DISCLAIMER: I do not own Vampire Knight

Okay, I do beleive you have every right to punch me in the face. My updates are slow, I have totally ignored my other story, and not to mention school is hastily apporaching. Is that an excuse? More like a death sentence...

I'm not to happy with the ending, couldn't really think of anything at the moment...not as dramatic i suppose.

Nether-the-less, let's just be happy i got it done, hm?


CHAPTER 7: Ruefully Burning Hate

Everything felt stiff. My entire body didn't want to move, and even the slightest movement sent a wave of exhaustion upon me, almost like an immoveable boulder that just keeps repeating 'shut up and go back to sleep, pansy'. Under the circumstances, I might have, what with the sore and chilled body. My energy reserves were still dangerously low, and probably won't be replenishing after a while. If there's one thing I learned, it's that when you're younger, smaller, and weaker- so is your energy.

Which means it's probably going to take weeks to recover from my little mishap. It brought bitter relief that it actually was refilling and not just sitting at rock bottom. But, strangely, I felt warmth around me…yet not inside me. And then I became increasingly aware of someone…speaking? They were whispering soothing words, urging me to wake up but the voice held no hope for such a thing, as if knowing my awakening would not happen for a long time to come.

I faded out again, feeling my head reeling with a splitting headache that I didn't want to endure. When I reawaked, I was surprised to find myself no longer internally freezing. My energy reserves were very much low, but at least no longer in danger of killing or knocking me out. My muscles weren't as still; much to my delight, but still the same reaction came when I tried to move as before. And apparently, I must have twitched when I moved, because someone gasped beside me.

"Shizumi…?" The voice sounded familiar, and I at first assumed it was Akemi. There was shuffling and hushed whispering before I grew curious. It was obvious I was snug into a bed, lying facing the ceiling, but I willed my eyes to open.

Blinding light filled my gaze, making me squint somewhat before my eyes accustomed to the change…to meet shining green eyes. I was about to draw a breath of relief when I froze in absolute shock. This wasn't Akemi…no…she's a girl….

A smile crept upon his face from where he sat beside the bed; his blonde hair was neatly parted and brushed, making his handsome features stand out clearly. But his eyes…and that's not what scared me the most. It was what he said next that made my heart stop.

"Hello. I' am Takuma Ichijo. I'm glad your awake, Shizumi Hio."

Lord help me.

Shock must have been evident on my face, because he quickly stood, worry etched all over his features. I realized with another start that this was mini Takuma as in childhood version! We're still in the beginning of the anime! So…I'm not behind! Then another thought struck me as Takuma asked if I was alright. Where was Akemi? Heck, where am 'I?

"Miss, you've gotten quite pale, are you alright?" Poor Takuma repeated, but exasperation was nowhere in his voice, nothing but pure innocence and worry. I opened my mouth a bit to speak, but no words came out. My throat burned slightly, stopping my attempts at speaking. He waited patiently for my answer, and then suddenly realized I couldn't speak.

"Oh, here, have some water." He reached over to an end table and picked up a glass of 'water' which I all too soon realized was red, indicating either a blood tablet or…no, I doubt the Ichijo family killed humans like that. Gratefully taking the drink as he helped me somewhat lean forward as to not spill, the burning in my throat subsided for me to give a weak and shy smile.

"S-sorry." And I stuttered. Social contact isn't one of my strengths apparently. Though, Takuma seemed more surprised I was apologizing, "Er, it's no problem I was-…" He trailed off, scratching the back of his heads before smiling brightly…or sheepishly. Either one is okay for him, I guess.

Leaning back against the fluffy pillow, I gazed around the surprisingly well furnished room. The walls were a plain cream, but were covered with beautiful paintings that oddly resembled ones me and Akemi did in our Art-a-thons. The bed was king size, no shock there, with red covers and black over hang. Too say it was comfortable was an understatement.

There was a desk on the other side of the room, whilst two double doors led into the room from the wall. A dresser here, a wardrobe there, some strange building tools and canvas's-

Oh. Now I know where I 'am. The Ichijo family house, mansion, inside Akemi's room. It seemed our rolls are once again reversed.

Takuma hummed lightly and looked ready to speak up when one of the doors opened…and to my joy revealed Akemi. She didn't look too happy, in fact maybe a bit flustered. But that frown turned upside down when she saw me staring back at her, "Shi-hime!" I cringed as she raced over to the bed, holding a tray of food and wearing…a nightgown? Yes, Akemi Ichijo was wearing a yellow nightgown. Perhaps I had a strange face, because she sent me a withering look.

"I'm glad your awake…no comment, please." She said icily. I smiled faintly, glad to hear her sarcasm and defiant voice again. Takuma looked a little baffled by this interaction, but it looked like Akemi was pointedly ignoring him. "I was worried you'd never wake up." She sat down in another chair next to Takuma, placing the food tray on the bed. The scent of food whiffed past me, and all previous exhaustion faded and I groggily sat forward. A cat like grin spread on Akemi's face, "Ho ho, Shi wants some waffles, hmm?"

I blushed a little as I realized, yes, the food was indeed waffles. It was one of my favorite foods in my past life, and apparently it stuck even in this life. They certainly were very good food. "…and I made them just the way you like them, peanut butter and syrup with warm milk for you." Her grin got wider as she added, "Butter and syrup for us."

I gave her the best 'I love you, thank you, I owe you one' look I could muster. My mind was on high speed and I was still probably a bit gob smacked about waking up here of all places. At least food will calm me down a bit…though it won't do anything for my weak muscles and sore body.

"What…happened…?" I asked quietly, suddenly aware of how low my voice was with Akemi's loud one speaking before. She shot me a quizzical look, I've never acted shy around her of course, and I've even insulted her. She must have realized Takuma was still there and answered normally-

"You passed out. But it was amazing! One moment we were circled by wolves, the next the big bad one charges, you screamed but… then WHAM! The tree's come to LIFE and swing their branches down and BAM! Snatch those wolves up, squeezing them! But then you got really sick looking…and fell…I don't think I was much better…" She smiled sheepishly; oddly looking like Takuma was before. I nodded for her to continue while her brother was entranced by the story, complete with arm gestures.

"You had mentioned visiting home before, and I knew it wasn't that close…I wanted to avoid- hey don't give me that look. I was chicken, okay? Anyways I carried you here and…fainted." She muttered the last part, looking an away slightly…embarrassed? I smiled lightly. Akemi has never been known for admitting weakness, so saying she fainted…

"Doesn't help your fat." Akemi grumbled, causing the blonde next to her to reel back in shock, mouth agape. I chuckled at her antics; she just rolled her eyes and started slowly eating the waffles. I joined in, happy to have something in my stomach. Now thinking about it, I was surprised I had managed to do something like that. Though, I felt bad about the wolves…no matter how terrifying it was.

"How did you do that? I've never seen Shi-sama do that before." We pointedly ignored Takuma at this point who looked bewildered, confused, and still had yet to collect his jaw from the floor. I nibbled on my waffle, gazing down at my food as speaking softly, "Instinct, I suppose…adrenaline rush helped…" That was all I could come up with, that and the situation called for it.

Akemi scoffed, "I'm a little upset you didn't give me any action." I was about to give witty retort but stopped. That look in her eyes clearly explained everything- she regrets not doing anything. She must feel stupid for just standing there while the whole ordeal took place. No doubt guilty especially when I passed out…

That thought made me over come with guilt. What did she think when I was unconscious? Did she make a split second decision based only on my well-being and health? Did she come back just because she didn't want to lose me? Though flattered, I knew she must loath this place, if her ignorance of her older brothers presence is anything to go off of.

"How's the fever?" she raised an eyebrow before rolling her eyes, "Fine, fine…Quit asking, okay? It's over with; you've been out of it for two weeks now and-…" All other words stopped as my face fell. Two weeks? That long I've been unconscious? I shuddered slightly, now vaguely aware of bags under Akemi's sparkling green eyes. Staying up late, worrying if I'll be in a coma my whole life…

"…I'm more worried about you. Speaking of which, how are you doing?" She pulled me out of my depressing thoughts and I gave a small smile, "Fine, a little sore but I'll recover." She didn't seem satisfied, probably knowing that being out for two weeks doesn't make you feel just fine.

"What's been happening?" I asked, trying to get away from my health. Takuma shifted uncomfortably, probably feeling like a third wheel. I wonder why he's here anyway…? Akemi gave an irritable groan before leaning back in her chair. "My parents threw a hissy fit, I've been away for years and they go ballistic…ugh…it was annoying…" I smiled, noticing how halfhearted the speech was. She may make it sound like she's angry, but that look of happiness in her eyes showed how much she missed this place.

And she was even happier they missed her. "Then they go even crazier when they see I have Shizumi Hio with me." She shakes her head and at my startled look she waves her hands, "Ah Ah, calm down, don't have a panic attack Shi, that's the last thing we need." I held my breath as she continued, silently questioning where the Hime went. Another long suffering sigh escaped Akemi, as if she's already spent hours going over this topic.

"I've got mom, dad, and him-"She made a gesture to Takuma who positively glowed at the recognition- "sworn to secrecy. Grandfather won't know either, I've made sure of that." That grim smirk she had nearly made me shiver. Nearly. I sighed in some relief as I realized very warmly that I was still unknown. No one knew of my existence still, thank goodness. Though I have to admit Akemi's grandfather could become a problem in the future if he's manipulative of his family.

But for now… "Takuma…" He looked a little startled that I had addressed him while Akemi frowned, "I…er…hope you can keep my secret safe." He blinked before smiling that infamous sparkle smile, "It's no burden, so don't worry. We're just glad Akemi is back." Here Akemi coughed and glared, "I'm not back. Once Shi recovers we're heading out and-…"

"That won't be for a month." Her look of surprise was amusing, but I needed to get this point, "I have energy exhaustion…it…won't replenish…for a while…" I trailed off, thinking of ways to explain to her my other reason. She seemed to pick up on that, because she gave me a stern look, "Hey what's-…"

And that was when Mrs. And Mr. Ichijo walked into the room. At first I had to stop my jaw from hitting the floor and never returning to its proper place. Why? They were flat out gorgeous. I was also stunned just how similar the two looked to their children. The father, of course, had piercing green eyes with neat blonde hair. He was tall, fairly thin, but had the signature Ichijo family smile.

The mother made me think of Akemi instantly. Though her smile wasn't quite as audible as her husbands, it was a kind and gentle motherly smile. Her hair was not as dark as Akemi's but still the same shade, her eyes a warm chocolate brown. In that moment, when they stepped forward, I saw Akemi and Takuma as adults, smiling at me.

I had to blink to clear the image and suddenly was extremely uncomfortable. These are two adults, no matter have joyful and relaxed they look, that I have never met before. Strangers…beware…no contact…

"I see you're awake, you gave us quite the scare." The mother spoke, tilting her head a bit and clasping her hands. Akemi was pointedly staring at the covers, struggling to stay focused on anything but them. I casted her a slightly concerned glance before shyly speaking to the couple, "I'm sorry to be a burden, with my secrets…" I trailed off, a habit I had. It's usually because I wasn't such a good speaker and feared looking –or sounding- like an idiot.

The husband shook his head, smiling pleasantly, "No, no, it's no trouble at all. We were just a bit surprised…but very relieved Akemi is safe." At this Akemi turned around, facing her parents. The air quickly became tense with the glare she gave them, "I'm not staying."

I briefly noticed Takuma lowering his head at the corner of my vision, but decided not to interfere. It was family business, personal issues…that…I just realized are connected to me. I mentally scolded myself, knowing Akemi will only leave if it's with me. And I cannot stay here, that much is certain. A surprise visit from Takuma's grandfather will surely be my end. So, I have to reluctantly sneak away…which will no doubt hurt Akemi in the process…but she can't come with me…

"Akemi." I interrupted her before more harsh words could come out of her mouth, already noting the couple's smiles were faltering somewhat. She snapped her mouth shut and glanced at me, considering. I mouthed 'calm' and turned to the Ichijo family before it got too awkward.

"Thank you for caring for me, my name is Shizumi Hio, but I guess you already know that…" I smiled, fidgeting a little. At least they're a hundred watt smiles returned full throttle. The mother stepped forward, and for some reason I felt a pang of sadness. Why…?

"Like Aruko said beforehand, you are most welcome in our house Hio-sama." I visibly flinched at the name, earning some confused looks. Akemi, I noticed, merely put her hand on her forehead and closed her eyes in exasperation. Aruko, the father, stepped forward and was about to speak but I put my hand up, "I'm sorry…but could you not address me as such?" I sent them a pleading glance, but was mildly amused at the baffled looks I gained.

"Er…as you wish." The mother spoke, her smile returning, "It's not bother for you to rest here, you were in quite the condition…my, if Takuma hadn't been outside at the time…" Takuma took this moment to speak for this first time in this conversation, "Mother, when is grandfather returning?" Ah, that was a question that caught my interest.

"He is busy with the council lately…with you know what…" Aruko spoke softly, his gaze slightly downcast. Takuma's gaze lowered as well as the mother stepped forward in the two's sudden depressed state. "Hio-san, you'll be staying in 'Kemi's room, if that's alright?" I shook my head quickly, "No, not all, thank you! I mean..." I blushed slightly when I realized I had spoken to loud and quickly, but they at least caught it.

"We'll be nearby if you need us, just call." Aruko announced, ushering his wife out of the room, waving to us before closing it. A small silence engulfed the room as I silently exhaled. That…could have gone a lot worse…

"Takuma, go away." I cringed and gazed at the siblings sitting in front of me, Akemi now drilling her older brother with glares as he sat awkwardly. He obviously didn't feel comfortable, but at the same time looked reluctant to leave…and Takuma leaving…leaving…going away…

Stupid fan-girl thoughts…

"He can stay." I felt a little guilty, seeing a flash of betrayal in Akemi's eyes when she met mine. Quickly shrugging it off, I turned to the now beaming blonde, "I'm actually quite curious on your…situation…" I tailed off, hoping they understood. By the looks I received, they did not.

"I wish to hear the story from a different point of view." I rephrased even quieter then the last, but they heard. Takuma spoke gently, and I couldn't help but inwardly gawk at his handsome features and…gorgeous. "Ah, well it isn't really the best of subjects, but if you wish to know…"

"You don't have to treat me like I'm a queen; I'm no different than you." I spoke, trying to sound confident but failing. Sometimes, I wish I could cut out my tongue and replace it with one of more sociable intellect. Takuma blinked, then again, before his signature smile appeared, "You are…different. Not at all like the others." I knew what he referred to…

Purebloods didn't do this often. We didn't show emotion, we talked like robots, and usually were very intimidating. I'm a shy and jumpy little eight year old child, smiling and chuckling here and there, and definitely not threatening with my small stature. I didn't take offense, in fact I found the way purebloods react pretty ridiculous. Plus, I'm not exactly fully pureblood…yet.

"She's got a heart, you know." Akemi grumbled and Takuma awkwardly scratched the back of his head, "Yes, I know…" I glanced at the two, their eyes drilling into each other as if a unspoken conversation was going between them. Then, Akemi broke away. "I'll be right back, and you better be gone." She muttered the last part, but Takuma heard it loud and clear.

Once she left the room, carrying the now empty tray of food, I bit my lip. The look on Takuma's face was…pained. Almost like he was blaming himself for his sister running away. Deciding to be out of character for a moment, I put my hand on his shoulder, snapping him out of his thoughts and he turned to me with a startled expression. A gave a soft smile to him.

"It's okay, she'll come around…don't tell her I told you this, but she's missed you dearly. She's just too stubborn to admit it." He relaxed and smiled, taking my hand off his shoulder and I put it back at my side. The contact bugged me a bit, but I shouldered it away. I continued to speak even as he stood, though my voice was quiet it could clearly be heard in the big room, "Takuma…?"

He turned to me, "Yes, Shizumi?" I was a bit thrown off he'd use my first name so quickly but decided not to dwell on it, "Why exactly did Akemi leave to begin with…?" His face become crest fallen, his eyes suddenly interested with the floor. I waited patiently, regretting asking him.

"It's…her way. She's 'not a caged bird'." He was smiling faintly, as if recalling a memory. I raised an eyebrow but didn't comment as he bowed and left. All Akemi had explained was that her family were letting her grandfather walk all over them…then again he is the head of the vampire council…but still. Then another thought entered my head, about the earlier conversation.

What did they mean by 'busy with you know what'? It could mean a thousand things, from simple little vampire squabbles to…the Kiryu deaths. I gulped and lay back on the bed, staring at the black overhang. Did mother do it…? Did she really kill them…?

Sighing in exhaustion and suddenly feeling extremely tired, mostly due to the irritable soreness returning to my body, I rolled over and shut my eyes for some sleep…

. . .

I quickly shot up and gasped, eyes wide and trembling, realization setting in like a cold front. We were eight years old...Shizuka made her move at this time…the Kurans had already been massacred…that only leaves the Kiryu's to be murdered…so that means. I instantly felt like crawling into a hole.

I'm…a wanted criminal's…daughter…

Why do I have a feeling I won't be unknown for much longer?


The next chapter will be happier, this is just horribly overdramatic. Unfortunatly, the happiness won't last long and so on, poor Shizumi will be stuck in a whirlwind of a plot...hehe...I'm an evil author, there hasn't been a story yet where the main character hasn't been injured in some way.

Shizumi: O_O huh?

...like i said, happiness. I'm just happy Takuma is here. Who doesn't love Takuma? Apparently Akemi...

Reviews please, they give me confidence. Confidence is keep, ne?...did i say that right?