Chapter Text
“Darling? Darling!” Your mother’s voice echoed within the room of the hair salon. You felt yourself flinch, your hair stylist noticed as quickly placed a hand on your shoulder. “Over here, mother.” You say as your mother hurried, an overpriced pirkin bag on one arm as she strutted towards you in red bottom rouboutins’. “There you are darling, I’ve just received word from your manager, your time slot has been pushed back.”
“What? Pushed back? I thought I was wearing the main centerpieces?” You asked.
“You are darling! You are the star of the show, all these other girls will just be showing off the other new but slightly mundane dresses. You will be Scarovski’s main masterpieces of the season- perhaps of the century!” Your mother laughed, her cheeks going red. “I can’t believe it, me and your grandmother have been dreaming of this day since you were born! All your other shows were just child’s play- but this is the one you will be remembered for!”
“The other’s sure didn’t feel like child’s play.” You said and she waved you off.
“Never mind that dear, just make sure those stylists put your hair back, afterall, you’ll be wearing those diamond earrings with the dress.”
“Of course.”
Your mother swiftly left and you sigh. Being a model was not easy.
It wasn’t like you actively chose to be a model, your grandmother started it off when she was scouted in her twenties, making a splash in the fashion world, then it was your mother who inherited your grandmother’s beauty and grace, marrying a filthy rich billionaire who was ten years older than her. Then you, starting off a lot earlier than both your mother and grandmother, fashion magazines like Belle and Xogue. Not only the daughter of a successful businessman but a majestic model.
You were put on a diet as soon as you hit ten years old. The fashion industry was ruthless, some girl’s got it worse than you but thankfully you had the protection of your family and two mature models who knew what they were doing. You trained everyday, constantly under pressure from all to keep fit and clean and while the benefits of success did make themselves apparent, what you wouldn’t give to just throw it away for one day, not having to wear designer brands every day and just walk about in some plain joggers and a oversized tee, those look comfy.
You wanted to stuff your face and have a field day.
“Am I allowed to smoke here?” You ask the attendant, a girl with pink hair was sweeping the floor of hair on the ground. She looked around, unsure. “I don't think so.”
“Damn it…” You scoff, taking a nicotine patch out of your purse and laying it down on your arm. It could have been worse, for a while, you were on cocaine until your grandmother caught you doing a line in your bedroom with other fellow models and smacked the shit out of you. You could still hear her screeching in your ear, something about you ruining your life but what was the point? You are twenty now and your mother would always say the height of every model’s career ends when she is twenty five, what would you do then?
You were never very good at school, you were more often in the studio posing for designers and walking runways then you were in school, it still surprises you to this day that you were able to graduate. Your dad may have had something to do with that but that doesn’t matter.
Your only hope now is to become a trophy wife just like your mom and grandma, find a man who is pathetic enough to bow down to you and live a comfortable life. Did you really want that?
Then again, it's not like you have a choice in the matter…..
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“Sugar plum, where are you heading? Your show is in three hours.”
“I’m going for something to eat, I last ate at 7 this morning.”
“No! Don’t, wait until after the show dear, otherwise you won’t fit into your dress.” Your grandma said over the phone as you stopped in your tracks. Here you were on your way to the mall so you could locate your favorite dumpling spot, but food was now out of the question? “But Granny- I’m only going for something small- it's not like the dress won’t fit me for having a bit of food-”
“No! Out of the question, this is the biggest night of your life and we can’t risk you not fitting into that dress!”
“But I’ve already done the fitting- me eating won’t change that.”
“Child, when I tell you not to do something, you do it!”
“But Granny-”
“Tell me where you are and I’ll have the team come pick you up-” Next thing you knew, your phone was snatched from you, your heart in your throat- you spun around to see a man looking down at you with a smile. “Child- are you listening to me?! (Y/n)-” The man pressed the hang up button and smiled. “There, that's better, isn’t it?”
“W-who are you?! Give me back my phone!” You squealed, reaching your arms up to take your device back, but he was taller by you and held it out of your reach with ease. “Come on now, atleast ask nicely~”
“You can’t just take people’s phones- I was having a conversation with someone-”
“Telling someone not to eat when they’re already skinny enough, sounded like a conversation that needed to stop.”
You froze up. “H-how did you-”
“Your phone was on speaker, I’m sure everyone could hear you.” He chuckled and a massive blush formed on your face. “D-...really?” You asked shyly, covering your mouth, you felt like an idiot, he simply chuckled, a charming grin before he handed you back your phone. “I have to say, you really are pretty, would you like to go to dinner with me?”
“Oh sorry- I- I’m on bit of a time crunch right now- I was planning to go somewhere really quick-”
“Then it’ll be a quick lunch date, I’ll pay.” He said, his eyes possessed a gentle nature, it intrigued you and he did just say he would pay. “Okay, yeah sure, but only for an hour, is that alright?” He wasn't unattractive, you’ve always had a difficult time in the dating game simply because you could never meet someone who was attractive enough to attract you. That may sound mean to others but your mother and Grandma always said ‘Tens should only be with tens, the last thing you want is to give a nine or eight a chance- else he might think he is also a ten!’
“That's perfect, you lead the way.” He smiled. The man had thick black hair with a green bandana covering his forehead. He had on a black v neck with sleeves rolled up to his elbows with some grey dress pants, a pair of green dioptase orb earrings that hung below his earlobes and dark eyes that peered into your soul, but not is a predatory way- more of a friendly and welcoming way. In fact, he looked a lot like this one guy your fellow model was sleeping with as a friends with benefits type situation but the last thing you wanted was anyone’s sloppy seconds.
You lead the man to an abandoned mall where many restaurant stalls popped up. You ordered some pan fried pork buns and some soup dumplings.The man came back with two cups of beer and looked down at the feast you had got. “Wow, at first I thought this place looked kinda fishy but the food looks pretty good.”
“I know right? But it's always the dingy looking places that serve the best food, don’t you think” The man sat down and gave you your beer. “I’m Chrollo by the way, it's nice to meet you.” An odd name but one that seemed to suit him, a unique name for a handsome man, he had your interest so you would indulge him.
“I’m (Y/n), nice to meet you too. So are you new to ‘york new’ or are you a regular?” You smiled, lightly sipping your beer. He shrugged. “My job demands that I travel so I’m always coming by every now and again.”
“Oh really? Are you a hunter of some kind? I’d love to travel someday.”
“Hahaha! No, no. I’m not a hunter, but I am flattered you think I’m one. What do you do?”
“Okay… so it may not look like it… but I’m actually a model…” You smiled. Chrollo looked you up and down, giving you a relaxed smile. “Can’t say I’m surprised, you’re beautiful, besides, your clothes are from Cashmere so that gives it away.” He chuckled, and what caught your attention was that he knew the brands that you were wearing, upon further examination on your part, you noticed he was wearing Kalvin Clein and Yevi’s, so he was also a man of fashion culture, you could respect that.
“Yeah, I know. I grew up wearing heels and skirts but some days I really just wanna wear some sweatpants and some sneakers, does that sound weird?” You ask. Chrollo looked shocked to hear that. “What? Is that weird? Girls wear those clothes all the time and you think it's weird? From what I know, heels are not the most comfortable shoes.”
“They aren’t, but my mother and granny say I must always look my best.”
“Was that one of them on the phone? Telling you not to eat?”
“I honestly don’t understand what the big deal is, I train and exercise everyday so a few calories wont kill me. My granny even suggested I get a Gastrectomy soon- and I’m here thinking they won’t even let me enjoy food!”
“It's certainly overkill on their part, but surely the job isn’t too bad, you get to wear all those clothes and you have the attention and love of everyone you meet.” He said. That part was certainly true, you have a bit of a cult following on social media. Girls and boys idolize you from all corners of the globe, wanting to live your life, wanting to wear your skin and clothes and imagine what it was like to be a wealthy and beautiful socialite. Your PR team puts out good pictures but you only do the modeling before retreating into your little cave and watching funny dog and cat videos.
“True, I actually have a show tonight, I’ll be modeling this new dress and jewellery for Scarvoski.”
“Scarvoski? Wow, that is impressive, do you have any idea what you’ll be wearing?”
“Yeah, let me pull up a pic for you.” You say giddy with excitement as you scroll through your phone before handing it to him. “Wow, you really are stunning!” he smiled. The dress in question was a beautiful silver and blue dress. The top was made up of 6000 tiny crystals that gave you a sweetheart neckline and exposed your shoulders, going all the way down your arms and stopping at the back of your hands, the Crystals at the bottom disappeared showing louis blue chiffon skirt that flowed gracefully and showed your long legs, a slit in the side so your leg can pop out.
“The dress- ugh, I had to wear this thin and sheer fabric that was skin tight and it took hours for the designers to place and clue each individual diamond onto the bodice and sleeves.”
“A bit much for a dress, wouldn’t you say?” Chrollo chuckled. You nodded. “I’ll say- but it's not like I could say that- granny would’ve just smacked me upside the head and told me not to be ungrateful- I guess it could be worse, no?”
“Is that all you’ll be wearing?” He asked and you shook your head. “No- Scarvoski actually has this other thing he wants me to wear- I have a diamond necklace as if the dress wasn’t enough! I haven’t seen it yet but supposedly- it's to be the centerpiece of the whole outfit.”
A small smirk played on his lips. “I see…”
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You step out of the taxi, attempting to hand Chrollo some cash before he places his hand up.” No need, I have it covered.” He smiled
“Are you sure?” You questioned. He merely smiled. “Thanks a lot, I had a good time. You have my number, let's do this again sometime!” You smiled as you quickly made your way on to the path. “Yeah! Lets!” Chrollo called as the cab drove off. You quickly made your way into the building where you were immediately swatted by assistants and photographers, and reporters.
“(Y/n)! (Y/n) do you have anything to say about tonight's show?””
“(Y/n)- were these diamonds ethically sourced?!”
“Come on people- move it! There will be no show if she can’t make it!” You were hastily led into an elevator where you and your team began to list off your schedule. “You need to have your make up done- then we’ll fit you into your dress!”
You made it to your studio, there your granny and mother were waiting for you. “Darling! Where have you been? How could you hang up on your grandmother like that?” Your mother barked but you simply walked past her and let the makeup team go to work. First pinning your hair back so they could prime your face. Starting off with foundation and concealer, then with your bronzer, highlighter and blush. They did your eyeshadow and laced your eyelids with rhinestones before finishing them with eyeliner and mascara.
Your lips were lined before they were painted a crimson red. They fixed your hair before your team helped you into the dress. It was a beautiful dress, it shined and radiated. They aided you in slipping on your diamond encrusted heels, six inches by the way. Your earrings were gently placed in and dozens of rings with rocks of all different shapes and sizes were slid onto your fingers and a knock was heard at your door.
“(Y/n), darling! The star of my show! It is almost your time, are you ready?” Scarvoski sang as you nodded your head. “Yeah- I’m ready.”
“No you're not- you’re missing something!” he cackled as his assistant brought forward a box, it opened and inside the box was possibly the largest rock you had ever seen. It was a big necklace, wrapping around your neck and dipping between your breasts with individual diamonds holding it together with the big stone at its centre.
However, from where you were standing, there seemed to be a strange aura radiating from the rock, while everyone stared in awe and delight at the rock, there was something about the object that seemed….wrong. “Are you sure this is a good….idea?”
Scarvoski looked at you as if you were crazy. “Don’t be daft darling- come now, it's time to make history!”
Your hair was lifted as Scarvoski got behind you and clasped the necklace tightly. “You are the first person ever to wear such a necklace- my darling you will be remembered for the rest of time!” He announced. Everyone clapped at the sight of you, a living masterpiece, your mother shed a few tears before you were led over to the runway, once the last model had exited the stage, a few people clapped, thinking the show was over- but the stage lights hit the entrance and that's when you knew it was time to go.
You swiftly made your way onto the stage, popping a hip out before commencing your catwalk, something you had practiced and performed a million times over, the diamond of the season. You slide across the stage, one foot at a time while your hips move left and right while keeping your back straight and chin up. Cameras flashed all around you while you made your way forward, everyone clapped and cheered.
It was at times like this- you remember why you do what you do. For the fantasy- for passion of beauty and craft. A symbol for others to look up and dream. You were beauty, the first thing that comes to people’s minds when they think of beauty. You were in your prime and there was absolutely nothing anyone could do to take that away from you.
You blow a kiss to the crowd and smile before turning around with the intent to walk back to the stage. “Give it up for (Y/n) Devereaux -” Pitch black. The whole room went pitch black and all of a sudden you couldn’t see. You could hear gasps. “Who turned the lights off?!” One voice said. Now you were beginning to get scared, for one, you were wearing 6 inch heels and a long dress. You were still on the runway and couldn’t see where you were and one wrong step and you would be sent falling from the stage.
“Uhh… guys- a little help here…!” You cried, carefully lifting up your skirt so you.
“AGGGHHHHH!!!!!!” A woman screamed and the main lights were back on. One of the important guests lay by the stage in a pool of her own blood, not moving. “AGH!” You screamed, stepping as far as you could without falling off the stage. At that moment, everyone had scattered into different directions. The whole show was thrown into chaos as you could only stand there, scared and confused. “What is going on?!” You cried.
“Lady (Y/n)!” One of your bodyguards hopped onto the stage, a gun in hand. “Yancy!” You cried. He took your arm and pulled you close. “Quickly miss, we need to evacuate!” He commanded as the two of you ran towards the back stage.
“Nuh Uh.” Said a shallow voice. Suddenly, there were two figures before you. A pink haired woman who looked like a ninja and raven haired man, smaller than you with a dark look on his face. She held a set of knives while the man had an umbrella on him. “Hand over the girl- or you will die.” The smaller man said. Yancy shoved you behind him and pointed his gun. Sweat running from his brow- you didn’t know why, but something radiated from these people- something dense and powerful, it made you feel sick. “Lady (Y/n), run away-!”
Yancy’s head came rolling off his shoulders as a tall man swept forward, a katana in hand. “Enough playing around! Grab the girl and let's go!” He barked. You screamed, terror coursing through your body before you turned on your heel and attempted to run away, gathering your skirts, you tried to run down the stage-
*Boom!*
A large man appeared before you, spiky hair with sideburns and bushy brows. He wore a white tanktop and black shorts as well as an assortment of furs that acted as a kilt, leg warmers and a small cloak. He smirked, looking down at you, crossing his big hairy arms. “Now where do you think you’re going~?”
You let out a scream- trying to step away from him but he quickly scooped you up in his arms and tossed you over his shoulders. “Come on now- let's get going!” He cackled. The next thing you know, the group of thugs rush down the halls with you. His shoulder going into your stomach again and again, fear filling your being as you reached out to the crowd in front of you. “SOMEBODY HELP ME!” You squealed.
You never thought this would ever happen- sure you’ve had a few stalkers here and there but your dad always got rid of them before anything became too serious- but this? You were being fucking abducted! The group had flown past your mother who looked like she had seen a ghost- point over at you. “MY BABY! Someone stop them- they have my baby!” She cried, the guards had tried to catch up with you but it was no use, whoever these people were, they were far stronger and much faster than the security personnel. Despite your struggles, the man's large hand kept a firm grip on your back as you all exited out of the building through the back door, there a car was waiting, a blonde fellow quickly got out of the car and held it open.
“Ladies first~!” He smiled. The big man dropped you back into his hands and smirked. “In ya go!”
“Gagh!” The next thing you knew, you were chucked into the backseat of a car, another girl catching you. “Careful guys!” She warned. She wore a casual top and jeans. She had on a big pair of classes and a cross around her neck. “You guys go on, we’ll meet you once we lose their tail!” the man with the katana said as the blonde hopped into the car and you drove off.
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“Who are you people?! What do you want- money- I don’t have any on me right now- please, just don't hurt me!” You cried, hiding your head in your hands. The blonde merely laughed joyously as if it were a funny joke. “Hurt you? We’d never hurt you Miss (Y/n)! You’re way more valuable to us undamaged!” You weren’t sure if you should feel relieved or more worried by the sentence. The boy proceeded to pull out a small poster- it was you when you were eighteen, you wanted to boost your career now that you were a fully fledged adult and to do that, you took part in the Lenora’s Secret Fashion show.
Your hair was in a low bun and you wore a long black dress with a slit up the side, revealing your leg in a stocking, garter and six inch heel. You wore three sets of pearls, thick black sunglasses, long sheer lace gloves and a pair of large angel wings that dragged behind you. “By the way- could I have your autograph please?”
“Tell me you didn’t kidnap me just to get an autograph!” You barked, your face going red with anger.
That made the boy laugh even more. “Of course not silly- but don’t you know how much this photo of you would cost with your autograph? We'll get billions of jennies for it!”
“What is it that you people want? You gonna hold me ransom? It won’t work- my father has connections everywhere in this city- they will find me!” You yell. The driver in the front seat laughed at that, he was older than you, maybe in his mid to late twenties, his yellow hair slicked back, no visible eyebrows, wearing a green, red and white tracksuit. He looked back at you for a second, stopping the car at a red light. “Hold you ransom- sure that sound like a good idea- you’re surely worth that much in your daddy’s eyes- but you aren’t what we want- you’re just the unfortunate soul that's wearing what we want~”
“That's enough Phinks, let us not spoil the surprise.” The man in the passenger seat smiled, looking back at you, your blood began to boil, his face. His hand and charming face- staring back at you. “CHROLLO!” You roar, you were so unbelievably pissed- him taking your phone- taking you to dinner- chatting you up and flirting with you- “It was you! You were scoping me out weren’t you- you tricked me!” Your teeth grinded and your blood pressure began to rise.
“Well to be fair, you didn’t make it difficult for me. I heard many sources about who was gonna wear the necklace- that date with you was just to confirm you were Scarvokski’s star.” He smiled politely.
“I could STRANGLE you!” You scream, tears peaking from the corners of your eyes and you hold your hands out in a threatening way but a hand from your right grabs your wrist. The girl beside you grips it tightly, looking right out at you with dark eyes. “You will not threaten the boss.”
“Agh!- let me go!” You gasped, the blood flow getting cut off from your hand and you struggled to get away from her grasp. “Shizuka, be a dear and let her go.” Chrollo smiled. The girl didn’t think twice to let go and you snatched your arm away. “Sorry boss.”
“OW! My wrist- you broke it!” You cried, cradling your bruising arm. Her grip was unnaturally strong, she didn’t look much older than you, she didn’t even look like she had a lot of muscle under that thin black turtleneck sweater and yet the bruising on your wrist said otherwise. “Lemme see.” The blonde boy asked, carefully taking your arm and observing. “Don’t worry- it's not broken, more like sprained, you’ll live.”
The car continued to drive until you had stopped at some kind of abandoned industrial park. The car parked right outside a warehouse, all of them had gotten out of the car and the older man was the one to pull you out. “No funny business or you’ll regret it.”
“Okay!” You gasp, using your free hand to lift up your skirt as you all enter the building. The place was old and damp save for the parts that weren’t covered by the roof. The first figure you see is a large man with a scarred up face and super long earlobes, he wore a pair of denim dungarees and a large white coat with a triforce symbol. Next to him was a woman with short blonde hair, she wore a business suit with a short skirt, pink blouse and matching flats.
There was a short man who wore a long dressing gown and had long flowing silver locks, you could only see his eyes, and the other man was dressed head to toe in badges. He had on boxing boots, a pair of boxing gloves and a pair of red shorts.
The last man nearly gave you a heart attack. “So- is this the little muse we’ve been hearing about~?”
“Play nice, Hisoka, you might scare her.” Chrollo smiled, walking past you to sit down.
The man had his hair all flamed up, on one cheek was a star and the other a tear. Everything about him screamed jester, joker- clown. You fucking hated clowns, ever since you saw that one movie as a child with the murderous clowns running about and murdering children. It was terrible. “Go on- get moving!” the blonde man snapped, giving your shoulder a light shove. He walked you over to a small cage, big enough for a small bear, he opened it and shoved you inside. “Ah!” You cried, the cage was locked behind you and found yourself stuck.
“You can’t do this!” You argued, gripping the bars of your enclosure. Your undamaged arm squeezing so tight, you thought you’d break a nail. “This police will find me-- and when they do- all of you are gonna be in jail for the rest of your lives!” You yell.
This however- got a lot of them chuckling. “That's gotta be the least threatening thing I’ve ever heard. Us, Jail?” The woman smirked, crouching down to make eye contact with you. “Honey, there is no prison that can hold us.”
You backed up against the cage, as far away from the criminals as you possibly could where you tucked your knees to your chest.
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You were shivering by the time the last four came back, the pinked hair ninja, the small man in black, the man in the sarashi and the large man that seemed more beast than man. You had to stick a finger between your teeth to stop the chatter from echoing inside the building. Not just because you were frightened but because of how cold it was. Your dress was created for fashion, not function so the thin layers of your skirts and the thousands of diamonds that sat perfectly on the thin layer of fabric did nothing to grant you any warmth or comfort.
But then again- that was what you were trying to display when you were walking down that runway.
Cold, elegant- perfection.
“You guys are finally back!” The blonde haired boy smiled as they entered. The pinked haired girl shrugged her shoulders before folding her arms. “Have you started yet?” She asked. The boy merely shook his head. “Nah, we were waiting for you to get back- didn’t want to start without you.”
“My- how thoughtful.” The man in the sarashi said as he and the pink haired girl wandered over to your cage, at first, you didn’t recognise her- but then. “You- you were the assistant at the hairdressers…!”
“Yeah, that was me.” She answers nonchalantly.
“How long have you people been watching me for? You had all those opportunities to take me when you had the chance- so why at the show?”
“Did you not remember what we told you earlier?” The older man with the slicked back blonde hair said as he joined the others. “While you are a valuable hostage- it's not you we wanted, rather the diamonds you’re wearing.”
“The diamonds?!” You gasped. “Why go after me then?”
“Because.” Chrollo said, getting up from his seat and walking over to you. “The information about where the diamonds were being kept previously was highly classified information. But what we did know was that one lucky girl was going to be wearing all of them and you just happened to be that unlucky girl.” You heard the beast man chuckle along with a few others and you couldn’t help but grunt.
“Fine- you want them- then fucking take them!” You shouted, before sliding off all the diamond rings on your fingers. First one and then the others before ripping your earrings from your lobes and tossing them into the pile of rings before reaching around your neck to take your necklace off. Diamonds may be a girl’s best friend but they certainly weren’t worth your life!
However, you couldn’t find the clasp, so you lifted your arm up and down the back of the necklace. You were usually a pro at taking your jewellery off quickly but for the life of you- you couldn’t find the damn clasp.
“Hey. What is taking so long?” Said the small man, the collar covering the bottom part of his face and you groaned in frustration. “It's the clasp- I can’t find it!”
“Girls, help her out.” Chrollo smiled and the next thing you knew- your cage was opening. The pink haired girl and the one with glasses reached in to pull you out. “NO! Don’t touch me!” You screamed. But their strength was unlike any you had seen before, they pulled you out with each and kicked your legs out from under you. “Stop!” You begged but both girls held you up by your arms and kept your shoulders pinned. Chrollo stepped around you and you could sense him behind your back.
“Don’t struggle much- you’re only hurting yourself.” he murmured as you felt him pull your hair out of the way and you bit your lip. You could only hope and pray that once they got everything they wanted- they’d let you go. That they didn’t have any more heinous plans in store and that you would be allowed to go home- granny, mother and papa were probably all worried about you- just to be home and safe again.
“Huh, what's this?” Chrollo said as the other two girls looked at what was being questioned.
“What the heck?” The pinked haired girl said.
“That's quite odd.” The girl with glasses said.
“What…? What is it?!” You yelled, the anticipation was killing you.
“If I didn’t know any better, I would say this was welded together.” Chrollo said. You turn your head to look up- to see him looking down on you. “Huh- what are you talking about?! Scarvoski put this necklace on me himself- I’d think I’d know if it was welded on!”
“And yet- there's no way to take it off.” The small man said as he observed your neck. Before lifting up his umbrella. “Well- I can think of one way.” He chuckled before sliding a whole sword from his umbrella and twirling it around, allowing the light to flicker on its blade. “NO- WAIT!” You screamed, trying to wretch yourself from their grasp but they remained firm.
“What do you think, boss?” The woman in the business suit asked.
“I say we get it over and done with!” the man with the scared and stitched up face announced.
“Wait- hold on, let's make a deal! I’m the highest grossing model on the market right now- I have more money than I know what to do with- I’ll give you every jenny I have!”
“Please. Is your value worth more than these diamonds?” The man with the covered face asked condescendingly.
“It's not just me! My father is one of the richest men in the city! Whatever you want- whatever we have- it's yours! If you kill me right here and now- you’ll be losing out big time!”
“Oh- that just gave me an idea! If I got your autograph on all these posters- the market value would soar sky high after your death!” The boy laughed as he pulled out another poster with you on it.
“Please! I am offering you everything I have! I’ll give you whatever you people want- just don’t kill me!”
“Come on boss!” The big best man roared, getting excited. “Give the order and I’ll pinch this little girl’s head right off her shoulders! I’ll even rip that necklace off even if it shreds her to bits!”
“PLEASE DON’T-!”
*Smash!*
A ball was thrown in through one of the windows, a piece of thread on top that was slowly disintegrating with every second the flame burned. “A bomb!” The man with the Sarashi shouted as the beast man lunged forward, his whole body glowing, like an aura that surrounded him- you had never seen anything like it. “Run for it boss!” he yelled, landing on top of the bomb in a noble sacrifice to save the others,
However- what came out wasn’t any big explosion, but rather a gas that quickly leaked out from beneath his body. He began to cough and soon, through the windows came more bombs- or rather-
“Fucking tear gas!” The man with no eyebrows shouted as the others began to gear up, an aura glowing about all of them now that completely astounded you as armed men began to infiltrate the building
“Find the girl! Kill anything else that moves!” An unfamiliar voice commanded as an army of swats began to pile in. The girl with glasses shrugged as they let you fall to the ground. “I guess she wasn’t lying when she said they’d find her soon.”
“(Y/n), do be a good girl and stay out of the way.” Chrollo said as he and the others walked forward to deal with the swats. You on the other hand weren’t gonna wait around to be rescued. The minute that they had begun to engage with the soldiers, you got to your feet as fast as you could and bolted. Picking up your skirts, you sprinted out of the room as quickly as you could.
‘Find a way out! Find a way out!’ You repeated in your head, the hallways were dark and the only source of like came from the old orange street lights. “Gagh!” You crashed into a wall and nearly fell down, using your hands you felt along the walls, hoping it would lead you to an exit quickly. “Where is the girl?!” Shouted one of the men.
You could no longer hear the sound of gunshots, were the swats victorious or did they fail?
“Well well well, look who let the cat out of the bag~” You turned your head and there he was in the ominous orange light, the man with the red hair and the face paint- the clown looking man. “No,no,no!” You squealed as you picked up your skirts and ran as fast as you could down the hall.
The man behind you chuckled. “Do you honestly think you can run?” He laughed and you tripped.
Using your arms to take the brunt of the fall but you cried in pain again. Your wrist once again got a bad whack. One of your heels fell off as you struggled to get up. You look down at your foot and see some glowing pink wrapped around your ankle and the other end of the glowing pink string at the jester man’s finger. “W-What is that thing…?”
“Mmm ... .you can see my bungee gum? That's very interesting. I had no idea you were a nen user.”
“Bungee gum….nen? What the heck are you talking about!? And let me go!” You demanded, trying to unravel the strange gummy string attached to your ankle, but it was stuck like glue… or rather, gum. “You’re not the brightest bulb, are you?” The jester smirked as he unraveled the gum string from your ankle and stepped towards you, holding out his hand. “I’m here to help~”
“What…?” You squawked, hesitantly taking his hand, allowing him to pull you up. He was most definitely strong. You took off your other heel before resting your bare feet in the cold ground. “But why? Aren't you with those guys? I doubt they’d take betrayal kindly!”
“Oh- I know that very well, that's why they’re not gonna find out.” he smiled before shooting his hand forward and more of that pink string burst out, it reached all the way to the end of the corridor where it latched onto something in the dark. A door opened up and you could see the desolate street as clear as day. “There's your exit.” He smirked.
“But you didn’t answer my question, why are you doing this? If you bring me back- you could get the money- isn’t this what it's all for…?”
“My dear- If I was someone who was constantly after money- well, life would be quite droll. No- I seek something that money can’t buy me, now you be a dear and get going then.”
Wait-!” You misspoke, you were wasting time but still. “Tell me your name, please. At least let me know the name of the man who helped me…”
He gave a curious look before smirking once again. “Hisoka.”
You nodded your head. “Thank you Hisoka for your generosity- but may we never meet again.” You huffed before sprinting out the door, one heel in your hand and the other left behind.
“What an unusual girl- but still.” He grinning, taking your shoe from the floor and examining it thoroughly. “The others don’t know she can see nen- and I couldn’t see any aura coming from her which means they likely won’t either…. This should be fun.”
.
.
.
Each step on the ground felt like you were stepping in spikes. The ground was cold and bit into your delicate skin. You made it a habit to look behind you every few seconds to make sure you weren’t being followed.
“Damn it…” You whined, stopping for a second to crouch down and rub your arms in the hopes of generating heat- but it was hopeless considering a barrier of diamonds lay between your hands and skin. “Why…. Why is this happening to me?! What did I do to deserve this?!”
Sure, you lived a privileged life. You had everything you could ever want and yet you were always aware of said privilege. Always wearing new clothes then your classmates, the newest toys and outfits. A chauffeur to and from school everyday and spending your weekends at the country club where you hung out with the other socialites of high society.
You kept smoking to areas where you knew the camera wouldn’t reach you, your drug habit didn’t last long thanks to your grandma’s interference and you donated to charity like- all the time! So what if you weren’t smartest or the bravest or the strongest? You never did wrong by anyone so why were you being punished like this?!
“Dii te rupes vident, clamores tui audiunt, corpus tuum reddunt et in complexu frigescunt”
An ancient voice rang in your ears, a striking hot pain burst in your veins as you were reduced to screams.
“WHAT IS HAPPENING?!?!” You screamed, your throat felt tight, like something was cutting into you. It wasn’t hard to guess but shocking nonetheless as your necklace miraculously got tighter and tighter on you. You dragged yourself into an alleyway, laying behind an old set of bins so you were out of sight. Blood had begun to leak from your neck as your airways got tighter.
‘Great, just great. I’m going to die from either asphyxiation or from a cut throat… the worst part is that I can’t even cry for help…!’
“Which way could she have gone?!” Cried one of the girl’s from before. Leaning over, it was the pink haired ninja girl with the girl with glasses carrying some strange vacuum cleaner and the boy who wanted your autograph. “I know there's a police station somewhere close by, she might have ran over there!” The boy said as they ran off.
“If she’s that quick!” The girl with glasses said.
‘I guess I should be thankful they didn’t find me in the end….’ You coughed as the silver holding your necklace together digged deeper into your neck.
‘This is the end…. Well…. At least I’ll die beautiful….’ You could feel yourself sink into the wall as your necklace got tighter and tighter, ready to succumb to your tragic fate.
“sanguinem eorum bibunt et carnes eorum edunt. Sinite adamantinum deus, ut vitia vestra consumat et ad eius imaginem renascamur.”
You receive flashes of memories, memories that were not yours. An underground city filled with the most beautiful people, the sacrifices that were made to them. The millions that died in battle against them, the horrific flesh that lay beneath their diamond exteriors.
Beautiful on the outside, ugly on the inside.
“Surge a frigore et malo cisternis gehennae”
It got slightly warmer, like your pain was beginning to subside and you were simply tired, the wind the blew by and you was no longer no longer cold
“Oh? Hey cutie- it's not every day I see a girl like you around here~!”
You opened your eyes and saw a man standing above you, he looked weird. A fake Voiwurst jacket, a gold chain that was probably fake and a fake Qike tracksuit. People like this were the worst- if you can’t afford the real thing- don’t make a fool of yourself by buying fake- just admit you were poor and move on.
“Sorry…. Can I borrow your phone?” you asked.
“Borrow my phone? Why would you wanna call anyone else when I’m right here baby!” he smirked, crouching down to be at the same level as your eyes. “Damn girl, you look like a million dollars and- you…. You're so god damn beautiful…”
“I know that already, now can I borrow your phone?” You asked again.
“Nah baby girl- I’m your number one contact now!” He chuckled, grabbing your arms and pulling you up from the ground, your wrist still hurting. “OW! Let go!”
“Listen baby- I ain’t got much to my name- but I promise you I’ll give you my everything!”
“Damn it- I said let go of me!” You pushed him back with a hefty force and he looked shocked that you did so. A look of anger overtook his features, his face going red. “Why you-”
A flash of red spit off of his neck as he collapsed on the ground. The man with the covered face standing before you. “Now that was taken care of.” His eyes flashed to yours, his sharp fingertips flicking the blood from his hands. “It.is.your.turn.”
You don’t bother to say anything else, with the shoe still in your hand, you hurl it towards him before sprinting as far away as you can into the alley way. Your heart beats fast as your hair flies about from behind as you run and run as fast as you can. However the man from behind easily catches up and the next thing you know, you're pinned against the wall, one of his hands holding your arms against your back while his sharp nails threaten your neck.
“Nice try. But unfortunately, there is nowhere to go.”
“You fucking creep- let go of me!” You snarled, looking behind you. “I’m worth more than any of you! You dare threaten me?! SCUM!” You shout.
That wasn’t you. Yeah, it was your voice but you didn’t mean to vocalise those words- you weren’t even thinking them.
“Well- this is certainly a change from the girl we met earlier!” Chrollo appeared, clapping his hands before sticking them in his pockets. “Most people tend to show their true colours when they’re on death's doorstep, it is unfortunate- If we had gotten what we wanted, you could have gone home to your rick folk- perhaps I could’ve taken you out on another date.”
“I will not die here.” You said, again, it wasn’t your words. “Pathetic worm- go on then, take the diamonds if you can. You’ll be hunted down for the rest of your life, you will be given no moment of reprieve, just pure anxiety for the rest of your life.”
You had no idea what you were saying, that was until the man holding you down turned you around and slammed you on your back.
“What is this….?” He growled.
Looking down at your necklace, the silver holding it together was no longer there yet the diamonds remained, embedded in your skin like they were part of you naturally. You were confused also but you had no time to think, just act. You managed to get your leg out and stomped it right into the man’s gut, sending him across the alleyway. “Why you…!”
“Hhmm, looks like she got the better of you Feitan.” Chrollo smiled before pulling out a knife, a dark purple liquid covered the blade, barely visible but you saw it. “I really wished it hadn’t come to this- do forgive me, it's nothing personal.”
“You made it personal BITCH!” You roar, backing away before something catches your arm. “What the-”
“No!” Chrollo cried and before you knew it, you were shot up from the alleyway and up into the skyline of the buildings, you felt air rush past you and arms wrapped around you. A man with long dark tresses and dark eyes carried you along the rooftops in his arms, speeding along.
He simply looked down at you. “You’re safe now.”
“Who are you?!” You gasped.
“No time for introductions, I am an assassin but I was hired by your father to save you from the Phantom troupe, you are welcome.”
“An assassin, phantom troupe? This just keeps getting weirder and weirder!” You cried when the man climbed the tallest building with you in his arms. Once you were up there, he set you down on your feet and nodded his head. “You are to wait here, a ship will come and get you, they already know our location.”
“Really…? Wait- how did you know where I was- I have so many questions!”
“I had some inside help who located you, we sent in the swats as bait, you would escape and I’d pick you up, simple.”
“Hisoka right- or is it not him?”
“No, you’re right.”
“How does my dad even know assassins?!” You gasp.
“Everyone with 10 digits knows an assassin.” He simply replied.
So that was it, your dad sent an assassin to come get you, save the day and you get to go home, however as your fingers glaze across the diamonds in your skin, a gut feeling immerses you, that aura you originally saw on the necklace- you knew there was something fishy about it and now- you can see something call….. Nen, was it?
“What can you tell me about nen…?” You ask the assassin, you knew he couldn’t bullshit his way out of not telling you, what caught your arm was needles, needles that were attached to nen and pulled you six stories into the air, it wasn’t a coincidence. “My contractor never said you were a nen user.”
“That's the thing- I'm not! I can just SEE other people use it- like that bubblegum thing Hisoka had, I’m not crazy, I know what I saw!”
“Only nen users can see other nen users, and you only started seeing it recently?”
“When I put this fucking necklace on, made by Scar-”
Scarvoski, fucking Scarvoski. He has to know what the fuck is going on with you- he made the damn necklace- he can fucking fix what ever the hell is happening to you. “Hey… so.. Do you think- this necklace caused me to become a nen user or something…?”
“It depends, there are two ways to become a nen user, one is the natural way which involves intensive training and meditation, the other is the quicker way is intiatiation where another nen user forces your aura nodes awake, but what makes you think it was the necklace that opened your nodes?”
“I’m not sure… I was in the dressing room, I saw the next at and had this glow about it that no one else seemed to notice…”
“You do have a strict training regiment, don’t you?” He asked. You nodded your head, of course you did, staying fit was one of the most important parts of being a model, when you could no longer rely on drugs, you turned to more natural ways like meditation and yoga- clean girl shit like that. “Then my theory is you were slowly on your way to becoming a nen user but hadn’t realised it because you never knew nen existed before this, the necklace however forced you into initiation- but that is strange, i’ve never heard of an object forcing one into initiation.”
“I can’t go home yet- I need to see Scarvoski.” You say.
“Negative, I only get paid once you’ve been returned home to your family, surely you can contact him once your safety is assured.”
“I guess…” You muttered, once again trying to rub your arms through your diamond covered arms. From afar the airship appeared in sight and it was slowly closing in. “Okay, is this where we part?” You ask the assassin, your hands folded in front of you. “Yep, The moment you get on the airship, my job will be complete.”
“Well, that's for the help-”
The sound of a machine gun fired rapidly from somewhere below and in the next second, the airship was going down in a ball of flame and smoke. “WHAT THE FUCK!?” You screamed, taking a step back.
“Uh oh, looks like they’re onto us.” The assassin said nonchalantly.
“Yeah no shit!” You barked.
“ZOLDYCK!” Both you and him looked down the side of the building, the beast-like man practically galloping up the side of the building, rubble and debris following behind him. “Don’t think we’re gonna let you screw us over, you bastard!”
“Fuck! We’re do we go!?” You looked around for escape but the assassin once again picked you and you were both falling over the other side of the building. “WAH!” You screamed.
Your body passed through a sky light and miraculously, the assassin managed to land on both his feet with no issue. “Agh!” You squeaked, still in his arms, he looked down at you through his flowing black tresses. “Are you unharmed?”
“No..” You muttered. The moon was peeking out from behind the clouds and he looked so sexy in the lighting despite his monotonous expression. He walked forward a bit and placed you down on the floor where the glass could not reach your bare feet. “Do you not have shoes? What happened to them?”
“I had to ditch them, they were six inch heels- made running really hard.”
*Ring*
*Ring*
The assassin removed his phone from his pocket and answered the call. “Hello?”
“Illumi, let's talk.” Chrollo’s voice was loud within the dark and barren room you were in. You felt a jolt of fear course through you, why was Chrollo calling your saviour?! “Chrollo, I’m kind of in the middle of running away from your man, what was his name again…. Uvo?”
“Don’t worry, Uvogin is on standby, I just wanna talk.. You won't make this difficult, will you?”
“Depends.” Illumi said as your voice hissed. “What are you doing? Hang up!” You whispered.
“It’s just the diamonds we want, not her, we’ll extract them from her and you’ll be free to take her back to her money bag father, we all win.”
“That's the problem, the diamonds you specifically want are stuck in her skin. Can you fully say you’ll be able to give her back undamaged?”
“Oh, we’ll be careful, besides if she does get a bit bloodied up, Machi can always just fix her back up.”
“NO WAY!” You cried. “You bastards had no problem wanting to cut my head off when trying to get the necklace off, what makes you think I’l trust you with these diamonds in my skin!”
“You have this on speaker…?” Chrollo sighed.
“I thought it would have been her father calling, not you. I’m afraid I can’t take you up on your deal.”
“Come now Illumi, whatever her father is paying you, we’ll pay twice the amount, you know you can trust us.”
He wouldn’t seriously hand you over right?....... right?
“You know it's not that simple Chrollo, I’ve already received half the payment, if I try to double cross him now, it’ll take a huge blow to my rep and I’m not willing to parlay for a bit more money.”
“How sad, well, it was nice knowing you Zoldyck. Uvo, have at him.”
Illumi grabbed your arm and began to pull you forward as the beast man landed through the sky light, on his feet too like Illumi. He cracked his knuckles and stretched his arms. “Heh, alright then, I’ll make this quick.”
“Run!” Illumi commanded, you picked up your skirts and began to run out of the room and through the corridor.
‘STOP!’ You halted your pace and a bullet whizzed right past your eyes. “AH!” You cried, falling to your butt, the clinking of ballet flats could be heard and the woman in the business suit appeared once again, a revolver in her hand as she approached. “Ah, I missed by just a hair I did. If you had gone any further, I might have been able to hit you dead in the head.”
“Leave me alone!” You cried, picking yourself and continuing to run.
“You do know running will get you nowhere right?” Another bullet was fired as you reached the railing of the stairs. ‘FALL!’ What happened next was a mystery, you were running towards the stairs but for some inconceivable reason, your body decided to fling itself over the whole railing instead. “AGH!”
You went tumbling down the round stairs yet every time your body hit the surface, you didn’t feel pain. You would just pounce from the ground again and again until you reached the ground. “Ugh!” Your vision was dizzy, you picked yourself up off the ground.
“What's wrong with my hand-.... What?” Your appendage was shiny and bright, allowing you to see the reflection of a woman with an equally shiny and bright face.
Then your vision came back. “What the hell…?”
Diamond.
Lifting up both your hands, it was clear to see that both of them had crystallized within the short timespan you had fallen over the railing and hit the stairs. “What the fuck is going on- I’m so confused!” Weirdly enough, you could still move your crystalized hands, move your jaw, speak- weirdly enough you didn’t feel the need to blink.
“Where are you?!” The woman shouted, her footsteps pattering down the steps, you took this opportunity to run again. Your movement was faster this time since you didn’t have to worry about stepping on sharp objects. You bolted outside the building where you heard the voice again. ‘To your left.’
You turned to your left and found yourself in another alley way. “Hide.”
You did so, hiding behind a dumpster, crouching down. ‘Hold your breath’ Without thinking about anything else, you held your breath and the woman’s voice got louder and louder. “Damn it- where did you go?!”
Her steps slowly crept down the alley way and soon enough, she was right in front of you, but her gaze never reached yours. “I know you’re somewhere around here! Show yourself!” You were baffled, you were right there and for some reason, she didn’t see you. You clutched your skirt, keeping your eyes focused up at the crazy lady with a gun. “Pakunoda, there you are!” The man in the sarashi dropped down from above and landed beside the woman. “Did you locate that brat?”
“She was right here just a second ago! I just had her in my sights- where did that little bitch go…?!”
How the fuck were they not seeing you right now?!
“Calm down Pakunoda- if you just saw her then there's no way she could have gotten far- let's split up for now and search for her!”
Both of them vanished and it was only then and there you could breathe. Fear coursing through your bodies, shivers wracking your arms and legs “What the hell is going on…?”
‘I made both you and your aura disappear, they’ll have a harder time trying to find you.’
You gasped in fright, looking around, no one was there, confirming, yes, there was a voice in your head. “Just who the hell are you- and why can I hear you in my mind? Am I going crazy…?!” You whispered. ‘No, you can hear me because we have fused with your body.’
“Fused…?” You noted before peering down at the diamonds in your chest. “The necklace…..?”
‘Yes, we allowed you to fuse with us because you met the conditions worthy to wear us, henceforth from this day forward, we are at your service.’
“I don’t get it, just who are you and why me?” You asked, hoping they would respond to your question. ‘Our names… we can not remember, but what matters is we remember our origins. From beyond the safety of Lake Mobius where you and the other mongrels live in safety, we hail from the Dark continent, in the lava mountains and the deep underdark live the rock gods.’
Your nails grew in length and sharpness, the diamonds glittering in the orange light of the street light.
‘In a place of depravity where it is always a battle for survival, the people of the rock gods were born to survive its harsh terrain and live off its land- we have bountiful lifespans and when we do die, we revert to these forms, forever beautiful in shape.’
“So- what you're saying is someone took you from this.. Dark Continent, put you into my necklace and now what- we’ve fused?”
‘Many others have tried to claim us- but death is assured for anyone who touches use without meeting the conditions.'
“So how am I not dead then? What were the conditions?” You moaned, standing up and creeping back onto the street, it was then you could hear the voice sigh from the back of your mind, as if the answer was obvious. ‘You’re beautiful, that's why.’
“Huh..?” You nearly stumbled over, trying to process what the voice just said. “That's it? Only because I look good?”
‘Because you look good…?! Simply ‘looking good’ is not how you meet the conditions. We can tell from your genetic makeup, your routines and training, nothing about your beauty is fake or untrue. You are a rare beauty and we’re positive you’ve heard the term, ‘fine feathers make a fine bird’ but if it were anyone else, the outfit would simply wear them, you are the only one who can outshine the diamonds you wear and for that reason you are worthy of us'.
“Aw…. you really mean that?” You blushed, hiding your face, what could you say, you were a sucker for compliments, even knowing that if you were any uglier than you would be dead, but yea you! “But anyways, these guys want you and I doubt that you’ll simply just leave my body?”
“Impossible, once we fuse with a host then it is impossible to unfuse'.
“By the way, I noticed I literally turned into a diamond!” You say as you run down the street, skirts gathered in your hands, your feet going ‘pitter-patter, pitter-patter’.”And the fact that I fell down the stairs completely unharmed, can I not deflect bullets now?”
‘Sure, you body is not made of normal diamond as you realised, your body can withstand tons of force and you will not break, however, nen infused projectiles and weapons are a completely different story and until you can learn to summon a protective aura to shield you from others nen, I suggest we stick to escaping.’
Sounds like a good idea to you
.
.
.
“Huff… puff…… fuck me…” You whine, sliding your back down a wall, before resting your head on your knees. You swear you had been running and running all night in circles, narrowly dodging the crooks who took you and shady people who looked like they were up to no good. “Where Illumi where you need him…?”
“Oh (Y/n)... where are you?” You froze, immediately getting back to your feet as you peeked around the corner, in the alley was Chrollo, his hands in his pockets as he combed through the dirty alleyway. “There's no point in trying to escape, we’ve got this entire industrial park cut off, there's no way you’ll be able to get out.”
Even now he had a charming smile on his face, smiling like he was just having a laugh. A grin like he wasn’t out to get you, to hurt you. “Come on (Y/n), If it makes you feel better, I don’t like hurting girls, especially ones as pretty as yours. I was gonna take you for dinner afterwards as an apology of sorts- if you come out now- we’ll make sure you survive the extraction, we just want the diamonds, that's all!”
‘Oh hell- you just want the diamonds.’ You scoffed as you snuck away and ran down the street, you were gonna let him catch you like this, let any of them catch you like this! You had to get home- your family was waiting for you- “Stop right there and put your hands where I can see them!” yelled a voice.
You turn your head and there is an officer, standing by his police cruiser, a gun in his hand. Finally, help! You were able to relax and allow your diamond exterior to disappear from your skin- just so he wouldn’t think you were some freak.
“Officer please- I need your assistance!”
“I said hands where I can see them!” He barked, pistol aiming right at you, you quickly raised your hands. “Officer please, I need your help- there's some very bad people who kidnapped me and I-”
“I don’t expect anything less from a woman of your ‘profession’.” He scoffed before he stomped over, getting behind you and putting your hands by your back- before handcuffing them. “What- what are you doing?! Are you arresting me?!”
“Please- I’ve picked up plenty of hookers hanging around this place- all eager to pick up a pretty penny from the first guy who throws it.”
“You think I’m a prostitute?! These are literally Scarvoski diamonds I’m wearing and you think I’m a whore!?”
“Hey, I never said you weren’t successful, but I’m sure you can tell me all about it on our way down to the precinct!!” He said as he shoved you into the back of his cruiser, he got into the driver's seat and started the engine. “Just you wait- I’m gonna call my father and you’ll be sorry you treated me like this!” You huffed.
“Yeah, yeah, yeah- tell it to the judge-” When he looked back at you through the barred back seat, he blinked. “You know- you’re actually really pretty.”
“YOU THINK I WANT SOME COMPLIMENT AFTER YOU HANDCUFFED ME?!” You scream, kicking the seat. “I’ve met plenty of respectable officers and you put them all to shame!” You shout.
“Okay…! No need to be a bitch about it-”
A force rammed into the side of the cruiser and the next thing you knew, the car was in the air.
“AGGGGGHHHHH!” In that instant, your diamond exterior was back up before the vehicle hit the building to your right. You heard something got *splat* and *shatter* before the car flipped upside down. There was glass everywhere and if not for your diamond skin you probably would have died on impact.
“Officer…?” You whined, looking towards the driver's seat. He was in your line of vision, but not in his seat. A man sized hole was in the screen and in the distance, you could see his bloodied body that skidded across the road. “Fuck…!” You had to get out of here, your hands were still handcuffed so you had to resort to using your feet. “HAH!” You kicked at the window, your crystalised foot doing great damage as you kicked it again, and again and again until the glass shattered.
You slid forward, hoping to slide out the window.
“Oh, there you are!”
A hand grabs your foot and you find yourself being dragged from the vehicle. “Let go of me!” You shouted, finding Chrollo’s smug face looking down at you, a tint of surprise in his eyes as he observed your new form. “Wow (Y/n), look at you, you were beautiful before but you are dazzling now!” You swore you could see a hint of blush on his cheeks.
“Hands off perv!” You shout, attempting to kick him with your free foot only for him to catch it, holding both legs in both his legs. “Come on (Y/n), don’t be like that.” He spreads your legs wide open and gets between them and on top of you. “LET me go! Let me go, you creep! You sicko!” You cried, wanting so desperately to hit him if not for the cuffs on your hands.
“I mean, just look at you, at first it was the diamonds we wanted- but you yourself are a living diamond, I’m not sure how that's possible but you’re a lot more valuable to us now as you are.”
“You couldn’tafford us you little worthless lowlife- what claim do you have to this body? NONE!” The voice spoke for you, harshly and ruthlessly.
“My, your eyes sure are scary (Y/n)! Why don’t you forgive us for trying to hurt you earlier and put it all behind us? You did say you want to travel so perhaps we can take you with us-”
“LIKE HELL!” You screamed, your rage giving you the strength you needed to break the cuffs. Your arm aimed to strike Chrollo, but he was quick and drew his blade. Your fingers merely hit the blade and he was sent skidding back.
“Heh- looks like you're super strong now!” He chuckled, getting back to his feet, as did you. ‘Girl, you do not have the strength to fight this mongrel, you must run now while you can.’
“Easier said than done!” You scoffed.
“Hmm.” Chrollo chimed, examining his blade. Your jaw dropped when you saw it. From the tip of the blade to its hilt was now entirely made of diamond. “What am I? King Midas of something?!” You gawked. Where everything he touched turned to gold, yours apparently turned everything into gems.
“You my darling, are about to make us a lot of money~” He smirked, pulling off his headband, showing off a strange cross tattoo on his forehead before stuffing it into his pocket. “I haven’t introduced myself properly before and I apologise, my name is Chrollo Lucilfer, leader of the Phantom Troupe.”
“What?!” You gasped, your breath hitching in your throat.
“Who are they….? I’ve never heard of them before…”
“Hahaha! You’re really funny (Y/n), I’m sure the others will love you, I promise in my honor as a thief that no one is gonna hurt you because- we’re gonna be friends for a real long time.” He smiled.
“Ugh-no. You played me, you kidnapped me, planned to chop my head off, chased me all over this funk ass industrial park and made me fear for my life- all I have to say is fuck you and this is the last time I let a good looking guy try swoop me off my feet!” You bark.
“I don’t believe I was asking.” He smirked, taking a step and suddenly he was in front of you, taking swipes at your neck. “OW!” You cried, falling to the ground. Chrollo’s hand was red. “Huh, I was trying to knock you out.”
“Yeah no shit! My whole body is made of literal diamond, you’re not touching me!” You shout, taking a piece of glass and flinging it in his direction. He quickly caught it before it could reach his face and you took this opportunity to sprint away.
But he was behind you in an instant, wrapping his arms around your torso and lifting you up “LET ME GO PIG! I will end you! I swear to god- agh!”
“Put down my client, Chrollo.” There stood Illumi, not a scratch on him as he crept forward, needles protruding from each crevice of his finger. “I see Uvo wasn’t much of a challenge for you, or did you run when you first had the chance?”
“Killing a spider is not my objective- besides- my father already told me killing one of you wasn’t worth the money so there's no need.”
“Illumi- help me!” You cried before a hand was placed firmly on your mouth as you continued to struggle.
“You have a nice voice but silence suits you better~”
“What happened to her? She wasn’t like this the last time I saw her.”
“I’m not sure either, but I do know that she has more value to us now more than ever- and I’m not about to hand her over.”
“Oh I’m positive about that already- which is why I brought in a few extra hands.” he snapped his fingers and a herd of crooks, big and small came out from their hiding places, each one with a needle stuck in their heads. Drool dripped from their mouths as they stared you down with dilated eyes, as if they were brain dead.
“Hey now, that's cheating, using your needlemen.” Chrollo groaned.
“You’re the almighty leader of spiders, call your legs to come back you up.”
Chrollo pushed you to the ground as the needlemen began their assault, narrowly avoiding the, you slipped through the crowd where Illumi grabbed your arm. “We don’t have much time.”
“Yeah, no kidding!”
A car zoomed around the corner, you and Illumi narrowly dodging it as it skidded to a stop, the window rolling down. “Hey you~”
“You-” Illumi opened the car door and shoved you inside before you could say another word. “No time to talk, get her out of here while I buy you some time.”
The car zoomed away before Illumi went to engage Chrollo.
“My, my, that is quite the look for you~” The red haired man smiled as he drove the car. “Hisoka, you’re helping me too? But I thought you weren’t looking to get caught!” You gawked as you both zoomed out of the industrial park.
“I’m not and as far as I’m concerned, they’re not going to find out. But let's talk about you- you’re made of a most precious rock.”
“I know..!” You let yourself shed your diamond exterior, surprising Hisoka. “I’m hearing fucking voices in my head, I fused with the diamonds- they say they’re the deceased souls of some rock gods from- the dark continent or whatever its called!”
“Hmm… well I certainly wasn’t expecting that.”
“I’m wondering if Scarvoski knew about this…! He made the necklace- he had too!”
“Why don’t we ask him ourselves?” Hisoka smirked as he turned the corner. “What? But Illumi wants me to be home..”
“Well, Illumi is boring, besides, if you’re worried about your folks you can use my phone~!” He smiled, passing it to you as he continued to drive. “Do you know where he lives? I can help you confront him- get all the answers you need~”
Hisoka was right, you don’t know if you’ll ever get another opportunity to confront Scarvoski again. You doubt he’ll come clean- most he’ll do is feign ignorance- but with Hisoka here, you could beat it out of him.
“Take the next left and keep going until you reach the Skyline Pinnacle, that's where his penthouse is in York New.”
He proceeds to step on the gas.
.
.
.
You didn’t enter through the reception area, that would have been silly. However, Hisoka was able to use his bungee gum to spring you both up to the top floors of the Skyline Pinnacle where you reached Scarvoski’s penthouse. “Have you been here before?” He asked smugly as you carefully slid the door open. “Oh course, I’ve known the man since I was a kid- and he’s been designing jewellery for my mom and grandma long before I was born..! “
“This is a disaster!” Yelled a voice from within the home, you and Hisoka crept inside carefully. “He’s probably in his office….” You uttered as you tiptoed up the stairs. “She can’t be gone now- she can’t!” The older man cried from within his office.
You had known the old man for a long time, one of your very first supporters he was, telling you that everyone from man to woman will envy you. You trusted him as did your family, he was a family friend and one that has aided you in your success.
“Just where did they take her?! Where is my diamond?!”
“You mean this one?” You scoffed, entering the office with Hisoka in tow as the man spun around. “(Y/n)! Oh my darling diamond- my little gem- you have returned to me~!” He cried, rushing towards you and taking your hands. “Your dress is ruined- those fiends! But at least you look as though you’ve not been harmed! Your grandma will be so happy…!”
“Uncle Alexander, please!” You scoff, ripping your hands away.
“Uncle?” Hisoka murmured, blinking his eyes.
“You think I’m unharmed…? What have you done to me?!” You demanded, emphasizing the large rock stuck in your chest. He began to scratch the back of his neck, sweat forming on his brow. “Oh- my dear, I’m so sorry, I don’t-”
“Now, now, don’t lie to her~” Hisoka smirked, pressing a card to his neck, the tiniest blood forming. “Who- Who are-!” The older man tried to squeal before you smacked your hands together. “Cut the bullshit uncle! You know, you made the necklace so tell me! Why would you do this to me…?!”
“My dear- my (Y/n)- you need to know- everything I have ever done was because you are a valued loved one of mine! Please- you and your mama joined me for christmas in my lodge in Padokea when you were younger- don’t you remember-
“Speak.” Hisoka said.
It was plain and simple but the man fessed up- “It is a sacred treasure from the dark continent!” He cried, sinking to the floor. “It hails from an ancient civilisation that lives on to this day. Travelling there is forbidden due to its level of danger- but a group of hunters traveled there fifty years ago, intent on getting those treasures, only one of them came back recently and died when he got home… I was able to retrieve them before the hunter’s association got their hands on it- and crafted that necklace so only someone as beautiful as you may have the privilege of wearing it!”
“But… why..?” You uttered.
“Because- you are beautiful! Even more strikingly so now that you’ve fused with them! Such beauty deserves to be preserved for years to come, you will never be forgotten- you’ll never grow old nor will you be harmed….. But you must feed!”
“What are you-” You moaned as you backed up against the wall. “(Y/n), what's wrong?” Hisoka asked.
“He is right.” Said the voice. “In order to maintain our strength, you must feed from them, bleed him out and drink his blood.”
“(Y/n), my child!” Scarvoski cried, crawling on his knees towards you- before kissing your feet. “You were born to inherit this earth! We are all mere insects to make your path… people as beautiful as you… deserve to have…. Everything their heart desires!” You physically cringed, disgust filling your being,
“Uncle, what are you saying?!” You cried.
“Make me your first meal- allow me to help pave the way for you my greatest dove- my darling diamond-”
“NO!” You shout, sending a punch to his temple. Scarvoski fell on the ground out cold. You were shocked. “Did I do that…?”
“Yes, you did~” Hisoka smirked, placing his hands on your shoulders. “It's clear he wished to raise you into a position of worship…. But I wish to see your potential~” He purred, his lips right next to your ear. You wanted to pull away but he quickly placed a hand on your stomach to stop you from doing so. “What do you mean…?”
“This diamond exterior allows you protections no other shield can offer. You my dear are practically a walking tank.” He smirked leaning close to you
“I wanna see what it takes to make you break~”
“Get off me!” You squealed. Breaking from his grip, falling back against the table. “You wanna fight me?! I don’t know how to fight- I’ve never been in a position where I’ve had to fight back-”
“Well my dear, I have no intention of breaking you now~! That would be a waste, instead, you should focus on getting stronger, that way when the time comes, our battle will be glorious.”
“Freak….!” You cursed, attempting to leave the room when you bumped into some. “(Y/n), Hisoka..”
“My, my, Illumi, what a surprise.”
There stood the long haired assassin in the doorway, though he had a blank expression, you noticed a sense of bloodlust that radiated from you. One that terrified you, made goosebumps lace your skin. “I thought I told you to return her to the Devereaux estate, the longer you prolong this, the longer it takes for my employer to pay me.”
“Come now Illumi, you’re an assassin by trade- not a rescuer, the fact you were even paid to rescue her is baffling even for me to comprehend. Well- I guess it doesn’t matter any how- she’s all yours for the taking-”
“Wait!” You cried, before stepping over Scarvoski's body and looking at his desk. “There has to be something that can explain to me what the hell is going on…” You scoff, ripping open the drawers, design notepads, colors and paints all resided in them. But at the very bottom of the cupboard lay one big book.
It didn’t have any title but it was bound in a dirty brown leather cover and from within it stuck out notes and tabs of different colours. You open it up and find sketches and details, photographs of people, made entirely of emeralds, rubies, sapphires, pearls and quartz. Although it was a bit heavy, you lugged it under one arm and huffed.
“Okay, I’m ready.”
.
.
.
“Ugh, how much longer till we get there?” Hisoka scoffed as he sat in the front with Illumi who was behind the wheel.
“The mansion is another three miles away- If you had not taken a detour- there still would’ve been enough gas to get us there faster.”
You on the other hand sat in the backseat, feet curled up as you read through the book. All of it were notes that had previously belonged to the hunters who were studying the Rock clans of the Dark continent, thanks to their solid exteriors they could manifest in seconds- it prevents them from being targeted from predators who otherwise have no use for rocks. If by chance they are swallowed they may wait until they’ve passed through the digestive system and come out the other way which sounded utterly vile to you. The other method was simply by cutting themselves out with the sharp appendages.
“Says here I can manifest diamonds myself… the quantity and size of each diamond depending on how much I’ve eaten- so technically I can burn calories by making diamonds!? This rules!”
“My my, how lovely.” Hisoka says.
“So, what is this dark continent?” You muttered as you flipped through the pages, hoping to get a better explanation, although you couldn’t really find one. “Hmm..” You muttered. Finding one page labeled ‘combat and strengths’.
“Combat with the tribesmen is highly unrecommended. If confronted- focus on escaping than fighting back. The tribe must consume three times more protein than the average human and are known to eat anything they find- will cannibalise other humanoids if necessary. They are fed poison as soon as they enter the mother’s womb to build up resistance to poison- okay…. Can create weapons from the exteriors- only require four hours of sleep-”
“From the sounds of things (Y/n), you must be a vampyre.” Hisoka smirked, looking at you through the rear view mirror.
“A vampyre? I mean, that sounds cool but I think that is a bit of a stretch.”
“It sounds like they are the perfect killers.” Illumi said, butting into the conversation. “When you think about it, the more attractive a person is, the more likely a target is to lower their guard. I mean… you wouldn’t expect a beautiful woman to kill you.”
“Like a black widow~!” Hisoka laughed, folding his arms. “You know (Y/n), perhaps we should turn the car around, you’d fit in perfectly with the troupe.”
“No way! Like hell I’d ever team up with the thugs who kidnapped me- I never want to see them again if I can help it!” You scoffed, flicking through more of the pages. Turns out the Rock has a hierarchical system, with one set of stone being inferior to the other. At the top were of course the Diamonds followed by the Emeralds, Rubies and Sapphires. Then the beryls, then the garnets, the pearls, the Quartz and last but not least the Granities.
“Says here they stole the diamonds from an ancient burial ground from the inside of a world tree, one that has honored their dead since ancient times- that foul- isn’t it?”
“Tell that to the phantom troupe, if they were there- they would have taken everything in sight and left nothing behind- grave robbing would not be beneath them.” Illumi stated and you shuddered. You couldn’t believe some people could be capable of that. Robbing a dead man’s belongings, you couldn’t stoop much lower than that. You continued to read, an entry continuing on from the cemetery robbing.
‘The diamonds were without a doubt the most difficult to obtain. There were no other diamonds that size and many would pay billions to have one. As were the emeralds, sapphires and rubies- they too were well guards but it was nothing we could not handle. The quantity of beryls that Asuka took were hefty and Rook had sacks full of garnets and pearls before we got anywhere near the sapphires-’
‘Those animals…! Desecrating the graves of our people!’ The voice growled contemptuously and you did not blame him, not one bit.
You skipped a few pages and got to the last entry.
‘Dead. Everyone is dead. When I returned to the ship, it was covered in moss with a myriad of wild beasts living inside it. The tribesman had hunted us for years after they found out we stole the gems, one by one- we all dropped like flies, the horrors I’ve seen- I dare not speak of to anyone else. Yet despite that, I carried on with the treasure. We swore we would not return until we had those gemstones and it is up to me to see it through to the end. I came to this place as a young man, I am old now with not much life left in me. I am not sure If I’ll be alive by the time I reach back to the centre of Lake Mobius but it matters not- It is my only desire no one is stupid enough to touch these things with their bare hands- or they shall die. But one thing is certain- by the time the tribe reaches the shores- I will be gone with gems.’
“Holy crap…” You muttered. There was more. There was fucking more of them.
“Oh damn.” Illumi noted as he slammed his foot down on the break. You nearly went through the screen as you dropped the book and held on tight in the back seat. “It's them…” Hisoka muttered.
Your heart sank as you saw the phantom troupe, all of them on the barren road with no other car or person in sight. To be fair your family home was further into the countryside in the U.V hills, so that was not surprising. But the fact they got ahead of you was surprising, if not shocking.
“Illumi- (Y/n). The both of you may come out now- you’ve nowhere to run.” Chrollo he clapped his hands once and you saw them all glow again, their ‘nen’ most likely.
“This isn’t good, I can not lead them back to your home.” Illumi muttered- knowing he couldn’t risk his employer’s safety.
“Thank god these windows are tinted…” Hisoka whistled, knowing he couldn’t let his team know he’d betrayed them. Uvogin smashed his fists together, a look of irritation on his face. “Boss! Give me the world and I’ll smash that car to bits! Including that Zoldyck bastard!”
“So much of our time was wasted tonight, we should have killed the girl when we had the chance.”
“I agree…” The small man said- or Feitan. You think that was his name.
“Fuck we’re trapped…” You muttered. Just then, you heard the voice speak. ‘Let me take over.’
“What are you talking about?!” You cried, both Illumi and Hisoka giving you incredulous looks.
“She can hear voices.” Hisoka comments.
“Ah.” Illum replied.
‘You are still inexperienced with nen and combat, you can extend your shield but that will not be enough to aid you- but I can, allow me control for the moment, I will deal with this for you.’
“Okay, but can I trust you to give it back to me? I’m not exactly sure how I feel having a man take control of my body.”
“It's like we don’t exist.” Hisoka muttered.
“You are the host, you can take back control whenever it pleases you, but for your information, if you die, I will die and I’ve already done that once and I don’t plan on doing it again.”
“We’re gonna die…” You muttered. Before falling back into your seat before nodding your head. “Go for it..” You had nothing to lose at this point, it was a situation that could mean life and death and as strong as Hisoka and Illumi were, you doubted that they would have the strength to take on all the phantom troupe. You felt weightless- a sensation of another being sliding into your skin was an odd one, like someone taking the skin of your hand and sliding their own into it as if it were a glove and yet you could feel the very sensation, course through the entirety of your body, it scared you and yet you were conscious the entire time.
“Go for it?” Illumi asked, as you closed your eyes, when you opened them again, he felt shock for the first time in years. “Nanika..?”
“Whose Nanika?” Hisoka question.
In a state of co consciousness, you open the door and stretch your shoulders “What are you doing, get back in the car!” Illumi demanded.
“I’ve got this.” You said, not your words but his. ‘So, what do I call you?’ you asked from the recesses of your mind.
“That will be up to you, I can not remember my name.”
‘Well, you are just a voice in my head- how do you feel about Koe?’ You asked.
“It will do.” Koe spoked as he stood ten meters away from the infamous troupe before you. Illumi appeared by your side, grabbing your wrist. “Don’t be a fool. They’ll tear you apart in seconds.”
“He is right, you know. I don’t receive any joy from doing this- you should come quietly if you know what's good for you.”
The woman pakunoda took out her gun, the man with the sarashi slid out his katana, Shizuka had her weird vacuum cleaner with a mouth. The pink haired ninja had the threads that ran between her fingers, Feitan had his umbrella, the man Phinks cracked his knuckles. You examined each character within your line of sight. “Come now, the last thing we want is for things to get ugly.”
“Ugly?” Koe spoke. “I’lL sHoW yOu UgLy.”
Just then, your body began to expand in size, Your long legs were replaced by gargantuan apendages that you dare say looked like kraken tentacles, several arms popped out of your back and from within the roots of your hair came worms with with teeth like a sharks. Your mouth became larger and wide as more teeth filled in the empty as what ever pace that was left in your face was filled with eyes. Your dresss had ripped and what was exposed was filled with eyes as well. Everyone watched in horror as you became an eldritch monstrosity that could only be thought up in scary stories.
‘WHAT THE FUCK?!?!?!?’ You screamed internally. You were hideous, disgusting this-
This was you.
“Let there be…… CaRnAgE!!!!!!!” Koe demanded as he rushed forward, everyone rushed away as fast as they could, only one did not get away fast enough. One of your giant hands wrapped around the yellow haired boy’s waist as you raised him up, Koe thinking if he squeezed him hard enough, his eyes would pop off from his skull. “BoN aPpEtIt!” Koe attempted to throw him inside your gaping mouth. However, a pink string found itself on him, quickly pulling back.
Hisoka appeared catching the boy before letting him fall to the ground. “Hope I’m not too late~”
“Where have you been all this time?!” The pink haired girl growled as Uvogin rushed forward and punched you.
“TAKE THIS!” He proceeded to punch you furiously, it did indeed hurt but Koe did not let it show as grabbed him by his leg. “Homo sapien..!” He growled before smacking him against the ground as if he were a rag doll. Once, twice and three times before throwing him away. “ARGH!” Uvogin roared, skidding across the asphalt road, his nen protecting him from any damage Koe could have done to him.
“What’s going on now?!” The man named Phinks cried out as he stood at your left with the man named Feitan. Both ascertaining the situation, what was the best solution to kill you. Your extra appendages made a sweep of the ground floor, all dodging to the best of their abilities, all fighting back against Koe’s advances.
The man with the katana even manages to slice one of the tentacles that got too close- but that ended with Koe quickly growing back another in the blink of an eye before smacking the man away. ‘What have you done to me?! I am hideous!’ You squealed internally, looking at yourself through the many eyes that now literally your ginormous and deformed body.
‘This is what it means to be one of us. Beautiful on the outside- an abomination on the outside. It's how we learn to pray, by deceiving them into thinking we are angels- but we are so much worse than that. We will feel on them first and then we must hunt for more- that is our way.’
You didn’t want this- you never wanted this!
Sure, in the beginning, you never really cared much for your looks, you were born beautiful and you thought you’d always be beautiful. Your entire career centred around your beauty and convincing others that they can hope to be as beautiful as you. You have been called ugly, but only by men whose advances you’ve rejected because you knew they weren’t good enough for you- they’d call you ugly in the hopes of diminishing your self esteem, but those words could never harm because it would be so easy to find another man who would call you beautiful the minute he saw you.
But now?
You took it all for granted. Your beauty, your loveliness and your seductiveness. You were a monster now, a horrible, ugly and loathsome monster- they all see you as what you are, an ugly monster not worthy of love. What if the world saw you like this? What if your mommy and grandma saw you like this? What would your daddy think?!
“Kill them Koe- kill them all! I can’t let anyone know about this! I can’t let them see me like this!”
However, Koe did not respond. Too focused on the man before him. Chrollo Lucilfer, the man in question, held a book in his hand while looking up at your monstrous form with pure awe and wonder eyes.
And then you were hit with a *BANG* and Koe had to stomp his many appendages on the ground to halt you from tumbling over. “I have severely underestimated our strength, the longer we continue this fight, the more we back ourselves into a corner!” ‘How come?! You said you’d take care of this!’ “I draw strength from the nutrition we intake- we need three times the protein a human must intake daily and yet you only have half of that on a daily basis which means I don't have the strength to fight back!” “Then what do we do Koe?! We can’t die like this!” “I have an idea, it is risky and can do alot of damage to you, but it will give us the chance to slip away- I say we give them what they want!”
The pores of your deformed body began to emit a strange vapor, something akin to mist. “What is she doing now?!” The man in the sarashi shouted. And before you knew it- you burst into crystals.
“Take cover!” Shouted Uvogin as the phantom troupe dodged and used their nen to shield themselves from the onslaught of sharp and deadly diamonds scattering across the area like a hailstorm. Although weary and half conscious- Koe managed to pull you away from the blast and hide your body.
“Wha- What did you do….?” You groaned, your hand weak and achy, you attempted to touch your face- however, through your shaky vision, all you could see was a thin and bony hand. “What have you done…?!” Your cried
‘Your real body was hiding under the layer of obstruction that I was in control of- we turned that layer into diamond and exploded on impact- however I had to use whatever nutrition I could find in your body to make it happen.’
Looking down at yourself, you were all skin and bones- it was horrifying. It looked like you had severe anorexia- like you pride yourself on not eating and you couldn’t decide what form of yourself was worse, you when you were a monster with severe limbs, eye and tentacles or when you look like a bitch who did too much crack. your hair looked like it was frayed and dead and the only thing that covered your were your nude undergarments that didn't cover much at all.
Bigger question. How were you getting out of here?
“(Y/n)!” Appearing in your line of vision, Illumi appeared, observing your appearance. “The troupe is distracted, we need to leave while we can.”
“Just take me home…. Take me home…!” You cried.
Tonight was too much for you to handle, far too much. You have faced death more times than you could handle, your body and your life have been irrevocably changed forever and worst of all, you were hungry. So, so, so, fucking hungry. Illumi picked you up and ran off into the forest while the troupe collected the spoils of your defeat.
.
.
.
“(Y/n)! My baby!” Your mother cried as Illumi carried you in through the door. “Where is her room?” He asked, You father joined you by his side as he led you both to the elevator, your room being situated on the third floor. “What has happened to her? What did those maniacs do to my daughter?”
“It had more to do with Scarvoski and less with the Troupe. It would appear he was messing about with dark artefacts and your daughter the unknowing victim.”
“That Bastard!” Your father cursed as they exited the elevator and carried you to your room. It was so good to be back in your room, the sense of familiarity giving you great relief as you were laid down on your king sized circle bed. “Call the physicians and have them here now!” Your father demanded of the butler.
“I’m hungry…” You whined.
The doctors came to see you, your mother and grandmother came to see you- finally your private chefs came and delivered you your meals. First it was a Stout cooked brisket you wanted, then a honey glazed ham, then you demanded a medium rare steak and then some pulled pork. Yet despite all the food you had ingested, you were still hungry.
“Are you feeling any better?” Illumi re entered your room, his hands by his side as he sat down in a seat next to your bed. “What are you still doing here? Has my father not paid you yet?”
“Oh, he did and then some. He is very glad to have his only daughter back. I came to check on you- because I was concerned about your condition.”
“My condition? Have you become fond of me? I have that impression on people…” You chuckled, now clean and in some nightclothes as you laid in your bed.
“I wouldn’t say that- but rather, a morbid interest in you.” You don’t know if you wanted to ask more in detail about what he was talking about but you may as well since he was still here. “Do you know much about the Dark Continent?”
“I had a Great Grandfather who traveled there twice- not an area to linger in for long. And that voice- who was it that you were talking to?”
“I dunno, they can’t remember their name- so I just call ‘em Koe. They’ve decided I am worthy of the diamonds because I am quote ‘beautiful’ and that was the only qualification they needed…”
“Makes sense, these diamonds do suit you and if you were any less attractive, they would certainly stand out.”
You give him a look. “Thanks. Illumi.” He nodded his head, seemingly to take your sarcastic gratitude as it was. Your stomach growled and you groaned. “Why am I still hungry?!”
“It must mean you need more than normal nutrition demands…!” He stood up. “Perhaps you need to see the physician again-”
“No need.” A figure appeared in your window. There stood Hisoka, the book you left behind under one arm while he carried an insulated container in the other hand. “It's you!” You smiled, sitting up before crouching over in pain. “Agh..! Sorry- I’m not feeling right…”
“What are you doing here?” Illumi demanded.
“Well, while the troupe were busy collecting those gargantuan diamonds you left behind, I got out while the getting was good, I have the book you took off Scarvoski-” He dropped the book at the foot of your bed before setting down the insulated container and opening it up. You could smell a rich- sweet and savoury scent in the air as the jester man pulled out a blood bag. “And I took a little detour to the blood bank.”
“Hisoka, thats-”
“I want that…!” You whined, practically jumping from your bed and falling to the floor. Illumi came around the other side to assist you but you grabbed at Hisoka’s pants, looking up at him. “Please Hisoka! I’m begging you- I’m so HUNGRY!”
“Well, I’m not one to tease a helpless and pathetic girl.” He smirked, letting you swipe it from his hands before ripping the top off and gargling down the blood. This one was rich in flavour, reminding you of those pan fried pork buns you had earlier that day, so delicious and tasty.
“Hisoka….” Illumi warned as Hisoka looked down at you, a tent forming in his pants as you ripped open another blood bag, devouring the savoury contents of that one. The bones behind your skin began to disappear as the flesh reappeared, your body slowly repairing itself, your place and depleted skin began to glow once more effortlessly in the light of your lava lamps and your hair that was strained and streaky was once again voluminous and silky.
“I feel so much better…” You remarked as you noticed the sun beginning to rise from beyond the horizon. “I was out all night, wondering if I’d ever be able to make it home to my family… but now that I’m back, it doesn’t feel real..”
“It's clear you need to adjust to some things, for one, a new diet consisting of blood but I’m sure your father will sort that out for you-” Illumi froze in his speech as your skin began to glitter in the sun’s glow. As if your skin had been embedded with millions of little diamonds. From the tips of your fingers, to the cheeks of your temples. You glowed like a diamond encrusted ring.
“You’re beautiful…” Illumi said breathlessly, Hisoka would have been surprised by that if he wasn;t busy being surprised by you.
There goes your days in the sun.
.
.
.
“My dear, are you awake?” Your mother asked as she entered your room, Hisoka and Illumi had left your home. You found yourself using your shutters to block out the sun. You went to bed at 6 am and woke up at 10 am, fully rested. Your mind went back to the book that you had taken off Scarvoski- your kind don’t require that much sleep.
It still baffles you that you were no longer human- even though you were one twelve hours ago.
“Yes Mama.” You answered, pulling the covers off of yourself as you wrapped your silk bathrobe with the extravagant fathers on the rim of the sleeves and tail. “Everyone is glad to know of your safety! We’ve been sent flowers and gifts all morning, come and see darling!”
Slipping in some Kitty Slippers, you and your mother traveled down the steps of your illustrious home and at the foyer were a mountain of roses and gifts, a line of envelopes which you could only guess were ‘Get well’ cards. “Isn’t it just amazing my dear?” She smiled, holding your hand.
“Would be, if it weren’t for those vultures outside the gate.” You Grandmother huffed, drawing back one of the curtains true to her words, an army of journalists and news reporters were calling for you outside your home. Asking how you escaped, wanting details of what your kidnappers ‘did’ to you and what not. “Where is that husband of your daughter?! Tell him to call the police already- my sugar plum has been through enough!”
You carried yourself back upstairs where you entered your private lounge. You flicked on your t.v and the first thing that greeted you was the news. The break in at the runway show, the death of Elsa Summers- one of the most renowned fashion orchestrators in the world. The possible suspects behind it and of course, the footage of your home from beyond the gates. At some point, you saw your grandmother there- demanding that they leave, that they’re ‘vulturing’ was unacceptable. With your phone in hand, you logged onto social media to see the amount of tags, comments and d.m’s you’ve received from fans, haters, friends and family.
“Your lifestyle is quite lavish and privileged. This is something we shall enjoy.” Koe said cheekily before continuing to list the things they would like for you to digest. You don’t know how you would get by, hearing someone’s voice in your head all the time.
“Miss Devereaux! May we come in?” Your assistant asked. You gave her the go ahead, she and some of the maids came in, carrying the roses and placing them on the table and cabinets, now properly placed in glass vases. “If you would like Miss, we’ll help you write all the thank you letters sent by your supporters!”
“Yeah- sorry. I’m just really tuckered out after that fiasco…” You say as you lean back on your sofa.
“Will I have the cooks make you your cucumber salad and fruit smoothie?” Your assistant asked. You nodded your head. “And a brisket sandwich please.”
“Another brisket? You sure are hungry today Miss!” Your assistant smiled as she went to the phone that looked like a pair of lips and asked the cooks for your order. “I’ll also call in Melinda for a recovery massage, you look like you need one miss.”
“Thanks….”
“Miss, why don’t you open some of these gifts, one of them will be bound to put you in a good mood!” The maids smiled, placing your gifts on the coffee table. You figured, why not. You liked getting free shit. You opened them up and found you had received expensive chocolates, self care from your favourite brands, brand new necklaces and earrings- even Scarvoski sent you something. Like that would make up for what he put you through.
One box stood out. A big heart shaped box covered in sparkly pink glitter and a silk golden bow. You opened it up and went through the lavender pager. Inside were your shoes from last night along with the rings and earrings. “What the….?” You searched through the box and found a note at the bottom.
‘Last night was a lot of fun, I do hope this gift finds you in better spirits. I enjoyed chasing you about- it felt like I was chasing after Cinderellla- although next time we meet- let me be the one to put your shoes back upon your feet.’
‘Yours always, Chrollo Lucilfer.’
That fucking creep. "He is a man who enjoys the hunt, I can respect that.” Koe says matter of factly, you don't understand. ‘He literally kidnapped me and nearly had me killed, what do you mean you respect that?’
‘Well he didn’t, in fact, I dare say he has become enthralled by you. If there's anything that men like him desire more than gold and fame is a woman who is hard to get. You challenged him and he doesn’t often receive that.’
‘Well I’m not a pushover, that's one thing. Granny always said if a man shows you disrespect, he becomes dead to you.’
‘And yet he wants you to acknowledge him, he wants your attention, the question is, what will you do know?’ he asked as your food was brought in, however in the moment, you couldn’t eat it, not. You rushed back to your room where you found your box full of blood.
On your bedside table was a half empty glass of prosecco from one of your girls' nights. You opened the shutters and allowed the sunlight to touch you, allowing your skin to glitter once more. You dumped the prosecco out the window and refilled it with blood.
“I Don't ever want anyone make me feel scared like that again… I won’t let anyone have that type of power over me ever again. Next time we meet, we need to be ready, do you understand Koe?”
“Understood, this my dear is our grand entrance.” He cackled as you chugged down the glass of thick rich blood.
Today was a new day.