Author Notes: After pondering about it, I decided to continue the story. It's one I believe needs to be told as no one else is going to do it so someone has to right? I think it has a load of potential and plus Solomon deserves it but don't expect the story too long. It'll probably be just long enough to close things up and potentially leave room for a sequel but that's it.

You may have guessed, the past is based off canon but its not entirely one hundred percent. For one as mentioned had to improvise, and two a bit of creative license while telling a story.

Solomon stood passively by three graves among the many others that lingered around the sobering scene before placing down a single flower on each grave. His parents, at the least, would have wanted him to visit when he could even if he didn't have the heart to come here as often.

What would be the point in the end? If they had been alive Solomon doubted he'd be able to look at them in the eye with pride.

Hesitantly, he went down on his knee's, closed his eyes and clasped his hands in prayer. It was almost a empty gesture at this point; it was merely something he did almost out of habit then actually believing God would heed his prayer.

"What are you doing?"

Solomon heard the voice of his brother, looking at him with contempt as he stood back up. "..I'm not sure anymore."

"Hm." Amshel said simply walking to the graves. "You were wasting your time as is. What has He done besides take from us? If they even exist."

Solomon had no answer but shook his head. "It doesn't matter anymore."

"Indeed. It doesn't," Amshel paused glancing at him. "There is one thing I've been thinking about for a long time little brother. At first I was unsure if my thoughts were correct but everything has all but confirmed it and more. If we want to protect what's ours, and we want to survive in this uncaring world, we must throw away these idiotic notions of morality that have held us back."

Solomon frowned, he didn't like where this was going. "Throw them away? What do you mean? That would make us no better then-"

"-Then what?" Amshel interrupted. "The people who have done nothing but take? The ones who like parasites fed on father's hard work and tears only to piss it away?" His face twisted into disgust. "They do nothing but take and then get ahead because of it. Even 'God' takes what they want and does as they will. It's time we did the same. The only morals we heed by are our own, Solomon."

"Charline, mother and father wouldn't want this." Solomon knew his brother had taken things hard but he had no idea it was this far.

It was the probably the first time Amshel showed visible anger. It wasn't common as his anger was cool like water most times then boiling when it got too much. His face twisted into a snarl. "Where has it gotten them!? Nothing! I will not wait and sit on my hands for something to happen and change, I will make it myself! If we had bothered studying science and medicine more then clapping our hands she'd still be alive!"

Amshel took a deep breath, backing up slightly, the tenseness of his body fading. "..I apologize, Solomon. I did not mean to loose my cool."

It took a moment before Solomon could think of a proper response. "It's all right. It's been a hard time for all of us."

"Something we agree on," Amshel said turning on his heel. "I will leave you but I request you come to talk to me later. I have someone I want you to meet by the name of Diva. And no, its not something as juvenile as your brother setting you on a date. Consider it a chance to escape these shackles of humanity of yours. Something I believe you'd be keen on."

Solomon wouldn't realize it would be the single biggest turning point in his life until it was too late.

Solomon woke up in his small room he was assigned to when the sunlight hit his face from the window.

The dream, or rather memories came flooding back to him even as he tried to push him back into the corner of his mind and forget about them. It was something he normally did as it made his job as a Chevalier of Diva easier whenever he had to do questionable things. But this time, he wouldn't push them back; for one he was no longer hers.

The second was he could not truly begin anew unless he analyzed how he got here in the first place, painful as it may be.

When Charline had died of Typhoid, the horrible illness had left them in utter agony, hallucinating before they were finally allowed to rest for good. It had been the first blow to the family, his faith as a former Roman Catholic and he now long suspected, Amshel's fall from sanity. Everyone handled it in different ways. For father it had work, their mother burying herself in other things while Amshel almost obsessively began studying science.

Solomon on the other hand had used the death to further boost his desire to help others to prevent them from suffering the same pain he and his family had. If he could save even a couple of lives, then in his mind it would have been worth it. He would have been a normal doctor, but his father had wanted him in the military. As a compromise, he trained to become a combat medic for a time just around the time the first World War had started.

That was when he saw the horrors of war for the first time. Even now, Solomon was convinced if there indeed was a hell it would have definitely looked like a war.

He remembered trying to soothe patients, patching them and desperately trying to keep the life blood flowing in their veins. Men, younger then himself, having missing limbs from both combat and others saving them from infections.

Even doing his absolute best, many died. Too many.

Solomon had came back from the war appalled of the depravity of what humans could do each other and his own weakness and powerlessness of being able to save those worthy of it. That was when Amshel came later with a offer, to change him to something else called a Chiropteran or Chevalier more accurately by a young woman named Diva. Being a chance to escape humanity's cruelty and senseless wars he had taken the plunge.

Solomon discovered too late wars and cruelty was a art Chiropeteran weren't new to as the two races have more in common on that end. The same senseless violence, power hunger and the like was alive within them but also the kindness; a trait with humans he had not only forgotten about but ironically he had continued his own senseless chain of violence.

Everything changed at that point. The powers that came with it aside, Solomon had felt free and different from before. No longer was he human and for that he had Diva's gratitude. It had been so easy to think humans beneath him in a way eventually after the change even as he began to morph to someone his parents and little sister would have been ashamed of.

Solomon could blame many of the darker things he had done under Diva simply a influence of being her Chevalier but that would be intellectually dishonest as he had responsibility in it as well.

Carl had been one of his first slips. Amshel had been convinced another Chevalier was needed and Solomon had reluctantly agreed to help. He could still remember their terrified face when they were forced to change, and in guilt thought to at least befriend them even as they began to lose their sanity. His death by Saya was, in his mind, partly also his fault.

Then there were more slips after that, each became a bit easier to ignore and push past before the stack of cards came crumbling down.

There was absolutely nothing he could do about the past or many regrets he had, but he could at least from this point on do his best not to repeat the mistakes. It was a small comfort but it was a start of building himself back up again.

"-Lord Othomont request your presence."

The voice was male but he didn't recognize it. "I'll be there in a moment."

What came after would be on his own terms.

Solomon was lead to a large dinning area by a maid before they excused themselves and went on their way. The table was lined up with different food of all sorts and set neatly in place on their plates though some of it didn't appeal to him personally.

A painful lesson had been learned that 'human' Chiropertan did, in fact, need food. Blood was something that sustained them like fuel but like a car they needed repairs from time to time which is what essence what normal food was. Amshel had discovered it himself and explained the rather..adverse effects of not eating for some time. He blamed Hollywood for putting stupid notions of immortal undead vampires in people's heads and anything living would need actual food. The last words Amshel had said on the subject in regards to that still echoed in his mind.

'Nothing lives forever little brother and no such thing as immortality not even for us. I've discovered our bodies do eventually expire even without unnatural death. We are just long lived as no living being is exempt from this natural law. Enjoy the time you do have for this world as uncaring as it may be.'

It was comforting in its own way. That meant while he would outlive some it wouldn't be forever.

Besides the one who had summoned him, two other people were present. Off to the opposite end of the table sitting that resembled Othomont a great deal, down to the clothes but one of the main differences was their age being at least a few years their senior.

Another man that looked notably more friendly with a slashed doublet, wide retcicella lace collar, cuffs and a broad-brimmed hat. The only one that seemed slightly out of place was a young blond boy roughly of Tiffania's age that wore a similar outfit(without the cuff's though thankfully). They sat by the first man, looking like they'd rather be somewhere else then here.

Still far better then himself, he supposed. Solomon's fashion which was good by modern standards probably made him look like some sort of exotic, strange foreigner that had just rolled out of bed.

"Welcome Solomon," Othomont greeted the Chevalier. "I wanted to introduce you to some of the others. The man here is my brother James, and his son the young Prince Wales. The other man is Leon de Sachsen-Gotha father of Matilda. He's also my viceroy."

What is with some of these long surnames? Something to ask about later, but greeted them in kind. "Pleasure to meet all of you, Solomon Goldsmith."

"That's a fine name," James appraised.. "Forgive my boy if he's too quite, he's been sulking as of late not able to spend time with Tiffania and Matilda. He should be focused on his duties rather then playing games."

Solomon didn't agree with that, but a more tactful with his reply as not to anger them. "I see. Still, he should be able to have some time of leisure and enjoy his time as a child shouldn't he?"

"They'll keep him back," Then James amended himself in front of the two men who were now paying full attention. "I mean what I say. They are lovely young girls but they are also a distraction. Wales gets all the leisure he needs. I'll be the one that decides should he get some leisure with them. The boy needs to learn a leader does what's needed, not what he desires."

It seemed he Solomon wasn't going to like this world's James either.

Leon frowned a bit before sighing. "You have always been difficult at times James."

"I merely speak the truth, no matter how uncomfortable."

A awkward silence descended into the room before Leon cleared his throat. "I believe its time we prayed to the Founder before we eat." Others clasped their hands in prayer and closed their eyes, save for Solomon while a reluctant young Wales did so as well.

While he didn't inherent Amshel's raw hatred against religion as a whole, Solomon merely didn't care for organized religion but he would tolerate it. For some it brought a sense of comfort, for others it helped them get through hard times so he had a live and let live policy on it; as long as they didn't force anything on him. Amshel had actually been rather devout in his faith once upon a time before going to the opposite extreme.

Besides, even if he did have his former faith fact remained this was entirely different religion. It had a bit more in common with Judaism and others who had a direct chosen people.

"So, I've heard you've gotten yourself in trouble with your wife," James started as Othomont paused in his eating. "She's been rather unreasonable as of late."

"I rather not talk about this," Othomont said sharply. "If we must, then away from Wales."

James took a discerning glance at his son before nodding. "Then we will. This is something that shouldn't be put off before it does become a problem." Othomont said nothing but stood up waiting for his brother to follow.

"I apologize. I will be back soon."

Solomon didn't doubt whatever would be discussed would be rather ugly.

Oddly, Wales seem to come a bit more to life once his father had left as if his presence had been weighing him down. "Where are you from sir Solomon?"

Solomon blinked at being addressed at the young boy then smiled. "Somewhere rather far away and distant, its called France. But just Solomon is fine." He didn't say because he wasn't old because frankly he was by human standards.

"Your clothing is rather unusual," Leon noted. "But it seems finely made, whatever it comes from. You've been keeping a eye on Tiffania and my daughter, for that you have my thanks."

Wales perked up from his seat. "You know them?"

"Not well yet but yes," Solomon decided the eggs needed to be handled first. "I'm Othomont's familiar but I'm Tiffania's bodyguard and also to keep her and Matilda company. Do you play with them a lot?"

"All the time!" The young prince said. "Matilda always has these really cool golems, but they can't really move much or anything yet," He slumped slightly in his chair. "..Or used to all the time."

Leon chuckled slightly. "Cheer up lad. I'm more then confident your father will have a come around."

"But..its boring," Wales protested, a frown forming. "I don't get why I have to do some of these things."

The older man gave a dramatic sigh. "Ah. You see young man, part of being a adult is doing things we don't want to do. As you grow older the list just keeps growing. Personally, I would rather be a youth," He wrinkled his nose. "Or not. It's hard to find a balance, I think. Wouldn't you say so too Solomon?"

"Certainly," Solomon said. "And that's why a child should be allowed to enjoy this time while they can."

Solomon honestly couldn't say he knew exactly the entire situation with James but to him, Wales should be allowed a bit more leisure if it wasn't excessive. Wales was the next in line so it was only natural that he prepared for the job but too much would cause him to burn out.

It's not a burden a child should have in the first place..

It wasn't as if he was a stranger to taking up responsibility at a very young age, but it was never as severe as this.

Leon took a small swig out of his glass. "I'll talk to your father about it. I'm sure I could at least get him to let me borrow you for a day," He winked at Wales. "Sword practice, books, and adventure! What's a few more between friends eh?"

Othomont came back, a disgruntled look on their face as they sat down without a single word. James had a cool mask but there was never the less tension between the two; more then there had been before hand.

From the corner, Leon seemed to wince about something. "Is everything all right?"

"It's fine." Othomont's tone was neutral but left no further invitation for interrogation.

"In a matter of speaking."

Whatever the talk about Othomont's wife had to be the cause of this. Solomon gave a bit slower chew o his food before swallowing. It's none of my business either way.

Leon cleared his throat. "I have a idea. Why not let the boy come to my home for the day? It would be a good learning experience for him and give him a much needed break."

Face shifting from mildly annoyed to pensive, they mulled it over before nodding curtly. "I see no reason not to allow it."

"Funny coincidence, I was thinking of having Tiffania visit as well."

James said nothing in response though Solomon noted his shoulders had tensed faintly. Why though?

To Solomon, it made no sense considering Tiffania would be considered his niece. Was there something he was missing? Perhaps he suspected something was amiss with the shy gentle girl?

He didn't know and he frankly liked it less.

Leon glanced between the two brothers, opening his mouth then closed it. "Promise me when you grow up Wales, you'll never become stuffy like us adults."

"I promise." Wales said after swallowing his food. "I can't wait to see Tiffania and Matilda! I have to show them something."

Othomont said nothing but seemed to be pleased while James was more just resigned. It was then Solomon noticed another strong, almost eerie likeness to his old life.

Two brothers with clashing views. Two brothers that may in the end may be unable to resolve the differences of their convictions which could lead to violence but obviously cared about each other to some degree. No Solomon corrected himself mentally. Amshel had stopped caring a long time ago.

Solomon typically liked animals more then people. Human or Chiropteran.

Too bad some animals didn't like him in return.

It was his first time being introduced to creatures known as Griffons, things that were all but myths reserved to fantasy writing and children books. Inwardly Solomon was intrigued about such animals and how they came about in the first place. Were they natural? Did they have a common ancestor?

Of course such questions would be useless to a world that didn't really have the scientific method developed; never mind the many other things so he kept it to himself.

The flying mounts had been startled at his presence while Leon had profusely apologized and Solomon had waved it off citing it was nothing to worry about. Solomon suspected animals with keener instincts could pick up the predator that lay within his human skin which is why they reacted the way they did, or at least some. Others got used to his presence while the other half were in a state of constant alert.

Wales had come naturally but not alone; a few guards were sent with him which he wasn't too happy with but had to make compromises to come in the first place. Tiffania was among the most reluctant to fly but she did with some coaxing. It didn't change the fact she had a death grip on Solomon the entire time despite all the precautions made for a safe flight.

Solomon couldn't blame her. Even if James had said this was normal apparently in their culture he couldn't imagine many children that age not being at least a bit scared.

Overall the flight didn't take too long and while Solomon was no stranger to flight with his true form having the ability, the novelty hadn't worn off. There was something about the way the air whipped against you, the hues of the clouds slowly passing by as you forgot you troubles just as engaging the first few times he flew.

The Sachsen territory wasn't too large was the first thing that Solomon noticed. There were homes of varying degree's of size which mostly held little interest him, but the biggest one in the distance that was rapidly approaching was a large mansion on top a hill. That had to be Leon's home just from a logical deduction of everything and it made sense for a viceroy to live in luxury.

Wales almost stumbled after getting off his mount with the help of James who gave a hearty laugh and patted his back. "Ease up lad. It's still something that time to get used to, don't force it."

"I don't like flying.." Wales features looked a bit paler then normal but it was regaining its standard color.

Solomon for his part got off without complaint or comment as he came over, the guards mostly being silent or talking among themselves. "So this is your home." It wasn't a question but a statement. Tiffania seemed more comfortable in Solomon's presence but gravitated towards Wales once they were on solid ground.

"She's quite beautiful isn't she? Not as beautiful as my wife of course," Leon rubbed his beard thoughtfully. "This wasn't our first home like this but the other was burned beyond repair during a brief civil war."

Solomon merely nodded, it made sense this place that seemed to be the sixteenth century or so had one of those. Even in modern days it happened.

Leon was the first to open the large doors of the residence to allow the others inside. It was basically what Solomon had expected; a more or less grand display of wealth. There was trinkets of different kinds laying about, painted pictures and a red carpet that lead to the entrance to the main room.

It split off from there, the left leading upstairs while each other side, north, west and so on lead to a hallway going to another part of the home. In the center was a rather large statue of a lion, a giant pearl in its gaping mouth.

Wales didn't seem to have much interest of the things within, while Tiffania hovered around a few objects of interest before gently being ushered along by Solomon.

"Hah!" Leon started seeing Tiffania having a interest of the things inside. "Now there's a young lady that will know about the finer things in life when she grows older."

"You sure you aren't saying that because its your home?" Solomon mused.

"Are you implying a large reason I say that because its my house?" Leon asked .

"More or less."

Leon gave yet another dramatic sigh. "Then alas, I'm afraid you would be absolutely correct."

Tiffania giggled slightly at the banter and Solomon's face twitched to a faint smile. Leon seemed like a good man, if eccentric in his own way. He was starting to suspect it was on purpose in some regards.

The older man's gaze turned to the two children. "But as exciting as some of my tales are, I'm sure you're here to see someone else. If you want to see Matilda, just go into the backyard where the garden is. Wales or Tiffania can show you Solomon. We can began our lessons again later prince."

Wales and Tiffana both perked up at this, the later taking Solomon's hand to drag him along which the Chevailar allowed without protest(he was more amused then anything). Wales went to follow but the guards did as well causing the young boy turn back to them, a bit confused.

"You don't have to follow me. It's safe here."

One of the armored guardians sighed. "I apologize young prince, but orders are orders. We would like you to spend time with your friends in peace but these are dangerous times right now. We won't be in the way more then needed."

"Okay." Wales frowned indicated a dislike but he went with it.

Politics. Solomon noted. Not something I was ever fond of even when I was a normal human.

Tiffania had lead Solomon in the back which was another garden that reminded him of the first one he had been in when he arrived. One of the main differences, was that it was fact larger and the second it had a huge water fountain in the middle and a array of statues made of bronze.

A lone male figure moved across the maze of the Sachen backyard, one of their targets was supposedly in the area according to their sources. Leon would have been a primed target but the man was too shrewd and powerful to take as easily so his daughter may do to get them off guard. Grief and anger tended to throw the best off guard.

It also tended to make them that much more dangerous. That didn't matter to them too much as long as he terminated the target, got his pay and got out of Albion as quickly as possible. He was not stupid enough to stay after kicking the sleeping dragon so to speak.

They paused in their search, looking at their ring which was unassuming in shape and size which was the point. Without it, he wouldn't have been able to sneak in like he did but disguises only worked for so long and if he was found out, he didn't want to worry about being captured. In reality he looked like a black cloaked figure, while the outside he would have been servant making their rounds.

With their strength, and the enhancement from First Born magic he was reasonably confident it would be a easy mark.

Though it wasn't so much for money as it was the thrill and challenge.

Ah. There's our little mice. It took all his willpower and training to suppress their grin. There she was, relaxed and apparently messing with some small golems. A waste of time in his opinion. What was the point of fighting if you could not feel your opponents bones break? Watch as their blood flowed freely from them? Perhaps he'd use his personal touch for Leon and Matilda's family and friends to leave but sadly he would be unable to see the reactions for himself. Another time perhaps.

They repressed their excitement, the same feeling he always got before he made contact with his prey soon to be dead and buried. He honestly could say he'd likely be this way even without his vampiric nature.

The stage set, the players in motion and the area clear, he moved silently for the kill.

Ending Notes: There wasn't much interaction with Solomon, Tiffania, Wales and Matilda but that'll change. For those who only have seen the FoZ anime, vampires do indeed exist in the Light Novels as do other things not shown there.

Anyway, I wanted to show while Amshel is still indeed a jerk the important part is what makes him how he is? That's always the question. What drives Solomon and what is his thought process of a man who feels guilt from following Amshel and doing things like forcing Karl to become Diva's Chevalier?

Manga Solomon..is a different story. I can't say I like them too much. Long story short, the aren't that likebale and is much more cruel and sadistic. The irony is the anime version was more gray and kinder dies, while the darker one lives. That's life for you.