KHR: Decimo Primo

The air was alive with a mix of awe and tension as the students of Mafia School filed out of their vehicles. Before them stretched a vast expanse of land—a domain so meticulously designed that it could only belong to the Vongola. The territory was an impressive blend of tradition and modernity. Rolling green fields stretched out on one side, dotted with meticulously maintained gardens, while the other side featured advanced technological buildings whose sleek designs seemed to defy logic and physics.

Massive skyscrapers of glass and steel rose into the sky, their surfaces glinting under the morning sun. Some structures appeared to hover several feet above the ground, supported by technology that the public world could only dream of. A few students whispered to one another, pointing at the drones gliding silently above, monitoring the area. Others marveled at the sight of a massive fountain in the distance, its water cascading in gravity-defying spirals that shimmered with hues of gold and blue.

Tsuna stepped off the bus, his gaze darting around in amazement. He wasn't the only one—Basil, Raul, and Pantera stood beside him, their expressions ranging from astonishment to quiet reverence.

"This place looks like something out of a sci-fi movie," Pantera murmured, her dark eyes wide as they took in the grandeur.

Raul nodded, his voice hushed. "And to think this is just a branch. Imagine what the main Vongola estate must look like."

Before anyone could reply, the low hum of approaching footsteps drew their attention. A group of men in sharp black suits emerged from one of the nearby buildings, their movements synchronized and precise. At their head was a man who stood out immediately. He was tall and imposing, dressed in a perfectly tailored butler's uniform. His silver hair was neatly combed back, and his sharp, hawk-like eyes surveyed the students with a mix of authority and detachment.

When the group of suited men stopped a few paces away from the gathered students, the butler stepped forward, his every movement exuding discipline and poise. He bowed slightly, his gloved hands clasped neatly in front of him.

"Welcome to the Vongola Branch Headquarters," he announced, his voice smooth and commanding, carrying effortlessly across the assembled group. "My name is Sebastian, and I will be your guide for today. Please allow me to introduce my associates—members of the Vongola's elite security division. They are here to ensure your safety and to maintain order during your visit."

The men in black suits gave a synchronized bow, their expressions unreadable behind dark sunglasses. The students shuffled nervously, exchanging uneasy glances. Even Raul, who usually thrived on confrontation, looked uncharacteristically subdued.

Sebastian straightened and continued, his tone unfaltering. "The Vongola prides itself on its rich history and its ability to adapt to the ever-changing world. As future leaders and members of this society, you will have the rare opportunity to witness the inner workings of one of our most advanced facilities. Please follow me, and refrain from wandering off. This is, after all, a secure compound."

With a graceful turn, Sebastian began walking toward one of the pathways leading deeper into the compound. The students hesitated for a moment before following, the men in black forming a protective perimeter around the group.

Tsuna stuck close to his friends as they joined the throng, his mind racing with questions. What kind of surprises awaited them here? Who was the "special person" Iemitsu had hinted at?

"Stay close," Basil whispered, his tone wary. "Something tells me this is going to be more than just a field trip."

Pantera chuckled nervously. "When is it ever just a field trip with the mafia?"

As they walked, the students passed a variety of facilities, each more impressive than the last. There was a massive research center with walls of translucent blue, glowing faintly as if powered by an otherworldly energy. Beyond that was a training arena that resembled a coliseum, where faint echoes of combat could be heard. Some of the upperclassmen murmured excitedly, recognizing the arena as a famous Vongola training ground.

Finally, the group arrived at an expansive courtyard at the heart of the compound. The space was dominated by a grand building with towering pillars and intricate carvings depicting the Vongola's crest. A fountain in the center of the courtyard sprayed crystalline water into the air, its surface reflecting the sunlight like a pool of liquid diamonds.

Sebastian came to a halt at the foot of the grand staircase leading to the building's entrance. Turning to face the students, he spread his arms in a gesture of welcome.

"This is the Hall of Luminaries," he announced. "A place where the achievements and legacies of the Vongola's greatest members are immortalized. It is here that you will meet someone very important to your future in this world."

The students exchanged curious and apprehensive glances. Who could it be?

As if on cue, the massive double doors of the Hall creaked open, revealing a figure standing in the shadowed entryway. The students held their breath as the figure stepped into the light, their every movement exuding authority and power.

It was a woman, clad in a sharp white suit with gold accents. Her golden eyes glimmered with a mixture of warmth and intensity, and her long auburn hair flowed behind her like a banner. In her hand, she held a sleek tablet, and a confident smile graced her lips as she surveyed the group.

Sebastian bowed deeply. "May I present Miss Claudia Vontani, Head of Operations for this Vongola Branch. She will be overseeing your visit today."

Claudia's gaze swept over the students, lingering briefly on Tsuna before she spoke. Her voice was steady, each word carrying a weight that demanded attention.

"Welcome to the Vongola Branch Headquarters," she said. "I've been looking forward to meeting you all. Today, you'll get a glimpse into the heart of our organization. But make no mistake—this isn't just a tour. Consider it a test of your character and potential. The Vongola does not take its future lightly."

The air grew heavy with unspoken expectations as Claudia's words settled over the group. Tsuna's heart pounded in his chest. This was more than he'd bargained for, but there was no turning back now.

"Let's begin," Claudia said, her smile unwavering. "Follow me."

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The students filed into the first room of the Hall. The atmosphere shifted to one of reverence and curiosity. Lining the grand hall were wax statues of the Vongola bosses throughout the generations, each accompanied by their respective guardians. The statues were lifelike, capturing the essence of each leader and their comrades.

Claudia stopped before the first set of statues, gesturing gracefully. "Here stands Giotto, the First Boss of the Vongola. A man of unmatched courage and conviction, Giotto founded this Famiglia to bring justice and order to a lawless world. His guardians were not just his allies but his family, united by a shared vision."

Tsuna's gaze lingered on Giotto's statue. The resemblance was uncanny Giotto's calm and confident expression, his golden blond hair, and his dignified stance bore a striking similarity to Tsuna's own features, though Tsuna felt far less composed in comparison.

"Hey, Tsuna," Pantera whispered, nudging him. "That guy looks a lot like you. Except, you know, cooler."

"W-what?" Tsuna stammered, his face flushing. "No way. He's way out of my league."

Basil chuckled. "Perhaps it is destiny."

Claudia continued walking, stopping before the statues of subsequent bosses. Her voice carried authority and passion, weaving vivid images of the famiglia's storied past.

"Here stands the Second Boss," Claudia announced, gesturing to the imposing figure of a man with sharp, regal features and a fierce, determined expression. His stance radiated dominance, and his eyes seemed to burn with an unrelenting fire. "This is Ricardo, Giotto's younger brother, who inherited the mantle of leadership. Known as the Secondo, he wielded the Flame of Wrath—a powerful mutation of the Sky Flames that is said to be the most destructive flame of all. It was under his leadership that the Vongola's foundation was solidified. The famiglia transitioned from a fledgling organization into an indomitable force, feared and respected by all."

The students murmured among themselves. The sheer intensity of the Second Boss's gaze in the statue was unnerving, yet awe-inspiring. His guardians, each depicted with battle-worn expressions, stood with weapons ready, a testament to the bloody conflicts of their era.

In the back of the hall, Tsuna noticed a group of older students standing apart from the rest—Squalo, Xanxus, and Belphegor. Their presence was imposing, and many of the younger students instinctively gave them a wide berth. Tsuna tried not to stare, but it was difficult to ignore the way they seemed to command the room with their sheer presence.

Squalo's voice broke the hushed murmurs, his tone quieter than usual but still laced with conviction. "The Secondo," he said, staring at the statue with a rare note of respect in his voice, "was the strongest Vongola boss. No one could stand against him in battle. That's what made him a legend."

Xanxus smirked, his arms crossed as he leaned casually against a nearby pillar. "Of course, he was the strongest," he said, his voice low and dangerous. "The Flame of Wrath is unmatched. It's a flame only a chosen few can wield. Just like me." His red eyes glinted as he glanced briefly at the statue, his pride evident.

Belphegor chuckled, the sound unnerving. "The Second's strength made everyone else tremble," he added, his voice carrying a mocking edge. "Not even the First could compare."

Squalo nodded, gesturing toward the statue. "That's why Giotto disappeared during his reign. Everyone knows he couldn't handle his brother's power."

Xanxus's smirk deepened at this, and he added, "He fled because he knew the Secondo would surpass him. Just like the current Vongola should step aside for someone stronger."

The trio's words sent chills through Tsuna, though they were spoken in surprisingly restrained tones. He couldn't help but feel a pang of unease as he turned his attention back to the tour, Claudia's voice cutting through his thoughts.

Claudia moved to the next statue, her tone shifting to one of solemn respect. "Here is the Third Boss, known as the Terzo. His era was marked by betrayal and warfare. He inherited the famiglia during one of its darkest periods and had to rebuild trust and unity after internal conflicts nearly tore the Vongola apart."

The statue of the Third Boss was somber and imposing, his expression grim. His guardians, depicted as scarred and battle-hardened, stood as silent witnesses to the trials of their time.

"The Fourth Boss," Claudia continued, stopping before a figure with an intense yet thoughtful demeanor, "was a man of intellect and strategy. He is remembered for his cunning and ability to outmaneuver enemies both within and outside the famiglia. His era was one of careful expansion, where every move was calculated to ensure the Vongola's survival."

Next came the statue of the Fifth Boss. Claudia gestured with reverence. "The Quinto brought a golden age of prosperity and growth to the Vongola. He was a visionary, seeing opportunities where others saw obstacles. His guardians were innovators, each contributing to the famiglia in their own unique way."

The Sixth Boss's statue followed, depicting a man with a calm and composed expression, his hands clasped behind his back. Claudia explained, "The Sesto focused on strengthening the famiglia's infrastructure, ensuring its continued stability. He is known for his reforms that shaped the Vongola into the organization we know today."

Then Claudia stopped before the Seventh Boss. "The Settimo," she said, her tone softening, "is remembered as the weakest Vongola boss in terms of raw flame power. Yet, his ingenuity and determination were unparalleled. It was he who invented the Dying Will Gun, a tool that has since become iconic in the famiglia's arsenal. His legacy reminds us that strength comes in many forms."

Finally, Claudia reached the Eighth Boss, a figure exuding quiet determination. "The Ottavo," she began, "led during a time of great technological advancement. She embraced progress, integrating new tools and methods into the famiglia while staying true to its core values. Under her leadership, the Vongola remained at the forefront of innovation."

As the group reached the final statue, that of Vongola Nono, Timoteo, Claudia turned to the students. "And here stands our current boss, Vongola Nono. His wisdom and foresight have brought the famiglia unprecedented unity and influence. He is a symbol of strength and compassion, a leader who values the bonds that hold us together."

The students were silent, absorbing the weight of the famiglia's history. Tsuna glanced at Giotto's statue again, the resemblance undeniable. Yet, Giotto's calm confidence felt worlds away from his own anxious demeanor.

"Hey, Tsuna," Pantera whispered, nudging him with a teasing grin. "Still think you don't look like him? Admit it he's basically you, but cooler and with blond hair."

Tsuna flushed, waving his hands in protest. "N-no way! I'm nothing like him."

Raul smirked. "Maybe not yet, but who knows? You might surprise us."

As Claudia concluded her explanations and gestured for the group to move on, Tsuna cast one last glance at Giotto's statue. The thought lingered in his mind—what if his resemblance to the First wasn't just a coincidence?

He shook the thought away, his heart pounding. Whatever awaited him in the future, for now, he could only follow the group and hope he wouldn't get dragged into anything too overwhelming.

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Claudia continued to lead the group through the grand hall, her voice steady and engaging as she announced the next part of the field trip.

"The Vongola is not just history and tradition," she said, gesturing toward a corridor ahead. "We are a famiglia that continues to evolve and adapt. Now, let us explore the other branches of our operations, where the essence of what we do comes to life."

The first stop was the weapons manufacturing area. The group entered a vast, dimly lit chamber filled with the hum of machinery and the occasional spark of welding. At one corner, Tsuna noticed strange creatures—animals or perhaps monsters—tending to elaborate looms and other devices. Silky threads gleamed under the factory lights as the creatures worked methodically.

Claudia gestured toward the creatures. "This is where special materials, such as the silk used in flame-resistant suits, are produced. These creatures are trained to generate and weave materials that can harness and channel Dying Will Flames. In this facility, we create Dying Will bullets, flame-compatible weapons, specialized clothing, and other unique tools essential for our famiglia's operations."

Tsuna couldn't tear his eyes away from the creatures. "Those things… are they real animals?" he whispered to Raul, who stood beside him.

"I think they're modified," Raul replied, equally mesmerized. "But it's insane how… organized they are."

Pantera leaned closer, smirking. "Guess that's why the Vongola stays on top. They don't waste any resources, even if they're a little freaky."

The next stop was the technology research building. This area buzzed with activity, its sterile white halls filled with the hum of computers and flashes of holographic projections. Displays showcased advanced robotic designs, including models similar to Mosca, and prototypes of cutting-edge weapons.

Claudia gestured to a team of engineers working on a sleek, flame-powered device. "This is where our scientists and engineers innovate. The Mosca units you see are among our more prominent projects, but there's more. Many of the tools and weapons you'll encounter are developed here, combining traditional craftsmanship with modern technology."

Basil, always thoughtful, examined one of the displays closely. "The level of precision in these designs is remarkable," he mused.

Pantera rolled her eyes playfully. "Of course, you'd get excited about robots."

"Flame-powered robots," Basil corrected, smiling faintly.

Tsuna chuckled at their banter but kept his distance from some of the more intimidating displays. He wasn't sure how he felt about machines that could be powered by something as volatile as flames.

Afterward, they moved to the training area. Here, the air was charged with energy as mafia members sparred in open arenas, their Dying Will Flames flaring in bursts of vibrant light. Claudia explained that this was where members honed their combat skills and learned to master their flames.

"Watch closely," she said. "Each member's flame reflects their unique resolve. This is why training is critical—it's not just about strength but about control and refinement."

Raul nudged Tsuna, his eyes wide with excitement. "Did you see that guy? He just turned his sword into a flame whip!"

"Yeah," Tsuna said, "but doesn't it look… dangerous?"

Pantera grinned. "You're in the mafia, Tsuna. Dangerous is part of the deal."

Finally, they visited the organization and management department. This part of the tour showcased the famiglia's daily operations, from financial oversight to logistical planning. Tsuna was surprised by the sheer complexity of it all.

"This is where the true backbone of the Vongola lies," Claudia explained. "While combat and strategy are vital, it's the careful coordination of resources and personnel that keeps us functioning."

Basil observed the charts and ledgers with interest. "It's almost like running a country," he remarked.

Raul snorted. "Yeah, but with more guns and explosions."

Tsuna couldn't help but laugh, though he marveled at how much work went into keeping the famiglia running.

As the group reconvened in the central courtyard, Claudia addressed them with a warm smile. "That concludes our tour of the Vongola branch. However, the day is not over yet. As is tradition, we will end with a grand famiglia banquet. This is a time for us to come together, celebrate, and share in the bonds that make us strong."

The students cheered, some already chatting about the food and festivities to come. Tsuna, meanwhile, felt a mix of anticipation and apprehension. A banquet sounded like a good way to end the day, but in a place like the Vongola, he couldn't help but wonder what surprises might lie ahead.