Elite ten when Soma is the one on the line. He closed it and looked away. "Whatever."

He slapped Yukihira's arm when the redhead snickered. When they arrived in the building, they were ushered to a door. Tsuna let Soma go with a promise that he'll wait outside. He resorted to reading a manga in his phone and switching apps to play games he downloaded the day before.

His intuition warned him before the door opened. He looked up to see Eizan. He only nodded to the upperclassman, who glanced at him, before he felt himself getting hugged by Alice. By then, Tsuna knew the albino is Soma's opponent. He ushered the lady inside while thinking how he should avoid Soma for the rest of the day. The redhead needs to concentrate. And probably let the redhead stay up for the night to finalize his dish.

When Soma went out with a box, the two didn't really talk. He was about to walk away the moment they entered the mansion when the redhead took his arm and started to pull him to the stairs; the box was placed on the side of the last steps.

"Wait for me outside the door, I'm going to change then you're going to help me." The redhead said as he closed the door a little.

Tsuna leaned on the wall with his arms crossed. "Won't I be a distraction?"

"Ah. Is that the reason why you weren't talking again awhile ago? Seriously, Tsuna. If you think I'm going to think, I should be telling you that." Soma shouted from the room.

"I just feel like you don't want to be disturbed since it's Alice you're up against." He replied.

"Is she any good?"

"Yeah. You didn't watch the preliminaries? She has this authentic dish that used molecular gastronomy thingy." He remembered the dish that didn't look like curry at all.

"You're really weak in Chemistry." Soma said as he opened the door and closed it behind him.

"Don't remind me." Tsuna grumbled with a scrunched expression.

They went down to the ground floor, and made their way to the kitchen after fetching the box the redhead was carrying when they got back.

"So... What's your theme?" Tsuna quizzed when he sat himself in the stool, trying to open the box.

"Bento." Soma replied with a thoughtful look. He looked so cute that the brunet has to stop his smile.

"We have a bento shop in the Sumire." Sawada chirped, remembering the shops he usually sees whenever they go out. "And there were a lot of kinds of bento in there."

"I know. I wonder how's Kurase faring. Taking care of a shop and the chairman can be a bit of work." Yukihira commented.

The two looked at each other before snickering.

"Anyway, bento. Did they give you something else other than this box of containers?" The brunet gestured to the variety of containers.

"Yeah." Then Soma pulled out a folded paper and skimmed it. "They give me a regulation. They said it has to be put in a bento box, it won't exceed thirty centimeters in width, length and height. And, the food must be able to be eaten after half a day even if the tasting will be done immediately."

Tsuna blinked. "Then it's a regular type of bento you have to eat by lunch. It reminds me of my middle school."

"You bring bento? You never eat in your cafeteria?" The other blinked while still thinking.

The brunet laughed awkwardly. His money was always burrowed by his upperclassman so he can't eat in the cafeteria. "Nope. I always have a bento with me. If not, I go on without any lunch."

"What kind of bento do you usually eat?"

"Home-made." He answered, glazed eyes looking at his left in memory. "Kaasan makes them. Sometimes, it's Reborn who has to give it to me since I'm always late for class, so I couldn't have a time picking it up from the table."

"So, you never have any proper breakfast since middle school?" The redhead asked. He nodded. "No wonder you were so skinny seven months ago."

"I was thin with small muscles from all the running and training I did." Tsuna huffed in indignation. "But yeah."

"So, you never tried any other bento?"

"I don't think so."

"Hmm." Soma hummed in thought before smiling widely. "Then problem solved."

Tsuna was about to ask what he meant when he saw Megumi coming in with a battle-face on. "Megumi-chan. Hi."

"Hello." The bluenette answered back automatically while checking some ingredients.

"Woah." Soma blinked in surprise.

"Tsuna-kun, Yukihira." Both turned to Ryouko who was making her way to them. "I see. You're going to make some test dishes?" Then she looked at the bluenette's way. "That Megumi is concentrating really hard. It's the same sort of spirit as when she's about to play ping pong."

"You're right. She's making the eyes of ‘Tohoku Hopping Hare’." Soma nodded with an intrigued expression.

Tsuna almost laughed when his mind imagined Megumi as a rabbit. Kyouya will really call the bluenette a little animal.

"Megumi is becoming stronger and stronger." Ryouko noted as they watched Tadokoro pacing around in thoughts and panic.

"If you face strong opponents, you become stronger too." Tsuna said before chuckling when Soma noticed the bluenette saying 'awawa' sound in panic.

"So, what's your theme, Yukihira? Tsuna-kun?" Ryouko asked in curiosity.

"I think my battle is the day after tomorrow." Tsuna informed.

"Mine is bento. This box is given to me by Isshiki-sempai awhile ago." Then the redhead tapped the box of containers.

"Oh, I see." Ryouko nodded as she took one of the boxes. "You can also use a layered type like this. How you use the boxes is important too."

"They said I can modify them if I want. I mean Alice Nakiri will probably come up with some kind of plan." Soma nodded.

"Wait! You're going against Alice Nakiri?!" Ryouko shouted in trepidation, causing her hands to slack on the box, so Tsuna took the initiative to catch it. "Your luck of lotteries is horrible!"

Both best friends laughed at the usual calm Ryouko's reaction.

"I'll end up against her in any round eventually. Anyway, seeing you flustered is an unusual sight, Sakaki-san." The redhead responded.

"This is no time to laugh!" Sasaki yelled before sighing. "What kind of bento do you have in mind?"

Brown eyes blinked when yellow eyes glanced at him before replying. "Nori bento."

The brunet laughed when the lady sighed in resignation. "Tsuna-kun. Do you have any say in this?"

"Nope. If Soma thinks it's the right thing to serve, he won't change his mind." He remarked before laughing again when he earned another sigh of resignation.

"Why do you look so exhausted, Sakaki?" Soma asked.

"Why wouldn't I?! Why cheap Nori bento when you have a lot of option to choose from?!"

"Why don't you try it first?" Yukihira asked as he removed his towel from his wrist and smiled. "Besides, it's my time to make lunch, right, Tsuna?"

"Yup. Do well." Tsuna bid as he waited with Ryouko. "So Ryouko-chan, where's Marui-san and Shun?"

Soma stared at the authentic dish on the TV. It was the dish Alice made in their block at the course of the preliminaries. Well, it's not like he hadn't thought of a plan already after what Sakaki hinted him.

What block was Tsuna again? He didn't notice Tsuna on the tape since he focused on Alice Nakiri. He didn't really get to taste the brunet's curry at the end since he was so absorbed on his personal lose and got full with all the tasting he did and after eating Hayama's curry. His mind went back to Sawada who excused himself after eating the bento he made. The brunet was smiling when he went out, but Soma knew there was something on the other's mind. Sawada was teary eyed when he went out of the kitchen.

"We should turn off the TV." Sakaki suggested while reaching for the remote.

"Can we finish the whole tape? I want to see what Tsuna made." He asked.

The lady stared at him before nodding slowly and pressed play. "Okay. Well, Tsuna-kun served after Megumi was judged."

"What did Tadokoro make?" He asked as he trained his eyes on the screen which showed the newly presented curry.

"It's Goosefish Dobu-Jiru curry." Sakaki answered as they watched the judges eat and give comments. "She cut the goosefish herself."

Soma clapped when the bluenette got an eight-eight.

"Ah. This one is Tsuna-kun's." The lady said when a Chinese tureen was showed on the TV. "It's a pure vegetable tomato curry with coconut milk. He was the only one who made an aroma bomb in block B like you and Hayama-san did in our block."

"Ha?" Soma blurted as he watched the judges open the lid then freeze for a sec. He can even see the shock faces of the other cooks behind Tsuna.

"Yeah. The aroma of his food was kept inside the tureen. Megumi and Yuki described the smell as something sweet, like a dessert. In close inspection of the judges, they said the rice was cooked with pandan leaves."

"Pandan leaves?"

"It's a kind of plant that is naturally fragrant. Like bay leaves, but sweeter. Like when you smell vanilla? But their smell is different. It can be used in any dish but mostly on rice and cakes. It puts green color on desserts. They said that with the rice scented with the leaves, your mind will keep on thinking that the rice tasted sweet. In general, the taste of his curry was a bomb inside the mouth as well, according to Orie Sendawara. She said it was sweet, salty, sour, bitter, spicy and creamy. The sourness came from the lemon, the sweetness of tomato, spiciness of cayenne and paprika and creaminess of the coconut oil. The bitterness came from mace that he boiled a little longer before removing. The vegetables he used were eggplant, cauliflower, carrot, potato, squash and chayote."

"Chayote?" Woah. He's learning a lot of things with Tsuna's dish.

"Hayatouri. It's a vegetable that has edible stalks, leaves, flowers, and the vegetable itself. He got it from the backyard. What was really amazing on his dish was the use of big soybeans as meat."

Soma stared at the small pieces of meat that was shown on the screen.

"Orie Sendawara even offered him to come with her but he declined. The judges said his curry could gain more points if he made it more flavorful."

"What's his score?"

"Ninety-three. Just like yours."

Soma's mind went on gear. If Tsuna made it more flavorful, he could've gotten higher points. Maybe surpassing Hayama? But why didn't Tsuna do it?

Is it possible that Tsuna is a greater cook than he is?

Chapter Text

Chapter Twenty-Four

Tsuna stared at the envelope in his hand. "So, I get salad."

"Dinner salad, to be exact." Eizan answered from his perch.

He was going to say 'same difference' but he mummed. "No conditions? Anything?"

"No." The upperclassman smiled, causing Tsuna's left eye to twitch as his intuition hummed.

He shrugged instead of pressing for answer. He can just wait for his opponent. "Okay."

He's here in the ninth seat's office, which was Etsuya Eizan's in general. He's one of the three organizers who came up with the themes of the dishes they will need to make and present to the judges.

Honestly, he cannot feel easy with this man's presence and being there alone. Whenever he sees the upperclassman or hear the guy's name in general, he remembers Reborn's message about some people searching about his personal information. Eizan must be really searching for a way to blackmail him or bribe him since his tutor hadn't say anything. Regardless, he needs to be careful on making him back away with any means.

"Congratulations on making it to the tournament, Sawada. You and Yukihira are formidable." Eizan praised lightly.

He gave the fakest charming smile he could muster. "Thank you, Eizan-sempai. We'll try our best to be get through this first round."

The brunet's smile gave an edge when he noticed a nerve on the upperclassman's forehead getting prominent before it slowly went away. "I heard you're a son of a housewife."

Tsuna's intuition clicked here and there, causing him to relax further. "Yes. What about it?"

"Your information is secured not only here in the academy but also outside." The ninth seat said flippantly. Tsuna thanked the heavens for giving him Shoichi, Spanner and Verde. "Why?"

"I don't know." He said in an innocently clueless tone. "But why are you researching about me, Sempai? I mean my tutor had told me there are some people lurking around my hometown and asking things to the folks there about me." He smirked a little when the upperclassman stilled. "Too bad the prefect caught them and extracted some information."

"Who are you?" Eizan asked with edge in his tone.

Tsuna went near the table and took a pen before taking the notepad that was nearby. "It won't be nice if you suddenly hear the words from my mouth. You'll probably won't work well if I do." He put the pen on the holders and placed the pad faced down to the table. "We won't want that, do we?"

Eizan was about to get the notepad and open it when Tsuna's opponent opened the door. The brunet's face lit up as he watched Shun walked in. He waved at the teen who raised a hand in greeting. They made a high-five before swiftly slapping their hands again downwards after making their arms fall. He laughed when the auburn smiled in satisfaction. They had been perfecting that greeting since a week ago.

"We're having salad party tomorrow." Tsuna broke the news before gesturing to Eizan who was watching them. "Go on. Make him explain."

Eizan glared at him behind the glasses, as if he got the gist the brunet was ‘cooking’. "You're the fifth match for tomorrow and your theme is as what Sawada had said, salad. Dinner salad with dressings. It can be Japanese or western or any kind."

Tsuna smirked tauntingly at the upperclassman behind Shun. Damn. Reborn will be really proud of him.

"Huh. And we'll be cooking for lunch." Shun commented.

"After the first match, right?" He noted before nodding to their upperclassman. "Thanks, Eizan-sempai. We'll be going now." Then he gave a bow with Shun.

When they got to the stadium, he let the auburn go first. When Shun was out of sight, he started to chortle. The upperclassman's face was really funny. It's like he was experiencing a constipation. What more if he suddenly got a hold of where he was affiliated to?

The first match between Houjou and Marui were ending when he went in. He was by the back since he couldn't find a good seat to sit. He went 'o' when Senzaemon Nakiri went out of his seat, took the big brush from one of those naked men on the side, wet the tip with a black ink and started to write in the white paper as if he was fired up. It almost reminded of what he does whenever he gets shot by dying will.

It was Miyoko Houjou who won. When the second match was announced, he smiled. It was Soma's and Alice's turn. He started to wander around to see if he could have any seat near the railing so he could cheer on Soma. That kid needs a cheerer even if he says he doesn't (not like Soma did say that because as long as Tsuna's the one cheering, he won't mind).

"Aren't you gonna cheer your best friend on?" He looked back to see Hayama leaning on the wall, green eyes on him. "He's up next."

"I am." Tsuna answered as he flapped his arms in panic. "But I can't see any good seat near the railings so I could cheer him on."

"You can go to your dormmates." The other suggested, nodding to the group of people at other side.

"But they're on the other side." He complained then blinked. "Hey. It's easy to complain to you, Hayama-san. I don't even feel nervous around you."

"Huh." The dark-skinned teen blurted.

"I know right." He nodded.

"Come on. Let's go down so you can look at any seat." Hayama urged.

"Okay okay." Tsuna responded as he followed the teen.

They went down to the railings and looked for a seat. They saw two empty ones near the judges' side. Tsuna scrunched his face in thought of whether he should shut up or cheer. He looked at Hayama who was saving his seat while seating on the other available one. The teen eyed him questioningly. Right there, Tsuna decided to forgo his dignity to shout.

(What? It was Hayama who asked him to cheer on Soma.)

When Soma made his appearance, Tsuna cupped the corner of his mouth and shouted the redhead's name when everyone was just quiet. They all looked at him, even the judges craned their heads to eye him. But his eyes were on the redhead who was searching for him. He called out the redhead's name again. When yellow met brown, he raised a hand and waved it. Yukihira beamed at him.

When Alice Nakiri entered, all of them groaned in despair for the redhead's luck; thinking he'll lose. Tsuna rolled his eyes and cupped his mouth again.

"Go Soma! You can do it!" He shouted again with a smile, making the redhead look at his way again and smile too. "Show them what you're made of! Go Soma!"

"Thanks Tsuna!" The redhead shouted back with a raise of his hand where the towel was tied.

"Ow. Tsuna-kun! Not gonna cheer for me?" Alice pouted.

Tsuna laughed before shouting an answer. "Sorry, Alice-chan! I'm rooting for Soma but good luck!"

Soma laughed when Alice pouted more.

"You sure are a game changer." Hayama commented from behind him.

The brunet rested his arms on the railing and smiled as the announcer started the timer and both cooks moved to do their own dishes. "I try my best to be supportive, Hayama-san. We fight for the things that are important to us. Like Shiomi-sensei for you."

Hayama stared at him. "How did you know that?"

He knocked on his head with a cheeky smile. Not that he'll tell the other that it was so obvious and he heard other students talking about who Hayama is fighting for. "Intuition."

As the cook off proceeded, Tsuna watched while thinking of what he should do for his match tomorrow. A dinner salad. There are variety of dish he could make. Dinner salad is usually served prominently in the Western continents. It contains poultry and cheese most of the time. It's pretty broad since there are varieties of ingredients to choose from.

He moved his lips to the side as Soma started to toy a cheap candy. He can recognize the candy since he bought some when he was a child because he wanted to try it. Last night, he stayed up with Soma so the redhead has someone to be with while experimenting. But for some reason, the redhead felt different yesterday. Not distracted, just thoughtful and always looking at him.

The brunet discreetly touched the lower part of his eyes. Maybe Soma heard him cry when he excused himself? He couldn't help it. Bento was one of the things he enjoyed with his guardians in Namimori before it slowly dwindled to eating his lunch alone behind the sports club building. It hurts him how he felt so lonely and pathetic that time. But yesterday, Tsuna felt amazing because Soma made him special again. Because he felt like that bento was made for him.

Tsuna dubbed the corner of his eyes with the lower parts of his thumbs before focusing on the battle and his dish for tomorrow. Gah. He almost teared up.

The match went down to Soma being the victor for being able to grasp what a bento really is. Something that can be enjoyed. Alice's bento was good, but it was more of sophistication. He sat back after cheering a lot, and massaged his throat. He hopes he doesn't get a hoarse voice later.

"Try drinking boiled ginger with honey later." Hayama advised. "It's a good remedy for sore throats."

He beamed.

"Don't give me that look. You have to cheer louder for Yukihira since I'm gonna defeat him." The other huffed, looking away.

He narrowed his eyes on the teen before smiling again. "Soma will win."

Hayama smirked. "That's some faith."

"That's what friends are for." Tsuna answered before patting the other's shoulder. "Good luck to you too."

When Megumi went in, Tsuna cheered as loud as their dormmates. He was watching and thinking about his theme when he felt his phone vibrate. He took it out of his pocket and looked at it. A message from Soma. He opened it up and read the content with curiosity. It's not every day that he gets a text from the redhead when they're usually together.

"Hayama-san, I'm going." He bid as he patted his mittens and pills before slipping the phone on a different pocket. "Who are you going to fight tomorrow?"

"Hisako Arato." Hayama replied.

"Oh. Good luck. You two are going to battle on the same field." He wished before moving for the stairs.

"What about you?" He looked back to see green eyes staring at him at their corners. "Who's your opponent?"

"Shun Ibusaki. The smoke prince." He answered before a thought crossed his mind. "You can watch us after your match." Then he ran up to the stairs.

He ran around the venue to get to where their dormmates were. When he was getting near, he saw Soma, who was by the corridor; waiting for him with the same bento box he presented to the judges in hands. He stopped running and stared at the redhead who looked back to him. The redhead has this determined expression on his face that scared Tsuna a little.

What is he determined about?

"Here. You haven't eaten lunch, right?" Soma asked as he handed the container.

"Y-Yeah." The brunet answered as he took the offered bento and the chopsticks. "Is there something wrong?"

"No. Nothing at all." The redhead answered as they sat on the free seat behind the students who are watching Tadokoro and Kurokiba's cook off. "Did you get your theme for tomorrow?"

"Yup. It's dinner salad." He answered while opening the bento and placed them on the seat. "Itadakimasu." Then he started to eat.

Tsuna had to take a deep breath as he ate. He feels so special for eating something like this. He can feel his heart thrumming in warmth. It was far tastier than yesterday. He even had to scrub his eyes with his sleeves to remove the tears that were threatening to fall.

To eat a bento again with a friend... He felt so special.

"Why are you crying?" Soma asked softly. Not worried, just asking. The kind of questioning he appreciates from the redhead. "You cried yesterday too."

"Before I came here..." Tsuna sniffed, trying to contain the pain that is starting to blossom on his gut. "I was left to fend myself. I had friends I ate bento with; but things happened and the last time I ate a bento was before I left the town. I don't remember if I ate all of them or I only ate fourth, but I know I was alone."

"What happened?"

Tsuna laughed a little, hollow and pained as he recalls everything before shaking his head. "I was replaced by my twin. Anyway, yesterday, I kinda remembered how it felt to be lonely. But today, eating this again, you made me feel special. Eating a bento with someone again; I missed that."

Soma gave him a half hug. "I'll never leave you alone, Tsuna. Even if we part ways at some point, I'll always call you."

"Thank you, Soma." He breathed before they parted. He gave a smile. "Thank you."

He got a grin in return.

Tsuna grinned evilly as he stared at the drooling picture of Soma. The redhead was asleep when he left the dorm. Yukihira was pretty tired yesterday since he needed to stay up for his bento idea, so he needed to sleep in. Who knows if the redhead is awake now.

The brunet raised his arms heavenwards and stretched as much as he could. He feels sleepy too since he has been thinking of what kind of dinner salad should he make until midnight, and started to do some testing till four. He snickered when he remembered the picture he sent to Reborn. The hitman will really demand him to make the salad he will do today. That guy is a sucker for good western dishes.

He brought his arms down when he saw Hayama coming in. He gave a smile from his spot on the bench and a lazy wave. The guy looked a little exhausted; however, who wouldn't be? Everyone who fights in that stage will get exhausted with all the thinking you'll need and the cooking you'll do.

"Good job. You made it!" Tsuna said with an exaggerated throw of his hands. "Yehey!"

"Shut up." Hayama snapped without heat. The brunet only chuckled. "You're up next."

"Yeah." He stood up and took his case and white apron. "I'm gonna make some dinner salad, would you want some?"

"I'm not a fan of it."

Tsuna shrugged. "No prob. Anyway, bye bye."

The brunet waved a hand to Hayama who only stared at him. He walked out to the stadium and closed his eyes a little from the light. It was blinding. When he got to the stage, he placed his knife case to the kitchen before standing by the side, waiting for Shun to show up.

The auburn did show up with his white chef uniform. Truly, Tsuna felt outdressed with his white long sleeve polo tucked under his black slacks. But he doesn't mind. He can't move with the usual white chef uniform nor can he afford it since he's low on money these days.

(Really. Even his intuition kept on vibrating 'bad omen' in his mind.)

He stood there, hand on the edge of the kitchen while Shun was on the same spot, arranging the sleeves of his white top. Tsuna smiled at the auburn who nodded back. They'll have to give it their all since Shun will not want to fight someone who's half-hearted and they don't have to be scored by numbers. So, he can go all out, thinking that every judge is the perfectionist Reborn with gun totting Leon. He's already shuddering at the painful criticism he'll gets if he serves something stupid.

"Now, the fifth match of the first round..." The emcee announced.

Tsuna took his time to take his apron and put it on.

"Begin cooking!"

On cue, they moved. Tsuna pouted as he shuffled around his mind for the right song to hum. He grinned when he remembered Lambo's song. The kid... Seriously. A conceited obnoxious child with a subtle kind heart and childish wonder. He missed his ex-lightning guardian.

Putting the pan he needs to use on the counter, he sauntered to the pantry for the ingredients with a basket. Most of them were there; some weren't which he was carrying with him. He did get a hold that the next match will serve desserts so he'll have to make a good dinner salad. He had been thinking what kind of dinner salad would Reborn wanted to eat. It was something he almost forgot since he was so absorbed on the thought of what to make. (He shuddered at the thought of forgetting Reborn. He'll die if the hitman gets a hold of that thought.) So, he really stayed up late doing things with Reborn's demon mode in mind.

He looked over Shun who was starting his wood. Not really well-verse with how smoking does, he kept an eye on what the auburn will do while doing his own thing. Hey. It's fun watching people cook as much as he likes to cook.

"Hello Sawada-san!" Tsuna looked up to see the cameraman smiling at him. "Do you have anyone to say hello since you're one of the crowd's favorites?"

The brunet tilted his head to the right with a thoughtful look as he stopped marinating the salmon. It's so nice he talked with Ikumi about marination that one time. "Well," He looked at the camera and smiled brightly. "Hello, Reborn! If you're watching, I'll really try my best to cook this for you! Thank you!"

"You're welcome." The cameraman smiled back before moving away.

Tsuna giggled. Reborn will be so pissed.

He's torn between throttling the brunet or praising him for making him salivate on the forming salad the child is making. He had to gulp a lot of time and satiate his craving with the picture of the salad. Fuck it. Just why does Tsuna have to pick up his teasing attitude of all things to learn?

He glared at Skull who was snickering beside him. They're streaming the same video to see how Tsuna will fare with the salad theme. Reborn didn't teach the brunet how to make salads, but he did brief him how it goes. It was one of the things he was craving for years but he couldn't bare for his student to make it since he doesn't want him to suffer. And they didn't have much time to do it after Iemitsu and Ieyasu came.

In his mind, he's already listing the things he wants Tsuna to make. Payback is not that sweet if the receiving end doesn't suffer right.

"Oh. His opponent served first." Skull said as the auburn teen, Shun Ibusaki, served his own salad dish.

"Hmm. Smoked salmon, potatoes, tomatoes, peanuts and cheese with arugula and avocado." Reborn mused. "Interesting."

"He made a ponzu dressing." Skull nodded. "It does look tasty. Western salad with Japanese dressing."

"Alder woods are good for smoking." The hitman commented after he heard the auburn's answer why the smoked ones tasted sweet. "But apple wood chips are naturally sweet. If you burn them, they'll have a good taste. It's a good choice."

"Huh. If you rate it from one to ten stars, what will it be?"

"Probably three. The ponzu dressing is brilliant. Ibusaki must be really conversant about the smoking method of cooking. This can be one of his specialties or his already."

"He is the smoking prince according to them. Oh. Look. Tsuna looks really amazed." Skull snickered. "I never saw him look like that before."

"Have you seen Yukihira yesterday? He had the same expression. He must've got it from that kid." He scoffed. 'And probably learned the food teasing from the redhead too.'

"Positive reviews, but bad news, he couldn't make the director strip. Ah. Tsuna's next."

Reborn cursed when the brunet served the dishes and smiled cheekily to the camera with a peace sign. That brat is going to get it next time.

Chapter Text

Chapter Twenty-Five

"So what did you make for us, Sawada?" Senzaemon Nakiri asked as he peered at the brunet who was smiling serenely at them.

"Autumnal salad with pan seared salmon and mixed countries dressing." Tsuna introduced with a teasing grin after he served his dishes. "Please, dig in."

Senzaemon took his fork. He stared at the intricately plated dish in front of him. The salmon is on top of mixed elements of cheese, farro, arugula, sweet potato and more that he cannot determine until he tastes it. Cutting the salmon, he picked it up and put it on his mouth. The inside of his mouth tingled from black pepper, salt, soy sauce, lemon, sesame and rosemary. The salmon was pretty much seared with sesame oil and rosemary after being marinated by black pepper, salt, soy sauce and lemon. But it still has this distinctive taste...

"Chum salmon." Oizumi stated. "You used chum salmon to give out autumn."

Senzaemon's brow furrowed a little. It is chum salmon but it's still lacking. Like the child put something different on it.

"Very fine seared." Saotome commented with a nod. "Let's go for the salad, shall we."

Senzaemon glanced at the child but Sawada was only smiling, humming a little under his breath. He looked down at the salad before taking some of the components he can fit on the fork and put them on his mouth. There's farro, goat cheese, sweet potato, black berry and apple. When he took another one, his mind got enlightened with the new elements he identified. Instead of arugula, there's mizuna. There's squash, but a kabocha which was mixed with the mashed sweet potato. There are bite sized taro, matsutake mushroom, and small bits of cauliflower. And some tidbits of roasted nuts here and there.

"This isn't just nuts, is it?" One of the judges among them asked.

"It's Kuri, or we know as Japanese chestnuts, sir." Sawada answered. "It occurred to me that nuts aren't usually roasted in our country, so to give it a crunchy taste, I roasted the chestnuts."

"I identified all our autumn vegetables here in Japan." Oizumi said with a small laughter. "Sweet potato, taro, matsutake mushroom, kabocha and kuri as you said. You didn't use arugula, but mizuna instead. Instead of blue cheese, you added goat cheese."

"But there's also autumn fruits and vegetables from the other countries, such as cauliflower, apple and blackberry." Saotome observed too.

Senzaemon eyed the bottled dressing. "We cannot forget the dressing, gentlemen."

He took the dressing and put some on his dish. He mixed the salmon and the salad that he could fit on the spoon before putting it inside his mouth. As he tasted the new flavours, his mind compared it to a sight of Canada's autumn season while wearing his yukata and strolling around with maple leaves falling on him.

He couldn't stop himself from stripping. It's like he ate three different things with determined flavors, but when combined, there's a whole new level. Such talent.

"The director stripped!"

"Another strip! The second time!"

"What did you put in the dressing, Sawada?" One of the judges asked.

The brunet blinked. "Sudachi, rice vinegar, shiso, thyme, extra-virgin oil, small amount of chilli and maple syrup mixed to sake."

"No wonder it took me to Canada!" Oizumi exclaimed.

"How did you sear the salmon?" Saotome asked again.

"I used the pan where I roasted the chestnuts and put rosemary in it after adding a little more oil. May I?" The young man questioned, as if asking permission to continue how he did the whole dish.

"Please." Senzaemon answered. He admittedly didn't see any of the teen's talent because he got hooked on the auburn's smoking skills.

"I boiled the sweet potato and kabocha in separate pots but with the same spices. I sauteed the matsutake, taro and cauliflower in the pan I used to fry the salmon. The salmon was marinated with sudachi, sugar, black pepper, salt, small amount of soy sauce. The apples and blueberries were soaked in water with salt. The mizuna was washed and seasoned too. That's the autumnal salad with pan seared chum salmon and mixed countries dressing." The brunet explained like he was reading a text before smiling cheekily.

Senzaemon grinned. "I assume it's designed for someone."

"Ah. Yes. Although the sweet potato was inspired by someone else, I thought the salad will make this specific person happy since I taught myself how to do it." Sawada answered, his smile going soft. "With this, he'll probably give me a hard time."

Nakiri grinned as well before standing up and took the brush that was handed to him. "Then it's decided..."

He put the brush on the big white paper and started to write the brunet's name. But instead of writing the usual surname, he put the family name he will only write in this way at this kind of event. Everyone gasped after he was done and the paper was hanged up.

"The winner is Tsunayoshi Yukihira!"

Tsuna laughed at his new name. He can already hear Soma shouting that he's the brother.

He smiled at the camera with a peace sign before deciding to go back to his station. He removed his apron and ran to Shun. The auburn raised his hand and he gave in. They high fived and did a low one before he took the other in his arms. Shun hugged back.

"You were awesome." He whispered.

"Not as much as you." Shun responded before they parted. "Can you make that salad later this evening? I want to eat some of it."

"Sure. No prob." Then he poked the other's tummy. "It was a nice fight. Thank you."

Shun nodded with a smile then quirked an eyebrow (although he can't really see it). "But really? Yukihira? Are you twins now?"

He laughed. "Ask Saiba-san. He adopted me."

They both took their knife cases.

"Since when?"

"After I passed the prelims. Don't tell Soma."

He can almost see the auburn roll his eyes. "With that banner posted there? He already knows."

The two proceeded to go out of the stage. Tsuna let Shun part from him since he knew the other is frustrated with his lose. When he went to the others, he blinked at the sudden announcement of Shokugeki between Takumi and Subaru Mimasaka. When Shun got to them, he explained what kind of person this Subaru Mimasaka is. Apparently, Mimasaka investigated his opponents thoroughly. From lifestyle, habits, hobbies and background. He uses provocation on his opponents to make their battle a Shokugeki. He had won ninety-nine Shokugeki and collected the same number of knives. And right now, Takumi is betting his mezzaluna after being angered.

Tsuna roamed his eyes around the noisy stadium then landed on the dark corner. He can see a glint of glass. His intuition hummed at his guess. It's not even that hard to say that Mimasaka is under Eizan.

"What do you think, Tsuna?" Soma whispered from his spot beside the brunet, a little away from the others.

"Takumi will lose." He answered honestly, intuition working. "With him that angry? He won't be thinking straight, and he won't be able to make any improvisation on the spot."

"It is hard to improvise on spot." The redhead answered.

"True. But if you're ten steps ahead of him, you'll get it." The brunet rested his arms on the railings, watching the battle on the stage. "I'm his bad match."

"Why so?"

"Eizan-sempai doesn't have any information on me. In another words, Mimasaka doesn't have much information on me other than the usual things I do. So, you'll be the one facing him." He looked back to the redhead who is watching everything too. "Eizan-sempai wants us expelled. But I'm too mysterious for him while you’ve agitated a lot of students since day one. The question is, what do you plan on doing, Soma-chan?"

"That's a thought to digest." Soma hummed.

Tsuna chuckled as he eyed the fight. "Good luck with that. I'll support you through out."

The brunet made an 'ooff' sound when the redhead hugged him from behind while laughing. "I know you'll do."

In the end, it was Subaru Mimasaka who won. The teen made his own planned improvisation on the dessert Takumi was making. It was what Tsuna had expected but it still made him a little annoyed. Dirty way of playing. He even preferred Daemon Spade over that guy. At least that ghost has some creativity. (He will apologize to Chrome and Mukuro on that.)

Gold eyes under glasses met orange-ish brown ones. Tsuna kept his face neutral as he watched the upperclassman's expression while holding the mic. He can see a slight tension and apprehension. Good. He knew what Vongola means. All he has to do is keep Soma safe. At least he could use the mafia for protection from ordinary people. Yankee? Pft. That's no problem to the Varia.

"All the matches in the first round of the Autumn Election are finished." The upperclassman announced, silencing everyone and Mimasaka who was threatening the girls. "The second round will be held in a day. The brackets will be decided by the end of the day and we'll notify everyone by then. That's all."

Tsuna got hauled by Soma out of the stadium. He didn't say anything and waved at everyone who was asking them why they're not saying anything to Takumi who was defeated in an unfair manner. When they got to the mansion, the two parted ways. Tsuna went to his room to get some clothes to shower. He was followed by a worried Megumi all the way.

"Tsuna-kun. You're not going to say anything to Takumi-san?" Megumi asked from the door.

He blinked as he put the clothes in one hand and looked at the lady. "With all honesty, I want to go to him. But that will be insensitive of me. He just lost his round; I won mine. Soma won his. I'll only rub my win on his face. Yes. He was defeated in an unfair way, but that is how Mimasaka cook. If there is someone who will defeat him and change that," He pointed a finger to the ceiling. "It will be Soma because they'll face each other on the second round."

"But..." Tadokoro looked down to the floor with a thought before nodding. "You're right. It will be insensitive of us to go and comfort Takumi-san. We need to lay things down a bit before we go to him. I'll tell the others."

"You do that, I'll freshen up a bit."

Tsuna didn't really soak himself in the bath. He just took a quick shower and donned his comfy sweat shirt and pants. He was going out of the bathroom when Shun and Megumi ran pass him. He shrugged after he followed them with his eyes and started to walk for Soma's room. When he got there, everyone is pressing their ears on the door. Curious, he went near them and pressed his ear too.

"What are we listening on?" He asked the others.

"Mimasaka is inside Yukihira's room." Ryouko answered worriedly.

He nodded in understanding before removing himself from the door. "Oh. Well, if I may? I want to have some of the beef stew Soma made awhile ago. It's my turn to cook but he was a little considerate."

"Oh. Sure." Yuki said and moved away with Ikumi.

When Tsuna opened the door, he was greeted with a demure normal looking room visitation between Soma and Mimasaka. He closed the door behind him when the redhead nodded at the pot by the counter. He heard the others outside shout in shock of how he casually went in.

Meh.

"Mimasaka said you're paired up with Houjou. And the theme is Western Style dishes." Soma informed as the brunet took a plate and started to put some of the food on it from the pot. "We're betting some things here after I accepted his challenge for Shokugeki."

"What did you bet?" Tsuna asked as he stifled a yawn. He's pretty tired. He did stay up all night.

"He's betting the mezzaluna if he loses, and takes my knife if he wins." The redhead answered nonchalantly.

"That's kinda unfair." The brunet commented as he rested his hip on the counter and took his spoon. "Don't you think so? I mean, Takumi treasures his knife. He can't just bet it like he thinks you'll get angry for beating Takumi with cheap tricks." Then he took some stew and ate.

"Yeah. So, I said I want the whole ninety-nine knives he took if I win. But if I lose," Yellow eyes looked at Mimasaka with a smile. "I'll quit being a cook."

Silence.

"That does balance everything." The brunet nodded along as he swallowed. "After you quit, you won't be able to shoulder the diner-"

"-And I won't be standing in a professional kitchen anymore." Then Soma blinked. "I can be anything I want."

"You can do sports." Tsuna suggested as he sat on the counter, raising a spoon filled with soup and piece of beef. "Or be an accountant or a businessman."

Yukihira nodded like a sage. "Or a lawyer. I can even be a diplomat."

"Don't you know how serious this is, Sawada?!" Mimasaka exclaimed as he stood up to emphasize his point. "Yukihira is betting his whole dream, and you're just tossing it around like you're playing a tennis game?!"

"Why? Do you?" Tsuna asked back as he swallowed what he was chewing. "It's a Shokugeki. Equivalent exchange is needed. He wins, he gets the knives. He loses, his life as a cook is gone. I'm not the one stating things here, Mimasaka-san. I'm only repeating what Soma said to you just awhile ago. Do you think I can control his life? Besides, he doesn't need to trouble himself with those thoughts."

He and Soma made a low five when the redhead laid his hand to him.

"I just have to be the one who should win between the two of us. Simple." Soma shrugged before smiling as he pointed a finger on his plate. "By the way, this is what I'm gonna make for the Western Style main dish. I don't want to trouble you on thinking what I'm gonna do."

The brunet had to cover his lips with his spoon when he saw how Mimasaka's face fell in astonishment. "Oh man. I think you broke him."

"Do you want me to say the ingredients too?" Soma asked him, teasing.

"What's the surprise in there if you do?" He asked back, only to wrinkle his nose. "Right. There's no secret around Mimasaka."

"At any rate," The big man coughed on his fist. "I'll thoroughly investigate the dish you're making. Saying the first thing that comes in your mind like that is-"

"Ah-ah." Tsuna cut off. "Let Soma think about that Mimasaka-san. You don't want to waste your effort."

"And it's a beef stew contest." The redhead replied before smiling. "But you know, I actually admire you in a way, Mimasaka. To think you can recreate what Takumi was planning to make. You can't do that without being incredibly skilled. But why do you have stupid challenges?"

"It was one of those stupid challenges that Aldini utterly lost. I completely surpassed him as a cook-"

"You're wrong." Tsuna said as he put his plate on the side since his hands are terribly shaking. To take lightly of such effort... To do so much to refine your own kind of dishes. "You didn't surpass him even a little bit."

"You only skimmed the surface of Takumi's effort." Soma added as he stood up and touched his knife case that was near the brunet. "You're so pitiable. You don't know the joy of cooking."

"Maybe that's the reason why you laugh at those matches you win." Sawada leaned back, hands on the edge of the counter he's seating on as he stared at Mimasaka who's stupefied on both of them. "You thought you're already a cook just because you know how to chop the ingredient, whisk the white eggs to make a meringue. Just because you know how to make your opponent's dish tastier than his."

"You just steal your opponent's pride with artificial win." Soma continued as he opened his case. "We'll never accept a cook like that." The redhead stepped aside as he showed his kitchen knives. "If one knife isn't enough. Even if I have to bet all of myself as a cook, I will defeat you, Subaru Mimasaka."

"Then I'll go even further and trace you perfectly." Mimasaka countered with a smirk of his own while closing the mezzaluna's case. "Our Shokugeki is established then."

The big teen removed the lock of the door and was about to open it when Tsuna called him out.

"Mimasaka-san." The brunet called as he guided Soma's hand to close the case.

"Yes, Sawada?"

"Kindly tell him he's done for in this round." He said with a smile. "I told him not to do something stupid since he's smart. Who thought even smart people are stupid?"

Mimasaka only stared at him in confusion before he went out, closing the door behind him.

"I'll cook breakfast tomorrow." Tsuna said as he stocked all three plates and the cups. "Rest well and think what you're going to do for your stew."

"What about Takumi?" The redhead asked as he sat on the bed, waiting for the others to attack him after the brunet goes out.

"I'll visit him tomorrow and make Isami cook with me." He answered as he moved to the door. "Takumi and I may not be that close but I treasure acquaintances as much as my friends."

The redhead sighed with a smile. "I know. Thank you, Tsuna."

"No problem, Soma." He beamed before going out and gestured the dumbstruck people inside. "Go ahead."

"Yukihira!"

Soma stared at the brunet who's eating while reading the things written on the newspaper he brought with him. He can see the suppressed smile the other is holding while reading some articles about the redhead. Yukihira pouted and put his utensils down. He crossed his arms and stared at Tsuna who didn't even look up to the noise he made. He sighed, but the only ones who looked at him were their dormmates.

"Fine. Laugh." He sulked.

Brown eyes eyed him before smiling. "Don't sulk, Soma. I'm only laughing at how cheap these writers are. They kept on dissing you for just being yourself. I guess accepting they're weak on many places hurts that much."

"It's not my fault that I want to take the top."

"If you didn't say it in the ceremony, it won't be."

The redhead groaned. "Which side are you?"

"Your side." The brunet folded the newspaper and set it aside. "Why don't you give that middle schooler a chance? In that way, people will see you in a new light."

The redhead made a face. "What if he's a spy?"

"What if he isn't?" Tsuna questioned back. "Mimasaka most probably works alone since to be able to read a person properly, you have to spend time observing them, right? Like after spending seven months with you, I got some of your quirks. They even said we have the same grin now. Give the kid a chance, Soma. Gourmet reporters cook too, but they specialize on seeing what kind of food will hype up people for the long run."

Soma made a thinking face. "If I give him a chance, will you cook that curry you made in the prelims later in dinner?"

Those who were in Hall A in the prelims became attentive. They didn't experience what Tadokoro and Yoshino had with Tsuna's curry.

"You want to taste that? It's only ninety-three and it's not that-"

"You promised me you'll make me eat it."

"And yet, I heard from someone that a certain brother of mine ate Hayama-san's curry." Tsuna retorted that made the listeners snicker. "But fine. I'll make it. But after I come back."

Soma threw his hands with a beaming smile. "Yehey!"

"I thought they were going to have a fight there." Yuki winced to Ryouko and Megumi as the twins of Polar Star went to the kitchen side by side to wash their plates and glasses.

"Don't start with me. I don't even know if Mito-san will forgive the both of them." Ryouko sighed when she remembered how Ikumi Mito walked out after a little explanation from Soma.

"But Tsuna-kun is right." Megumi said, her hands on the side of her empty plate. "If there's anyone who can defeat Mimasaka, it's Soma-kun since he's the most creative one in the competition, other than Tsuna-kun. He'll surely be able to beat him even if he's just starting to plan. We have to have faith on him."

The people in the table got caught with the silence.

"Okay, up." Isshiki said as he stood up. "We still have classes. And those two are starting to make some dishes with the bubbles."

"I don't want to know who started it." Shun said as he walked to the kitchen where amazed shouts are heard.

The girls giggled before following the boys who are trying to stir the Gemini away from the sink.

Chapter Text

Chapter Twenty-Six

Isami blinked his eyes at the small brunet who is holding a cellophane of ingredients in front of him. Tsunayoshi Sawada smiled a little. Why is he here?

"You won’t mind if I use your kitchen for the week and help me make some dishes?" Tsuna asked.

Isami shook his head and opened the door wider to invite the other inside.

"Thank you." The brunet expressed as he went inside and removed his shoes at the foyer. "Do you like ravioli?"

"Yes." His immediate answer while placing an extra pair of slippers in front of their visitor.

The small teen nodded with a relieved smile. "Good then. We can make that for today's lunch. Did you eat yet?"

They stepped inside and went for the kitchen as he responded. "Not yet."

"Help me cook lunch then." Tsuna said as he placed the cellophane on the counter.

Isami was tasked to do the ravioli while Tsuna chopped the ingredients they needed for what the latter have in mind. He was asked a lot of things. They dived from topic to topic, mostly about Italy. Then before he realized it, they made a ravioli soup. Tsuna ushered him to lead the way to Takumi's room while carrying a tray containing a big bowl of soup, some spoons, a ladle and three small bowls. It was pretty dark inside when he opened it, since his brother didn't leave the room from yesterday. When they went in, Isami stayed by the door while the brunet made his way to the table in the center of the room, placed the tray there before going for the curtains and pulled one away from the window.

"Isami-"

"I'm gonna let you sulk all you want, but don't neglect your brother like this." Tsuna said as he gestured for Isami to come inside while sitting with his legs folded on the floor. "You're not the only one who's affected, Takumi."

"Tsuna-san-"

"Here." The brunet said as he put a bowl of soup in front of the younger Aldini. "Eat, drink up, be strong."

Isami looked torn between eating the soup or convincing Tsuna to go out with him to the living room. But with how relaxed the brunet while sitting there? He knew he couldn't do much.

It took minutes before Takumi went out of his bed. He was disheveled from head to toe. His eyes are puffy and red too. He stumbled on the table and took the handed bowl of ravioli soup. At first, his brother only stared at the soup. He even thought that Takumi will leave it on the table and go back to bed. But to his surprise, he didn't. Takumi took the provided spoon and spooned one of the raviolis. He ate it. Slowly, before he took another one. Then another. And another, before he took the bowl and slurped the soup. The blond was red eyed, like he's trying not to cry but Tsuna only took the bowl and put more soup in it. It didn't take long for Takumi to crack and cry in front of them.

"You lost. You'll get nightmares. You'll regret." A soft voice said that made Isami tear up too. "But it can't be helped. So cry, Takumi. No one will judge you if you do."

The rest of that afternoon was spent on crying and drinking the soup they made.

"Let's eat meatball sub soup." Tsuna said with a cheer when he opened the door.

Isami didn't ask. He just opened the door for the brunet who said his apologies for the intrusion. They went to the kitchen and pulled out the ingredients from the cellophane. When the task was divided, they started to cook.

Today, they didn't talk. However, he noticed the brunet humming a song under his breath while chopping the ingredients they need for the soup. He was also helped in making the balls, before he was asked to help in doing the soup after they baked the meatballs. After it was cooked, they put the soups in four ramekins (Tsuna asked him how many meatballs he wants, he said four same with his nii-san), topped with baguette then cheese before putting them in the oven. They did some clean up as the meatball sub soup cooked.

Isami didn't deny that it was mouthwatering when they pulled them out. Like yesterday, they invaded Takumi's room with the food they made and some juice. They shared some silence; commenting on the food between him and Tsuna. Takumi didn't say a thing while eating slowly, like he was tasting and enjoying the food. But when Tsuna went home with one ramekin in hand to give to Yukihira, his brother went out of his room—just by the door.

"He'll be back by tomorrow?" Takumi asked.

Isami shrugged. "I don't know."

(Tsuna did come back with a cellophane of ingredients.)

Isami smiled as Tsuna started to talk about something Yukihira did. He was so chatty and cheery that it brightens the mood of the apartment. Today, he was tasked to make the noodles and the marinara sauce for their lasagna of roasted vegetables and burrata cheese.

They were in the middle of it when Takumi's door opened a little and the blond peered from the shadows. Isami sweat dropped at how his brother looked. But Tsuna is probably a person who loves to invite others for a reason because he beckoned the blond to come nearer to taste if their sauce for the lasagna is okay.

It was hook, line and sinker.

Takumi fell for it and came to the kitchen to check on the sauce. Isami noticed how his brother looked healthier than yesterday. His eyes aren't red, well rested even. He's washed, in good clothes and his hair is brushed. He's slowly coming out of his shell. After cooking them and putting it in the oven, they roped Takumi on cleaning the kitchen and the apartment as they waited for their late lunch. The blond was the one who pulled the lasagna out of the oven too, and put it on the covered counter to cool before joining the cleaning again. Tsuna was pretty exhausted to the point that he cheered when Isami cut the lasagna.

Tsuna bid them goodbye at five pm, a plate of lasagna in hand with transparent cover.

"Why do you think he's here everyday for?" Takumi asked while they watch TV.

Isami hummed, million things in mind. But he only smiled instead of voicing what he thinks. "Don't know."

Tsuna was unusually sleepy and sluggish. He kept on yawning while humming slowly under his breath. Isami and Takumi glanced at each other several times before they decided to take the matters in their hands. They did all the things they needed to do while letting the brunet help a little. While Takumi was frying what they made, Isami pulled the other teen to the sofa, made him sit there and served him some juice. It didn't take long for Takumi to serve the cannoli they made. Tsuna was pretty alive by then and blinking his sleep away just to eat the sweets they made.

"Why are you so exhausted, Tsuna-san?" His brother asked.

It took seconds for the brunet to answer, staring at the cannoli in his hand. "I was thinking of something and it took me until morning."

"Oh."

"Well," Warm brown eyes looked at them with hope. "Who wants to eat apricot fool tomorrow with baked spaghetti and meatballs?"

(“Tsuna?” Soma asked after answering the incoming phone call from his best friend. “Where are you?”

“Can you… pick me up, Soma? I’m by the street in front of the Aldini’s apartment… I can’t move.”

He immediately stood up and took a jacket. “What happened?”

“I’m so sleepy…” The brunet whined.

Soma laughed as he went out of his room. Of course, Tsuna should be exhausted since he just started to do his dishes yesterday amidst his quest to cheer up Takumi and Isami. “I’ll be there in five minutes tops. Can you hold on?”

“Hn… Soma-chan…”)

(Soma found Tsuna leaning and sleeping on the railings of the building’s steps. The brunet presented him a plate of cannoli after being stirred to wakefulness. Soma gave the brunet a piggyback ride to the dorm, relishing a little the small ‘nom nom’ of the later.)

"Nii-chan." Isami called out to Takumi from the living room. "I think I know why Tsuna was always here for the week and why he's been lacking sleep lately."

"Why?" The blond asked while putting his arms on the counter.

"He wanted to cheer you up." He smiled. "Because you were down after your match. He also wanted you to cook again that's why he kept on inviting me to cook with him."

"E-Eh?"

He laughed. "Nii-chan. You're so clueless sometimes."

"I thought he was just visiting!" The blond exclaimed, blushing at Isami's comment.

"He was. To check up on you while thinking of the dish he'll make for the second round. He was mumbling about puree and Kale awhile ago. He's one of the six semi-finalists."

"Ha?! And he went here even though he has some things to do?!"

He shrugged. "Dunno."

"Don't give me that!"

Isami only laughed.

"You alright, Tsuna?"

He opened an eye to see Hayama looming over him. "A little. My head is spinning. Took me until morning to finalize my dish." Then he closed his eye again and fixed the wet towel over his warm forehead. "I even think that my head is overheating."

Silence came between them.

"You're more knowledgeable about cooking than you let on." He heard Hayama said.

"You noticed?"

"You made an aroma bomb in the preliminaries. An autumnal salad in the first match. What will be your dish today then?"

"Watch my match." Tsuna said as he heard the stadium erupt with cheers of Soma's name. "That's my cue."

"Your best friend is some kind of a hero." Hayama remarked as the brunet removed the wet towel and sat up.

"Didn't you know?" Sawada asked as he took his apron and knife case before standing up. "The 'h' in Yukihira means hero." Then he smiled a little. "I'm going, Hayama-san. See you later?"

"If you win."

Tsuna rolled his eyes as he walked away. "If I win, he says. Not like I won't see you if I lose."

"You're being sarcastic!" The dark teen called out.

"No I'm not!" He called out too before he entered the stage.

It was blinding like a week ago. The audience is ten times since they wanted to watch the semi-final and the Shokugeki between Mimasaka and Soma. He looked up when he heard the redhead calling his name. He raised a hand and waved, same with the redhead who grinned and lifted his index finger. Tsuna grinned, pointed a finger to his raised hand before he brought it down lower until his chest. He laughed when Soma made a disgruntled face in response.

A raised finger means I'm taking the top.

Bringing his hand down means I'm still ordinary.

Shaking his head, he put on his apron as Miyoko Houjou started to ready her knives. He looked up to the alumni who were looking down at them. He can see Mizuhara, Inui and Doujima. Two of them aren't familiar to him though.

"The second match is Miyoko Houjou versus Tsunayoshi Sawada." Doujima announced as Tsuna took out his knife and closed the case after. "Start cooking!"

Tsuna darted the knife on the chopping board and didn't waste any time. It will take two hours to cook the meal he wants to do. He can make it less with the help of his intuition but it will still take time. He was bustling around his kitchen, humming a tune he remembered hearing from Nana when he was still a kid. Something he remembered lulling him to sleep.

He has been constructing the song's structure since Wednesday when he suddenly remembered it while taste running his dish. Even when he visited the Aldini and joined Soma in his room to think what he can do to make his dish a little smoother, he was still humming it. But he can't help feeling there's something happening. Something he won't like and won't be able to avoid.

He sighed when he only needs a fourth of the work to do. He looked up to see Houjou starting to serve her dish. He didn't mind and kept on doing his job. He can hear the exclaims of the audience, but his intuition is really demanding, so he can't look up. And just when the judges finished commenting and Houjou went back to her station, Tsuna finished his dish.

He carried one plate each in both hands, and carried them to the waiting judges with a proud smile.

"Tsuna-kun made something fully Western Style." Erina muttered as she stared at the plate the brunet put in front of the five judges.

"What is it?" Yukihira asked, arms crossed and watching too.

The blondie kept her temper in check. It won't do if she shouts at him again. Tsuna is really nice to her and this shameless guy beside him is his best friend. "A Beef Wellington. An English pie made of fillet steak, coated with pâté and duxelles, which is then wrapped in parma ham and puff pastry, then baked. He even did some puree, Kale, and mini-fondants."

"That is fancy. Clearly Western-Style." The redhead nodded, amazed.

"He isn't even subtle. He purely made them with all the available ingredients he can get in the pantry while Houjou improvised with her Lyon-style chicken with vinegar sauce. Does he have any foreign lineage?"

"I don't really know, but he has an Italian tutor." Soma answered with a small smile. It mesmerized Erina a bit. "He usually cooks with the thought of me, his tutor and his family."

Erina snorted. "You're conceited."

"Wait till he calls out for me to eat my own portion." The redhead cheekily said.

"It's fine, Inui-sempai." They heard the brunet waved off after Tsumuzaki insulted him. "My tutor is more of Italian, Sicilian to be exact, that's why I go fancy. And he won't like it if I don't go all out. He always says I must fight with my dying will, and I take that to heart." Then he smirked, causing Yukihira to snicker. "So why don't you try combining everything in one bite, Tsumuzaki-sempai? If you have more to complain, I'll gladly say I lost this round to Houjou-san."

Inui laughed. "You're such a darling, Sawada. You're becoming like Yukihira."

"Hmm?" Tsuna hummed in question before smiling with a cheer. "Soma is my best friend and my brother. We are the Polar Star Gemini; we complement each other."

The Japanese cuisine alumnus giggled. "You're right. I can also see bits of you in him too."

"Not only that, their dishes are beautifully crafted." Mizuhara complimented.

Taki Tsumuzaki moaned after she ate a piece of everything in the plate.

"You truly knocked Taki-sempai off her seat. Thank you." Kikuchi giggled, that Tsuna only grinned at.

"My offer still stands, Sawada." Mizuhara said after finishing everything.

"The answer is still the same, Sempai." The brunet responded with modesty.

Doujima chuckled. "Shall we vote?"

Erina smiled when all judges wrote Tsuna's name. The brunet shared a handshake with Houjou before removing his apron, put his things away, and looked at their place. The brunet gestured something like getting the plate. She looked at Yukihira who signed something otherwise. Tsuna sighed, tucked his apron and case in one hand as he took the remaining plate of his creation with the other. The redhead helped the brunet get in the observation box by taking the knife case and the plate. Erina can't help ushering the brunet to one of the couches since he looked so exhausted and out of it.

"Excuse him, he has been working really hard this past week." Yukihira said as he faced the plate in his hands. "He kept on visiting the Aldinis and tried to cheer them up while thinking of this dish he made."

"And it worked." A weak voice answered.

"You say don't overwork myself, yet here you are." The redhead sighed, almost disappointed and exasperated. "Don't forget I had to fetch you from the apartment because you felt so lightheaded."

"I said I'm sorry. Why are you holding grudges?"

"Because this dish is so good." The redhead replied as he took a bite.

The brunet grumbled. "You could've said thank you instead."

"Do you need water, Tsuna-kun?" Erina asked, turning a little to see the brunet.

"Oh. No need. My head is just overheating, that's all. But thank you, Erina-chan. You should watch Hayama-san and Kurokiba-san's match. It will be pretty interesting."

"Who do you think will win, Tsuna? Hayama is the spice king while Kurokiba is a dark horse." Yukihira asked, curious.

A silence for a sec. "Both of them? So, we can have a four way battle instead, and I can just kick your asses."

"What the heck?!" The redhead shouted while Erina can't help her laughter. "Anyway, do you want a taste, Nakiri?" Yukihira offered.

Erina eyed the offered fork with a piece of everything struck on its tines. She took the fork and inspected the presentation. It was flawless. The mini piece of fondant looks shiny; even the Kale has this healthy appearance and smelled sweet with butter. She likes how rich the color of the puree. The Beef Willington in general is perfectly cooked; juicy with the bread looking crispy and well baked.

She opened her mouth and ate the food as she closed her eyes. She gave a full body shudder after the first bite. No wonder Tsumuzaki-sempai surrendered. The ingredients made incredible harmony as they fused together. Everything is well seasoned; not one is bland and she can see a clear image of what the dish wanted to convey. She felt and pictured herself in a nice place with beautiful holiday decorations, incredibly warmed and relaxed with pleasant feelings, and this overwhelming sense of happiness.

She opened her eyes and turned to Yukihira who was staring at her. The other smiled at her as if saying 'I said so', before using another fork to continue eating. She then glanced at Tsuna who moved, removing his arm from his eyes and blinked at them with weak gaze. She knows the brunet can take his dish to a higher level. She can compare his cooking to someone among them. But for a mere first year who didn’t learn cooking all his life to reach that kind of level, and probably exceed her...

"Did something happen?" Tsuna worriedly queried.

Erina smiled reassuringly. "Nothing, Tsuna-kun. Just thinking how well will you kick Yukihira-kun's butt in a four-way battle."

"Hey!" The redhead complained.

Tsuna and Erina laughed.

The match started after a minute. Soma went to theorize what the competitors were going to do. Tsuna chirps in every now and then, and kept on teasing him about defeating the three of them. Erina did try to guess what Hayama and Kurokiba were going to do while agreeing with Tsuna with laughter. Alice came by, sitting beside Soma who didn't mind her presence. She didn't forget to hug him even if he was completely exhausted.

The brunet only realized by then that he's one of the finalists. It's not that it was unexpected (which it is because he didn't know he'll come this far), but it feels nice to achieve something he did on his own. Like cooking the beef Wellington and its accompaniments alone. God. He remembers how nervous he was on the prelims, and here he is now.

Tsuna was having fun bantering with the three when he felt his phone vibrate continuously. A little confused and curious, he took it out to look who's the caller. It was Reborn. His head ran over reasons why the hitman called him, but there's only one reason he knew was right. Bad news. Trepidation attacked him as he clicked answer and pressed the phone to his left ear.

God. He just knew something is wrong if Reborn suddenly calls him.

"Hello, Reborn?" He greeted.

"Tsuna," A slight pause, causing his heart to beat faster. "Mama was taken to the hospital."

"Wa-Wa-" Panic rose in his gut as he sat up. He can feel worry and the urge to cry but then, he realized that panicking will get him nowhere. So, he took his deep breaths and relaxed. "What happened?"

"She suddenly collapsed. The kids were the ones who saw her fall. I'm already at the hospital with the others, and Shamal is looking after her now."

"What about the kids?" He asked as he went out of the couch and walked for his knife case, his apron already tucked between his other arm and body. "Don't tell me you left them?"

A scoff. "I'm not careless, Dame-Tsuna. Bianchi is there with the girls."

"Tsuna?" He looked back to Soma who called him out. Even the girls looked confused and worried. "What's happening?"

"Kaasan is in the hospital. She suddenly collapsed." Tsuna beckoned the other to come to him. "I need to go to them."

"You're going back?" The redhead asked as he walked nearer, forgetting the almost empty plate.

He nodded with hesitation. He doesn’t want to go, but this is Kaasan. He can’t lose Kaasan. "Yes."

"What about the competition?" 'What about me?'

"I have to forgo it then. Kaasan needs me." Tsuna answered as he put his arms around the redhead's shoulders and pulled him for a hug. Soma's forehead touched his collarbone. "But I'll be back to you. I'll call you everyday to check up on you. That's a promise."

"You never break promises." Yukihira mumbled on his shoulder.

"I don't." He whispered back. "And while you're at it, keep them at bay, yeah? I don't want to worry everyone." Then he pulled back, a hand on the redhead’s nape and they stared at each other. "Just those who ask."

"Okay. You be careful there." Soma bid. "I'll keep you updated with what's happening here."

"I'll make them ready the car, Tsuna-kun." Erina offered as she waved off one of the stationed men.

"I need to get to the dorm though. My overnight bag is there." He hummed as he thought of his belongings. He pulled away from Soma, but a hand stayed on the redhead’s shoulder for assurance.

"Your mittens and pills too." The redhead added on, which he nodded at. He had to leave them behind earlier. Maybe he should put a secret compartment on his knife case and stitch some secret pockets on his pants and shirts to keep them with him.

"I'll tell them to wait in the Polar Star dorm." Erina responded as she walked out with Alice.

Tsuna pressed the phone to his ears as he reached out to ruffle the red locks. "I'll call you once I get there. Take the top alright?"

Soma beamed with a cheer. "I will."

Both smiled at each other before Tsuna took his knife case from the floor and started to run. It was a good thing no one is paying them attention and the students are all in the seats. He has to apologize to Hayama later though. He wanted to gush on the dark teen's victory or something. He also wants to cheer on Kurokiba since he's equally amazing, although they're not that close.

"Reborn?" He called out on the phone as he exited the stadium and ran for the path that will take him to the dorm.

A small rustle. "Yes?"

"Can you hold the fort for me a little longer? I'm coming back." He said as he pushed his legs more.

"I can."

He sighed. "Thank you."

The call ended.

Chapter Text

Chapter Twenty-Seven

Brown eyes flattered open, a little addled from the sense of sleep still permeating on his senses. Tsuna closed his eyes again to orient himself when he felt a slight disturbance on the bed he’s lying. He thought back why does he smell a distant familiarity of car perfume, could feel two people at front, and feel the quiet hum of car engine. Right. He was at the semi-finals of the tournament and was resting on the lounge with Erina, Alice and Soma when Reborn called and told him that Nana collapsed and was brought to the hospital. He decided to come back from then, and was helped by Erina and Alice by calling a car ride for him that would be waiting at the Polar Star Dorm since he needed to get his overnight bag from there too.

Tsuna opened his eyes again and wiped a hand on his face before he pushed himself up to sit. He looked outside the car windows to see where they were. They seemed to be nearing Namimori already with how familiar the scenery is. The sun is about to set already too as the sky has donned colorful hues.

“We’ll be arriving in thirty minutes maximum, Sawada-san.” The driver announced to him.

He nodded.

“Have you had a good rest?” The one on the passenger’s asked and handed him a bottled water.

“How much time did we travel?” He asked instead as he gratefully took the water.

“Three hours at most.” The one on the passenger’s answered, just when Tsuna was drinking.

The brunet felt himself and nodded. “I rested well. Thank you.”

Both nodded.

They were nearing the entrance of the town when Tsuna noticed someone in the middle of the road. He asked the driver to stop as recognition downed on him. It was Tetsuya Kusakabe, leaning on his motorcycle. The second-handman of Hibari stood up when the car went to a full stop in front of him. Tsuna opened the door as well.

“Kusakabe-san.” He bowed his head a little. The other stared at him for a second.

“Reborn-san asked me to get you, Sawada-san.” Kusakabe relied.

“I see.” He nodded.

“Sawada-san?” The driver called.

He smiled. “It’s fine. I know him.” He went inside the car to get his bag and his knife case. He heaved a deep sigh as he straightened up before closing the door. He turned to the two again and bowed with sincerity in heart. “Thank you for giving me a ride. Please tell Erina-chan and Alice-chan that I arrived safely. I’ll message them as well.”

“Yes, Sir.” The driver responded.

Tsuna went to Kusakabe’s side then turned to watch the car back up to turn to the other side. He waved at them as they sped away. After that, he was helped by Kusakabe to sit on the bike. They went inside Namimori in a good speed. Tsuna roamed his eyes to see the familiar scenery. It’s like he has been away from the town when he was just away for months. Kusakabe went to a series of shortcut so they arrived quickly after ten minutes of ride. Tsuna will never deny it that his heart jumped when he saw the house from afar, and when he caught eye the familiar gate and nameplate. The bike came to a complete stop in front of his gate, and he got helped to get down again since he had a lot in hand.

"Thank you for the ride, Kusakabe-san." He expressed to the second-hand captain of the Disciplinary Committee with a small bow.

"It's alright, Sawada-san. It's for your mother and the kids. I'll even volunteer if I got the news first." Kusakabe replied before nodding to the house which porch is still unlit. "You should get inside. Those kids need you most."

"I will." He gave a tight smile before facing the gates and opening them.

"Ah. Sawada-san." He looked back from his shoulder to see his Namimori upperclassman giving him a small smile. "It's good you're back even for a short while."

Tsuna only nodded, unable to share half of the sentiments.

As the vehicle with its driver drove off, Tsuna closed the gate and went for the porch. He pressed the switch to turn on the lights before opening the door. He dropped his knife case on the floor before removing his duffel bag and placed it beside his case. He sat beside them and started to pull out his shoes while thinking what he needs to do.

One, check on the kids; Two, cook dinner; Three, make a bento for those people in the hospital; Four, take a shower; Five, go to the hospital; Six, call Soma; And seven, take a good night rest.

The ride from Tootsuki to Namimori took three hours, as what the man on the passenger’s said. He really did use that time to take a small nap so he could be calm and collected. Even the driver and his buddy advised him to take a rest since they knew how exhausted he was. He was very grateful of how smooth the driver in maneuvering the car for him. He wasn't disturbed an inch. That’s why he thanked the two with utmost sincerity before he watched them go. They must have been instructed by Erina and Alice. He wonders what must be happening in Tootsuki by now. The battle between Hayama and Kurokiba must have ended already.

He can't help patting his pocket where he put the token of Nakiri Family. Before they left the academy, Senzaemon intercepted them. The old man must've something in mind, like a hunch, so he gave the brunet an intricate symbol of their family, carved in a circle shaped thick wood and wished his mother well. Tsuna admittedly stared at the token before he pocketed it along with his mittens and pills.

Sighing, he stood up to take his slippers from the shoe cabinet and placed them on the floor before slipping in his feet on them. He took his things before saying the usual announcement, causing all of the people in the house to check who came. But instead of 'home', he used 'back'. Because Soma is his home now.

The door to the kitchen slid open and the kids with Bianchi piled out, staring at him with wide eyes. The brunet took in the red eyes, nose and cheeks of the kids to the worried crease on Bianchi's forehead. He gave a small smile to them. It didn't take long for the three to tear up again and run to him with cries of his name. He had to drop his things once more and console them. The one who crying the most was Fuuta who said he checked on Nana before calling Kusakabe on the phone so Hibari could help them. Lambo and Ipin stayed beside their Mama to keep her in place and try to wake her up. And Tsuna can't help feeling proud for the children. They held up so fine regardless of how traumatizing for them to witness such thing.

God. He was only gone for seven months, yet they felt so grown up.

"You three were so brave." Tsuna whispered as he hugged them tight. "And because of you, Kaasan will be okay."

"Really?" Ipin asked, face raised on him with a hopeful expression.

He nodded with a smile. "Yup. She'll be fine. But, you have to behave too, so she'll rest well in the hospital. We don't want to worry her, do we?"

The three shook their heads immediately.

"Good. And you know," Tsuna ruffled their hairs. "I'm proud that you held up. You're growing up nicely."

That statement caused the three of them to cheer.

Lambo laughed obnoxiously. "Baka-Tsuna is proud of me!"

"Lambo! Bad! Gege is proud for all of us!" Ipin chided.

"Now now. No fighting." Fuuta successfully mollified as the two parted.

"Okay." The brunet called out as he presented his bag. "Can I ask the three of you to put this in my room before washing up your faces and hands for dinner? You don't want to eat with tears in your cheeks, do you?"

"No!" A united answer.

"But Tsuna-nii, Reborn-san is using your room." Fuuta informed.

Brown eyes blinked at the news before moving his shoulders up and down. "I can use the futon in the room. Anyway, go on."

The three heaved ho his bag and started to chatter while they went for the stairs. Tsuna sighed before smiling at Bianchi who was staring at him. He can't blame the lady. He suddenly disappeared seven months ago without a single word of goodbye, then he showed up like nothing happened. Like he's welcome.

Fuck. He appeared like Iemitsu.

"Hi, Bianchi-san." He greeted with a small bow. "Thank you for taking care of the kids."

The lady blinked before smiling back. "No problem, Tsuna. It's what family does. It's good your back though."

Tsuna nodded. "Yeah. So dinner? Can you help me prepare the ingredients? I need an extra hand if we need to finish it."

"Sure."

When they moved to the kitchen, Tsuna instructed Bianchi of what she should do. The kids strayed by the threshold, fascinated of how he moved in the kitchen with the lady as a sou’s chef. Fifteen minutes before an hour, the dinner was done and served. He can see how happy the kids were; and Bianchi too for helping him in the kitchen. Even if the lady can't cook, she can still do some fine chopping; as long as she's not directly cooking everything. And so while he put the bentos together, he made them tell him what happened to Namimori while he was gone. He concluded that not much happened.

He excused himself to take a bath upstairs since they shouldered the clean-up. He didn't really argue for he has to deliver the bentos. Another reason why he couldn't soak himself in the bath. Donned in his usual attire, he took the wrapped bento, told the kids to sleep before ten and waved goodbye after assuring them that he'll come back.

On his way to the hospital, he checked his email. His eyes almost bulged out of their sockets when he saw a lot of messages. There are some from Hayama (saying he needs to go back to the academy after his business because they have a battle to do), Kurokiba (challenging him to a cook off), Ikumi, Ryouko, Yuki and Megumi (all asking how's the condition of his mother and if he's okay), Shun (it was a simple take care and come back soon), Marui (an update of what happened between Kurokiba and Hayama's match and what is the theme for the final), Alice (asking if he arrived safely), Isshiki (telling him to be careful on the way and come back soon), Isami (thanking him for everything he had done for him and his brother and a well wish for his mother's recovery) and Takumi (a simple thank you).

There are also messages from Aoki (the noiret rough looking guy) and Sato (the blond one) for a safe trip and to be back safely. It was touching since he's not that close to the two. They don't interact that often because he can't catch them in the dorm all the time. But the person he really wants to talk to didn't send a message. And he can't help smiling at that because he knew Soma is waiting for him to call. Navigating on his phone, he searched for the redhead's name and touched dial. He pressed the tech by his ear and waited for an answer while rounding a corner. It didn't really take long. Just four rings and he heard the other side.

"Oh damn-" And a crash, causing Tsuna to wince.

"Soma?" He called worriedly.

"Y-Yes!" A shout from a distance before a rustle was heard. "Tsuna!" Soma called out, voice nearer.

He chuckled softly. "Are you okay? I heard a crash."

"I'm okay. I just slipped since I just finished my bath."

"You ate already?" He asked as he entered the premises of the hospital.

"Nope. Not yet. - Soma-kun? Dinner is ready. - Eh? Tadokoro? I was going to make my dinner. - Isshiki-sempai insisted since Tsuna-kun is not here to make you eat. - Oh. Hear that, Tsuna?"

"Yup. Loud and clear." He responded as he went in the building.

"Is that Tsuna-kun?" Megumi's voice resounded from the other side. A rustle then a small click was heard. "Yup. He finally called." Soma answered.

The brunet huffed. "I promised, didn't I? Hi Megumi-chan."

"Hi Tsuna-kun! You arrived safe, I see." The lady said.

"Yup. I even got to rest a little. Did you, Soma?" He asked as he took the notepad from the side of the nurse station and wrote something there before giving it to the nurse who looked at it. "I'm gonna smack you if you didn't."

"I did. - He didn't." Megumi said otherwise when Soma answered positively. "Tadokoro! Don't say that! Tsuna will kill me! - Nope. He didn't, Tsuna-kun! - Oh. Is that Tsuna-kun?"

He took the post-it note with an answer on it, waved at the nurse before going for the elevator. "Hi Ryouko-chan, Yuki-chan."

"Tsuna-kun!" Yuki shouted from afar. "How's Mama, Tsuna-kun?" Ryouko asked. "Oh right. How's Mama, Tsuna?" Soma queried too.

"You just remembered, Soma-chan? You're getting bad." He teased as he waited to get to the fifth floor. "I'm about to check by the way, Ryouko-chan. Who cooked?"

"Isshiki-sempai. With clothes on this time." Yuki stage whispered, causing him to chuckle. "I know right!" The orange girl exclaimed. "Maybe he's taking consideration of Tsuna-kun's absence?" Megumi suggested.

"Oi. Don't use me as a reason now." He chided. He stepped out of the platform. "Tell him I said hi."

"Heard you already, Tsunayoshi-kun." Isshiki called out. "Dinner's ready, everyone!"

"Where's Fumio-san?" He queried as he navigated the floor to find the room. "She was by the stadium when I went back there to get my overnight."

"Probably investigating how you got in when every passage is locked." Shun's voice was heard from somewhere near.

"Ah. Tell her I know how to open my windows from the outside." Tsuna blinked when he saw number 'seventy-seven' on one of the rooms. He walked towards it. "It's good that my room is on the ground floor. I wouldn't get my overnight bag if it was on second or third."

"Or think that you have to have an overnight bag ready even." Soma snorted.

He knocked on the wood and opened the door. "Should I hang up now? You're going to eat."

"No." Most of them answered. "It's like you're still here with us even if you're not." Sato said. "True! It's like you're here even if you're not." Aoki seconded.

"I'm not even gone for a day." He pointed out. He put the bento down to the available chair before turning around a bit. "Maybe we'll go video chat tomorrow?"

"Preferable." Yuki chirped.

"Where's Marui-san? I haven't heard from him."

"Are you checking attendance now?" He heard the dorm mother joked.

He laughed. "I am."

"I'm here, Tsuna-kun." Marui reported.

"Alright. Thank you for the messages, everyone."

"No problem, Tsuna-kun!" They chorused.

"Okay, let's let Tsuna go." Isshiki said. "He's probably in the hospital by now and not saying anything so he couldn't trouble us."

He can't help blushing a little. "D-Don't say that, Isshiki-sempai."

"Sempai is right." Soma agreed. "Let's let Tsuna go. - You're just gonna hog him for all yourself. - I will not. - Really? - Anyway, Tsuna-kun." He heard Megumi said as the sound of teasing, banter and argument went a little distant. "Don't worry about us. Update us about Mama's condition, okay?"

"I will." He promised. "Take care of Soma for me."

"We will. Bye bye, Tsuna-kun. - Tadokoro! No!"

He snickered. "Bye bye, Megumi-chan."

He looked down to his phone. He stared at his home screen in which a picture of them with his Dad. He sighed before locking it. He went back to the group who's waiting for him. Ieyasu, Gokudera and Takeshi are there, staring at him with wide eyes. Nana is on the bed, sleeping soundly with an IV attached on her left wrist, and the person he's looking for is sitting beside her bed.

Reborn is still in his black suit and black fedora with Leon perched on the brim. The different things about his (certainly his) tutor were how he carries himself with oozing confidence, danger and arrogance, how much he grew to the point that the brunet thinks the hitman reached his shoulder by then (he's probably twelve or thirteen with his height), and how he openly made a smirk when Tsuna focused his attention to him. Nope. His intuition is telling him that his tutor is very relieved and happy that he came. As much as he didn't want to share half of the sentiments, he felt like he will now since Reborn is happy to see him back.

"Good evening, Reborn." He greeted before nodding to the others. "And to the three of you."

"T-Tsuna." Takeshi blurted, still surprised. "You're back."

"Yeah." He patted the bento beside him. "Take this. You're going to be on watch for tonight, right? So, you have to eat dinner since I know you haven't."

"How was the semi-final?" Reborn asked as he strode near to the bed.

"Finalist." He said with a grin as he sat on the cot. He didn't mind that Reborn knew what he's doing. He pulled the blanket higher until Nana's neck. "How is she?"

"She's fine. No any damages or illness, Shamal assured me that." Reborn responded with assurance.

"On gunpoint." Tsuna supplied with a nod and a grin on his lips.

"On gunpoint." His tutor repeated with a smirk.

He laughed. "Anyway, you go eat already. That's made with perfection, just the way you like it."

"You're going back to the house?" The hitman answered as he took one of the boxes. "You look exhausted, Dame-Tsuna. You didn't sleep at all last night?"

Tsuna nodded as he covered a yawn with his hand. "Nope. I had to finish my dish cause it will bother me. Well, this-" He pointed at his head. "-will bother me."

"Then wait for me to finish this. I'll go with you."

He quirked a brow. "Really now?"

His tutor huffed. "I can't let my student walk around Namimori alone when there are a lot of assassins and hitmen lurking to make a hit."

"What about Ieyasu?" He asked, nodding to his twin brother who was stuffing his mouth with the other two.

"He has his guardians. Not like Iemitsu didn't train Ieyasu how to defend himself and what a guardian's duty is." The hitman dismissed before putting food on his mouth.

The brunet darted his eyes to his brother who finished eating. "You called Iemitsu- Ah shit. I mean- Well, yeah. Did you tell him about Kaasan's condition?"

"I did." His brother answered in a small voice. "He said he wanted to come, but he has a lot of work to do in the CEDEF."

He looked at Reborn who handed him Leon. "Call Lal."

"Hi Leon." He greeted the chameleon. Leon answered back by sticking his tongue on the brunet's cheek before turning to a phone. He went for the phone icon and searched for Lal's name in the search bar. None appeared. "What's her name here?"

"Ah. CEDEF boss." The hitman responded, taking his warm espresso from the side table.

Tsuna didn't dare question why that name. The name appeared so he clicked it before putting the phone by his left ear. It took three rings for the other side to pick up. He heard Lal shout something in Italian he translated as 'Shut the fuck up, you stupid shit, and get to work'.

"What is it, Reborn?" Lal snapped.

Tsuna blinked before speaking. "Hello, Lal."

"Tsunayoshi?" A gasp.

"Yeah. It's me. Anyway, I'm just going to say that Kaasan collapsed this-"

"Afternoon." Gokudera supplied.

"-afternoon." He sent a thumbs up to the silveret before looking down to his feet. "I asked Ieyasu if he called Iemitsu- I mean- Yeah. Anyway, he said he has work there that's why he can't come. Is that true?"

"No."  A quick answer. "I don't recall ordering Oregano to give him any paperworks nor missions today or any for the following week... Fuck! That idiot!"

"I'll leave him to you then." He saw Reborn smirk at his peripheral while Ieyasu grimaced. Good. At least Ieyasu knows how terrifying Lal can be.

"Expect us by mid-morning. I'll haul that idiot to the plane." Lal seethed.

"Okay." Tsuna nodded. "So see ya?"

"Yeah. And Tsunayoshi," He perked up. "Stay put until I see you." Definitely a threat.

He nodded weakly. "Yes, Ma’am."

"She told you to never leave until she arrives." Reborn stated as he put the box at the side while the brunet ended the call.

He let Leon go back to his animal form and let the latter go to the brim of the fedora. But before he stood up, Tsuna patted the chameleon's head then went for the boxes to stock them together and wrapped them with the clothe. "Yup."

His tutor hummed. "The word will spread in the vines."

Tsuna winced. "Don't make my head ache yet. I haven't even had a good rest other than that quick three hours nap. And I'm not part of the vines."

The hitman shrugged as he stood up. Black eyes stared at the three guards for the night. "Keep an eye on Mama."

"We will."

Tsuna only nodded at them before he went out with Reborn. He stretched his arms, the wrapped bento still in his hand before looking back to his tutor who went past him.

"Come on, Dame-Tsuna. Let's go home." The hitman said.

Tsuna smiled and jogged a little. "Sure sure."

Reborn woke up when he felt a light grip on the back of his night shirt. Not groggy, but still wary, he looked back to see who it was. It's usually Lambo, who has nightmares pertaining to future Tsuna's death, asking if his nii-san is alive. Ipin sometimes wander around, asking when can she see Tsuna since Fon's presence in Namimori has become constant (causing the young Hibari to get irritated and excited at the same time). Then Fuuta, who's disoriented of how he wants to rank all the possible places where Tsuna can be, but he doesn't want to do it at the same time because he doesn't want his nii-san to be found by bad people (he speculated that it's Iemitsu, since the kid knew Ieyasu is bad news).

He didn't expect it to be Tsuna though. The brunet is facing the bed, an arm wrapped around his own stomach while the other hand is gripping the hitman's night shirt. Reborn can't help frowning at the sky flames in the room, curling and searching for something. He can feel how uneasy the flame is. Worried, unsettled and almost felt... Lonely.

The hitman experimented. He flared his flame. The moment he did, the sky flame latched on him. Reborn laid still as the flame inspected him with caution. It almost hurt since he's the tutor and his student should know his flame signature, but that's also expected since he hadn't healed Tsuna with his own flames nor showed it. In return, he also inspected the flame to see how will Tsuna react. Slowly, the sky hugged him, pulsing and humming with happiness, relief and not lonely anymore. More of... Contented.

Reborn laid on his back as Tsuna sighed, body relaxing. He can't help feeling the flames that are attached to the brunet's even though they're all dormant. There's a massive storm, probably Soma. There are growing two rains (Megumi, Hisako), three mists (Alice, Ryouko, Isshiki), two suns (Yuki, Marui), four clouds (Hayama, Shun, Kurokiba, Erina) and three lightnings (Isami, Takumi, Ikumi). There's also a small sun (Aoki) and a small rain (Sato). Seventeen in total. And to have four clouds attached to him, they're clearly smitten by Tsuna's friendliness.

Honestly, Tsuna seems same yet different. Same with how expressive he is, how he walks and how he talks. But different with how he carries himself with confidence and new found self-worth, how he looks at things, how he smiles and laugh, and how he takes things in a stride with calmness and intellect. Different from the nerve-wrecked, clumsy and skittish teen he met. The hitman won't deny it that what Skull said was true. Tsuna became graceful in handling things, even while he walks. It's like he was gliding in the streets as they walked home. It didn't even scratch how the brunet looks.

The gravity defying hair of the brunet got longer. The brown eyes, that flash orange twice that night, were narrower and more mature. The way he eyes people is penetrating as if he can see right through them. He got taller too, approximately four centimeters. Body build was lean with forming muscles like the brunet has this regimen that he follows every day. And while standing there, he let out this kind of 'power' that the hitman never saw on the kid before. Like he owns the world and he can even make others bow.

But Reborn didn't just focus on that. He also inspected how his student presented himself. Yes, he exudes charisma. Yes, he gives off this 'power' vibe. Yes, he looks dangerous in the expert eyes, with how laid back he is while looking alert at the same time. However, he also has this welcoming aura in him. Approachable, warm, accepting and understanding. Like the sky he is. Like the person Tsuna is as a whole before everything went down. It was almost similar to Primo, but with a touch of the brunet.

Damn. Forget about Ieyasu Sawada who they dubbed as the carbon copy of Vongola Primo. Tsunayoshi Sawada is the Neo Primo, not just by physical aspect, but also mental, emotional and fighting ability. He brings out what a true Vongola is. And to think that even 'the' Giotto de Vongola calls Tsuna his 'son'.

He feels disappointed though. To see his student grow without him watching makes him feel like a failure. He couldn't protect the kid from being hurt nor guide him of what to do. He wants to be there for Tsuna. He wants to see him make friends with new people with his own accord. But fuck... He couldn't do it because he-

Black eyes snapped down to see Tsuna frowning. The sky flame around his sun curled protectively on him like trying to assure the hitman that it's alright. That he's not what he thinks he was, and he can be better if he tries again. He smacked the sky flames with his sun, but it only crooned and curled more as Tsuna's frown ceased to a small smile. Reborn huffed before reaching out for the brunet's blanket and pulled it until the kid's neck. And before going back to sleep, he patted the mane to assure his student that he's just there.

(They didn't know that Reborn was holding Tsuna's hand, that was gripping his shirt, when he went back to sleep.)

(The two admitted that it was one of the best sleeps they ever had for the past seven months.)

Chapter Text

Chapter Twenty-Eight

Tsuna sighed as he stared at the ceiling from his perch.

"If you're that worried of meeting him, you can just bail out." Reborn chimed from his own spot.

Tsuna scoffed. "Yeah right. And he'll go all 'where's Tsuna? He ran away again? Find him! He won't be that far from here if he just got started!'."

The hitman chuckled. "Nice imitation."

"I even think he'll lock me up in here." He rolled his eyes. "Protection my ass."

"I think he really will." Someone else agreed.

Both looked at the bed where Nana was, who has her eyes open and fingers on her stomach drumming. Tsuna immediately sat upright and fuzzed around a little, asking her if she wants water or fruit. The lady only laughed and asked them to help her sit up. Although reluctant but still assured by Reborn, Tsuna and his tutor helped her up with the bed reclined and a soft pillow on her back so she won't strain.

The brunet can't help staring at his mother in amusement. Really, it's not only him who has changed. Nana's hair was longer, almost reaching her shoulders, but her eyes are still warm with an edge of knowledge with them. She looks healthier too. Heck, if she didn't collapse in front of the kids and Reborn wasn't the one who broke the news to him, he won't believe anything with how healthy she looks. Even her smile is still pretty and warm.

Very different from the woman he grew up to from childhood to middle school.

"Kaasan." He called out as he hugged her. He sagged when his mother hugged him back. "I'm back."

He felt soft pats on his shoulder and mid back. "I'm sorry I made you worry, Tsu-kun. I really didn't push myself. I just heard something that made my blood boil so I got worried so much."

"What is it that you heard, Mama?" Reborn asked as the two parted.

"Oh, just my darling doing something to my Tsu-kun again." Nana answered as she ran her hand to his hair. "It angers me how he can just toss around my son just because Ie-kun is there."

Flashing orange ones and black eyes looked at each other before staring at Nana who was smiling while playing Tsuna's hair.

"Kaasan, don't worry about me. I can handle myself. You need to keep yourself okay so I can come back with you fine." Tsuna admonished lightly.

"I will. I will." Nana smiled before gushing. "Your hair is so soft, Tsu-kun."

"Soma gave me a shampoo, I've been using the brand ever since." He answered, bashful.

"How is he? Haven't heard much from both of you."

"He's stressing out for the new dish he needs to make for a competition, Mama." Reborn answered for him. "I heard he and Tsuna talking on the phone awhile ago."

"You can talk to him tomorrow." He offered. "I'm just leaving him for the day because he's all out thinking about what dish to make. I don't want to disturb him until he calls himself. Speaking of food," He jabbed a thumb to the wrapped bowls by the side table. "do you want to eat, Kaasan? I made you a porridge."

"You did? Let's." The lady eagerly answered.

Tsuna stood up from the bed and took the bowl with a spoon in it. He placed it on the table Reborn set upped before taking the other one and handed it to his tutor, who raised a brow at him. "Your portion."

"This is beautiful, Tsu-kun." Nana praised when she opened the cover. "I can smell miso."

"It'a just a simple porridge with rice instead of oatmeal, Kaasan. It's like a meal in one single bowl with pouched egg as a side dish. Hope you like it."

The lady giggled. "This will be my first time eating something Tsu-kun made, so I have to taste it carefully."

Tsuna waited for the two to eat. He watched their reactions. When Nana sighed and started to eat more, he grinned. The porridge was one of the things he made in the Yukihira diner. It was to make Soma eat a little for lunch after a busy cooking in the kitchen since morning. It was simple to make, quick enough to eat, and easy to digest while giving him energy.

"So darling is coming back?" Nana hummed after swallowing. "He has to stay in a hotel since I'm not home yet."

Reborn and Tsuna looked at each other before the former spoke. "Tsuna and Bianchi can take care of him, Mama."

"But he'll make Tsu-kun stay and never leave the town again. I don't want him to make my son sad again." The matriarch frowned. "He'll have to go through me before he can make my Tsuna sad again."

"K-Kaasan."

She smiled. "It's okay, Tsu-kun. It's about time I tell him what's wrong in our family. If he can't take it, he can go back to Italy and marry his work."

"Don't you think that's a bad idea, Mama? He'll probably think that you got influenced by Tsuna's rebellious state that's why you're going against him." Reborn stated.

The brunette hummed in thoughts. "So what should I do? I don't want him to take Tsu-kun from his happiness."

"Kaasan." Tsuna sighed with a grateful smile. "I know we both have a guess of how he will react but I can take care of myself. I can slip away from him whenever I want. Remember, his words don't affect me as much as yours and Reborn's do."

"Well, if you need help, tell me okay?" Nana said as she took her son's hand. "I will do whatever I can to bring you back to Soma-kun. He can make you better when we can't here."

"Oh. So it was Soma you were talking about?" Tsuna boggled.

"Who else? You're not seeing it but I know you feel it, Tsu-kun." The brunette reached out and tapped his cheek. "Your smile is wider, happier and brilliant. Unlike when Ie-kun got here. Unlike when Iemitsu got here. I don't want your happiness to be removed from you or remove you from him."

Tsuna cupped the hand and leaned on it. "Thank you."

The three fell into a small chatter of what happened after Nana collapsed. Hibari was the first one to get in the house, followed by Mukuro. Tsuna almost cringed and imagined the two glaring at each other. But Reborn shot that down and told him that Hibari prioritized Nana's health while Mukuro cleared up the pathway. Chrome searched for the hitman, informing the girls in a way. When the girls rushed out of the school, they kinda informed Ieyasu and his guardians.

They just finished talking when they heard a knock and the door opened. Lal came in with a blond around Reborn's age. He dubbed the guy as Colonnello with the camouflage bandana as a telltale sign. The two took in the room, greeting Nana and Reborn before their eyes went for Tsuna who waved a hand.

"Hello." Tsuna greeted with a meek smile. "Good to see you, Lal. And you growing, Colonnello."

"Tsunayoshi, Kora!" Colonnello marched towards the brunet and bopped his head a little hard, making the latter wince in pain. "Don't go erasing your steps like that! You scared the hell out of us, Kora!"

"M-Maa... Running away won't have its meaning if you can still find me." The teen placated with that fact, which made the blond scrunch his face. "You look tall for a twelve- to thirteen-year-old teenager, Colonnello. What's your height?"

"I'm one-fifty-one." The COMSUBIN answered with pride. "I'm probably the tallest."

They heard Reborn smirk. "One-fifty-two. I'm the tallest among us."

"Kora! Don't go telling me that! Let's see! I'll be taller than you on the next growth!" The blond grinned.

"Ara. Tsu-kun is taller." Nana observed while staring at her son with contemplation and remembering the hug they shared awhile ago. "What's your height now, Tsu-kun? You look taller than I remember."

The brunet blinked. "One-sixty-one. I grew four centimeters since I went away. Soma was really insistent on milk." He whined in the end. "He makes me drink milk every morning because I'm too short for him. And up until now, I'm drinking one. He even threatened me that he'll make it twice a day if I forget it. No way."

The Sawada matriarch giggled. "Soma-kun is good for you, Tsu-kun."

"You won't want to know how naughty he is when he wants to, Kaasan. He gets into all this kind of trouble. I have to remove him out of it almost all the time." He grumbled.

"Hmm. He's pretty interesting." Reborn chimed.

"He wants to meet you of all people I told him." Tsuna put his head on his hands and groaned in despair. "I can already see my future full of headaches."

"So what school are you in today?" Lal asked, walking in. "You look healthier and leaner than the last time we saw you."

"Don't ask him that, Lal." They all looked by the door where Aria is, with Fon assisting her. "Give Tsunayoshi-kun his privacy. We all know he won't be staying here longer. He's just visiting as we all are."

Tsuna stood up, eyeing the ex-sky Arcobaleno's round stomach. "Here. Sit here, Aria-san."

"Oh. Thank you, Tsunayoshi-kun." The lady expressed with a grateful smile as they walked towards the seat. "Good morning, Nana-san. It's good you're awake now."

"It was just a loss of consciousness. And Tsu-kun made a healthy porridge that gave me energy. I can even go home now, but I know the doctors won't let me." Nana responded positively.

"That reminds me." Tsuna blinked and looked at Reborn who shrugged. He sighed and took the bowls. "Right. Reborn here is a doctor."

Aria and Nana giggled, Fon and Lal chuckled and Colonnello guffawed while Reborn smirked. "Good to know you remember that, Dame-Tsuna."

"What else will be the reason why you didn't call a doctor." The brunet grumbled.

"I'll call Shamal later." The hitman waved off. "He'll be delighted to see you again."

"Right." He muttered before bowing a little on Fon's way. "Good to see you, Fon. You're looking like Hibari each time I see you."

The Martial artist smiled amusingly. "Don't say that in front of Kyouya. He'll really bite you to death."

Tsuna shuddered. "Don't remind me that I have to meet him and Mukuro. I'm going to die with those two combined."

"Why? Out of practice? I can train you." Lal offered with sadistic aura flowing from her body.

"Now now, Lal." Reborn placated, still smirking. "That's my student. Find your own. And Dame-Tsuna is not out of practice. He met those families visiting him in an equal footing. He's also doing hundred fifty exercises with an hour to two runs."

"You could push him more." Lal complained, causing the brunet to squeak a little.

Reborn nodded. "I can. But it seems like that's his routine since then."

"It's already been five months since I started it." Tsuna elaborated, remembering how he struggled. "It's the only thing I can do now since I kinda... Stopped when... You know..."

Lal and Reborn went quiet while Colonnello and Fon looked at him with understanding. The two ladies, who were talking about children, didn't notice the silence around them.

"But don't worry about it." He smiled, dispelling the silence he created. "Even though I stopped my training that time before I ran away, I got a lot of fighting experience and enhanced my intuition further. It was nice, although troublesome since they were really set on of calling me the Decimo when I'm not."

"The Varia says otherwise." Mammon came floating in with Verde.

"Mammon, Verde." He nodded to the two before putting his attention to the ex-mist Arcobaleno. "As what I heard from Dino and Skull. You didn't map me out, right?"

"Dino has tried showering me with money, but I didn't comply. I respect privacy as I love money." Mammon answered. "Boss expects your presence tomorrow at the hotel. Not that you want them terrorizing the town, do you?"

Reborn looked at Tsuna before speaking. "Actually, we prefer they come, Viper."

"Why so?" Mammon queried.

"To get away from the moron." Verde answered for them as he pushed his glass further up. The brunet mused how Verde looked somewhat annoyed. "I'll never ride a jet with that sperm donor of yours, Tsunayoshi. I cannot even see a single ounce of his personality on you. Are you sure he's your father? With these looks of yours, you can pass on as Vongola Primo's son."

Tsuna laughed nervously. "I don't really know, Verde. Anyway, thank you for keeping my information secured to some unauthorized people. They could be used against me."

"No problem. I can upgrade your phone if you want. Irie and Spanner made a program just for you." The scientist offered.

He fingered the phone in his pocket. "I don't know. I need it for later since my friend will probably call or something."

"It won't take long. Nine to ten hours, give or take." Verde shrugged.

"Just give it to him, Tsunayoshi." Fon advised. "It will be good for you since you're still going to run."

The other Arcobaleno agreed. He looked at Reborn who nodded. So he took it out and surrendered the device. "Please be careful with it. I-It's the first thing Soma picked out with me when we met."

Verde stared at the android phone before nodding. "You have my word." Then he strode out of the room, causing Tsuna to get confused since the ex-lightning Arcobaleno didn't ask his mother's condition.

"He and Mammon only went here to see you, Kora." Colonnello stated. "We all are."

He pursed his lips again before nodding. "Thank you."

"Nana! Where is my Nana?!"

When Iemitsu came barreling in, Tsuna visibly tensed but his intuition hummed, telling him that he's not in danger. Yet. His brows furrowed, but got soothed when Reborn stood beside him so Iemitsu can't hit him. (Or Reborn won't hit Iemitsu.) He breathed in when he felt his body relax. It was... Unusual.

With all honesty, he doesn't feel betrayed anymore. No prick in the heart. No stabbing pains. No bitterness. Just... None. It's like he doesn't care and he sees Iemitsu as a mere person who's just there. Huh. He thought he'll still be bitter and want justice, but maybe having Soma and his new Dad is a blessing.

(Dude. How can't they? When they want to, they can just take everything into a stride. Be weird and cool as fuck when they want to.)

He watched as Iemitsu tried to hug Nana, but the latter always reminds him that she just woke up. He and Reborn looked at each other before shrugging. Maa. Nana is growing like how Tsuna grows.

"You feel different, Tsunayoshi." Fon hummed as he comes closer while Lal went for Aria's side to keep Iemitsu from bumping into the pregnant woman. "You have a storm flame in you."

Tsuna patted his chest with a small grin. Storm, huh?. "I have? That's great. It means we're really brothers."

"You have a new storm?" Fon asked.

"Yes, he does." Reborn responded, impressed. "Dormant, though. What do you think, Fon?"

"He has a good grip on Tsunayoshi." The comment made the brunet flushed red. The Martial artist chuckled as he hid his hands in his arm sleeves. "I rather like to meet him. For someone who can harmonized with you this tight, he must be someone special."

"You just earn a literal brownie points from him." Tsuna laughed.

"Tsunayoshi Sawada!" They all looked at the door where Skull is standing, hands on his hips with a scowl on his face. "How could you! I was your biggest fan!" The cloud shouted as he comes in.

"Skull-"

"You were so close! Then they suddenly announced that you had to leave because of an emergency?! Dude! Do you know how many people went down?! Even Kurokiba and Hayama expressed how disappointed they were when they realized that they can't face you in the final!" Skull ranted off rapidly. "If Yukihira didn't explain to the reporters what was wrong and why you have to leave, they won't understand. But still! You have to go back-"

"Skull."

He called out in a tone that will make Soma stop whining and grumbling and rambling in a small can't understand voice. It worked. Even the chatting people on the other side of the room went quiet.

He didn't know that his eyes bleed orange as he smiled understandingly of Skull's rant. He too wants to fight toe to toe against Kurokiba and Hayama. Heck. He wants to fill in his place as a finalist because he earned that spot with his own effort. Also, he doesn't want to leave Soma. He's home. And no one wants to be away from his home in a long time.

"I understand you, Skull. Believe me, I do. But I have to be here. Kaasan is my family, and I can't leave her behind. I'll do the same with you if Reborn calls that you're hurt. I'll do the same to anyone I deem my family. That's a rule he-" He nodded to his tutor's way. "-drilled into my head. Family over famiglia. Family over everything. I take that to heart, and forever to my grave."

Silence.

"Damn." Colonnello whistled as Skull teared up while Fon nodded. "It must be the teenage hormones. I feel like crying."

"You're a married man, just hold it in." Skull snapped as he tried to wipe away his tears. "Fuck. Do you know how painful yet heartwarming that was?"

"I don't know." He grinned with a shrug. "Do you, Reborn?"

"You're my student, so how do I know?" The hitman jabbed.

"What's our status' connection to what Skull said?" He jabbed back.

Black and orange-turned-to-brown looked at each other before they both snickered, causing some of the people in the room jaws dropped.

"Anyway, I'll make it up to you, Skull. What would you like to eat?" He asked. "Not the beef Wellington. Please. I've been doing that for almost a week."

"Maybe you can make that beef Wellington when the Varia visits. Xanxus loves meat." Reborn suggested.

Tsuna hummed as he took it by consideration. "We can do that."

"Maybe the day after tomorrow?" Skull asked. "I want that curry. It looks delicious!"

"Can I have some too, Tsu-kun?" Nana asked with a hopeful smile. "You did say you want me to try it when you get back."

Tsuna flushed. "I-It's not that great, Kaasan. Your curry is much tastier than mine."

"But it earned ninety-three out of hundred!" Skull interjected, causing the Arcobaleno to look at Tsuna with a new light. "And, we're the one to say if it doesn't taste that good, right Mama?"

"Yes, Skull-kun." Nana agreed with a nod.

"I'll make Dino buy the ingredients." Skull said as he took his phone out and started to tap on it. "List them out, I'll type them."

The brunet nodded as he mentally reviewed his recipe. "You need to ask him permission first."

"He already knows you're here." The stuntman disclosed. "Even the Simon will know. I think they'll come in the house once the news reaches them. Enma wants to see you after you know."

Tsuna blinked his eyes before he unconsciously hit his palm with the side of his fist. The message! " Oh. Got it. I hope I see them soon"

"Yes yes." Skull nodded.

Tsuna looked at Aria then to Reborn. "Is curry safe for pregnant women?"

"Some say yes, some say no. Spiciness can cause heartburn and indigestion to them." His tutor said before pinching his side, causing him to grimace. "You should know about that."

"I didn't! Not that I know what Kaasan eats when I was young!" He defended as he moved away from Reborn and hid behind Fon who was chuckling. "Maybe I can cut down the spices. I put turmeric, cumin, black pepper, salt, paprika and cayenne pepper on my curry. According to what I've read, turmeric is good for pregnant women. Paprika and cayenne too. Black pepper?"

"Cut down." Reborn nodded.

"Cumin then?" He asked as he moved a little to the side.

"They said some cultures use it for miscarriage." Fon chirped in.

"I have cardamom, Tsu-kun. You can use that." Nana provided. "Oh. This is exciting. I can talk to you about cooking!"

Tsuna laughed at his mother's excitement.

"You don't have to do it, Tsunayoshi-kun. I can just eat anything other than curry if it's risky." Aria said with a grateful smile.

"We can't do that." He rejected the idea. "If the ex-Arcobaleno want curry, I'll give it. You're family. And I want Yuni to be safe. This is a good thing too. I should take consider of what we eat so I don't serve something bad."

"He's right, Aria." Lal seconded while patting the ex-sky Arcobaleno's shoulder. "We don't want to leave you out."

"Except for Reborn." Colonnello chirped.

"Do you want me to put rubber in your head, Colonnello?" Reborn threatened.

"Now now." Fon interjected while Mammon took out a video camera. "Don't egg them, Viper."

"It's a live show. I have to tape it to get money, Fon." The esper reasoned out.

Tsuna laughed and went nearer to Lal and Aria as Skull started to cheer on Reborn and Colonnello. Nana went with the fun, saying how everyone is getting along well. It was something he usually see whenever everyone is present. And it feels good. He looked down to Aria when he felt a soft hand take his. The woman smiled.

"Your future is looking bright, Tsunayoshi-kun. Thank you for giving me this opportunity." Aria said, almost teary.

"I just don't want to lose Yuni again, Aria-san. Even if that future won't happen, I can't risk it. And besides," He looked at Reborn's way. The hitman paused from trying to kick Skull and Colonnello, looked at him and tipped his hat before going at it again. "I don't want my wingless guardian angel to leave me too early."

Lal cackled. "That's something new."

Tsuna winked. "Don't tell him that."

"So Tsu-kun," Nana wiggled her brows. "What recipes did you make along the way?"

The day went on without them paying attention on Iemitsu who was sulking at the side for being ignored.

Chapter Text

Chapter Twenty-Nine

"Long time no see, Tsunayoshi." Kawahira greeted with a harmless smile.

Tsuna gave a small one while Reborn shifted in discomfort beside him. "Likewise, Kawahira-san."

"It seems you want to have a contact with Bermuda?" The Tri-ni-sette administrator queried as he opened the door of his shop wider before going in. "Is it for your friend?"

"Yes." He answered immediately as they followed the man. He won't question how Kawahira knew. It must be an administrator thing. "Do you approve, Kawahira-san?"

"Why won't I be?" Kawahira parried back as he offered them a seat by the low table of his foyer. "Even Byakuran is baffled with the turn of events. What you decide is okay with us, Tsunayoshi. Not anyone is brave enough to do what you did, nor compassionate enough to give the likes of us another choice other than do what we were destined to do."

"Please. Don't give me all the credits." The brunet begged with a blush.

"No one came up with the solution other than you, child. Nor was willed enough to persuade us to go with it." Kawahira reasoned out as a black portal opened beside Reborn. "You, of all people, should know that."

Tsuna pursed his lips. "Let's talk again later, Kawahira-san."

"Yes."

Tsuna bowed before following Reborn to the portal. Jaeger greeted them with his usual trench coat and top hat. Tsuna flared his flames and slowly condensed it to keep himself warm from the cold bite of Alps. Reborn looks unaffected by it too. Of course, the hitman was the one who told him how to do it.

Tsuna gave a small bow before smiling a little to Jaeger. The last time he saw the Vindice officer was a year and a month ago. It can't be helped since they were keeping the jar safe and the mafia clean. Even for him, that will be a lot of work.

"I hope I'm not disturbing you, Jaeger-san." He voiced in concern.

"You do not, Sawada. Come; Master Bermuda awaits." The officer said before turning around to lead them away.

"Sorry about this, Reborn." He apologized to his tutor as they followed Jaeger. "You didn't have to come if you don't want to."

"I will not leave you alone if you're trying to say that." The hitman stated firmly. "Vindice will never be safe for anyone, even for you who found a way to remove the curse and presented Checkerface to them."

Tsuna pursed his lips before nodding.

That morning, after everyone shuffled out of the house, Tsuna voiced his plan of visiting Kawahira and the Vindice about his promise to Soma. Reborn considered shooting his idea down, but Tsuna reasoned out that Kawahira is the one who administers the Tri-ni-sette while the Vindice keeps the omerta intact. If he doesn't consult the two, he won't be able to fulfill his promise to Soma.

In the end, Reborn conceded but gave him an ultimatum. The hitman will go with him in tow. Tsuna tried to change his mind since his tutor does not want any connection from the two parties after all what happened. Especially Kawahira. But Reborn only told him to gear up and they'll leave the house in five.

Tsuna sighed mentally as they entered a room where the jar and Bermuda were. He bowed a little to the boss of Vindice who nodded back. He should probably finish this early as possible to keep Reborn relaxed.

"What can I help you with, Tsunayoshi?" Bermuda questioned. He almost sounded curious since no one wanted to contact them these days.

Tsuna can't help his smile at the straight forward inquiry. "Shouldn't we exchange pleasantries first, Bermuda-san? How have you been? You're not having trouble with the jar while keeping the mafia in silence?"

Reborn didn't say anything, but Tsuna's intuition hummed him how he made his tutor amused.

"No. Not at all. We can manage finely." The Vindice officer answered, going along with him.

He stood straighter, readying himself with the topic he wants to discuss. "Regarding your question, I would like to ask your permission about a certain subject." He got a nod to continue. "A civilian friend of mine has seen me use my flames twice, and I promised to tell him the truth about me after I asked your permission."

"A civilian must not know of desperation flames." Jaeger informed as if he's reading the rule from a book.

"Yes." Bermuda nodded to the info, but Tsuna kept his stand. "But, have Reborn told you that dying will flames can only be seen by those who can manifest it?"

Tsuna tried to remember the lesson regarding it.

"Dying will flames are life force, Dame-Tsuna." Reborn explained patiently. "Civilians can't see it since they haven't been in a situation where they were forced to use it. Only those who are like us can see it and use it."

"But Soma can." He remarked.

"It means your friend has probably experienced a life and death situation that caused him to use his flames as life source." Bermuda supplied.

Tsuna licked his lips in thought before an idea stuck him, causing him to cringe. "I can see why."

"In regards to this, I can see no reason to give permission. Rest assured, Tsunayoshi. Your friend is safe from the omerta." The Vindice boss carried on, as if dismissing the idea.

He can't help smiling before he turned serious again. "Last request, Bermuda."

Reborn peered at him as Bermuda asked. "What is it?"

"It pertains to Iemitsu Sawada." He started and carefully constructed his words. He can't make mistakes now, can he? "I know you've heard of who truly is the Vongola Decimo between me and my twin. In regards to the situation I've created these past months, Reborn and I speculated that if I ran away again, he'll do anything to pull me back to Namimori even if it means using the power of CEDEF and Vongola."

"You want us to stop him from doing malicious plans under the guise of civilian works." Bermuda continued, catching up with what he's pertaining. "You can be considered as a civilian as well if they cast you off as the brother of the Vongola Decimo."

"Yes." Tsuna nodded, expression turning grim. "And we all know how serious Vongola's bloody path is. Even if it will take years, they'll pursue something until they get it."

"Alright." Bermuda nodded. "You have our word. Call the Vindice name and we'll help you. I will assume you have your networks ready by then, and evidences."

Tsuna grinned at that. "As long as you do your end, we'll do ours."

"Good."

The brunet walked closer and laid his hand to the bandaged baby. "Deal?"

"Deal." Bermuda replied and accepted his hand to seal the promise.

When they got back to Kawahira's shop, the Tri-ni-sette administrator is slurping ramen while there are hot cups of tea on the other side. The bespectacled man smiled welcomingly.

"So what can I help you on Iemitsu's case?" Kawahira asked.

The tutor and student duo looked at each other before they mirrored a smirk.

Tsuna looked up to the time as he removed his apron. It was nearing lunch. He looked at his visitors who looked sated enough with the curry he made. Well, it's not everyday that you get heart fluttering praises from his own family. They have been asking for a lot of seconds, and it's a good thing he made a lot because he knew this will happen.

(Intuition, baby.)

"Naa Tsuna." Skull called out as he patted his full stomach. "Where did you get the soybean meat idea?"

"How did you know that?" He asked, spooked because it was Andou who asked him that in the prelims.

"I watched the prelims." Skull shrugged.

"But to think you can cook." Colonnello stated with a delighted grin. "Lal and I can just hire you as our chef!"

"That's my chef, moron." Reborn glared at the blond. "Go search for your own."

"Don't be stingy, Reborn." Colonnello admonished. "What do you say, Lal?"

"We can, if Reborn is willing to share." Lal replied with a smile. "This is good."

"I agree." Fon seconded while Verde nodded.

"You're going to make beef Wellington tomorrow, right?" Mammon verified as she wiped the corner of her lips. "I'll provide the ingredients."

"Sure sure." Tsuna waved off as he wraps up the bentos. "You okay, Aria-san?"

"Yes. Your curry is delicious, Tsunayoshi-kun. A worthy of its points." The Giglio Nero boss praised with a smile.

"He could easily get a hundred, but he didn't want to stand out." Reborn commented easily.

"You know you're the only one I want to impress, Reborn." He stated like it's a fact.

"I know." The hitman remarked. The others just stared at the two with no hidden amusement.

"Anyway," Skull said loudly over the noise. "what's your source? You were all cheeky and secretive."

Tsuna chuckled as he ran a hand through his hair. "The anime called Cooking Master Boy. It's a Chinese based anime about a twelve-year-old kid, who wanted to save his mother's restaurant, then become a cooking master after he passed a nationwide tournament. I kinda remembered the soybean meat when I was reading manga on my phone. I also tried remaking it when I was still here."

Silence.

"Dude, that's the reason why you were all secretive?" Skull gaped.

"I'm an anime enthusiast. Reborn can't remove that from me. And it saved me from a pinch. My curry won't be called vegetable curry if I didn't know that knowledge. I couldn't say it to the judges cause they'll think I'm crazy. Just imagine their faces, Skull."

Skull laughed immediately. "I know! I just imagined it."

"I feel honored." Fon snickered. "Who knew you used Chinese cuisine as reference for one of your creation."

"As long as I can use it to cook something, I'll use it." Tsuna patted the wrapped box beside the big one. "Can I trust you to give this to Kaasan and Dino? I have to take this big one to the kids. They wanted curry for lunch."

"I can give Dino his portion." Skull assured with a grin.

"You'll probably meet Kyouya on the way." Fon chirped.

"And Mukuro." Verde added on.

"They can just come here if they want some." He waved off as he took the big box with him. "Tell Kaasan to enjoy it."

"What about Iemitsu?" Lal asked.

"What about him?" Viper asked back causing Colonnello, Aria and Skull to laugh. "He can just cook for himself."

"Right." The CEDEF member agreed.

Tsuna laughed before he went out. The walk to Namimori elementary was not that long. It was nostalgic and almost blurry in his mind, but he can still remember. He passed by Nami-high and Nami-middle before he went inside Nami-elementary. The building is still the same although vague in his mind.

He was entering the building when the bell rang for lunch. He made his way to the stairs to get to the second floor where Fuuta's room should be in. They agreed to meet there. He was in room two-B when he saw his pseudo brother going out of his room. He was going to call Fuuta's name out when he saw a kid push the former. His brows furrowed. What’s happening?

"Watch it, Sawada!" The kid shouted in anger.

"I'm sorry." Fuuta apologized meekly.

"If you want to apologize, just give me your money." The kid taunted with a smirk.

"Why don't you give me your money instead?" Tsuna said as he made his way closer. He caused all kids to halt from moving. "You sure are brave to bully him."

"Who the heck are you?" The kid questioned with a scowl.

"Me? I'm Tsunayoshi Sawada, his brother." He put a hand on Fuuta's shoulder. "I think you should be the one who needs to apologize, kid." He let his sky flames go out, hot and dry as his aura flare dangerously. Cheating but necessary. It's what those parents did when they accuse him of doing something wrong to their children years ago. "A lot of us saw you push Fuuta. If you don't want me to tell this to your principal and demand her to call your parents, you need to apologize."

"Yeah!" Some children shouted.

"Apologize, Kenta! You're the one who pushed Sawada-san!" Another kid yelled.

"W-What?!" The kid stuttered as more kids voiced their opinions regarding the situation.

"I want a sincere apology. Don't you want that too, Fuuta?" Tsuna asked. His fellow brunet nodded hesitantly. "So? Apology or not? The principal's office is just nearby. I can always file a complaint for bullying. Who knew what will happen if Hibari-san gets a hold of this."

"Eh? Hibari-nii?" Fuuta questioned. Tsuna nodded, causing the children to pale. “Why Hibari-nii?”

“Just because.” He answered, earning curious twinkles in those eyes.

"I-I'm sorry." The kid apologizes sincerely and in fear. "D-Don't let Hibari-san know."

"As long as you stop, I will." Tsuna responded before smiling. "Bullying isn't good. It's not fun to hurt other people's feelings. What I just did to you is like bullying. Does it feel nice?"

The kid made a thinking face before shaking his head. "No."

"Then do you want me to continue it like you always do to Fuuta?" He asked again.

"No." The kid shook his head again.

"Then let's stop bullying, yeah?" He queried, earning a nod and a verbal 'yes'. "Good kid. Go, take your lunch."

The kids cheered in happiness before they continued their ways. He looked down to his fellow brunet and ruffled Fuuta's hair. The child hugged him by the waist. He whispered sweet assurance before urging the child to led them to Lambo and Ipin's room.

What they came upon is much worse.

Tsuna had to give Fuuta their lunch box before going in. He took Lambo's shoulder and the other kid's he was fighting and broke them off forcefully. Both kids were going to go at it again but he gave them scolding glares that makes Soma tears up in guilt. All kids in the room froze.

"Do I want to know what's happening here?" He asked in a leveled voice. "Lambo?"

"He bullied Ipin, saying she doesn't have ears!" Lambo shouted, panting soundly while glaring at the kid.

Tsuna looked at the kid. "Did you?"

"Isn't it true?!" The kid shouted back, causing some kids to agree. "She can't even speak Nihonggo properly!"

"If I tell you that you have a bad breath, will you be happy?" He asked.

It caused the kid to snap his mouth shut.

He looked at the girl who's wearing a red hairclip. "If I tell you that you don't look pretty in your hairclip, will you be happy?"

The girl touched her hairclip as she bit her lower lip.

He looked at the fat child that was behind the kid Lambo was fighting. "If I tell you you're so fat like a pig, will you be happy?"

The fat child blinked a bit before his eyes become teary.

"See? You don't look happy because it hurts. What will be Ipin's feelings if you tell her she's ugly, that she doesn't have ears, or she can't speak Nihonggo like you do? You're not even pretty or handsome yourselves since you're still growing. You don't write that well in Kanji like she does. She's a Chinese. She comes to school like all of you do to learn how to read, write and speak Nihonggo properly. If you think she can't say it properly, teach her. If you think she's ugly, do your best to make her pretty and make her feel pretty. She has ears if she can hear you say those."

The room was still silent. The kids were looking at the floor in shame.

"I'm not gonna coddle you for being wrong. You need to know your mistakes so you won't do it again. If you know you've done something bad, don't be afraid to own it and apologize sincerely." He let the two kids go and looked at Lambo. "Well?"

"I'm sorry for hitting you. But I'm not sorry for doing it first. I'm the only one who can call my sister that she's ugly because she's my sister. She knows I'm only joking." Lambo apologized.

"I'm sorry, Lambo." The kid said with sincerity before turning to where Ipin was, who's being consoled by Fuuta. "I'm sorry, Ipin."

The whole class turned to Ipin and bowed a little. "We're sorry, Ipin!"

Ipin sobbed and hugged Fuuta.

Tsuna sighed. "With that done, I hope you don't do this again."

"Yes, Onii-san!" They chorused.

He smiled. "Now, go and have your lunch."

Tsuna beckoned Lambo and the other two to follow him. They exited the building and went for the gardens. Tsuna took refuge to one of the trees there and sat on the grass. The three children did too. They shared a quiet moment.

He had suspicions since the day before. Since it was a routine for him and Soma to talk while one of them cooks, he made the kids tell them what they did in school. They became extremely tensed and started to evade the topic. But to think it was something worse.

"You know," He bit his lower lip before sighing. "When I was a kid, around your age, I was bullied for being Dame-Tsuna, and I don't have anyone to defend me like I did to you. Kaasan..." Tsuna sighed again as he looked down to his hands. "Kaasan also calls me Dame-Tsuna since I couldn't do anything right, so I couldn't run to her when kids around my age bullies me in the school and in the playground. But now, you have people you can run to." He looked at them. "You have Reborn, Hibari, Takeshi, Gokudera. Even the girls if Kaasan or Bianchi can't come. It's not the wisest decision since they'll call you cowards, but you can't take matters at hand. Do you understand, Lambo?"

The lightning nodded.

"When you're being bullied, tell it to an adult. If the teachers don't care, tell it to anyone. Preferable is Hibari."

"Why Hibari-nii, Tsuna-nii?" Fuuta asked, curious why Hibari is the choice often.

"Namimori is scared of Hibari. But he likes small kids. He'll take care of anything as long as you tell him your problems." He assured before taking the box and opening it. "Anyway, let's make you eat lunch."

"Curry?" Ipin queried, not crying anymore.

"Yup." He answered as he presented three lunch boxes to them. He took his handkerchief out and gave it to the girl. "Here; wipe your face, Ipin. Even if you're pretty when you cry, it's not nice to see a girl cry."

Ipin smiled. "Thank you, Tsuna-nii!"

He smiled as they started to eat. He made them talk about their classmates. Lambo was gloating how good one of their classmates in drawing. Ipin likes those dolls the girls carry around (but she still likes Fon doll most) while Fuuta talked about how good Kenta is in science. He felt relieved at how relax the three were, like those times in the dining table before they were sent to school because it's mandatory.

After eating lunch and sending them off from the threshold of the building, he started his walk home. But before he can even passby Nami-high, he was interrupted by a shout from the building.

"Boss!"

He looked up to see Chrome in one of the school windows. She was just standing there, staring at him with wide eyes. Tsuna can't help smiling when he remembered what the girl called him. It means Chrome is still his mist.

He didn't enter the premises of the school though. He waited for the prefect to show up. And he did. Hibari walked on the wall with his tonfas in hands. He bowed a little to greet the prefect.

"Small Animal."

"Hibari-san."

"Dokuro wants to see you. You can come in." Hibari permitted as he landed down and opened the gate a little. "Come."

He followed. "Do you think Mukuro will arrive?" He suddenly feels that cold sensation he usually feels whenever his other mist comes. "Never mind. He's here."

"Kufufufu. You are really here, Tsunayoshi." Mukuro greeted as he appeared beside the brunet, walking in equal steps.

"Have you had lunch, Mukuro? I have curry in the house. Big enough for a lot of people." He stated as they entered the building.

"Hmm. If my Nagi says yes, I will consider coming." The heterochromatic eyes gazed at him. "You feel different and familiar at the same time."

"I got taller." He boasted causing the two to snicker. "What?! That's an achievement!"

"You're still short, Tsunayoshi." Hibari jabbed like an arrow to Tsuna's heart.

"It's not my fault that I'm short!" He defended in indignation as they climb the stairs. "Not like I can reach your heights even if I drink gallons of milk every day."

"Who knows." Mukuro shrugged. "There's an harmonized storm flame in you."

Tsuna smiled. "He's Soma. A friend of mine."

"When you ran away?"

"When I ran away."

"There's a big sun though." Mukuro's flames poked the sun but Tsuna's sky took his mist and locked him in. The mist froze before 'kufufu'-ing. "Sneaky, Tsunayoshi."

"You started it. Don't go poking around my bonds." Tsuna cheekily chided.

"Birdie-chan. Tsunayoshi has four clouds." Mukuro sang.

"Tsunayoshi." Hibari glared at him as they stopped walking. "What is the meaning of this?"

"Dormant." He raised his hands, even if one is carrying a bento. "You're still the main cloud."

"I do not share."

Tsuna winced before giving a peace sign. "We're not harmonized?"

Tsuna sucked for air when three elements suddenly got harmonized with him at the same time. He had to grasp Mukuro's arm to keep him upright. He suddenly felt so lightheaded.

It wasn't like this when he and Soma harmonized. When they did, it was unconscious, to the point that Tsuna didn't recognize any signs. The only indication that they did was he woke up late the next morning and he felt very different around Soma. Closer and more at home. He even got one of the redhead's quirks.

"T-That was uncalled for." He rasped as he tried to stand upright. "You even pulled Chrome in, Mukuro."

"Of course. I don't want some mist to take my place and possess your body." Mukuro grinnned as Hibari opened the door.

"If I sleep in tomorrow and miss my morning jog, I'm gonna throttle you." He threatened without heat.

"Oh. Feisty." Mukuro laughed.

Tsuna rolled his eyes before looking inside the room. He surveyed who are inside until he saw who he was looking for. "Chrome!"

"Boss!" The girl beamed as she gathered her bag and walked towards them.

"Tsuna-kun?"

Tsuna looked back to see Kyoko and Haru, staring at him. Even Ieyasu, Gokudera and Takeshi were looking at him. He gave small smile. "Hey, Kyoko-chan. Haru. Good to see you."

"You're back." Haru said, astonished at his appearance.

He nodded. "Yup. Anyway, need to go."

Hibari closed the door before leading them the way to the rooftop. Chrome was on a light skip as they exchanged pleasantries. When they got to the rooftop though, he let the lunch boxes fall as he evaded attacks from Mukuro and Hibari. He took so many steps back to give themselves distances. He cannot risk getting beaten up.

"I know I owe you an apology but I won't apologize for disappearing like that." He placated.

"You left us." Mukuro stated plainly, eyes boring on him with coldness.

"I did." He admitted with a nod as his eyes bleed orange. "But can you blame me for running away to save myself? To find myself again after being stripped off my title that I defended because it almost killed all of you? The family I built from scratch through all Reborn's crazy antics? The family I earned and bonded with through thick and thin? The family I tried to keep intact because I was a big weak dame who doesn't know much about things? The dame who was pulled into the mafia, but ended up being alone in it at the end?"

Silence.

"It was the only thing I could do. There was no one there to assure me that you're still my friends, my elements, my family. Do you know how painful it was to be asked that I should give you up? That you belong to Ieyasu in the very first place? How it ripped me to think that I threw my life for the sake of keeping you alive for him? That all we did in here and in the future were for him? Honestly, I thought it was only Kaasan and Reborn who were left for me here, if Dino and Skull didn't tell me that I still have four guardians on my side. And I don't know if I should cry or laugh because you were expected to go to him and not stay with me."

"Boss is my boss." Chrome said, one eye looking at him with appreciation and gratitude. "You were the one who believed that I wasn't Mukuro-sama in the ring battle. You tried to help me with my organs when I got transported in the future. You tried so hard to save me from Daemon Spade and you trusted me to become your mist guardian in the representative battle. You're the only one who always worries about me, other than Mukuro-sama. You're my home, boss. Not Ieyasu, not anyone other than Mukuro-sama. So I'm going to stay with you."

"I may have been chosen by Iemitsu as your mist guardian just to go get a full set for the ring battle, but that doesn't mean I have to be Ieyasu's. If I didn't prove my worth in the battle of Simon and the representative battle, he will never let me stay here and will sic me to the Vendicare. The only one who knows how horrifying that place is you, Tsunayoshi. And I will not let the only sky who can tolerate me let go. Not unless you let me possess your body, of course." Mukuro smirked cunningly.

"You're a small animal and a sky, Tsunayoshi." Hibari stated, grey eyes staring at the brunet. "As I said, it is the sky that allows the cloud to move freely. And I promised you I will bite the sky when the time comes. And during that time, you cannot have any other cloud aside from me."

Tsuna gasped a little to remove the lump on his throat. He laughed a little as he fell on his bums and tears started to stream down his cheeks.

"Do you know how much I yearn those words seven months ago?" He sobbed. He covered his face as he hiccupped. "Thank you."

"Boss."

"Such a crybaby, Tsunayoshi."

"Herbivore."

Chapter Text

Chapter Thirty

Tsuna just finished stocking up the plates when he heard the doorbell rang. He and Reborn, who was sitting by the dining area, looked at each other before the latter stood up and went for the door. He went for a dry cloth and wiped his hand dry, as he looked out from the kitchen of who was at the door. When Reborn came in with two full paperbags of ingredients in hands, and followed by Mammon who has the same amounts of bags, he knew it was Varia time.

Shrugging, he went for the dining table where they placed the bags. He inspected what's inside, sorted them out before standing with his arms crossed. He calculated everything and apparently,

"The amount of ingredients I told you to buy got doubled, Mammon. Being generous today?" He asked as he took those he needed first.

"No. Just thinking you might want to make those children eat something like this." The Varia mist answered as the brunet went for the kitchen.

Tsuna hummed as he preheated the oven. "I can make Kaasan eat some. Of course, your portion is already reserved, Reborn."

"Good." The hitman nodded with satisfaction.

"What time will the Varia get here?" He asked as he started to chop everything in a fast manner. "I hope not early. You know how Xanxus can be very impatient." He suddenly remembered when the wrath punched him before the Cervello could even say 'start' when it was their time to fight for the sky ring.

"Two hours or less." Mammon responded as she floated inside the kitchen. "Your knives are rather new?"

He glanced back a little to his open knife case. "Bought them almost a month ago. Soma helped me pick them up. I'm not that good with picking knives." He answered as he placed the condiments he chopped on a plate and sorted.

"You can ask Bel and Squalo how to sharpen knives. They know how since they use them all the time." Tsuna laughed at what Mammon said. "Verde wants to ask how's the new system."

He perked up and smiled widely. "It's awesome. No glitches too. Please tell him and his group that I said thank you."

"Sure. I'll leave you then. I'll wait for them to wake up."

"I'll be half way through by the time you arrive." He nodded just as the Varia mist became hazy. "Thanks Mammon-san."

Reborn watched as his student hustle in the kitchen, humming a song under his breath. It's already five days, yet the brunet hasn’t asked anything nor introduced him to Soma even though they always call each other every night. It's not he's getting impatient to know who the redhead is. He just wants to talk to Tsuna.

Yes, they talk. Sometimes joke around even. Actually, the brunet is the only one who has the guts to joke around with him, laugh and jab him with nasty ones. The change on him was tremendous. The talk with Checkerface and Vindice was interesting too. It's a bad joke, but from the greetings until to the farewells were peaceful. If he didn't see how serious the brunet was about Iemitsu and Vongola, he would've thought that everything was a dream. He didn't even have to say anything. Tsuna did everything. But that's not enough. It's lacking for the hitman's likings. He lacked information. He knew what his school is, what they do there, and who he's associated with. However, he doesn't know his student's experience. If it was any fun, or enlightening or something. So lacking.

Anyway...

"Tsuna." He called.

"Hmm?"

"Why do you call Iemitsu by his name?" He asked.

Tsuna paused a little before continuing. "I don't really know. It probably stuck ever since? And when I tried to call him father, dad or papa, I taste sandpaper in my mouth. Metaphorically. It's a good thing I haven't slipped in front of him. And besides," Brown eyes looked back to him. "I have a dad who travels the world while cooking for different people with different ethnicities, nationalities, and personalities."

"Yukihira, right? I saw the director write your name with Yukihira." He nodded. There's no use denying that he streams the tournament after Skull spilled everything yesterday.

"Tsunayoshi Yukihira." The brunet voiced before chuckling. "Dad said it has a good ring on it. He even congratulated me for passing."

Reborn watched the child stop moving his hands and stared at them. It was one of those times he sees Tsuna looking contented, appreciative, and grateful.

"You and him were the same, you know. Your words were light but they have these heavy meanings. Just a simple good job, and I feel like I could die in happiness. I never felt that before." Then Tsuna continued what he was doing. "It makes me want to work harder, just so I could get another praise or just a simple smile. I mean I never received something like that before you came in my life, Reborn. The last time Iemitsu praised me, I feel cheated because he's pushing me to do something I don't want to do.

"Running away from Namimori made my mind clearer. My body breathed lighter. And before I knew it, I was rationalizing things. From the first time you came until he suddenly left Ieyasu here to befriend the others. It got me thinking. Like, what if, ever since you said I'm the Vongola Decimo, he sees Ieyasu in me every single time he visits? Or what if in the future, it was the same? Ieyasu was the mafia boss and to keep him safe, they always presented me as the one who does the work so he can always be saved. What if my death there was just a cover too? And they didn't say anything because my future me did all the planning with Irie and Hibari, that's why everything was like a surprise. I mean, I said the same thing to Mukuro, Chrome and Hibari yesterday." A pause. "I've been throwing away my life to save the people I wanted to protect, but only to find out that those I wanted to keep safe were not mine in the first place. Like all I've been doing were meaningless? That I could've thrown my life away from the moment it started to never feel so cheated like I did seven months ago."

Reborn never felt so horrible as he heard those thoughts coming out of the brunet's mouth. He can almost see his student thinking of killing himself instead of running away.

"Then think about it, I thought he was really proud of me when we resolved the issue between Vongola and Simon, and when we defeated the Vindice and broke the curse. But what if he was seeing Ieyasu in me and thinks that Ieyasu did all of those. Like he was praising Ieyasu? I know I sound like I'm playing victim, but isn't that what a scapegoat is? Do things for the sake of the original and get the latter praised by getting all the achievement of the copy?"

"Not wrong." Reborn mumbled.

"So when Dad praised me, I feel like I've done something amazing. Then I remembered you praising me too, when I do something awesome and not out of my dame side. It was heavy that it flutters my heart. It was warm that I could just cry. Even Kaasan's words of praises were heavy, when I told her I was part of the Election. Remember when you thanked me too? It was nice. It's like I have two father figures who thinks I'm awesome as I am and believes that I can do so much more if I try harder. So thank you, Reborn."

If Reborn felt horrible awhile ago, he just wants to ignore the fluttering warmth in his heart after Tsuna said that. Him as a father figure... "Huh."

"Soma was pretty ecstatic when he discovered that Dad took me in. He said we can be twin brothers even if I already have one." Twinkling brown eyes glanced back to him. "When you meet Soma, tell me who's Castor and Pollux between the two of us? A lot of people have been asking me who is who and I honestly don't know."

"Those father and son must be really interesting." He hummed.

"Yeah. I'll let you meet Soma one of these days. Probably on Friday? Just in time for the kids to meet him too. He's good with children. Maybe because he's a kid too sometimes." The brunet chuckled before swirling around to see him. "Hey, Reborn."

"What?"

"You're good with laws, right?"

"I am. I memorized them to know how to break them properly. Why?" He queried.

A serious expression with an innocent tilt of head. "Is it legal to disown a parent?"

"Pft." Reborn didn't cover it up. The question was so hilarious that he burst into laughter. It was no brainer who he's going to disown. "You're disowning Iemitsu?!"

"Yeah. I mean, parents can disown their children, right? And he wasn't even there for all my life, so can I?"

Reborn laughed harder, clutching his stomach in pain.

"Hey! I'm asking here!"

"Wait till Lal hears this!" He gasped between laughter. God, he hadn't laugh this hard since he can remember.

Tsuna shrugged and went back his work while listening to Reborn laugh. He was serious about it, but if it can make his tutor laugh, he doesn't mind. Hey. It's not everyday that you see Reborn laughing. It was rather enlightening.

Reborn didn't stop laughing for another minute. When he did, Tsuna graced him with his seven months adventure out of Namimori. How he was able to get a walk-in ticket for the examination even without any papers on him, how was his stay in the Yukihira diner. (He censored the ghost parts. Reborn will kill him.) His tutor chirps in every now and then, commenting on how stupid he was for doing something half stupid.

They were in the middle of discussion about donburi (courtesy of Soma and Ikumi's Shokugeki) when the doorbell rang. Tsuna blinked and looked at the time. It has been an hour and forty-five minutes since Mammon disappeared. The Kale is the only thing he needs to cook alongside with the Wellington, so he put the clean cloth he was holding on the counter, and went for the door while being followed by Reborn.

When he opened it, he was greeted with the Varia standing in the porch. He made eye contact with Xanxus, and he can't just help smiling.

"Yo." He greeted before moving away. "Let's get inside. It will be ready in minutes."

"Tsuna-chan! I heard you're cooking for us!" Lussuria cheered as he followed the brunet. "What are you making?"

"Beef Wellington with some accompaniments. Is it okay for you?" He asked as they entered the dining room to get to the kitchen.

"Oh goodie! I would like to eat that again!" Lussuria nodded.

"It should be delicious, peasant." Belphegor laughed, a step behind them.

Tsuna can feel himself sweat dropping. "I hope you'll like it, Belphegor-san."

"What's with the knives?" Little Fran, who was with them with his frog headwear, asked while counting the handles.

"Those are mine, Fran." He replied as he moved to the sink to wash his hands. "Be careful with them. You don't want to cut yourself."

"Pineapple fairy does that to me all the time, Lion-san." The boy remarked. "Even the Fake prince does. With knives though."

"L-Lion-san?" Tsuna repeated in surprise, pausing a little from ripping the Kale leaves apart. He resisted touching his hair to check if he does look like a lion. "A-Anyway, would you like some juice? We just stocked up orange juice."

"Do you have Bourbon?" Levi A Than asked from the dining room. "Master Xanxus wants alcohol."

"Nope. We don't stash alcohol in the house since we have children." Then he took a glass from the racks and pour a good amount of red wine in it. "But I have wine here. From the ingredients, of course." Then he put it on the counter.

Levi took it and served it to Xanxus who was by the dining table with Reborn and Squalo.

"Is there apple?" Fran asked.

Tsuna went back to his work while remembering if they have apple juice. "I think so? I bought grape for Lambo and apple for Fuuta."

"What about Ipin-chan?" Lussuria asked as the three of them checked the fridge. "Oh. They have chocolates."

"Have some. It's mine anyway." He permitted before putting all the leaves on the pot he prepared before the Varia arrived. "Ipin likes tea and grape juice. Juice, Mammon? Or do you want coffee? I have tea here, but you have to prepare them yourselves since my hands are full here."

"Anything will do." The Varia mist replied from her spot.

"Where's your tea? It's in the cupboard on my left, right? I helped Nana-chan prepare them when we went here." Lussuria said as he opened the cupboard before the brunet can say anything. "I'm right."

"Yup. You're right." Tsuna nodded as he put a pan on the other stove before eyeing Belphegor. "Can you pass me the butter, Belphegor-san?"

"This one?" The blond verified while pointing at the butter beside him. The brunet nodded. "Here, peasant. What are you making?"

"I'm sauteing Kale. It's a relative of cabbage, wanna watch how I do it?" He asked as he took the butter Belphegor handed to him.

"How do you do it?" Fran quizzed as he and Belphegor went to his both sides to watch him cook.

"You saw me tear the leaves and put it on the pot with water. The water has to have a pinch of salt so the leaves will have some taste. You put pan on the other stove, -" He tapped the handle of the pan to get his point across. "-and let it heat enough before you put there the butter." He put some butter on the pan.

"Oh. It melts." Fran commented as the butter slowly melted.

"Can you strain the leaves, Fran? You know how to do that?" He asked as he handed the strainer.

"Yup! It's like straining fish when you catch it in a net, right?" The kid asked as he took a ladle and took the leaves out of the pot to put them on the strainer that was by the sink.

"Yes. Belphegor-san, the salt and black pepper please." He told the blond who nodded and passed him the shakers just as the butter foams.

"Should I put it in?" Fran asked as he let the dry strainer beside the pan.

Tsuna nodded and watched the boy put the leaves on the pan. He took his wooden spoon and started to fold the leaves to the butter. "You mix the two so you can taste the butter in the Kale when you eat it. Put good amounts of salt and pepper to seasoned it to taste." Then he turned the fire off as the oven alarm went off. "There goes the beef."

"That's how you sauté Kale?" Belphegor questioned as he and Fran moved away when the brunet started to put more pans on the available stoves and let them heat up.

"Yup. You can sauté edible mushrooms, vegetables and meat too." He replied as he opened the oven with his mitten covered hands and took the baking tray from there and put it on the covered counter. He hurriedly turned all knobs of the stoves off.

"That looks delicious." Lussuria praised.

"It looks like bread." Fran pointed out.

"It has meat inside, froggy." Belphegor remarked while holding one of the knives from the case.

"Don't play with those, Belphegor-san." Tsuna said as he took plates from the racks and put the needed pans beside the hot pastry. "I just bought those."

"Yeah, Fake prince. Don't touch Lion-san's knives." Fran seconded.

"How can I help, Tsuna-chan?" Lussuria asked while standing beside him.

"You can cut the beef when it cools." He suggested as he started to plate.

"Hmp. I can give you shinier and sharper knives." Belphegor huffed while testing the sharpness of the butcher knife. "You can't work with this."

Tsuna glanced at the blond then to Mammon who was nursing a cup of tea that Lussuria served to her. "You can teach me how to sharpen it. Soma wanted to teach me but he was really busy so I always decline."

"The prince is honored to teach the chef." Belphegor laughed.

"Voi!" He looked up to Squalo who stood up from his seat by the table and stalked towards them. "You're asking the wrong person!"

"Why, Sharky? Are you saying I don't know how to sharpen my knives?" Belphegor challenged.

"Oh. A war between sea creatures and a fake royalty." Fran whispered to him.

Tsuna pursed his lips to stop himself from laughing before he shook his head. "So how do you do it?"

His question successfully diverted the attentions of the two steel users of Varia. The two started to teach him what to use to sharpen his knives, what he needs to do when they suddenly looked dull and many more. He let Lussuria cut the beef as he nodded and took note of everything they said. By the time they were finished, Levi and Fran already placed the plates by the table, and they were the last ones to settle down.

Tsuna was about to join them when he felt his phone vibrate. He excused himself and went for the kitchen to check who texted him. He immediately answered the call when he saw Soma's smiling picture.

"Hello, Soma." He greeted as he leaned on the counter.

"Yo! You sound exhausted. What happened?"

Tsuna shook his head. "Nothing. Just cooked for one of my family. Remember the group of scary people I told you about?"

"Ah. The scary guy called Xanxus and his group?"

"Yup. Anyway, why'd you call? Miss me already? You just called this early morning."

"Just remembered you when I stared at the fish I'm curing." Then a snicker.

Tsuna narrowed his eyes. "Don't worry. I remembered you too, when I saw the red pepper."

"I was kidding." A pout.

"I wasn't."

Then they snickered.

"So how's Mama? Still not home?"

"Not yet." He sighed when he remembered how adamant Iemitsu to make Nana stay in the hospital until she's cleared. He was really stubborn that not even Lal can force him out of it. "I'm waiting for Reborn to kick Iemitsu out of his stupidity. I even think Kaasan is getting annoyed."

"You can just tell her to tell Iemitsu that she wants to go home."

"She doesn't want to talk to him. She's mad at him for doing... Things to me."

"I'll be mad too."

"Thanks."

"I miss you already. I don't have anyone to joke around." The other whined.

The brunet rolled his eyes with a fond smile. "You should be glad that I'm not there to snatch the top."

"Stop it, Mister Extra-ordinary."

Tsuna put the phone on the safe side and started to gather the things he used. "How's everyone?"

"Still the same. Nikumi-"

They talked for thirty minutes before he forced Soma to take a nap when he heard the redhead yawn. The redhead didn't sleep last night again when he got an idea about his own curing method. Tsuna didn't ask what is it because he knew the redhead will tell him once it becomes successful.

Soma persuaded him to not cut the line until he falls asleep. Since Tsuna is in the middle of cleaning, he resorted to humming. Before he knew it, Soma was snoring lightly after he finished wiping the counter. He chuckled, said a small 'sweet dreams' before cutting the line. When he went out of the kitchen, Varia and Reborn were done eating.

"Compliments to the chef." Xanxus remarked without his usual scowl. It made Tsuna smile.

"I rate it six and a half out of ten." Reborn smirked. "Good job, Dame-Tsuna."

Tsuna nodded, heartwarming with the praise. "Thank you." He watched as Xanxus stood up, followed by Varia. "You're going already?"

"Yup. We have to escort Fran back to Rokudou." Lussuria answered with a smile. "It was delicious, Tsuna-chan. Thank you for gracing us such wonderful dish."

"I cook for family." He simply said, causing some of the Varia to smile.

He followed them to the front door, saying 'thank you' to those who complimented his cooking. Even Levi said his compliments. He was being reminded by Squalo and Belphegor about his knives when they got outside, and he stayed by the threshold.

"Noted." He saluted, earning a huff and an 'ushishi'.

"Brat." He looked up to Xanxus who called out. Red eyes gave him a stare. Not pity or even sympathy. It was respect and pride. "You don't kill but you're quality. I could take you if you ask."

Tsuna peeked at his tutor who was leaning on the wall of the dining room. "No, thank you. I was trained to lead."

"I know." The wrath huffed. "The hitman already told me the possible dilemma. I will give my assistance if you get the ring I lost to you."

'I lost to you, not to Ieyasu.' Tsuna's intuition translated, making him chuckle. "I am planning to take it back. Maybe with the storm ring. My storm will be honored to have it, I think. Since you know, Primo's first mate was G, his storm."

Xanxus smirked before laughing outloud. "I like that. Contact Varia if you need help."

"Like assassinating the CEDEF boss?" He queried, earning feral grins from those members who have suffered under Iemitsu's accusations. "Maybe next time. When Kaasan requests it."

"Oh darling, Nana-chan doesn't have to say a word. Just a call and we already know." Lussuria winked.

He nodded. "Okay then. Till we meet again? Certainly not from the grape vines."

"Sure sure." The Varia commander waved a hand as they all sauntered out of the compound.

He followed them with his eyes before he closed the door. When he turned around, Reborn was still on his spot, the shadow of his fedora is covering his eyes. It made Tsuna curious of what made the hitman become like this. Maybe his comment about the two rings he wants to have?

"You have to know something before you take the rings, Tsuna." Reborn said.

Tsuna nodded. "What is it?"

"Somewhere around the past three months, the Vongola sky, sun, storm, and rain rings returned to their sealed formed while the cloud, lightning and two mist rings did not."

His jaw dropped. "What?! How can that be? I mean we tried so hard to put them back to their original forms, Talbot-san also created them from scratch, and they suddenly become sealed again?!"

"I have a theory though." His tutor stood up from his leaning form and beckoned him to follow while going to the dining room.

"What is it?" He asked as he did what was asked. "What do you think is happening?"

"Remember why Primo sealed the rings?" Reborn asked as they stacked up the used plates. "It was to keep those who have ill intentions from using the rings' full powers, right?"

"Yes. And it took nine generations, which was our generation, to bring them back to their original states." Tsuna nodded as they moved to the kitchen.

"Since you told me that Primo gave you the X-gloves Vongola-version ring after you vowed to clean the mafia or take it down with you, I theorized that it was you who put them back to their sealed states."

"What?!" He screeched as he put the plates beside the sink. "H-How? I mean why does it has a relation with me?"

"To prosper or to perish, Dame-Tsuna." Reborn reminded as he bonked the brunet's head with his fist. "It was your resolve that your ancestor approved. It was your resolve that made me give you my seal, idiot."

Tsuna blinked as his intuition hummed. "You mean when the ring didn't recognize Ieyasu's resolve as mine, it went back."

"Ieyasu's mindset is to continue Vongola's bloody path while you don't want to." Reborn informed as he removed his coat, necktie and fedora and folded his sleeves. "It caused him a weak resolve because he's not there to protect. You, on the other hand, is willing to take on the mantle to clean Vongola's hands from Secondo's reign up to Nono's or to destroy it if it continues to do such crimes."

He shuddered as his mind wondered to those things he saw in that black scape Roll made him stay. The scape where he saw all the Vongola boss from Primo to Nono. "It was a nightmare. I hated how they took everything by force, killing those innocent women, children and aged. Kept on stabbing one family member to another famiglia. It was stupid. No wonder Primo ran away."

"And yet his descendant is the one who will destroy the group he made. Here, dry it."

He took a dry cloth and received the wet clean plate. "But why did the other rings turn too?"

"Because their resolves changed too. Remember, it's the sky that brings out the best or the worst of his elements. He can lift them up, or destroy them."

"B-But what if the ring doesn't recognize my flames too?"

"Who cares?" The hitman shrugged. "You want the ring because you won it. You want the storm ring because you want to give it to Soma, since he's the first person to harmonize with you, and coincidentally, a storm like G who was the first mate of Giotto de Vongola. You know what, I'm seconding Verde. Maybe the sperm that was used to make you was Primo's, and Iemitsu didn't know because before he even had one intercourse with Mama, someone injected Primo's sperm on her."

Tsuna blushed red and almost lost grip on the plate he was holding. "R-Reborn! Don't say things like that!"

"What? That's part of your biology subject." The hitman grinned. The brunet groaned. "Anyway, since I informed you about it, all you have to think about now is how to take the rings."

"I still have this day and the remaining five to think about it." He said as he stocked another plate on the rack. "I can always rope up my other guardians."

"Good."

Chapter Text

Chapter Thirty-One

"What are you making?" Reborn asked, leaning over the counter to have a look on what he's making.

"Baked eggplant parmesan." He answered as he put the last basil. "I can give you a piece once it's baked."

"What's the occasion? Other than you made the kids really happy these past days. They had been chattering about their classes, unlike when you were gone." The hitman queried as he took some of the cheese.

Tsuna placed the bowl of cheese to the counter for his tutor to reach before putting the baking dish inside the preheated oven. "My intuition is humming. A visitor, I think? And you could've done something about the bullying, Reborn."

"In my state? I can't do anything."

"Or speak about it to Hibari."

"And terrorize the children? You want that?" The hitman asked, mocking a surprise while pausing his hand from putting cheese in his mouth. "Wow. Dame-Tsuna wants to scare kids now."

"That's not what I meant!" He shouted in indignation before huffing and crossing his arms. "Anyway, I think it's okay that I was the one who mediated. At least they now know who to approach if it happens again, unlike when I was a kid that I don't have someone who can tell those bullies to butt off."

"Good job then." The hitman said as he took the bowl, turned around and went for the door. "I'm going out for a bit. Put one on a lunch box so Mama can eat some."

"Roger." He replied and piled the things he used in the sink.

Tsuna went directly to cleaning the house and washing the clothes of five persons (including himself). He didn't forget the food he was baking since it has a timer. And no. Iemitsu hadn't wasted himself because Tsuna either smashed every alcohol bottles right in front of the man (making Bianchi and Reborn smirk, and the kids’ giggle. He even saw Ieyasu snickering), or drain every content in the sink. Hell, if he wants to get wasted, go to the nearby store with sake on it, or even go for another town, rent a hotel and get wasted. Just not in a house with children in it.

When Reborn came again, he put one eggplant parm on each two lunch boxes. The hitman just took it and went out like he ordered a food. Tsuna resisted to roll his eyes and went back to work. He needed to clean his clothes too, since he wants to leave Namimori with clean ones stocked on his duffel bag.

Speaking of duffel bag, he still has a problem.

He and his tutor have been speculating what will Iemitsu do to him once his topic of running away opens up. Number one on their list is locking him up in the house (not that Tsuna can't get away from the house that he knew like the back of his hand). Second is making him come to Italy. Worst-case scenarios? None. (He and Reborn snickered at that.) But that doesn't mean Iemitsu won't do anything when he gets away.

The real worst-case scenario? Iemitsu finding him in Tootsuki, and use someone who has a bigger influence than the director to rule the academy that will force him to go home.

Tsuna dreaded that. Another reason why he's thinking and trying to put himself on the blond's shoes. What will Iemitsu do if Tsuna did 'this'? To be ten steps ahead and prevent any damages, he has to do that. Because even if he has allies, not everyone can outwardly give him any suggestions on what Iemitsu can do since they don't know who that man is, except for Lal.

He was in the middle of hanging the last clothe when he heard voices inside the house. His brows furrowed as he took the basket from the ground and peered from the outside. He can hear a woman talking, some jesting and one familiar voice he hadn't heard for months. Placing the basket on the ground again, he hurriedly went inside to see the Simon who were looking around the house, calling out his name.

The moment he got into their view, he felt air getting knocked out of his lungs when a body got slammed into him. It was instincts to put his arms around the body as they fell on the floor. He mumbled a cry of pain when his back hit the wood pretty hard, but Enma was much of his priority. He sat up a little as the redhead hugged him tighter by the chest. He patted the other's head then nodded to the Simon guardians.

"Good morning, everyone." He greeted.

"S-Sawada!" Adelheid Suzuki uttered in shock.

"You're really here." Kaoru Mizuno said.

"You stupid! You don't worry family like that!" Adelheid shouted and brandished her metal fan, threatening him with a hit.

"If he did say anything, him saying he's running away won't be running away anymore." Rauji Ooyama said as he put a chubby hand on Tsuna's head and patted it. "We should be thankful that Tsuna-kun is alright and back."

Adelheid folded her fan shut and crossed her arms, backing down.

"For the meantime." He added on, putting silence in them. "I can't stay forever, everyone. Even if I want to, I can't be with you if they expect me to give all titles to Ieyasu."

"Who's the older twin between you anyway? Shouldn't you be fighting for the position too?" Julie Kato queried, arms crossing like his girlfriend.

"We don't know who's older. There was no file on us, because Iemitsu erased it so Ieyasu will appear to us like he never existed until recent." He explained as he patted Enma's tense shoulders.

"And twins are curse to mafia." Shittopi informed. "Sometimes, famiglia has to make stupid decisions like killing one of the twins to avoid complication. It's as bad as having three children who all want to succeed the throne. It causes conflict in the inner circle."

"But we can't blame Ieyasu too, since he was only trained to be a boss by Iemitsu, and was told to be the Vongola boss since baby." He stated, sighing. "Anyway, this should be the reason why my intuition told me to make something this morning. Come on, Enma. Help me with the plates and drinks."

"M-Me?" The redhead asked in shock and disbelief as he moved away, pointing at himself.

Tsuna nodded while pulling the other to get up. "Come on. Up we go. We need to get those eggplants on plates."

"You do know that Loser Enma is as clumsy as you, right?" Koyo Aoba reminded, raising a brow.

"I rather have him help me than you who takes everything in a competition." He retorted as he put an arm around his best friend's shoulders.

He heard Shittopi giggle and murmur 'burn' on Koyo, who was so shocked with what he said, as the two of them went for the kitchen. He touched the baking dish if it's still warm before taking some plates from the rack with a plastic spatula. The baked eggplant was still warm to touch and good to eat.

He started to put one on each plate while instructing Enma to get some forks to put on the side of the dishes. He helped the redhead serve them to the latter's guardians before instructing him again to get the orange juice from the fridge. The expression on Koyo's face was priceless when Enma carried the juice to the table while he carried the tray of glasses.

He was going to stop by and check, but his best friend took his elbow and guided him to the kitchen. He stared at Enma when they got inside. The redhead looked at him with wide eyes of awe and amazement.

"You cook." Enma stated.

Tsuna smiled sheepishly as he blushed. "Reborn taught me for three months after the representative battle. It got stopped when they came in. Then it became some kind of a passion and hobby? You know how he can be very scary when he's not satisfied, so it became a goal of mine to serve something good to him."

Enma took refuge of the counter by pulling himself up on it so he could seat. "You seem so different, Tsuna."

The brunet smiled sympathetically before holding out a finger. "One second. I'll get your portion."

"No need." Kaoru said as he placed a tray on the counter near the redhead. It contains a plate of baked eggplant parm and a glass of orange juice. "We'll leave you two alone."

"Thank you." Tsuna and Enma expressed in unison before they looked at each other.

"It's probably the hair?" Tsuna guessed while taking the stool under the counter and sat there. "Flan called me Lion-san because of it."

Enma offered his glass of juice to the brunet. "I won't disagree with him. Even your eyes are narrower, I almost didn't recognize you when you started to tell me what to do. You really looked like a head chef or something in a restaurant."

"You think so?" He asked, chuckling. "I think Kaasan will have me open a restaurant soon with how in love she is to my cooking now. I still love hers though. She's the original between us."

"Do you think Reborn knows how to cook too? When he was older?"

They looked at each other before shrugging.

"So I've been feeling that storm flames latching on you, beside mine." Enma hummed as he put a spoonful in his mouth.

The brunet can't help the quirking of his lips to make a teasing grin towards his best friend. "Don't tell me you're jealous, Enma." The redhead blushed causing him to laugh. "Damn! I found another red pepper! Or do you want to be a red chili?"

"I'm not jealous!" Enma denied vehemently.

Tsuna chuckled. "Do you want to meet my storm?" He pulled out his phone from his pocket before double tapping the screen and showed the picture of his lockscreen. "This is Soma Yukihira, my storm, my other best friend, and a brother by anything but blood. He can be your friend too if you want to. Warning though, he's a better cook than me and he can feed you stupid things that are so horrible in your mouth."

"He's a redhead too?" Kozato blinked before laughing. "You love redheads, don't you? Even Nait Longchamp was smitten by you."

He blushed at that realization. "It's not my fault I'm a redhead magnet!"

"So how did you meet him?" The other asked with an indulgent attention.

They barked themselves to Tsuna's seven months journey. The brunet omitted the school’s name and the surnames since most of his friends allow him to call them by their names. He also assured Enma that Soma can tell who is who in their family with how descriptive the brunet becomes whenever he tells a story to Yukihira.

To Tsuna, Soma maybe new to the whole family, but with how eccentric he is? If Yukihira can fit in to the Polar Star dorm that easily, why not to Sawada's own kind of family? He also thinks that Enma might find it awkward to have someone who's trying to take the brunet away from him, but at least Kozato knows what kind of person Soma is. There are times that a group of people just can't mix together, but as long as they know what their places in one's life, Tsuna doesn't think its a problem. Besides, there's Reborn in the mix. If Gokudera, Takeshi and Ryohei are inseparable right now despite their different personalities, the hitman can do more to make Soma become a member of their family.

"My God. A trouble maker." Enma laughed while hugging his stomach that was so strained from all the cackling he has been doing. "N-No more. I don't know if I can take it."

Tsuna huffed, lips quirking a little. "You're laughing now but once you see and experience how troublesome he is, you'll feel your head ache."

The redhead patted the corners of his eyes to rid them of tears while snickering a little. "Not my head, your head."

"You're not helping." He groaned before sighing and smiling to his friend. "Thank you for visiting though. Even if I already sent you a message."

"It won't compensate how much I want to see you alive and kicking, Tsuna." Enma glared at him with his red compass-like eyes. "I even thought you'll go low that you'll hurt yourself."

"Please. I've endured bullying for nine years without Iemitsu in my life or Kaasan meddling in. I could've killed myself ever since but I'm a coward, remember?" He played with the empty glass. "But really, I don't know what came over me to run away. What I knew was enough is enough. I don't want to be a scapegoat anymore. I wanted to live my life without anyone dictating who I have to become. I wanted to get away by following my guts like how Reborn told me. I could've done some second thoughts, but that time, I didn't."

"You were determined." His best friend smiled at him, proud and happy. "You did great, Tsuna. Really. I may have been worried but I know what I felt when Dino-san told me you ran away. I was happy you're doing decisions on your own. Like it was about time."

Tsuna doesn't know why he felt relieved with what Enma said. "I thought of going to you, you know. But I figured that you'll be the first person they'll contact."

"Yeah. However, if you need help in the future, Simon will gladly provide it for you, Tsuna." The redhead assured.

"What Enma is trying to say is," Julie said as he entered the kitchen and went for the tap. "even if your own enemy is the Vongola itself, we will have your back. We don't know each other that well, Tsuna-san. But I am grateful to what you did to our family." Their fellow teen rinsed his glass and put water in it before walking for the door again. "We allied ourselves to you, Tsuna-san. Not to Vongola as a whole but to you alone." Then he gave a smile with a tilt of his hat before going out to pester Adelheid.

"That's what he said." Enma nodded to Julie's way.

He gave a grateful watery smile. "Thank you, Enma. Really."

"We're family, Tsuna." The redhead grinned.

Tsuna put his phone down on the counter as the kids sat on their seats by the table. They started to chatter about what happened in their classes as he took some ingredients from the fridge and pantry, so he could continue cooking dinner after receiving the kids and instructing them to take a bath already. He glanced at Reborn when the hitman took his phone and went to the kids, just as Bianchi joined them at the table too. He didn't really mind since he doesn't keep secrets on the device and started to chop some condiments.

The Simon went out by afternoon. He wanted to cook dinner for Enma and his guardians so he invited them for dinner, but they refused, saying they needed to check with Hibari for coming to his house unannounced and then go back to class to avoid further punishments. Julie joked that they could use Tsuna as a reason to get away from Hibari's biting, which the brunet and redhead considered. Who knows? Hibari might really consider.

(Hibari really did.)

(Kyouya Hibari is going soft.)

(Nah. Impossible.)

"Rauji was here?!" Lambo exclaimed. "Why didn't you tell me, Baka-Tsuna?!"

"You were at school." Tsuna replied as he put a pan on the stove. "Are you willing to skip school just for Rauji? He'll be very sad and Kaasan will be sad too if she hears it."

Lambo slumped.

"Don't worry. You'll see him again in the weekends. And for-" He did a quick count in his head of how many more days he will be there. "-three days every afternoon."

"Oh. Okay." Lambo nodded, blinking. "I have five days more with you, right? It means I can still meet them tomorrow and the day after then every afternoon."

"Good job." He said, amazed at how his lightning calculated his days with his friend while in the brunet's presence.

"Tehe!" Lambo preened.

"Woah. Pretty." Ipin gushed, making Tsuna look over.

Fuuta made the phone face him. "Who are they, Tsuna-nii?"

He blinked and smiled. "The blondie is Erina-chan and the white-haired is Alice. The guy in the middle is Soma."

"Erina-nee-chan and Alice-nee-chan are pretty." Ipin praised. Tsuna only hummed as he flipped the fish on the pan. "Oh. Who are they?"

He glanced back before returning to cooking. "Ah. Ryouko-chan is the one with long hair. She does unique cooking. Like growing and fermenting natto. Yuki-chan is the orange one. She's very cheerful and likes taking care of animals. And Megumi-chan is the girl with blue hair. She cut a fish while hanging."

"What kind of person is Soma-nii-san?" Lambo asked while zooming in on the aforementioned redhead. "He looks so cool."

"Soma?" He repeated before scrunching his face. "He's like a kid who can make delicious and horrible food. He's really friendly too. Competitive sometimes and a trouble maker."

"E-Eh?" The three voiced, surprised.

He chuckled as he checked if the rice is done. "He's really playful. But very sensitive to others. Even if you don't want help, he'll help you. He'll make you smile with his food and with his stupid jokes. He's..." His mind flashed him the moment Soma finally talked to him when they had a misunderstanding. "Home."

"Should I blush now?" Tsuna looked back to them to see the redhead moving on the screen of his phone. Soma grinned widely, eyes crinkling. "Hi Tsuna."

"Why are you calling at a time like this?" He asked, turning to his pot of soup to hide his blush. God. He feels so embarrassed to be caught. He can even feel Reborn's laughing smirk on his back. "It's dinner, Soma."

"I know. But I wanna talk to you first before I eat dinner." Soma chirped then pinned his attention to the kids who answered his call while the brunet was talking about him. "Hey kiddo! What's your name?"

"I'm Fuuta." Fuuta answered with a beam before gesturing to the other people in the table as he turned the phone around. "This is Ipin."

"Nice to meet you, Soma-nii." Ipin greeted with a small bow of her head.

"Oh. Chinese, right?" The redhead nodded, remembering the kid who blows up from Tsuna's stories. He smiled. "You're pretty."

Ipin blushed. "Thank you."

"I'm the great Lambo-sama!" Lambo introduced himself, puffing his chest.

"Oh. Good evening, Lambo-sama." Soma greeted, snickering a little. Even the brunet snickered from the kitchen. "Nice name."

Lambo beamed, just as Tsuna put bowls of rice on each person.

"She's Bianchi-san." Fuuta introduced as he faced the phone to Bianchi who smiled.

"She's the one I was talking about, Soma." Tsuna said as he puts bowls of soup on the table. Bianchi looked at him in surprise.

"Oh." The redhead uttered before bowing a little. "Thank you for making Tsuna eat all those foods. Oyaji had fun feeding him all the stuffs we could make."

"I feel like I can sympathize with Shiomi-sensei." Tsuna mumbled as he put plates of fishes on each person.

"You said you don't mind." The redhead jabbed.

"I thought I said 'I feel like'." He countered sticking his tongue out before gesturing for Fuuta to make the camera face Reborn. "Soma, this is Reborn, my tutor. Reborn, that is Soma Yukihira, my best friend."

"Chaos." Reborn greeted with a tip of his hat. "A pleasure to finally meet you, Soma."

"You're Reborn?! Woah!" The redhead interjected with amazement. Tsuna left them to get the other side dishes. "Thank you for teaching Tsuna how to cook. He's really really good at it."

Reborn nodded with a smirk. "You're welcome. Do you want to meet my partner Leon too?"

"Where- Woah! Is that a chameleon on your hat? Is that Leon? That's so cool." The children snickered with Bianchi at how awed Soma sounded. "His name is Leon?"

"Yes. He can turn to a gun." Reborn nodded and took his partner from his hand, making Leon turn to a gun. "See."

"Can he turn to something else? Like a laptop? Or a phone? Or a rope?" Yukihira shot off.

"Wait till he turns into a slipper to slap you on the forehead." Tsuna warned as he stood by the side of the table and clapped his hand. "There. Dinner is ready."

"Soma-kun! Dinner is ready!" A girl's voice said from the other side.

"Aww." The kids pouted, making Tsuna and Soma look at each other and grin.

"Don't worry, you guys. We can still talk tomorrow." Soma assured. "Maybe after breakfast? I can still squeeze some time by then. Not that Tsuna will mind since I call him at that time."

The three glanced at each other. "Promise?"

"Promise." The redhead said with a hand raised. "And no, I'm not crossing my fingers."

The kids laughed before passing the phone to Tsuna. He raised the phone to let everyone on the table see the redhead while he let the other see them as a whole. "I'll call later, yeah?"

Yukihira bobbed his head in agreement. "Yeah. Bye guys. Nice meeting you!"

"Bye Soma-nii!" The three kids bid while Bianchi and Reborn nodded.

The screen went blank, indicating that Soma cut the line. Tsuna locked his phone and pocketed it just as the door of the house opened and Ieyasu's silent 'I'm home' was heard from the foyer. Tsuna and the children looked at each other before loudly saying 'welcome home'.

They snickered when they heard the blond bump himself somewhere in surprise and yelped in pain. The brunet popped his head to the hallway to see his twin wincing in pain while holding his elbow.

"Come on, Ieyasu. Dinner's ready." He said to the blond who looked up to him in surprise. "The soup will get cold."

"Y-Yes!" The blond nodded before stepping in.

When he got back to the table, Reborn is staring at him. Tsuna only shrugged as he sat on his spot.

Chapter Text

Chapter Thirty-Two

"When will I get home?" Nana whined, pouting in irritation. "It's not fun being here."

Tsuna chuckled while staring at his cards. "It can't be helped, Kaasan. But if you really want to get out, you can just persuade your husband."

"I don't know, Tsu-kun." The mother sighed as she made a face before taking one of his cards. "I think he's more of an idiot than me. Who makes a person, who only fainted and had been said clear, stay in the hospital for a month?!" Then she groaned.

The brunet took a card from her fort and surveyed his to take out any pair. He placed one pair on the table. "Well, you can ask Reborn or Lal. Maybe make you stay for four more days?"

"Are you going on the fourth?" Nana asked in a low voice as she took a card from his and placed a pair on the table.

"At night, Kaasan." He answered as he took from hers and let the pair fall. "We can still cook together at lunch."

"I like that. But why at night?" Nana narrowed her eyes as she picked a card among the three remaining ones of her son.

"So I can escape your husband more easily, Kaasan." He replied easily. "He can follow me if the sun is still up. But if it's dark, I can lose him and his friends on the way."

She paused. "I've been hearing you call him 'your husband'."

"Or would you rather me call him by his name in front of you?" The son asked in a careful manner, switching feet to put on top of his crossed legs to remove the stiffness on the other.

"You don't recognize him as your father anymore?" Nana asked with a tilt of her head. He nodded. "Well, it can't be helped." Then she took a card and put a pair down.

"You're not mad?" Tsuna queried as he took a card from his mother's and put the last pair before giving her his last card.

"I can't be." Nana scrunched her face when she got the unpaired card. The brunet grinned as he revealed the lone card at the corner of the table. "I understand why you gave up on him."

He took the card from her and started to arrange the deck while Nana leaned back to her reclined bed. The two of them went silent, digesting what their topic had become.

It was one of those slow days where Tsuna left the house and the children to Bianchi's care. Reborn left him to ‘supervise’ Ieyasu and his guardians' training with Iemitsu. It was to stir the blond away from the two of them. The Simon visited by the morning and started to do their own thing except for Rauji and Enma who stayed at the house. Rauji wanted to play with the kids while Enma holed in Tsuna and Reborn's room to have a good sleep (Tsuna thinks Enma was sleeping quite soundly when he left him).

(Back in the house, Enma would snuggle on Tsuna’s bed regardless of the hot weather while feeling the harmony of sky and sun flames in the room.)

Dino and Romario were the ones who took him to the hospital. They talked about little things, family business, health, and the likes. The Arcobaleno were somewhere; not wanting to leave Namimori until he did. The Varia went back to Italy, minus Mammon, to remove Vongola's suspicions on them. Not even Iemitsu knows that they went to Japan to see him.

Honestly, Tsuna is glad that he saw them. But he can't stomach seeing Iemitsu. He's not bitter or anything. Just uneasy. Always alert. The only time he feels alright when the man is near him is whenever Reborn is there. It's not just him who's highstrung on the blond, even his intuition is on full warning. With how strong it is now? It will never be wrong on any side.

"When you told me you needed to get away," Tsuna looked up to see his mother gazing outside the window. "I realized that I was lacking. I've been with you since you were a baby until you became fifteen, and yet, I wasn't able to see what was wrong until the day you decided to run away. It was hard to accept my faults as a mother. To remember all those times I couldn't help you with the bullying you've been experiencing since I believed of what he said that it was just the children's way of making friends—which was wrong because children are really insensitive when adults don't oversee what they're doing. Those times I should be comforting you instead of calling you a dame like all of your schoolmates do. Kyoko-chan was right, you're my son so how can I call you a dame instead of supporting you?"

He gulped the lump on his throat as he looked down to the deck of cards in his hands.

"I don't really know if I should thank Reborn-kun for filling up my role nicely or be hateful because he was able to see you grow as you are now. I should be the one who should be there when you first won your fight in the middle school. When you played volleyball, got your first high score and see you with your friends. I should be the one you're searching for when you got home or when you have problems. But what can I do? It's like at one second, you were still hanging inside the house and playing video games, then the next moment, I see you going out, your back straight and your shoulders broader. You grew up without me noticing it. Not until you decided to leave.

"It hurts, but I now know my incompetence as a mother. I thought you left because you had enough of us, not just because of Iemitsu and Ie-kun or because you got suffocated with what's happening. However, to see you return, even for a bit, it erased half of my worries." Nana turned her head to look at the brunet and smiled as tears cascaded to her cheeks. "I will never be able to tell you to love your father, or don't give up on him. Or even give him a chance because we both know he doesn't deserve it. I could've been enough to take care of you and Ie-kun, but he took your twin away without me noticing. He took one away and tried to pamper him only to fail. If he can't do it to you, how can he do it to him? So, I understand if you don't want to call him your father anymore, Tsu-kun. You have the rights since he was never a father figure to you."

Tsuna pursed his lips and blinked his eyes to remove the sting before looking up to see his mother. He smiled, thankful and happy. "Thank you, Kaasan."

"Oh God." Nana uttered as she tried to erase the tears on her cheeks. "I cried."

He chuckled and reached out for the box of tissues on the side table. "You're still pretty even if you cry, Kaasan."

"Oh you sweet talker." The mother chided lightly, causing them to laugh.

They played a couple more rounds of cards before Tsuna decided to excuse himself to go home and give Nana a rest. He did promise that he'll be back with her own share of dinner. When he got outside the hospital, he fished out his phone from his pocket and stared at the blank screen. The brunet contemplated.

Pursing his lips, he opened it, went to phone icon and pressed 'two' for speed dial. Soma's name flashed as his call tried to connect. He put the phone by his left ear and waited for the ringing to stop. When he thought Soma won't answer and about to turn it off, the other side picked up.

"Hello Tsuna? What's wrong?" Soma's voice resounded from the other side.

"Hmm? Just checking." He replied softly as he kicked the ground, head bowed down to see his shoe at work. He should bring back another pair to Tootsuki. Or two.

"Are you sure? My gut is telling me that you aren't."

Silence.

"It's Kaasan." He answered, pursing his lips after as he tried to keep himself from crying. "She... I-I didn't know. I thought she'll be happy if I'm not here. I mean I'm just a useless son to her. Lazy, incompetent, a coward. B-But I didn't know she was hurting after I left. Soma..." He closed his eyes and hiccuped as tears flowed. "I'm sorry."

Silence.

"Tsuna, if you didn't leave, she won't know how much she loves you." The redhead remarked. "You said so yourself, remember? When she wished us good luck, you said it was her first time wishing it to you? If you didn't leave, she won't realize how important you are to her. It's always like that. We have to lose something first before we realize how we should be thankful that we have it. At least she knows you'll come back and be with her from time to time."

Tsuna sobbed and tried to calm himself. "She said she understands if I don't recognize him anymore."

"Really? Woah. She sure knows how much you suffered there."

The brunet chuckled ironically. "I think so too."

"Good. You're laughing. You scared me there."

"It's because you never saw me cry." He replied as he dried his cheeks with the sleeves of his hoodie. "God. I miss you. I just want to go back and support you or something."

"Likewise, Little bro."

"What little? I'm the older one between us." He queried as he started to walk for the house's direction.

"No. I'm older. My birthday is November."

"Hah!" Tsuna shouted in triumphant. "Tough luck, I'm on October."

"November ‘sixteen’." Soma emphasized.

"October fourteen." He simply said, earning a groan. "Nice try, Little bro."

"You-"

Unknown to Tsuna, he was being watched by Haru and Kyoko. They saw him cry while listening to him talk to the person on the phone. It was something they never saw him do or hear from the others that Tsuna cried in front of them. The girls looked at each other when the brunet laughed as he walked on and started to tease the other person on the phone.

"Tsuna-kun changed." Kyoko hummed as she adjusted how she holds the small box of cake in her hands.

"Yeah." Haru nodded with a thoughtful look on her face. "Should we visit the house?"

"Maybe when Mama gets discharged. In that way, we have an excuse to be there other than the children." Kyoko said as they continued their walk to the hospital. "Fuuta-kun told me that Tsuna-kun is taking care of them well. If so, then we can't barge in so suddenly."

"Okay." Haru responded before looking down at the box. "I hope Mama likes the cake."

Kyoko beamed. "I hope so too."

The children stared at the map on the table then eyed Tsuna who was smiling encouragingly. Bianchi, who was watching everything, stifled a laughter. With all that made new Tsuna really different from the old Tsuna, it's the low level of craziness he's been doing.

Bianchi can't stop watching the brunet since he came home that evening. She usually doesn't mind him since she has Reborn to think of, and hey! He ran away, so why think of what happened to him? But to see him doesn't get awkward while listening to the kids cry out of panic and worry, and console them in the end without blabbering anything. Then to see him cook in the kitchen, ask her do things for him and be indulgent with the kids to talk about what happened after he left. Her mind pursued her to watch the kid while he's still there.

(Because coming back doesn't mean he's home.)

He was always low-key since he came back, but his craziness is still there. Who can make Reborn wash the plates with him except for Tsuna? Who can make Nana relax by just playing cards except for him? He even put Hibari, Mukuro and Chrome at ease and back to normal (to the extent that Hibari and Mukuro started to spar again in the forest), and harmonized with them on the same day. He controlled the three chaotic groups by just being there (which are the Arcobaleno, Varia and Simon). What she didn't really believe was the fact that he was able to stop the bullying on the kids. He was concerned when he noticed something was wrong, and started to change things. It was amazing because none of them have tried to change anything.

She'll even think that Tsuna will go with Reborn's craziness some of these days.

"Come on. Pick a country and we'll make one dessert from there." Tsuna urged the kids.

"Any country?" Fuuta asked, unsure.

"Any country." The brunet nodded.

"What's happening?" She looked at Reborn who just arrived.

"Tsuna is making the kids decide which country they'll like to have its dessert." She replied just as the kids whispered among themselves and Tsuna went back to securing the food he's cooking is in a good state.

"Huh." Her fellow hitman uttered.

They watched the kids list off good desserts from the countries they know.

"I don't know if I should feel disappointed or pity Hayato." She started, leaning back to the wall as the kids started to yell France and ice cream. "If he stayed with Tsuna, he could've been here right now, laughing with him or just being crazy. He could've seen how happy Tsuna is or feel so at home like Soma does."

"But if Hayato didn't let Tsuna go, my student won't be like this right now." Reborn responded, taking consideration of the new Tsuna. "He won't be good at cooking and as useless as he was a year ago."

Bianchi watched Tsuna teach the kids how to make a batter. She nodded. "True."

"Hayato has a good future, Bianchi." The hitman assured as he stepped in the room. "But he's loyal to Vongola, not to Tsuna."

Bianchi stayed on her spot for a minute, digesting what Reborn said. She only moved when Tsuna invited her to help them on spreading the batter on the cookie sheet. The kids were pretty excited for the dessert, but Tsuna urged the kids to help him set the table for ten people. When she asked why ten when they're only eight, she discovered that Hayato and Yamamoto were coming in.

She's impressed though. The dinner wasn't any special. The usual Japanese meal with a bowl of rice, simmered flounder, fried tofu, and miso soup with taro roots and daikon radish. The only thing different was the dessert of the night. Since Tsuna came, he always serves desserts for the kids. It was usually based on Japanese desserts, but today, the kids picked what country they want.

When the table was set, Ieyasu came in with his guardians. The kids and Tsuna, like any other evenings, answered 'welcome home' whenever Ieyasu announces his arrival. When they got settled (with awkward glances on Tsuna who was trying to keep Lambo from jumping on him), Iemitsu came in. But unlike with Ieyasu, no one responded. When the 'man' of the house sat on his seat (which was on the right of Reborn because Tsuna took one end, and hitman took the other), they all murmured 'Itadakimasu' before starting to eat.

"You played mafia?" Tsuna asked with a brow raised on the three children. "With Shittopi, Adelheid, Julie, Rauji, and Enma. How many rounds?"

The kids looked upwards to remember.

"Nine." Bianchi answered. She took a piece of her flounder while recalling their game. "Kaoru was our mediator."

"Oh. Who won then?" The brunet asked with a mischievous grin to the three. "I bet Lambo was always struck out."

"No! It was Adelheid-nee who was always out!" Lambo shook his head as he took some of Tsuna's fish in revenge of speculating such a thing. "She's scary so she's always out! Enma-nii and Rauji always take Julie last because they don't want him to come to nee-san!"

"And then Shittopi-nee and Bianchi-san won a lot. We won't know they were the mafia because they always mediate." Fuuta pouted.

"You should become hitmen then." Tsuna said as he put a radish on his fellow brunet's bowl of rice. "You'll never know, you'll be as good as Bianchi or Reborn someday."

The tutor smirked as Bianchi smiled. "I am the world's greatest."

"When you grow up, we can go back to taking hits, my love." She gushed, making the children snicker.

"After Dame-Tsuna graduates from me." Reborn responded as he took a sip on his soup.

Tsuna blinked, pausing from putting a tofu on Ipin's bowl. "I think my head just short-circuited on what to decide. Pick Bianchi's love and let go of Reborn, or keep Reborn to keep Bianchi."

The kids made thoughtful expressions to Bianchi's horror. "We pick number two!"

"Number two then." The brunet nodded before continuing on what he was doing. He sheepishly, with a teasing glint, smiled at her. "Sorry, Bianchi."

Bianchi groaned. "I knew I should've killed you when I had a chance."

"Too bad then." The teen laughed causing the children to laugh too.

As the banter goes on, Bianchi discreetly looked at her brother's way. Their side is pretty quiet. Iemitsu is trying to engage them with small talks but none wants to do it. The three were all looking at Tsuna's way, wanting to talk to the brunet, but couldn't do it since they weren't being addressed.

When everyone was finished eating and the dishes were put away to the kitchen to be washed, Tsuna made the kids stay put as he prepares the dessert. Reborn stood up to help, causing those who're not accustomed to the hitman volunteering go stiff and rigid. The two came back with trays of saucers of 'shells' or tulipes, as Tsuna dubbed, that they made awhile ago with a scope of two ice creams on top of each.

The kids were ecstatic since they helped making the shells. She even received one with violet and pink colored ice creams. She can't help her smile since she also helped in shaping the shells. It's like the mess they made before eating dinner awhile ago was worth it. When she ate it, it was... Cold and warm at the same time. The ice cream was creamy and light, melts moderately on the mouth with an everlasting taste of small acidity in it. Sweet yet sour. A new combination. The warm part though... It's not on the food. Unexplainable of how she could feel it. It's like when she swallows, her throat to stomach warms up in a way that it soothes the eater of the dessert.

"W-Woah." Yamamoto uttered when he tasted the ice cream. "This is tasty."

"It's homemade." Reborn chimed as he ate his. "Right, Tsuna?"

"Hmm. Yeah. It's not that creamy, is it?" The brunet asked to the hitman.

"No. I can rate it three stars."

"You're impossible." The teen sighed before turning to her. "What do you think, Bianchi-san?"

"Four." She stated, smirking. It caused the brunet to groan.

"Ten, Tsuna-nii!" The kids consoled with happy smiles. "We like it!"

"It's cold but warm." Fuuta said with a fond smile.

"It's not that sweet. It tastes sour too. Like a sour candy!" Lambo nodded as he took a spoonful.

"And I see France!" Ipin added on in delight.

That points to a question, so she asked, "Where did you get this, Tsuna?"

"TV." The brunet simply answered as he mixed the shell to the ice cream by turning them to pieces. "It was pretty simple to make. Especially the ice cream."

"Oho. So used that?" Reborn grinned that earned an equal look-a-like grin from Tsuna. "Naughty."

"What that?" She asked, curious of what the two is talking about.

"Secret." They chorused.

She could only roll her eyes at how the two is growing on each other and taking up the other's pieces of personality. Almost like they're harmonizing or something.

That made her pause and watch the two who were eating their desserts. Admittedly unnoticeable, there are still hints. Like how Reborn volunteers, smirks often, laughing outwardly even. It can pass on as teenage hormones even with how open he is sometimes. Tsuna's way of smirking, brand of low-key craziness and how he changes things. It can pass on as being observant and unable to stand the disorder with how he is or even the nostalgic sense of being out of the place he has been in since birth. But still... It's like the two were really harmonizing.

To think that Tsuna will get the most dangerous man in the underground as his sun.

God. She concedes. She can't take Reborn away if the latter has a sky now. Not that she has a chance.

"Something wrong, Bianchi-san?" Tsuna asked, worried.

Bianchi smiled while leaning back. "Just thinking of finding myself a sky."

"You can always go under my wing." The brunet shrugged, causing the table to go silent. "According to science, the sky can hold a lot of elements. Like two storms, two kinds of rains, many kinds of clouds and many more. But there are always the main elements. Like a main storm, sun, cloud, mist, rain, and lightning. So you can be under my wing."

"You're being greedy, Dame-Tsuna." Reborn pointed out.

He hummed, eyes narrowing in mischief. "Am I?"

"Don't go smart ass on me, you Idiot. Go prepare Mama's food and dessert. We're both going." The hitman ordered, kicking the brunet under the table.

"Oi oi. Don't kick me. I don't want a broken bone." Tsuna jested before jumping out of the chair to get away. "Okay, I should wash the plates first-"

"I-I'll do it." They all looked at Ieyasu who stood up. "Go prepare Kaasan's bento."

"Okay. Thanks, Ieyasu." Tsuna saluted before going back to the kitchen, humming Lambo's song.

Bianchi looked at Reborn who shrugged. Huh. It's not only Nana and Tsuna who are growing. Ieyasu is starting to take steps too.

"We're back." Tsuna announced as he removed his shoes from the foyer and slipped it to the cabinet.

"Where were you?" He looked up to see Iemitsu by the threshold of the living room, gazing at him like he did something he wasn't supposed to do.

"With Reborn." He answered as he slipped on his slippers and opened the dining room to check if it was clean. It was. "Good job, Ieyasu." He praised quietly to the blond, who is doing his homework with his guardians, before silently closing it again and moving to the stairs.

"I'm still talking to you, Tsuna." The blond said, crossing his arms, making him halt. "Where were you?"

Tsuna put his arm on the banister, and leaned sideways to see Iemitsu. "I was with Reborn. If you want to know where we went, go ask your subordinates who were following us. Or just Reborn." Then he went on.

Silence.

"What's happening to you, Tsuna?" The CEDEF leader voiced, serious with his arms uncrossing. "You suddenly went gone for seven months and you came back like a whole different person."

Tsuna stopped from walking at that. He eyed Iemitsu then the dining door that slid open a little.

"You don't even acknowledge us nor notice what kind of damage you did when you went gone."

He then looked up to see Bianchi and the kids gazing at him worriedly from the second floor of the house.

"You're not the Tsuna we know anymore. You're becoming selfish and uncooperative-"

"Wait," Tsuna said in incredulity, making the man pause. "Aren't you describing yourself? Me? Selfish and uncooperative? Should I tell you how many years you were gone from this house? Leaving me and Kaasan alone, visiting rarely but leaving after a week or even three days, and never calling for once except to hear her voice and never letting her speak of what's happening in Namimori? Then you suddenly come home like nothing happened?"

His intuition warned him of the door opening.

"Excuse me, but at least I did something productive when I came back from my disappearance. I at least came back when someone called me that my mother collapsed. Unlike you, who gave a not-believable excuse even after hearing what happened." He finished off with a pointed stare.

"Tsuna." He didn't turn back to Reborn who called him. Not chiding, scolding, or admonishing. Not angry nor anything. "That's enough."

"You're grounded." Iemitsu gritted. "You will never step foot outside of Namimori premises."

"Pft. Whatever you say." He smirked, causing every listener to freeze. Hah. They thought he'll strike a protest? Psh.

"I'm confiscating your phone too." Iemitsu demanded and about to step forward when the brunet opened his mouth.

"Ieyasu." The door of the dining room opened slowly and his twin went out, looking away. He fished out his phone. "Heads up."

"Wha-"

He tossed it and the blond caught it. Ieyasu stared at him with wide eyes. "Good job. Take care of that." Then he started to ascend the stairs.

"I'm not yet done, Tsuna!" Iemitsu yelled in anger and authority.

"Well, I am." He answered simply.

He ushered the kids to go back to their rooms before going to his. He removed his jacket before going out for the kids. He waved at Reborn who paused by the stairs as he went inside the children's room. He tucked in Lambo and Fuuta, who were sharing a bed, then Ipin too who has a bed for herself. They voiced their concerns regarding the talk downstairs, but he only answered it with a finger to his lips and a wink that made them giggle.

When he went out, he immediately went for his room, saluting at Bianchi's way as heavy footsteps ascended the stairs. He was grinning at Reborn when he closed the door. The hitman (already dressed in his sleepwear) rolled his eyes and gestured him to change while going for the door when heavy knocks resounded from there.

"What is it, Iemitsu?" Reborn questioned in a deadpanned voice when he opened the door.

"I want to talk to Tsuna." Iemitsu replied.

Tsuna stuck his tongue out as he slipped on a new shirt. His clothes in the house have become too small for him. Good thing he did the laundry the other day. He should probably give his clothes to Fuuta and Lambo.

"I heard him say he's done talking to you."

"Reborn, I need to talk to Tsuna."

"Give me a good reason why I have to make him go out there and talk to you."

"He needs to be put down with the attitude he showed-"

"Well, isn't he right?" That made the man shut up, causing Tsuna to muffle his snickers as he pulled on his sweatpants. "It even took Lal to pull you out of Italy because you have works to do which she said it wasn't true. Ask Nana once you go back to hospital. She knows that you don't want to come home to see her. Now, get lost." Then Reborn slammed the door close.

"Thanks." Tsuna whispered as he arranged his futon.

"You didn't have to blow up on him." His tutor remarked.

"I didn't. And he started it. He was asking where I was when he knew we're together." He flopped on the bed and yawned. "I don't even want to talk to him. Even Ieyasu didn't ask me why I went away. At least his son has some sensibility in him, unlike him. Do you think Kaasan's genes is stronger in our veins? I won't be surprised if Verde did find out that our father is Giotto." He yawned again and closed his eyes. "I'll be very happy if he was..."

Reborn sighed fondly and took the blanket from the side. He put it on Tsuna before patting the kid's mane. Leon jumped down to the futon and snuggled close to his student's neck. And like every night they retire, sky flames started to reach out and grasped his sun flames in a tight hold; afraid to be alone. The hitman sighed again, reached out for the light to tug it off before laying on the bed.

"At this rate, I won't be surprised if we harmonize, Dame-Tsuna." He mumbled before closing his eyes to sleep.

Chapter Text

Chapter Thirty-Three

Tsuna sighed as he jogged. He's worried about Soma. The redhead will definitely call later if he fails to do it first. The problem though was the fact that his phone got confiscated. Damn. Why didn't he think about it first? He's so damn impulsive (although he doesn’t really regret it; just worried).

In irritation, Tsuna started to jab the air with his knuckles, gritting his teeth and trying to imagine Iemitsu he's the one he was punching. He started to give a combo of kick and punched before doing a somersault to get away from a punch that he imagined coming his way. Damn. He suddenly remembered how he got defeated. If Reborn didn't help him, he could've died.

Experience. Power. Intelligence.

He lacks those three. But Reborn did say he has the most unyielding dying will no one can match.

"Extreme punching!" Tsuna looked back to see Ryohei gawking at him. "You're an extreme man, Tsuna!"

He gave a small smile. "I hope so, Ryohei-sempai."

Ryohei's brows furrowed a little. "You can extremely call me onii-san, Tsuna."

"I don't want to trouble you in mistaking me to Ieyasu." He replied with a shake of his head. "It's good to see you though. Doing well in high school?"

"Yeah! I'm extremely with Hibari and Mukuro!" The white head cheered.

Tsuna started to jog again, being joined by his upperclassman. "That's good. Though I didn't see Mukuro in Nami-high's uniform."

"They extremely fought about it! It became a draw so they went for an extreme deal that Mukuro will keep the uniform while Hibari will have a spar with him! But they stopped since you extremely went away!"

"Oh."

"It's extremely good to see you again, Tsuna! You become an extreme man!" Ryohei exclaimed with a cheer that made Tsuna blush a little. "It's nice you can still tolerate my extreme loudness!"

He chuckled. "I have a friend who can talk for hours, Ryohei-sempai. So it's not a big deal."

"Tsuna." The brunet halted and looked back to see Ryohei looking at him with solemnity. "If you can't call me Onii-san, you can still call me Ryohei-nii. It's okay."

He pursed his lips, contemplating. "I'm not going to stay longer here."

"It's okay. It's just that it doesn't feel right to hear you call me sempai when I told you to call me Onii-san a year ago. Our situation doesn't mean you didn't fight Mochida to keep him away from Kyoko. You're still a little brother to me, Tsuna. So, it's extremely okay," Sasagawa assured with a wide smile. "Otōto!"

"Then," He smiled. "let's go run a little more, Ryohei-nii-san."

"Extreme!"

If Reborn rose a brow at him for calling Ryohei that when the other ran his way home, he didn't say anything. They know the white head is Ieyasu's sun guardian, and he's not going to take him away anytime.

Tsuna pulled his headphones down and sighed in happiness. It was nice to talk to Soma while washing the dishes. Soma was whiny though because the redhead wants to have a video chat. Tsuna has to tell the redhead that he's washing the dishes when he called. Regardless, Soma was still grumbling even until they said goodbye (albeit jokingly).

He fingered his headphone before going back to the dining room where the kids, Bianchi and Reborn were with, Leon-phone in the middle of the table. Speaking of his tutor, Reborn gave him his headphone that morning when he was about to start the dishes. It was 'ringing' when he put it on. When he said 'receive', just like what Reborn said to him, he heard the redhead's voice and they went on conversing about the things they could talk about. He didn't even get to ask how come his headphones can receive calls.

And now, they're holding up a meeting regarding his plan to run away again. But this time, he's running away from Iemitsu.

"Sorry for the wait." He apologized sheepishly. "Soma held me up."

"It was no problem, Tsunayoshi." Aria said in the Arcobaleno's side.

"Took you long enough, Brat!" Xanxus shouted from the Varia's.

"No problem, Tsuna." Dino assured.

"Just in time, we reached the cliff." Enma hummed from Simon's.

"So where is the subject?" Lussuria asked.

"Iemitsu is with Ieyasu and his guardians, probably supervising their training if he couldn't show his face to Mama." Reborn informed from his spot by the table.

"We're just going to talk about how we're going to help Tsuna, right?" Asked by Colonnello.

"Yeah." He replied. "But not right now. In the future. I already contacted the Vendice and Kawahira-san. The Vendice have promised me that they're going to help me stop him. Kawahira-san's work is to know who he's going to work with."

"Then our role is what?" Lal asked.

"Find evidences." Reborn said, crossing his arms. "With what Tsuna said to him last night, he'll probably visit more here in Namimori. In the process, he'll also supervise Ieyasu's training and find a good cloud and mist for him."

"What happened, Tsuna? What does Reborn mean?" Enma asked, worried.

"We had a small spat. Just made some reality check that caused me to be grounded within the premises of Namimori." He waved off like it wasn't a big deal.

"He grounded you?" Mukuro, who materialized by the door with Chrome and Hibari, tittered. Tsuna is not gonna question how his mists managed to rope up the prefect in coming with them without any protest. "That's some stupidity."

"Oh Lal," The hitman sang, suddenly remembering something. "Tsuna asked me something some days ago."

Tsuna blushed, knowing what it is, as Lal asked. "What?"

"He asked if it's legal to disown a parent." Reborn responded.

There was silence for a second before everyone started to laugh. Even the kids started to laugh, understanding what the brunet was intending to do. Hibari had to turn around to cover his snickers, but his shaking shoulders were indication that he was laughing. The loudest were the Varia, especially Xanxus. Tsuna had to hide his face in his hands in embarrassment while Reborn was only smirking. Well, it wasn't everyday that he gets to tease his student again.

"Y-You want to disown Iemitsu?" Dino rhetorically queried between his snickers. "Mio Dio. This is priceless."

"My first time-" Colonnello gasped before laughing more. "-hearing this! And from Tsuna too!"

"I didn't know you have it in you, Trash!" Squalo shouted before guffawing.

Tsuna just pouted.

"Okay. Hoo." Enma tried to calm down. "Let's calm down, everyone. Tsuna is probably embarrassed by now. Also, we won't get anywhere if we don't start."

A series of coughs, giggles and clearing of throats were heard. Hibari turned around with composed face, but Mukuro and Chrome were still laughing quietly.

"Stop it." Tsuna chided to his mists, still pouting and red faced.

"Kufufufu. Okay, okay." Mukuro placated, reigning over his tittering. "So the division of tasks. What do you two have in mind?"

Tsuna looked at Reborn, who nodded, before opening his mouth. "I was thinking that since the Varia is near the Iron fort, they could take care of watching Vongola and Nono. I've heard that he's trying to talk to you, Xanxus."

"He is. Trying to reconcile with me and change my mind about that scum." The wrath clipped, then paused before continuing in a tone that spoke understanding of what they're role is. "You want us to keep tabs on them and know if Iemitsu tells him things."

"Yes. Vongola won't move until its Don doesn't say a word. Especially when the Don doesn't get persuaded to do something when everything is peaceful. After all, Iemitsu is the external adviser. He can influence Nono by just mere words." Reborn added on. "If possible, record something. Evidence is what we need."

"We are still under suspicion, Hitman." Belphegor reminded. "We cannot move as we want."

"Gain trust, gain evidences. Nono will tell Xanxus things to show that he trusts him. So as long as he doesn't suspect that the Varia is still rooting for Tsuna, you can get what you want." Reborn shrugged.

"Fine." Xanxus grumbled.

"Hibari's and Simon's job is to clean Namimori of Vongola and CEDEF agents." Tsuna continued, checking his mental list. "They'll deploy people here to check up on everyone for any connection to me. All except for Reborn."

"Except Reborn?" Julie repeated.

"No one wants to fight the world's greatest hitman, Julie." Enma said. "Especially when Reborn is in his age now. No offense, Reborn."

"No. He's as destructive as a nuclear bomb. He'll even have fun killing Vongola mafiosi and say it's self-defense or just because he's bored." Mammon snorted.

"You know me so well, Viper." Reborn hummed.

Tsuna 'pft'-ed before continuing. "Bianchi-san's job is to protect Kaasan and the kids. Whenever he's here in Namimori though, Mukuro will tail him." Mismatch eyes narrowed in protest. "Chrome will be the provider of your clone since I want you to focus on him, Mukuro. That way, you can focus all your mist in covering you. He won't be seeing it since he'll think you don't know anything. Chrome has to make your copy good too. I know your mist flame has gotten stronger, so you can do it. Better than in the fake inheritance ceremony."

"Kufufufu." His other mist laughed, delighted with malice. "Okay, Tsunayoshi."

Chrome nodded with determination. "No problem, Boss."

"What about us, Tsuna-nii?" Fuuta asked, hopeful with Lambo and Ipin.

"You have the greatest job." The brunet relied with a serious face. "I don't want to risk you, but you're the one's who's usually here besides Reborn. But not anything can be heard. Since Fuuta and Lambo can still talk Italian, you two can eavesdrop on Iemitsu whenever he's here. While Ipin can always have a recorder with her to record everything he says and give it to Reborn. He'll never suspect the three of you whenever he's in the house because you're children. That means, he'll drop his guard and call on his phone to make orders right in front of you."

"But what if we fail?" Ipin asked, scared.

"Ipin." Fon whispered, surprised that his student feels scared to fail.

He hummed, eyes flickering to Reborn's way. "You have to keep it a secret, you know. Even from Kaasan. When you think you'll get caught, act normal. But then, it's hard to act normal. Remember those spy movies we watch? Whenever they think they'll get caught, they'll do some things. For example, Lambo will tug Ipin's hair and Fuuta will placate. Or while you're pretending to study, Lambo will suddenly shout that he doesn't get what he's reading so he'll run to Fuuta. Simple, but effective."

"We can do that?" Lambo asked.

"You're always the distraction, Lambo." He said with a smile. "That's the lightning rod of the family. Just remember that you'll protect Soma-nii if you do it right."

The children looked at each other before nodding to him. "For Soma-nii!"

The people in the dining room looked at the brunet in a new light. Reborn smirked, obscuring his eyes with the shadow of his fedora.

He cleared his throat. "Dino-nii will be our look-out in the business world. Since he transports goods, it won't be long until the possible associate will make a name."

"What about us?" Skull asked from the Arcobaleno's side.

"We're the power play." Reborn leaned back. "When confrontation happens, the Arcobaleno will be the ones to back up Tsuna in making the Vongola and Iemitsu stand down. We may not be the Arcobaleno anymore, but we're still the most powerful individuals."

"Ah. They still fear us." Colonnello puffed in pride.

"We still need Lal to look out though. If possible, intercept every possible mission to search for Tsuna." Reborn added.

"Ah. Can you give Byakuran a heads up for me, Aria-san?"  Tsuna asked, smirking to Reborn who quirked an eyebrow. "Giglio Nero and Millefiore were feared in the future since they obliterated Vongola without raising all ten of their fingers. Well, before the past came to the future. If we can threaten Vongola that if they don't stop trying to do the things they want to do, the future-not-to-be will come true plus all allies here at the force. Vongola and CEDEF, even add their allies, won't stand a chance. I mean, I know you're loyal to Vongola, but don't take it as an offence, Xanxus. Just a harmless threat will probably keep them from my back. Byakuran is part of our family now whether you like it or not."

Silence.

"Wao." Hibari breathed.

"Voi. Seriously, I didn't know you had it in you, trash." Squalo said, surprised.

"This is vicious of you, Sawada." Adelheid remarked.

"I kind of understand Tsunayoshi." Fon stated. "Iemitsu is trying to dictate his life. Let's not forget that Iemitsu is also the one who pushed Tsunayoshi to become a mafioso when the child was living his life as a civilian. It will make sense that he'll make every assault to free himself from being held down."

"No. I won't be satisfied of mere cornering him, Fon." Tsuna said as he crossed his arms, feeling his headphones with his cheeks. "He almost took you all away from me. The people I took courage to be connected with by saying I stay away. Now, he wants me to stay here in Namimori, talking big like he has the right to be my father after I did what he said. So, no. I won't be satisfied. I won't be contented of just rendering him surprised with this alliance, and make him speechless that we know what he'll do to me. I want to strip him off the power of CEDEF boss, his contacts and his possible ways of dragging me around like I'm his toy."

No one managed to say a word to his declaration.

"You heard him, Lal." Reborn said amidst the silence. "What can you say? You know Iemitsu more than we do."

"If I knew him better, I would've suspected that he was hiding Ieyasu." Lal growled. "But I agree with you, Tsunayoshi. Iemitsu's reign is enough. He has to be a husband for Nana."

"I won't be asking this to you, everyone." Tsuna uttered, sighing. "I wanted to move alone, but I know I won't be able to do everything. Family is family. Other than that, I have someone to protect."

"Your storm." Dino stated.

"Yeah." He confirmed, reminding himself that he has to tell everything to Soma. "He's expecting me to be home by the day after tomorrow. I haven't told him that my phone was confiscated. He'll be worried, and he has a competition to think off. If possible, I don't want him to think anything else other than the competition he needs to face."

"Damn. If Iemitsu isn't an idiot, you should've been thinking of what kind of dish you're making by now." Skull grumbled in annoyance.

Tsuna chuckled mirthlessly. "I want to compete, Skull. To fight for something I achieved with my skills only, I want it so badly. But under these circumstances, we both know I can't. I don't want my hiding place to be compromised. Right now, there's only you, Reborn and Kaasan who know where I was and will be. And I want it to stay that way as long as I can."

"I expect the ring is in your possession by the time we see each other by then, brat." Xanxus growled. "And expect our report if something happens."

The brunet breathed with a smile. "Yes. Thank you, Xanxus."

The Varia cut their line.

"From trash to brat; improving." Verde hummed, surely impressed with the tone of his voice. "How's the headphones, Tsunayoshi? Working well, I assume."

"Yes. Thank you for the repair." He expressed, thinking of many ways of how he can ship off a meal to Irie and Spanner. "Don't forget to be here the day after tomorrow. Kaasan and I will cook for lunch."

"How will you get away then?" Mukuro asked, eyebrow raised. "With that many people, you can get away. But they'll search for your presence."

"At night." Tsuna responded reassuringly. "Maybe past seven. Ah. I have a favor to ask you later, Chrome."

"Sure boss." The lady mist replied with a smile, happy that her sky will trust her of something.

"We'll be there, Tsuna. Do you want us to bring some ingredients?" Enma asked. "It will take a whole day here since we're just checking Simon. We'll probably be back tomorrow afternoon; latest."

"Yeah, Tsuna." Dino seconded. "If you need anything for the lunch, tell me. I'll provide."

"I'll ask Kaasan. I'll message it to you." He mentally made a note on that. "So, see you?" He bid.

"Yeah." The two replied simultaneously.

All lines were cut. Tsuna patted Leon's head when the latter went back to his original form, before taking him to perch on his hair. Hibari nodded at him before the three disappeared. He looked at his usual companions and smiled.

"Who wants snacks?"

"Reborn!"

The aforementioned man blinked in start and looked upstairs to see Tsuna stopping half way down the stairs. The teen is looking at him with his eyes in wide saucers, as if he saw something so surprising. He was probably from the bathroom since he wasn't wearing any shirt and just his jeans with his hair a little wet. The hitman inspected his student's body. Still lean but muscled. There's forming packs on the kid's stomach, probably with all the sit ups he has been doing. The arms must have hardened with his legs. Reborn won't deny that he feels proud for his student to achieve such state when he was struggling to do anything a year ago.

The most noticeable feature on him is his eyes now. The tutor blinked as he observed those eyes. He remembered them brown last night. He didn't see anything different this early morning since Tsuna was busy cooking breakfast for Ieyasu, Bianchi and the kids, and fixing salad for him while talking with Soma (Tsuna stopped feeding Iemitsu). Right now that he can see it, Tsuna is sporting new eye color instead of his old ones. Instead of brown, it's a mixture of orange and brown.

"Tawny." Reborn snapped his fingers when he got the right term.

"I know. I've never seen my face in the mirror for months and suddenly I see my eyes like this!" Tsuna said in panic.

He rose his brows as he stood up and carried his plate to the sink. "You never saw yourself in the mirror?"

"Never."

"You didn't know your hair is longer then?" He asked as he walked back and exited the dining room. He saw him sitting on the steps, forlorn.

"I knew it was longer. Soma points it out. But I didn't know it sticks everywhere that much." The kid moaned, ruffling his hair more. "I look stupid."

Reborn rolled his eyes, something he has been doing since his student came. Much to his amazement, he knew he got it from him. "You don't look stupid. You are stupid. Go back to the bathroom. I'll cut your hair."

"Really?" The brunet asked hopefully, standing up.

"Yes."

He followed the brunet upstairs. Tsuna was already setting up the stool before sitting on it when he got to the bathroom. Leon went down to his hand and became a cloth. He draped it around Tsuna before rummaging the cupboard for a pair of scissors and a comb. He found a black one. When he went back to his student, Tsuna is humming Lambo's song, tapping his index finger on his thigh.

He went around Tsuna and started to comb the brown hair. Huh. The brunet's hair faintly smells orange. Pretty soft too. He suddenly misses sitting on top of his student's hair.

"Your hair smells orange." He remarked.

"I packed the shampoo that Soma gave me. It was nice that it has a faint smell. Overpowering smell can outdo the aroma of food, according to Shinomiya-sempai. He's a French chef by the way."

Reborn blinked in remembrance as he started to cut the brunet's hair. "The owner of Shino's?"

"You know? What about Ristorante F? Mizuhara-sempai has been inviting me to work for her."

"Passable. Four stars." He answered, remembering a green head Japanese lass who he complimented for her delicious Italian dish. He combed another batch and started to cut them.

Tsuna wrinkled his nose. "Have you ever rated a food in full ten?"

"Nope. There was a seven and a half though. A wandering man. But he was trying to find himself that time because he lost his passion." He replied as he cut another strand. He was contemplating of cutting the child's hair shorter.

The brunet yawned, making him pause a little. "Does he have this maroon hair and yellow eyes? That's Dad."

Reborn hummed as he continued.

"You're really good at this." The teen said, blinking his sleepiness away. "No wonder you want me to become a Jack of all trades and master of all."

"Of course. I am the greatest, and I don't fail."

The brunet chuckled softly. "Thanks for giving making them upgrade my headphones, Reborn. And staying with me. Also letting me sleep in my room with you even if I get the futon. Thanks for telling me Kaasan wasn't okay. And joining me on my paranoia over Iemitsu. Thanks for eating every food I make and telling me what's wrong with them. Also, for cutting my hair." Then his eyes closed, unable to keep the drowsiness away.

"You're blabbering. And don't sleep." He chided as he combed another batch of hair.

"You, cutting my hair, lull me to sleep. You're lulling me to sleep." The brunet sighed. "Snip snip. Ah. What should I do to my eyes? Why did it even become like this?"

"It's because of too much use of hyper dying will mode." He replied.

"But I'm not always on dying will." Tsuna murmured then he crooned. "I mean my intuition is always there. Then I'm usually calm around Soma and the others. It's like I'm in hyper dying will without flames. Do you know that since-" Another yawn. "-you shot me to enter the ultimate dying will, my intuition became ultra active and my senses became very sensitive. The only time I don't feel on guard is when you're there."

"Maybe because you want me to torture you."

"I don't know. It just feels nice being with you again, Reborn. I don't feel so alert when you're there. Ah. I'm sorry for leaving you like that too. I really wanted to tell you, but you have your hands full and I don't want to worry you of what I'm planning to do. I thought you were going to start teaching Ieyasu so I slipped away. But when Kaasan said that you'll get angry if I don't get a good night sleep, I thought that I should probably tell you that I'm okay? I know you don't worry, but I don't want you to be angry because I suddenly disappeared without telling you."

"I will shoot you if you do it again." He threatened, although his heart is fluttering at the apology and concern. Those three days were torture for him.

"I know. Don't get me wrong, but I think I also missed you riding on my head or just being there, calling me Dame-Tsuna when I'm doing nothing. I mean I'm not really talkative about anyone, but I can't help quoting your words to Soma. I think it's the reason why he wants to meet you because I talk about you a lot. Even Isshiki-sempai wants to meet you, and our dormmates."

He tugged a handful of the brown hair, eliciting a small cry of pain. It wasn't irritation. Just an urge. "Don't go spreading my name, Dame-Tsuna."

"It wasn't intentional." Tsuna pouted while drawling his words, still eyes closed. "Soma will remind me of something, then I'll associate it with you. It will make them curious of who you are then they'll all go laughing and wants to meet you."

"I'm a hitman." He reminded as he let go and started to do his job again.

"Yeah." Tsuna drawled. "Anyway, I think I should tell them that I have... Contacts for my eyes? Because they became blurry? Soma will really ask though... He's pretty observant... You should really meet him..."

"You're going to sleep?" He queried, halting from cutting the brunet's hair.

"You're lulling me to... Sleep. Just a... Nap." Then his student's breathing slowly became even. "Reborn..."

"Impossible." He muttered as he continued.

However, what Tsuna said was true. Ever since the brunet came back, he goes to sleep without any struggle whenever the hitman is there. As long as he's there. Tsuna will wait for him to get to bed before closing his eyes. As long as their flames touch, it's as if the kid could breathe properly. With all honesty, Reborn feels happy that he can work with Tsuna. Even if he can't train the brunet, he can still tell him advices and thoughts. Sometimes, Tsuna doesn't even think twice about it and carries out what he thinks like it's the best course of action they could do. He felt honored to have the child's utmost trust even if he's the most dangerous man that lived in the mafia. Heck, not even Dino did that to him.

Yes. He might be disappointed that he didn't see his student grow. However, the child assured him that he had contributed a lot in his growth. That he's the one who pushed him to be stronger when he has no one to hold on.

Damn. The potential he saw a year ago grew to become one powerful Tsunayoshi Sawada.

He can't help smirking as he remembered Iemitsu's pale face, when Tsuna told Bianchi that he can be her sky. No one ever thought that his student will brazenly offer a place for an element. Heck. He even thought that Iemitsu will pee his pants in panic when the brunet finished explaining the scientific function of a single sky. Tsuna was willing to take all elements he can get and within his reach without thinking much of it.

And that made Iemitsu come to an ultimate decision of grounding the teen within Namimori's premises. It was no brainer that the CEDEF boss also felt the strong storm around Tsuna's sky flames, albeit dormant. But that doesn't mean Tsuna will follow him. His student is dead set on getting away from him. To the point that he wants to strip off every power the man has in his grasps.

If Iemitsu tried to strip off Tsuna's family from the latter, Tsuna is stripping Iemitsu his pride as a leader. An eye for an eye, a tooth for a tooth. Or probably an adult lion versus a young lion. Reborn wonders who will win when a confrontation happens.

After cutting the last batch, returning the brunet's old hairstyle, he stashed the scissor and comb away before removing Leon from the brunet. He let his partner shake off the hair before turning back to his animal form and crawl up to him until to the brim of his fedora. He suddenly remembered how amazed Soma was when he saw Leon. Of course, Leon is that awesome. He took the nearest broom and started to sweep the hair to the side. He'll let Tsuna clean them up later.

It took twenty minutes for the brunet to wake up. Reborn was lounging at the closed toilet seat by then, thinking of things. He instructed Tsuna to clean his hair off the bathroom before going out to leave his student to change. But before he turned for the stairs, he received another thank you that made him smile when he had turned his back from his student.

It feels nice to be thanked for doing small things.

Chapter Text

Chapter Thirty-Four

"Mama!"

Tsuna smiled when the kids and Bianchi surrounded Nana with cheer of seeing her well and cheerful. Nana was equally happy, praising the kids how neat they look since they really wanted to welcome her in the house with neatness. They even helped cleaning everything and stirred away from the backyard where the party will be held.

When Nana saw him standing by the porch. She beckoned him to come closer. He did. They hugged each other and Tsuna sighed in relief because he knew this will be one of those last hugs he will have this day before he goes. He ushered them in, leaving Iemitsu, Reborn and Dino with Romario alone.

They went for the kitchen. Tsuna let the kids chatter about things from the table as he and Nana started to prepare things. Since they already established what his mother wanted to cook, the brunet's work is to assist.

"Hello." He looked up to see Haru, Kyoko and Hana Kurokawa by the door of the kitchen. "Hi, Tsuna-kun!" Kyoko greeted.

"Tsuna-san!" Haru called out while Kurokawa rose a brow at him.

He dipped his head a little, hands still on work. "Hello."

"Tsu-kun, are they ready?" Nana asked before turning to the girls with a smile. "Oh. Come in! Come in! Tsu-kun is just helping me cook."

"Here, Kaasan. I'll start on the meat." He said in a soft voice, carefully sliding the plate of ingredients he chopped before going for the meat he was tasked to do.

"Thank you, Tsu-kun. Come help me girls." Nana invited.

Tsuna made himself invisible when the girls started to help around the kitchen. He does the small works, helping here and there, reaching for those things they couldn't reach and asking Nana what she needs more. The girls were talking about school and stuffs he can't really relate.

Not that Tootsuki doesn't teach Math, History and gym classes, though he's grateful that the academy doesn't do homework. But he prefers his new school now. He doesn't have anyone breathing on his neck, waiting for him to make a mistake to call him 'Dame-Tsuna'.

"What about you, Tsuna-kun? How's your school?" Kyoko asked, making him pause from mixing the sauce Nana told him to cook.

"It's nice. We don't do homeworks." He answered as he starts to stir again. "Kaasan, this is done."

"Okay, stir more so it won't stick to the pot." His mother instructed.

"What about your teachers?" Haru questioned whilst putting some biscuits on the dessert they were preparing. "Are they strict?"

Tsuna blinked, trying to remember things. "They are. Some give hard exams. Some only grade us by A or E. They also fail a lot of students and expel them when they're not satisfied with their works."

"Really? That's harsh!" Haru gasped.

He smiled wryly as he stopped stirring. "It can't be helped. The profession isn't a joke for them."

"What kind of school is it?" Kurokawa queried.

"A cooking school." He replied as he took the knife he used awhile ago and cleaned it under the water. "That was everything, Kaasan."

Nana looked back to him with a proud beam. "You are really good in the kitchen, Tsu-kun."

He blushed as he took a clean cloth and started to wipe his knife. "I had a lot of practice with Soma, Kaasan. He also needs help here and there."

"Even so," Kurokawa nodded at their almost finished products. "it will take hours for Sawada-san to do this if you weren't here or even if we help. Good job."

He nodded as he took his knife case off the side and put it on the counter. "No problem."

"Wow." Kyoko and Haru gawked as he opened his case where a lot of knives were tucked in.

"That's a lot of knives, Tsuna-san." Haru said in awe. "Do you use all of them?"

"Some." He answered, rather at ease with the fact that the girls didn't mind that he knows how to cook. "I usually use three." He put his knife away, smiling a little when he saw his name on the side written with Soma's script. Shaking his head in fondness, he closed his case and took it off the counter. "I'm going upstairs a little."

"Sure." Nana nodded as she took some plates. "Come down immediately, okay? You need to eat."

"It's not like I'm thin, Kaasan." Tsuna sighed as he slipped away. "He'll stuff me every food he'll make if I am."

Nana giggled, while the girls looked at each other in question. "Kidding."

He didn't really have to go to his room. Mukuro was beside him when he went out of dining room and took his case. His mist gave a parting laugh before disappearing with his knives, smiling mischievously. He shook his head fondly before joining the kids in the living room. They played around, playing tag while waiting for Nana's call.

He was carried Lambo on his shoulder, tickling the child's sides as they went for the backyard. Everyone was there with the food. Nana beckoned them to come closer. He put Lambo down and let the kid ran around, before he let Dino take him to the food. He took small amounts of everything as instructed by Nana and sat beside Reborn who has the Vongola meter up again.

"What are we ranking again?" Tsuna asked as he took a forkful of spaghetti.

"Best get-well gift for Mama." Reborn answered while they watch Takeshi and Gokudera do an act or something. "Did you get any?"

He shrugged. "Wasn't informed."

"Mama!" Lambo cheered as he ran to Nana with a paper in hand. "I made this with Baka-Tsuna yesterday! It's a gift for you from me!"

Nana inspected the picture with keen eyes. "Ara. There is me, Lambo-kun, Fuuta-kun, Ipin-chan, Bianchi-san, Reborn-kun, Tsu-kun, and Ie-kun."

"Eh?" Iemitsu voiced as he looked over. "Where am I then?"

Tsuna watched with amusement as Lambo tilted his head to the left with an innocent air around him. "You're not always here so you're not family."

"That's eighty." Tsuna pointed out.

"Plus five for the innocent act." Reborn nodded as Leon put Lambo's picture to 'eighty-five'.

Dino scooted closer to Enma who was sweatdropping. "Am I the only one who's getting goosebumps when Tsuna and Reborn agree on something?"

Colonnello, who heard his fellow blond, patted his shoulder with a small grimace. It was unheard for them of people agreeing with Reborn's craziness. "You're not the only one."

"Oi!" The three went attentive on Reborn's call. "You're next! Go give Mama some gifts before I shoot you three!"

"Y-Yes!" Dino and Enma saluted before running off in panic, only to trip.

Tsuna winced, knowing well how painful the fall. "You didn't have to do that."

"Not my fault." The hitman shrugged with a smirk.

So far, the one with the highest scores were the kids. Lambo is on first, then Fuuta and Ipin are tied. Under the two kids was Ieyasu who presented Nana a bunch of flowers with a red face. Tsuna could relate since he wasn't that close to their mother before he left. They're just patching up everything before he leaves again. Iemitsu was the lowest after he attempted to kiss Nana in front of everyone. Plausible but not in front of the kids. (But really, it was Reborn's decision to put Iemitsu below.)

Dino gave new pots and pans. Colonnello gave a show with his animal partner, Falco. Lal made Nana laugh by reenacting the usual things that happens in CEDEF office with Iemitsu as her target (No. Lal was just so full of her boss's stupidity that she couldn't resist beating him.). Nana did save him and made her husband stay by her side. Skull made a small stunt, while Viper and Verde made a small presentation with the combination of illusion and technology. Fon presented Nana some spices while Aria put something in her hand. The Simon gave a picture album. No one knows what it contains, but Reborn put them just below Ieyasu.

Hibari gave her his personal number for emergency since it took Kusakabe a minute to find him and tell him that the Sawada matriarch had collapsed. Mukuro gave Nana a small ice sculpted rose with Chrome making a clear ice container that held the rose in place. Tsuna knew that the rose is as good as a sensor for the two if anything happens in the house. The girls were exempted since they baked cake for her.

"What about Tsuna and Reborn?" Iemitsu asked, gesturing to the two.

He raised his hands before taking his cup of juice. "No presents, Kaasan. I wasn't informed."

All people around them gaped. Thinking how different Tsuna was from the past. Usually, the brunet will panic and starts to make plans for the gift.

"I'm the mediator." Reborn simply replied.

"Eh? Tsu-kun and Reborn-kun gave me the best gift." Nana voiced causing the aforementioned duo to look at each other. "Reborn-kun called Tsu-kun when I was rushed to the hospital. Then Tsu-kun came home to see me. That's a good gift already."

The brunet scrunched his face up in thought before shrugging. "I'll accept that."

"You're doing so because you don't have any presents." Reborn jabbed before putting their names just above Lambo. "This is my first time seeing the stupid cow's name in a high score."

"That's because Lambo-sama is great!" Lambo shouted before laughing obnoxiously.

"Hahaha. This is our first time doing this for the past months. I missed this." Takeshi laughed.

"That's right!" Nana seconded. "So, let's enjoy this to the fullest!"

Tsuna didn't ask Reborn what they mean about that. He knew a lot of things were stopped when Iemitsu and Ieyasu came. As the party came down to its end, the Arcobaleno paid their ‘thanks’ to Nana before saying their goodbyes to him. Skull's 'see you around' with a wink was really comical that it made him laugh. Colonnello was grinning and told him to ready himself cause he's going to be hired, that got shot down by Reborn; cause yeah, Tsuna won't deny it that he's the hitman's chef.

He helped the girls transport all dishes to the kitchen before helping the others to put the streamers down and fold the tables. Ryohei talked his ears out about a lot of things as they settled. The others couldn't come since they're awkward around him. It was good since he doesn't want to have any last minute ties in Namimori, right before he leaves.

It was nearing six-thirty when Nana called him in from the kitchen. Tsuna stood beside his mother and took a clean cloth to help her dry the plates. There was a comfortable silence between them; something he remembered that occur some years ago.

"Take care of yourself, hm?" Nana whispered. "Take care of Soma-kun too as he takes care of you."

"Yes, Kaasan." He mumbled as he took a plate and put it on the racks. "Take care of yourself too."

"I will. Don't forget to message me every once in a while. I'll miss my baby." The lady cooed, causing him to blush.

"Kaasan." He whined. "I'm not a baby anymore."

"You're my baby." Nana argued.

Tsuna only sighed and was about to negate the statement that is somewhere between the lines of 'he's a teen' when he caught a glimpse of Ieyasu. "Naa, Kaasan. How's your relationship with Ieyasu? Are you having a hard time connecting with him?"

"Hm... When you went away, I think he felt responsible. You suddenly disappeared so he thought it was his fault. To make amends, he tried to make connection with me, but I think he's struggling since he doesn't know how to interact with me." The mother sighed. "I'm getting worried."

Tsuna pursed his lips, remembering one of the reasons why he went away. "Do you think he can change?"

"I know what you mean, Tsu-kun." Nana sighed as she continued working while the brunet stared at her. "I heard him talking with Iemitsu. I heard him asking if making you a scapegoat was the cause why you ran away. Iemitsu said it wasn't. He said you ran away because you were jealous and you don't want to see us anymore. That you're rebelling and you're a coward."

His intuition clicked here and there. When realization hit him, he paled. "D-Don't tell me..."

Nana giggled nervously. "Yes. I collapsed after I heard that. I was really disappointed and angry about what he said. I don't know what he thinks you're jealous about, or angry and rebelling for, but it wasn't nice to call you that. He doesn't know what kind of hardship you put up for when you were being bullied. You were braver than the kids cause you never fight back."

"Is that the reason why you want me to go back to Soma?"

"Because you're happier where you went. Your eyes are brighter now, not when you were here. They were really dull, Tsu-kun. So, I know you're happier where you are. And I don't really mind that you're away, as long as you come back occasionally and keep tabs on your situation."

Tsuna blinked his eyes to remove the urge to cry before he abandoned his work and hugged Nana. The matriarch smiled and hugged him back. They knew it will be the last hug they will share (for now).

"Have you said a thing to the little ones?" Nana asked on his shoulder.

"Yes. When you were finishing up. They'll take care of you too, Kaasan." Tsuna answered.

"I know they will. Lambo-kun is really into protecting me."

"I know." He answered, tightening his hug. "I know, Kaasan."

"I'll miss you too." They parted. Nana cupped his cheeks and smiled encouragingly. "Go meet up with Reborn-kun. We'll distract them for a few minutes so you can have a head start."

Tsuna looked out the yard where Iemitsu and the others were, before nodding. "Alright."

He let his mother give him a kiss on the forehead before he moved away. With a last smile and a wave to her, he went out of the kitchen and dining area. The kids were by the foyer, waiting for him with his mittens, pills, headphones and contacts. He put his shoes on first before taking the pills and mitts, and slipped them on his back-pocket. The three accompanied him out with a soft 'click' of the door. He wore his contacts and slipped on his headphones. Like with Nana, he gave a last smile and pats to the three's heads before going over the gates.

The run for the mouth of Namimori town wasn't that easy. He has to take a lot of routes to get there. He was already at Nami-high when he saw Chrome. She was holding her trident in one hand while the other is fisted by her chest. He stopped running and handed out his hand. The girl smiled softly and put her fist over his. When she opened it, four rings dropped on his palm.

Tsuna stared at the sealed rings of sky and storm, and the ring forms of Natsu and Uri. He looked up to Chrome and bowed a little.

"Thank you. You did a great job not getting detected." He praised.

"No problem, Boss. Keep in touch." Chrome said as she became hazy.

Tsuna nodded. "I will."

As Chrome disappears, he continued his run. He was nearing the shopping district when his intuition nudged him to look at his right. Jumping from establishment to establishment, Hibari's jacket fluttered in the air as the prefect matched his speed. The brunet let his sky flames pulse, something he learned with Reborn yesterday. To his delight, his cloud answered back with a pulse. He can't help the grin from forming on his lips.

He was exiting the shopping district when Takeshi, Gokudera, and Ieyasu came running from the alleyway, intercepting him. He skidded to a stop and looked at them with calculation. It seems like they didn't include Ryohei since they don't want to confuse the boxer after reconciling with him.

"Where are you going, Tsuna?" Takeshi asked, worried and uncertain. "Iemitsu-san is searching for you."

"I'm going out." He answered, keeping his hands to the sides. Negotiation first before attacking. "Let me through."

"You can't. You're grounded within the premises of Namimori." Gokudera stated, lighting up his cigarette.

Tsuna tilted his head. Damn. He hadn't bid Soma a good luck, except this morning. "He's at the mouth of Namimori, isn't he?"

"Yes." Ieyasu responded, eyes shying away from him. "He swore he'll make you stay in here."

He sighed. "I don't really know why he's trying so hard to be a father to me now. He's been gone for ages without giving me attention as his son."

The three's stances went alert when he reached out and took his mittens and pills. He wore his gloves and held the pills' container in his right.

"Stand down, Tsuna." Ieyasu ordered, eyeing his hands.

He pursed his lips. "Just let me through, Ieyasu. We don't have to do this."

"If you don't go, we won't."

Tsuna sighed as he popped a pill on his hand and put it on his mouth. The moment he swallowed it, the rings on his other hand pulsed just as Takeshi's ring under the shirt lit blue. With orange flame lit on his forehead, mittens forming to familiar steel gloves and eyes going orange, he stared at them.

Ieyasu's mouth was agape, as well as Takeshi and Gokudera, while they stared at the swordsman's ring. Tsuna took advantage of that and ran towards them. He somersaulted over their heads. The three looked back to him, still flabbergasted.

"The rings only answer to my call." He said as he stood up and angled his body a little to them. He raised his left hand, where the four rings he took from Chrome were situated between his fingers. "It's in the will. Remember, Vongola is under my decision."

"To prosper or to perish." Gokudera muttered, eyes widening. This caused Ieyasu to look at the storm.

He closed his hand before flicking one of the rings to his ex-storm. The silveret caught it. "Uri is yours, Gokudera-san. Take care of Ieyasu. Takeshi and you will be good left- and right-hand men for him."

"What are you going to do with the storm and sky rings?" Ieyasu questioned, taking a step forward.

"Natsu is my animal partner. The sky ring is my prize when I defeated Xanxus and kept everyone safe in our ring battle. I will not hand you the thing I worked hard to gain, Ieyasu. If you want a sky ring, go ask Talbot-jii-sama to make you one with the blessings of Primo."

"We can't do that! The rings were destroyed by the Simons!" His brother yelled, panicking.

Tsuna shrugged. "Oh well. Ask your father then; he'll know what to do. He's the one who always has a solution for everything, remember?"

"The storm ring, Tsuna." Takeshi observed.

"I'm giving it to my rightful storm." He replied with an apologetic smile to Gokudera, who was gritting his teeth. "It's the only thing I'm taking now since he's the only one I have found yet. Keep that ring safe, Takeshi. I might steal it someday."

His ex-rain tightly grasped his rain ring that turned to its sealed form again.

"Thank you for being my guardians for the past year. The experience was great. We grew stronger and found our resolves. But I think this is as far as we could go. As long as he's above us, we have to be enemies." He surveyed them, inspecting their expressions. "I hope, when I come back again, we can have a good closure. Unlike this one. So, for now, see you around."

"Was it that easy?" He stilled at Gokudera's question. The silveret's brows were almost knitting, lips turned down. But Tsuna knows. He can see how those eyes were red. "To leave us like we don't matter to you after Iemitsu-san told you to let us go?"

"Hayato-"

"No!" Hayato adamantly yelled. "I want to know. I want to know why didn't you fight for us, Tenth. I want to know why you run away, leaving us behind for seven months, and come back like nothing happened. We waited for you. We thought you will fight for us. That you have a plan. But was it that easy, Tenth?"

Tsuna glanced skyward, rolling his lips inward as he thought of what happened in those past months he hasn't ran away. Huh... This will probably the last time he'll be called like that. To be called 'Tenth'.

"Was it easy to call me ‘Tsuna-sama’ and call Ieyasu 'Tenth', Hayato?" He asked back. He stared as his once most loyal friend tensed up and surprised with the sudden call to his first name. "Your question and mine were the same, right? Yeah. It wasn't easy. It was never easy, Hayato—It was never easy to step back so you could spend time with my twin. It wasn't easy to see you smile with him; laugh with him. If I could be selfish that time, I could've ripped you three apart from him. I could've defied him, and probably fought against him. But what could a mere teenager do against his own father? Against the fact that you weren't mine in the first place? That I don't need to be in the picture because I shouldn't be in it in the first place?" He glanced at Takeshi who looked away. "It was never ever easy to let you go. To accept that feeling of ripping half-bond from my own sky flames. Feeling it happen was like parts of my soul were being torn and being pulled off. It was painful that I’m so glad you didn’t experience it on your end.

“I asked myself a hundred—thousand times of why I didn't fight for us; for the family that was mine and forged to be mine with Reborn's help and the hardships we encountered throughout the past year. But how could I… If I could see I'm the only one who was going to fight for us? How could I, when the elements I thought I own were already taken away? I don't want to blame you as well, but did you ever considered of fighting for me too? To go against Iemitsu when they announced that Ieyasu was supposed to be your sky? Reborn has always drilled it to us: Every fight is not our individual fights alone; It is our fight. So, if I did fight, would you have fought too, at that time? Cause I really think you wouldn’t. I really think you accepted your new sky, and so I let you go.

"Hayato, Takeshi," He gulped. For one last time... "we fell out because we couldn't protect our own bonds. Yeah, we could still be friends. But in this world, you aren't meant to be my elements as I am not meant to be your sky." He darted his eyes to Ieyasu who couldn't say anything with the sudden confrontation. "Ieyasu, I can't say anything like protect my past guardians or don't be like me who could not fight against something so petty. I... I have no such rights. I let go of those rights months ago. But I hope- I really hope that you become their home that I couldn't be. Takeshi and Hayato are the greatest rain and storm you'll ever have. They are the greatest friends you'll have."

Ieyasu stared at him. "Is that how it feels with Soma?"

"Yes." He answered with a smile, unable to stop himself. It caused astonishment to the three. "My home is with him right now, and I am going home." He stepped back and nodded at them. "I want to apologize, but maybe, this is it. Take care, everyone."

He eyed them for one last time, catching those expressions that hold a lot of meanings before he turned around to the direction he wanted to go. He never thought they'll do it there. To be asked. He may not know how painful it was to them those days he stirred away and the months he ran away, but they don't know how crushing it was as well for him. But right now, he needs to go. He needs to be where he wants and needs to be.

Stuffing the rings on his secured pocket, he ran and jumped as his flames went out of his hands to become boosters. He flew to the sky and went to the mouth of Namimori. When he saw the CEDEF cars and some men in black being instructed by Iemitsu, he went straight ahead. He was passing them when he heard shouts. His intuition tingled for him to dodge, and he did. He hovered and glared at the mafiosi who tried to shot him down.

His eyes went to Iemitsu who was sporting his own hyper dying will. Tsuna went down a little, just enough height so no one can latch on him.

"Get down from there, Tsuna." Iemitsu ordered between gritted teeth.

"Sorry." He apologized with a sarcastic smile. "I'm in a hurry to get away from you."

"I thought I told you that you're grounded." The blond countered.

"I don't remember saying I agree being grounded." Then he tilted his head. "Who are you to boss me around like you're my father?"

"W-What?!"

"If I remember right from Kaasan's words, my biological father became a star. That means he's dead, long before I became a teenager." He gazed at Iemitsu coolly. "And the one I acknowledge as my father now is a cook who travels the globe to make dishes for different people; which concludes that you can't tell me what to do like you're my father, Iemitsu."

"This is outrageous, Tsuna! You're taking this too far!" Iemitsu yelled in anger and embarrassment.

"I know." He smirked at the man's shocked expression. "This is the prize of protecting the famiglia under the disguise of protecting your family only to fail miserably; the decision of sealing me away so I won't hinder Ieyasu's path to become the heir; forcing me to become a mafioso just to be my brother's scapegoat, and sending Reborn to me as my tutor in the same process. This is the consequence you have to pay, Iemitsu. Let's just say I gave up on believing you'll finally change when you wanted to strip everything from me. I mean, you can make everyone your puppet, but not me who's gifted with my intuition. Remember, I was going to be Neo Vongola Primo before you introduced Ieyasu to the world."

The CEDEF boss paled. "What are you talking about?"

"I realized what you've been trying to do after a lot of thinking." He shrugged before tipping his head a little. "Regardless, this is where we part,"

"You can't-"

"Best regards till the time we meet again, Iemitsu." Now he knows why Soma said those words back in the welcome ceremony; they were satisfying to hear. Then he flew away with the blond's outraged cries in a faraway distance.

He flew in a speed that he hadn't done before. He soared in the sky like he has wings instead of boosters. Feeling the air because he is now free of everything he considered as burdens. He smiled as he gazed at the full moon and the stars surrounding it. He felt so free and so in control of his life.

He was grinning when he touched down to the rendezvous point of his and Reborn's, which was two towns before he reaches Tootsuki. The hitman was leaning on a tree, covering his eyes with the brim of his fedora. He eyed his things which was at the side of his tutor's feet. Reborn took his duffel bag from the house the very morning. He was still on his bed at that time, conversing with Soma who was really excited about the competition that night. His knife case, that was taken by Mukuro after they cooked, was beside his bag. It was all part of the plan. Mukuro won't be pasted accountable since no one knew he was helping Tsuna run away. Reborn won't be questioned because he has his own idiosyncrasies.

He made a peace sign to the hitman when Reborn flicked his hat up and looked at him with his onyx eyes. The tutor stared at him before smirking.

"The rings?" Reborn asked.

Tsuna dipped his hand in his pocket and pulled the three unsealed rings to show them. "Here."

The hitman threw a chain necklace to him. "Still unsealed then. Wear Natsu and the sky ring."

He chuckled as he slipped the storm to the necklace before clipping the ends around his neck. "Experimenting?"

"I'm certain that it will be unsealed, Dame-Tsuna. I'm never wrong." His tutor harrumphed.

The brunet hummed as he put the rings on his middle finger and forefinger. "I know. Since when did I doubted you after all the things we've been through?"

"You're stepping on a thin line here, Tsuna." Reborn warned him, making him confused.

"Ha?" He blurted before he panicked at the hitman's expressionless face. "Wait, Reborn! Are you angry?! What did I do now?!"

The hitman sighed, making him worry.

"Reborn?" He called.

"Just lit up the ring, Tsuna. I'll tell you after."

Narrowing his tawny eyes as his intuition purred, he stared at the sky ring's blue gem. Closing his eyes, he breathed in and let it out slowly. He envisioned his resolve. To protect Soma and his remaining family. He felt the familiar thrum in his veins. And when he opened his eyes, he smiled as his orange flames engulf the ring slowly and turned it to its version Vongola X before it went to the penalty form with Natsu as the main element.

He looked up to tell his tutor that he still has it, only for his eyes to widened when he saw another unsealed ring on Reborn's thumb and forefinger. The Vongola sun ring.

"I don't really know." Reborn stated as onyx eyes slid to him. "Will you accept me as your sun guardian, Tsuna?"

Chapter Text

Chapter Thirty-Five

Tsuna's jaw unhinged. "I-I..."

"It's just an offer, Tsuna." The hitman waved off, dismissive. But his intuition picked up the uncertainty.

He snapped out of reverie and raised his hands in panic. "N-No! That's not what I mean! I'm just surprised! Let me think for a moment, okay?"

"You don't have a moment."

"Then I'll make one." He insisted, causing the hitman to stare at him. "You always make time for me, so why can't I do it for you?"

Tsuna crossed his arms and started to think. There's not much to think about it. It's just that he's not agreeing. He knew how powerful Reborn is. The Arcobaleno are powerful and fearful. Heck, it was Reborn who told him why they became Arcobaleno. He even emphasized to him how stupid the brunet was for not realizing that the 'man' the latter admired and helped them a lot of times during the representative battles was the hitman himself, and not just a friend.

(But Reborn was really amazed at his student's naivety. Tsuna was really adamant of thanking the adult Reborn and was so amazed that Reborn can't help smiling at how the brunet talked about him.)

Damn. He remembered how skittish he was around Reborn that it resulted to being taught by the hitman how to cook. His tutor even forced everyone out of the house for a 'vacation' just to talk him down. He never really thought of having anyone as a sun. He has no mind of his rain element even. He wants to accept Reborn, but won't that cage Reborn down? He's not affiliated to any famiglia so far, nor allied himself except to the Arcobaleno.

"Don't you think some mafiosi will suspect that you're affiliated to Vongola if they see you wearing the ring?" Tsuna asked, frowning in worry.

"I'm not allied to Vongola. I'm going to be your element." Reborn clarified. "It's different. Vongola has declared their heir and freed you. Add this act of yours, you also stated that you don't want any relation with Vongola. In that sense, you and your chosen elements won't be stated to have any relation to that famiglia."

"But why me?" He asked again then grimaced instantly. He sounded insecure. "Why not Aria? Or wait for Yuni?"

"I don't know." The hitman sighed. "Your flame is all over mine. I don't even remember healing you, but it has a tight grip on me."

"Eh?"

"Try feeling your flames, idiot." Reborn ordered; not angry or pissed, just exasperated. "It's like meditating. I taught you that a year ago. You feel your will inside you and try differentiating it."

Tsuna scrunched his face in concentration as he complied. He dug deep to see what he can feel. He did do this with Reborn last year, but it wasn't that simple... As how his tutor say it. He had to let out his sky flames a little to know how it goes. And it's difficult to reign over his flames whenever he does that because he attracts things.

Within seconds to a minute of focus, he got it.

He blinked when he felt his flames mixed with a lot of different elements. His intuition nudged him deeper. He pursed his lips and let his brows furrow as he identifies the flames on his core. Well, there's a smoldering storm that's mingling with his sky in the same wavelength. Destructive, cheeky and cool as Soma. There's an offensive cloud that looks so protective on his flame. Possessive, aloof yet just within reach like Hibari. Then there are two types of mists circling around him: one is deceptive while the other is almost intangible. Mischievous, loyal and protective with timid, defensive and headstrong, so similar to Mukuro and Chrome.

And there's a sleeping sun standing beside his flame. Burning, powerful yet quiet. So quiet that it's almost not there. He eyed Reborn who's patiently waiting for his response, playing the Vongola sun ring between his fingers. Reborn is a sleeping sun, and that sleeping sun beside his flames. Ominous and dangerous. But as long as you don't wake him up, and just understand him or go with his flow, you won't be the receiving end.

For him, Reborn is his literal guardian angel. A ray of hope when things are in dumps. When he's thinking complicated things, when he thought he can't do it, when he feels uncertain. When everyone is worried and doubtful. He won't be like this if it wasn't for Reborn.

So...

"You won't be restricted?" Tsuna asked again. "You just got yourself free from being an Arcobaleno. Don't get me wrong, Reborn. It's not that I'm rejecting you. I'm just worried that you'll feel caged if I accept you as my sun." He looked down to his feet as he mumbled the rest. "I'll even be honored to have you since you're really the sun who's always with me."

"I won't be." He looked up to see his tutor blinking at him with innocence. "I'm the one taking the position."

He sighed in relief at the assurance before smiling. "Then please wear the ring when you want to. Thank you, Reborn. Really."

The hitman smirked, tipping his hat to the brunet. "Pleasure."

Tsuna laughed as he felt his flames sing in delight. He feels so light and energized. He removed his rings and the necklace. He looped the two rings too before he wore it. He approached his bag and case. He was about to say something when he remembered his phone.

"Did you get-"

"Here." Reborn said as he handed a familiar phone. "Took it from Ieyasu's room. Untouched. Verde told me that it cannot be accessed by anyone except you and the authorized people you permit, and if you aren't in the near range of the phone."

"Like that time the kids looked at the photos. So, it's basically dead to Iemitsu when they tried to open it? Nice." He took it and unlocked it. "How do you put authorized people in it?"

Reborn shrugged. "It's designed for you; how should I know?"

Tsuna tapped around the phone for a minute before he handed his phone back to the hitman. He found it in the setting, hidden on the 'about system' with 'Access' written on it. It even has some instructions on what to do. "I need your fingerprints."

"Heh." The tutor hummed before he put his left hand on the screen. "Soma will cry."

"I know." He laughed before taking the phone and started to tap again. "But I rather have it now instead of later." He smiled when the screen flashed 'authorized'. "There."

"Are you taking the train?"

Tsuna nodded. "Yes. It will take an hour and a half to reach Tootsuki."

"How can you go if the train isn't working?"

Tsuna reached for his other pocket and took out the token. "I have this."

Reborn stared at the token. "Nakiri."

"Yup. Senzaemon Nakiri-san took me under his family's protection when he figured out who I am." He smiled sheepishly. "Do you know how it works?"

"Just show it to the guard." The hitman shrugged. "They'll start up the train for you or even call for a car."

"Oh. Okay." He nodded before blinking. "Are you going to send me off?"

"You're such a dame. Come on." Reborn remarked as he started to walk.

The brunet smiled before jogging a little to fall in steps with his tutor.

"G'night! Ah wait-!"

Soma blinked. "Yeah, Dad?"

"Tsuna is going back there, right?" His Dad asked, sounding serious.

"Yes. He said so this morning." He looked skyward as he recalled their conversation. "He was pretty drowsy this morning too. He said Mama and him are going to cook for lunch and he prepared everything for that day late, so he felt sleepy. I told him he can come back tomorrow, but he insisted."

"Hmm..."

"Why? Did you call him?"

"I don't have his number."

"I can give it to you later."

"Oh sure." Saiba cheered before his voice turned a little serious again. "Naa Soma, if Tsuna tells you something, try to understand him, okay? He's been through a lot, and he's having a hard time. You won't know but he will be facing difficult times in the future, and he will need your support."

The redhead frowned. "Do I need to hide him?"

Saiba laughed. "No no. You can't hide him, Soma. Just be there for him. He'll really need it. You'll understand when he tells you everything."

"You know something about him, don't you?" He asked, having this hunch.

"I heard a lot about him when you two met, and after I came there. He's a good kid, even his mother is famed to be very nice. No wonder you call her Mama."

Soma blushed. "It became a habit."

"It's okay. I know your mother will only be your Kaasan. Take care of your brother, will ya?"

"I will." The redhead smiled when he remembered Tsuna's phrase. "It's what family do."

"Good." Another yawn that made Soma sweatdrop. "Okay. Good night."

Soma brought his hand down and stared at his phone. He shrugged and was about to slip it inside his pocket when he remembered Tsuna again. He opened it up and went for the phone icon. Good thing he has Tsuna on speed dial. Well, he never uses his phone except when his Dad is calling or calculating big numbers. But when the brunet came in, they just have to exchange numbers.

He walked towards Tadokoro and Nikumi. The two were waiting for him. He smiled at them a little when they noticed him approaching.

"Can you go on first? I have to call Tsuna. He was supposed to be here hours ago." He said as he looked at the time on his phone. It's already ten.

"Tsuna-kun is coming?" Tadokoro beamed. "That's great!"

"Sure." Nikumi nodded with a small smile. "We'll meet you two in the dorm."

"Thanks." He expressed and pressed on number two on the pad.

He put the phone by his left ear as the girls ran up ahead to catch up with their other dorm mates. He started to walk as the other side rang.

It's been eleven days since Tsuna went back to Namimori. It was lonely, even though he has a lot of people surrounding him. He's more used to the fact that Tsuna is within reach, and sometimes staying up with him in those nights he tests dishes he makes. Okay. A little bearable since Tsuna calls or he calls almost every day. But it's still different when he talks with his friend face to face from by phone. He likes it when he can see Tsuna's face doing different expressions when he talks, or when those brown eyes shine in happiness when they talk about something both of them love to do.

He met a lot of people too because of that. He met Nana Sawada or who the whole world call Mama. (Even their dorm mates call her Mama when Tsuna told them she'll love being called that with a wistful look.) The kids which were Fuuta, Ipin and Lambo. The great Bianchi who was Tsuna's 'instructor' (he will never live that down after Tsuna joked about it once in their call) in eating nasty food. The prefect Kyouya Hibari (the guy only looked at him, called him an 'omnivore' then walked out). The twins Mukuro Rokudou and Chrome Dokuro (Mukuro was really really interesting (eyes and laughing aside). Chrome was shy, but she really did her best to greet him). He even got to greet Dino and Romario again. (Enzo, the turtle, is cute.)

The Simons, especially Enma, (he will never forget how Tsuna called them red pepper (Soma) and red chilli (Enma) because of what they look when they blush) who were a pretty interesting bunch. He hadn't meet the Arcobaleno personally, but he saw Colonnello and Skull (the blond guy who was roughing up the stuntman he met), Mammon (Dude. She was floating.), a lady called Lal Mirch (with painful yet nice looking scars), and the guy who upgraded Tsuna's phone called Verde (Tsuna said Verde is green in Spanish, Romanian, Portuguese and Italian, and he also said the 'scientist' offered to upgrade his phone too). There's this guy who looks like Hibari called Fon (Tsuna said the two were related). And then Aria, who was pregnant and gave him a wave and a smile when she saw him on the phone.

Then there's Reborn. He was really curious who's Reborn, since Tsuna always talks about the guy. And that guy taught Tsuna how to cook. If the brunet doesn't know how to cook, how could they meet? He's also the chaos bringer yet incredible tutor he heard (Wait. He forgot to put handsome in it). His first impression of Reborn was really set on. So, when he met the guy, he can't help getting intimidated. Tsuna was clearly close with the guy. The brunet was even really elated to introduce them to each other.

Reborn is a guy who likes black. He has black eyes, black hat, black suit. Soma thinks he made the guy interested on him too, because Reborn even introduced him Leon. And he really really likes Leon. He likes how the guy shapeshift to anything! Heck, is that even possible?

Really. Tsuna's family is really interesting.

"Soma." A voice from the other side called out.

He perked up. "Where are you, Tsuna?"

Some rustles. "I'm arriving in a sec."

"You haven't arrived yet?" He asked, stopping from his walk and putting a hand on his waist. "I thought you said you're going early."

"The party ended at six. I helped Kaasan in drying the dishes. I said goodbye to Chrome and Hibari then Reborn sent me off."

He wrinkled his nose. "Fine."

"Incoming."

"Ha?" Soma blurted, confused.

A laugh. "In three-"

"Oi oi!"

"-two -"

"Tsuna-"

"-one."

Soma looked up to see Tsuna falling. His yellow eyes widened when the brunet landed in front of him. It caused a cloud of dust that dissipated for a few seconds. Tsuna stood up with a smile. The redhead wasn't even the one who hugged the other first. Sawada hugged him tight.

The redhead blinked, looked down at the brunet before slowly hugging him back. It took him seconds to register that- Yes, this is Tsuna. Yes, he's back. Yes, he flew! And yes, he came falling just to see him. So like any other, he hugged Tsuna tight and buried his faced on the other's shoulder. Damn. He missed his friend.

"I'm home."

"Welcome home."

They stayed like that for minutes before they parted. The two stared at each other, before they grinned at the same time and chuckled after. Soma took a step back and appraised the brunet. Nothing is out of place, except for the headphones he never saw being worn, the new black jacket, the eyes-

"Wait. What happened to your eyes?" He asked, shocked. "They're orangish brown." He pointed out, blinking his eyes.

Tsuna sheepishly smiled. "Tawny, Soma. It's the result of constant use of the mode I usually enter. At least it's not entirely orange."

"You're not going blind, right?" He asked, doubtful.

"No." The brunet laughed with a shake of his head. "I'm okay. Anyway, I'm here to fulfill my promise."

He went attentive on that. Tsuna only promised him one thing other than coming back. "It means..."

Tsuna nodded with a smile. "I talked to those people I needed permission from. Actually, even if I don't get their permission, they won't mind. But safety first."

"Okay. So..."

"Come on." Sawada invited as he started to walk. Soma immediately fell in steps with him. "You're familiar with Yakuza here in Japan, right?"

Soma nodded. "Yup. There are some who likes to visit the diner."

"What about mafia?"

"Mafia?" The redhead repeated, brows furrowing in thought. He flipped his mind to remember what the word means. "That's like an international counterpart of Yakuza, right?"

A nod. "Yes. It's situated in Italy and much bloodier in terms of works. You see, Soma, Yakuza is like Mafia. They also value family. Especially bloodlines. Even if you're the great grandson past ten generations of a mafia family's first boss, you still have a right to their throne and they'll keep you under their wing."

The redhead blinked before the side of his fist hit his palm when he got it. "Like monarchy, right? Even if you're a commoner and your father is a king who has a lot of sons, you can still claim the throne."

"Yup." Tsuna nodded with a soft smile. "Four hundred years ago, my great-great-great grandfather, whose name is Giotto de Vongola, built a vigilante group with his seven friends that prioritizes the safety of the town they were situated. The name of that group is Vongola." Orangish brown eyes glanced at him. "The group was well-known to fight against mafia families who want to take control of their town, terrorize other neighboring cities, and do inhuman things. Because of that, they gained a lot of enemies and allies."

"Allies mean some good mafia family, right?" He got a hum. "So, it means there are bad mafia and good mafia?"

"Yup. Just like there are good Yakuza and bad Yakuza. Anyway, since their group was famous, they were dubbed as a mafia family sometimes. Another reason why a lot of families try to get on their good side. Things were nice back then. Everything was peaceful. Until at some time, things got a little nastier." Soma watched as those tawny eyes hardened and turned russet. "The lady of one of my grandfather's friends, Daemon Spade, died because of a feud. She was really loved by Vongola, since she was really bright and kind. Her lover, Daemon, blamed her death to my grandfather and caused a lot of disturbance. An example was the rift between Simon and Vongola."

"Ha?" He blurted.

Tsuna nodded in confirmation. "Simon is a sister group of Vongola. The founder of Simon was the co-founder of Vongola, and a best friend of my grandfather. That founder was Cozart Simon. Their trademark is Enma's compass red eyes. Anyway, Daemon tried to kill the first-generation of Simon family, which caused them to go away."

"Then what happened between your grandfather and his best friend?"

"They parted with good hearts. My grandfather even helped them get away by distracting Daemon Spade, and saying the whole family died just to not get tracked. They exchanged letters too." Tsuna pursed his lips before continuing. "After that, the trouble kinda continued. They had a small problem that caused my grandfather to abandon the group he built and ran away here in Japan. Vongola was handled by his distant cousin by then—Ricardo—under the influence of Daemon Spade. From there, Vongola's clean streaks went downhill and got bloody."

"Daemon Spade is kinda messed up." He commented while having mixed feelings about the bad guy. He doesn't know if he wants to sympathize with him for losing a loved one or get angry for doing a lot of trouble to his friends.

“He was blinded by hate and revenge, Soma. It was kind of understandable. To lost someone important to you because of bad people, you just want to take justice in your hands too. It’s just a matter of how did he do justice, and Daemon did it in the bad way." The brunet sighed. He looked so resigned. "So, the Vongola continued its bloody path for generations. The current boss, Nono, is an old man now who has four sons. All three died, while the other is illegible to rule the family."

He blinked. "Why?"

"Xanxus, my uncle, is adopted. Because of that, they had no choice but to look for other ‘alive’ heir within the bloodline. Iemitsu, my biological father, is a great-great-great grandson of the first boss—my grandfather who was the founder of Vongola. When he was first discovered, Nono put him to the external foundation of Vongola, which is the CEDEF so he can't claim rights to the boss' position. And since he got that seat, he can't claim the vacating position of Nono. That left them no choice but to look at his sons."

Soma halted from his steps as he realized what Tsuna means. He stared at the brunet who stopped a little ahead and turned to see him. "You mean..."

"The organization I was telling you I'm affiliated with back then is Vongola." Tsuna smiled a little, facing him with back straight, left-hand behind his waist, and right-hand on his chest. The brunet bowed a little. "I am Tsunayoshi Sawada, an ex-mafia boss of Vongola Famiglia."

Chapter Text

Chapter Thirty-Six

Soma can't believe it. His mind went back to all of the crazy stories; those times Tsuna was alert, so calm and taking everything in a stride. That one time in the forest too. No wonder he can influence other people. He was a leader. A person who was said to lead a group of people who has to take him seriously.

But at a young age...

"Don't worry about it, Soma." Tsuna dismissed with a wave of his hand. "Iemitsu stripped of my position from me. It wasn't mine in the first place."

Soma frowned. "What? What do you mean?"

"From the start, it was my twin brother who was destined to take the job. I was just used to fight off Xanxus because he wanted to claim rights to the position. But it wheeled down to fighting battles after battles until I'm here." The brunet explained before inclining his head again. "Come on. Off we go. I have a lot to tell you."

Soma doesn't know if he tripped on an ocean called 'Tsuna' because he was surely diving deeper to the brunet's life. But instead of feeling suffocated with all the information that is being told to him, he felt like he can now breathe in air much easier as he swims deeper.

He never knew how much Tsuna suffered when he was a kid until middle school. What Tsuna had to do to protect those people he doesn't want to trouble. To fight dangerous people, gain scars, and get his hope crushed over and over again, and to persevere again and again, and to never give up. The 'Tsuna' he met seven—almost eight—months ago was so different to the 'Tsuna' the brunet was describing. The latter was a coward, a dame, bullied by everyone, teased by his classmates, given-upped by his teachers, and was never acknowledged by anyone. The former is a fighter, a competent individual, loved by anyone, praised by a lot of people, made his teachers amazed, and known to be a good chef. The growth between the two was tremendous and terrifying. But he can't blame Tsuna. He can't blame the lack of self-confidence, self-esteem, and courage.

Somehow, he's itching to talk to Reborn since the latter is the tutor who nurtured the Tsuna today.

Just what did Reborn see when he first saw Tsuna? What was his first impression? What changed his mind to continue tutoring Tsuna? Just how did he do it?

What he liked about Tsuna's adventures were those crazy times. Those moments he accepted his enemies as his acquaintances, and how Tsuna looked so bright while reminiscing all those memories; be it bright or dark. And even if Soma wasn't there, he felt like he was part of them.

He got oriented on what flames are too. Tsuna is a sky; who harmonizes the other six flames. Reborn is a sun (and the most powerful other than being a hitman) who can activate and heal things. Hibari is a cloud that can multiply things a lot. Mukuro and Chrome can make illusions and make them real, like real ball (“Real food?” Soma asked. Tsuna shook his head. “Can’t, Soma.”). Lambo is a lightning who can harden things (who knew the kid used to possess (and still has) dangerous stuffs, like grenade and bazooka?). There were some others like rain which can make slow things down, storm that can break down stuffs into nothing, and night which is known to be bad but is used by some people to teleport (how cool is that?). Flames are amazing that he can just form theories about them.

But what's the most remarkable about everything, even if his friend kept on highlighting everyone, was how Tsuna never gives up. How he shoulders everything and trust everyone to have his back too. Even if Tsuna insists that he never changed, that he's still useless, incompetent and dumb; the redhead says otherwise. His friend is the most amazing person he ever met, and no one will ever beat that.

Soma perked up when the bathroom door opened. Tsuna came in with his towel on his waist. He stared at the scar-marred skin of the brunet. He suddenly got this urge to touch his own scar by his right brow. He was hurt when he got that scar, what more if he gets all of those? Plus, Reborn on the mix?

"Are those the reason why you don't want me to scrub your back?" He asked, pointing at those scars.

Tsuna shook his head as he went past him. "My back is the reason."

Soma blinked at the 'X' scar on the brunet's back. "Woah."

"Yeah. Genkishi, the mist swordsman, gave me that when we had a fight in the future. Since you saw it, go on. Scrub my back, Lil bro."

Yellow eyes narrowed at the jab. "You're the little brother between us."

Tsuna only laughed. "Right."

Soma went on and scrubbed Sawada's back as he tries to formulate a question. "Is this the only nasty scar on you?"

"Hmm... When I fought Daemon Spade with Enma and Mukuro, I had all my bones broken." That made him pause. "I had experienced Skullitis disease with skull tattoos appearing all over my body, saying all my embarrassing secrets and moments until I die."

"But your bones got shattered?" He uttered with his mouth agape.

"And got healed." Tsuna nodded.

Soma itched to ask more about that, but he let it go. The two showered themselves before soaking on the bath.

"How was the tournament?" Tsuna asked softly.

"I lost." Soma replied, recalling what happened. He can't help clenching his hands. "Hayama won while I tied with Kurokiba. Hayama's dish was really delicious. No wonder he won."

Tawny eyes glanced at him. "I'm sorry."

"Nah. It's okay." He said with a smile, letting go of his fists. "It's frustrating since I really wanted to win. But it can't be helped if Hayama's dish was a notch higher."

"You can always get your revenge." Tsuna hummed, a little pleasant and encouraging. "Someday."

Soma suddenly got energized. "And when that day comes, I'll be ready by then. Wait. You know what, I'm going to visit Hayama tomorrow. You wanna come?"

Sawada scrunched his face before shaking his head. "I don't think I can do that. Maybe I'm sleeping in tomorrow since Reborn and I just got harmonized."

"Harmonized?" The redhead queried with a tilt of his head.

"When a sky attracts elements, it doesn't mean they're already his. Harmonization is like certifying that they belong to you and no one can take them anymore." Tsuna patiently explained.

His mouth with 'o'.

"I harmonized with Hibari, Mukuro, and Chrome on the same day. It took a lot of my energy that I got knocked out after our phone call. Reborn had to put me on my futon because I fell on his bed. Reborn and I harmonized two hours ago. It will take effect tomorrow. Surely, I'll wake up late again."

Yukihira hummed. He wonders... "You said everyone has flames, right?" Tsuna nodded. "What do I have?"

"Storm." Sawada answered without a beat. "When I came back, most of them pointed it out that I have a big storm attached on my sky flames." Tawny eyes glanced at him. "You and I harmonized back in the diner. Remember when I unusually slept in?"

Soma blinked. "Yes. It was really unusual because you looked really tired when I was about to wake you up, so I let you sleep more. I mean you're often up early. And that was because of me?"

"Yup. But it's a good thing, Soma." Tsuna smiled. "It's certified that I see you as my home."

He can't help grinning at that. "And I'm the same to you?"

"Yup." The brunet nodded. "You can tell Hayama that I said hi. I bet he's angry that I bailed out."

He shrugged. "I don't know if they understand. Some were really upset. You'll be a target like me."

"That's their problem." Tsuna waved off. "If they want me to quit-"

"They'll have to face me in a Shokugeki first." He cut off with his face morphing to a scowl; crossing his arms in emphasis. "If they defeat me, we'll both quit."

He looked at the other who laughed. "Okay."

They talked and soaked a little more before they went out of the bath to rinse and get dressed. It didn't feel right for Soma to part ways with the brunet so early when he got to his room. Although it was nearing midnight and they had been talking, he couldn't settle well. It's like Tsuna hadn't said everything yet. Information overload be damn. Tsuna is a priority.

So, he took off his blanket, went out of bed with his covers and pillow in arms, and stalked out of his room. It was good that everyone was asleep and he got excused from the party, after he told them that Tsuna arrived and the brunet was tired. Tsuna was trying to kick him to them, but he didn't want to leave him. He did stay with them for an hour to let the brunet settle in the dorm before inviting him for a bath.

When he got down to the ground floor, he immediately went for room twenty-seven. He knocked on the door and waited. Silent footsteps approached the wood, then some locks were removed before it opened. Tsuna peered at him from the small space before opening it.

"Shouldn't you be sleeping?" The brunet asked with a frown.

Soma moved his shoulders up and down with a fake innocent look. "Can't sleep."

He went inside, grinning like a winner, when Tsuna opened the door wider with a fond sigh. The room was a little disarranged. There was a sheet on the floor with a pile of unfolded clothes on one part and another part with stacks of folded clothes, then there's an empty space by the front. Tsuna must be arranging his clothes back to the closet and taking a new set for his overnight bag.

He sat by the bed and stashed his paraphernalia there. He watched as Tsuna sat on the provided space and started to do his work again. Yellow eyes observed the brunet. It didn't take long for Tsuna to gave in to exhaustion and yawned while rubbing his eyes.

"I think I should help you with that." He volunteered as he went down to sit beside his friend. "You look tired."

"Flame exhaustion. Not something to worry about." Tsuna dismissed as they started to fold shirts. "Thanks for helping out."

Soma hummed. "Did something happen?" He felt tawny eyes glance at him. "You're quieter than you've been in the past times we're together. It means something is bugging you."

"No. It's more of I can't grasp the idea that for awhile, I feel free." The brunet replied, slouching while staring at the clothe in his hand. This caused Soma to stop from folding the shirt in his hands. "The reason I came late was because I had to use the night as a barricade from Iemitsu. So he couldn't follow me with his men."

"You runaway again."

"Only from him. It's not entirely the Vongola I'm hiding from, Soma. It's him. The reason why I was thought to be Vongola Decimo was because he pushed through the idea that I cover for my twin who he took to Italy."

He gawked at the other. "He separated you?"

Tsuna nodded. "Kaasan never knew about it. She doesn't even remember having twins, except when Ieyasu came. Her memory was altered. After I broke the curse of the Arcobaleno, he presented Ieyasu as the true Vongola Decimo."

Soma's eyes widened in realization. "Your world knew that Vongola Decimo did some miracles. If he does that, that means he's taking all credits from you and putting it on Ieyasu."

"That's the reason why I'm the cover up, Soma. But he didn't know I could achieve a lot. Not even Reborn expected that from me. So after he introduced Ieyasu, he kinda stripped everything from me. My title, my family, my tutor. Kaasan even. But it doesn't mean those who target the Decimo believe that Ieyasu is the true boss. They kept attacking me, and I had enough, so I ran away."

The redhead's hands clenched in annoyance. "That's some prick."

"Pft. Anyway, since I came back, he confronted me and tried to make me stay inside Namimori. He confiscated my phone too."

"What?! Then how come you can call me and you can answer my calls?!" He exclaimed. He is so torn between getting annoyed at the older Sawada and feeling amazed at Tsuna.

"Headphones. Our tech group updated it for me. I told you, didn't I? Verde is offering you an upgrade too. They're that thankful to you."

Soma calmed down. "Then what happened?"

"Ieyasu, Gokudera and Yamamoto had a confrontation with me first before I got away. I was flying when his men started to shot at me. We talked a little." Soma watched as a satisfied grin itched on Tsuna's lips. "I told him I'm disowning him as my father. And before you laugh, I also told him that he doesn't have the rights to act like one to me because he became a star—basically dead—and, the one I acknowledge as my Dad is around the world, cooking his heart out."

The redhead snickered. He has to tell that to his Dad once he passes Tsuna's number to the latter. He'll be very proud. "Damn. I like that word you chose. I suddenly want to look at his face after you said that to him."

"Wait." Tsuna reached out for his phone and started to tap on it. "Reborn sent me pictures awhile ago. You can look at them first since I've been putting away my things when I received it."

Soma took the phone when the brunet handed it to him. The first picture he saw was a middle-aged man with a flame on his head gaping like a fish, looking astonished and ambushed. It must be Iemitsu. He snickered before swiping left. His eyes inspected the next picture. It was a party, a 'Welcome Back Mama' banner on the side. The prominent one in the picture is Tsuna talking with people. He was holding a drink in his hand, smiling a little. There's also one that the brunet was hugging Nana with a bright smile. He was playing with the kids. Talking with Reborn and helping Nana and three other girls cook.

There's also a picture of Tsuna talking with Bianchi. Sitting beside Enma, (probably) roughing up with three of the Simon, playing cards with Nana, handing a big bento box to Chrome, running away from Hibari who has sticks in his hands, cooking with the kids, then being surrounded with some people with one wearing a crown and the other is a big frog hat. A picture of Tsuna standing beside Dino with Romario on the back. Then being surrounded by the Arcobaleno. He swiped back to see that one picture Tsuna was being surrounded by weird looking people. It looks like they're talking about something. Tsuna's eyes were orange too.

"Ah. That's Varia." He looked up to see the brunet peaking over. "The frog hat is Fran. He's a student of Mukuro and very talented. He has a wild imagination about fairies and things; usually a target of Mukuro's trident and Belphegor's knives because he calls the former a pineapple and the other a fake prince. He even called me Lion-san."

Soma gazed away with a 'pft'. He can see why Tsuna is Lion-san. He approves.

"What does that mean?!" Sawada asked in indignation.

"Nothing. So who's the guy wearing a crown?" He stirred away.

"That's Belphegor-san. He's a prince of a kingdom. He calls everyone peasant, except for those he acknowledges. He has a unique laugh which is 'ushishishi', he likes knives, and taught me techniques of how to sharpen mine. He even offered to give me a new set, but I declined since we're the ones who bought my knives."

Soma nodded, smiling a little at how appreciative Tsuna was, before swiping again. "These guys?"

"Lussuria is the one with colored hair. He takes care of them and heals them up. Levi is the one holding a cup of red drink; loyal to Xanxus. He's nice though. As long as you don't say something bad about his boss, you'll be fine."

"These two?" He asked after switching to another picture.

"The long haired one is Squalo. His right-hand is a sword, second-in-command of Varia, the sword emperor, and he taught me how to take care of my knives too. He's pretty loud. And that's Xanxus, my uncle. His flames are a mix of sky and storm, he can form them in his hand or use it on his guns."

"Really?" He asked, eyes twinkling.

Tsuna gave him a deadpan. "No. I'm gloves, like the first boss. Anyway, he's the boss of the Varia. He's usually hotheaded and throws things at you when he doesn't like you, he likes you, and he's neutral with you."

Soma can't help laughing at that. "That's just weird."

"I know right." The brunet sighed with an exasperated fond sigh. "I'm surrounded by weirdos."

"You're also a weirdo." He pointed out. "You're the only normal one among you. That makes you abnormal."

"Damn." Tsuna cursed in surrender.

Soma laughed before looking back to the pictures. "You have one big family, Tsuna."

"We-" He eyed Sawada who knocked on his head. "-have a big family, Soma. They already accept you. They're just waiting to meet you personally. Don't even be surprised if Kaasan suddenly pulls up a celebration once you come home with me. Then Reborn will start this Vongola-style game that ranks up who has the best welcome to the family gift for you. It can be a presentation or a gift. The person with the highest score has a reward from Reborn himself."

"Woah. That sounds fun." He blinked. He can already picture out what will happen after he saw the photo of the party for Nana. "The whole family will be there?"

"Not usually. But since it will be awhile and you're going to come, they'll be. It will be so chaotic. Don't sweat it though." Tsuna gave him a bright smile that felt sarcastic and insulting for him. "You'll fit in."

"What does that mean?!" He accused, only to receive a laugh.

"Ah. Here, Soma." He was presented of a ring in a silver necklace. "Your flames are dormant, so it can't be helped if you can't lit it up."

"Woah." He murmured while staring at the silver ring. The front is like a shield. It has three shells in a row and a swirling wind at the bottom.

"I took this from Gokudera." Tsuna informed as he put the ring on the redhead's hand. "I don't know if he understands, but I think he will at one point."

He stared at the intricately carved ring. "Why give it to me then?"

"Giotto has a first mate when they created Vongola. A true friend of his, other than Cozart Simon. That's G, his first storm. And since you're my storm, you get that ring." He watched Tsuna took the pile of clothes they folded (it's just the brunet really. He only folded two.) and stacked them inside the closet. "Our friendship doesn't need a proof, but I want to tell them that I've chosen my storm, my life, and I made my decision. If they want to take it away from you, trick them with your food."

"I don't know how to fight." He pointed out.

Tsuna's head whipped at his direction and shook his head, looking a little surprised and winded. "No no. You don't need to fight Soma. I don't need you to fight. I just want you to be you. Just cook. My guardians a year ago were chosen because we have to fight Xanxus. But for me, it doesn't look like that. It's in the will."

"Will?"

"The Vongola rings only answer to the resolve of their holders." The brunet moved towards him and took his hand. "The Vongola storm is someone who's relentlessly at the heart of attack. Someone who never gives up and continuously fighting with his will. That's you. You've lost a lot against Dad, you lost against Shinomiya-sempai, you lost against Hayama. But you're still here. You haven't given up as a cook. You're always looking forward on cooking, on facing more amazing chefs here and there. You're frustrated on your lose tonight, yet you're still looking forward to visit Hayama to get something new from him. And that's a storm, Soma. That's my storm."

Soma's heart fluttered at the trust. He can't help smiling widely as warmth crept to his face. God. It feels nice that someone sees his efforts. That someone knows he fights and he won't give up until he proves that he's worthy as a chef and to inherit Yukihira diner.

He bowed a little when Tsuna pats his head. He watched as the brunet took the other clothes and stuffed them nicely in the closet. Soma, in return, stared at the ring in his hand. He closed his eyes, held it tight before slipping its chain over his head. The ring felt cool on his sternum with the necklace around his neck, at the same time warm too for some reasons.

After Tsuna arranged everything, he was ushered to the bed. It didn't take long for his friend to fall asleep. Soma observed how Tsuna looked so contented. And he can't stop smiling at that before he went to sleep too.

He didn't know that the ring glowed red.

He didn't notice how it slowly turned to its version Vongola X storm ring.

And he didn't realize that his will got accepted.

Chapter Text

Chapter Thirty-Seven

Tsuna stared at Hayama.

Hayama stared back.

The brunet pursed his lips and weighed the pros and cons of what his friend is trying to get out of him. They're not entirely doing a Shokugeki, but they don't have a good judge. It's only Shiomi-sensei, Kurokiba, and Soma. They can do it with Shiomi as their judge. But Kurokiba will want a match against him too. Then Soma after. Damn. He's lamenting on his life now. If he wasn't being surrounded by weirdos, he has competitive people.

He only came here because Soma told him that the two wanted him to come. They have been bugging the redhead for three days to the point that it's driving the latter crazy. And Tsuna was being driven to insanity those past days too; cause he got busy shaking off some people by then (a.k.a some reporters and challengers) so he could move freely.

So, Yukihira got a brilliant (note the fond sarcasm) idea to solve their problem. The solution? He goes with Soma to Hayama, so he could shake off his pursuers and the latter won't get bugged again. He blatantly declined, but the redhead is expert on dodging 'no' for an answer. Soma even had to pull him out of the bed and push him to the bathroom that morning, just so they could move out. He was excited to eat the girls' new dish for the day too, but he got kidnapped to meet the two. Not that he's not thankful to see them though.

"So?" Hayama asked impatiently, arms crossed.

"I don't really think it will be a good idea." He grimaced. "Although Shiomi-sensei will be good enough to judge for us, it doesn't mean Kurokiba-san and Soma won't ask me to compete against them too."

"I do want to compete against you." Kurokiba nodded.

"Give Tsuna-kun a break." Shiomi admonished to the three. "It wasn't only you three who wanted to fight against him. He also wanted to go to the classics. If the circumstances were avoidable, he could've gone and cooked off against you. If you want an official match, take him to a shokugeki or take three judges to cook for in a casual match."

"You can be the judge for us, Jun." Hayama insisted. "It won't be that hard."

Tsuna sighed. "There are two points why we can't do a casual match right now." He raised a finger as the four listened. "One, ingredients. Your building doesn't have the ingredients we will need to do our dishes despite the fact that it's near a mountain, a forest, or something." Then he raised another finger. "And two, I'm not equipped. I can fight you. Trust me, I can. Even with someone else's knife. But, will it be fair to you for me to fight with someone else's knife while you fight using yours?"

Hayama's and Kurokiba's expressions went to something that Soma usually wears whenever he tells the redhead his reasons of why and why not do something. He never actually uses it on anyone in his family, nor does he know he can reason. It's probably his intuition speaking.

Soma snickered amidst the silence. "Nice points, Tsuna."

"Fine." Kurokiba stated, before his usual lackluster eyes narrowed in threats. "But we will get our match against you."

Hayama nodded, seconding.

The brunet put a hand on his chest as a sign that he means it. "I promise."

"But why aren't you excited to fight Tsuna-kun, Yukihira? You're also a finalist." Shiomi questioned, rather curious with how relaxed the redhead was.

"I am excited to go against Tsuna." Soma replied with honesty. "But I think our cook-off will be established someday and not any nearer."

"Ha?" The three blurted while the brunet took his share of tea and started to drink it. Seems like Shiomi used Hayama's blend since he can smell the fragrance.

"You'll understand when you match up against him." Soma cheekily smiled before eyeing Tsuna who took a biscuit and nipped on it. "Good luck with that, by the way."

"Anyway," Sawada said loud enough so any incoming response to Soma's statement get drowned and be forgotten. "One of the faculty I talked with this morning wished me luck in my ‘stagiaire’ days. What does that mean, Shiomi-sensei?"

"Ah. The stagiaire system." The teacher clapped as if she just remembered it. "It's that time of the year already."

"Stagiaire system?" Soma repeated and going attentive with Kurokiba. "What's that?"

"To begin with, stagiaire means ‘trainee’ in French. Cooks who are in charge of the initial preparations and routine duties in the kitchen are called stagiaire or stage too. Well, I don't really have to explain that." The brunet hid his snicker when his three fellow students glanced at each other in trepidation. "Anyway, the stagiaire system in Tootsuki Academy is part of the curriculum in which first-year students of the high school division are sent to various professional kitchen." Shiomi continued.

Tsuna froze and stared at the professor with wide eyes.

"The places they're sent include high-class restaurants, foodstuff makers, and even public institutions. It's an official part of the classes with the objective of letting the students learn about the atmosphere in real kitchens. Some students get enamored with the places they were sent to and end up working there." The lady said with pride.

"Wow. In this age where finding a job is difficult..." Soma awed.

"Yes. For example, famous Hotel T, Italian Restaurant O, French Restaurant Q and many more." Shiomi listed off.

"Amazing! They're all places I've heard about." The redhead exclaimed, glancing at Tsuna who grinned to hide his nervousness. Good thing the redhead didn't see it.

"Well, it's the fruit of Tootsuki's brand power." Shiomi said with a proud smirk.

Tsuna bit the cookie he was eating as he thinks. With this stagiaire system, he'll be in a lot of trouble. Anyone can come in the restaurant and recognize him. Well, he can always give the tech group a heads-up of which place he'll be assigned to correct the CCTV footage.

He bit the cookie a little too hard in frustration. Damn it. What can he do? Dye his hair black? Cut it short? Maybe he should ask Reborn of what he needs to do. Because frankly, he does not want to be found by any of Vongola and bring trouble to the establishment he will be assigned just because some assassins or hitmen recognized him.

"What do you think, Tsuna?" He glanced at Soma who asked him that.

He gave a smile. Yeah. He should ask Reborn. "I think it will be fun. We'll be able to experience things if we do this correctly."

"Then we only have to not cause trouble and finish our work with no delay to complete this assignment?" Hayama queried, arms crossed and looking questioningly at Shiomi.

"More like how can we pass in this assignment, Hayama-san." He corrected, gaining their attentions. "Cause restaurants have different criteria. Imagine you did almost everything they ask you to do, and then after your training, they suddenly say you failed just because you just did what was said you need to do, not because you want to do it."

"Tsuna-kun is correct." The teacher nodded as she raised a finger to give a point. "The passing criterion is whether you, in your one week as a trainee, can leave visible results."

Tsuna and Soma looked at each other before grinning at the same, creeping out Hayama and Kurokiba.

"We might as well buy a bicycle or something on the way, Soma." He hummed, still grinning as he sipped on his cooling tea.

"Yeah. Do you think we'll end up being in a same restaurant at some point? I suddenly miss working with you in the diner." The redhead nodded while relaxing on his seat and regarded the others. "Hope we meet there somewhere."

Sawada laughed when Hayama and Kurokiba trashed-talked Soma, who fought back with his own grin. He took out his phone as Shiomi started to scold them for being too loud, and composed a text to send to his tutor.

'To: Reborn

Subject: (none)

Message: Problem: What can I do to change my appearance a bit? I don't want to be recognized when I started going out of the academy for training jobs.'

Tsuna stared at the fancy restaurant in front of him. It looked like one of those shops that he sees on TV with all these grand gestures and shiny gold appearances. Looking down at the documents he received, he read it again to check if he did the instructions right.

Well, he was asked to meet his pair in front of the restaurant they will get trained so early in the morning. According to the instructions, they will spend one-week there and leave a visible result as they do what they were asked to do. It doesn't look that hard. If only his partner will be someone agreeable or something.

Putting the documents back to their folder and stuffing it carefully in his bag, he reached out and clicked his headset off. He removed it before combing his short dyed-black hair with a hand. Yeah. He did both ideas. It was suggested by Reborn and approved by Soma. He even let Fumio do the cutting. It's not that short. Just enough so he won't be recognized that easily and it could grow after a month or so.

"So, you're my partner." He looked back to see who said that. He was graced with Hayama's imposing presence. "Akira Hayama." The other introduced himself.

Tsuna smiled, satisfied with himself. Good. It means he can't be recognized that well. "Tsunayoshi Sawada."

"Ha?" His friend blurted out, before green eyes widened in surprise. "Tsuna?"

"Yup." He nodded, grinning. He walked for the front of the restaurant. "Good. You didn't recognize me."

"Of course, I won't." The other scoffed as he follows. "You cut your hair short and you colored it black. What's the gist?"

"So people won't recognize me that easily." He simply replied as he opened the door of the establishment for them.

Tsuna eyed the interior design of the restaurant as they walked in. The shop is well lit with the sun's natural light, emphasizing the color of light brown ceiling, white walls, and hard flooring. There are tables in designated spaces. Some have four plush-looking yellow tub chairs with equally four American-styled table setting while others have lath chairs, just beside the see-through window. There are hanging lights by the ceiling too, and six ceiling fans. For him, it looks homey enough, if it doesn't feel wrong in many ways.

Tawny eyes met green ones who looked equally unamused. Of course, they already know the obvious problem. If it was any popular open restaurant in town, the place would've been buzzing with people. But the problem is the ushers. Not one has appeared nor welcomed them.

Hayama took the lead and strode inside. Tsuna let his grasp on the door slack until he let goes and followed his partner to the corridor that obviously went to the kitchen. When they got there, there is an old man sitting on a stool in white chef uniform, complete with the chef top hat and waist-apron. He looked like someone who's very strict. Tsuna wonders if he'll fail on the very first trial with this kind of head-chef?

"Good morning." Tsuna and Hayama greeted with small bows.

"Are you the trainees from Tootsuki?" The old man questioned with his gruff voice. Both nodded. "Change in your uniforms in the staff room."

Tsuna gave a small nod to the old man before following Hayama to the staff room. When he got there, he familiarized himself with the place. Well, there is a bathroom on the far side, then some lockers with names on their doors are lined up. He walked around and smiled a little when he saw his name on one of them, just next to Hayama's.

He dropped his duffel bag on the ground before opening the locker. Just as what the chef said, there is a uniform complete with the shoes. Tsuna took off his jacket and was about to remove his shirt when he paused and glanced at Hayama at the corner of his eyes. His partner had his locker door obscuring any views. Tsuna quickly removed his shirt and pulled on the long-sleeved polo shirt and buttoned them up with immediate accuracy. He pulled off his pants and replaced it with the black slacks before pulling on the black vest and tied the black apron around his waist. He pulled out the shoes and moved for the bench, just in time for Hayama to check on him.

A white brow was raised at him as he slipped on the shoes. He blinked innocently at Hayama whilst standing up to move to his locker's mirror and tie the bow-tie around the collar of his neck. He plated the clothes with his hands, nodded in satisfaction before looking at Hayama who was having trouble with his tie.

"May I?" He asked, gesturing to the fabric.

"Yeah. Teach me next time." Hayama permitted as the brunet, now noiret, took the end of the tie and started to do it.

"Sure." Tsuna nodded as he dropped his hands and walked past the dark-skin teen. "Come on. We need to know what's up with this restaurant."

"One Junior omelet." Tsuna said to him while readying a tray.

Hayama quickly went to work without being told by the head-chef, who was still sitting on the stool. Right after he placed the plate on the counter, Tsuna already had it and put it on the tray with a glass of orange juice. He watched the brunet, now noiret, carry the tray above his five-fingers and went out of the kitchen.

Frankly, he didn't expect Tsuna to ask permission from the head-chef to become an usher for the day as Hayama becomes the chef. The noiret made him memorize the menu and the recipes for thirty minutes before entering the kitchen with a written order in hand. And as each passing minutes came by, he kept coming in with new orders and coming out with them cooked and ready. Everything was so smooth. Heck, even the head-chef has been silent by then, observing them work.

"Order." Tsuna announced with a sadistic smile whilst coming in. He's waving a paper in the air before looking down on it. "Three Belgian waffles, a frying-pan pile up, two kiddie French toasts, and two country-style grits. Can you take all of that, Hayama-san?"

Hayama puffed a breath. "You're underestimating me, Tsuna."

The noiret chuckled as he took a pot from the hanging pots and pans. "Of course not. I'm just asking if you can make them in a record time."

"You should be worrying yourself." He retorted as he started to cook. "You're the one who's gonna carry all of these after I'm done."

"Are you sure about that?" Sawada hummed as he poured milk on the pot he put above the fire.

Both trainees glanced at the door that opened and two persons went in, chatting and laughing.

"Kato-san." Tsuna called out to the head-chef while turning for the coffee maker. "I think you should move those muscles of yours already."

"I'll take on the Belgian waffles and the Country-style grits, Hayama." The old man stated as he stood up and faced the stove just beside him, obviously agreeing with the noiret. "Get the trays ready, Sawada."

"Roger." Tsuna answered in a small voice.

Hayama concentrated on his task. At some point, Tsuna was able to rope up the two newly arrived staffs to do things for him. They were clearly surprised at how busy the kitchen had become with just three people when they came in. And to suddenly get thrusted into a war zone without getting any breather first, it must be a shock for them.

When the breakfast rush was done, Tsuna was cleaning the dishes with a guy a little older than them. They were chatting a little. Hayama sat by the stool, doing some preparations on one of the counters for the incoming lunch hour as instructed by the head-chef. He watched at the corner of his eyes as the noiret use his waist apron to dry his hands, before moving towards them with a smile.

Sometimes, he wonders how the heck the noiret doesn't get cheek aches with how much he smiles. Whenever he saw someone he knew, he'll smile. He met someone new, he'll smile. Hell, if given opportunity, Tsuna will smile at the world. Sometimes it's too bright that the whitehead felt attacked by the sun.

He's not saying that it's not nice to be welcomed with a smile. Only a couple of people smile at him whenever they see him (There are Jun, Yukihira, and Tsuna). It's just that he wonders if Tsuna has ever removed that smile off his lips. Or has he been angry at some point or did he cry at a certain time. Or did someone tell him or ask him to stop smiling. But imagining it now, he'll regret thinking of that.

He can't imagine Tsuna frowning, scowling or just expressionless.

It's terrifying.

"Sakura-san is outside." Tsuna informed them as he took the greens and started to wash them. "Chef Kato, it's nice to meet you."

The old man, who was peeling the potatoes, gave a gruff laugh. "You made charges outside the kitchen without even introducing yourself."

"It can't be helped." Hayama watched as the noiret slapped the green lettuce on his hand, mouth quirking a little with his brows furrowing a little too. "It concerned me that no one is at front to receive the customers. Might as well take the initiative. I hope I did not overstep boundaries, Chef."

"I'd rather have you as my employee if your mind is set like that." The chef remarked.

Tawny eyed met green ones. "Thank you."

Hayama looked down at the ingredients he's working on. Tsuna basically told him to find his own problem and solve it with visible results.

That was a challenge, right?

Day four and he's not happy.

Very not happy.

With a sigh, Tsuna turned the 'open' sign of the shop to 'close' and walked back to the kitchen where everyone was gathered. He peered at Hayama, who nodded, as he let the door close behind him. The whitehead already found the problem in the kitchen. If Tsuna's problem was the service, Hayama's was the lack of unity.

They already talked about it the very morning they found themselves alone with the head chef. Jiro Kato is a good man. A good boss who is very lenient to his employees when he wants to. But due to his old age, he is being underestimated and disrespected. No wonder the staffs always come late and are slacking off.

The ushers and waiters: Sakura Takikawa, Benji Hiro, Lyon Niwa and Ryousaki Akaashi were all complaining about their lacking salaries. Same with Hinano Wakatoshi, Satoshi Umino and Kairo Sasae, who were chefs. And the two knew that it's Kato's act of vengeance for their laziness. In a sense, if you work nicely, you'll get the salary you deserve.

"Can we all be honest?" Tsuna asked, his tawny eyes inspecting every expression. "Right now, we won't be receiving customers until I say so."

"Wha-"

He stared down at them, removing any bits of smile on his face and making his stand relax and imposing. It was something he learned from adult Reborn in the representative battles. "Even if we do open the store, we won't be able to give service since not one of you gives them what they want. For the past three days, I've observed that even if I go late, not one usher nor waiter is willing to do professional services to the customers. Not one smile is given, causing the decreasing number of customers. Have you entered a restaurant with that kind of customer service? No. Of course not. But why can't we do the same in here?"

Silence.

"As I said, let's be honest. Why do the four of you come late if you live near here?" He eyed the ushers and waiters who bowed their heads in shame. "One cook and one waiter can run a restaurant. I've seen such. If you work hard, you get your full salary. If you don't reach nor surpass the customer quota for the day, your salaries won't be filled full. You all know how hard it is to maintain the supply of electricity, water, and buy ingredients. You get what I mean?"

"Yes." The four responded weakly.

After Tsuna's intuition confirmed to him that the others got his point, he nodded at Hayama who took the stage.

"As Tsuna said, one chef and one waiter can run a restaurant." Hayama started off as he crossed his arms. "Chef Kato isn't someone to be taken lightly. He's the head-chef and the owner of the restaurant. He maybe old, but you have seen how he barked orders on both Tsuna and I. He is only lenient to you because you haven't shown any determination to help him nor follow his every instruction. At such, I can see that the problem in the kitchen is unity. Just because you are said to focus on your task, it doesn't mean you can't help in preparing other ingredients for the other dishes."

The three chefs fidgeted.

"We are only trainees." Hayama stated. "We won't be here long. You will need to fill-up our roles again. If Tsuna leaves, what will happen to the service that had been going well for the past three days? What will happen to the kitchen if I'm not here, asking any of you to do things so the work will go efficiently?"

The brunet put his gaze on the head-chef. "What can you say, Kato-san?"

"I will give you what you deserve." The old man announced. "If I see you working hard, you will also get a well-deserved pay. No man will be satisfied with his reward if he knew to himself that he didn't do his best to earn it."

"Maybe you should be stricter, Kato-san." His partner suggested. "I deduced that you were taken lightly when they discovered that you're pretty lenient. Even I could've slacked off if I don't love cooking."

"Is that so?" The head-chef queried before looking at the brunet who was only listening. "What about you, Sawada? Did you think the same thing?"

Tsuna blinked before smiling sheepishly in nervousness. "Honestly, no, chef."

"No?"

He thought of Reborn and grimaced. "I've learnt a long time ago that judging a person by how he looks is not good. We tend to overestimate and underestimate others because of first impressions. You may look strict and act lenient with your employees, but there's also a possibility that once you had enough of their attitudes, you will kick them out without further explanation."

"I do that a lot of time; even the latest." The chef nodded, causing the others to stare at him. "It's the reason how these guys got the jobs."

Tsuna grinned and shot a look to the seven employees who paled. "I see. Anyway, since we have pointed out our mistakes and saw what we have to change. Let's all do our best to correct them and change them for the betterment of our jobs."

"Yes!" The seven responded.

He nodded and turned back for the door. "Then let's open up the restaurant again. I'll be right back."

The day went better than expected. The usher and usherette took their jobs seriously and the service of the waiters have stepped up. There was a sense of contentment on their team whenever a customer says thank you or leave a tip as a sign of their satisfaction. The kitchen went on full throttle under the command of Chef Kato. He barked orders here and there, making all four chefs running around.

By the end of the day, Tsuna was smiling widely as he changed into his casual attire. He was peeling off his shirt when the door opened. Muttering a curse under his breath, he hurriedly gripped the both sides of his polo and glanced at Hayama who came in. As the other opened his locker, Tsuna took that opportunity to take it off and pull in his shirt.

"What the hell."

Tawny eyes widened and looked back to see Hayama staring at him with wide eyes too. He can't help cursing. "Fuck."

"Your back..."

Tsuna pursed his lips before giving a tight smile. "Don't mind them."

The air around them was tense. After a minute of staring, Hayama turned back to his locker and started to dress. Tsuna took his bag from the locker, slung it on his shoulder, and grasped his phone. He contemplated of whether to pat his partner's shoulder, but he did anyways.

"See ya tomorrow, Hayama-san." He bid softly as he went out.

He just hopes Hayama doesn't think about what he saw on his back. It will become troublesome.

"Exchange." Tsuna tilted his head to the right a little to gauge on Kato who nodded. He peered at Hayama, who gazed back at him, before they returned their eyes to the man. "Why?"

"Because I haven't seen you cook other than the coffee and hot choco you made on the first day." Kato noted then eyed his partner. "And he never left the kitchen unless you call for him or he needs something from you."

He glanced at Hayama. "If Hayama-san agrees, I will do it."

"Just for the day?" Hayama queried.

"If you do it poorly, it will be. But, it will affect your performance as a whole." The head chef warned with a mischievous smile.

Silence.

The taller between the pair got pulled by the other to face back. Hayama could see the panic in Tsuna's face. "What are you worried about?"

"You can always back out." The brunet whispered to him before a thoughtful look crossed his face. "Although your cool demeanor can be a good asset for you. I mean I've seen some cafe with role playing themes. Like there are maid cafes, butler-themed restaurant."

"I have some experience in this." Hayama remarked before he clammed his mouth shut when tawny eyes stared at him. "Fine. I don't. I have small people interactions."

"I do too." Tsuna confessed before smiling. "But you can make it work. All you have to do is listen to the others' instructions, receive the customers with politeness, and recommend dishes if ever they couldn't pick. Just think of serving Shiomi-sensei."

Hayama knew blushing won't be visible on his dark skin, but he still did and fought against it. How the heck did Tsuna know that part of him? "Fine."

The brunet grinned and turned back to the head chef who was waiting for them. "Deal."

Kato raised amused brows at them. "Can you take on the pressure?"

Hayama watched as the grin went a little feral. "The pressure here doesn't compare to the pressures I've been in my life, Kato-san."

Hayama found himself questioning Tsuna's life as he got briefed by Niwa and Takikawa of what he should do. He can't help himself from remembering the scars he saw on the noiret's back the night before as he readied himself. They were too many to count and too painful to stare at. He knew he was a slum kid, but he didn't receive that kind of beating when he was young. And the mentioned pressure... What kind of pressure did the other got through to take the atmosphere in the kitchen lightly?

That begs him to connect it to the change of haircut and color.

Shaking his head, he focused on the task at hand. Serving people while being polite isn't that hard, but answering their questions was. He can't hold conversations without railing up anyone or being self-centered. Although he could tolerate Jun’s, Yukihira’s, and Tsuna’s chattering, he still can't do a two-way convo. But he did heed Tsuna's advice. Imagine them as Jun for a little bit and be polite as possible in replying. When he got to the kitchen, he didn't expect it to be less chaotic.

Everything was silent. The quiet hum of the sizzling pans, boiling pots and constant shifts of knives, ladles, spatulas, and spoons were the only ones that can be heard. And also, the low crooning of a song that can be heard from the noiret who is plating a dish with fluid movements that he'd only seen from Chef Kato. For a moment, Hayama contemplated whether to just stand there and watch the noiret work his impressive plating, or to step back a bit and close the door and open it again to check if the kitchen he has been in for the past days was still the one he's observing.

"Tsuna-kun, the pasta is ready." Sasae remarked quietly.

"’be there." Sawada answered as he put the dish on an empty tray and smiled at him when he got noticed. "Order up, Hayama-san."

Hayama nodded, mentally shaking his head. "Right."

As the day dragged on, he found himself hearing the others talking about Tsuna. It wasn't that hard to talk about the noiret since he was the first one to make some moves for the restaurant to get back to its feet. Who knew putting some soft music on will make the store more ‘homey’ for the staffs and the guests? At some point, he agreed in all of their opinions about his partner. Sawada is a great guy. No doubt about that. But scary when needed too.

Hayama remembers how he stood stiff on his spot when Tsuna's small smile got removed from his lips and stared down at the staffs, causing for any complains to be drowned. He hadn't seen anyone do that. It was just a stare, and it silenced everyone. The noiret is more of a scrawny guy who can be snapped into two. But wow. Really. If that expressionless face was any indication of how serious he was, what more if the other was angry?

"Hayama-san!" Tsuna called out for him with a cheer, before looking back to the food on the tray and made a thinking face. "I suddenly want a bell here. What do you think?"

"Like every time you finish cooking and the order is up, you'll just ring it?" Umino asked from his spot.

"Yeah." Tsuna nodded as Hayama inspects the dish.

"That does make it sound like we're more professional of a kitchen." Wakatoshi nodded as she put a newly made dish on the counter and acted like she was ringing the bell. Her face lit up. "Oh!"

"See?" Tsuna nodded with a giddy smile before winking at him. "Order up."

He can't help snorting and knocked on the noiret's forehead. "Right."

Maybe Yukihira was right. He'll understand how great of a cook Tsuna is once they match against him. Cause honestly, no one can make his mouth water for a food if it wasn't for the noiret's cooking.

Chapter Text

Chapter Thirty-Eight

Tsuna can't help grinning widely. The short-haired woman in formal suit just told them they passed and explained how they made remarkable changes in the restaurant. Everyone did work hard to change every mistake. The staffs don't get late anymore, the head chef balanced the leniency and strictness, and the restaurant is becoming famous. He will honestly miss the locals who sing along with him sometimes, but everything has to end, right?

He looked at Hayama and offered his hand for a high-five. He first earned an insufferable sigh before he got a good slap on the hand. They do make a good team. And he's thankful that his pair didn't ask him about the scars.

"Thank you." Tsuna expressed to the woman who nodded.

"You will get a document tomorrow with the information of your next training place." The woman instructed as the driver of the car beside her open the door. "I wish you the best of luck."

They watched her get in the car before the driver closed the door and drove off after getting on his designated job. Tsuna raised his arms to stretch and sighed in relief. First hurdle done, three more to go. He has to get back to the inn he's staying at to get a good night rest and anticipate the next assignment.

"Are you going to tell me about the scars now?" Tsuna froze and turned to Hayama whose green eyes were looking at him with caution. "It's not my business, but I still want to know." His pair added on with a cross of his arms.

Tsuna slowly brought his arms down as he contemplated of what to say. Surely, there is no use crying over spilt milk. He just has to assure the other to keep the latter's mind peaceful. Maybe try being vague but stick to the truth?

He took a deep breath. "It's not from abuse, Hayama-san. I assure you. They're results of fights I have to overcome to live. But it's okay now. I only have one obstacle to overcome in order to be free."

"That explains the new hair." The whitehead noted.

He gave a tight smile. "Yeah. So, no one can recognize me. Good thing it doesn't smell that much. Remember Shinomiya-sempai?"

Hayama gave a small smile, relenting. "Yeah. That was hardcore criticism. Anyway, thanks for being my partner this week."

"No prob. It was fun working with you." He remarked as he twirled his earbuds. "Then this is ‘see you soon’?"

Hayama nodded.

Tsuna waved his hand at him before walking for the direction of the inn he was staying at. He was going to put his earbuds on when he heard his name being called out. He turned back to Hayama who was still on the spot he left.

"You're a great guy, Tsuna!" Hayama shouted to him. "I too had fun working with you! And call me Akira without any suffixes! It's unfair that I can call you in your name while you use my surname!"

He stared at Hayama's back in surprise before shaking his head, flushing a little. He should be immune to praises after almost getting it every single day from Gokudera. He should probably talk to Soma and pass him the news that he and his pair passed. The redhead had been bugging him of who his partner is. It won't hurt if he trolls his best friend for a bit, will it?

Tsuna made an 'ooff' sound when he felt someone jump on his back. He looked back to see Soma grinning at him. He shook his head, hoisted the redhead on his back by taking the other's back of the knees, and started to walk. His friend laughed and loosely looped his arms around the brunet's neck as they started their journey to their next restaurant.

That morning, the two decided that they will open their documents at the same time, just like what they did a week ago. Who knew they will be sent to the same place though? Soma went on laughing and started to persuade him to meet up by the train station. He gave in, not that he needed the persuasion since he wanted to see the other too.

"Not tired yet?" Soma asked after minutes of silence.

"Not yet." Tsuna responded as they go forth.

"It's good to see you again, Tsuna." The other genuinely remarked.

"Same here. How was your restaurant though?" He asked, curious of the redhead's last day since they talked more of the brunet's week with Akira.

"Our restaurant was really fun. And I had a good talk with Arato. She was really upset about what Hayama told her." The redhead quipped, sounding nonchalant even though his intuition picked up the worry.

"I hope you made her feel a little better." He voiced.

"Of course, I would. I got it from you." The redhead bragged.

He slapped the other's thigh. "Don't sell yourself short. It's natural for you to comfort others, Soma. I didn't do anything to amplify that or anything."

"I wonder..." Yukihira mumbled, putting his chin on top of the brunet's head. "I like your hair."

"I like yours too." He chuckled, a little surprised with what the other said. He wanted to probe on what Soma mumbled, but he let it go. "You did recommend me the shampoo I'm using."

"You still use that?" Soma asked, sounding surprised.

"Why won't I?" Tsuna questioned back as they stopped in front of the restaurant they'll get train at. "I like how it smells. Even Reborn liked it. It makes my hair soft too."

Soma hid his face on the brunet's shoulder and laughed. "You're amazing."

Tsuna shook his head fondly before letting go, so Soma can get off his back. He stretched his back, moved his upper body right to left. He looked at the redhead, who grimaced, when they heard a pop from his bones. He can't help laughing at that. Not that Soma hates hearing bones pop. The redhead even does it all the time. He just can't wrap up the idea of spinal cords popping into places.

He looked up to the restaurant they were assigned after. It's pretty simple with French doors and windows, and white paint with the shop's name on the top which was colored in red. Obviously, a two-storey building with the second floor painted with gray. It does give off the fancy feeling with all the green potted bushes on the side, enough to not obscure the view of the streets from the inside. It was a mixture of Japan and France with how it looks.

Seriously, Shinomiya went all out with his promise to reach greater heights by putting a branch in Japan. He's even the talk of the country and all over the newspapers and tabloids of food industry. The brunet thinks that anyone who were assigned to help their upperclassman is so lucky. Who won't think so? Shinomiya is a great chef, and to learn from him will be a privilege.

But who knew it will be them?

Tsuna focused on the door when it opened and the French chef stepped out. The brunet gave a small bow while Soma smiled cheekily at the chef who stared at them in shock.

"We'll be in your care, Shinomiya-sempai." The redhead greeted.

Tsuna bumped Soma's shoulder when he noticed the popping nerve on the French chef's forehead. "Soma, don't anger Shinomiya-sempai."

The redhead only snickered.

"Yukihira." Shinomiya nodded as he let go of the door and stood in front of them with his arms crossed.

"Nice to see you again, Sempai." He greeted with a small smile.

"And you are?" The chef asked, raising a brow at him.

Sawada's lips quirked a little higher in satisfaction. "Tsunayoshi Sawada, Sempai."

"He did some cutting and coloring, Sempai." Soma elaborated, putting a hand on the brunet, now noiret's head. "We hope you don't fire him on the spot just because his hair smells citrus or something."

"That was ages ago. And I won't do it on Sawada if it doesn't bother the food." Shinomiya retorted before giving them relaxed gazes. "Though I did say I won't accept anyone who didn't at least get to the finals of the Autumn Election as a stagiaire, I didn't expect that they'll send the two of you."

"I was really surprised too." Soma grinned, hand still on Tsuna's head.

The brunet wrinkled his nose. "I don't really know. I did reach the finals, but I didn't cook against the three of you."

"It's okay." The upperclassman stated before smirking at them. "Ah. I also told the School Affairs Division that I will kick out anyone useless."

Tsuna pursed his lips so he won't smile when he felt Soma's flames flaring in excitement. He couldn't hold it from forming when the chef thrusted cleaning supplies on the redhead's arms. He snickered when Soma shot him a playful glare as they followed the head-chef inside the building. Tsuna took the redhead's bag and put it away to the corner, before removing his jacket and let it drape on their bags.

He took some of the cleaning supplies and started to help the girls. He did introduce himself to the others before silently doing what was tasked for him to do. He discovered how scary Shinomiya was, far scarier than in the training camp. But the staffs were certainly a little chatty in regards of the sudden changes on the head chef's personality.

It was cute, honestly. To think that a simple casual match made the chef more considerate to his fellow chefs. He should text Megumi how amazing she is and praise Soma too. He'll forgo the questioning though. He'll problem that once he faces it. Besides, it's not only Yukihira who has the ability to make people feel amazing with just his words.

"Tsuna!" He turned to the redhead who called out for him after he put his wash cloth away. "Help me here!" Soma gestured on the steel ladder.

"Be there!" He replied as he goes over; dodging Lucie Hugo, the chef in charge of most meat dishes, and Gao Wei, the service manager, he was cleaning with. "Excuse me."

"Oh. Sure, Sawada-san." Wei nodded, pausing a little to give him way.

He gave a small smile. "Please, call me Tsuna."

The lady smiled back. "I'll do that. I'll pass it on to Lucie if you want."

He nodded before rushing to hold of the ladder when Soma started to climb. "You're going to be the death of me."

"Not like you didn't go free falling on me from the sky that one time." The redhead rebutted as he reached out to put a bulb on an empty socket.

"That's a different story." He pointed out.

Soma raised a brow at him before reaching out his hand. "Bulb."

"You're demanding." He teased while taking one of the bulbs from the box on the near table and handed it to the redhead.

"Only to you." The other playfully retorted, showing his tongue at him in a childish way before doing his task. "Anyway, Shinomiya-sempai-"

Tsuna listens to Soma interrogate their alumnus. He kept his presence minimum so Shinomiya will give the redhead his answer. Although the chef did spare him a glance, he only bowed his head and gave Soma the bulbs. Regardless, Shinomiya gave the answer Soma needed.

They spent more hours cleaning before they stopped to have a break. Tsuna went for the corner and sat on a seat. He watched the others gush over Shinomiya cooking for them. He would've been equally excited if he wasn't dead tired. He didn't get enough sleep last night and went off his bed by four to do his routine. In a sense, yeah. He's exhausted.

He didn't even register that the food was finished cooking and they were already feasting. All he knew was Soma tapped him out of his siesta and put a plate of pie in front of him. The redhead smiled at him in understanding before sitting next to him. Feeling a little refreshed from his small nap, he stretched a little and took the cutlery to have a lunch.

"How is it?" Soma eagerly asked him after he took a mouthful.

Tsuna blinked and swallowed. "It's good."

"Hmm..." The redhead hummed as he put a cupped his chin. "How many stars?"

The brunet looked down on the dish which is certainly a quiche if he remembered right how it looks from all the things Reborn made him make. "Probably three 'n a half? Why?"

"Shinomiya-sempai isn't satisfied with it." Soma whispered. "He said it's not yet enough, even though it's a great dish."

Tsuna hummed as he cut a piece. "It's understandable for him to do that because there are more ways for this to shine. Even you would recreate and revamp your curry risotto if given the chance."

Yellow eyes glinted in understanding. "Oh."

Tsuna got energized and helped with the chores again using the combined efforts of the food and nap. He was cleaning the windows with Chef Abel Blondin, the sous chef, when he got called out by Shinomiya. He excused himself from the chef and snappily went over the head chef who handed him a wash cloth. He blinked at the fabric before he started to clean the tables. He surveyed the whole place as he did his task. Wei is somewhere in the kitchen with Hugo while Soma is sweeping the floor once more. He peered at the clock which read five-thirty. Huh. They had been at this since morning.

"Are you looking for your specialty too, Sawada?" Tsuna eyed Shinomiya who asked him that. "Yukihira expects that he'll get it here."

"I don't know." He answered as he paused from his job. "I'm not really looking for specialty. I just want to get as many experiences as I can before I settle down."

"You're planning to settle down?" The chef queried, shocked.

Tsuna smiled a little as he remembered Reborn while continuing. "I don't have any plans right now other than impress someone with my cooking. I want to get praised by him and at least get eight stars from him."

Shinomiya didn't say anything for a sec. "So. you're not opening your own restaurant after you graduate?"

"Funny thing," He chuckled while going for the other table. Five more to go. "My Kaasan started to persuade me on opening my own restaurant. However, no. I'm not considering it."

"Why?"

"Great power comes great responsibilities." He quoted with a laugh, seeing how his upperclassman's jaw dropped. "Let's just say that I'm not ready to have your kind of responsibility, Shinomiya-sempai."

The chef closed his mouth and shook his head. "I'm not wondering how you and Yukihira become best friends. You're both weird."

"Should I say thank you, Sempai?" He snickered, causing the other to huff a chuckle.

It was eight when they finished cleaning everything, putting the finishing touches on the interior designs and had everything ready. While everyone was chattering about the pre-opening of the shop, he thought of what will be their dinner for the day.

He was musing when he felt his phone vibrate. He went behind Shinomiya, who was discussing things, and took a sneak peak of who texted him. It was Haya- well Akira, asking where was he assigned. He sent a quick reply before going out of hiding. Huh. It was unusual for Akira to become a little chatty. Maybe he got worried? Or in the mood to ask something?

He mentally shrugged. Maybe.

By the end of the day, the two of went for their designated inn with a list of instructions for tomorrow from Hugo. Tsuna cooked for the both of them before they retired for the night.

He was going to sleep by then when he received two messages. One was from Akira, who said he was assigned to an open restaurant. He replied a 'good luck' with a peace emoji before he went for the second message. He glanced at Soma to assure himself that the other is asleep, before he glanced down at the text with a worried frown.

'From: xxx-xxx-xxx

Subject: Greetings, Tsunayoshi-kun.

Message: I have news. I already told this to Reborn too. Iemitsu is meeting a man named Azami Nakiri. Does he ring a bell? Good night.

-Kawahira'

Tsuna fingered the buttons of the cook's coat he's wearing. He feels uncomfortable wearing it. It feels stuffy, but it's a required uniform. It reminds him of the white spell's uniform in the future. And it doesn't suit him at any least. He eyed Shinomiya, who was wearing a red scarf, while Blondin has blue, indicating that he's the sous chef. He never likes uniforms. Really.

While trying to make himself comfortable as possible, he stared at the list of dishes for the menu and the recipes. He skimmed them and listed everything in his head. An uncontrollable memorization that something he got from all the works he had to do in Tootsuki. (And his tutor.)

"Are you okay, Tsuna?" Wei, who was wearing an usherette's uniform, asked him when she noticed him fidgeting his upper uniform.

He gave a curt nod. "Just a little uncomfortable with the uniform."

"Ah. Don't you wear it in Tootsuki?" The lady queried curiously.

"I'm one of the students who doesn't. I'm more comfortable with my casual attire and waist apron. But it's okay. I don't think it will take me hours to adjust." He assured as he fixes his cuffs.

The lady smiled just as Hugo went in and attacked Soma with questions about the preparations they did this morning. "Good to hear."

Tsuna watched Soma follow Shinomiya by the door and peered at the main area. He eyed the others who have fallen quiet, causing tension in the air. He rolled his shoulders so he won't get affected, before beckoning his best friend to come to him when Soma went stiff with the atmosphere. He didn't miss this kind of thing. It reminds him of every battle he needed to face a year ago.

He took Soma's hand and rubbed soothing circles on the back of it. The redhead is obviously curious. They could even hear Hugo praying in French. It was a good thing though, that Reborn already warned him of how intense a restaurant kitchen atmosphere is when he asked once if the hitman had tried cooking (after Enma brought out the thought).

Tsuna thinks that Reborn did have the experience, but forgot about it after he made someone erase his memories to start fresh when he became an Arcobaleno. It's just the muscle memory moving. Even he couldn't stop his reflex whenever he's on the move.

Regardless, Tsuna expected this kind of atmosphere. Contrariwise far intense than the air in the prelims of the Election, it doesn't compare with the pressure he had experienced from his fights.

"What's happening?" The redhead whispered to him.

Tsuna smiled reassuringly. "This is a kitchen with French criteria, Soma. Just do your job and let's save each other from mistakes, yeah?"

Soma gave a grin. "Sure."

Both looked at the door when it opened and Shinomiya came in. "The customers have seated." He gave them firm glances. "Get ready."

"Oui Chef!" The three original staffs affirmed.

Trusting his intuition, Tsuna walked with Soma to get the plates needed. Once the plates were ready, not minding Shinomiya who chided the redhead after a single sound, they split. The brunet hustled around with the redhead, taking care of the minor works for the chefs who needed things.

He eyed Soma who was observing everything. He knew the redhead has to adjust a bit. He couldn't count himself in since he experienced this kind of situation in the first restaurant he was assigned. Even though he only spent three days in there while Akira took four days, it was still a pressure he experienced.

"Yukihira, don't fall behind." He heard Hugo advised from her post, while he was chopping an ingredient for Brondin. "Strain the Fumet de Poison on the double."

"Yes!" Soma responded and went on it.

He glanced at the redhead who was straining the Fumet de Poisson.

"And get me the Langoustine." The chef said again.

Before Soma can even fumble, Tsuna thrusted the tray of the fresh water-prawn that was beside him. "Go."

"Thanks, Tsuna." The redhead hurriedly expressed and rushed for the chef.

"The vegetables, Sawada!" Blondin ordered.

Tsuna immediately did what was asked as he heard Hugo ask Soma to do the diced pot herbs and the appetizer at once. He silently passed the vegetables to the chef before getting the ingredients for the diced pot herbs when Soma went for the appetizer.

Sometimes, Tsuna is so thankful of Reborn for pounding every cooking term in his head. If it wasn't for him, he'll probably be kicked out by now or be unhelpful for Soma.

"Yukihira!" Tsuna jolted a little just as he was about to finish mincing the ingredients for the mirepoix when Hugo shouted. "Where's the mirepoix?!"

Soma stood still.

"Yukihira, get started with the mirepoix." Shinomiya ordered just as the brunet put the container on Hugo's counter.

"It's done." He said, causing everyone to stop and look at him. He pointed a finger on the container. "Mirepoix is done."

"O-Oh." Hugo blinked before nodding. "Thanks Tsuna."

"Get on the Beignets, Sawada!" Blondin ordered from his stove.

He immediately nodded before going past Soma and patted the other's shoulder. "On it!"

Tsuna winced when Blondin chewed Soma while doing the shrimp Shinomiya ordered him to do. When he passed by Soma, who was going for his opposite, the redhead patted his back causing him to halt and look back. Yukihira winked at him, not an ooze of depression in his body and eyes. The brunet can't help smiling at that.

He doesn't need to worry after all.

Chapter Text

Chapter Thirty-Nine

Tsuna clicked his phone off and dropped himself on the small foam that can accommodate his size. He stared at the ceiling as he waited for Soma to get off from the shower.

Other than the fact that he has to problem who is Azami Nakiri and what is his relation to the director, Erina and Alice, he also has Soma to be worried about.

The first problem is already being taken cared off. Reborn assured him that they will take every information they could get about the man and tell him what his relation with Iemitsu. It was worrying since the tech group has to be discreet. They were under surveillance of the Vongola and CEDEF. His tutor had agreed to him. They need to clean up, and it will take awhile. He just hopes it won't be too late though.

And the second problem...

Tsuna craned his neck to see Soma walk in with a towel on his head. Yellow met tawny. The redhead took a step back with a comical expression on his face.

"Tsuna? Are you okay? Are you being exorcised or something?" Yukihira asked, worried.

"What are you talking about?" He asked as he went for his stomach to see the other.

"Don't crane your head like that." Soma chided as he sat on the couch. "You look like a ghost or something with how you made your head look."

Tsuna felt a cold shudder rock his body as he looked around in hast. "Don't you think..."

The redhead face palmed then caressed his forehead with a wince, as if what he did was an automatic response. "No. I don't think so, Tsuna."

He glared at the redhead who raised his hands. "That's your fault."

"Yes yes." The other responded before grinning and fell on the couch. "Thanks for saving my ass awhile ago, Tsuna."

"I told you, didn't I? Let's save each other from mistakes." He hummed as he eyed the other who was staring at the ceiling with his hands on his stomach. His friend looks somber. "You owe me though. You have to make it up for me."

Soma chuckled, looking alive for a moment before he went back to being dejected. "I did poorly today."

"I know."

"I want to do more."

"I know." Tsuna hummed and laid on his back with his eyes closed.

"Can you wait for me for ten minutes before we go down to the kitchen?" The redhead asked. "I'm gonna lament on my mistakes first before I learn anything new."

"Do you want me to teach you?" He softly offered.

Silence.

"Nah. I won't learn if you spoon feed me. Besides," Tsuna opened an eye to see the other beaming with mischief. "I want to bug Blondin-san. He seems to dislike me."

He laughed before he closed his eyes again. He did see the sous chef eyeing Soma with contemplation and thoughtfulness awhile ago. "Okay."

Tsuna blinked several times and stared at the menu of the last day. Nope. He is not getting delirious with all the early rising and late-night sleeps with Soma. He is seeing his Cheesy Croissant Casserole's recipe pasted on the wall.

"See something you like?" He looked back to see Shinomiya gazing at him with amusement and a slight smirk. "Thought I won't use it?"

"N-No." He uttered before turning his attention to the recipe. He extremely feels flattered. "I'm just surprised to see it hanging here, Sempai. You know how we almost argued about it."

"I remember." The chef hummed. "You'll be in charge of that. You did prepare the croissants, right?"

He nodded before blinking twice. "Huh. I didn't realize that it was for the casserole."

"You're being out of the world, Sawada." Shinomiya pointed out while patting the brunet's shoulder. "Go to your post already."

"Wait, Sempai." He said and jabbed a thumb on the recipe when the upperclassman turned back to him. "Why didn't you make any adjustments?"

"Why would I? It's good as it is." The alumnus remarked before going out.

A little confused, Tsuna did what was told to him. He stifled a yawn and rolled his shoulders. It's not the tension again. It's the lack of sleep. He could only take naps these past days. Not that he's complaining, he likes watching Soma go all visual in the night with the things he learns from Blondin and Hugo whenever he bugs them every afternoon. Tsuna usually uses the time for the questioning and teaching to take a nap upstairs, before going down whenever Shinomiya gets in. It was a rule.

He feels proud for Soma though. The redhead is seriously having fun with all the things he's learning. He has been talking about it whenever they're alone. He's also adjusting nicely in the kitchen unlike the first day.

And like the first day of pre-opening, once Shinomiya came in, they started to move. Tsuna kept up with their pace in his own sedate movements, since he feels unusually sluggish. It wasn't as hectic since he's getting used to it. He couldn't make any minor mistakes with his intuition guiding him and his reflex kicking in.

When Wei told them that most of the guests have gone, he was able to sigh in relief. He took a stool and sat there, leaning in unusual tiredness.

"You okay, Tsuna?" Hugo asked when she noticed him. "You look pale and exhausted."

Tsuna smiled reassuringly. "Just sleepy, Hugo-san. No need to worry. I'll be fine."

"Tsuna!" Soma shouted as he barged in the kitchen and stalked towards him with an excited smile. "Some alumni and Chapelle-sensei are here!"

"Oh. Okay. Wait up." He said as he got off and stretched before doing a shooing motion to the redhead. "Okay. Lead the way."

"I suddenly sympathize with Tsuna." Hugo smiled nervously to Wei, who nodded, as they watched the two go to the dining area.

"Tsuna has been awake with Yukihira since day one." Wei commented, remembering the brunet who was doing the last cleaning and peeling, while the redhead started to bombard Hugo and Blondin. "He's always on the side, you know, supporting us from the back."

"Didn't see him make mistakes." Blondin notices while crossing his arms. "He had saved us from a lot of delays and covered for Yukihira until he got a good grasp in the kitchen."

Wei giggled. "I heard him counting Yukihira's debts on him and teasing Yukihira about it."

"I'll make him a chocolate drink later." Blondin coughed before moving on as Tsuna, Soma, and Shinomiya went in.

"Here." Tsuna blinked and accepted the mug that was given to him by Blondin. "Drink it up."

"Thank you." He mumbled before he took a sip. The tension in his body lowered a bit at the homey feeling of the milk. "Ah. This feels nice."

"Just a typical chocolate milk, Sawada." The sous chef waved off.

He smiled to the chef. "Still. I like it, Blondin-san."

"Shinomiya-sempai," Tsuna looked up to Soma who called out to their head chef. "Tonight, you're doing the new dish competition right? I want to turn in a dish for it too!"

"Eh?!" Wei, who has plates in her hands, blurted in shock.

"Turn in for the competition?" Hugo repeated in surprise. "But didn't you have your hands full with supporting us every day?!"

Soma looked back to the two and nodded. "Well, I planned to turn a dish from the very first day." He fumbled with his towel on his wrist while giving them an excited serious glint. "This image I have created in my mind, I want to give it a form as soon as possible."

"Can you even make a decent dish?" Shinomiya questioned, challenging.

Tsuna glanced at Blondin, who was silent throughout, as he took a sip and Soma answered a 'yes'. He can feel the tension building up again.

"Come to think of it, this'll be the first time I taste one of your recipes." Then the chef smirked. "Fine. But don't blame me if the confidence you build up gets smashed to pieces, ok?"

"Yes." The redhead nodded.

"I'll let Yukihira participate in the new dish competition." Shinomiya eyed Wei. "After you serve the coffee, prepare your ingredients."

Tsuna sipped more of his chocolate milk as he basked himself with the tension. Good thing he's not assertive.

"You too, Sawada."

He jerked up, almost spilling the good drink. "E-Eh?"

"I know you can make a decent dish even in your tired state. If Yukihira can participate, you have to do it too." Shinomiya stated like it's a rule.

Uncertain tawny eyes went to Soma who nodded and grinned with challenge. "O-Okay. But I am not competing with you, Soma."

"Oh, you will." The redhead promised deviously.

Shinomiya left them after that. Tsuna handed the mug to his friend and waited for Soma to gulp the remaining half of the milk down. The redhead, like any other, stilled from the simple taste before he drank it out and gave it back to him. The brunet washed the mug first before he went for the pantry to prepare his ingredients. He doesn't have an image for his dish, but he'll just have to think of ways to make it eight stars so if ever it gets chosen, Reborn will know that it's his recipe once he gets a taste of it.

He was preparing the pans and pots he may need when he noticed Wei walking in, wearing a chef's white coat. He blinked and made an 'o' with his mouth in shock.

"Wei-san, you're participating too?" Soma asked when he noticed the lady too.

Wei turned back to the redhead and nodded. "Yes."

"I thought you're a service manager, Wei-san." Tsuna chimed in.

Soma nodded. "We never saw you cook too."

"Well, Wei was the one in charge of the meat dishes in the Shino's main restaurant until half a year ago." Hugo explained from her perch on the stoll, an arm hugging her knees to her chest while the other is formed in a fist and station on top of the caps.

"Oh." The two uttered.

"So that's how it was! Why did you change to customer service though, Wei-san?" Soma asked directly to the lady who smiled.

"We also hold this competition many times a month in France. But my dish has only been chosen once in two years." Wei replied before going serious as she took her knife. "I thought I couldn't continue like this. The reason why I became a service manager was because I thought something would become apparent to me while having direct contact with the customers. But I haven't stopped training as a cook for a single day, either."

Yellow and tawny looked at each other. Only once in two years... Harsh.

"Me too." Hugo seconded from her spot on the chair. "I didn't just pick up Wei's leftovers as the one in charge of the meat dishes. I need to prove it."

"That's just how serious we are about this new dish competition." Blondin stated and gazed at the two of them. "Do you have such resolve?"

"Either way, I won't be able to pass this stagiaire period if my dish isn't chosen. Besides, my resolve and all those things, I'll put them all in my dish." Soma answered with determination.

"How about you, Sawada?" Hugo questioned, blue eyes staring at him. "You seem relaxed with this."

He gave a tight smile. "I'm exhausted, but it doesn't mean I won't do my best. I have my own agenda for this. And like what Soma said, if my dish doesn't get chosen too, who knows what will be my grade."

They all looked at the door when it opened. There, Shinomiya stood at the threshold and surveyed them. "It's time. Begin cooking."

As he heard the others start chopping ingredients and put some skillets on their own stoves, Tsuna hummed to himself as he cooked with step-by-step procedure. Knowing them, Soma and him will be the last ones to be called.

It was nearing an hour when Hugo went out with her dish. Next was Wei then Blondin. Tsuna did some finishing touches when Soma got called. The redhead gave him a small cheeky salute before he went out. He stayed there, letting his meal simmer for a little while under a very low heat. When his intuition tickled him, he took a plate and put some of the food there, before he went for the door just as he got called.

It was like training camp all over again, except he's establishing a name to the shop against Soma and other professional chefs. So, he envisioned everything like in the training camp as he walked to their head chef who has his arms crossed. The upperclassman looked a little satisfied with Soma's dish though, not that he'll worry. With careful movement, he placed his dish in front of the chef and took a step back.

"And this is?" Shinomiya asked, a brow raised.

"Chicken fricassee." He simply answered.

"Woah." Soma interjected before standing beside him. "You did cook one for me, right?"

"It's the reason why I took a long time." He sighed and nodded to the kitchen. "It's in the pan. I put a lid on it so it won't get cold."

"Still doing it, I see." Sekimori smiled. "You never fail to share something, Sawada."

"It's probably in my blood to do so, Sekimori-sempai. Heedless, feel free to judge it, Shinomiya-sempai." He offered easily.

Tsuna watched their judge cut the chicken and put some sauce on it. He waited in bathed breath when the other put it on his mouth and chewed. The brunet can't help smiling a little when Shinomiya froze and looked down to his dish. It reminded him again of the training camp as their chef started to eat his meal regardless of how full he is. Like the first time Shinomiya took a taste of his casserole.

Damn. The sense of fulfillment feels nice in his heart.

"Waah! You didn't give me some!" Inui chastised Shinomiya in indignation.

"I can make you one, Inui-sempai." Tsuna offered.

"Can I have some too?" Hugo asked, curious of what he did to make their head chef continuously eat without saying anything.

"Sure." He promised.

"You sure know quality, Sawada." Shinomiya sighed after he took a drink from his water. "You amazed me once more."

"Well, it's just the sauce, Sempai." He grinned. "Although I won't want to do it if you didn't ask me to cook too."

"True. You didn't really need to since you already have your name on the menu." The chef agreed, causing an uproar.

"Wait, what?!" Soma exclaimed as he stared at the brunet who looked away to feign innocence. "Tsuna!" The redhead drawled.

"What?! How?!" Mizuhara questioned as she took the menu and flipped through it.

"It's the Cheezy Croissant Casserole, the world's greatest style." Shinomiya listed off with a smirk. "I took it from him during the training camp. The guests seem to like it too."

"That was the dish you were bragging about on the last day of the training camp." Donato pointed out. "So, this is the dish Sawada made that you wanted."

"Amazing." Chapelle-sensei praised causing him to blush. Damn. Teachers never see him in this kind of light.

"I-It's really nothing, Sensei." He waved off shyly.

"But really? The world's greatest?" Soma questioned, wiggling his brows at him with his arms crossed. "I didn't know it was dedicated to him."

"Of course, it is." He huffed, blush subsiding as the uproar simmered down. "I do not make my dish just for the satisfaction of other people. It's mainly for my family, and for him. I won't get settled if I don't receive a perfect score from him. Besides," He nodded at the empty plate. "I want that to be on the menu so when he suddenly gets hungry and decided to eat here, he'll know that's my dish because he has his title on it."

"The world's greatest?" Donato questioned, a little uncertain.

"Yup." He, then, smirked. "Not a self-proclaimed title, I assure you. He is the greatest."

He didn't notice how Shinomiya and Inui shared a look with what he said.

"Well, we're done with the testing." Shinomiya announced as he stood up. "Yukihira, come. I will teach you some things about your dish. And Sawada,"

He perked up. "Yes?"

"Go upstairs and rest. You deserve that after being slave-driven by Yukihira." The chef ordered.

Soma spluttered as Tsuna blinked before making a sheepish face. "Can I watch a little though? I want to get tips from you too."

Shinomiya stared at him, gauging, before nodding. "Sure."

Shinomiya peered at the direction where Sawada, who is helping Yukihira with the things he taught them, was standing. The noiret looks extremely exhausted, but too stubborn to leave his best friend alone. And even if Yukihira knows, he still let the other tag along for unknown reason. Amber eyes went to the pan that got washed by the same cook. The Chicken Fricassee got wiped out without any single ado. Even Chapelle-sensei ate some to have a taste of it.

The world's greatest.

When he saw that codename, he just knew who was the inspiration of that codename. He can vividly remember how this certain baby requested his presence after eating his food when he was still the old Shinomiya. He was praised for how magical his food was and was given four-'n-a-half stars. It was something he didn't really expect. But who knew that was Reborn, the world's greatest man? He wonders if the man still remembers him, and if the food he cooks still have the same number of stars.

He watched the noiret laugh when Yukihira said something with a silly face. When the kid asked him tips of how to choose wine for the dishes he will make, Shinomiya doesn't know what to say. The same thing when the kid asked him if he could stay and watch to learn from him. He had to force himself to speak to remove himself from the shock. Shinomiya prided himself as one of the top chefs; his achievements and restaurant are the evidences to that. But to be asked by the student of the greatest for cooking tips, he feels flattered. Because he knew that the teen will take up his lessons and will make something with the use of those knowledge to impress Reborn.

"You know what, you should really go upstairs." Yukihira chimed with a worried frown. "You look ready to fall. I don't want to see you again like that one time when you visited Takumi and Izami."

Sawada was about to say something when a yawn went out of his mouth.

"See! Go!" Yukihira exclaimed. "Wait up, Master! I'll just push Tsuna to the stairs!"

"I'm going. I'm going. No need to help me." The noiret placated as he went out of the chair and trudged for the stairs. "Don't bother Shinomiya-sempai that much, Soma."

"I'm not." The redhead pouted and followed Sawada.

"They seem closer." Sekimori observed as the two trainees who are bantering. "It's like they didn't fight in the training camp."

"Sawada had been helping Yukihira around my kitchen." He informed as he leaned on the counter. "He's more knowledgeable in French than he let on. Perks of having to speak the language."

"His tutor sure is sadistic." Donato related. "To cram as many languages as possible on Sawada for a year and teach him how to cook. That must be a lot of pressure."

"The world's greatest." Fuyumi mumbled, in deep thoughts. "Who might that be?"

"I think I know who it is." Their teacher reckoned, causing Shinomiya and Inui to glance at each other. "He was known to be a legend by time since he had been gone for years. I'm not sure if he had died since I was in my prime when I met him and I never heard of him fore then."

"Who is it?" Sekimori asked, intrigued.

"His name is Reborn." Chapelle-sensei revealed, eyes surveying them. "He is known to be the world's greatest and that's his pride. A jack-of-all-trades and master-of-all. A mathematician too. His palate can never be satisfied with mere seasoned food. He has standards too and classifies them with stars. The most he gave in my years was five. I heard he gave six, but that's of it."

"Then you think Sawada's tutor is that Reborn, Sensei?" Donato speculated. "But he should be old by now. Or like what you've said, died."

Silence.

"Don't tell me..." Fuyumi gasped, eyed wide. "He likes black, doesn't he? Black suit, black fedora and has this green lizard on his hat?"

"Yes." Their teacher nodded.

"Then he's that guy!" She confirmed with a snap of her fingers. "Some years ago, a baby called out for me from my kitchen and praised me for the dish I made. He looked like a baby but, he's so well-versed and he doesn't have this baby lisps. He's very respected by the locals in Italy. When he said he rates me four stars, a lot of them clapped and congratulated me. But I didn't know he was that Reborn."

"Oh. Are you talking about Reborn?" They all looked at Yukihira, who was curiously surveying them whilst walking for his previous spot. "According to Tsuna, he's growing nicely."

"So he did become a baby?" Shinomiya frowned.

"Yeah. Something about conned to drink this medicine some years ago. It has no antidote so he stayed like that for a long time. But a year and a month ago, Tsuna was able to give them an idea of how to cure him, so he has been growing since then. And fast too. Estimated age of twelve to thirteen by now." The redhead relied with a fond look on his face.

"Have you met him?" Donato asked, fascinated of how such man still exists.

"Not personally. He's pretty cool. If given time, he'll visit Tsuna in Tootsuki. He once told me that he doesn't like being away from Tsuna cause he's the tutor and he has a lot to teach his student." Yukihira took the handle of the pan he was using for practice. "He didn't let on, but he'll be expecting a lot to our school once he comes."

"Then the students should be ready by then." Chapelle-sensei nodded with conviction, causing the alumni to sweat drop.

"Anyways, let's go back to what I was correcting." Shinomiya motioned as he pushed himself away from the counter. The others backed away once more.

"Yosh!" The redhead saluted and was about to watch again when Shinomiya saw him blink and turn back to him. "Naa, Master."

He cleared his throat, not used with the title, before raising a brow. "What?"

"Did Tsuna's dish tonight get on the menu?" Yellow eyes gazed intensely at him. "I want to know."

"And if it didn't?" He questioned back.

The redhead's brow furrowed a little. "Don't you think his dish is worth it? I mean it has this essence of French and it's pretty smooth too."

"What would you feel if I pick his and not yours?"

"I'll be dumped." He rose his brows to Yukihira, who answered without a beat with an ironic proud smile. "But believe it or not, before I lost to Hayama, I already accepted the fact that Tsuna's a better chef than me. Although he's always calm and collected and sometimes too laid back, I know he always has this one goal. He always wants to impress Reborn. Despite saying it's for his family, it's always Reborn." He watched as the redhead clench his hands with a determined look. Something Shinomiya admired because it was that look that challenged him into a Shokugeki. "I lack this something he has. Until I know what it is, we won't be able to have a showdown. By that time too, Tsuna would have refined his skills. And we'll be equal at some sort and the battle will be fair."

"Then you should remember all the things I will tell you." He chimed as he turned the fire on. "Sawada has some skills you don't have. It might be a cheat, but it will even you two a little."

Yukihira's beam was as bright as Sawada's. Shinomiya opted not to dwell on it. He will never understand how the two's friendship works.

Chapter Text

Chapter Forty

(Day Fifteen)

(Early Morning)

'To: Red Pepper (Soma)

Subject: (none)

Message: Where did you get assigned?

*attached photo of Tootsuki Hotel*

I'm back in here.'

'From: Red Pepper (Soma)

Subject: Hehe.

Message: Woah. Really? I'm in this restaurant.

*attached photo of a Western restaurant*

Cool right?'

'To: Red Pepper (Soma)

Subject: (none)

Message: That's some cool restaurant. How's the staffs? Treating you well?'

'From: Red Pepper (Soma)

Subject: Hehe

Message: Yeah. They're awesome. How about you there?'

'To: Red Pepper (Soma)

Subject: (none)

Message: Doujima-sempai is alright. Still the same. About to attend an orientation of what I'm going to do. Ttyl.'

'From: Red Pepper (Soma)

Subject: Bye bye

Message: M(essage)m(e)l(ater).'

(Late Evening)

'To: Red Pepper (Soma)

Subject: (none)

Message: *attached photo of Tsuna in security guard uniform*'

'To: Red Pepper (Soma)

Subject: (none)

Message: Ate dinner yet?'

'From: Red Pepper (Soma)

Subject: Woah!

Message: Just done.'

'From: Red Pepper (Soma)

Subject: Woah!

Message: What's with the uniform?'

'To: Red Pepper (Soma)

Subject: (none)

Message: They assigned me to be a security guard for today.'

'To: Red Pepper (Soma)

Subject: (none)

Message: Tomorrow, I'll be one of the clean-up crew.'

'From: Red Pepper (Soma)

Subject: Hehe

Message: Tough. You sound exhausted. Sleepy?'

'To: Red Pepper (Soma)

Subject: (none)

Message: Yeah. Sorry.'

'From: Red Pepper (Soma)

Subject: Hehe

Message: It's fine. Don't forget your milk tomorrow.'

'To: Red Pepper (Soma)

Subject: (none)

Message: Your breakfast too.'

'From: Red Pepper (Soma)

Subject: Roger!

Message: Night Tsuna. Sweet dreams.'

'To: Red Pepper (Soma)

Subject: (none)

Message: Likewise. Keep safe for me.'

(Day Seventeen)

(Early Afternoon)

'From: Red Pepper (Soma)

Subject: Hehe

Message: Tsuna?'

'To: Red Pepper (Soma)

Subject: (none)

Message: Yes, Soma? Is there a problem?'

'From: Red Pepper (Soma)

Subject: Hehe

Message: Just checking.'

'To: Red Pepper (Soma)

Subject: (none)

Message: Really now.'

'From: Red Pepper (Soma)

Subject: (none)

Message: Just thinking.'

'From: Red Pepper (Soma)

Subject: (none)

Message: I miss your food. Hahaha!'

'From: Red Pepper (Soma)

Subject: Food!

Message: You're amazing!

*attached photo of customized bento with 'eat' written in nori*

Thank you, Tsuna.'

'To: Red Pepper (Soma)

Subject: (none)

Message: Tell me if you want more. I'll cook for you.'

(Late Evening)

'To: Red Pepper (Soma)

Subject: (none)

Message: Good Night, Soma. Sweet dreams.'

(Day Nineteen)

(Early Morning)

'From: Red Pepper (Soma)

Subject: Japanese and Italian

Message: What brought this up?'

'To: Red Pepper (Soma

Subject: (none)

Message: Something I turned in last night. That's your share.'

(Day Twenty)

(Early Evening)

'To: Red Pepper (Soma)

Subject: (none)

Message: You crackhead.

*attached photo of an intricate western dish in a plastic container*'

'From: Red Pepper (Soma)

Subject: Surprise!

Message: It's a dish I turned in today.'

'To: Red Pepper (Soma)

Subject: (none)

Message: I like it. Thank you.'

'From: Red Pepper (Soma)

Subject: Hehe

Message: Glad you like it, Tsuna.'

(Day Twenty-Four)

(Mid Afternoon)

'To: Red Pepper (Soma)

Subject: (none)

Message: So I was sent to do some errand awhile ago.'

'To: Red Pepper (Soma)

Subject: (none)

Message: I saw someone with a red hair and yellow eyes.'

'From: Red Pepper (Soma)

Subject: What?!

Message: You saw me?!'

'From: Red Pepper (Soma)

Subject: (none)

Message: Where are you?!'

'To: Red Pepper (Soma)

Subject: Secret Agent

Message: Just somewhere there,'

'To: Red Pepper (Soma)

Subject: (none)

Message: Over there.'

'From: Red Pepper (Soma)

Subject: Aww

Message: That's so not fair.'

'To: Red Pepper (Soma)

Subject: (none)

Message: You'll live.'

'From: Red Pepper (Soma)

Subject: Tsuna!

Message: So unfair.'

(Day Twenty-Six)

(Mid-Morning)

'From: Red Pepper (Soma)

Subject: Secret Agent

Message: So I was cleaning the table near the window of the shop.'

'From: Red Pepper (Soma)

Subject: Secret Agent

Message: And I saw this guy with black hair and tawny eyes running with a delivery container.'

'From: Red Pepper (Soma)

Subject: Secret Agent

Message: I should've tackled you.'

'To: Red Pepper (Soma)

Subject: (none)

Message: Don't.'

'To: Red Pepper (Soma)

Subject: (none)

Message: I don't want a scrape.'

'From: Red Pepper (Soma)

Subject: Secret Agent

Message: Too late.'

(Early Afternoon)

'To: Red Pepper (Soma)

Subject: My elbows and back hurts!

Message: I'm so gonna tackle you next time I see you.'

'From: Red Pepper (Soma)

Subject: Success!

Message: You won't!'

(Day Twenty-Nine)

(Early Overnight)

'To: Red Pepper (Soma)

Subject: (none)

Message: Soma.'

'To: Red Pepper (Soma)

Subject: (none)

Message: Awake?'

'From: Red Pepper (Soma)

Subject: Good Mornight.

Message: I am now. What's up?'

'To: Red Pepper (Soma)

Subject: (none)

Message: I wanna check on you.'

'From: Red Pepper (Soma)

Subject: (none)

Message: Nightmare?'

'To: Red Pepper (Soma)

Subject: (none)

Message: Probably.'

'To: Red Pepper (Soma)

Subject: (none)

Message: Can't remember.'

'To: Red Pepper (Soma)

Subject: (none)

Message: So I checked on you.'

'From: Red Pepper (Soma)

Subject: (none)

Message: I'm okay.'

'From: Red Pepper (Soma)

Subject: (none)

Message: Breathing.'

'To: Red Pepper (Soma)

Subject: (none)

Message: Yeah.'

'To: Red Pepper (Soma)

Subject: (none)

Message: Thanks.'

'To: Red Pepper (Soma)

Subject: (none)

Message: Sorry too for waking you up.'

'From: Red Pepper (Soma)

Subject: (none)

Message: Say,'

'From: Red Pepper (Soma)

Subject: (none)

Message: why don't we meet up tomorrow? Buy a bicycle or something?'

'From: Red Pepper (Soma)

Subject: (none)

Message: Hold up. I'm gonna call.'

Chapter Text

Chapter Forty-One

Tsuna put his bag away before slumping on the bed. He sighed, feeling all the excitement in his body fade. When he heard the 'ping' of his phone, he turned it up to see Reborn's reply before snickering.

'From: Reborn

Subject: Chaos.

Message: Should I be proud that you're driving a motor now without your license?'

'To: Reborn

Subject: We arrived!

Message: Bail me out if I get in jail.'

'From: Reborn

Subject: Chaos.

Message: Sure.'

He snickered at the response.

They just arrived in the Polar Star dorm. But before they got back, the two of them bought a scooter with the combined powers of their money. They had been snickering since they sent a selfie to their dad and Reborn. Although they knew Jouichiro won't be able to reply, at least they updated him of what they had bought. Reborn, on the other hand...

"Tsuna!" He moved his eyes to see Soma barging in with an excited grin. "Come on! I'm taking on some Shokugeki! Watch me beat them all up!"

"I don't think I'll be able to eat all my shares in one go, Soma." He stood up and pocketed his phone as he followed the redhead to the hallway.

"You can't?" Soma gasped with a fake scandalous expression. "With that big stomach of yours?"

"Shut up." He can't help chuckling. The notion was true. He has a big stomach. "Don't get flustered if I asked some seconds."

"Since when did I get startled with that?" The redhead jabbed with a smile of his own.

The two kept on teasing each other about Tsuna's appetite and Soma's flustered moments around the brunet. They were laughing when they got to the lobby, where the Polar Star Maria was waiting for them to show up.

"You've been here, Sawada?" Fumio commented as her brows raised in surprise. "I didn't see you come in."

"I went in first before Soma." He smiled before giving a respectful bow to the old lady. "We're home, Fumio-san."

The redhead did the same. "We're home, Fumio-san."

"Oh shush! Still the same, you boys." The lady chided jokingly, making the two teens laugh. "Your hair is turning back to their colors, Sawada. Want me to trim the black ones?"

Tsuna ran a hand on his hair, humming in thoughts, before glancing at his friend's way. "What do you think?"

"Maybe stick with it a little longer? It looks weird to see a hair with black as a highlights." Soma opined. The brunet can't help himself from giving a deadpan as Fumio laughed. It caused the redhead to raise his hands in the air. "You asked for my opinion."

"I'll probably stick to it for awhile." He said to the lady who nodded. "But I'll be asking for your assistance one of these days for it, Fumio-san. Thank you in advance."

"No problem. Anyway, go. Yukihira's opponent is waiting." She bid.

"Right!" The two chorused before moving for the door.

"We'll be back before you know it, Fumio-san!" Soma bid with a wave of his hand; Tsuna did the same with a smile.

"Ah, Sawada!" Tsuna looked back to Fumio who called out for him again. The Polar Star Maria grinned mischievously. "You also have challenge letters, by the way. It will be rude to avoid them again."

The brunet can't help the grimace from forming on his lips before nodding. "Thanks. I'll keep that in mind."

"Don't worry. I'll remind him." Yukihira assured to their dorm mother, who shooed them away after.

Tsuna found himself torn between accepting the challenges or not. He admits that he's different now. More confident, competent, and less clumsy. The past him would've been so boggled with all the changes. But, that's the thing. He didn't change entirely. There's still the Dame-Tsuna inside him. The cowardice, the uncertainty, and the insecurities. Yes, he is confident with his dishes, but he's not that good. He lacks the refinements of techniques, and it will take time for that to be polished.

Looking up from his spot, he watched as Soma moved around his station to cook against his fourth opponent. The first three already lost, and he already ate his shares. (Causing another bout of teasing.) Their dormmates have arrived too, shocked that Soma already accepted a lot of Shokugekis and tried to provoke more students to challenge him.

The brunet propped an elbow on his knee and let his chin rest on his palm as he thinks of things, all while still keeping his eyes on the redhead. On his last day as a trainee, a woman from the stagiaire committee told him that he passed in all restaurants he was assigned. Although he was happy, he can't help feeling a little unbelieving with how far he reached. No wonder he experienced a nightmare on that night.

He dreamed of losing Soma, being taken away from the things he loves, and get shackled in a dark place. It felt so painful for him to experience that. To see Soma shouting for him as he gets dragged away. There was no salvation. All he could do was just sit there quietly as if that was his end. Even at that moment, he can't help shuddering whenever he remembered that feeling, heedless of how vague the dream is in his mind.

"You okay, Tsuna?" He snapped out of reverie and stared at Soma who's eyeing him with furrowed brows. "You look like you've seen a ghost."

"If I don't sleep well tonight, I'm gonna blame you." He threatened before taking the plate from the redhead's hand. "Congrats winning another Shokugeki."

"Don't divert the subject." The redhead admonished.

"But you're needed there already." He pointed out as he glanced at the next challenger. "You can't keep him waiting."

"He can wait. Tell me what's wrong." Soma persisted.

Tsuna looked down to the plate on his hands, contemplating whether to tell the truth or not.

"You're not a good liar, Tsuna." He winced at that fact. "Tell me."

"I'm just thinking of the nightmare I had last night." He shrugged as he took the fork on the side of the plate. "And whether to accept the Shokugekis."

"What was your dream about?" The redhead queried. He doesn't know what kind of expression did he make in front Soma to make the latter back away. "Okay. I'll ask about it later. When you're ready."

"Maybe next time." He corrected with a smile. "Go now." Soma reluctantly turned around. Tsuna was about to put some food on his mouth when the redhead turned back to him.

"I know I don't have rights to dictate what you must do and don't, Tsuna." Yukihira said a calm voice, yellow eyes staring at him directly to his own. "But I think you should remember about your resolve. Of why you're here and why you're still here. I mean, that will be one of the things Reborn will tell you,  right?"

Sawada gawked at the redhead who rubbed his nape with a hand, eyes looking away as red crept to his cheeks.

"Uh... That's all." Soma uttered hurriedly before turning around to walk for his station.

Tsuna shut his mouth, mind running and processing his best friend's words. He blinked and opened his mouth to call out the other's name. "Soma!"

The redhead looked back after halting. "Ha?"

"Thank you." He expressed with sincerity and gratefulness.

Tsuna chuckled when Soma blushed redder, before turning around to continue his journey to his station. The brunet murmured 'red pepper' under his breath and started to eat more, watching the redhead smirk at his fifth opponent of the day. He should probably cook something special to Soma after they get back to the dorm. A thank you gift. Then message Reborn about his nightmare.

He just hopes his tutor doesn't get mad. Reborn will scold him again for not saying things again, unless urged. It's not like he's keeping secrets from his tutor. Heck, he won't even dream of doing so, after Reborn threatened him while cutting his hair. Reborn and any sharp object are not a good combination.

(He always wondered if Reborn can kill someone with anything useless, like a plastic container or a spoon. Even a paper.)

(Wait. Never mind.)