Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

The school bell rang to signal the end of the school day, classroom doors opening to give way to excited students eager to spend the weekend.

Yes, it was a glorious Friday that had everyone—teachers and students alike—in a good mood.

In one classroom there stood a certain blond boy by the teacher’s table, shuffling papers and muttering to himself. He still needed to arrange a few things before going home. Two smart knocks on the open door made him turn towards it, a small smile playing on his lips as he saw his housemate.

“Killua what are you doing here?”

Killua Zoldyck—white-haired teen five years his junior with devilish good looks and a knack for mischief—stood leaning on the doorway with one of the straps of his bag casually slung over his shoulder, signature smirk in place. His white polo uniform was already untucked from his black slacks, hands inside the pockets. Kurapika noted quietly the school blazer was missing from his person.

“It’s Friday, Kurapika. Come on, we both know your Council duties can wait at least till Monday. Gon and I were planning on meeting up with Ossan since he’s not doing anything today. If you bail out we won’t be complete!”

Kurapika rolled his eyes, a fond smile on his lips. He went towards his school bag and packed the papers inside.

“All right you’ve got a point. Where’s Gon anyway?”

They both went out the classroom carrying their respective bags. Kurapika looked around for any sign of his green-haired friend, Killua unwrapping a lollipop and handing Kurapika a candy which he took with a hum of thanks.

“He’s already waiting outside for Leorio. The two of us are the only ones missing.”

They reached the school campus, children with untucked uniforms running around and squealing in joy. As the Student Council President Kurapika had the urge to tell them off both for desecrating the school uniform and running inside the campus. But he figured he could give the kids some slack and turn a blind eye. It was Friday after all. Would he really want to ruin their day by reprimanding them for something so trivial? Besides, it was after school hours so technically he wasn’t on duty.

Gon Freecss waved them over with a wide smile as always, right hand outstretched and necktie loose. His bag was on the ground by him as he jumped in joy. Killua frowned at the excessive waving his best friend was doing but Kurapika knew he really didn’t mind Gon doing that. It was what made Gon… Gon.

“Ahhh Killua Kurapika you made it!”

He ran over to them with a little skip, screeching to a stop before them and still smiling wide.

“Where’s that old man and his beat-up junkyard of a car?” Killua asked, squinting and looking around.

“He said he’ll be here any moment. Killua mitte mitte I saw a bug and I need to show you!”

Without another word, Gon whisked Killua away, leaving Kurapika to wait for the eldest of the four of them. Leorio had achieved his dream of becoming a doctor and so was busy most of the time. Today must have been a free day for him as well. Kurapika initially planned to go home, work on some assignments, and plan for an upcoming school event but Killua had a point in saying he should at least relax while he can.

Someone from behind bumped into him, Kurapika tipping forwards but catching himself in time by placing a foot in front. He turned toward the person, his eyes widening.

“Ah gomenasai! I wasn’t looking where I was going,” she said, bowing profusely.

Kurapika turned to fully face the female and smile politely.

“It’s no problem. I was lost in thought too; forgive me.”

She raised her head and smiled sheepishly, Kurapika immediately recognizing her as Neon Nostrade, rich heiress and daughter of Light Nostrade who was a successful businessman. She had blue hair and eyes and a rather petite figure, her height just inches shorter than him. He knew she was in his grade level and was more often than not idolized by the younger schoolkids. She was in the gray blazer uniform, white polo shirt underneath with a red bow below the collar. Her checkered red skirt swished about her, black knee-high socks and outdoor shoes finishing off the outfit.

“Krapuka, right?” she asked, pointing a manicured finger at him. He raised a brow in question. “Student Council President?”

“Kurapika, actually,” he corrected gently.

Neon’s mouth fell open and she nodded, bowing once again.

“Right. Gomen, my mistake.”

“No it’s fine,” he said, waving a hand. “I know I have an unusual name so it’s pretty common people mispronounce it.”

Neon laughed slightly.

“Still, doesn’t excuse I mispronounced it. I’ll do better to remember your name.” She seemed to see something beyond him, eyes lighting up. She turned to Kurapika once more. “I gotta go now. I’ll see you around!”

She rounded him and ran forward. Kurapika watched her approach a black limo, a man with noticeable tattoos under his eyes already waiting by the open door.

Kurapika watched a moment more, eyes widening once a horde of boys and a few girls went over to Neon, the girl waving at them cheerily and stopping for some small talk no matter how much the conversations seemed to overlap. Everyone was chattering over each other but Neon seemed to take it in stride, nodding with her expression one of interest and amicability. Kurapika was starting to consider going over to halt them but the man with tattoos and black long-sleeved sweater stepped over to say something, other kids running away fearfully while some bowed and scurried off.

Then his face softened once he turned eyes to Neon, who pouted but laughed and patted his arm, walking toward the open door of the limo. She slipped inside the vehicle, the man closing the door and giving Kurapika a glance before he went to the driver’s side and drove away.

Kurapika heard a sharp whistle, head whipping toward Killua who followed his line of sight. The Zoldyck kid had his hands behind his head, a mischievous glint in his blue eyes. Kurapika unconsciously braced himself for what he had to say.

“That was one hot gal. Neon Nostrade, right? She’s in your batch?”

“Yes I believe so,” answered Kurapika, somehow unable to tear his gaze away from the limo. With some difficulty, he looked to Killua, his lips upturned in his usual smirk. “Why, do you know her?”

“Her ol’ man runs a successful business and he usually claims it’s because of his daughter.”

Kurapika frowned in confusion.

“How does Neon contribute to his success?”

Killua shrugged. “Your guess is as good as mine, Kura. Also, she’s kinda well-known in the school for typical reasons: cute, pretty, rich, a little air-headed, and easy to talk to.”

Kurapika merely hummed in thought. Killua meanwhile turned his back to him and continued, “But hey, Leorio’s here we better get outta here.”

“Right.” Kurapika hitched his bag higher on his shoulder and followed the younger boy, seeing Gon who was on top of Leorio’s shoulders. The two exchanged greetings, rushed conversations tumbling through their lips.

“Leorio how was work? Did you do any surgeries today? Huh? Tell me tell me!” Gon excitedly said, tapping Leorio’s shoulders.

“Hey yeah work was great! Nah, today’s a free day like I said! The four of us are gonna party like men and pass out after! Woo-hoo!” Leorio did a rock sign and laughed.

Killua grinned excitedly. “Waah I can’t wait, Ossan.”

A prominent vein throbbed in Leorio’s temple as he sneered at Killua, who was in the midst of slinging the straps of Gon’s bag on his unoccupied shoulder.

“Stubborn kid. Told ya I’m younger than I look.”

“But you’re in your twenties,” Kurapika said as he and the others walked ahead, away from campus. “So in a way, Killua has a point.”

Leorio frowned at Kurapika, who smiled innocently.

“Really, whose side are you on, Kurapika?”

Kurapika shrugged but shared a look with Killua, who winked playfully. The blond turned back to Leorio.

“Depends on what you think. Anyway, what’s first on the agenda for a Friday night out?”

“Arcade!” Gon yelled, pumping his fists in the air. “Then after, let’s get dinner and stroll around for a bit.”

Killua nodded, hoisting Gon’s bag higher on his other shoulder.

“Hey sounds like a plan.”

“Ooh I know a good place nearby for dinner. But first stop: arcade!” Leorio yelled, the three boys cheering and running around, Gon bouncing on Leorio’s shoulders as the older boy held tight on his friend’s ankles so he wouldn’t fall off.

Kurapika took one glance at the three and smiled to himself. Sometimes he couldn’t help but think he found people worth being around with and keeping.

Chapter Text

As he made himself morning coffee, he heard a sluggish pair of feet climbing down the stairs.

“Coffee will only stunt your growth, Kurapika,” Killua said sleepily, reaching for a box of cereal and grabbing a spoon and bowl. “You might wanna rethink your drinks.”

“Thanks but I’ve resigned myself to the fact this might be my height from here on out,” Kurapika said, stirring a spoon inside his steaming cup of coffee. He eyed his housemate’s wrinkled clothes and deep bags under his eyes and raised a brow. “You didn’t sleep when I told you to, did you?”

Killua grinned sleepily and shoved a spoonful of cereal in his mouth.

“Won’t even deny it. And plus, it was Gon. The guy’s got energy to last him for about three decades.”

Kurapika couldn’t argue with that. He and Killua had been housemates for about a year already and he was already a constant fixture in most of his days. The reason he took him in was because Killua’s family had been abusive towards the boy and he left in search of a place to stay and settle down. The four of them had already been friends then but Gon couldn’t take him in since his house was too far away. Leorio had different sleeping schedules and he wasn’t home most of the time because of his duties so he also wasn’t available. Kurapika had offered his living space since he had a pretty decent house not too far from school and reasonable working hours, being a student and part-time worker in a small coffee shop. He was also able to acquire an intact house with stable connections and foundations as it was written in the will of his late family, who was killed brutally. He couldn’t remember much details though, memory foggy. The additional income was something he had to work for as he refused to be a burden to anyone and wanted to achieve these things himself.

Seeing Kurapika’s house and learning of his schedule, Killua had no problem and so agreed to stay, even promising to work off for his share of the house. Kurapika at first insisted it wasn’t necessary but Killua was stubborn and managed to hook Gon into the whole thing, the two boys coming up with plans so Killua wouldn’t be labeled as a freeloader. Kurapika begrudgingly acquiesced to their request and accepted Killua’s help and money to pay rent.

In more ways than one, Kurapika often doted on Killua and looked after him. In hindsight, he knew he shouldn’t have to worry about the white-haired boy since Killua had proven on more than one occasion he was capable of defending and looking after himself but still, he was a twelve-year-old boy. Kurapika couldn’t help but watch over him, ask about his homework and if he had caused trouble lately. Killua was like that—either he found trouble or trouble found him but usually it was the latter. Killua was blunt and honest most of the time and Kurapika had been around him long enough to know if he was lying or keeping some of the truth from him.

Sure, they hadn’t been that close since the beginning but it seemed living under one roof seemed to help matters. If Killua wanted to discuss something and couldn’t be too sure on Gon, he turned to Kurapika for insight. Kurapika actually did the same thing—he would share some of his troubles to the young teen and surprisingly, Killua had good advice for him. They also had easy camaraderie and could almost always read each other’s thoughts.

Gon and Killua would of course remain inseparable while Kurapika would maintain close ties with Leorio but the relationship Kurapika shared with Killua was strange, which he liked and welcomed; he guessed it was one of the unique things in his and Killua’s friendship, if one could call it so.

Kurapika checked his watch.

“Unfortunately while you and Gon have the weekend to enjoy, I’ve still got things to take care of.”

Killua rolled his eyes.

“Sheesh couldn’t you take a break for even one day?”

“I did that yesterday.”

He was referring to the guys’ night out after school in which they played in the arcade and had dinner together, even stretching their time together to take a stroll in the park.

Killua gave him a flat stare.

“That was half day. I’m talking about a real twenty-four hours to yourself, Kura. If you don’t get enough sleep you’re a literal zombie. If you’re able to get your disgusting morning coffee you’re half-awake. If you get your schedule all straight and organized it’s like… the time you start to feel more awake and yourself. Seriously, I’m better off than you even with all my late nights and disrupted sleep schedule."

Kurapika sipped his coffee and hummed.

“I’ll think about it. But for now, I’ll have to stop by the school to grab a few papers for the book fair. You’ll come support it, right?”

“Oh sure Gon and I will check it out. I might even bribe Zushi to buy a book.”

A devilish smirk made itself known on Killua’s lips, the blond shaking his head as he downed his cup and placed it on the sink.

“Don’t. Even if you ask nicely, I’m sure Zushi will agree to buy.” He headed for the stairs. “And if you need to go out of the house, make sure everything’s locked and you have a copy of the house keys. Also—”

“—Make sure my phone is charged so we can keep in touch yeah, yeah. I’m not a baby Kurapika.” Despite him saying this, Killua didn’t look too annoyed.

“I know,” sighed Kurapika. “But you know I tend to excessively worry.”

“Yeah. And I’ll keep the promise. Now go do your stupid Council things.”

Laughing, Kurapika went up the stairs to prepare for the day. When he was fully bathed and properly clothed, he went out the house and jogged over to the school campus. It was eerily bare save for a few janitors, whom he greeted as he passed by to reach the Council Office where they hold meetings and discuss issues with his fellow members. After rifling through a few files and finding what he wanted, he was out of the building checking the materials needed.

Hmm… so it seems he had to do a little shopping. He entered a mall and went straight to a shop, checking for cardboards and markers to draw with. He spent a good hour in the shop searching for all stationery things he didn’t notice a girl in front of him as he was walking to the check-out counter.

They bumped and Kurapika immediately apologized, stopping once he saw who was in front of him.

“Neon,” he uttered, the girl also halting at her name. Kurapika couldn’t help the amused smile playing on his lips. “We meet again,” he said conversationally.

A smile formed on Neon Nostrade’s lips and she giggled, nodding.

“Yeah. We need to stop meeting like this, Kurapika. We always bump into each other.”

A soft chuckle flitted past his lips, internally agreeing. It wasn’t that he and Neon just now knew about the other’s existence. After all, he saw her name in school records and he seemed popular enough to be recognized as the Council President. They never interacted before, and he hadn’t found any reason to reach out to her.

“What are you doing? And why are you wearing a wig?”

Kurapika had now noticed the curly brown wig covering her blue locks, dark sunglasses perched on her nose to block her eyes. Neon looked down at herself, as if just realizing she donned unusual wear. She giggled nervously and ran a hand over the curly locks.

“I uh… kinda escaped my bodyguards after going to the washroom.”

Kurapika’s eyes widened and he uttered, “You what—”

“SHH!” Neon was quick to cover his mouth, looking over her shoulder and sighing in relief when no one approached them to take her away. “Listen, I couldn’t do anything since my bodyguards were always on the lookout. Right now is like the first time I feel kinda free and able to breathe.”

Kurapika’s brows furrowed in thought, mind analyzing Neon’s words.

“Would I be of any assistance?” he asked, wanting to help.

Neon seemed surprised by the offer but bounced on the balls of her feet and giggled, covering her mouth. Like this, Kurapika was reminded of a small child ready to unwrap a Christmas present.

“Waahh you’ll help me escape?” She surged forward to cage him in a tight embrace, Kurapika losing a breath and quickly tapping Neon’s shoulder in an attempt to get her attention. She let go and didn’t seem to notice his near suffocation, looking around once more and pursing her lips. “Let’s get outta here. I know a good coffee shop not too far. You in?”

“Let me just pay for my—”

“Eek no time they’re coming!” Neon hastily grabbed Kurapika’s wrist and huddled behind a few large boxes crowding in the corner, Kurapika having no choice but to dump all the things he had compiled and mourning about it for a second. He did snap to attention though and saw the same tattooed man walking by, eyes appearing to be lazy but Kurapika knew he was keeping an eye out for the girl.

Neon whimpered, lower lip wobbling. Kurapika saw a few books stacked against each other, having an idea and jerking his foot out to cause a mess. The sound made most of the people turn towards it, including the bodyguard. Kurapika saw this as his chance and took Neon’s wrist, both of them darting out of the shop and into the mall.

Neon squealed in glee but Kurapika motioned for her to keep quiet, looking back to see if they were being followed. He led her towards an escalator going down, heart hammering in his chest both in fear and excitement and the fact he’d never felt this exhilarated before. Neon seemed to be the same way, giggling and smiling. An excited twinkle in her eye made her look more attractive, Kurapika clearing his throat and letting go of her wrist. They both simultaneously stepped away from each other as if electrocuted.

Neon cleared her throat and turned to the back, seeing no sign of any familiar face. All of the people were engrossed in their own worlds, either focusing on their phone or companion.

“Ahh thanks so much Kurapika, you’re a literal lifesaver!”

“Well it would be cruel to just leave you with your bodyguards since you said you don’t get much freedom,” shrugged Kurapika. “It was the least I could do, I guess.”

Neon beamed and declared as they stepped off the escalator, “Then as thanks I shall treat you to a coffee shop.”

Chuckling, Kurapika waved a hand. “Please, you don’t need to.”

“Iya I’m serious,” insisted Neon. She took his elbow and led them to the side so they wouldn’t be a bother to people walking around. She took out her phone and scrolled through it, an irritated sigh leaving her lips. “Darn guards. Now where is that place?” She glanced at Kurapika and said, “I don’t know places well but I do know the shop so bear with me for a moment, ‘kay?”

He nodded and looked around, seeing people walk by. But then he caught sight of a familiar figure, eyes widening in realization her bodyguard had located them.

“Neon we have to go now,” Kurapika said, grabbing her arm and running away again. He heard her shriek in surprise but followed his pace, the girl turning back and whining high and loud in her throat.

“Argh Dalzollene is too good at this job! Why won’t he leave me alone?” Neon growled in frustration, holding onto her fake wig and wide sunglasses. She tugged at his arm from the left, catching him off-guard. “Through here!”

Kurapika changed direction, following Neon’s lead as they swerved through the mall. They ran around and dodged people and racks, slipping inside mini shops and sometimes pretending to be a couple or a couple of siblings playing around to lose their chasers. Whoa, Neon really was heavily guarded. Kurapika now understood why she wanted to get away.

They were at the top most floor of the mall, catching their breath in a corner where a few people passed by and gave them curious looks. None of them approached the duo though, which Kurapika was thankful for.

“Man I’m so beat,” Neon sighed. She checked her phone and winced, biting her bottom lip.

Her reaction was worriesome so he asked tentatively, “What’s wrong?” Her gaze then transferred to him and he caught himself, hastily adding, “You’re not obligated to share, of course. I just want to know if it’s something bad.”

Neon looked to her phone screen again and cringed.

“Papa texted. Of course he’s heard about me running away. I got missed calls and a dozen messages from him demanding where I am and telling me return to my guards.” She pocketed her phone and smiled guiltily at Kurapika. “Gomen I brought you into this mess. I should’ve done a good job at concealing myself.”

“No it’s fine,” he insisted, wiping his bangs from his forehead. “I offered to help so I feel partially responsible as well.” As much as he knew he should leave, his feet seemed to have stayed glued to the tiles. “Will you be okay?” he asked, concerned.

Neon nodded enthusiastically, hair swishing about despite covered by that ridiculous wig.

“Yeah I’ll be fine. I already texted Dalzollene my location so technically, you’re free to go.” Neon looked around then focused on Kurapika again. “Bummer I couldn’t treat you to that coffee shop.”

Despite himself he smiled in amusement.

“It’s fine, really. I’m not exactly one to look for rewards when I just tried to help.”

Neon blinked owlishly at him then grinned. “You’re different, Kurapika. Some might already be asking me for a date or something or tell me I should repay them but you really helped me just because?”

He nodded resolutely. “Just because.” He checked his watch and recoiled at the time. “My, time flies when you’re not paying attention. I have to go now Neon. I still have to purchase some things.”

“Oh yeah I did see you carrying a couple things. Argh I ruined your day and it’s all ‘cause I wanted space.” Neon’s lips turned downward and she buried her face in her hands, Kurapika blinking at how she was quick to assume and blame herself.

“Hey Neon.” His hand reached out to touch her shoulder but stopped himself at the last moment, deeming them not close enough for him to initiate physical contact. He settled on hardening his voice into something commanding but soft and said, “Look at me. Neon, look at me please.”

A muffled whine flitted through her hands but she acquiesced to his words, looking up at him through shiny eyes with unshed tears.

He smiled kindly.

“It’s not your fault, okay? I volunteered myself to help you and I don’t regret it. In fact, if it helps matters, I rather enjoyed letting loose since I usually keep myself composed.”

She blinked, the corners of her lips stretching into yet another of her smiles. Smaller than what he was used to but still brighter. He figured it was an improvement.

Neon nodded and exhaled. “Thanks for cheering me up. I hope your schedule’s not too messed up, though.”

He waved a hand and assured, “It’s fine. I’ve still got time. Well, see you around.”

The girl waved in goodbye, Kurapika waving in return and heading toward the store where he first encountered Neon for the day. It was already nearing evening and he didn’t notice the time, too focused in making sure he and Neon weren’t caught by her guards. They really did a good job in keeping an eye on the heiress. He did hope she wasn’t in much trouble though. Sometimes being surrounded by the same people and having the same schedule was suffocating.

When he returned home it was to Gon and Killua playing video games on the couch, different junk food wrappers and soda bottles strewn around the living room. Kurapika felt a headache coming on at the mess, his fingers coming up to massage his temples.

“Gon where is Leorio? It’s nearing dinnertime.”

Killua hustled with Gon before pushing him away and turning to Kurapika.

“Aww can’t he eat dinner with us? It’s Saturday!”

“Fine, fine. Then at least give Leorio a heads-up so he wouldn’t be surprised to come home to an empty apartment.”

Yes, Gon usually stayed at Leorio’s place whenever he wanted and his Aunt Mito allowed him to. And of course since Leorio’s apartment and Kurapika’s house were almost in the same vicinity, Gon often visited to hang out with Killua. Kurapika didn’t mind them hanging out but it could be tiresome to fix all their messes and keep an eye on them when he still had his own things to take care of.

Killua must have sensed the thoughts running through his mind since he said, “Hey. If you’re worried about the mess we’ll fix it before Gon leaves.”

“Right right Kurapika!” agreed Gon wholeheartedly. “Sorry too for coming in unannounced but I got bored waiting for Leorio.”

Kurapika smiled and assured, “It’s no problem, Gon. I did say my house is your home too. Although to be sure, I’ll call Leorio and inform him of your whereabouts.” Before fully leaving the living room he called out, “Be careful not to make too much of a mess.”

Both boys replied instantaneously, “HAI!”

With a chuckle, Kurapika went over to the phone and dialed Leorio to tell him about Gon. Leorio had (predictably) overreacted but told him he would come by to pick up the kid. Kurapika invited them both for dinner, which the doctor couldn’t refuse after living his days eating nothing but cup noodles. And Gon naturally agreed because what fool turned down free, delicious food?

And so he went about setting the tables, lulled to a rhythm by the noises his younger friends made in the living room.

Chapter Text

Monday rolled around too fast and Kurapika found himself yawning as he walked to school with Killua, who had a strawberry-flavored lollipop in his mouth and who gave him judgmental stares every once in a while.

“I told ya you should’ve gone to bed when I did,” the white-haired kid said, pulling out the treat from his mouth. “You strained yourself organizing for that book fair, huh?”

Kurapika smiled sleepily and nodded sluggishly.

“I also had to rewrite my notes so I was up later than I’d realized.”

A tall man with long black hair passed them by, Killua’s body suddenly freezing up and locking in on itself. Kurapika noticed the change in his housemate and looked toward the man in alarm, shoulders slumping once he realized it wasn’t who Killua thought it was.

He moved to be in front and bent down to Killua’s height, his eyes dark and hooded and almost devoid of any light. Kurapika knew he couldn’t reach out and touch him because it would make him lash out more and panic. So he mustered strength in his voice and spoke quietly but firmly.

“Killua. Focus on my voice and listen to me. He’s not here.” Killua’s head raised a little but his eyes were still unseeing. His body also started to shake, which worried Kurapika. “Honey, I need you to try and breathe with me, okay? I’ll be here with you for as long as you need.”

Killua blinked and inhaled in a shaky breath, Kurapika smiling a little at the accomplishment.

“Yes that’s it you’re doing so good,” he praised softly. “Take a deep breath for me.”

Killua did so again, some of the light appearing in his eyes. Yes, just a little more.

“Yes remember what I taught you? Inhale for seven counts—“ Killua followed, “hold for four“ he did so, “and then slowly release for eight counts.”

Killua exhaled, his eyes shutting and body relaxing visibly, which Kurapika took as a win. When the younger boy opened his eyes again, it was back to its electric blue color than the haunted look seconds ago. His eyes found Kurapika and he offered a small but grateful smile, Kurapika returning the gesture.

“Are you okay now?”

Killua nodded, small smile still gracing his lips. His gaze went to the lollipop in his hand, his fingers twirling the stick around.

Kurapika realized the kid must still be shaken so he cleared his throat to make sure his voice was still soft.

“Can I touch you to give a reassuring and congratulatory hug?” Kurapika asked tentatively, backing away a step to show he wasn’t (and would never) pressuring Killua if he really didn’t want to.

Killua took in their neighborhood and saw the streets devoid of any life or prying eyes. And so he quickly launched himself to the blond boy’s waiting arms, Kurapika enveloping him in warmth and comfort and patting his head for reassurance.

Just to double-check, Kurapika looked around and breathed an almost inaudible sigh of relief upon seeing no Zoldycks lurking around the corner. He would fight tooth and nail if they wanted to take Killua back to his abusive home, and that was also one of the reasons why he took in the twelve-year-old: to escape his family’s torture and horrendous living.

Killua retracted from the hug, cheeks ablaze with a blush. Feigning nonchalance, he shoved the circular treat in his mouth and started walking.

“Baka. We’ll be late.”

Kurapika merely chuckled, more than used to Killua’s mannerisms. He was a tsundere after all.

Unbeknownst to the two boys, a teenager sat inside a limo, smiling softly at the obvious care the older had for the white-haired kid.

“All right so we’ll get back to this in a week’s time,” Kurapika said as he arranged the papers, the Council meeting coming to an end. “Pokkle, you’re in charge of the flyers and Ponzu, please check with the books if they’re in order and complete with no tears or anything.”

Ponzu nodded as she stood, nodding resolutely. “Got it, boss.”

“Shizuku, hopefully you’ve written everything down?” he asked the bespectacled girl, who hummed questioningly. Kurapika sighed, mentally exhausted. Shizuku tended to forget things and constantly had to be reminded even when she was the secretary. “I mean, have you written down the important details that transpired in today’s meeting?”

Shizuku glanced at her papers and nodded with a hum. “I got it.”

Kurapika turned to another occupant and asked, “And if it’s not too much to ask Feitan, maybe you could start computing the budget and finances needed to host the book fair?”

Feitan nodded once and rapidly wrote on his pad of paper, set to work.

“All right then I will start disseminating the information to the classrooms,” Palm chimed in, sipping her herbal tea and looking as immaculate as ever. Kurapika nodded in thanks.

“And I'll check with the possible venues and give a list by Friday,” grunted Ikalgo, arms crossed. “I’ll include supply requests slips.”

Kurapika smiled. “Much appreciated.” He could always count on Ikalgo to be on top of things. He turned to the last member and said, “And Canary, kindly go through our budget records we currently have and assist Feitan with everything cash-related. Would that be all right?”

“Yes sir. That’ll be more than okay.”

Kurapika grinned and clapped his hands once. He turned to each one of the Student Council members and nodded resolutely. “Great. That concludes today’s meeting, everyone. Good work! I’ll see you all around campus.”

“Great job, everyone! Have a good day!” Ponzu said enthusiastically as she waved at the others who returned her well wishes and began to pack their things.

Everyone started to bid each other goodbyes but Shizuku and Feitan greeted no one and left just as swiftly. Kurapika frowned; he couldn’t understand his feelings for both of them but he was cautious of them for some reason. They had never done incriminating or humiliating to him; they both kept to themselves and were usually reticent but something about their aura just put Kurapika at unease. He couldn’t exactly complain to Principal Netero since they had done no criminal activity or the sort but he did keep an eye on them. On the bright side, they did their duties with little to no complaint, so at least he didn’t have to worry about the Council having some problems with them.

Ah, he had a shift at the coffee shop today and he forgot to tell Killua!

Eyebrows furrowed in slight annoyance at himself, he slung his bag over his shoulder and made his way out of the Council room after greeting his fellow members. Something bumped into his midsection, Kurapika stepping back and about to apologize when he saw a familiar shock of green hair.

“Gon,” he greeted, pleasantly surprised.

“Ah Kurapika! Just finished with the meeting?” Gon asked, smiling up at the older boy.

“Yes,” he said. “What are you doing around here? Leorio hasn’t come to pick you up yet?”

Gon shook his head and replied, “Nah but he said he isn’t working late so I’m hopeful. Killua’s in the washroom but I’m kinda bummed at Menchi-sensei with the homework she assigned.”

A soft wince escaped Kurapika at Gon’s statement. Ooh, Menchi was a terror to the students due to her strict personality. She was harder to please than most teachers so almost everyone had a hard time in passing her classes. He couldn’t imagine what Gon was going through if he was taking up Science with her.

“If you need any help I will be happy to assist,” said Kurapika sincerely. “Ah but could I make a request?”

“Sure what is it?”

“I have a shift at the coffee shop today and forgot to tell Killua, silly me. Would you be so kind as to inform him for me?”

Gon nodded enthusiastically. “No problem, Kurapika. Ganbatte!”

Kurapika smiled and nodded once. “Hai. You two keep safe, okay? Text or call me if you need anything!”

“Yessir! Work hard!”

With a wave, Kurapika went out of the school, rummaging his bag and checking if he left anything. He then crossed a few streets to get to the coffee shop nearby, walking with a hop in his step.

Chapter Text

Neon huffed loudly and threw her school bag in the limo, frustrated beyond belief. Dalzollene took one glance at her and said, “What can I do to make you feel better, mistress?”

“Ugh of course the obvious—take me to my favorite coffee shop near school. I gotta spend at least a couple hours there if you want me to be calm the whole ride home,” Neon replied sassily as she clambered in the vehicle. “Make it snappy.”

Dalzollene gave a little bow and nodded. “As you wish, Miss Neon. I’ll take you to that coffee shop right away.”

Neon looked out the window as her bodyguard drove away, eyebrows nearly joined in the middle at how irritating her day was today.

When she had gone home after escaping from her bodyguards last Saturday, of course her father told her off and gave her a thirty-minute lecture about safety and his business and blah blah blah that really didn’t concern Neon. Then today was such a bad day she wanted to throw everything and everyone she encountered. She got a tardy slip from her homeroom teacher Kite and Tonpa, the old useless geezer, gave her a zero in today’s task because she didn’t have a lab coat. Yes, she forgot it at home. But did Tonpa really have to mark her zero? Couldn’t he give her a chance at least to try and do an experiment the next time? Apparently not.

What’s more, her favorite dress was ruined because some clumsy guy passed by her during lunch and tripped, his food spilling all over her hair and clothes. Of course she threw a fit about it because the dress was brand-new. Everyone was laughing at her so Neon had no choice but to go to the office and ask Secretary Cheadle for her help in choosing decent attire. Now she was in a plain white shirt with a rock band she wasn’t familiar with and loose, baggy pants always slipping on her hips. Overall, her day wasn’t good.

Ugh… she wanted her favorite coffee right now.

“We’ve arrived, miss.”

Neon threw open the car door and stomped out. “Great. Don’t follow me inside and just stand guard like you’re supposed to, okay?”

She didn’t wait for a reply and pushed open the glass doors, still seething from her bad day. Everything was just going horribly wrong and it wasn’t even close to freakin’ Saturday! She nearly slipped and had the attention of nearby people who either snickered or looked on in concern. She didn’t need pity! What she wanted was caffeine!

Slamming her palms on the counter she said in a forceful cheery tone, “Hi there I’d like a large caramel Frappuccino, please? With as much sugar as you can fit in that cup until I die of diabetes.”

The person had their back turned to Neon so she really couldn’t see their face. But after she had stated her order the person chuckled and turned her way, a gasp pulled out of her lips at seeing the familiar face. Her lips turned upwards, sour mood instantly forgotten.

“Kurapika!” she exclaimed pleasantly. “You work here?”

“Part-time, yes,” he agreed as he approached the register. Tapping buttons on the register, he paused and turned to her. “Caramel Frappuccino with lots of sugar, correct?”

“Yep!”

He finished ringing in the order and asked with a raised brow, “Bad day?”

“Ugh yeah. It’s not the worst but it’s so bad my mood’s turned upside down.” She reached for her wallet and realized she left her school bag in the limo. Ugh could her day get any worse? “Ugh I’m so sorry again but I left my wallet in the limo. D’you think I could pay for my drink after?”

Kurapika shrugged and tapped some buttons again until the register dinged.

“I see no problem with that.” Then to a co-worker he called out, “Caramel Frappuccino with ninety-nine percent sugar, please! And make it quick!”

“On it!”

Neon shot Kurapika a sheepish smile, the boy smiling at her. He was in a collared white shirt with the sleeves rolled up to the elbows. For some reason it just made Neon want to stare at his forearms all day, no matter how weird it sounded. Over the shirt was a brown apron which was probably their uniform. Then on the left side of his chest was a silver nameplate with his name on it.

“Do you want to wait for your drink here or I’ll bring it up to you?” Kurapika asked.

“I’ll just wait for it here no biggie.”

“Noted. But uh… can you move to the side? I’ve still got a few customers waiting for their turn.”

Flushing, Neon whirled around and saw an old lady behind her, a middle-aged man, and a teenager waiting in line. Neon felt her cheeks go hot again in embarrassment and moved aside with a meek apology, the old woman chuckling in mirth as she took Neon’s spot.

Gah that was so embarrassing!

Neon waited to the side, drumming her nails and waiting (im)patiently for her drink. Soon after, her order was handed to her by another blond guy with green eyes who looked to be about their age.

“Ah…” she uttered, the guy turning to her in question. At his attention Neon blushed but steeled herself to ask, “Anou… is it okay if I borrow Kurapika for a while? I know it’s kinda indecent of me but I really don’t wanna be alone right now. I need a distraction.”

The boy raised a blond eyebrow and smirked. Then he turned to the register where his co-worker was busy writing a name on a plastic cup, tongue poking out in concentration.

“Yo Kurapika take fifteen! Some lady wants your sweet, loving company!”

“Ahh baka don’t say it like that!” Neon couldn’t help but burst, swatting her arm at the boy but he dodged it and snickered. “You make it sound so weird eww.”

Even Kurapika frowned at the other blond and said, “What Neon said, Shalnark. You don’t have to make it sound like that. You’re so weird.”

The boy named Shalnark shrugged carelessly and swiped the cup from Kurapika’s hands.

“I got your shift covered. Want us to bring you your favorite tea and cake?”

Kurapika raised a suspicious brow at him as he was in the midst of taking off his work apron.

“Should I be concerned you know my favorites?”

“Dude, everyone here knows everyone’s favorite. Now get lost; time’s ticking! How dare you make a beautiful lady wait for a tin can like you?”

Neon giggled at Shalnark’s description, Kurapika passing him by and slapping his arm in retaliation, cheeks bright red.

“You idiot. And yeah please do bring my favorites,” Kurapika said, throwing his apron on Shalnark’s head and letting it drape there. Neon laughed then, Kurapika’s shoulders also shaking in repressed laughter as he gestured with an arm for them to move on.

Neon took her drink and followed the boy, who led them to a two-person table by the large windows.

“Thanks for agreeing to spend time with me,” Neon said as she sat down. “And I know it’s kinda like… high-profile or something to ask you be with me but I needed a distraction.”

Kurapika’s eyebrow rose in curiosity. “Distraction?”

“Yeah.” Neon removed the straw from its paper casing and stuck it in her Frappuccino. “And also, this’ll just continue at home so I might as well simmer down some before I get mad at Papa for always stating the obvious.”

She sucked on her straw then, Kurapika humming. Then Shalnark came by their table with a slice of carrot cake and cup of macchiato, smirking at Kurapika and placing his order on the table.

Kurapika frowned at him and pushed him away. “Get a grip on yourself, Shalnark. Why do you have to be like that?”

Shalnark paid no attention to the shove and turned to Neon. “Miss, are you sure this is pleasurable company? I guarantee I can make you laugh your guts will burst.”

Neon smiled and said, “I’m fine with Kurapika, thanks.”

Shalnark took no offense; just nodded and left. Kurapika eyed his own food and looked to Neon.

“Would you like a bite or a sip? I think your Frappuccino is too sweet. I’m not too fond of sweet things.”

Neon waved a hand and took a sip again.

“No I’m fine. Ne since when did you start this part-time job?”

“Oh I’ve been at this for almost a year, I think? Why do you ask?”

Stirring her straw in her drink Neon said, “I don’t think I’ve seen you before here and this is my favorite coffee shop. Oh remember the time when you helped me escape my bodyguards?” He nodded and she continued, “The mall actually has a store like this and this is where I wanted to take you. But seeing as you already work here, then I guess it makes things easier.” They both laughed. “I still owe you that drink though but since you’ve got your order here, allow me to pay for mine and yours today.”

Kurapika waved a hand and insisted, “Oh no Neon you don’t have to—”

“Iya I wanna. I’ll just tell Dalzollene to bring in my wallet. I’m stinking rich so this won’t really hurt me. And I mean it when I said I wanna repay you.”

She thought she saw Kurapika frown but the expression was gone before she could really think about it.

“Do you enjoy flaunting your riches?” Kurapika asked quietly as he took a bite of his cake.

Neon shrugged carelessly. “Eh not particularly. The Nostrade name is already a big name in itself so I don’t really have to remind people?”

“Ah.” Neon thought it strange but Kurapika seemed a bit… detached? “You know Neon, I don’t really need pity from anyone.”

Neon blinked, shocked.

“Wh—where did that come from, Kurapika?” she said, alarmed at his suddenly cold demeanor. “I didn’t mean anything when I—hey where’re you going?” she asked as he stood abruptly, leaving his cake and macchiato. “Hey I said—”

“I need to finish my shift. I still have to do some homework since not all of us have money to get us by.”

Now Neon was really getting annoyed as she stood from her seat and yelled at his retreating figure, “OI Kurapika why’re you walking off? Was it something I said?”

Kurapika only stopped to glare at her, a cold shiver of fear running down her spine at his look. But she didn’t let that show and only glowered at him harder, defiant. Really, what was his deal?

“It’s rude to walk off when we’re having a conversation.”

By now people were staring at them, even the workers and Shalnark included. Neon’s sole attention was on that rude boy though, who also did nothing but glare daggers at her.

“I get it: I’m not as rich as you. I don’t have servants at my disposal but was it really necessary you shove all that in my face?” Kurapika said, rounding to face her and gesturing wildly with his hands, all cool forgotten.

Neon slammed her hands on the table in anger, its contents shaking at the force.

“WHAT! Oh so that’s how it is, huh? I try to offer kindness and this is how you repay me?”

“I don’t need your pity and your money because as much as I lack in finances, I make up for it with hard work, which is something I can say for myself and not so much for you.” He made a show of looking at her, Neon scoffing and disgusted at how brash his words were. “Now if you’ll excuse me, I have work to finish. You may leave. And just to show I am not in a financial slump, I will pay for both our orders.”

Without another word, he went behind the counter and snatched his apron from Shalnark’s shoulder. People began to whisper to themselves, heads together and gazes going to both of them once in a while. Neon fumed, hands itching to throw off everything on the desk. Her brows knitted together, coming to a decision and swiping her drink off the table. She stomped towards the exits and yelled in his general direction, “Ugh, petty much? Sayonara, baka! You’re an even bigger jerk than I realized!”

He didn’t answer and Neon didn’t care as she wrenched open the doors and walked out, now in an even horrible mood than when she first came inside the store. Ugh, that stuck-up boy. What was his problem, huh? It wasn’t like she loved the life she had right now. Sure there were some advantages but it wasn’t all rainbows and unicorns.

“Dalzollene, back to the mansion pronto! I need to smash some of my ornaments when we get back.”

He nodded as he took the steering wheel and drove out of the curb. “As you wish, Miss Neon.”

Neon yawned as she entered homeroom period, feeling Kite’s eyes on her. Perturbed and a little irritated, she turned to the man and scowled at him.

“Hai, Kite-sensei? Need anything?”

He merely shook his head and said, “You’re quite early today compared to yesterday.”

Neon couldn’t help but reply, “Gee thanks for noticing, sensei. Now if you’ll excuse me, I’ll head to my seat otherwise you’ll mark me tardy.”

He barked out a laugh, which made Neon’s lips quirk upwards slightly. She took her usual seat in the middle row, Machi’s bored gaze on her. Neon slumped on her seat as she heaved out a sigh, dropping her bag on the floor.

Machi raised a perfect brow and commented, “You look like shit, Neon.”

“Ugh tell me about it,” Neon said, sitting straighter in her seat. “Yesterday was so freakin’ bad and I’m hoping today will be at least mildly decent. And it isn’t even Friday or Saturday yet!”

Machi’s lips quirked upward and she said, “Chill out. If you blink it’ll be Friday and we can have a girls’ night out.”

“Ugh yes please. Anything to not think about that stupid Council President.” She rolled her eyes as she said this, Kurapika’s face flashing in her mind’s eye.

It seemed to pique Machi’s interest as she asked, “Council President? You mean Kurapika? I never knew you two were close.”

Neon scoffed and turned to the other girl.

“Me? Friends with a guy like him? Um no thanks. Well at first I thought he was super nice but we had a fight yesterday so we’re not on good terms.”

“Do you plan on apologizing to him?”

Neon blanched at the very idea of lowering her pride for someone who got mad at her first.

“I’m not apologizing because I did nothing wrong! He got mad first so logically he should be the one to approach me first and apologize on bended knee!”

An amused chuckle flitted from Machi’s lips and she said, “Okay girl no need to get so worked up about it. But you know, it’s not about who was in the wrong or who snapped first. Sometimes it’s about learning to compromise, y’know?”

Neon narrowed her eyes at her. “Machi, oh my god since when were you so knowledgeable on these things? D’you got a boyfriend?”

Machi scoffed and rolled her eyes.

“No but I’ve been in pain before, you know. It’s not always about romantic love and shit.”

“Hmm true. But still, I ain’t apologizing ‘cause I know I did nothing wrong.”

Before another word could be exchanged, the bell rang to signal the start of class.

Throughout the week, Neon didn’t see much of her nemesis. But whenever she did catch a glimpse of the boy she made sure to stare hatefully at him. Kurapika didn’t always see her amidst the crowds or sometimes he was busy focusing over papers or other things but he did sometimes catch her looking at him. And his features would shift to something stoic and unfeeling, gaze cold and hard. Neon wouldn’t admit out loud but sometimes it chilled her, like ice slipping down her back constantly.

This went on for another week until something or someone or an unknown force made them grudgingly meet each other. Kite wanted her to send in some papers for the book fair since he still had to do some other stuff and of course that meant meeting up with the one solely in charge, which was (ugh) Kurapika.

Neon curled and uncurled her fingers to stop the urge of smacking his darn handsome face to the curb once she saw him and knocked politely on the door leading to the Council Office. It was opened by the secretary Shizuku, who blinked owlishly at her with her large glasses nearly falling down her nose.

“Eto… is the idiot presi—ah I mean, is Kurapika here?” she asked, catching herself at insulting the guy in front of another person. “I’m supposed to hand in some papers for the book fair since Kite-sensei forced me to.”

Shizuku blinked at her again and said, “Well he’s inside right now. I’ll just tell him you’re here. Ah… what’s your name?”

Neon found it strange she didn’t know her name. Arguably, she was the most popular female in the grade twelve possibly next to Kurapika. Still, she said her name and Shizuku left her with the door open.

There were voices from inside, Neon’s curiosity making her peek in the room and see Shizuku by a table, where none other than Kurapika was seated with a mountain of papers and folders to look over, round spectacles perched on his nose.

Cute.

Ah wait what? No Neon don’t think like that! He’s your enemy! Yes, your freaking gorgeous enemy—no, wait ugh!

They both conversed for a while until Kurapika’s gaze landed on her, Neon quick to screw her expression into a scowl so it wouldn’t look like she was totally checking him out or something. Kurapika also frowned her way before he looked back to Shizuku with a neutral expression, eventually nodding.

Shizuku then turned to her and said, “You’re welcome to come in, Non.”

“It’s Neon,” she corrected as she went in.

Kurapika chuckled but attempted to hide it, covering his laugh with a cough. Neon narrowed her eyes at him, having already caught him.

Shizuku still stayed by Kurapika’s side as he and Neon glared at each other. Shizuku also didn’t seem to feel the tension, tilting her head quizzically at Kurapika then at Neon.

“Why does it feel like you two want to rip each other’s eyeballs out?” she questioned aloud, causing the two to break the eye contact and nervously clear their throats.

“You may leave now Shizuku thank you,” Kurapika said, the girl nodding once and leaving. Then to Neon he maintained a passive stare and said, “What is it you need, Neon?”

“No no no,” she said, waggling a finger. “It’s what you need from me, Kurapika,” she corrected, a frown marring his beautiful face. Neon handed him the papers, Kurapika taking them with a wary eye.

“Me needing something from you?” He scoffed as he scanned the papers, nodding. “Yes I need these papers but certainly not from you.”

Neon sighed in irritation.

“Oh come on please don’t tell me you’re still hung up over that money issue.”

“Oh no, I’m not hung up,” Kurapika said evenly, arranging the papers and refusing to meet her heated stare. Then he looked at her. “I’m merely waiting for a certain blue-haired girl to take back her words and properly apologize to me, the respectful bow included.”

Neon’s skin prickled and she couldn’t help but lash out, “Me? Little ol’ me should apologize to you?! I wasn’t even poking fun at your background or anything what are you even—”

“Look, I just want a decent apology on the way you treated me in the coffee shop.” It must’ve been Neon’s imagination but his voice and eyes were colder than what she was used to.

“Argh I wasn’t even doing anything to you!”

“You looked down on me when I didn’t ask for your money or pity and I absolutely cannot stand for it.”

Neon pursed her lips then, eyebrows knitting together and almost joining in the middle. Her anger got to her and she huffed, turning away from him.

“I don’t even have to say anything to you. Goodbye.”

“Oh yes be that way: act spoiled and high and mighty whenever you want, Miss Neon Nostrade,” Kurapika called back as Neon growled and threw open the door. “Yes please show yourself the way out. I’m too busy drowning in my duties to even bid a proper goodbye.”

“Argh I hate you shut up!” Neon screamed, face red and slamming the door closed. She gasped and heaved for much-needed air, nerves on fire and wanting so bad to punch something.

Through the door she heard Shizuku remark, “You two really need to sort out your differences, Kurapika.”

Then she heard that annoying boy sigh and say, “It’s none of your business Shizuku but I appreciate the sentiments.”

“Just saying. I could smell the sexual tension from even here.”

Neon sputtered, face covered in a blush rivaling a tomato’s. Sexual tension? What was that girl even saying?

Baka baka baka baka!

Red-faced and heart in a frenzy, Neon stumbled to the left when she wanted to walk away, accidentally bumping with a person.

“Ah gomenasai.”

She blinked and saw she bumped into a younger-looking kid, most probably in seventh grade. He had white hair and rather distant blue eyes which regarded her coolly before nodding once, acknowledging her.

“No problem. You looked pretty out of it.”

They stood there in silence before the kid was rounding her and knocking on the door.

“Yo Kura mind if I come in?”

“Yes the door is very much open, Killua!”

The boy named Killua gave Neon another glance and nod before he was sliding the door open and going inside, shutting the door behind him and disappearing.

Come to think of it, Neon recognized the boy. He was the boy Kurapika was comforting when she saw him walking on the way to school one day. Neon actually wanted to say hi but the younger kid looked so traumatized or something so she just stayed put and discreetly watched Kurapika comfort him with hushed words and warm smiles. Then they were hugging and walking to school like nothing happened.

Was the kid Kurapika’s lover or something… no, it wasn’t any of her business. But judging the way he called Kurapika by a nickname, then it meant they were pretty close, right?

Ugh so what if they were close? Ugh why was she even getting worked up about this whole thing? Neon should just head home since it’s already been an hour after classes were dismissed and her ride was still nowhere. Now where was that Dalzollene?

Just after she had finished the thought, a black limo emerged and Dalzollene came out to bow in greeting.

“Oh finally you’re here. Now let’s go.”

Neon made to enter the vehicle but Dalzollene then said, “Your father received a last-minute call for fortune-telling and would like you to proceed there immediately.”

“Aww what?! No! Tell Papa he has to re-schedule; I’m super tired!” Neon whined, wanting to go home. Why did her father have to agree to something so last-minute? No way!

“But this client of yours owns a museum, which your father thinks you’d be interested in.”

And this made the young Nostrade halt entirely before turning wide puppy-dog eyes to her guard and driver, stars in her eyes.

“Really? Like, a really big one?”

Dalzollene nodded curtly. “Yes, Miss Neon. Would you like to—”

“AAHH why didn’t cha tell me sooner, Dalzollene? Let’s go let’s go!” A giggly Neon hurriedly went inside and got comfy, the man going to the driver’s side and starting up the car once again to drive his young charge toward the museum in question.

Ooh, let the fun begin!

Chapter Text

Neon couldn’t stop the elation churning in her gut. Luckily she brought her fortune-telling materials almost every day and it was such a joy for the timing to be just right! See, apart from being a part-time fortune teller, Neon had an affinity in collecting body parts. Yes, it was a strange hobby indeed but since there were laws regarding about the ownership of body parts apart from science and research, Neon had to find something similar to try and keep her passion alive.

So her interest was also in taxidermy—the art of preparing and stuffing skins of animals with lifelike effect. While it wasn’t really what Neon wanted, it was close enough to her love of body parts that she also found herself intrigued with how the animals were so well taken care of even after death. To preserve them was something else and Neon couldn’t be happier.

But still, she had a few skulls and an ivory tusk of an extinct mammoth her father had given her so all was good. She could admire her small collection and just stare at them. Hopefully they wouldn’t get confiscated though. Neon also had plans of growing said collection and traveling the world to see more of displayed old items and artifacts.

And then they pulled up at the front of the museum, Neon flinging the door open and zooming inside the museum, ignorant of her driver’s pleas and how he hurried to be by her side.

“Ne ne where’s the owner?” questioned Neon, tugging insistently on Dalzollene’s sleeve as her eyes took in everything around her, heart swelling with joy at seeing such antiques and creations.

“You must be Neon Nostrade!”

Both of them turned to be met with a man with brown curly hair in an afro hairstyle wearing an orange Hawaiian shirt and light brown slacks topped off with brown shoes Neon could tell were expensive and most likely made in a different country.

She pointed to it.

“Are those…” her eyes squinted and tilted her head in thought before looking back at the man’s curious eyes, “Stacy Adams?”

The man paused to give his shoes a glance and he barked out a laugh as he clapped, approaching Neon and Dalzollene.

“Ooh, sharp eye Miss Nostrade.” He halted in a grandiose manner in front of them, stomping his feet and proudly displaying the shiny brown shoes with a pointed end. “Yes indeed, m’dear. Now, how about that fortune-telling and I will tell you all about my travels in different countries?”

Neon nodded energetically and took her things from Dalzollene.

“Stay here, all right? I’ll make him pay me with an artifact from here.”

Dalzollene stammered out a reply but Neon didn’t pay attention as she followed the man going up a polished wooden staircase with sleek and shiny banister that caused her to be exhilarated at the smooth texture it offered.

“Waah I have to say, your museum is really well-kept!”

“Oh thank you, darling.” He paused and whipped toward her, Neon stumbling at the steps but easily regaining balance. He bowed slightly. “Forgive me for not introducing myself. I am Santino Moretti. I have heard stories about you, Miss Nostrade.” Keeping eye contact with her, Santino took hold of her hand and laid a wet kiss on it, Neon laughing and trying to act charmed.

“Hopefully good stories,” she chimed.

When his back was turned she hastily wiped her hand at the back of her skirt, frowning as she followed behind.

Santino led her to a wooden door which he opened. He shot her a smile and gestured for her to come inside, Neon doing so with a polite smile. Sunlight filtered in the room, the paned windows open to accommodate the afternoon breeze. A tall and large bookshelf was to the left, the spines of the books turned toward the viewer so their titles would be visible to anyone. In the middle was a round and polished wooden table with two chairs on either side. On the other side was another bookshelf, its contents not as full as the first one.

“Is this setting to your liking, dear?” Santino asked as he shut the door and walked inside the room, footfalls muffled by a plush carpet Neon only saw once she looked down. Ooh... she liked the texture and how the spot she was standing on sank, rising once again when she lifted her foot.

She giggled, pleased.

“Oh this room is tastefully and artfully done, Santino,” she said, her tone admiring as she took the unoccupied seat across the man, who smiled proudly and nodded, curly hair bobbing with the movement. “You certainly know your stuff.”

“Oh how wonderful to hear that from you.” Santino then faced her properly and laced his fingers together, a serious expression replacing the jovial demeanor from earlier. “I assume your father has told you about me.”

Neon controlled her facial features to show regret and shook her head sadly.

“Sorry good sir, but this is last-minute so I don’t know much about you, only how you owned this museum.” She made a show of looking around as if someone were to eavesdrop and leaned her elbows on the table. “But I will gladly tell your fortune if you agree to a term of mine.” She grinned. “What do you say, sir?”

Santino chuckled and relaxed in his seat. “I’ve heard you’re interested in body part collection and taxidermy apart from the praise you receive as an accurate fortune teller.”

“Yes those aren’t rumors. So, do we have a deal?”

“Let’s see first how you are and let’s decide if what you want equals your skills.”

She smirked as she readied her things. “You’d be surprised. Now,” she reached into her bag and pulled out her trusty tarot cards. She winked at Santino, whose eyebrows raised. Placing the cards on the desk she said, “This is how I do my fortune-telling: tarot cards. Ask me a specific question you want answered and don’t start with ‘Will I...’ as you will become a passive being in your own future and we wouldn’t want that, now would we?”

Santino chuckled and dabbed at his temple with a white handkerchief. He sniffed and smiled pleasantly. “No of course not.” He scooted forward and said, “How is my life right now? Am I doing good or not?”

With a nod, Neon then spread her seventy-eight cards on the table, messily jumbling them around as Santino watched aptly. When Neon deemed she had shuffled enough, she stacked the cards together, making sure they were all face-down and never giving away any sign until the time was ripe.

After gathering the cards in one big pile, she split them into uneven four. Breathing in deeply and shutting her eyes, she held up a hand to call for silence and channel her inner powers of intuition.

Eyes still closed, she picked three from random piles. She opened her eyes and smiled.

“My way of reading is picking three cards which represent the past, present, and future. Also, there are seventy-eight cards and they are divided into Major Arcana and Minor Arcana.” She flipped the first card from her left and hummed. “This is The Fool symbolizing adventure.” She took the other one. “Oh this is a Minor Arcana, the Suit of Wands.” She upturned the last one, an eyebrow raising. “The Tower is reversed from me, which changes the meaning.”

“What does that mean?”

“Well it is facing your direction instead. Sometimes meanings don’t change but then again, sometimes they do when they’re reversed. In this, it means resisting change and delaying the inevitable.” She looked up just in time to see Santino swallow, Adam’s apple bobbing. Her eyes narrowed in suspicion but still, she’ll have to give him the benefit of the doubt as she smiled pleasantly.

“Your past is represented by the reversed Tower, resisting change. Your present is the Suit of Wands which is connected to fire, passion, creativity, and energy.” He smiled slightly at that. “And your future is The Fool, the number zero card in the Major Arcana.” She smiled and let herself be lost in interpretation. This was what was special about fortune-telling. A system unique to each fortune teller existed, giving them freedom to rely on their instinct and intuition. “Your past tells me you didn’t have such a good childhood. You must be resentful and an outcast in your childhood and teen years. Your present is going good, reaching out and exploring. And your future seems to be full of new beginnings and authentic happiness.”

Santino leaned back in his seat and gave a satisfied nod.

“I am pleased, Neon lass,” he said, nodding again. “Though your way is different from the past fortunes I’ve had from others, I have no doubt you also have a gift in fortune-telling. You seem to know your cards well and are creative enough to try and give your own meaning and for that, I applaud you, dear girl.”

Neon flushed, pleased with herself.

“Since you’ve met my expectations and surprised me, name your price for this session, dearie. I’ll give it to you with no complaint.”

Neon’s smile turned devilish and mischievous, payment already in mind.

“I want the bust of Cleopatra you have here, free of charge.”

Chapter Text

The fortune-telling that day was a success and now Neon had another treasure to add to her collection. Her father recoiled at first when he saw the bust but patted her on the head for a good job so Neon couldn’t be bothered. She at least had done the fortune-telling and she couldn’t be any happier with her prize.

Currently school had finished but Dalzollene was nowhere to be seen or found.

When she dug for her phone and scrolled through unread messages, Neon realized she had to take public transport to get back home to the mansion since Dalzollene got himself into a stupid accident or something so he obviously wasn’t gonna be able to pick her up. Ugh, just her luck.

She didn’t even know how to take those things! Her handmaiden Eliza was kind enough to text her on the transport taken and how much each ride cost but still, Neon was feeling a little lost. She had never commuted by herself. She couldn’t even call her father since he was busy doing whatever. And Neon knew if she interrupted him she’d just get scolded.

Biting her lip, Neon realized she had to start somewhere. So Eliza had said it would take 110 yen for a bus ride. Then she’d have to take a subway. Man, why were the prices so high? When she complained to Eliza, the woman explained it would actually cost less if she had a Suica or IC card for the bus, which she didn’t have since she was always in the limo. But not today.

Ugh she really had no choice, huh?

She took the first bus she saw and stood by the middle, wrapping her right hand around the handrail available and keeping close to herself. Blond hair then emerged just before the driver was about to drive off the school curb, Neon’s eyes widening as she recognized Kurapika.

Huh... it's been almost close to two weeks since they'd last spoken or seen each other. Why does that bother her even when she knew they weren't on good terms?

He was on his phone and tapped his IC card on something like a scanner, eyes looking up and eventually finding Neon. After his eyes widened in surprise he scowled and walked past her to sit by the back.

Oh, so they were going to play the Ignore Game. Well, Neon could do it better. She faced the windows and plugged in her earphones, minding her own business. Soon someone taller and broader stood behind her but Neon didn’t pay attention, too absorbed in her music to really mind. But she did wonder why the person was sticking close to her when the bus didn’t have that many people.

A hand then slowly came to grab a handful of her butt, Neon freezing in total shock and horror and feeling cold fear run her spine. This person—this man—was actually groping her and Neon didn’t know what to do but she definitely didn’t like it. Her mind just shut down, the music filtering into her ears but her brain never making sense of it.

Then he leaned into her ear even though there were earphones and whispered, “You were asking for it, looking all pretty and displaying your bum like some slut.”

S—slut?

“Hey buddy.” The man turned and was swiftly given a punch, Neon flinching at feeling his body collide with hers when he stumbled back with a cry. Shame and guilt and all ugly feelings curled inside her stomach, tears of frustration building at her eyes. She gripped the handrail tighter, almost refusing to let go. “How dare you touch her so inappropriately? Did she look like she was asking for your filthy hand? You’re an absolute disgrace to the women and you’re the reason why they are always so afraid to get so close. Step aside.”

The unknown third person must have kicked him aside since the man cried out again. Through Neon’s peripheral vision, she could see blond hair and concerned gray eyes but she really couldn’t focus on any of them, mind and heart too loud for her.

“Neon.” His voice was strong but not commanding. Firm but gentle. Neon slightly turned her head in his direction. “I’m going to pull us out of this bus. Can I touch you?”

Numb, she shakily nodded, willing her head to move up and down to give nonverbal consent. A gentle hand wrapped around her wrist and pulled her, Neon’s body following but not really moving. She did register solid ground and much needed air and space, the warm hand uncurling from her when they were both off the bus.

Neon’s heart was still beating wildly and it felt like an imprint of a hand on the left cheek of her butt seared her skin. She knew even if she scrubbed that spot countless times, slapped herself to rid of the touch, it would never go away. And she hated it, hated feeling so useless, hated this overwhelming urge to tear out her hair and jump off a cliff for being so open and vulnerable.

And then she cried, the tears falling down her cheeks and making her vision blurry. She collapsed to the ground, phone clattering and earphones unplugging themselves from her ears but Neon didn’t care. The strap of her bag fell down her shoulder to her bicep and she didn’t care. The ground was rough and hard and itchy but she didn’t care. She wanted to rub her butt on this surface to try and rid of the man’s touch but knew it was futile.

“Oh Neon I’m terribly sorry I hadn’t seen that. I should have stopped him when I saw him stand behind you,” said a voice from beside her, Neon scrubbing her eyes and seeing Kurapika with guilt written on his face, eyes soft. “Some Council President I am, huh? I couldn’t even stop an unknown man from molesting you.”

Neon cried harder and couldn’t stop herself from leaning towards him, trusting him to catch her. And he did, a tentative hand coming up to stroke the top of her head in comfort and apology. Another hand came up to rub at her shoulder, a puff of air hitting her face and tickling her.

“I apologize. Do you want to press charges? I was able to take a photo of the man before I grabbed you. Neon, I’m so sorry you had to go through that. And whatever your thoughts tell you, whatever you’re thinking of right now, I will firmly reassure you you did absolutely nothing wrong. You are a victim of sexual harassment and your feelings are valid.

“You didn’t offer yourself to him and you are by no means a whore or a slut. Please pay attention to my words, Neon. And know I am cursing myself right now for letting my anger get in the way. If I wasn’t so mad I would have paid attention to you, maybe offered a seat so you wouldn’t have to experience that.”

“Just…” she gasped, wiping at her eyes uselessly since they continued to leak tears, “shut up and hold me like your life depended on it.”

“But… wouldn’t that trigger you more? And frankly we’re not close enough to be this physically close to each other—”

“Kurapika!” she whined, just needing someone to comfort and reassure her and not make her think of anything else.

“Oh all right all right,” he conceded, wrapping his arms tighter around her and pulling her closer to his chest. “But please, do tell me if I am being too much and I will back off immediately. I am even giving you full permission to attack me should you see fit.”

Neon giggled, finding his consent and words both amusing and fulfilling. He was actually allowing her to punch him or something if she so wanted to. He was giving her freedom and even valuing her feelings as something valid and not like they were overreactions or anything. And Neon greatly appreciated that.

Almost an hour later they were in a nearby coffee shop with smooth jazz in the background, both of them seated by the high chairs were lined by the large window overlooking the streets. Neon nursed her hot peppermint drink and Kurapika had a vanilla frappe, which made her think back to the time they were like this but facing each other and with swapped drinks—Neon’s was cold and his was hot then. Now it was different.

Kurapika from her left took a long suck on his frappe, eyes trained outside. But she knew he was listening.

“I started getting involved with Papa’s business when I was around twelve or thirteen. He noticed I had a talent in fortune-telling and so ran that business along with his usual. It was hard work but he managed. I’m told my fortunes were almost always accurate, and so of course this caught the attention of other businessmen. I didn’t mind because Papa’s attention was on me and he was willing to bend to my every whim, be it shopping or attending an auction or taxidermy.

“It wasn’t until I was fourteen I had my first incident. It was one of Papa’s so called ‘friends’ or something but he was a big enough name in the business world. He—” she choked on nothing but air, her fingers turning clammy.

“Neon you don’t have to tell me if you don’t want to,” cut Kurapika hastily, waving a hand. “This is still obviously a sensitive topic for you so I would rather stray from that because it makes you visibly uncomfortable.”

“No,” she said firmly, shaking her head. Then she looked at Kurapika, whose gaze was imploring but curious. “If I don’t tell you now I’ll chicken out the next time and you won’t be able to pull anything from my mouth. And this’ll also make you understand. So please, let me.”

Kurapika licked his lips, the tension uncoiling from his shoulders as he relaxed and nodded. Neon took a deep breath, looking back out into the streets.

“He touched my knee and rubbed it like I was glass or something. His face remained pleasant all throughout, like he wasn’t doing anything wrong. I couldn’t quite place my feelings then but I knew I wanted to be away from this man as far as possible. Then he let go, said his goodbyes, and left. I felt awful afterwards and wouldn’t eat for days. I always covered my legs with jeans or anything and I never wore dresses or skirts until after like, six months. Papa noticed I had been off for the past six months and so referred me to a therapist who really helped so after I finished my sessions, I gained enough confidence to wear skirts and whatever but I made sure to wear thigh-high socks or stockings whenever my legs were exposed.”

Her gaze then strayed to her tightly pressed knees, her black school socks almost reaching the uniform skirt and just above the knee.

She finished her story with a sip of her hot drink then turned to Kurapika, a thoughtful expression on his face.

“Had there been any other incidents after the man that touched your knee?”

“Nope, the next one was the one in the bus where that man grabbed my butt. So it’s a second time and I’m still pretty shaken.”

He sighed and hung his head, bangs covering his eyes momentarily. Then he looked at her.

“I’m deeply sorry you had to go through that. I’m disgusted. Men shouldn’t treat you this way. I’ve had my fair share of catcalling and whatnot because I’m often mistaken for a girl but it had never been a problem to me since I could beat them up and continue with my life. To women, it’s different because it’s emotionally scarring.” His right hand turned into a fist. “Had I not been too caught up in our petty argument none of this would have happened. I would have pulled him away from you and thrown him to the curb.”

Neon giggled, resting her hand lightly on his. The fist uncurled slightly, which she took as a good sign.

“I appreciate your rightful anger but past is past.” He looked to her, Neon offering a slight smile. “And yeah I might never get this incident off my mind but the pressure’s somewhat off my chest since I was able to share it with you. What’s more is you didn’t judge me or criticize me or put me down. I appreciate that so much. And sadly, this is the reality we live in. Not everything goes the way we want it to and you being too late to save me might be one of that. Don’t beat yourself up over it; it’ll make me cry.”

Kurapika gave her a wan smile, nodding. “Is it okay if I hold your hand to squeeze in thanks and apology?”

Neon smiled, heart swelling in delight at how he asked permission. She nodded brightly, holding out the same hand used to assure him. Kurapika’s hand uncurled completely and gripped hers in a firm and tight hold, squeezing gently then letting go. Neon greatly welcomed his touch; it was warm and not at all foreboding.

“Thanks for being here with me tonight,” Neon said. “And also, since you kept pestering me about that apology,” he chuckled, “I will formally say sorry I insulted you about your money and status.”

“And let me once again apologize for not being there earlier,” she rolled her eyes but nodded, “and also getting so worked up about the issue on money. I realize I’m in the wrong that time. It’s just… I always felt like I didn’t have enough but I try my best to make ends meet. What with Council duties, my part-time job, paying rent, and making sure my housemate still lives a comfortable lifestyle, I didn’t take tips or anything too lightly.”

Wait… housemate?

“Ahh… you mentioned something about a housemate?” she asked, hoping she wasn’t prying too much into his life.

“Yes,” Kurapika confirmed. “It’s this rowdy twelve-year-old boy with white hair and a knack for causing trouble. He attends our school too and is in the seventh grade. His name is Killua Zoldyck.”

Oh… so that white-haired kid. Ohhh my gosh Neon you are so stupid for assuming things. Gah good thing he cleared it up before she asked and embarrassed herself. She smiled, dispelling her thoughts.

“Ahhh I see. Well I’m sure your best is enough and hey, if you need any financial help or anything, please don’t hesitate to ask me. I wasn’t boasting about my riches but I’d really like to help out a friend if he really is struggling.”

Kurapika smiled and nodded.

“I will keep you in mind, Neon.”

“Ahh now he’s finally learning to accept help, even if it is financial support,” Neon couldn’t help but sigh dramatically, Kurapika’s jaw dropping. But then his surprise melted so he could laugh, shoulders shaking as he placed a hand on his head. His positive reaction also made Neon giggle, happy she was able to elicit a laugh from him.

Chapter Text

“I am such an idiot.”

Killua paused in playing his game and turned to Kurapika, interested.

“Oh? I’ve never heard you describe yourself in that way before.” He sat up from his lying position on the couch and planted his sock-clad feet on the coffee table in front, eyes never leaving the blond. “Do tell me your woeful tale.”

Kurapika couldn’t help but glare at the kid, earning a snicker in response. He sighed and sat a few inches from the younger one, Killua bouncing at the added weight on the couch. But Killua was silent, which meant he was patiently waiting.

“She had actually been harassed before. If I had seen the man sooner and acted fast enough, she wouldn’t have had to experience such a thing again. Alas, I let my anger for her get in the way.”

Killua’s brow rose.

“Are we talking about Neon Nostrade, the same girl you’ve been complaining about for two weeks?”

“Yes, her.”

“My my my how the turn tables,” Killua teased, Kurapika giving him a flat look. Killua raised his arms in surrender and said, “Kidding. But how is it you’ve gone from talking about how she’s an acquaintance, to complaining about her because she was showing off her richness, to blaming yourself you’re the reason why she was molested? Dude, it ain’t nobody’s fault but that pervert psycho who thought it best to grope her ass in public.”

Kurapika released a long-suffering sigh and rubbed his forehead.

“Yes but I can’t help but think about it.”

“Okay let’s make it simpler: how does she feel about you not being able to save her?”

Kurapika looked to Killua and huffed through his nostrils. “She said past is past and she accepted how me not being there in time was just one thing about how reality is cruel and things don’t go as planned.”

Killua whistled low, Kurapika recognizing his whistle as one of Killua’s when he was impressed.

“Girl’s a realist, it seems. But there you have it: she doesn’t really mind. I don’t think she blames you either so why’re you stressing over this? You’re gonna give yourself gray hair at this rate.”

Kurapika exhaled heavily and rested his head at the back of the couch, stare directed to the ceiling. Soon enough Killua’s face popped up from the right, looking at him.

“Oh don’t give me that look, Killua.”

“What look?” laughed Killua, backing away. “I just want you to realize the girl doesn’t think less of you or anything. You chatted it up right after, didn’t cha?”

Leaning forward and looking back at Killua he said, “I didn’t want to leave her alone after such an incident. I was horrified already. What more for her since she was the victim? I feared for her safety I made sure she got home safely.”

“Oh so you accompanied her all the way to the mansion?”

Kurapika nodded in confirmation.

“Oooh so tell me how their big ol’ mansion looked.” Killua scooted closer to the blond. Kurapika frowned at his enthusiasm, Killua shrugging. “Dude c’mon I get bored. You gotta entertain me. So how’d their mansion look?”

“You can just search up the Nostrade Mansion in the internet, right?”

“Yeah but it ain’t the same since you’ve seen it in person.” Killua shook Kurapika’s shoulder and repeated, “Now spill.”

With a sigh, Kurapika gave in. “Well it’s like any other mansion. But on the golden gates leading to the compound, a large intricate ‘N’ for their surname stood proud in the middle. The paint was mostly off-white and with a well-maintained garden.” Then he turned to the younger boy, whose eyes were shining like stars. “Are you happy now?”

“Oh I’m satisfied all right.” Killua smirked. Then his face became more serious and he said, “Look, the gal seems like a tough nut and a headstrong one, so don’t go treating her any less or like she’s fragile with a sign saying ‘handle with care’. Trust me, girls hate it when they’re thought of as weak. Just go continue on like normal and don’t stress about it. She seems fine from what you tell me.”

Kurapika sighed through his mouth and dragged his hands across his face.

“Okay, okay. After all, we did talk in a nearby coffee shop and apologized to each other so we’re in good terms now.”

“Yeah that’s the spirit. Now can I go back to my game?”

Kurapika rolled his eyes and rested on the arm of the couch. “You’ll lose again anyway. But still, I enjoy seeing you suffer so go ahead.”

Killua blew a raspberry his way and continued the game, Kurapika watching with mild interest. Why did Killua have the best advice, really? He didn’t seem to have any problem with girls; or perhaps it was more attributed to the fact Kurapika had never seen Killua interact with girls his age.

Still, it was good insight. Neon didn’t want to be treated any less just because of that incident and Kurapika will respect that.

The book fair had gone great and Kurapika was extremely satisfied with the results and the money they were able to procure from the three days. Luckily Principal Netero agreed to the idea in the first place. Now all they had to do was split the funds; half of it would go to the school to stock up on materials and the half would be donated to a charity.

Admittedly, a few mishaps occurred such as a case of missing books, books with missing and or torn pages, and some books arriving last-minute because of a mix-up with the delivery trucks and whatnot. But still, the Student Council was able to take care of the troubles and make the book fair a whopping success.

As Kurapika took on the duty of making sure everything was being fixed and put into its proper order, Ponzu the Vice President scampered over to him with a pen and clipboard, a pleased smile on her lips.

“This year’s book fair was a success, Kurapika!” she reported giddily, handing him the clipboard. “I just need you to overlook all the details and the money we were able to gain from this. I was actually surprised some of the younger kids’ parents supported the fair and either bought books or donated money.”

Kurapika hummed, eyes scanning over the pages and signing the bottom with his signature.

“Everything seems to be in order Ponzu but if you don’t mind I’d like to double-check them before sending it to Netero.”

“Um no.” At Ponzu’s blatant refusal Kurapika turned to her in alarm. She giggled. “I’m not allowing you since we all know you’re a workaholic. I’ll just drag Pokkle to the nearby coffee shop and recheck everything from there. Then I’ll give it to Netero.” Before he could refuse she said while swiping the clipboard from his grasp, “Give yourself a break, Kurapika. If you don’t, I’ll tell Gon to drag you to some escape room so you’ll have no choice.”

He rolled his eyes, though a faint smile curled his lips upward. He supposed he could give himself some leeway so he nodded and acquiesced, “Since my VP so adamantly requested, I have no choice but to agree.”

“Yes!” Ponzu exclaimed, pumping a fist in the air. Kurapika chuckled. “You’ve worked hard enough. Get lots of rest bye!”

Then she ran away with a hop, hair flying about behind her. Kurapika watched her for a moment before sighing and chuckling, almost unable to believe the energy she had.

“Koibito?”

The new voice nearly made Kurapika jump out of his own skin, defenses ready and about to throw the person over his shoulder but he halted when he saw familiar blue eyes and hair, embarrassment creeping up his cheeks as he lowered his arms and shuffled awkwardly in his feet.

Neon giggled and Kurapika knew she had seen everything. Then he remembered her question and scrambled to answer.

“What? No, she’s not my lover. Ponzu is the Council Vice President so technically she’s my second-in-command,” Kurapika said, relaxing the more he talked with Neon. “You scared me there. Usually I have keen senses but I didn’t see you coming.”

“Hehe I tend to be quiet on my feet when I wanna sneak up on someone,” Neon said. “And also, congrats on the success of the book fair!”

Kurapika felt himself smile, nodding. “Yes thank you but it was impossible without the help of the others so really, I’m grateful to them too.”

“We should do something to celebrate!” Neon cheered, twirling in place. “Know a good place somewhere?”

“Ah sorry but I have to watch over the aftermath and ensure everything is in order.”

“Aww really?” Neon’s smile turned into a sad pout, Kurapika mentally kicking himself for making her frown. But he had a duty to accomplish and he didn’t want to leave the proceedings unsupervised.

“Yeah so—”

“Hey Kurapika you’re off!” Pokkle suddenly appeared, slapping Kurapika on the shoulder and causing the two to turn towards the General Affairs officer, who grinned and shot Neon a peace sign. This irked Kurapika somehow but knew Pokkle was a good soul so why was he getting irritated? Then Pokkle turned to him and said, “We’ve got everything handled, so you don’t have to worry.”

Before Kurapika could speak, Pokkle dragged him aside and hissed, “Are you really passing up a chance to be with the most beautiful and richest gal in our grade level?”

“Wha—but I still need to—”

“We’ve got you covered, Kurapika,” winked Pokkle. “Now go on that date.”

Kurapika raised a brow, silently asking Pokkle to repeat, though he couldn’t control the growing blush to the tips of his ears.

His reaction made Pokkle laugh, shaking his head. “You may not know it but the whole student body’s got their eyes on you two, me included.”

Kurapika narrowed his eyes, attempting to be menacing but knowing he was failing because his face still felt on fire.

“Don’t you have anything better to do, such as applying for prestigious colleges or something? We are in our last year of high school, after all.”

Pokkle chuckled and pushed Kurapika towards the waiting girl. “Y’know what, it doesn’t hurt to live in the moment, Kurapika. Who knows, maybe you might find some love along the way!”

He scowled hard Pokkle’s way before fixing his expression to smile pleasantly at Neon, who returned the gesture with her own bright smile.

Kurapika walked toward her and scratched his head. “Sorry about Pokkle. He set me aside to tell a joke. But he and Ponzu have a point: I have to live a little. So where do you want to go first?”

“Oh so you’re really coming with me?” Neon asked cheerily, buzzing with excitement. Kurapika only smiled and nodded once. This was enough to make Neon yell in happiness and grab his wrist with both her hands. “Ooh this is gonna be great! We’re gonna have a super fun time!”

And Kurapika slightly regretted agreeing. The glint in her eyes only made him uneasy.

And Neon’s view of celebrating was buying a lot of materialistic things. She might not have meant to, but Kurapika ended up carrying all the things she threw his way that remotely caught her attention. She had hoarded a considerable amount of clothes, accessories, and trinkets to the point he felt like a bodyguard. He tried keeping up with Neon’s speed but it was near impossible since she was zooming around, gushing and squealing about what she held and saw. Whenever she asked for his opinion, he could only say something half-heartedly and she was floating away once again, interest swept by some other thing.

They were like this for almost three hours until Neon finally realized what she had done, helping Kurapika sort out the items she wanted to buy and the ones she had no intention of keeping. She did offer to buy him a sweater or something but Kurapika declined politely. Neon didn’t push and went about, her credit cards swiping in little machineries and her purchases done for the day.

As he and Neon waited for her limo, she said, “Oh my gosh I’m so sorry I exhausted you there, Kurapika. I just get so intense whenever I’m in a mall. I hope I didn’t strain you too much.”

Kurapika honestly wanted to say she did but he smiled instead, keeping his lips sealed. He could feel a headache coming on. Shopping wasn’t something Kurapika would waste his time on but it was different on Neon’s case: she absolutely adored spending hours and hours in a mall as long as she had something to buy or gawk at.

“I could be better,” was his clipped response. The implication seemed to go over the girl’s head as she smiled and nodded enthusiastically. At this point Kurapika’s body was screaming for reprieve and he thanked the stars he had the mind to call Leorio to pick him up and bring him home. He didn’t feel up to par to taking the bus or any other public transport when he could fall asleep at any moment.

The familiar limo slowed down by the curb, Neon bouncing in anticipation as her bodyguard arrived and bowed in greeting.

“Ah Dalzollene you’re finally here. You took ages, y’know?”

“It’s only been like, ten minutes or so,” corrected Kurapika as the other man began loading the many shopping bags in the trunk.

Neon huffed. “Still too long. The minimum for me is two minutes and the max is five.”

Wow, she also had a different sense of time. Kurapika exchanged a look with Dalzollene, who nodded as if to say Yes, she’s like that.

“Wanna ride home?” Neon offered just before she went inside the limo.

Kurapika shook his head and answered, “I called a friend to pick me up. I’ll be fine.”

“Oh okay. Well, g’night Kurapika and congrats again on the book fair!” Neon said, climbing inside and letting Dalzollene close the door.

“Have a good evening,” Dalzollene said to Kurapika before going to the driver’s side.

Kurapika waved goodbye until the limo was long gone, legs aching and head pounding at the fatigue Neon had unknowingly caused. If shopping with her was something like this, then he didn’t think he would be able to withstand such long hours without collapsing at one point.

Soon, Leorio’s gray Toyota came into view, Kurapika sliding inside the passenger seat with a relieved sigh and bringing a hand to his forehead.

Snickering, Leorio drove off toward his house. “Bad day or something?”

“Not particularly.” Kurapika buckled his seatbelt. “A batch mate of mine unknowingly tired me out. Believe me, if I’d known she shopped like this I wouldn’t have come.”

“Oh it’s a girl,” Leorio said, eyebrows rising. “I didn’t know you talked to the ladies.”

Kurapika scoffed and rolled his eyes. “Oh please. You brag about women when I haven’t seen you charm one. And yes, girls are a somewhat part of my daily life but unlike you, I’m not out to win their affections.”

Leorio hummed and laughed. “You’re Student Council President, right? For sure you’re quite popular with the girls in your school, even in the lower batches.”

“Yes but I thought I already told you I’m not interested in those dating-related things?”

“Yeah you made it clear to me like, two years ago or something,” agreed Leorio, keeping his hands steady on the steering wheel. He shot Kurapika a quick glance and continued, “But hey, things change so I don’t know, maybe you’ve got your sights on a specific person, doesn’t matter if they’re lesbian, gay, non-binary, gender fluid—”

“Yes, yes Leorio I get what you mean,” Kurapika cut hurriedly, a blush coating his cheeks. He cleared his throat. “I’ll tell you when I find someone who catches my interest in a romantic way but I doubt it would happen anytime soon.”

Leorio chortled. “Man why do you hafta be so negative, eh? Sooner or later, hopefully sooner, you’ll find a person who’ll make you feel alive and loved. They’ll be on your mind and heart, the first and last thing you think about, and your whole world.”

Kurapika pursed his lips, the though somehow frightening to him. He has never been on such a level of feelings he felt his whole existence would gravitate around a specific person. He personally considered himself an ace since he hadn’t had anyone to stir such strong emotions on him but really he thinks he could be attracted to any person, provided their personality and character are compatible with his. He had never let anyone become so close after his whole family’s deaths, too afraid to feel such grief and sadness but somehow Gon, Killua, and Leorio managed to make him open up again. And when they did form their group of four, Kurapika had been more open and willing to socialize since then.

He shook his head to get back to the present. “Let’s see. But how about you, Leorio? How’s work and social life?”

“Oh going great so far,” Leorio enthused, and only then did Kurapika see he was still in scrubs. “Of course the work hours are such a pain in the ass but the patients—well most of them—are awesome. There’s the ones giving me headaches for weeks and then there’re the bearable ones.” After more driving, he finally stopped by Kurapika’s house. Then he turned to the blond. “Well here’s your stop. Oh and do me a favor and check for Gon for me, will ya? I can’t afford going home and back here since the gas is expensive.”

Kurapika chuckled, getting out of the car and nodding.

“Yes I’ll check for you. And thank you for the ride home.”

“No problem, my man,” Leorio said with a friendly wink that made Kurapika chuckle at his antics.

Kurapika walked to the front door and knocked, not the least bit surprised Gon opened the door. When Gon saw him he beamed wide, Kurapika smiling in return. “Good evening, Gon.”

“Hey Kurapika!” returned Gon enthusiastically, his smile somehow reminding Kurapika of Neon’s own wide smile. He shook his head to rid that thought. “Oh Leorio’s here. Ne, congrats on the success of the book fair! I’ll see you guys around!”

With a quick goodbye hug, Gon rushed towards Leorio’s car and jumped inside through the open window at the back, causing Leorio to shout, “OY don’t go through there, Gon! Use the car doors, for God’s sake!”

Kurapika chuckled softly, another softer laugh coming from inside the house. He turned to nod cordially at Killua, who went to stand beside him as they watched Leorio scold Gon, who stuck his tongue out in apology and rubbed his head.

“Baka!” Killua called, both Gon and Leorio turning to him. “Use your brain sometimes, yeah? And drive safely Ossan!”

“Brat!” Leorio called back to Killua, sticking his tongue out. “Well, we’re off!”

“Safe trip!” Kurapika called as both his friends waved as the car moved forward, Killua also waving his hands. Then he turned to the younger male. “I have a headache and I’m in desperate need of rest.”

As they entered the house, Killua whistled and said, “Wow what happened, man? I heard from Pokkle you and Neon Nostrade hit it off.”

Frowning and laying his whole body on the couch Kurapika said, “What does that mean? Well, we were supposed to celebrate the success of the book fair—”

“OH a date!” Killua said in realization as he sat on the carpeted floor near the other, Kurapika blushing and vehemently shaking his head. “Aw what? Then what was it?”

Kurapika took a moment to recollect his bearings, licking his lips to try and string together sentences. “Neon is a girl who immensely enjoys shopping. This led to me acting as her hanger for all the items she took a liking to. We ended up returning almost half and of course since she comes from a rich family, a mere swipe of a credit card was enough to pay for all her items.”

Killua snorted and rephrased, “So you were like some sort of butler or something? Man, that sucks.”

“She didn’t mean for it to happen but she has such an affinity for the mall she didn’t notice,” Kurapika said, rubbing his temples.

“Why’re you defending her?”

“No I’m not, I’m merely stating the obvious,” Kurapika sighed, turning toward the outside of the couch and exhaling. He shut his eyes, willing the stubborn headache to go away.

He heard Killua get up and rummage around the cabinets, Kurapika hearing a few clatters and his housemate muttering to himself. Soon enough Kuapika heard his voice saying, “Lay on your back.”

He hummed in question but Killua only repeated the same words. Kurapika found nothing wrong with the request and so obliged. A cold towel was placed over his eyes, a sigh of pleasure escaping his lips at how the pain seemed to diminish almost instantly.

“I’ve also got some Tylenol on the coffee table along with your usual coffee. Also, make sure the towel doesn’t stay on your head too long or else you’ll deal with more pain.”

Kurapika’s lips curved in a small smile at Killua’s concern and he said sincerely, “Thank you.”

He could already imagine Killua blushing, his pale cheeks tinted red. “N—no problem.” Then he heard his footsteps fade away and soon he was alone in the living room, nothing but peace and quiet after a long and exhausting day.

Chapter Text

Kurapika’s finger scrolled along the mouse, his palm becoming intimately familiar with the texture of the little gadget due to how long he’d been scrolling through the audit report Canary had sent him. He squinted and silently commended her for her organization skills and knack for including what she deemed important even when the rest of the Student Council disagreed. He chuckled quietly to himself when Ikalgo had said it wasn’t necessary; Canary had only glanced at him before promptly ignoring him and including it anyway. For that, Kurapika was thankful.

Running footsteps broke his concentration, already thinking of standing to reprimand the culprit. The door to their office burst open, met with the sight of a distraught and disheveled Pokkle, who leaned on the door and panted.

“Pokkle, what are you—”

“It’s Killua!”

Kurapika’s blood froze.

“Something happened and a crowd’s gathering in the gym!”

Kurapika’s body acted on autopilot, standing from his seat and making his way toward the door, Ponzu not far behind. The three of them walked briskly along the halls, Kurapika’s attention on Pokkle as he explained, “Some guy in the eleventh grade taunted Killua and now he’s closed in on himself. Gon’s trying to help but the older kids are pushing him around.”

“Of all places, why the gym?” His heart throbbed painfully in his rib cage, mind spinning with the endless possibilities on what Killua was going through.

Ponzu frowned. “Oh, it sounds bad. Let’s hurry!”

They reached the school gymnasium too slow for Kurapika’s liking, his eyes scanning through the cacophony of noise and spotting a loose crowd gathered to the far left, most students gawking and whispering amongst themselves. In the center of it all was Killua, head hung low, long hair covering his face, stance rigid. In front of him was a taller upperclassman taunting him. Near them was a crowd of three, two older students laughing as they held tight to a near-bawling Gon, worried for his friend.

“Leave him alone! You’re hurting him!”

Kurapika blinked. No, not Gon too. His eyebrows furrowed and after inhaling, he bellowed, “What is the meaning of this? Why are you harassing a seventh grader?”

All heads turned toward him, Kurapika striding forward with every ounce of authority and placing himself between Killua and the tall eleventh grader, who only chuckled and stepped back, hands raised in mock surrender.

“Chill out, Prez. No harm done.”

Behind him, he heard Killua whisper, “No, I’ll be good from now on. Stop, please.”

His words, accompanied by the soft whimper with which he said it, made Kurapika’s hard exterior waver but he held firm to his stance of a straight back and spread legs, subtly reminding everyone present he was in charge. His gaze slanted toward the other two who held Gon, both boys releasing him and causing the young seventh grader to stumble forward.

“Whoops!” one of them snickered. Gon, face screwed in a disapproving scowl, picked himself up and scooted away from the two upperclassmen.

“Physically cornering a student younger than you could have some repercussions on your record,” Kurapika began slowly. The eleventh grader momentarily stiffened before adopting a relaxed stance. He surveyed the students looking at him, waiting with bated breath. “This isn’t a concert. Your classes are done for the day. So unless you want to stay behind in detention,” his chin lowered and his voice dropped, bordering on threatening, “leave. Now.”

He and his three buddies merely scoffed, unfazed.

He wanted so bad to crouch in front of Killua and guide him through his panic attack but knew it would be fruitless with this large a crowd still lingering and whispering among themselves, their eyes on his every move. He clenched his teeth to hide his frustration, trying to contain the urge to whack the guy in the face.

Then Shizuku’s voice came from a loudspeaker.

“You heard the President! Everyone, get out of the gym or we will be forced to collect your names and send them to Netero! You’re staying after school hours.”

Most everyone was still reluctant to leave but perked up again once Feitan snatched the loudspeaker and cleared his throat.

“If you don’t move it, I’ll personally take care of you.”

That elicited the horde of students to scramble toward the doors after his ominous warning, nearly stepping over Ponzu and Pokkle who hadn’t moved from their spots. Kurapika met Ponzu’s eye, and without exchanging a word, she seemed to understand what he wanted to do because she was ushering out the other Council members, grabbing Shizuku’s wrist and lightly pushing at Palm’s back while animatedly chatting about her latest ecological project.

In the distance, Kurapika heard Canary’s hard voice asking, “And why are you loitering in the hallways? Do you want detention?”

Once the noise and chatter had died down along with the suffocating expectance of eyes upon him, Kurapika whirled around and dropped to Killua’s height, looking up at him and seeing emptiness in his eyes. His posture was still rigid, veins straining against his paper-white skin and cold sweat running down his temple. He looked about ready to snap, his fight-or-flight instinct kicking in and rendering him unable to decipher friend from foe.

Kurapika inhaled shakily, channeling the inner caretaker in him.

“Killua, can you hear me?”

Killua’s response was to bite his lower lip hard.

Without keeping his eyes off Killua, he said, “Gon, get him something to drink.”

“On it!”

And Gon’s footsteps scampered away.

“Killua, listen to my voice. It’s me, Kurapika. Come back to me, honey.”

Killua’s Adam’s apple bobbed as he swallowed. His eyes were still blank. Kurapika knew he couldn’t touch him, not when he was this out of it. He might lash out and hurt himself.

“I need you to take one deep breath for me, can you do that?” A subtle shake of the head. Kurapika inched closer, ignoring the crack in his knees. “Try one deep breath. That’s all. Please?” He paused and licked his lips. “For me?” A flicker of light passed by Killua’s pupils as he struggled to take in a breath, chest expanding in a stutter before exhaling. “Okay, that’s a start. It’s good.”

Killua nodded, the movement small.

“Okay next: I’m going to ask you questions and you can say no if you don’t wanna answer. You ready?” He received a shallow breath and a jerky nod. Kurapika took care not to accidentally touch him. “Okay what is your name?”

Tense silence. Killua’s fists clenching. “K—Killua.”

“Who is your best friend?”

The answer came almost immediately.

“Gon.”

And his posture was loosening, shoulders rolling back and breaths coming in almost rhythmically.

He heard a happy noise behind him, Kurapika turning to see a beaming Gon with chocolate milk in a carton and a bottle of iced tea. Kurapika shot him a short smile before focusing back on Killua.

“You’re doing so great. Take another breath? I’ll do it with you.”

And they both inhaled through their noses, Kurapika keeping in tune to Killua’s own pace, slowing down when Killua couldn’t and picking up quickly when the younger kid’s breathing quickened. They continued breathing in sync, until Killua extended his arms, fingers trembling. Kurapika offered his own hands, briefly squeezing the smaller pair. It was okay now to do so. He wouldn’t spiral again.

When Killua opened his eyes again, the light was back. They exchanged soft smiles.

“Good?”

Killua nodded with a grunt. “Good.”

Gon approached slowly, the smile on Killua’s face growing the closer Gon got. Killua’s hands slipped easily from Kurapika’s, and the two best friends were chattering up a storm like before. Kurapika stood from his kneeling position and turned, jolting in shock once he realized Neon Nostrade was a few meters ahead of him, waving shyly.

The younger boys glanced at her before going on their merry way, Gon calling back, “I’ll stay the night, Kurapika!”

“Okay!” And his attention turned back to Neon, who handed him a bottle of iced tea like what Gon was holding a while ago.

“He told me to give this to you.”

Kurapika hesitated for a moment before taking it with a small smile of thanks. Their fingers brushed and his palm could feel where she had held the bottle, still warm from her touch. He blinked; why was he lingering on such things?

They stood near in each other in awkward silence. How much did she witness? Had she seen all that? He didn’t know what to feel about her potentially seeing everything in his moment with Killua, but his collar was oddly tight around his throat, almost as if he was choking.

“So…” His eyes snapped to hers before going back to the bottle, intensely focused on uncapping it (mostly to avoid making eye contact with her). “That was… different.”

He raised a brow, silently encouraging her to go on. Neon blinked at him before registering the unspoken cue and she continued, “I didn’t mean it in a bad way or—or what. I just, you were amazing!” She turned to him then, stars in her eyes. “I personally would’ve lost myself and panicked even more but you… you’re like a natural! You just… know!” Kurapika observed her, taking note how she’d use her arms to wildly gesticulate when words failed her. She looked at him again, this time more probing and curious. “How do you do that?”

Kurapika sipped his tea in lieu of an answer. He didn’t know what to say. But he supposed it wasn’t a harmful question, merely an honest query.

“Expanding knowledge through reading and immersing oneself in sensitive topics is… one way to go about it. And I’ve seen how Killua was before when someone would touch him without his knowledge or consent.” He made a disapproving noise in the back of his teeth. “It did not bode well.”

Neon frowned, as if not understanding something. “How come when you do it, it’s like you’re a natural?”

Kurapika couldn’t help the small grin curling his lips upward.

“It doesn’t come naturally, no. But with practice and a deeper understanding on the person who’s going through it.”

She nodded slowly, like she was absorbing new knowledge (which was probably the case).

“What happened to him that made him like that?” Neon asked, eyebrows knitted and large eyes taking in every detail of him, as if wanting to read the answer from his glass mind.

He couldn’t stop the tension building in his shoulders but knew she had caught the way his shoulders rose, as if in defense. He cleared his throat and again took a swig from the bottle.

“I’m sorry—” he didn’t feel it, no— “but that’s confidential information kept among a select few, me included.”

“Aw what? Top secret information?” He nodded. Neon huffed and puffed. “Oh, it makes me wanna know more now!” He smiled and raised his hands, as if saying his hands are tied and couldn’t do anything about it.

“Unless he gives me permission to tell other people.”

Neon stopped mid-rant to look at him, eyes shining. Oh no, what had he said?

“Ohh which means…” Neon came closer. Kurapika could smell her perfume, its scent cloying and unforgiving upon his nostrils, “if Killua and I are friends, you’ll tell me his secret?”

Panic bubbled up in his throat, but he couldn’t focus on it as Neon skittered away from him (taking that oppressive perfume scent with her yet lingering in his nostrils) and laughed, high and jolly like she’d discovered a secret code. And maybe she had, because of what he said. Kurapika cursed his mouth for being so loose around her. He’d fed her small details and she’d shown intention, albeit teasing, of following through. Dangerous… he’d let himself slip unknowingly.

“Well ah… we don’t know about that,” was what he settled on saying, unsure on what answer to give. “Killua takes a while to warm up to a new person.”

Neon paused then, as if contemplating something. She smiled, though it was directed at the ground, and it didn’t reach her eyes. It wasn’t fake per se, but something was amiss.

“I envy you, Kurapika.”

The short and honest submission made him blink. “Excuse me?”

Neon met his eyes. Something sad swirled in her gaze; it tugged at his heartstrings, for some reason. She opened her mouth and closed it, seeming to debate with herself before continuing softly, “You’ve got such strong friendships to nourish, where you love them and they love you back and I’ve… well, I’ve got myself.” She must have seen something in his face because she held up a finger, a little bit of her spunk coming back as she added, “No pity! Or comfort! I can handle it.” Kurapika kept his mouth shut and gave a resolute nod. She seemed to relax. “Well, I guess I just want to experience some closeness from someone else myself. I’m not exactly a strong… eh what’s the word? I’m not… good at socializing.”

He could empathize with her on that part. He nodded and said as much.

“I feel you. I’m also not the type of person who’d chat anyone up just because. That is more Gon’s strength. And in friendships, we all have our strengths and weaknesses.” He smiled slightly. “It’s just a matter of figuring them out and finding a place where you are accepted wholeheartedly.”

Neon smiled wider, seeming comforted by his words.

“I’d like to be a safe place where you can explore that.”

“Wait what?” Neon stood there, hands clasped to her chest like a prayer unanswered from before now being given a tangible reply. Her eyes drew him in, hopeful and open and very much raw Kurapika couldn’t look away. “You—you’d do that?” her voice dropped to a whisper, as if in awe.

Kurapika didn’t know what invisible force caused him to offer, but he liked to believe he was a boy of his word and nodded to confirm. “This is what friends do.”

Neon laughed, loud and uninhibited, mouth hanging open as her body shook with hysterics. Kurapika didn’t know whether to tell her off for her noise or call someone to help but he couldn’t help but stare, almost as if drawn to her energy and her reactions, with her experiencing it and rippling toward anyone nearby they felt it tenfold. Then she bent over and wiped at her eyes, giggling, “Kurapika, you are so… sincere.” She straightened, the last of her laughter leaving her, and grinned. “I like it.”

Oh no, was he blushing? Why was he blushing? He cleared his throat and busied himself by taking another mouthful of the iced tea, now more tea than iced, and averted his eyes from her. What a strange girl. And what strange effects she was pulling from him. He wasn’t one to lose composure so quickly, but today, it was fraying and fizzing in all directions.

“Well, I oughta be going home now.” In a flurry of colors and movement, they were both out of the gym, the afternoon rays bathing the hallways in oranges and blues. “You too, I believe.”

“Yes, yes.” He was so distracted by her. He had to snap out of it.

And when they exited the school grounds, Neon squeaked in delight as she saw a pink, glittery convertible in park, the driver a petite blonde wearing sunglasses too large for her face. Neon hurried toward the car, the driver perking up and smiling wide.

“Oh Neon darling, fashionably late as always.”

“A—Aunt Bisky?”

Kurapika slowed his pace, quietly watching the two interact. Neon rested her hand on the passenger seat, upper body leaning forwards to take a longer look at the driver.

“You—how’d you know—?!”

“Oh honestly girl, what do you take me for? Now come in come in, and we’ll zoom right on by.” Her eyes, a deep shade of pink and penetrating and a tad too knowing, peeked from her sunglasses as they fleetingly flicked over Kurapika’s form. She was smiling disarmingly at him by the time he blinked, and he wondered if he’d imagined her laser stare at him. Nonetheless, his body tensed at being looked upon like she knew something he didn’t. “And who is this hunky young man?”

Neon laughed. “Oh Auntie, this is my friend Kurapika.” She turned to him, grin wide. “Kurapika, this is my Aunt Bisky: fabulous and fashionable in all the right ways.”

Kurapika tilted his head in a stiff nod, nerves alight with stranger danger and fists unconsciously curling, rendering him unable to hold his hand out for a proper handshake. The hair at the back of his nape stood on end. He didn’t want to get closer to her. He didn’t want to subject himself to her keen gaze, however friendly she appeared to be.

Bisky took it in stride and hummed, unlocking the lock to the passenger side and ushering Neon in once again with a manicured hand. The girl settled herself giddily and bid another goodbye to Kurapika, who managed a smile before they took off. This time, he didn’t notice Bisky’s eyebrow raising before she drove off in a speed that shouldn’t be allowed upon school grounds.

Alas, they were gone, leaving Kurapika’s heart to pound incessantly in his ribcage, mind whirring from the bizarre interaction. In the distance, the sun sunk further over the horizon, casting the surroundings in long shadows.