KHR: Decimo Primo

It had been a few months since Tsunayoshi Sawada was officially crowned as the leading candidate to become Vongola Decimo, bypassing even the three sons of Vongola Nono. The announcement sent ripples throughout the Mafia World, igniting a wave of controversy and confusion. Vongola, being the foremost organization in the underworld, carried immense influence, and the sudden appointment of a six-year-old boy to the position of successor drew significant skepticism.

Many higher-ups within the organization openly questioned the decision. Why appoint a child? And why now, so soon after the exile of Xanxus, another candidate who had attempted a coup alongside the Varia, of which he was the leader? The chaos caused by Xanxus's actions was still fresh, and the idea of appointing a successor so abruptly seemed hasty to some. Yet, Vongola Nono's authority and influence were undeniable. One by one, dissenting voices were silenced, and forced to accept the decision.

The Mafia families began investigating Tsuna's background with fervor. It didn't take long for the truth to emerge. Tsuna was the son of Iemitsu Sawada, the current head of CEDEF, a powerful figure in his own right. But what truly caught the attention of the Mafia World was the discovery of Tsuna's lineage—he was a direct descendant of Giotto, the First Vongola Boss. This revelation explained much and simultaneously raised new questions. How had a branch of the Vongola lineage gone unnoticed for generations? What did this mean for the future of the organization?

For Tsuna, the shift in his life was monumental. What had once been a low-profile existence as a regular student at Mafia school was now a whirlwind of attention, expectation, and scrutiny. The new title of Vongola Successor brought an overwhelming level of visibility. Students who had previously ignored Tsuna now vied for his attention, attempting to curry favor and make connections with the boy destined to become the leader of the underworld.

Thankfully, Reborn's presence acted as a powerful deterrent. The infamous hitman ensured that Tsuna wasn't overwhelmed by the sudden influx of opportunists. Additionally, Tsuna's growing Vongola Intuition proved to be a vital tool. With it, he developed the ability to sense lies and discern others' true intentions. While this newfound ability didn't make his life easier, it did allow Tsuna to maintain some semblance of normalcy in his daily routine at Mafia school.

Still, the change in atmosphere was undeniable. His core group of friends, who had always been by his side, reacted to the news with a mix of shock and disbelief. Basil, already privy to the truth due to his role as Iemitsu's disciple, took the revelation in stride, though he occasionally slipped up in his attempts to act nonchalant. For the others, however, the revelation was nothing short of mind-blowing.

Many of them had assumed Tsuna was simply the son of a high-ranking Vongola official, thanks to Basil's occasional slips. Learning that he was, in fact, the future leader of the underworld came as a surprise none of them had been prepared for.

Among the people who learned of Tsuna's status, the reactions varied greatly depending on their connection to him.

Dino, another of Reborn's disciples and someone who had come to consider Tsuna a little brother was one of the most enthusiastic. Upon hearing the news, Dino couldn't hide his excitement and pride. "Tsuna, this is amazing! I always knew you had it in you," he had exclaimed during their last meeting, ruffling Tsuna's hair fondly. Dino also offered advice, sharing his own experiences in leading the Cavallone Family. Though Dino often bumbled through his own leadership role, his earnest support and heartfelt words gave Tsuna strength.

Bianchi, whom Tsuna had met during his first mission, responded in her usual dramatic way. "I knew there was something special about you," she said with a knowing smirk. Bianchi had become an unlikely source of comfort during Tsuna's initial struggles, and her experience in the Mafia world gave her a unique perspective. She even offered to cook celebratory meals for him—though Tsuna had to politely (and nervously) decline, well aware of her infamous culinary skills.

On the home front, Tsuna's mother, Nana, remained blissfully unaware of the full truth. To her, Iemitsu was a hard-working salaryman who had successfully guided their son into achieving something remarkable. When she learned of Tsuna's "promotion" through a letter sent by Iemitsu, she had tears of joy in her eyes. "You've done something amazing, Tsu-kun! Your father must be so proud of you!" she had said, embracing him warmly. Tsuna felt a pang of guilt at that moment but couldn't bring himself to break her illusion. Her unwavering kindness and belief in him had always been his anchor, and he resolved to protect her from the harsh realities of the Mafia world for as long as possible.

Tsuna had also managed to keep in touch with his childhood friends from Namimori, Takeshi Yamamoto and Haru Miura. Takeshi, always the cheerful one, was quick to react with excitement when Tsuna finally confessed about his new "Mafia school." "That's so cool, Tsuna! It's like a special private school, right?" he said with a grin, as if Tsuna had just told him he was going to a prestigious academy. Takeshi laughed and added, "Maybe one day I'll come visit you there!" Tsuna couldn't help but chuckle at how casually Takeshi was taking it, his carefree attitude making Tsuna feel a little less worried about everything.

Haru's response was just as playful. When Tsuna explained about his new "role" as a Mafia successor, Haru's eyes lit up. "Tsu-kun, that sounds so awesome! You're going to be like the boss of everyone, huh?" she exclaimed, practically bouncing with energy. Her enthusiasm was contagious, and even though Tsuna tried to explain that it wasn't quite as fun as it sounded, Haru just kept going. "If you really are the boss, then maybe... could I be your wife and be the madonna of the underworld?" she asked with a giggle, her voice light and teasing. It wasn't clear if she understood what she was saying, but it made Tsuna laugh, and he brushed it off with a nervous smile.

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It was late October, and Tsuna sat with his friends in the common room of the Mafia school. The usual chatter filled the space, with students scattered around, some lounging while others caught up after finishing their long-term missions. Tsuna felt a little out of place—he had just wrapped up his own summer task, and now, as the school year was nearing its end, he couldn't help but wonder what came next. At normal schools, summer breaks were for relaxing and fun, but at Mafia school, things were different. The summer assignments were all long-term missions, each one meant to prepare them for their roles in the Mafia world.

"Hey, Tsuna, what do you think you'll do after summer break ends?" Naito asked, leaning in with his usual energetic grin. "Are you gonna take it easy before the second year starts, or do you have something crazy planned?"

Tsuna rubbed the back of his neck, a little unsure. "I... I guess I'm still figuring it out. It's been a lot to take in, honestly."

Basil, sitting next to him, chimed in with a soft laugh. "We've all done our tasks, so I guess today is more like a break for us. But I'm sure the second year is going to be even more intense than this."

"I'm just glad we made it through the summer assignments," Lunga added calmly, his usual stoic expression in place. "But we'll be second years soon, and that means new responsibilities."

Tsuna nodded the weight of the second-year expectations starting to settle in. He hadn't been able to escape the feeling that things would only get more challenging from here on out. The responsibilities, the missions, and everything about being a student here felt so different from his life back in Namimori.

"Yeah, second year... sounds intense," Tsuna said with a small sigh. "But I guess we'll have to handle it."

Raul, who was sitting a little further away, joined the conversation. "I'm just looking forward to what kind of missions we'll get. Hopefully, they'll be something exciting."

Tsuna smiled faintly. He liked how his classmates were eager and curious about what would come next, even though the reality of their futures was far from simple. He wasn't sure if he'd ever be able to adjust to the weight of being a Mafia successor, but for now, he found some comfort in the light-hearted chatter with his friends.

With the second year right around the corner, it was hard to tell what would happen next. But as long as he had his classmates around him, Tsuna felt a little less nervous about the future.

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It was a quiet afternoon at Mafia school as Tsuna and his friends made their way to the school gates, ready to head home after a long day of work. The weight of the summer's assignments still lingered in the back of his mind, but for now, it felt good to finally have a bit of a break. He walked alongside Basil, Naito, Lunga, and Pantera, chatting about nothing in particular as they made their way down the familiar path. Tsuna was looking forward to a peaceful evening, something to relax and take his mind off things.

"Man, that mission was so tiring," Tsuna groaned, stretching his arms. "I feel like I've been working non-stop. Do you think we'll actually get a proper break anytime soon?"

"You should be used to it by now, Tsuna," Naito laughed, nudging his shoulder. "You're a future boss. You have to be tough!"

"I guess..." Tsuna muttered, glancing at his friends. Despite their easy-going conversation, a part of him couldn't shake the feeling that something was off, like he was forgetting something important.

Suddenly, just as they were nearing the gates, Reborn appeared out of nowhere, his usual fedora tipped low over his eyes. His small figure popped out from behind a nearby pillar, startling Tsuna and causing him to jump.

"Tsuna!" Reborn called out, his tone brisk as always. "I need you to head home early today. We've got some special training ahead."

Tsuna's shoulders slumped as he groaned in annoyance. "Come on, Reborn! I just finished the school's mission. Can't I get a break for once?"

Reborn's expression didn't change. "No time for breaks. The training starts now."

Tsuna huffed but knew better than to argue. "I can't even have a quiet evening, huh?" he muttered under his breath as he waved goodbye to his friends, who shot him sympathetic glances.

What Tsuna didn't know, however, was that Reborn had been planning something special for him. While Tsuna was caught up in his usual frustrations, Reborn and a select few had been working behind the scenes to prepare a surprise celebration—a Vongola-style birthday celebration for Tsuna. Despite the chaos of Mafia school and the weight of his new responsibilities, today was meant to be a day of joy, something to remind Tsuna that he wasn't just a future boss but a person surrounded by family and friends who cared about him.

Basil, Naito, Pantera, Raul, and Lunga were all in on the surprise, each of them working together to ensure Tsuna had no idea what was coming. The fact that Tsuna had forgotten his own birthday only made it easier for them to pull off.

Behind the scenes, Reborn was also coordinating a big surprise for Tsuna: a trip to Italy for his friends and family, including Takeshi and Haru from Namimori, and Tsuna's mother, Nana. Reborn had arranged for their travel expenses to be covered, and with all of them coming together, it would be a celebration like no other. It would also be a chance for Tsuna's friends to meet his Vongola family, and for Tsuna to realize just how much he was truly supported by those around him.

Reborn had also invited Dino to the event, as well as Bianchi, who had always held a fondness for him. While Reborn appreciated Bianchi's admiration, he couldn't bring himself to entertain any feelings of his own. Despite his baby-like appearance, Reborn's mind and heart were those of a much older man, and he knew that his relationship with Bianchi could never go beyond the admiration of an idol. He felt it was just a passing fancy that would eventually fade, as childlike crushes often did.

Meanwhile, Reborn had tried to reach out to Hayato Bellini, or rather, Gokudera Hayato, as he now called himself. He had heard that Hayato had been training under Shammal after running away from his home, having learned about his status as a bastard. However, when Reborn tried to reach him, Hayato refused to talk to Tsuna for now. He had learned of Tsuna's new role as the Vongola successor, and his feelings about Tsuna had changed. No longer seeing Tsuna as someone to pay back for saving his life before, Hayato now aimed to be the kind of mafioso Tsuna would respect—a right-hand man to the future Vongola boss.

With everything in place, Reborn was ready. Tsuna's surprise birthday celebration was set to be the perfect reminder that, no matter how serious and difficult his path would become, there were still people who cared and wanted to celebrate him. It was a rare moment of peace, one Tsuna would soon discover—and one he would never forget.

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Tsuna grumbled as he trudged alongside Reborn, still feeling the slight frustration from being pulled away from his potential quiet evening. Training, he didn't mind. But after a long summer filled with missions and tasks, he honestly just wanted a break. The idea of more training felt like a never-ending cycle.

"You're so lazy, Tsuna!" Reborn scolded, walking briskly beside him, not showing the slightest bit of sympathy. "You're the Vongola successor now. You have to be ready at all times! A little training won't hurt you."

Tsuna sighed, rubbing the back of his neck. "I just finished a mission, Reborn! Can't I catch a break for once?" He cast a glance at the tiny figure beside him, who was acting as if Tsuna's complaints were some sort of challenge to be ignored.

"Rest is for the weak!" Reborn declared with a grin that Tsuna didn't fully buy. "You've got to be sharp. Who knows what's coming next? You'll need all the strength you can get."

They reached the grand entrance of the mansion, the familiar stone steps leading up to the large double doors. Tsuna had grown used to the mansion's luxurious, somewhat intimidating atmosphere ever since he and his father had moved here.

As they entered, Tsuna didn't even notice the subtle preparations going on around him. The usual greeting from the servants felt normal, just like any other day, as they opened the door and stepped inside. But then, just as Tsuna was about to remove his shoes, a sudden stream of brightly colored streamers exploded in front of him, showering him in a cascade of paper decorations.

"Wha—?" Tsuna blinked in surprise, his mind struggling to catch up with what had just happened. He barely had time to register what was going on before a chorus of voices erupted in unison.

"Happy Vongolian birthday, Tsuna!"

Tsuna froze, his eyes wide in shock as he slowly turned to face the source of the commotion. His parents, Iemitsu and Nana, were standing nearby, grinning widely. But it wasn't just them. Standing beside them were all his closest friends—Basil, Naito, Pantera, Lunga, Raul, and even Reborn, who seemed rather pleased with the surprise.

Tsuna's heart skipped a beat as he took in the scene. His family and friends were all there, gathered in celebration. The realization hit him like a wave.

"Wait, this… is for me?" Tsuna stammered, feeling his face flush red. He hadn't even realized it was his birthday, let alone his first birthday as the Vongola successor. Everything had been so overwhelming with the missions, his studies, and his responsibilities. It hadn't even crossed his mind that today would be different.

Iemitsu laughed heartily, clapping Tsuna on the back. "Surprised, huh? Reborn's been planning this for weeks! You didn't even remember your own birthday, kid."

Nana smiled warmly, her eyes full of love. "We're so proud of you, Tsuna. You've grown so much, and today is all about celebrating you."

Tsuna's gaze moved across the room, taking in the faces of his friends. They were all smiling at him, some with excitement and others with quiet affection. Naito gave him a thumbs-up, Basil offered a cheerful grin, and even Pantera, usually so reserved, had a small smile on her face. Lunga, as always, looked calm but approving.

Tsuna's heart was still racing as he stood there, surrounded by a whirlwind of streamers, decorations, and the faces of everyone he cared about. His parents, Iemitsu and Nana, were grinning widely, and his classmates and friends stood close by, all sharing the excitement of the surprise. But what truly threw him off was the presence of familiar faces he hadn't expected to see—Takeshi and Haru, along with their parents, had come all the way from Japan to celebrate with him.

"Tsu-kun!" Haru squealed, her eyes sparkling with excitement as she rushed over to hug him. "Happy birthday! You're so awesome, Tsuna! You're like a big boss in your school now, huh? With all the secret missions and stuff!" She giggled, clearly not fully understanding what Tsuna was really up to, but enjoying the game he was playing.

Takeshi, with his usual cheerful grin, followed Haru's lead, giving Tsuna a playful nudge. "Yeah, Tsuna! You're like the boss of your 'private school' or whatever! Do you have like a big chair and everything?" Takeshi laughed, completely convinced that Tsuna's Mafia school was just a fun, secret club for him to be in charge of.

Tsuna blinked, a little taken aback by how his friends were seeing things. "Uhh… yeah, I guess you could say that," he stammered, not sure how to explain it. He wasn't about to tell them all about the Mafia's true world, so he just smiled sheepishly and played along. "It's a bit like that, yeah…"

Haru bounced up and down with excitement, tugging on Tsuna's sleeve. "That's so cool, Tsu-kun! Do you get to wear a super fancy suit? And will you be the boss forever?"

Takeshi grinned, his hands on his hips like a little detective. "Ooo, maybe Tsuna will have secret missions, like a spy! You should totally take us on a mission sometime, Tsuna! Can we be in your secret club too?"

Tsuna felt his face warm up at the thought. "Well, uh, I'm not sure you'd want to join a secret club like mine…" he trailed off, unsure how to continue. "It's really busy, and, well, it's more about studying and being super strong than anything else…"

Their parents, who stood by watching the playful exchange, smiled at the kids' innocent chatter. Haru's mother, with a soft and caring expression, waved at Tsuna. "Don't worry, Tsuna, we know you're just playing a game, but it's nice to see you so happy!"

Takeshi's father chuckled, giving Tsuna a lighthearted thumbs-up. "Yeah, you're the big boss of your 'school,' right? Guess that means you get to call the shots and wear cool suits. You've got your hands full!"

Tsuna couldn't help but smile at their childlike perception of his life. His friends were so innocent about it all, and it made him feel strangely lighter, like for once he could forget about the heavy responsibilities of being the Vongola successor.

Meanwhile, standing a little off to the side, Bianchi gave Tsuna a knowing look. "Happy birthday, Tsuna," she said, her usual teasing tone softened by a hint of warmth. "Seems like you've got quite the crowd here, huh?"

Dino, standing next to her, gave Tsuna an encouraging nod. "Yeah, didn't expect this many people to come all the way out here for you. Pretty cool, huh?"

Tsuna, still a bit stunned by everything happening around him, turned back to his friends. Haru and Takeshi's excited chatter, their innocent questions about his life, filled him with warmth. He couldn't help but chuckle at their playfulness. They really thought his "Mafia school" was just a fun club for kids, a game he was playing. And honestly, maybe for a moment, he wished it could be just that—simple and carefree.

"Thanks, everyone," Tsuna said, his voice full of emotion as he looked at his parents, friends, and the people who had traveled from Japan just to be with him. "I can't believe you all came… this really is special."

"We wouldn't miss it for the world, Tsu-kun!" Haru exclaimed, jumping up and down. "It's your day! You get to be the big boss today!"

Takeshi grinned. "Yeah! You're the boss of everything today, Tsuna! Super cool!"

Tsuna felt a wave of happiness wash over him. His friends and family, his childhood companions, were here. Even though they didn't fully understand the weight of his role as the Vongola successor, it didn't matter. They were here to celebrate him, to share this moment of joy.

"Thank you, everyone," Tsuna said again, his voice thick with emotion. "I really don't know what to say."

Reborn stood beside him, his usual stoic expression softened just a bit. "Well, you might not have expected this, but it's your first birthday as the Vongola successor and your first year here in Italy, Tsuna," he said with a rare hint of affection. "And you've earned it."

Tsuna looked around at all the familiar faces—his friends, his family, his classmates—and for the first time in a long while, he felt like he truly belonged. Maybe his life had taken a turn he never expected, but in this moment, surrounded by the people who cared for him, he felt that everything would be okay.

"Thank you all," Tsuna whispered, his heart full. This birthday, surrounded by so much love, was more than he could have ever asked for.