A/N: After a ridiculous delay, this whole chapter is essentially a lemon, so please enjoy it! And if you're not into copious amounts of smut, well you're reading the wrong authoress….
Chapter 02: Unwilling Willingness
It had been three weeks since Zero's encounter with Kaname and he was in sheer agony of the worst kind. Zero's body physically ached with an unforgivable need and he whispered the cruelest swears imaginable to the darkness as he suffered, damning the creature that had reduced him to the detestable state he had fallen to. Just when I thought I couldn't fall any lower, Zero thought with a sneer before his body shuddered and interrupted all of his thoughts.
Zero was used to the almost paralyzing hunger, he had grown accustomed to the disgusting pangs that reduced him to a bloodthirsty monster, but this was entirely different and unwelcome. His whole existence burned with a singular desire and it was more disturbing to Zero than the lust for blood that had once been so detestable to him: Kaname.
Everything inside of Zero clamored for Kaname and he railed against it, although it was to no avail. His inner darkness that he loathed wanted to breathe in the pureblood's subtle scent, wanted to taste that delicious skin and indulge in that sacred crimson ambrosia, wanted to hear Kaname sigh in pleasure as he was ravished. It revolted Zero, but that didn't stop the burning need inside of him, nor did it make it any easier to get through the night.
Zero growled in aggravation as he tried to settle himself, but the painful ache still refused to go away. Nothing worked and Zero decided that he hated this more than anything else. It was humiliating and if he didn't know any better, he would have sworn that Kaname had done something intentionally to cause him to suffer such a fate. Who else would come up with a punishment like making someone think about them all the time other than the conceited pureblood? "Bastard!" Zero angrily swore in the empty room, repulsed by the fact that his voice came out as a strangled whimper instead of strongly defiant.
He hadn't been able to quit remembering the feeling of Kaname's lithe body moving against his own, hadn't been able to stop thinking about the heated kisses that brought a blush to Zero's cheeks even now, and he hated it. Zero raged against it, even as his body writhed under the influence of remembrance. He refused to relieve himself of the pent up sexual frustration, but Zero's resolve was weakening as wave after wave of persistent desire crashed into him, urging him to act on his shameful need.
Zero was assaulted by the memories of Kaname's luscious lips and lingering touches that progressed further in fantasy than they had ever dared to in reality. It was driving Zero to the point of madness and he was mortified by how far some of his imagined scenarios had gone. Somehow he had gone from reliving the moment to picturing extended sexual encounters and Zero had to fight against the stray images that were starting to make themselves known once more. Even though it was horrifying to think of Kaname on a sexual level, Zero couldn't stop himself from imagining the pureblood submitting to him in every way and enjoying it. The urge to dominate was strong and it was testing the limits of Zero's control every time he had seen the arrogant pureblood during class change over at dusk.
It would be cowardly to avoid his duties as prefect because he didn't want to see Kaname, but that didn't stop Zero from wishing he was anywhere but there every day. Kaname always looked so calm and self assured that it drove Zero crazy; he knew he couldn't be the only one affected by what had happened. He had clearly felt Kaname's arousal and even though Zero told himself it was disgusting, it didn't stop the nervous flutter in his stomach as he tried not to remember. They never said a word about it, but Zero swore when he saw that confident smirk that Kaname knew what he was doing to the ex-human and he despised the pureblood for it. Of course, it didn't help that Zero felt his body get warm whenever they made eye contact as his very existence cried out for Kaname.
To make things worse, the hunger for blood returned, but it was worse than ever. Before, Zero had merely wanted blood—it didn't matter from whom, he had simply thirsted for it until he was overcome by his vampiric nature. Now, Zero still wanted blood, but he only wanted Kaname's and that upset him on a whole different level. It was one more thing to hate, one more reason to curse his bane of existence.
Nothing had proved that more than when Yuuki had gotten a paper cut while they were studying together a week after he had fed from Kaname. The smell of it had immediately drawn Zero's attention, but it wasn't for the reason Yuuki assumed. As she shyly held her finger out to Zero, his eyebrows furrowed at his own reaction. Normally he felt the tightness in his chest as he fought against himself to not give in to the vampire inside of himself, but that feeling was strangely absent. That was the first time he realized that even though the sight and smell of Yuuki's blood made him thirsty, it was only because of her and not for her; it was a distinction that Zero didn't know how to handle.
Even as Zero's senses were assaulted by her sweetness, all he could remember was Kaname's exquisite taste and he politely declined her offer, even though the mere act disturbed him. Misunderstanding the reason for Zero's reluctance, Yuuki continued to insist, repeatedly reassuring him that it was okay. Only it wasn't okay, because it wasn't Kaname's and he didn't know how to verbalize it, let alone deal with that fact.
Yuuki looked crushed as she accepted his firm rejection and Zero embarrassed himself further when a strangled noise escaped from him as she slipped the finger into her mouth to clean herself of the blood. He was overwhelmed by the memory of Kaname doing the same thing and Zero had quickly left Yuuki in order to isolate himself, ignoring her pleas for an explanation. Zero hid in his room as the memory continued playing in his mind, hating himself for the weakness inside as it progressed into a full blown sexual fantasy that left him completely miserable and on the brink of release.
It was an insult to his pride and dignity as a man and it was for that reason that Zero had continued biding him time, trying to figure out something—anything—to get the upper hand in such a deplorable situation, even as the hunger ate away at him. Thus it was how he voluntarily ended up in the dungeon, awaiting the inevitable arrival of Kaname, in order to execute his plan.
Yes, it was rather underhanded of him, but Zero wanted answers more than anything else and he needed a situation where he could stay in control. He wanted to understand why he was craving that specific taste of Kaname and he wasn't going to accept an arrogant brush off like last time. No, Zero was going to have his answers at any cost—even though he knew that he probably wasn't going to like what Kaname had to say.
Zero had been in the dungeon for a little over an hour when he felt Kaname's aura descending in his direction. He used the remaining time to position himself, prominently displaying the chains that were intended to subdue a vampire's strength in order to lull Kaname into a false sense of protection. They were only partially closed and not locked, but Kaname wouldn't be able to notice it until too late; Zero wouldn't allow his plan to fall apart so easily.
Forcing his anger to the forefront of his mind, Zero could feel the bloodlust starting to creep into his eyes and flare out in his soul. That was how he allowed Kaname to find him, swallowing his pride over being 'caught' in such an embarrassing moment; Zero refused to let the darkness overpower him.
Kaname didn't say a word as he shut the door behind him and Zero growled low in his throat when the pureblood started to unbutton his black silk shirt while slowly approaching. He could feel the rush of warmth running through his veins as Kaname gradually bared himself to Zero's eyes and the hunter took a shuddering breath as the bloodlust took an even deeper hold on him.
"Kiryuu-kun," Kaname said evenly, although his tone was laced with reproach as he neared. "Must you continue to reduce yourself to this every time?"
Growling in response, Zero forced himself to say nothing as Kaname drew closer. He unknowingly licked his lips as Kaname finally bared his chest and removed his shirt, causing the pureblood to arch a delicate eyebrow. Zero continued to observe in silence as Kaname let the shirt drop to the floor and he had to clamp down on the rush of need that flooded his system. It was easy to allow himself to get distracted by the smooth expanse of Kaname's chest, by the way the sinuous muscles moved, by the elegant curve of the pureblood's pale neck, but Zero forced himself to focus. Thinking about how amazing Kaname's skin had felt against his fingertips was not conducive to his current goal.
"And I actually thought we had made progress last time," Kaname murmured, almost as if he were speaking to himself.
"Progress?" Zero hissed, unable to contain his reaction. "You call that fucking progress?"
Staring down at Zero with a calculating look, Kaname frowned imperceptibly at the sudden flash of lilac annoyance that had flickered in the hunter's eyes. It was an unexpected moment of clarity and Kaname was more intrigued by it than concerned. Kaname couldn't feel the feral bloodlust that normally had Zero lunging to satiate his thirst and it puzzled him. "Apparently not," Kaname stated sardonically, crossing his arms over his chest. "Although I'm starting to think that you like me finding you in this…position."
"Don't flatter yourself, you condescending bastard," Zero snapped, his voice echoing off of the stone walls as his chains rattled loudly. He couldn't hide the blush that colored his cheeks in embarrassment as his mind started supplying images for alternative meanings of "position."
Once again seeing the telltale violet glare amongst the violent crimson, Kaname had to ask, "Do you have something to tell me, Kiryuu-kun?"
"I have nothing to say to you," Zero snarled, even as he started to hear the first whispers of doubt that Kaname wasn't buying his act.
"I don't believe that," Kaname said with a slight smirk as he watched Zero's restrained reaction.
"You wouldn't," Zero muttered angrily, his hands tightening into fists.
Studying Zero for a moment, Kaname finally stated in a condescending tone, "You may not have anything to say to me, but I know you have questions. Or will you deny that as well?"
"As if you would answer them," Zero retorted, flinching away from the contact as Kaname reached down and gently stroked his cheek. He was too unstable to take such a risk; Zero would not allow himself to fall under Kaname's spell again. It pained him to show such weakness, but Zero knew it would cost him more to allow the touch; he didn't want Kaname to think that he accepted it, even if his body was screaming for more.
"Perhaps you are not asking the right questions, Kiryuu-kun," Kaname sensuously murmured as he gracefully lowered himself onto his knees in front of Zero.
The darkness inside of Zero was practically purring as the sight of Kaname on his knees and he involuntarily shuddered at the sight. "What's that supposed to mean?" Zero demanded, even as the tightness in his chest worsened.
"What do you think?" Kaname challenged, remaining just out of reach in order to observe Zero.
Realizing that the circular questions were delaying the inevitable, Zero mumbled, "Forget it," as he hung his head, hoping the submissive act would draw Kaname in closer.
"You would rather suffer than admit that I'm right," Kaname astutely observed, causing Zero to grit his teeth in irritation.
It infuriated the hunter that Kaname was devastatingly right; Zero knew that he should control his vampiric nature before he was reduced to a mindless monster, but he would never admit that to the pureblood. "Like you care about my suffering," Zero shot back before he had realized what he had said.
"Am I supposed to care?" Kaname asked in an arrogant tone as he moved closer to Zero. Bracing himself for the pain he knew would be coming, Kaname leaned forward so that his words sent shivers through Zero. "Do you want me to care, Kiryuu-kun?"
The sensuous way Kaname had lowered his voice effected Zero more than he would have expected; he could feel his inner darkness urging him forward, pleading with him to accept what was so willingly being offered. "I don't want anything from you," Zero denied, but the breathless tone of his voice was laced with a need that gave him away. He didn't want to lose control, not when he was so close to his goal, but Kaname's blood was so good and Zero was so hungry that it was getting harder to stay focused.
"Do you deny yourself of everything?" Kaname taunted, somewhat enjoying the struggle he was witnessing. It was oddly fascinating to see just how much of Zero's consciousness was still remaining even though it had been three weeks since the incident.
Using Kaname's momentary distraction to his benefit, Zero transferred one of the chains around his wrist to the pureblood's before knocking him back to the ground. He wasted no time in pinning the noble, one hand tightly closed around Kaname's throat as a threat of strangulation. "Not revenge," Zero replied, his anger spiking at Kaname's nonplussed expression.
"Is that what this is?" Kaname asked, gesturing with the enchanted handcuff, even as Zero secured the other one to the pureblood's other wrist.
Something warned Zero that it had almost been too easy; it was almost as if Kaname had allowed himself to be chained, but that couldn't be right. "Partially," Zero confirmed, satisfied that he had proper restraints on Kaname and his abilities. Zero struggled against the whispers that were hinting at other abilities, knowing that it would only cause problems if he thought about that while straddled over Kaname in a position of power. It was getting harder to think through his hunger and the extra exertion had only worsened his condition. The need was twisting him inside with pain, even as his nerves were alight over being so close to Kaname. Zero briefly considered tasting enough of Kaname's blood to take the edge off of the mindless desire, justifying it as clearing his mind in order to fully control the situation.
Deciding that it was a necessary precaution, Zero said nothing as he leaned forward and steadied himself over Kaname. His body was getting all sorts of ideas from the position that would embarrass him if they continued, so he sank his fangs into Kaname without warning.
Kaname's only reaction was to tense up before he forced himself to relax, once again surprised that Zero wasn't savagely ripping into him. The fact that the hunter had attempted to restrain him annoyed Kaname, but he couldn't help but begrudgingly admire the gumption of such an action, even as he was plotting retribution. He continued staring up at the stone ceiling with a blank expression, trying to ignore the soft sound of relief that escaped Zero as his thirst was slowly abated.
Zero could taste the bitter tang of Kaname's anger and while it helped relieve some of the crushing pressure from his hunger, it did nothing to satisfy his darkest needs. He stopped abruptly with a growl and leaned up to look at Kaname, feeling the sudden rush of powerful blood invading his system. "What was it?" Zero harshly demanded, his eyes glowing brightly in the dimness.
The faintest flecks of lilac were visible through the crimson bloodlust and Kaname was once again filled with the instinctual need to teach his prey a lesson. Although Zero was unaware of it, Kaname had also been suffering a similar need since the incident three weeks ago. He had tasted the hunter's passion and something in Kaname responded to it, wanting more. It was almost at the borderline of need, but Kaname's impeccable will prevented him from seeking out the teen; his own pride wasn't as accepting of the feelings toward Zero. It was humiliating for a pureblood to desire a Level D in such a manner, but that didn't stop him from reacting to Zero.
"Answer me!" Zero yelled, successfully returning Kaname's attention to him.
The order incensed Kaname, but the only outward indication of that was the quietest shifting of chains against the cold floor. "I told you before," Kaname replied, sounding almost bored by the proceedings. "Or is your memory that faulty?"
"You are in no position to deny me," Zero warned, his voice lowering dangerously in pitch as an unspoken threat. "Which emotion was it?"
Chuckling perversely at Zero's statement, Kaname's arrogance asserted itself as he stared defiantly at the enraged hunter above him. It caused Zero to waver for the briefest moment, but Kaname hadn't missed the telltale shudder it caused the teen as his inner demon started to stir at the alternative meanings. Kaname was smug as he asked the one question he knew Zero wouldn't want to answer, "Why?"
"I'm the one asking the damn questions!" Zero snapped, still trying to recover from his unintended innuendo and the resulting look it had earned him. He hated Kaname's aristocratic arrogance, but the pureblood's expression had been seductively sultry and it made Zero want to do unforgivable things to the noble. Zero recognized that the game was getting dangerous and he steeled his resolve not to give in to his inner vampire that was all too willing to start ravishing the prostrated pureblood.
"Why do you want to know?" Kaname continued, blatantly disregarding Zero's attempts at verbally asserting his control.
Zero's dignity wouldn't allow him to confess the truth, so he settled for his only other option, even if he humiliated himself in the process. He had promised himself that he would have his answers at any cost and he swallowed his pride before continuing.
Leaning forward once more, Zero languidly ran his tongue over the smeared blood he had left, noticing the steadying breath Kaname took to compose himself. Encouraged by the reaction and motivated by the memories of last time, Zero continued to lavish attention on the pureblood's neck, slowly losing his inhibitions in his desire for knowledge. Even the taste of Kaname's skin was divine and Zero resented the pureblood for it. Did he have to be so infuriatingly perfect in so many ways?
As Zero continued his unintentional teasing kisses, Kaname realized the hunter was going to have his answer sooner than the pureblood would have liked. Kaname knew that he could take control of the situation at any point, but there was almost a morbid curiosity about what Zero was intending to do to get his answers that kept him from taking immediate action.
It was finally too much for Zero and he once again gave into the urge that he would never be able to overcome. Puncturing Kaname's skin with a gentle bite, Zero could still taste the irritation, but there was the slightest hint of what he was after underneath of it. It made him sink his fangs even deeper into Kaname with an unintentional moan, causing the pureblood to shiver despite his self-control.
The way Zero was shifting on top of him was starting to get to Kaname and he decided it was time to get in control of the situation. Tilting his head slightly, Kaname antagonized, "You want to feel it again, don't you?"
Zero stilled at those words, his mind still hazy in the momentary indulgence of Kaname's blood. Despite his darkness that was urging him to sink in even deeper and ignore the deliberate bait, Zero removed his fangs from Kaname's neck in order to question, "What?"
The sensation of Zero pulling away caused Kaname to experience a feeling he was unfamiliar with; he had almost arched up as if to prevent the loss. It distracted him, but Kaname still had the wherewithal to challenge, "You can't forget about it, can you?"
Zero was frozen in shock, unable to immediately process Kaname's words and licking his lips to stall for time. He found himself incapable of replying and he thought his heart would stop when Kaname seductively murmured, "You want to feel me inside of you again." The words embarrassed Kaname, but he could smell the blush on Zero's cheek and it negated his own discomfort.
Kaname's assertion brought to mind all sorts of depraved fantasies that Zero had been suffering from during the last three weeks and he sat up in order to indignantly stare at the pureblood. "Ridiculous," Zero sneered, although his heart was pounding almost frantically from the emotions he was currently experiencing, making Kaname's blood course through him at a rapid rate.
"Is it?" Kaname questioned almost casually, noting that Zero's answer wasn't a direct denial. Smirking up at Zero, Kaname chose that moment to use his powers and disintegrate the enchanted cuffs that had been restraining him. In a single graceful movement, Kaname had reversed their positions and was now assessing Zero with a predatory gleam in his eyes.
For the first time during the encounter, Zero experienced fear as he realized what had just happened. "You look so surprised," Kaname taunted, subtly adjusting his position over Zero. "Something that weak would never be able to restrain someone as powerful as me. Surely a hunter such as yourself would know that, Kiryuu-kun."
Looking away in embarrassment at the rebuke, Zero burned with hatred that he himself could be completely paralyzed by the chains that Kaname had so easily destroyed. It was just one more reason for his pride to hurt and Zero cursed himself for the loss of control over the situation. Zero was completely at Kaname's mercy unless he could miraculously find a way to escape from the pureblood. He muffled a noise when Kaname leaned forward and Zero braced himself for whatever was coming next, unwilling to go down without a fight.
"Perhaps I should punish you?" Kaname contemplated as he traced the outline of Zero's ear with his tongue. It earned Kaname a shudder that pleased him immensely and he chuckled darkly in response. Three weeks had given Kaname a lot of reasons and ideas for punishing Zero, all of which had been deliciously tempting.
"Isn't this punishment enough?" Zero snapped, his hands tightening into fists under Kaname's grip. Few things could be worse than being completely at the pureblood's mercy, especially when that pureblood was Kuran Kaname.
"Oh, I don't think so," Kaname disagreed as he lightly nipped at Zero's ear, smirking when he heard the hunter's poorly muffled gasp. "Although it seems that you've been doing a fine job of it all on your own for these past three weeks…"
The comment confused Zero and it showed clearly on his face, amusing Kaname further. "It's almost admirable how long you've managed to hold out," Kaname complemented, although it was more of an insult to Zero. "Unfortunately for you, Kiryuu-kun, my patience has run out."
Kaname's words sent a cold streak of dread through Zero and his bravado faltered as he stuttered, "Wh-what is that supposed to mean?" Zero didn't know what specifically Kaname was referring to, but his every instinct was screaming warnings at him to get as far away as possible.
"I'm tired of waiting for you to come to your senses," Kaname clarified as he used his powers to bind Zero's wrists together and finally released his hold. It freed his hands to explore and Kaname traced the outline of Zero's tattoo with a tenderness that was a stark contrast to his words and attitude. "I may have the luxury of eternal life, but I will not waste it waiting for you to stop being so stubborn."
Zero's teeth were clenched tightly as he tried to ignore the sensation of Kaname's touch. It was torturous to endure in silence and stillness since Zero's entire body was trying to respond to the caress, but he persevered. Zero didn't want to let his body betray him by conveying something unspoken to the frustratingly perceptive pureblood, but it was a losing battle as Kaname's fingers languidly followed the crisscross pattern and made their way closer to the center of the design.
As irritating as Zero's stubbornness was, Kaname couldn't help but watch in fascination as the hunter continued his pointless struggle. Kaname could feel the way Zero's muscles were tensing under him, could easily see the tautness of the hunter's pale neck. It made something inside of Kaname want to antagonize Zero, even if the pureblood didn't completely understand the somewhat immature urge. It caused Kaname to replace his gentle touch with the light scrape of his nails against Zero's skin, making the teen shiver as a hiss escaped from him.
For the briefest moment, Zero's eyes fluttered shut as he tried to get control over his unexpected reaction to the slight pain that was far too pleasurable for what it was. Get it together! Zero mentally command himself, but it was too late as his tenuous grasp was shattered by the sensation of Kaname brushing against the area where he had been bitten all those years ago.
Zero was used to feeling intense amounts of pain whenever the charming spell of his tattoo activated, but he had never experience anything pleasant because of it. That all changed the instant Kaname stroked that spot and Zero was unable to stop the startled gasp of pleasure or prevent his body from arching upward because of the action. Violet eyes laced with scarlet hatred opened to glare accusingly at Kaname and Zero took a shuddering breath as he tried to suppress the sensations.
Kaname had been unprepared for Zero's reaction and the pureblood's eyes brightened in bloodlust at the unintended results. The part of Kaname that had spent the last three weeks contemplating Zero was overly pleased and he could feel himself starting to respond once again to the intriguing being pinned beneath him. "How curious," Kaname quietly commented to himself, surprised at the level of sensitivity.
Even though Zero wanted to order Kaname to let him go and stop touching him, the teen knew it was a lost cause and would only serve to humiliate him further. Instead, he managed to grind out, "Why?"
"That was a rather...unusual reaction," Kaname explained in a distant voice, still busy trying to solve the mystery. "Perhaps it is a side effect of the enchantment..."
"Meaning?" Zero irritably prompted once he realized that Kaname had no intention of finishing his previous thought.
"Its purpose is to contain your powers, your...urges," Kaname continued, unable to stop the slight smirk at his own innuendo.
Zero wasn't sure what pissed him off more, the vague academic explanation or the open display of perversion. "So?" Zero snapped, his patience at an end.
"It is merely a hypothesis," Kaname stated, before indulging himself once more in experimentation. Dragging his nails over the smooth expanse where the original bite mark would have been, Kaname was once again rewarded with a sensual display that he thoroughly enjoyed.
Zero cried out in unrestrained pleasure as his body writhed under Kaname's intense scarlet gaze, desperately trying not to feel aroused and failing. It was humiliating and Zero's cheeks burned with shame, even as his body trembled with a want that had been tormenting him for weeks. "Why are you doing this?" Zero demanded, hating the shaky sound of his voice.
"Why, indeed," Kaname murmured as he resumed tracing from the center out to the edge of the tattoo.
Zero squirmed under Kaname's attention, overly aware of how it made his hips move against the pureblood's. A strangled keen caught in Zero's throat when the sensations were reduced to the ghosting of touch and he had to clamp down on the unseemly urge to plead for respite. "We're finished here," Zero informed Kaname, needing to get away and regroup in order to come up with a better plan. Zero desperately needed to leave before he embarrassed himself further; he couldn't stand any more humiliation.
"Not yet," Kaname disagreed with a predatory smirk that sent a shiver through Zero. "Far from it, actually..."
Despite knowing his actions were futile, Zero started trying to break free of the invisible bonds that were keeping his hands pinned together and to the ground. "Like hell!" Zero spat, secretly afraid to find out what else Kaname had in store for him.
Ignoring the insolent disobedience, Kaname shifted his focus to the unmarred side of Zero's neck. He could feel Zero shiver in response to the methodical explorations, but there was no other reaction that could compare to the previous ones. Much like Zero had been spurred on by Kaname's reactions previously, the noble was also motivated by similar reasons. He wanted to see Zero lose his willful stubbornness, wanted to force the teen to submit to him. Kaname wasn't looking for complete obedience—he had that from the vampire aristocrats he was surrounded by—but the pureblood would have the respect he was owed.
When Kaname shifted his weight forward, Zero began thrashing in and attempt to escape, but it was a vain effort. He froze when he felt Kaname's breath on his neck and an involuntary whimper escaped from Zero as the vampire drew closer. It made Kaname smirk as he deliberately kissed Zero's fluttering pulse point on the unblemished side of his neck. Although, Kaname hated the taste of Zero's fear, the presence of his pheromones were almost enough to obliterate it. Chuckling darkly with smug satisfaction, Kaname couldn't resist the urge to taste Zero and the pureblood would not be denied.
When Zero felt Kaname drift to the mirrored spot on his neck, licking it as if in preparation, the teen was forced to say, "Don't." Zero's heart was hammering in fear of being bitten, terrified of what could possibly happen if Kaname decided to partake in his tainted blood.
Parroting Zero's earlier words back at him, Kaname warned, "You are not in any position to deny me, Kiryuu-kun."
Trying to rise above the panic that was threatening to overwhelm him, Zero growled as he tried desperately to think of a plan. He felt trapped in so many different ways and Zero hated it. Even though part of him acknowledged that Kaname technically had a right to retribution, Zero couldn't bear it; worse than that was the side of him that was crying out for more.
When Zero said nothing else, Kaname took the opportunity to switch sides. As he had with his fingers, Kaname started on the outer edge of the intricate design, kissing it before tracing the line with his tongue. He could taste the repressed power and feel the tingle of the underlying spell; for a brief moment, Kaname wondered how powerful Zero would be without the restraint. It was a moot point considering Zero would have descended to a level E without the mark, but some part of Kaname was deeply curious about the untapped potential of strength.
"No," Zero weakly protested, even as his body arched closer to Kaname's in search of more contact. It was too much to handle and Zero found himself succumbing to the feelings as his darker side took hold, his eyes flashing brightly when Kaname lapped at the sensitive center.
Kaname paused long enough to comment, "So stubborn," before resuming his torture. He didn't give Zero the chance to recover and Kaname mercilessly continued, lightly suckling the place where the bite mark should have been.
Zero could scarcely remember to breathe and could only moan loudly in pleasure as the feeling shot through him. He had never experienced such intense bliss before and Zero would have been mortified if he still had the capacity to focus on anything else other than the sensations caused by Kaname's lips and skilled tongue. He was so distracted that he barely heard Kaname question, "Did you really think that I couldn't hear you calling out to me?"
"Huh?" was all Zero managed to respond with, panting heavily as he fought through the haze that had overtaken him. Things were getting dangerously close to out of control and Zero cursed himself for allowing the pureblood to get the better of him yet again. It just felt so devastatingly good that it was almost impossible to resist the whispers of, "Finally," as he was brought closer to what he had been needing the past few weeks.
Pausing in order to allow Zero to focus, Kaname continued, "It was...distracting. Constantly hearing your soul pleading for me and yet you were always so quick to deny yourself."
The words had a sobering effect on Zero and for the briefest moment, he wondered if the pureblood really knew such a thing. It was quickly dismissed, but Zero was still shaken by the possibility that Kaname had been able to sense his unforgivable longing. "You're so full of shit," Zero sneered, doing his best to seem unaffected by the situation even as he yearned for more than he would ever be comfortable accepting.
Once again ignoring the insult, Kaname slipped his hand under Zero's shirt, noticing how the muscles were already quivering in anticipation. "You have thought of nothing else," Kaname knowingly commented, having been caught in a similar predicament himself.
"What would you know about?" Zero snapped, trying to inch away from the touch with his limited range of motion.
"Everything," Kaname answered, leaning forward as if to kiss Zero.
Some remote part of Zero's mind wondered what exactly Kaname meant by that, but he was too focused on the immediate issue to think further on the matter. Instead, Zero took the opportunity to do the only thing he could think of to prevent Kaname from doing as he pleased: he lunged for the pureblood's throat and viciously pierced him with his fangs.
Kaname let out a soft groan in his shock and immediately regretted it. Zero moaned his appreciation as he continued to feed and Kaname once again felt like swearing due to his own oversights as he supported himself on a trembling arm.
The flavor was even better than Zero had remembered and it slowed his greedy thirst so that he could savor it. He felt almost heady in his ecstasy as he let the liquid warmth wash over him, the rush of power paling in comparison. It was divine in a way that should be forbidden in such a sinful creature and Zero needed more of it.
The soft sounds of satisfaction coming from Zero were wearing on Kaname and he was torn between ravishing the hunter or severely punishing him for the egregious insult to his person. He was angered by the shift of control and he tweaked one of Zero's nipples in an attempt to dissuade the hunter from continuing.
It worked and Zero released Kaname with a discontented growl, but continued licking the area clean, unwilling to waste a single drop. Zero was overly aware of the heat coursing through his veins, making his entire body feel hypersensitive as Kaname's essence made its way through his system.
Removing his hand from under Zero's shirt, Kaname forced the teen away from his neck and back to the floor. Zero glared his disapproval at the vampire as he sarcastically demanded, "Isn't that why you're here?"
Instead of dignifying the question with a verbal response, Kaname answered by kissing Zero before the teen could protest. It was a brutal battle for dominance and neither one was willing to relent. However, the longer they continued, the more caught up they became.
Zero's senses were completely captivated by Kaname and he was too far gone to resent it. Just like last time, it still wasn't enough and Zero wanted more; only now it was worse since there were three weeks of tormenting thoughts making it a more pressing need. The immediate strength of Kaname's blood allowed Zero to dissolve the invisible restraints keeping his hands pinned to the ground and he took advantage of the freedom.
Much to Zero's surprise, his hands instinctively sought out the pureblood—not to assault or stop him, but to pull Kaname closer. One hand found purchase on Kaname's hip, while the other was placed on the back of the pureblood's neck in order to deepen the passionate kiss.
Despite Kaname's previous reservations, he was also losing himself in Zero's eagerness. The feeling of Zero's wandering hand along his spine sent chills through Kaname and he started grinding his hips against the hunter's obvious arousal. Kaname had thought of little else during the past few weeks other than the depraved ways he could corrupt Zero and now was the perfect opportunity. Down in the dungeon, no one would interrupt or disturb them, no matter how loud they got. There were no prying eyes, no nobles to judge, no humans to keep a front up for; there was only Zero and Kaname intended to go further.
Wasting no more time, Kaname started to strip Zero of his shirt, forgoing subtly in favor of a fervent need. Zero made an aggressive protesting sound, but did nothing to prevent Kaname from accomplishing his task, nor did the teen let it distract him.
The rational part of Zero's mind had completely stopped working as his inner demon took over. Zero could feel Kaname inside of his veins, above him against his skin, in the very air that he breathed, but it still wasn't enough. His fingers were once again mapping out invisible paths along Kaname's back, marveling at the sculpted perfection. Zero's body was demanding things seen in his darkest dreams, but he couldn't bring himself to say a single word to make it happen. Instead, Zero continued meeting Kaname's rhythm in the hopes that it would encourage more. Even in his altered state, Zero knew he wouldn't last another three weeks of torturous solitude after another heated encounter.
Kaname was slightly taken aback when Zero started fumbling with his belt in an effort to speed things up a little. He discouraged it by pushing aside the hands and Kaname couldn't hold back a gasp when Zero firmly groped his ass. It made Kaname buck hard into Zero and he scowled at the hunter's look of glee.
Even though Zero's hands still remained on his ass, Kaname had to ask, "Do you understand?"
Zero merely groped Kaname again, this time rocking his hips against the pureblood's. Kaname bit back an irritated growl as he tersely said, "Kiryuu-kun."
Leaning up and capturing Kaname's earlobe in his mouth, Zero suckled on it before piercing it with one of his fangs and enjoying the small burst of flavor even as he shallow wound was already healing. The undercurrent of spice was getting even stronger and Zero's eyes closed momentarily before he released it long enough to murmur, "Kuran," in a husky tone that made the lust in Kaname's fiery gaze brighten.
"Zero," Kaname tried, remembering how that had gotten his attention previously, despite being under the influence of powerful pureblood pheromones.
"Ka-na-me," Zero drawled in return, emphasizing the syllables with a knowing smirk before stealing a kiss. Zero sucked on Kaname's lower lip before allowing one of his fangs to scrape against it enough to draw blood. He felt almost drunk off of the power and the heavily laced hormones only served to further cloud Zero's mind and desires.
Nipping at Zero's lip in warning, but not hard enough to draw blood, Kaname ordered, "Zero, look at me." A lilac edge rimmed the flashing crimson and it was enough to let Kaname know that Zero hadn't completely given himself over yet. Kaname didn't want to take advantage of Zero since such things were beneath him, but he needed to know. "Do you understand?"
The violet disappeared quickly as Zero vulgarly retorted, "That you want to fuck me?" The stunned look on Kaname's face was priceless and Zero laughed cruelly, even as his innocent side was blushing fiercely on the inside unseen.
Assuming that the cocky brashness was an aftereffect of the blood rush, Kaname quickly recovered. Firmly cupping Zero's arousal through his pants, Kaname made his intensions clear as he rubbed against it. "I will not have you making accusations out of regret," Kaname warned, his eyes narrowing at the possibility.
The brightness dimmed slightly in Zero's eyes as he scoffed, "Regret," in disgust. "The only thing I regret is having met you and discovering that."
"Discovering that you need me, that you want me," Kaname corrected as he stroked Zero's hard length for emphasis.
"You wish," Zero said sarcastically, refusing to confirm what they both knew to be true. He needed Kaname to prevent him from falling further from grace, wanted the vampire to make him feel that way again because of his blood. Zero would never admit to it aloud, but he knew he needed it and wanted so much more. "If anyone is going to regret this, it would be you. Surely dirtying yourself with a Level D is beneath a pureblood such as yourself."
The self-deprecating slur caused Kaname to pause and he frowned in disapproval. "You are many things, but dirty is not one of them," Kaname stated with quiet conviction, not completely sure why the comment bothered him as much as it did.
Snorting at the pureblood's words, Zero facetiously retorted, "Whatever you have to tell yourself to make it okay, Kaname-sama."
"That is not necessary," Kaname said, a note of irritation creeping into his tone as he moved his hand away. "Do not make the mistake in thinking that others perceive you with the same negativity you do yourself."
Blinking rapidly in disbelief, Zero couldn't process that Kaname was essentially taking his side on the matter. "Oh, please," Zero spat, his face flushing both in his embarrassment and his rage, feeling foolish for even daring to think for a moment that Kaname truly believed otherwise. "I'm an ex-human that is—"
Interrupting Zero in order to curtail the conversation, Kaname said, "It is not your fault, nor does that make you filthy in any way."
"I'm still inferior, still tainted," Zero continued to argue. "Isn't that right?"
"No," Kaname denied, narrowing his eyes in irritation.
"Whatever," Zero muttered as he looked away, unwilling to pursue the matter any further. His mind was too muddled from anger and hormones to truly care; besides, he had better things to do than get insulted by a prissy pureblood. Zero's body burned with a need for more contact and he felt as if he'd go mad without it; everything else became secondary as his inner demon demanded satiation.
Figuring that actions would convey things that words would never manage, Kaname initiated an aggressive kiss that gave them both an outlet for their pent up emotions. It gradually became less frenzied, but it was still intense as they battled, the previous argument forgotten.
When Zero's hands once again sought out Kaname's body, it allowed the vampire to forgo some of his concerns. Kaname rewarded Zero by nicking his tongue on one of the hunter's fangs. It slowed down their pace as Zero savored the taste, his eyes closed in ecstasy as the intoxicating crimson liquid washed over him. Everything became Kaname and all else was inconsequential for Zero; even the part of his mind that had reservations was dormant.
Eventually Kaname pulled away, smirking at the poorly muffled noise of protest and the way it made Zero's grasp on him tighten ever so slightly. Kaname indulged himself with trailing kisses that mapped out Zero's body, leaving his fingers to wander freely. He never would have dreamt that an ex-human could taste so sweet, could feel so good, but Zero did and Kaname wasn't objecting; it was too late for that, the pureblood was already too ensnared. It lead Kaname to murmur, "There is nothing to regret, other than perhaps the three week delay," before trailing his tongue along the ridge of Zero's hipbone.
Zero tensed at the assertion, his eyes open wide in shock, too distracted by the words to notice how he shivered from Kaname's worshipping of his hips. He barely managed to mumble an incoherent, "What…?"
Chuckling at the response, Kaname chose not to expound upon his comment and instead switched to Zero's other hip to mirror his previous ministrations. When Zero attempted to ask another question, Kaname suckled hard enough to interrupt the hunter's thought and to make a small hickey. He instinctually inhaled deeply, scenting the merging of his blood and Zero's, growing harder at the thought. A twisted part of himself wanted to try it, to know what Zero truly tasted like, but Kaname resisted the urge, unwilling to deal with the consequences. The temptation was quickly abolished when the small mark healed quickly as a result of the powerful pure blood coursing through his system and Kaname had to stop himself from making another mark.
Zero wanted an answer to his unfinished question, but Kaname continued to distract him through the most effective means. He offered no resistance as Kaname deliberately undid his belt, knowing that it was probably his last chance to back out of the situation. Even though the core of his human existence knew he should object, should run while he still had the opportunity, Zero remained silent except for his ragged breathing as Kaname rid him of his pants, leaving the hunter completely naked before the pureblood's eyes.
It was nerve wracking on many levels to have a pureblood looking at him stripped bare, but Kaname's eyes were bright with a lustful appreciation, rather than darkened with disgust. Zero was too worked up to question the difference and he had to fight the impulse to cover himself somehow.
Kaname appraised the slender being before him and wondered how Zero could ever mistake his purity for tainted. Even in the dim dungeon lighting, Kaname found Zero's paleness a thing of beauty and he licked his lips in anticipation, eager to move on to other things.
Just as Zero was about to bark at Kaname to stop looking, the pureblood ran one of his hands along the hunter's leg as he returned for another kiss. Zero made a startled noise when Kaname's teasing touch reached the inside of his thigh and he shifted uneasily as slim fingers drifted further. Sensing Zero's discomfort, Kaname relinquished the position temporarily and brought his hand back up to safer territory.
Emboldened by his more daring inner darkness, Zero's hands began to tentatively explore Kaname's shoulders and chest before awkwardly continuing their downward path. Although his earlier attempt to undo Kaname's belt had been thwarted, this time he met no resistance. The button gave Zero some amount of difficulty and only then did Kaname push away the fumbling hands in order to take care of it himself.
When Kaname stood up, Zero had a fleeting moment of panic when he thought the pureblood was going to leave him in such a riled up state. He was immediately mortified by his own reaction, but that didn't prevent him from enjoying the sight of Kaname sliding his pants and underwear off in a sensual display that Zero suspect was an intentional show. When the pants dropped to the floor, Zero swallowed hard at the image of the impossibly perfect pureblood's figure and the irrefutable evidence of arousal that he was responsible for somehow. It sent a flutter of nervousness through him and a brief moment of doubt, but Zero wasn't given time to think about it.
Kaname kicked aside his pants before rejoining Zero, pressing the full length of his body along the hunter's. They both reacted vocally at the contact, everything coming to a halt as they accustomed themselves to the sensation. It was far better than the thoughts that had tormented him for the past several weeks and Zero's body undulated as Kaname's fingers left blazing lines of lust in their wake.
Zero felt awkward just lying there as Kaname proceeded with his preparation, drifting ever lower as he moved. He was curious about whether their current activities would make a difference in Kaname's taste and Zero tilted his head to the side in order to access the one part of the pureblood that was close enough to.
Kaname paused when he felt Zero's lips on his wrist and he arched an eyebrow when he received another shallow wound for the purposes of a sample. Zero's eyes once again closed in bliss as he basked in his embarrassing addiction, the rich sweetness coating his tongue and making him feel whole in an almost disturbing way.
Allowing Zero to do as he pleased, Kaname ignored the soft swipes of the hunter's tongue, even if it was mildly distracting. He took advantage of Zero's momentary infatuation and lightly fondled the hunter's erection. Kaname winced when Zero's fangs clamped down on his wrist to muffle a moan, but the pureblood didn't stop. Instead, Kaname picked up the pace, stroking Zero with more resolve and thoroughly enjoying the way it made the teen react.
Zero's breathing was becoming more labored and he panted as he tried to stay in control of his desires. Soft growls and whimpers kept escaping from his unwitting lips and they pleased Kaname immensely. Kaname inhaled deeply, the smell of Zero's pheromones and musk affecting him on a primal level as it was forever imprinted on his mind.
Deciding that they were isolated enough that there would be no repercussions, Kaname once again released his hold on his own pheromones and Zero's nails extended into claws to dig into the pureblood's back as he sensuously moaned, interrupting the process.
Zero didn't understand his own reaction, but he suddenly was gasping for breath as Kaname invaded his every sense—not for lack of air, but to take in as much of the pureblood as possible. Kaname's name was on Zero's lips and for once it was obscene because of the perverse feelings attached rather than a curse of damnation. The scent of blood lingered in the air and Zero deliberately drew his nails up Kaname's back, reveling in the fresh tang that assailed his nose. He brought his fingers to his mouth and was sucking off the precious liquid when Kaname brushed against his entrance.
Another flash of doubt hit Zero as he tensed, unfamiliar with the feelings it stirred in him. As one of Kaname's fingers penetrated him, a sound of discomfort got caught in his throat, even as Zero licked his own clean of the last remnants of blood. He shifted uncomfortably, looking down at Kaname with an uncertain question in his eyes.
Kissing Zero's thigh in reassurance, Kaname started slowly stretching the hunter with a patience he possessed only through years of cultivation and training. It was too rough and too raw, so Kaname sliced his own finger to use his blood to provide some level of lubrication. Even though he knew that Zero would heal from any injury almost instantly due to the amount of Kaname's blood he had already ingested, the vampire still wasn't willing to go that far.
It was an unpleasant feeling and Zero dug his claws into the ground to hold back the sound of pain that wanted to escape from him. He refused to show weakness in front of Kaname, but it hurt enough to cut through the hazy pleasure that was clouding his senses. Almost as if sensing it, Kaname surrendered the rest of his hold over his pheromones while applying pressure to the one part of Zero he knew would undo him.
It worked and Zero arched up off of the ground with a loud shout of surprised pleasure. The pain was forgotten about as Kaname continued rubbing that one spot and Zero shuddered with a gasp, his lavender eyes wide with shock. Kaname's lips quirked upward and he continued pumping his fingers in and out of Zero, pleased when he felt the hunter starting to relax and push against him.
When Kaname finally decided it was enough, he removed his fingers and swiftly positioned himself above Zero. He made sure that his member was sufficiently coated before starting to push into Zero, groaning at the tight heat that instantly surrounded him. Zero hissed as the pain returned, his head banging against the ground as he tried to endure it. He growled, "Kuran," through gritted teeth and flashed his fangs in warning, desperately trying to adjust to the stretching sensation.
Kaname felt something that could almost be mistaken for guilt over causing Zero to suffer, but it was quickly pushed aside for the confidence in knowing that he could quickly make the teen feel better. Not allowing the concern to slow down his movements, Kaname adjusted their position as he tried to stroke Zero's most sensitive area. It took several attempts, but Kaname finally found it and he was not disappointed with the results.
Zero was reduced to wordless moans and gasps as Kaname continued thrusting into him, his pace increasing with his success. Hands that had formerly been clawing at the ground once again sought out Kaname and Zero writhed in shameless pleasure. It was above and beyond anything he had ever imagined over the past few weeks and he was unaware of the pleas for more that escaped from him, gratifying Kaname's pride even as he gave Zero exactly what he wanted.
Few words were exchanged between the two and the dungeon was filled with the sounds of their coupling, echoing in a way that merely spurred them on even more. The way Zero tossed his head back, bearing his neck to Kaname's eyes, was too tempting for the pureblood. He seemed unnaturally drawn to the tattoo on Zero's neck and Kaname kissed the base of the design, not minding the sharp gasp and the dig of claws in his back. Kaname could almost feel the mark sparking at the intensity of emotions and power flowing through Zero, but the pureblood was too engrossed in the hunter to dedicate any coherent thoughts to such things.
Loving the reactions it earned him, Kaname licked his way to the center of the design as he continued thrusting hard into Zero. The hunter was nearly mindless with ecstasy and Zero could only swear in a shaky voice when Kaname reached the sensitive center. It was almost too much for Zero, especially when Kaname started to stroke his member in tandem to the flicks of his tongue, all dictated by the powerful rhythm of the pureblood's hips.
Zero's legs wrapped around Kaname's waist and it only served to drive the pureblood deeper. His fingers entangled in silken brunette hair as Zero fully embraced the vampire, incapable of feeling embarrassed in that moment at how he was clinging to Kaname. It felt good, almost too good and Zero realized he was approaching his climax far too quickly; he wasn't ready for the mind blowing experience to end just yet.
Kaname was equally enthralled with partaking in Zero and he had to pull himself away from the tempting flesh that was making his fangs ache with the need to burry themselves deeply in the hunter, as deeply as he was currently sheathed elsewhere. Although it had been years since he had last been so unrestrained, Kaname had to keep control over his basest instincts and he captured Zero's lips for a hungry kiss to curb the urge. Kaname was unsurprised by Zero drawing blood and the hunter shuddered as the taste of lust stoked his own fire. The ever-changing flavor was exquisite and Zero wasn't sure if he could handle much more.
Realizing that he wasn't going to be able to hold out for much longer, Kaname started stroking Zero wit more vigor to ensure that the hunter came first. Zero's moans reached a fevered pitch and he came hard with a wordless shout, his muscles clenching in a way that was encouraging Kaname to join him.
Even though he knew he shouldn't tempt himself, Kaname lightly scratched Zero's skin in the center of the design with a single claw, the sweet scent of blood making him shiver and lick his lips as he held back a groan of need. The hormonally laced blood that was mixed with his own was calling to Kaname, but he resisted the instinctual urge to lap up the tiny beads of crimson lust, even though it was be so easy to just give in to his desires.
Kaname was so distracted by temptation that he was caught off guard when Zero pulled him closer. Even though Zero's body had finally been satisfied, he had to know what Kaname would taste like at the heights of his pleasure. He slowly sank his fangs into Kaname's beautifully pale neck, falling deeper into his addiction as he let it overtake him completely in his afterglow.
The sensation combined with the seductive aroma of their mixed essence succeeded in drawing Kaname's orgasm from him and he came with a low moan of satisfaction. He rested for a few moments, but he finally had to stop Zero from partaking in any more of his blood. Although Kaname would never admit it, he was starting to feel a bit light headed from the blood loss and exertion.
Even though he could have happily remained sheathed in Zero, Kaname pulled out and it caused the hunter to withdraw his fangs as he groaned in protest. As the bloodlust calmed and Zero's seed cooled between them, neither of them said a word. Zero wasn't even really sure what words could be said and he sighed quietly as he tried to settle himself and all of the feelings that were still surging through his veins. Likewise, Kaname wasn't sure what to do next and he uncharacteristically hesitated as he debated his options.
Finally, Kaname asked in a quiet voice, "Do you understand now?"
Rolling his eyes at the pureblood, Zero retorted, "You could have just said, 'lust,' you know."
The slightest flush of color tinted Kaname's cheeks and Zero was fascinated by the sight, going so far as to reach up and feel the heat. It only served to embarrass Kaname further, but he made no move to push the hand away. "You would not have accepted it," Kaname defended himself.
Letting his hand fall away to the ground, Zero muttered, "Hell of an explanation, Kuran."
The faintest hint of a smile lingered on Kaname's lips before it twisted into a small smirk. "At least it seems you listened this time," Kaname countered as he moved away from Zero to stand.
"Whatever, you are so full of yourself," Zero commented as he shook his head, somewhat surprised when Kaname offered him a hand to help him up from the ground. Hesitating briefly before accepting the help, Zero let the pureblood support his weight as he raised himself up on shaky legs.
For a moment their hands remained entwined together, but they parted shyly in order to redress. Zero scowled at the mess on his stomach and he was stunned when Kaname held out a handkerchief to him. Taking it with a mumbled word of gratitude, Zero wiped himself clean before putting on his clothes. Even though he found it distasteful, Zero pocketed the sullied cloth rather than immediately returning it to Kaname.
It felt like there was something else that needed to be said, but neither of them knew what that was. There were too many things that needed processed first, so they left it at that, separately enjoying the momentary relief that their joining had created as they went their own ways to their dorms.
A/N: I'm convinced that I am incapable of doing just a straight up lemon; there always ends up being some cerebral element to it…
First off, I have to thank everyone for their overwhelming support and kind words in your reviews! Considering this was my first foray into this fandom, I was genuinely stunned at how well received this fic was! I deeply appreciate it and I know that there are still some of you out there that I owe responses to and I promise that they are coming, however late they may be.
For those of you that don't follow my Yu-Gi-Oh! based fics, an explanation of my absence is in order:
I came down with a really bad upper respiratory infection and almost ended up hospitalized over it because I kept pushing myself too hard, in true me fashion. The first round of treatment actually made me worse and then I had an adverse reaction to the second round of treatment, which put me out of commission for another week. So I was off of work for three full weeks, thus the lack of updates. I returned to work and my first week back exhausted me, which is why nothing went up that weekend, and last Sunday saw the update of another much neglected story.
I'm doing much better now, although I'm not one hundred percent or even anything close to it. But I'm well enough for updates, so that's the important part. I know this chapter has been LONG overdue, so I apologize.
Again, I can't thank everyone enough for their overwhelmingly positive reviews. I was truly touched and it makes me feel all the worse for the heinous delay in getting this posted. Hopefully the length will make up for it?
Also, due to the support and encouragement I've received from everyone, I've decided to go through with a third chapter that will be a Zero x Kaname, since I'm all about fairness of partnerships, especially in guys with their personality types. I'm sure that will make quite a few of you out there happy, ne?
I can't guarantee when it will go up since I haven't started on it, but hopefully there won't be another ridiculous delay like this one.
Although I'm not certain what fic will go up on Sunday, July 26th, I shall do my best to have something posted. However, that day is my mother's birthday so if it is a day or two late, that would be why. Hopefully it won't come to that, though!
Thank you again, for I am truly humbled by your kind praise! See you in the next chapter, hopefully.