#subdee

#2: least favorite fic you wrote this year

Least favourite is easily one of the ones I wrote for an event but that’s not public yet so of my public ones, I think Mad Girl’s Love Songs is probably my least favourite, it’s certainly I think one of the weaker parts of the Tattoo universe

Good morning and happy valentines’ day!! Over the past couple weeks, I have been participating in @killugonvalentines event and had a blast! Now I’m posting my super fluffy story for my valentine, @subdee!! I had fun talking with you more and getting to know you, and I hope you enjoy this story!!!! I hope you have a good day with the people you love ♥

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Gon blinked the dark spots from his eyes and shook his head to try and center himself. The movement caused him to sway slowly from where he hung upside down from a crane hook. He blinked again, trying to ground himself, forcing him back into the moment and back into what the man in front of him was saying.

“When the water is polluted, they’ll have to come to us. And pay out the nose for it.” He sneered. The man hunched over a console with a display flashing bright numbers in his eyes. They were currently stationed in one of those floating control hubs that hang over the harbor and ocean. It was a control center for maintaining freight crates coming off boats. It had been apprehended by a small group of eco terrorists, who had a long history of terrorizing people with toxic air, poisoned water, and unhealthy environments. They’d take a large payment to remove the imposed situation, then disappear. The high price tag on their bounty made them an obvious next mission to Gon and Killua. While Gon tailed the leader, Killua went after the grunts’ setup. 

Now, Gon may have been less careful than usual, but he didn’t mess up. The fact someone noticed him tailing them meant they were at the least organized and knew Nen. Before Gon could knock down the guy who noticed him, three more appeared and tried to overtake him. And while Gon could have taken all of them, he’d blow his cover, and lose any chance at more intel. So Gon allowed them to take him down, thinking maybe this would be the way to keep a better eye on him and get to hear his plans, since villains love to monologue.

(He did learned a few things from Killua over the years)

And he learned quite a bit from his target: how their operation’s chain of command worked, how they managed to get their attacks into positions so seamlessly, where some of their rats in low tier government were situated- lots of info to finish rounding up the rest of this organization after they get out of this pickle. The man took joy in thinking he bested the hunter Gon Freecs. It was obvious in the way he relished in the power he had over him and the drama of how he planned to kill him. Gon swayed as the chain he was hanging from jolted and moved forward over an opening on the floor for viewing the ocean and ships below. The man grinned devilishly, standing to his full height to glower at the hunter.

“Too bad you won't be around to see us make our getaway.” He purred. His words were accented by the waves crashing harshly below, sending sprays up and cooling Gon’s cheeks, hot with the blood pooling in his head.

“It's too bad you think you’ll get away with this.” Gon countered, a bit childishly. While getting thrashed in the ocean might earn him some new bruises, he just had to hold out until Killua got there. Bluffing was a good way of buying himself some more time. Even if it wasn’t technically a bluff. They definitely weren't getting away with this, Killua hated guys like this.

“We’ve already checked you over, Freecs- you aren’t bugged. You can’t scare us.” He sneered, even though the man did look significantly more on edge. Gon laughed as he realized the man thought he was alone. In a way it was lucky that he thought he was alone- he didn’t suspect Gon to have backup. 

“You’ve already lost. I hope it was worth it to drop me in here.” Gon winked. He went all in for the bluff, hoping to scare them into making mistakes. There was a good chance they wouldn’t get to make any moves before they found themselves in jail, to be fair. 

The man’s cheeks puffed angrily and he turned to slam his hand on a button on the console beside him. Gravity gripped hard on Gon as he was released, claw and all,down the open hole and his stomach flew to his feet. He sucked a sharp breath and hit the icy waters, just barely keeping his breath, and was thrashed about in the water. All he had to do was stay conscious- or in worse case, alive enough for Killua to retrieve. He didn’t really see himself going down the worst case path- between him and Killua, he still had the better lung capacity. 

While Gon wondered about the ways he trumped Killua's abilities in grade school comparisons, He didn’t see the flash of light fly into the harbor, effectively knocking out every target in the building and calling out for Gon. Gon did notice Killua’s en run over his body, and watched as Killua dove into the water and swam down after him. Killua grabbed him around the waist and  swam upward with strong strokes. They broke the surface, both panting for air.

“You’re a dumbass.” is what Killua used his first breath of air for.

“I have pretty good information.” Gon grinned with a cough. Killua rolled his eyes and swam him to shore. 

“Next time you pull a stunt like this, I’ll leave you in the ocean.” Killua huffed, tossing Gon’s body like a sack of potatoes on the beach and pulling his knife from his waist strap. 

“Then you wouldn’t get the info we need to finish the mission.” Gon answered cheekily, holding out his bounded arms for Killua to cut through. “Admit it, you need me.” 

Killua gave him a look of irritation but it held no heat. He quickly cut the rope, and pushed Gon’s forehead backward so he fell into the sand. 

“I’d have figured it out.” Killua countered, sticking out his tongue. Gon grinned in return as Killua held out his hand to pull him to his feet, the feeling of his hand in Killua’s familiar and wonderful all at once. 

“Well, I can always depend on you to pull me out of tough spots.” Gon said. 

“Why must you torture me so?” Killua pretended to lament, turning away towards the water, even though Gon suspected he was happy to hear it. It meant something different nowadays- and Gon wanted to make it mean something even more. 

Having been able to reunite with Killua on a random Hunter job one spring day meant getting to catch up again- letters and sparse phone calls didn’t do justice to how much they missed each other. Killua knew Gon had begun taking up Hunter jobs again after he improved his ten, since he admitted to him several times how staying in one place was driving Gon up a wall, but he wasn’t expecting to see Gon on the high level job Killua took just a couple months later. 

Somehow, it was like they never left, falling back into step with each other, watching each other’s back and knowing what the other was thinking before they even put the plan in place. Naturally, after that, they decided to continue traveling together, after talking through what their current goals are. Killua knew what he wanted from life and wasn’t afraid to call Gon out on his stupidity when the time comes. And Gon gave more thoughts to his actions, considering way more facts before acting now, and it allowed them to talk about what they wanted from each other without it becoming a fight or uncomfortable. They knew themselves now, and it made knowing each other that much easier. 

And over time, Gon was able to place these feelings that came with the excited thrill of seeing Killua waiting for him at a transport depot, his bed head after camping out, or laughing at something stupid he said. The amount of joy that filled him when he was able to watch Killua work, the understanding that this man would watch his back the same way Gon would watch him, the easy skill he wielded like art. Gon was pretty sure he felt everything for his best friend. But he hasn’t found an easy way to say it. In a way, Gon wasn’t sure he deserved to. But he knew, over everything, Killua deserved to know he meant it. He just had to do that. His thoughts rattled around as Killua walked back over to the deck by the water.

“Come on,” Killua sighed tiredly, “Let’s get these dummies on the truck and write up the report. The sooner we deal, the safer people will be.” He said, looking up at the hub he detained the terrorists in. Killua sucked his teeth in irritation. “Preying on these people who can’t help themselves. I hate it.” 

Gon smiled, knowing how much hate Killua developed for manipulative people, and a high vengeance against those that turned people’s defenselessness against them. He wanted to make a better change in the world, however small. Gon broke the ropes around his ankles and he joined Killua’s side, where they jumped back up to the harbor. 

“You got them and that’s what matters. And the pay’s not too bad.” He winked, nudging Killua’s shoulder and going ahead to pick up the knocked out men on the ground. They didn’t stand a chance. He winced at a bad looking bruise on one of them. Killua didn’t pull any punches.  

“Real funny. Now let me know what you learned about these sickos.” Killua said, going to the console and removing the toxic bomb the terrorists prepared to damage the waterways.

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***

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Gon watched Killua shimmy across the crumbling wall of the inner temple, being nimble enough to traverse the broken, small ledge between the wall and floor without the danger of hurting himself. Gon was always pleased with watching Killua work- it was an amazing balance of skill, technique, and deadly beauty. It was amazing, and made Gon want to work harder to keep up. While he might never match Killua’s flawless looking skill, he can work to have the ability to perform the same. 

Now he just had to resist the urge to shout and mess Killua up every now and then.

“I can see what you're thinking, and don’t you dare.” Killua said, even though he could hear the laughter in his voice. Gon must have been making a face that gave him away. 

“That wasn’t even a challenge for you, I only want to see you succeed!” Gon countered, snatching the rope that was tossed at him. Killua secured the rope on his side, which allowed them an easy way across.

“As if, that was not why you were thinking that.” He said matter of factly as Gon shimmied his way across the rope. The vast pit was filled with old but sturdy spikes, holding the ‘adventure style’ skulls in place below. “Now get your head in the game, Gon. There’s a lot of dangerous traps in this temple, and I don’t need to turn around to find you sticking out of a pitfall.” He said. Gon reached the other side with a quiet grunt. Maybe he did notice him being distracted with other things.

“I’m not that fragile, Killua. I’m just always impressed by your ability.” Gon said, hoping the blunt way he said it would help Killua know he was being honest. 

“Save the flirting for off the clock work, Freecs.” He said, cheeks pink. No such luck. 

“I try to, but you always find a way to turn me down.” Gon countered, skipping to his side to keep up with the taller man as they continued down the sandy temple’s halls, ducking under collapsed supports or cobwebs. Being half buried would do that to you. Gon would know- the sand gets everywhere.

“Maybe if you had some class.” Killua teased, throwing his arms behind his head. He never got rid of that habit when he was feeling playful.

“I have class, you just like to turn me down. Clearly you don’t know good when it’s standing in front of you.” Gon said, hands on hips like striking a pose was going to prove to Killua just how much good was standing in front of him. Killua laughter rang down the hall.

“Why don’t you give me a reason to say yes, then?” Killua baited with a teasing lift to his smile, unable to help himself. The thrill that ran through Gon at the challenge was involuntary- everything about Killua made Gon excited. He opened his mouth to retort, when a low rumble disrupted them. 

They quickly prepared for flight if the tunnel was collapsing, while also placing their footing on the ground near the wall, where it was more secure, and lowered their stance. But after examining the tunnel, and listening for the possibility of the building falling down, they heard nothing else. They straightened up, exchanging glances.

“What was that, then?” Gon asked. Killua grumbled ‘i dunno’, moving forward more carefully. How useful. Gon went with, listening for any changes. He paused a moment later when a voice drifted up from ahead.

“Is anyone there?”

Gon and Killua once again looked at each other before carefully rushing forward, then peering over the edge of a broken down hall, where debris and sand made the decline dangerous and difficult to achieve. It must have collapsed however long ago in the ancient tunnels. This wasn’t a direction the two planned to go, since it wasn't where the scarab beetle they were sent to retrieve was located (that was in the tomb room, where all the treasures were stored, and by Killua’s calculations, this went towards some temple room) but once they glanced down, they saw someone had decided this was their way to go. And by the looks of it, that person must of regretted it a whole lot. A man, looking fairly ragged, paced at the bottom of the collapsed path, seeming to try and climb up the landslide. He looked like he could pass away with relief when he met their eyes.

“Ah, hello!… you wouldn’t happen to have some rope… and you’re not tomb raiders, are you?” He asked meekly. Gon chuckled as Killua stood, checking their supplies.

“Just one second, and we’ll have you out.”

“What if we pretend to be tomb raiders, just for a second?”

“Killua!” Gon hissed, though he couldn’t hide his laugh.

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Killua helped look over the archeologist’s notes, and readjust them to actually lead to the tomb room, which is where the man was heading before getting trapped down there. Luckily, he was only there a few hours. Now with his help and information, all three headed towards the tomb room together. The man excitedly told them the signs that let them know if they were getting closer, and Killua and Gon handled the traps. It was going much smoother with the knowledge of the archeologist. 

And if the scarab beetle disappears from all that treasure under his nose, who’s to say why.

Gon watched Killua a moment again. The relaxed but strong way he held himself, the sharp look in his eye that let Gon know he was paying attention to every detail, waiting to see if something would go wrong. Gon knew he wanted to have a chance to show Killua how he really feels, show him affection he deserves. But how to ask Killua on a serious date- one that Killua knows is all for him? Afterall, Gon used to give out ‘dates’ when he was younger, and Killua couldn’t really know if this date he asked of him was because they were such good friends and wanted to spoil him for a night or something. A simple request might be too casual, or an excuse for Killua to treat it more friendly. Gon wants to ensure the date they have is a way to express the way Killua makes him feel.

They entered the tomb room soon after, and after parting ways with the archeologist (making sure he won't be lost again) they retrieved the beetle and went back to town. That’s a mission success in Gon’s book and that meant going out to eat. It was his favorite made up ritual with Killua, and a good way to unwind after all that tension. He took him to a local favorite, and was pleased they were quickly seated.

But, Killua of course got the sweetest drink the restaurant had. Killua laughed at the face Gon made at his sugared up drink order. He was sure it was a mix of horror and disgust. Gon’s stomach was twisting just looking at the thing.

“Hey, someone has to balance out all the spicy food you eat.” Killua grinned mischievously at his best friend. Gon arched his brow. If Gon was the reason Killua ate so much sugar, he was cutting every spice from his diet.

“I doubt the universe gave me you to balance out my spicy with the horrible amount of sugar you eat.” He said, waving a fork at him.

“You underestimate the way balance exists in the universe.” Killua countered, sipping at his candy cocktail.

“Hm. Well, I do believe the universe gave me you for a reason.” Gon said mystically, sipping at his water. Killua scrunched his nose, displeased. Gon smiled into his cup at the reaction.

“Corny. The universe led us together to cause trouble.” Killua said and hooked feet with Gon under the table. 

“For who?” He asked.

“Everyone.” He said easily, making Gon burst out laughing. Killua smiled at the excellent reaction.

“Maybe so. I try to keep you off their tail.” Gon teased. He breathed out gently, looking Killua in the face. “Hey..” Gon started, waiting for Killua to give him real attention, so what he says next isn’t lost on him. Now or never. “Can I take you out some time?” he asked. 

Killua placed his glass down, looking on the verge of spitting up his drink, cheeks red.

“Huh? What’s this about?” He asked between unbelieving and surprised, picking at his food to feign disinterest. Gon made a moue. What was the easiest way to go about this? He doesn't want Killua pulling away, he wants all of his intentions on this date. For him to see it seriously, or at least let Gon treat it seriously. 

“At the next mission, if I do something cool, will you do me that favor? I want to- practice and better myself, for when I’m ready to date.” He said, waving his hand this way and that. Killua paused his mindless picking to give him an appraising glare from under his bangs. Gon was a terrible liar, and Killua knew that, so he was probably trying to discern what Gon was really getting at. But this way, Gon has somewhat of a guarantee Killua will be available to the date, as a favor. After a few more moments, Killua hummed.

“Let’s see how cool you’ll be next mission.” He said with a challenging grin.

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**

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Gon was nervous- which he wasn’t usually. But being impressive in Killua’s eyes wasn’t easy, and the mission didn’t really call for it. An escort mission was low action even on good days, and this time was no exception. Even if something exciting did happen, doing his job wasn’t called impressive. He’d need something a little extra, so Killua had to admit it and come on the date. What that thing was, Gon didn’t know. 

Thus his nerves concerning the mission.

They traveled through the forest with their escort, a dark skinned ambassador that needed to reach his home city in an exotic country for safe keeping. They didn’t have any information on anyone trying to assassinate or track down the guy, but he preferred having the cover of safety while moving in and out of the embassy. The forest path was well defined and easy to traverse. They would be at their destination very soon. This was so unlucky- Gon didn’t think a huge bird with electricity resistant feathers was gonna fly low enough for Gon to punch successfully and totally impress Killua. With the cheeky grin Killua gave him when they rounded the bend where they could see the city, he knew it too. 

Luckily (or is it unluckily? Gon would never wish danger on people ever just cause he needed to flex on his best friend, no way), his chance came close to the edge of town. They were coming up the road to town when the ground  rolled like a wave in the ocean, and burst Gon forward. He landed on his hands and knees, but quickly jumped up, watching the ground buckle finally, dropping through. The ambassador who was thrown backwards fell through as well. Killua let out a cry, obviously ready to jump after him, but the ground burst in strange yellow looking dust. Dust wasn’t exactly right by a second look- it was the spores of a dangerous plant- poisonous only because it stuck to every part of your airways, and restricted your breath. A small pocket of the plant must’ve grown under ground, and it’s spore cycle caused the ground to buckle under its need to release. 

“We need to get him out of there.” Killua said, coming to the same assessment as Gon. Gon gripped his arm to get his attention. 

“You get the doctors- he gonna need it. I’ll get him out.” Gon said, and before Killua could finish his statement of ‘don’t be a dumbass’, Gon bounded forward and jumped down the hole, holding his breath.

“You- idiot!” Killua hissed, and snapped on godspeed, gone the next second. He arrived in town and told the medics to book it to the path leading to town, where they’ve found a spore trap.

Gon landed at the bottom of the pit, careful not to land on the ambassador. He recognized the spore cloud as well as a native, and was doing his best to cover his nose and mouth. Gon gave him a nod and scooped the man up. Luckily for Gon, he had a solid high jump before he learned nen. He crouched, gathering his strength in his legs and boosting himself out of the hole with the ambassador. The medication to clear up the spores from your body was easily accessible, and can be effective if used quickly. The recovery was just a total pain.  

“It’s ok, help is coming.” Gon said comfortingly, giving him a look over once they were a safe distance from the spore cloud. The man nodded, coughing slightly into his hand. Just as he said that, the group of doctors and Killua came rushing over, placing the ambassador in the carriage to wheel back to the clinic.

Gon sat on his butt with a pleased grin, and Killua stood in front of him with hands on his hips.

“Pretty brave right?” Gon asked. Killua’s brow twitched in irritation.

“Brave and reckless are two different things.” Killua countered before squatting down in front of Gon. “Open your mouth.” He said softly, holding his chin. Gon knew what he was looking for, but he still couldn’t help the heat that rushed to his face or the pleased feeling from his attention. 

Gon opened his mouth, and stuck out his tongue a bit. Killua tilted Gon’s head this way and that, checking if any spores latched itself to his airways. He stood again after a moment.

“Better safe than sorry. We’ll grab some medication and take you to Leorio.” He said, sighing like it was a hassle.

“That’s a good thing!” Gon said, popping up excitedly. “We haven’t visited in a while.” Gon winced at a hard pinch in his throat and turned his head to cough. Killua glared, full with worry.

“Ok, we’re leaving right now.” He said, poking Gon’s head roughly, then turned to go up the path towards town. Gon went after him, poking his side and trying to keep him from worrying too much. If there was one thing Leorio and Killua had in common, it was that they were good at worrying..

“Killua, it’s not that bad!”

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**

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“Not that bad?! The real issue is you kids work too hard and don’t rest enough. Have you even been eating well?” Leorio complained from the stove top, stirring a thick red liquid. Killua leaned on the counter next to him in the tiny kitchen. 

Gon was due for bed rest after taking the medication for the spores- because, as usual, recovery from the spore hurt like hell. Gon listened in from where he was tucked into Leorio’s bed in his tiny room in his tiny apartment, half dazed from the tiredness he felt in his bones.

“We rest plenty, old man. Between missions, we hole up in hotels and eat good food.” He heard Killua counter. Leorio let out old man grumbling sounds about not being old.

“That’s not rest. That's a break. Have you guys ever headed home just to be there a while? Visited Mito or did something just for you, not a mission? This kind of stuff is good for your mind and body.” Leorio said, voice drifting in and out as he shuffled around the kitchen. He did hear Killua say anything for a moment then they exchanged some more quiet words, or maybe Gon had drifted to sleep. But soon after, he heard Killua come in and Gon gave him a bleary grin.

“Still scolding your head off?” Gon asked. Killua nodded, sitting next to him and stroking through his hair once. Gon let out a quiet hum at the gentle touch.

“You know it. Doctor’s orders, you gotta drink all of this.” He said, placing the cup by his head. Killua then sat back in his seat, his chin in his hand and uncharacteristically quiet. He usually stays this quiet when making plans, or getting in his head about stuff that makes Gon want to hit him over the head. Gon barely sat up and took the cup to chug, groaning as he finished. 

“Thinking good thoughts about me I hope.” He muttered tiredly. Killua let out a soft laugh, leaning forward in the seat. Gon felt warm at the smile on his face.

“Yea, Gon. I’ll go on the date with you.” He said. Gon was sure the universe turned off all sounds and turned the volume up on Killua. Was he having a fever dream? Or did Leorio and Killua plan a little joke? He’d clear out his ear if lifting his arm didn’t sound like a whole endeavor right now. 

“You’ll… go out with me?” Gon asked. Gon was pleasantly surprised to see Killua blush but he  nodded.

“Yea, I- we need a break anyway, and it should be fun. So, I’ll help you out.” He said. 

Gon let his breath flow out of him- he hadn’t even realized he was holding it, and nodded eagerly. “I’ll make sure you don’t regret it.” He grinned. This was his chance, and he wouldn’t blow it! Killua smacked him hard on the back, causing Gon to let out a sudden ‘oof’.

“Why don’t you make sure you get better first.” Killua grinned.

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**

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They traveled to a home the two of them bought a while back, in a sleepy mountain town, just on the edge of the forest. Gon had wanted to start a garden, and they were both into the idea of making their own produce- they even had a small coop filled with chickens, and a small tree farm area.

It was someplace Gon and Killua decided to get together, for when they wanted to rest and take it easy- nothing too big or gaudy; just enough to be comfortable.

Gon had fully recovered before they left Leorio’s place for home (With lots of ‘see you soon’s and ‘take care of yourself’), and now that they were here, Gon’s stomach was twisting again, this time with anticipation. Luckily, he knew the date didn’t have to be perfect or overly cheesy like he’s used to doing (Killua hates cheesy things). It just had to be good, in a fun and simple way that they’ll both enjoy. Gon will put his heart into that, to make sure Killua feels what he means by the end of this night.

He finished his attire with something simple- a black tee and dark green cargo pants and his signature boots. They’ll be traveling around a bit, so comfortable shoes are a must. He went to the living room, where Killua sat with his legs crossed. He was leaned back on the couch, head back as he dazed out in thought. He blinked over at Gon as he noticed him come in and stood with a nervous pat to his pant legs, but smiled kindly all the same. He wore black and white checkered shirt, and grey pants with strange dark grey wiggly designs running down the length.

“Couldn’t dress up for me?” Gon teased as Killua stood. 

“Excuse you, this is my nicest attire.” He said with a smirk, reaching Gon’s side. Killua paused, unsure how to proceed. Lucky for him, Gon has thought this date through for hours, and knew generally what to do about any situation. Though Killua being shy is a situation he’s always ready for. He took Killua’s hand and gave him a smile.

“Let’s head out then.” He said. Killua flushed and nodded.

“Where to first?”

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“I heard this place has the best sweets.” Gon said, holding open the door for his date. Killua brightened up immediately, like a kid in a candy store. Though, honestly, that just might be what he is. Killua skipped up to the display case and looked over the colorful desserts inside. It was boasted as the best up the mountain, towns littered all over the landmark making the trek to buy some. Gon joined his side at a more leisure pace.

“Oh man, all of this looks amazing.” Killua put a hand to his chin in thought. “I might just need a sampler plate.” He muttered.

“They offer that. I’m not so dumb as to bring you to a new bakery and not expect you to want everything on the menu.” Gon shrugged matter of factly, gesturing to the baker behind the counter for the sampler plate. Killua smacked his arm with a big grin.

“You know me too well, Freecs! Man, I wonder who’s gonna get so spoiled by you.” He winked, taking the plate with a thank you, and taking a seat. Gon smiled at the inside joke with himself. that person would be you! Gon joined him at the table.

“Who would I be, if I didn’t do my research?” Gon asked.

“You.” Killua countered, picking up a small bonbon. “Though you never put more of yourself into something than when you’re trying to plan a date.” He smiled around the bite. Gon gasped dramatically.

“I take offense to that. I put a lot of effort into my nen training.” He said cheekily, hooking feet with Killua under the table.

“Too easy. Dates are way harder. I can understand the need to practice.” Killua hummed, finishing his bite.

“Hmp, there’s no better way to get better than practice. But I want to focus on you today, not on the idea of the date.'' Gon said, picking up a small custard pastry, holding it up to Killua. Killua’s cheeks pinked, but he just gave Gon a meaningful look and took a bite from his hand. Honestly, he wasn’t expecting it and the sweetness of the action made Gon smile, feeling the warmth of the action radiating off his hand and wrapping up his arm like a gentle fire. 

“Mm, you just like to spoil.” Killua pretended to grumble.

“That’s true. But I like to spoil you the most.” Gon countered, smiling at his successful attack. Killua turned his head with a grumble of ‘stop being embarrassing’. Maybe he can still be a little cheesy on this date.

Gon walked him through the park where he knew a small gathering of cover bands were doing a ‘music in the park’ type event. The two hunters danced and listened to music, sitting and singing along with a lot of cover songs they only half knew through Zushi or Alluka. They laughed plenty and talked with a couple locals, getting to know more of the neighborhood. After all the fun they had there, Gon led him to a newly opened restaurant.

“Oh, Terrainmedan. It’s been a while!” Killua said, hopping with excitement. Gon laughed, still on a high from the day’s fun events.

“I’ve heard good things- fresh fish, and good flavors.” Gon said, leading them inside. “Do you think they have anything properly spicy on here?” Gon asked, looking around the restaurant and sniffing at some aromas.

“Ok, pup, down boy. I still don’t get why you would subject yourself to torture and eat spicy food.” Killua scoffed. Gon raised an amused brow at him.

“Kurapika told me it gives you endorphins.” He tried. The conversation was as tried and true as their friendship- if they’re going out to eat, Killua was questioning Gon’s sanity for wanting to eat spicy.

“Who told you that you need more endorphins?” Killua grinned, hooking feet with Gon once they were seated at their table.

They ordered a large salad to share and another fish and couscous dish. They get lost in conversation as the day dims to evening. 

“And I still remember when you stupidly jumped in my way to take that blow from those idiots in Aduram.” Killua grinned. The frustration or fear from the memory no longer existed, only the laughter the results brought. Gon laughed, tossing his head back as the memory came back to him. 

“That guy was gonna get a sneak hit on you, and I wouldn’t have it. That's way too dirty of a trick.” Gon said, sliding his hand to fit inside of Killua’s on the table. His eyes flicked down to watch the movement, and maybe he was getting used to it, but Killua didn’t flush as hard as he thought. Killua retaliated by tightening his hold on his hand. Gon felt the butterflies from the tightened grip erupt from his stomach.

“Yea, and you’re all about fair fights.” Killua said with an eye roll, putting another bite in his mouth.

“Listen, there’s strategy and there’s dirty, and I can’t help but feel they were being underhanded. You were being attacked by 4 others, he could wait his turn.” Gon smiled. “I waited this long, it’s not too much trouble.”

“Yea? You waiting for something?” Killua asked coyly. Gon returned with just as sly a grin.

“I think I got what I was waiting for.” He said softly. Killua smiled a knowing smile and took another bite of food.

Gon took the long walk home, swinging hands slowly with Killua, talking mindlessly about whatever they wanted. It was a warm evening, surrounded by quietly rustling trees and chattering animals. They reached their home without much fuss, and Gon was pleased with how the date went. It didn’t feel out of place, and he hoped Killua felt at peace from it too. He looked at peace. Gon hoped it was a good sign. Killua gave a yawn, opening the door to go inside. 

“Mh, then let’s call it a night? That wasn’t too bad for a practice run?” He mused, but paused as Gon didn’t follow their joined hands into the house. Killua looked back at him and Gon couldn’t be sure he wasn’t making a face. He didn’t know if he had his emotions written all over it, but that wasn’t necessarily a bad thing. Killua did notice him wanting to say something and stepped back to his side, a somewhat worried expression. Gon didn’t want him to worry, wanted to smooth the crease in his brow. He did nothing wrong. 

“This date has been wonderful. But you know what usually comes at the end of these things?” Gon said, going for teasing, but maybe he sounded mortified. In his own ears, it sounded nervous, or maybe breathless. Killua looked confused a moment before blushing, red blotches that started on the bridge of his nose and streaked to his cheeks like water color on a white page. He looked off, as though keeping eye contact would be too much. It might be, honestly.

“Well… is that right? Would that be fine?” Killua asked. Gon nodded.

“Killua… I have to be honest. This wasn’t a practice date. I wanted to give you a real date, and to say… I love you. I’ve loved you for a while, and I wasn’t sure if it was my place to say, at first. But I wanted to prove it to you. And you don’t have to accept it, but I do love you, and I want to be more with you.” At some point, Gon had let his eyes wander to their joined hands. He looked back at Killua, looking for evidence of him being upset. He found him red cheeked but an amused expression.

“You aren’t exactly the best liar, Gon. It took me a bit, but I figured this was a real date for us…” He said, slightly embarrassed too. But his words made Gon excited- he figured it out but hadn’t said anything. Does that mean…? 

“I… Gon, we’ve been friends for years, and we know so much about each other, and it’s so easy to just hang out..!” Killua trailed off, apparently losing his will to confess. Gon smiled a bright thousand watt smile, feeling like his cheeks might split from it all, and brought their joined hands up to his lips.

“Are you trying to say you love me too?” He asked softly. Killua looked anywhere but him.

“I think it’d be weird not to, at this point.” He grumbled before finally meeting his eyes and smiling shyly.

“So, can I kiss you?” Gon asked quietly, stepping closer still. Killua’s cheeks got impossibly redder but he didn’t step back. Gon was incredibly endeared. He might float off his toes. Killua nodded, tilting his head down in preparation. Gon wasted no time to lean forward and capture his lips.

And the kiss was magical. It dashed any ideas of what he thought their first kiss would be like. Maybe the kiss itself wasn’t overly amazing- it’s not like him or Killua has had many years of kissing practice. But it was the feeling of kissing his very best friend, the person he’s grown to care for more than anyone in this world, sharing with him in this moment of shared want and love. It buzzed down his arms and floated him off the earth. His lips moved and he got dizzy. This one kiss let Gon know just how in love with Killua he is. 

They pulled back with a quiet pant, eyes closed, and Killua rested his forehead against Gon’s. Gon relished in the buzz of the kiss a moment longer before opening his eyes to look over Killua’s sharp features. In the next moment, he was pinned by his blue eyes. He felt a thrill run down his spine and he let a slow smile take his features.

“So… what now?” Gon asked quietly. As much as he wanted to take the leap, he did learn a lot from Killua. And he wasn’t going to plow ahead with his idea of what they should do next. He wanted this to be both of their decisions, and definitely something Killua would be comfortable doing. Killua worried his bottom lip a moment before letting out a breath.

“We now know how we feel about each other. But doing anything more would put a big target on our backs. Our enemies could target us to try and get the upper hand.” He said reasonably. “Let’s just take it slow, and have you finish relearning nen before anything else, ok?” He asked softly. Gon nodded, feeling like he was floating from the warm feeling in his chest.

“Sounds good to me. Now, there’s a pistachio ice cream with my name on it.” Gon said, turning to go inside, keeping their hands joined. Killua rolled his eyes, following after him.

“Ugh, pistachio? I change my mind, we can’t be in love.” He complained over Gon’s laughter. “But next time, I get to plan the date?” Killua said. Gon couldn’t smile wider.

“Fair enough, we both need the practice, apparently. Dates are notoriously difficult.” 

They went back into their mountain side home, content and ready to face whatever challenges come next.

End

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BONUS CONTENT

This was part of the scrapped story and I couldn't find it in me to delete it uwu so enjoy added lovey dovey stuff!!

**

Killua opened his eyes, eye crusties making it way harder than it had to be. An upbeat rock song played over his soundbar, the soundtrack of his rising from the dead.

Gon was lucky he was even waking up this early. Gon was staying overnight somewhere doing something as a favor to Kite, and needed someone to do early morning tasks for him.

To Killua, there’s no task that can’t wait til mid afternoon.

He sat up and stretched, arms high above his head and leaning left and right. His torso was littered in silver lines, scars that scattered on his skin like memories.

I’m walking up again knowing nothing really matters at all…

By the time Gon came home, Killua was sitting on the couch in one of Gon’s varsity sweaters (even though he never went to school- he collects them like a fanatic) and his sleep pants, sipping on hot chocolate. He glared at Gon with his baggy eyes as Gon dropped his stuff by the door and doubled over with laughter. He eventually sat up to wipe his tear from his eye.

“You look like death warmed over.” He grinned.

“Yea, I feel it. I had to wake up at the ass crack of dawn and it’s still too cold out.” Killua gave another gulp to his hot chocolate. Gon waddled over, shedding his coat and flopped next to him. Even though Gon just came from outside, he radiated warmth, and Killua scooted into his side.

“Thank you for waking up and taking care of my stuff for me.” Gon said, tossing an arm around him.

“Yea, well. What are best friends for?” He grumbled, pretending the warmth on his cheeks was from the heat of the cocoa.

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**

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When there’s always something there to remind me…

Gon danced in the most uncoordinated way Killua had ever seen across the kitchen floor, adding the walnuts he toasted to the top of the chicken salad he was composing. Killua figured he was making a face between a grimace and a huge smile. He can’t help it when Gon gets excited like this. Gon pretended to play the drums in time with the 80s pop song playing over the radio. He mouthed along with the words and caught Killua’s eyes. He grinned and winked like a performer and Killua pretended to gag.

“When are you going to get a taste in music?” Killua asked over the music with a smile.

“I have one!” Gon gestured like the music was a living person singing next to him. Killua rolled his eyes but couldn’t take his eyes off him. He was bright and filled the room with his energy in a way that was infectious. 

--

Has fandom ever ruined a pairing for you?

All of 'em. :/ Only good pairing is Cloud/ Fenrir sorry.

Has fandom ever made you enjoy a pairing you previously hated?

my brain hurts so this is video games only and the order is whatever and I’ve picked villains that I like rather than ones that are good at making me hate them

1. Kreia - Knights of the Old Republic 2

A cunning manipulator with a fairly excellent point who will forever be the pinnacle of what Star Wars can be when no one’s being a fucking coward about it. Also, the drama? The lies? The being my overbearing mom who can’t love me properly and just wants to drive me to greater and greater heights? All so good

2. Delita Hieral - Final Fantasy Tactics

Delita’s such an impressive villain because like you’re on his side, really, except that he is slipping so far that suddenly you are not. Some people see Delita as a second hero of this story, and that is because he is good enough at what he does to convince you

3. The Practical Incarnation - Planescape Torment

Planescape Torment is just excellent at showing you up-close the fucking horrifying amount of damage you’ve done to people as the Practical Incarnation, and calling him “the practical incarnation” is itself just so choice, what an evasive way to put it. Anyway, Justice 4 Deionarra

4. Sephiroth - FFVII

I am Contractually Obligated to include him on any such list, please peruse my tags on this blog or @cryoftheplanet​ for rationale

5. Emet-Selch - FFXIV

The latest addition to my catalogue, he’s got RANGE. I don’t usually go in for affably evil because it can get old quickly but he feels very naturally relaxed when he’s dicking around with you, yet still overflowing with pathos and human failure when he’s not. Honourable mention to Emet-Selch for being the most likely to call you and ask what you’d like from McDonalds

6. Sydney Losstarot - Vagrant Story

The inverse of Delita in the sense that he’s got all the trappings of villainy but is mostly... on your side? And mostly has the right of it in what he’s trying to do? Except of course that he’ll step on anyone and do absolutely anything in order to do that. It’s ok, I respect his conviction

8. Elizabeth - Bioshock Infinite

OKAY HEAR ME OUT, I know she’s NOT a villain as we get to know her, but Bioshock Infinite is basically just a time loop AU where we try to stop Elizabeth from becoming a villain and EVERYTHING we know about the Lutece’s suggests that this, as her end, is nigh-inevitable! And boy she’s got all the shit I love, from the tragic backstory to the unbridled rage to the sorrowful too-late realization that perhaps another way was available to the willingness to walk over who she has to walk over in order to save herself in the end. Fuck Burial at Sea and I’m happy she avoided her fate but we do stan regardless

9. Loewe/Leonhardt - Trails in the Sky

Staying as light on spoilers as I can here but Loewe’s like the epitome of the villain who knows what he’s doing is wrong and stupid but just cannot turn away from it because of his own darkness, rooted in heinous injustice, absolutely will not allow him to move on and heal. What kills me about him is that it still doesn’t stop him from seeing better paths for OTHER people!!!! I think he’s probably the least villainous on this list if we measure by harm done, a little closer to Sydney, but still going to count him.

10. The Radiance/The Hollow Knight - Hollow Knight

this is so hard sob ;___;

1. King's Maker: this manhwa has some seriously dark themes but it's so fucking good, and the sequel is just as great. absolutely chock full of drama and political intrigue, 10/10

2. Bad Boss: I re-read this one every few months. the male lead is the biggest asshole but you can't help but root for him in the end

3. The Flower That Was Bloomed By A Cloud

4. Death Is The Only Ending For The Villainess

5. Broken Melody